Ceer has awarded a contract to Modern Building Leaders (MBL) to begin construction of its electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing complex in King Abdullah Economic City, Saudi Arabia. 

The contract, worth SR5bn ($1.33bn), entails the construction of a facility spanning more than one million square metres, with a 530,000m² area under its roof. 

It will have dedicated zones for each stage of vehicle production, including a body shop, a paint shop, a press shop, and a general assembly section.  

The complex will also feature areas for logistics, warehouses, and waste management, as well as offices, a water treatment system, and a vehicle test track. 

Ceer CEO Jim DeLuca said: “We are delighted to witness the realisation of our vision to ignite Saudi Arabia’s mobility industry, beginning with the construction of the Ceer Electric Vehicle Manufacturing Complex.  

“This complex will be a benchmark for industrial excellence within the region and globally. It will feature the best technologies, equipment, and people, supported by partnerships with global industry leaders such as Dürr, Schuler, Siemens, ABB, and many more.” 

Ceer, a joint venture (JV) between Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) and Foxconn, aims to bolster the country's EV sector in line with its Vision 2030 goals for economic diversification, carbon emission reduction, and sustainable development.  

The JV says it is dedicated to designing, manufacturing, and supplying technologically advanced electric sedans and sports utility vehicles, utilising systems from Foxconn and BMW. 

It is also said to be the country’s first EV brand and original equipment manufacturer. By 2034, Ceer is expected to contribute $8bn to Saudi Arabia’s gross domestic product (GDP). 

Last November, the JV revealed its plans to engage in new sourcing agreements with third-party builders, contractors, and Siemens.