John Deere to construct battery plant in North Carolina

Deere & Company unveiled plans for a new 115,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Kernersville, North Carolina, U.S.A. This facility will bolster the production of products from Kreisel Electric, a firm specialising in cutting-edge battery technology for e-mobility and stationary systems. John Deere acquired a majority stake in Kreisel in 2022. The upcoming facility is designed to support a production capacity of up to 2 gigawatt hours (GWh). Groundbreaking is slated for fall 2023, with production kicking off in 2025.

Jennifer Preston, global director of John Deere Electric Powertrain and Kreisel’s CEO, emphasised the importance of this venture. “Our collaboration with Kreisel aims to diversify our electrification solutions, catering to a broader spectrum of customer needs. This move aligns with our objective of showcasing feasible low- and near-zero-carbon power solutions by 2026,” she said.

For more than a century, John Deere has been a trusted name in delivering dependable power solutions. The new facility will focus on developing and producing Kreisel battery and CHIMERO charger technology, underscoring the company’s dedication to safety and excellence.

This North Carolina facility is a testament to John Deere’s commitment to sustainable energy, featuring a design devoid of fossil fuel consumption. It will incorporate eco-friendly features in its heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), energy recovery system, advanced lighting, and irrigation control.

Pierre Guyot, senior vice president of John Deere Power Systems and Kreisel’s chairman, highlighted the strategic importance of this investment. “As the electric solutions market burgeons, we’re positioning ourselves as global leaders in battery technology. Our focus is on fostering a comprehensive charging ecosystem and battery portfolio to support the long-term electrification shift across diverse applications,” he said.

Kernersville was chosen due to its longstanding relationship with John Deere, which began in 1988. The town offers a rich talent pool and excellent connectivity to vital infrastructure. The North Carolina Department of Commerce played a pivotal role in the site selection process. However, further development phases await additional regulatory approvals.

Mark Owens, president and CEO of Greater Winston-Salem, Inc., expressed enthusiasm about the new facility. He remarked, “This aligns with our vision of leading advanced manufacturing in the Southeast. We’re thrilled to welcome Kreisel Electric’s North American headquarters to Forsyth County.”