Rockwell Automation Enhances Lucid's Saudi EV Manufacturing Capabilities with Advanced Software Integration

In a significant development for the electric vehicle manufacturing sector in the Middle East, Rockwell Automation, Inc. announced the intensification of its cooperation with Lucid Group aimed at bolstering the latter’s expanding production plant situated in King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC), Saudi Arabia. The facility stands as the Kingdom’s inaugural vehicle manufacturing site, a landmark reflecting Saudi Arabia’s strategic industrial growth initiatives under its Vision 2030 framework. Central to the expanded collaboration is Lucid’s integration of Rockwell Automation’s enterprise-grade software solutions, particularly the FactoryTalk manufacturing execution system (MES). This software suite is set to oversee and optimize critical manufacturing segments such as assembly lines, painting operations, stamping processes, body fabrication, and powertrain assembly. FactoryTalk MES offers a robust platform capable of real-time production monitoring, traceability, and operational control, which are critical factors for scaling production effectively and preparing for forthcoming midsize vehicle programs. Ahmad Haydar, Rockwell Automation’s country leader in Saudi Arabia, emphasized that Lucid’s implementation of the FactoryTalk MES constitutes a key strategic initiative aimed at achieving measurable gains in operational efficiency, rigorous quality control, and scalable manufacturing capacity. Haydar highlighted that the software solution not only facilitates adherence to local regulatory standards but also ensures seamless coordination with global supply chain networks. He articulated that this partnership underscores Rockwell’s dedication to contributing advanced manufacturing technology and workforce training initiatives that directly support the aspirations outlined in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. Beyond software deployment, Rockwell’s localized team within Saudi Arabia has committed to providing comprehensive training via both instructor-led and virtual formats. These programs are formulated to cultivate a proficient domestic workforce with specialized skills tailored to EV manufacturing. Such workforce development efforts aim to secure long-term industrial sustainability and contribute to the Kingdom's economic diversification strategy. Faisal Sultan, president of Lucid’s Middle East operations, articulated the company’s confidence in Rockwell Automation, noting the software’s instrumental role in transitioning from Lucid's established Arizona facility to Saudi Arabia’s nascent manufacturing environment. Sultan underscored that Rockwell’s combined provision of technological tools and regional expertise equips Lucid to effectively upscale production capacities while maintaining the innovation and quality standards demanded by their customer base. The continuation of this strategic partnership is expected to propel the emergence of world-class electric vehicle production within the region. Complementing these developments, Lucid recently publicized its selection of Trimble Inc. as a supplier for precision positioning technology destined for its forthcoming Gravity electric SUV model. Trimble’s system employs a combination of satellite navigation and inertial sensors to achieve centimeter-level positional accuracy, enhancing driver assistance functions and lane-level positioning reliability. This technology will become a standard feature in the Gravity model starting in late January 2026, with planned availability for updates on existing vehicles as well. On the financial market front, Lucid Group’s shares exhibited a slight premarket decline of 0.21%, trading at $9.71 as per data on Wednesday. Concurrently, Rockwell Automation’s stock closed 2.77% lower at $404 on the preceding trading day. The collaboration between Rockwell Automation and Lucid Group not only exemplifies the melding of advanced industrial software solutions with regional production ambitions but also aligns with broader geopolitical and economic initiatives aiming to position Saudi Arabia as a prominent player in the global electric vehicle manufacturing landscape. The integration of high-precision technology and workforce training further signals a comprehensive approach to building sustainable manufacturing ecosystems.