Based in the city of Born, the Netherlands, VDL Nedcar will manufacture the Lifestyle Vehicle for the US & EU markets while Canoo builds its US-based mega microfactory. By parallel pathing contract and owned manufacturing, Canoo wants to meet its commitment to start production and deliver vehicles in Q4, 2022.
“We conducted an exhaustive search, invested significant amounts of time and resources that span the globe, in our search for our Phase 1 contract manufacturer. VDL Nedcar is the right partner,” said Tony Aquila, Investor, Chairman, and CEO of Canoo, Inc. “They are the top trusted European manufacturer building high-quality products for leading OEMs, and they significantly outcompeted the other contenders. VDL is also independently owned by the Van der Leegte family of entrepreneurs – which aligns with our commitment to support businesses that form the backbone of communities.” This strategic partnership will enable Canoo to deliver vehicles to market while building its Phase 2 factory in Oklahoma. Aquila: “It also strongly positions us for geographic expansion in Europe. Our investment will help us scale quickly and fulfill our mission to bring affordable, purpose-built EVs to Everyone.”
Canoo and VDL have been working together on vehicle manufacturability and production planning to lay the groundwork for Canoo’s U.S. manufacturing operations, which will be based in Oklahoma. The Nedcar facility is slated to build up to 1,000 units for both the US and European markets in 2022 with a target of 15,000 units in 2023.
“Canoo’s bold approach to designing and building electric vehicles makes them an ideal partner as we work together to shape the future of mobility,” said John van Soerland, CEO of VDL Nedcar. “This partnership advances our strategic vision to provide a contract manufacturing solution and expand our expertise in the EV arena.”
On track
Canoo says it is on track for the start of production. The company expects to launch its Lifestyle Vehicle at the end of 2022, followed by the Multi-Purpose Delivery Vehicle and Pickup Truck. Temporary accommodation may be provided at the factory in Born because a permit for new construction at VDL Nedcar’s site has not yet been obtained. The new production activities for Canoo will not affect VDL Nedcar’s current production. Production of the MINI models and the BMW X1 for BMW Group will end in 2023.
VDL Nedcar’s aim is to serve multiple customers simultaneously. It is currently in talks with a number of interested parties on producing cars in Born. Its ambition is to build cars for both start-ups and established brands, as well as the local assembly of battery packs.
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