Canoo, an up-and-coming electric vehicle maker, has recently begun shipping its Lifestyle Delivery Vehicles (LDVs) from its new production base in Oklahoma City. This move is not just a win for Canoo, but also a big step forward for Oklahoma, marking the state’s re-entry into vehicle manufacturing after a long gap since 2006.

The company’s Oklahoma City Plant is expected to create over 1300 jobs

Canoo reached out to GizmoChina, elaborating that the OMES (Office of Management and Enterprise Services) has not purchased any vehicles at the time of writing this article and no vehicles have been delivered to the state. However, the company has plans to purchase 3 vehicles before the year comes to a close.

Canoo Electric

This development is significant for several reasons. First, it showcases Canoo’s growth and commitment to expanding its manufacturing capabilities. The company is actively hiring for its facilities in Oklahoma City and Pryor, aiming to create over 1,300 jobs backed by a $320 million investment. This job creation and economic boost are vital for Oklahoma, offering new opportunities in a state eager to diversify its economy.

Secondly, the Canoo LDV represents innovation in electric vehicle technology. Built on Canoo’s Multi-Purpose Platform (MPP), these vehicles are versatile, available as either passenger or cargo vans. The recent announcement of a larger variant, the LDV 190, highlights Canoo’s focus on meeting diverse customer needs.

Canoo’s broader impact extends beyond just vehicle production. Earlier this year, the company secured incentive agreements with the state of Oklahoma and the Cherokee Nation, potentially worth up to $113 million, contingent on job creation and investment targets. Moreover, recent funding agreements, including a $45 million investment from a foreign institutional investor, indicate growing confidence in Canoo’s vision and capabilities.

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