Mullen Automotive has submitted a strategic proposal to the U.S. Department of Energy aimed at bolstering domestic battery production capabilities across two key manufacturing facilities. The company has already invested $12 million, with plans to invest an additional $43 million, and is seeking $55 million in matching funds through a program supported by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This funding request represents a significant commitment to expanding U.S. battery manufacturing infrastructure at a time when domestic production capacity is critical for the electric vehicle industry's growth and energy independence.
The company's manufacturing strategy focuses on two primary locations: Mishawaka, Indiana, and Fullerton, California. The Mishawaka facility, a former GM Hummer plant, will be transformed to support high-volume battery production, with a planned annual capacity of 108,000 battery systems. Meanwhile, the Fullerton facility will concentrate on research, development, and prototype production. This dual-facility approach allows Mullen to simultaneously scale production while advancing battery technology through dedicated R&D efforts. The strategic importance of these locations lies in their potential to create manufacturing jobs and establish regional hubs for battery innovation.
Mullen's approach aligns with broader national objectives to expand clean energy production and domestic manufacturing capabilities. By investing in advanced battery infrastructure, the company positions itself as a potential leader in the electric vehicle battery sector. The company anticipates delivering its first production units by mid-2025, with additional production lines scheduled to launch in subsequent years. This timeline demonstrates Mullen's commitment to scaling its manufacturing capabilities and contributing to the growing electric vehicle market. The proposed expansion comes as the Biden administration has prioritized domestic battery production through initiatives like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which includes substantial funding for electric vehicle infrastructure and supply chain development.
Mullen has already made significant strides in the electric vehicle industry, with commercial vehicle production beginning in Tunica, Mississippi, in August 2023. The company has secured federal EV tax credit approvals and received certifications from the California Air Resource Board for its Mullen ONE cargo van and Mullen THREE truck models. These achievements provide a foundation for the company's battery manufacturing expansion, as demonstrated by their existing commercial vehicle operations. The strategic investments and DOE proposal represent a critical step in Mullen's expansion of domestic battery manufacturing, potentially supporting the United States' transition to more sustainable transportation technologies. Successful implementation could reduce reliance on foreign battery suppliers while creating skilled manufacturing jobs in key regions.
The implications of this announcement extend beyond Mullen's corporate growth to broader economic and environmental considerations. Domestic battery production capacity is essential for meeting anticipated electric vehicle demand while securing supply chains against global disruptions. As outlined in the Department of Energy's clean energy initiatives, expanding U.S. battery manufacturing supports national security objectives by reducing dependence on foreign components. Mullen's proposal, if funded, would contribute to building a more resilient domestic supply chain for electric vehicles while advancing the company's position in the competitive EV market. The planned investments in Indiana and California facilities represent tangible steps toward these national priorities through private-public partnership.
