Saudi Arabia's First Car Factory Trains EV Workforce

A historic first is taking shape in Saudi Arabia, where the country's inaugural vehicle manufacturing plant is combining cutting-edge automation technology with homegrown talent to build the next generation of electric cars.

Rockwell Automation has partnered with Lucid, the luxury electric vehicle maker, to equip the new manufacturing facility in King Abdullah Economic City with enterprise software that manages every stage of car production. The FactoryTalk manufacturing execution system will provide real-time control across general assembly, paint, stamping, body work, and powertrain operations.

But the technology is only half the story. Rockwell's local team in Saudi Arabia is delivering hands-on and virtual training programs to develop a skilled Saudi workforce capable of building advanced EVs from the ground up.

"By equipping local Saudi talent with cutting-edge EV manufacturing expertise through tailored training, this partnership will cultivate a skilled workforce that will drive sustainable industrial growth," said Ahmad Haydar, Rockwell Automation's country leader for Saudi Arabia.

The facility represents a milestone for the Kingdom, which has never manufactured vehicles before. The plant will produce Lucid's future midsize electric vehicles, bringing automotive manufacturing expertise to a region traditionally known for oil production.

The Ripple Effect

This partnership demonstrates how industrial transformation can create opportunity beyond the factory floor. Training local workers in advanced manufacturing skills builds a foundation for long-term economic diversification aligned with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative.

The collaboration positions Saudi Arabia to participate in the global shift toward electric vehicles while creating high-skilled jobs for its citizens. As these newly trained workers gain expertise in EV production, they're building capabilities that could attract additional automotive and tech investments to the region.

The project shows how international partnerships can accelerate development when they prioritize local workforce training alongside technology transfer. Saudi workers aren't just operating imported systems but gaining deep expertise in managing complex manufacturing operations.

As the first vehicles roll off the line at KAEC, they'll represent more than just transportation. They're proof that building new industries starts with investing in the people who will run them.