Mercedez-Benz to expand NS-served plant in Alabama

Mercedez-Benz U.S. International recently announced plans to expand its auto assembly plant in Vance, Alabama. 

To be completed by 2030, the $4 billion project will greatly boost sport utility vehicle (SUV) production at the plant, which is served by Norfolk Southern Railway. Built in 1995, the facility currently employs 5,800 people, according to a press release from the Alabama Department of Commerce.

Mercedez-Benz aims to manufacture more SUVs domestically to address significant U.S. auto tariffs. Currently, the automaker exports about 60% of the finished vehicles assembled at the Vance plant to markets worldwide.

Norfolk Southern is proud to serve the Mercedes-Benz plant and to support American manufacturing through a safe, reliable and sustainable rail network, said Alex Luc, NS’ group vice president of international intermodal and automotive, in an emailed statement. 

“Investments like this strengthen U.S. supply chains, create jobs and reinforce the Southeast’s role as a global automotive and export hub. We look forward to continuing our partnership as Mercedes-Benz grows its footprint in Alabama,” he said. 

A nearby CSX hub in Bessemer, Alabama, also helps support the movement of auto parts/components to Mercedez-Benz's Vance plant.