Driving the Future of Electric Mobility in America’s Battery Belt

BMW Celebrates 30 Years in Spartanburg, SC

Last month, BMW celebrated the 30^th anniversary of its plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, a momentous occasion that paved the way for other international automotive OEMs to build passenger and commercial vehicles in America.

The Automotive Industry in South Carolina

In 2024, South Carolina is home to Germany’s Big Three — BMW, Mercedes Benz Vans, Volkswagen Group (Scout) — and Volvo Cars.

Volvo continues to both contribute to and leverage the thriving automotive community through its Volvo Cars and Polestars brands.  Volvo’s EX90, which will roll off the assembly line from its Ridgeville plant in South Carolina, will contribute to its goal of electrifying its fleet by 2040.

South Carolina now assembles over 500.000 vehicles per year and has solidified its position as a leader of electric mobility as these very plants position themselves to offer an array of powertrains.

SC Leadeship Takes Charge

South Carolina’s vision and leadership early on has paid off, and today, these OEMS are joined by 500+ automotive-related companies that continue to revolutionize this everchanging industry.

14^th Annual SC Automotive Summit

This leadership is exemplified by the annual South Carolina Automotive Summit which convenes the automotive industry from the Greater Southeast and beyond.  Did you know that 33 passenger OEMs can be reached from South Carolina within a day?

South Carolina Asset Network

South Carolina has responded to and prepared for electric mobility.   Today, the EV ecosystem rests on three core areas:  battery production, technology and research, and recycling.  Passenger vehicles, buses, vans, postal delivery vehicles, and even eVTOLS strongly rely on a thriving ecosystem and South Carolina’s favorable location right in the heart of America’s Battery Belt.

Success Built through Synergies – BMW and Redwood Recycling Collaboration

In 2024, South Carolina was designated a Tech Hub through its SC Nexus initiatives, which makes it a national focal point for technological innovation, particularly in the automotive and EV sectors.  The state’s Tech Hub status opens the door to federal funding and public-private partnerships to drive innovation in electrification and battery technologies.

Charging Forward with SC Nexus

South Carolina’s preeminent position in electric mobility is made possible and further reinforced by a growing community of companies from around the world that have placed their trust in the strength and promise of the Palmetto State.  A strong and qualified workforce coupled by efficient logistics and a pro-business environment continues to guarantee and reinforce its position as a preeminent player in electric mobility.

To learn more about how South Carolina can support your business from launch to legacy, contact our Europe Office.