Kokomo Gets Second Battery Plant Under Stellantis/Samsung Joint Venture

Amid the flurry of announcements that Kokomo will soon become home to North America's first electric vehicle battery manufacturing plant, another milestone is taking shape. The city has received approval from the Kokomo plan commission to allow the development of a second battery plant under the Stellantis NV/Samsung SDI joint venture called Star Plus Energy. The companies didn't disclose where the new facility would be located or its annual production capacity, though they did say the plant will be built in 2027 and will join a first plant under their Star Plus Energy joint venture that opened in 2022.

The companies will hire about 1,400 employees initially. Most will be Hoosiers, but some may come from South Korea. As such, local leaders are making sure they have the resources in place to welcome new residents and help them integrate into everyday life here. They're partnering with IU Bloomington to offer Korean language classes and working with the city of Kokomo to educate residents about Korea-specific customs, like how employees tend to socialize more at work than in their personal lives.

The company will also partner with a local community services agency to provide a program for adults in the city who need long-term care and services, such as help getting around at home or short-term assistance with chores. Those who qualify will get Medicaid health-care coverage and the help they need to remain at home, rather than in an institution.Star Plus Energy