Governor Josh Stein joined Siemens Mobility Inc. at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new passenger rail manufacturing center in Lexington on Apr. 3. The facility, first announced in 2023, is expected to create 506 jobs in Davidson County.
The opening of this facility marks a significant investment in North Carolina’s advanced manufacturing and clean technology sectors. Officials say the project will strengthen the state’s economy by nearly $1.6 billion over the next decade and help shape the future of passenger rail transportation.
“North Carolina is a hub for innovation and a leader in advanced manufacturing and the clean tech economy,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Siemens Mobility’s new facility will create more than 500 good-paying jobs in Davidson County and strengthen our state’s economy by nearly $1.6 billion over the next decade. This investment is a win for the entire State of North Carolina, and it strengthens our leadership in shaping the future of passenger rail in America.”
Lee Lilley, Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Commerce, said: “Siemens Mobility’s new facility in Davidson County reflects the kind of advanced manufacturing investment that continues to take root and grow across North Carolina. With our skilled workforce, strong infrastructure, and coordinated partnerships at the state and local level, North Carolina is well-positioned to support companies as they scale, innovate, and deliver for the future.”
Transportation Secretary Johnson highlighted increased demand for intercity rail service: “One of the many reasons for our investment is the momentum of NC By Train, the state’s intercity rail service,” Johnson said. “Last year marked the fourth year in a row of record ridership. To meet those demands, it is imperative to continue to work with our partners on all transportation fronts to deliver projects our communities want, need and will use.”
Tobias Bauer, CEO of Siemens Mobility North America added: “We are proud to celebrate the opening of our new Lexington facility and grateful for the strong partnership with State of North Carolina and local community… This $220 million investment reflects our long-term commitment to American manufacturing… With production now underway this facility will create more than 500 skilled jobs…”
The project was supported by a Job Development Investment Grant approved by North Carolina’s Economic Investment Committee last year; payments under this grant are tied directly to performance targets being met over twelve years.
Recent announcements from Governor Stein also include TSEA Energy investing $25 million into Rockingham County with plans for another plant creating additional jobs; meanwhile Siemens Foundation has launched Careers Electric—a training initiative aiming to prepare thousands statewide for energy sector employment.
Multiple agencies partnered on bringing Siemens Mobility’s project forward including departments within commerce as well as education institutions like Davidson-Davie Community College.
