Lear, a manufacturer of automotive seating and electronic systems, plans to manufacture PACE battery disconnect units at its facility in Independence Township, Michigan, along with other vehicle electrification subsystems for batteries to be supplied to EV makers.

It also plans to expand its plant in Traverse City to produce EV battery pack components, and to upgrade its Sterling Heights facility for increased production of plastics needed for the new components.

According to Lear, the components control power transfer from a vehicle’s battery to its electrical systems, allowing EVs to charge faster and drive farther and delivering the higher-performance requirements of SUVs and light-duty trucks.

Lear CEO Ray Scott said, “The plant is slated to start production in early 2024. As a Michigan-headquartered company, it’s important to make this investment in our backyard as we continue to grow our portfolio of products for electric vehicles.”

Source: Michigan Economic Development Corporation