The Lone Star State now represents the very first U.S.-based manufacturing site for global electric vehicle charging solutions company, Wallbox. Headquartered in Barcelona, Wallbox announced the exciting expansion news earlier this week, citing Arlington’s central location, cross-country highway access, and proximity to some of Texas’ major cities. The Arlington facility is the fourth manufacturing site globally, with one currently in Europe and Chinese markets, and is projected to create 250 direct jobs in the region by 2030.
“This new factory will be an instrumental step in our expansion in the North American market, enabling us not only to meet the growing demand but also to accelerate the launch of new products and enter the business and public EV charging segments as we bring our production stateside,” said Enric Asunción, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Wallbox.
The new 130,000 square foot high-tech plant will see production beginning as early as June 2022. Wallbox confirmed a total of 290,000 units are projected annually in this facility by 2027 and will reach full capacity of 500,000 units by 2030.
“The unique aspects of the project were the innovation that is driving the company’s mission and growth, as well as the trending electric vehicle industry that is reshaping the future of the world,” shared Marcus Young, Economic Development Specialist at the City of Arlington.” Additionally, the focus on advanced technology and engineering complemented the city’s vision, assets and mission as a smart, innovative and technologically advanced city in the Metroplex.
“Project Quick Charge” was the dedicated code name for the company at the launch of the project by site locations veteran Eric Kleinsorge of Global Site Location Industries (GSLI). The company hosted a dedicated webinar back in June announcing the initial project specs and RFP requirements.
“GSLI first introduced the City to this opportunity and was able to keep us connected with the prospect throughout the process,” added Young. “They facilitated the entire RFI process to ensure our submission made it to the decision-makers for consideration. GSLI also coordinated the site visits to the facilities of interest and kept city staff informed until we were able to meet with the company representatives.
“The Wallbox team was great to work with,” added Eric Kleinsorge, Chairman and CEO of Global Site Location Industries (GSLI). “The project was very fast-tracked and took a tremendous amount of focused attention. The Wallbox and GSLI teams really stepped up together for a very successful location decision. We are excited to see their first US Manufacturing Plant off to such a great start.”
Plans for additional expansion in the U.S. over the next decade were also cited in the announcement, with plans to further support the North American market presently being pushed for the electrification of automobiles.
“Between the highly successful launch of our residential charger Pulsar Plus and our recently announced strategic alliance with SunPower to offer packaged EV charger and solar installations across the U.S. market, Wallbox has made great strides in establishing and growing its brand in the country this year,” said Douglas Alfaro, GM of North America at Wallbox.