"This is a major step toward establishing America as a leader of advanced vehicle technology," Henrik Fisker, Fisker CEO said when announcing the acquisition. "Wilmington is perfect for high quality, low volume production and will soon be the proud builder of world-class, fuel-efficient Fisker plug-in hybrids."
"With our close-knit business, government, and educational communities and our potential to respond rapidly to new opportunities, today's announcement is a testament to what works best in Delaware. Fisker is a perfect partner in shaping Delaware's economic future, and we are thrilled that the vehicle that can reshape the automobile industry will be built here in Delaware, by Delaware workers." Governor Jack Markell (D-Delaware) added.
Production at the facility will begin in 2012, with officials expecting some 2,000 factory jobs and more than 3,000 vendor and supplier jobs to be created in the region.
Fisker will buy Wilmington for only $18 million and only after it gives it a try for some four months. The plant will eat up an additional $175 million on refurbishing and retooling it.
As was to be expected, local unions have been more than happy to welcome Fisker.
"It gives me great pride to give UAW Local 435 workers the opportunity to partner with Fisker Automotive to create a greener America by building a plug-in hybrid car that will compete globally," Gary Casteel, UAW director of the plant concluded.
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