NanoGraf to build EV battery plant at former Buick City site

FLINT, Mich. (WNEM) - Congressman Dan Kildee announced the U.S. Department of Energy will award Chicago-based battery maker NanoGraf $60 million to build an EV battery plant at Flint's former Buick City site.

Kildee issued a statement celebrating the news, saying it "will create hundreds of new construction jobs and permanent jobs in Flint."

He said the investment will also "strengthen U.S. supply chains, and ensure we manufacture things in Michigan and the United States."

RELATED: Seeking to counter China, US awards $3 billion for EV battery production in 14 states

NanoGraf said the grant, along with its own capital, will create one of the world's largest silicon anode facilities.

"As a U.S.-based and U.S.-founded company, we're committed to strengthening the domestic battery supply chain—and this factory is a big step forward," said Francis Wang, CEO of NanoGraf. "Our expansion into Michigan will allow us to leap to larger scale production to meet national demands for high-performing EV batteries and consumer electronics."

NanoGraf said this project will create 200 new construction jobs and 150 permanent jobs. The company also said the plant will supply 1.5 million EV batteries a year.

"We are thrilled to welcome NanoGraf to Flint," Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley said. "The combined investment from NanoGraf and the Department of Energy will ensure domestic access to innovative battery technology, meeting future demand for higher-performing EVs, and creating high-paying jobs that will benefit Flint for years to come."

Stay with TV5 for more updates.