Siemens opens North Carolina plant for Amtrak Airo cars

Siemens Mobility North Carolina factory is on pace to deliver its first new passenger cars this summer. Amtrak Airo equipment is set to be the first built at the new Lexington plant.

Siemens Mobility North Carolina factory begins production

Siemens Mobility has officially opened its new plant in Lexington. Government representatives and rail-industry officials joined the ribbon-cutting ceremony. According to Siemens Mobility, the $220 million facility spans 10 buildings across 200 acres. Siemens said 385 workers and supervisors have either been hired locally or transferred from its Sacramento, Calif., plant. They currently work 10-hour shifts four days a week. A second shift is scheduled to begin Monday, April 6, ahead of the first passenger cars due this summer.

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Tobias Bauer, CEO of Siemens Mobility North America, said in a press release: “Our $220 million investment in Lexington reflects our long-term commitment to American manufacturing and to the communities that help power our industry. By creating more than 500 skilled jobs and expanding our U.S. production and service footprint, we are bringing advanced rail manufacturing closer to our East Coast customers while strengthening support for partners across the country. With a truly end-to-end rail portfolio built in America, we are well positioned to help shape the next chapter of American rail.”

Amtrak Airo equipment, jobs and timeline

Federal Railroad Administration head David Fink and Amtrak President Roger Harris were among those attending the event. As Trains reported, Amtrak’s Airo equipment will be the first built at the Lexington facility. In addition, 25 coaches are now in various stages of production.

Fink said, “Siemens’ new North Carolina plant showcases America’s investment in building a world-class rail system that will be a critical piece of the American economy. Siemens’ plant will fuel economic growth, create high-quality jobs, and deliver reliable transit for American families.” Harris added, “This facility reflects the growing momentum behind passenger rail in America and our shared commitment to building an even more reliable network.”

The plant is backed in part by a state Job Development Grant. According to the North Carolina governor’s office, it is expected to contribute $1.6 billion to North Carolina’s economy over a 12-year period. Gov. Josh Stein said that investment “is a win for the entire state of North Carolina, and it strengthens our leadership in shaping the future of passenger rail in America.” Siemens first announced the new facility in March 2023. Ground was broken that August.

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