The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) recently announced that the state has approved support through the Michigan Strategic Fund for three business expansion projects, including the expansion of EAVX, the innovation hub of JB Poindexter & Co (JBPCO) in Ypsilanti Township.
“Hosting EAVX’s technology hub in Ypsilanti Township is a great partnership opportunity for our region. Innovation is at the heart of EAVX’s work in mobility, and plugs in seamlessly with the new ideas, products, and talent being developed in the greater Ann Arbor region, said Ann Arbor SPARK President and CEO Paul Krutko. “We’re excited to partner with EAVX as they choose Ypsilanti Township for this project, and continue to connect as they grow their team, and demonstrate new ideas to the world.”
The project is expected to generate a total capital investment of $3.79 million and create 75 high-wage jobs, supported by a $600,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant. The company chose Michigan for the project over competing sites in Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia because of Michigan’s outstanding reputation in automotive research and development.
JBPCO is a diversified manufacturing company headquartered in Houston, TX. The company manages a portfolio of business units engaged in the production of a wide range of vehicles and bodies, including commercial trucks, service utility trucks, limousines, and more. The company sells its products through a network of independent truck dealers, original equipment manufacturers, leasing companies, government entities, and commercial and individual end users. The company employs more than 6,800 team members in more than 56 facilities across North America, with 900 employees in Michigan.
EAVX is JBPCO’s innovation center and technology hub, with 95 percent of its business dedicated to transportation. To meet increased customer demand and become the bodybuilder of choice for the alternative fuel market, the company plans to expand its operations in Ypsilanti Township where it will add the EAVX business unit. EAVX will specialize in manufacturing alternative power chassis and producing prototype vehicles with advanced electric and autonomous powered chassis from various chassis manufacturers.
The project will bring immediate job growth with a growing auto supplier and contributes to the MEDC’s ongoing efforts to position Michigan as the global leader in the future of mobility and vehicle electrification.
JBPCO offers cross-training to its employees to allow them to grow their skill sets and strives to promote from within. The company also utilizes Michigan Works! to reach local talent and partners with local universities, including the University of Michigan.
Ann Arbor SPARK has offered staff recruitment and workforce training assistance in support of the project. For information on careers with EAVX visit careers.jbpoindexter.com/us/en/c/eavx-jobs.
