New Battery Manufacturing Plant Explored For Auto Mechanic School Students
Since Tesla took the automotive industry by storm in 2008 with the release of their electric Roadster, other automotive manufacturers have been rushing to catch up with the growing demand for hybrid and electric vehicles. The result has been a boom in the electric vehicle industry, one which hasn’t yet reached its peak. Recently, one such development in Ontario brought good news for the advancement of the Canadian electric vehicle sector and the economy: a brand new battery plant set for construction in Windsor, Ontario. This massive plant will be about the size of 112 NHL hockey arenas and boast an immense production capacity, creating thousands of new jobs.
If you’re an aspiring auto mechanic, keeping up with new developments concerning the electrification of modern vehicles will help you to identify and explore the many opportunities waiting for you in this burgeoning industry. Keep reading to learn more about this exciting event and how it could affect the course of your automotive career.
Which Companies Are Involved?
Stellantis is a multinational automotive manufacturing company headquartered in the Netherlands. It was formed in 2021 as a result of a merger between Fiat Chrysler, an Italian-American conglomerate and Groupe PSA from France. Stellantis, which now makes Chrysler and Jeep vehicles, will partner with LG to invest $4.1 billion into a massive new battery manufacturing plant in Windsor, Ontario. Locals, particularly those trained in auto mechanic school and other automotive occupations, will likely benefit from the construction of this impressive new facility.
What’s the Plan?
Stellantis aims to produce 50% of battery-electric sales in North America by the end of the decade as part of its aggressive electrification plan. They plan to have introduced 25 new electric vehicles to the US by 2030. To accommodate these objectives, Stellantis has committed to opening at least two battery plants in North America. The plant set for construction in Windsor will stand out as one of the largest investments in Canada’s automotive industry throughout history. In addition to their significant investment, Stellantis and LG will be receiving significant financial incentives from the government. The plant will be very large at 4.5 million square feet and directly create an estimated 2,500 jobs. Construction is scheduled to begin this year, with the first production occurring in 2024.
How Will This New Development Affect Auto Mechanic School Graduates?
In addition to the 2,500 jobs that this new battery plant will create, it’s predicted to generate even more opportunities for Canadians in the automotive industry, supplying batteries for newly manufactured EVs. Thus, the need for those trained through a specialized hybrid and electric vehicle mechanic program will likely grow due to the increase in electric vehicle owners in need of repairs and maintenance.
If you’re wondering where you can get the training you need to take advantage of this exciting opportunity in the Canadian EV sector, a program at ATC Surrey could be perfect for you. Our Hybrid Technology Training will teach you everything you need to know about servicing battery-powered vehicles, safety concerns, electric energy sources and more through hands-on, in-shop classes delivered by our experienced instructors.
Ready to advance your career with our hybrid and electric mechanic course?
Contact ATC Surrey today for more information!
