Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, Inc. and AM General LLC have officially announced a significant partnership that will see the production of the Mercedes-Benz R-Class luxury vehicle移至 AM General’s state-of-the-art Commercial Assembly Plant in Mishawaka, Indiana. This strategic move, driven by the escalating demand for Mercedes-Benz’s Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) and the necessity for expanded production capabilities within the United States, marks a pivotal shift for R-Class manufacturing from its current location in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
This multi-year agreement establishes AM General as Mercedes-Benz’s exclusive contract manufacturing partner in the U.S., a testament to AM General’s proven expertise and advanced manufacturing facilities. Production of the Mercedes-Benz R-Class in Mishawaka is slated to commence this summer, with AM General initiating a hiring and training surge to onboard hundreds of new employees in preparation for this substantial undertaking.
“AM General is honored to be chosen by Mercedes-Benz to manufacture this prestigious vehicle at our world-class commercial vehicle facility in Mishawaka. We are enthusiastic about forging a long-lasting relationship with Mercedes-Benz and broadening our service portfolio within the U.S. and the global automotive sector,” stated Charlie Hall, President and CEO of AM General. His statement underscores the strategic importance of this collaboration for both companies.
AM General’s Commercial Assembly Plant in Mishawaka is a comprehensive manufacturing and support hub, equipped with cutting-edge robotic welding, painting, and assembly technologies. Coupled with a lean manufacturing philosophy and a highly skilled workforce, the plant is well-positioned to meet the stringent demands of Mercedes-Benz and its discerning customer base.
Hall further emphasized the broader implications of this partnership for the region, noting, “This agreement further exemplifies AM General’s unwavering and increasing dedication to the communities of Mishawaka and South Bend, the State of Indiana, and our exceptionally talented and dedicated employees.” The influx of manufacturing operations promises to bring significant economic benefits and job opportunities to the local area.
AM General’s robust experience in the rapidly evolving automotive landscape positions them as a premier Contract Assembler and Original Equipment Manufacturer. Their portfolio includes previous successful contract assembly projects for General Motors and other leading Original Equipment Manufacturers. Furthermore, through its subsidiary Mobility Ventures LLC, AM General is pioneering inclusive transportation with the MV-1, the world’s first purpose-built, universally accessible vehicle, aimed at revolutionizing transportation options for families and commercial fleets alike.
About AM General
AM General is a global leader in the design, engineering, manufacturing, and support of specialized vehicles for both military and commercial applications. With over five decades of experience, AM General consistently adapts to the dynamic needs of the defense and automotive industries. The company’s operations are anchored by major facilities in Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio, complemented by a robust supplier network spanning 43 states. For more in-depth information about AM General, please visit www.amgeneral.com.
Media Contacts:
Deborah Reyes
[email protected]
Mercedes-Benz Media Contacts:
Matthias Krust, +49 (0) 711 17-41928; email: matthias.krust @daimler.com
Sofia Stauber, +49 (0) 711 17-40598; email: [email protected]
