04/01/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/01/2026 15:18
WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) joined U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy, Mercedes-Benz global leadership, and Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) in celebrating the assembly of over five million vehicles at the Mercedes-Benz assembly plant in Vance, Alabama, Mercedes' $4 billion pledged additional investment in its Alabama operations, and the global unveiling of two new Mercedes models.
From left to right: Mercedes-Benz North America CEO Jason Hoff, Senators Tuberville and Britt, Secretary Duffy, and Mercedes-Benz Group CEO Ola Källenius
Mercedez-Benz unveiled the new GLE and GLS models at its Tuscaloosa County facility and announced a $4 billion investment in the plant over the next several years, highlighting Alabama as a pillar of global auto manufacturing.
Senator Britt spoke on Alabama's manufacturing strength: "We are deeply proud to be the strong hub of auto manufacturing in the South and continuing to be at the forefront of manufacturing and innovation across our great nation. Companies know that when they invest in Alabama that they are going to yield significant results. And the reason they know that is because of your example. So today we say thank you to you. Thank you for investing billions of dollars in the great state of Alabama. Thank you for changing what's possible for so many. And thank you for committing to continuing to be a part of our future."
She thanked Mercedes-Benz for its long-standing commitment to Alabama: "As we celebrate the five million vehicles here in Alabama, it's a testament to your long term commitment and outstanding dedication to the men and women who make that happen. Look, the impact of Mercedes cannot be understated on our state. The company is not only a manufacturing giant, but it is also a cornerstone of our economy and a true, trusted partner in our communities. When you think about those jobs numbers that … you heard earlier, what that means are good paying jobs for hardworking Alabamians. That means the opportunity for the American dream, opportunity for something better for their children as a result of this investment. It also means that everyone here gets to be a part of something bigger than themselves … With two thirds of the vehicles produced here exported to markets across the globe, this company has helped make a made-in-Alabama model even stronger."
Finally, the Senator thanked President Trump and Secretary Duffy for their leadership: "With President Trump and Secretary Duffy by his side, that partnership and leadership will advance the vision that will ensure our infrastructure, our transportation and the support continue to grow for Americans coast to coast. Our auto industry is quite literally moving us into the future, and Alabama is proud to be a driving force for the entire nation, and remains committed to be the forefront of innovation … And once again, thank you to the leadership of Mercedes for your continued investment and belief in Alabama. You have truly changed what was possible for tens of thousands of our communities. God Bless."
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