On Wednesday, Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE:ROK) said it had deepened its collaboration with Lucid Group (NASDAQ:LCID) to support the automaker’s expanding manufacturing facility in Saudi Arabia.
The plant, located in King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC), represents a milestone as the Kingdom’s first vehicle manufacturing site and aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader industrial development ambitions under Vision 2030.
FactoryTalk MES to Drive Production Efficiency
As part of the agreement, Lucid will deploy Rockwell Automation’s enterprise software solutions, including its FactoryTalk manufacturing execution system (MES), to manage and optimize production across key operations such as general assembly, paint, stamping, body, and powertrain. The platform is designed to deliver real-time visibility, traceability, and control, supporting Lucid’s efforts to scale production and enable future midsize vehicle programs.
“Lucid’s adoption of FactoryTalk MES is a strategic move that will deliver measurable outcomes in operational efficiency, quality, and scalability,” said Ahmad Haydar, country leader for Rockwell Automation in Saudi Arabia. “Our software will help Lucid meet its ambitious production goals while ensuring seamless integration with global supply chains and compliance with local standards. This is a proud moment for Rockwell Automation and a testament to our commitment to supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 through advanced manufacturing technologies and workforce development.”
Workforce Development and Local Training
Beyond software deployment, Rockwell’s local Saudi team will provide instructor-led and virtual training programs aimed at developing local EV manufacturing expertise. The initiative is intended to build a skilled domestic workforce capable of supporting long-term industrial growth.
“Rockwell Automation has been a trusted partner throughout our journey, from our Arizona factory to our expansion in Saudi Arabia,” said Faisal Sultan, president of the Middle East at Lucid. “Their software solutions and local expertise will help us scale production while maintaining the highest standards of quality and innovation our customers have come to expect. We’re excited to continue this collaboration as we expand world-class electric vehicle manufacturing in the region.”
Recently, Lucid announced that Trimble Inc. (NASDAQ:TRMB) will supply advanced positioning technology for the automaker’s upcoming Gravity electric SUV. Trimble’s system combines satellite signals with inertial sensors to deliver centimeter-level accuracy, even in tunnels and dense urban areas. The technology improves lane-level navigation and driver assistance reliability and will be standard on new Gravity models starting in late January 2026, with updates available for existing vehicles.
Price Action: Lucid Group shares were down 0.21% at $9.71 during premarket trading on Wednesday, according to Benzinga Pro data. ROK shares closed 2.77% lower at $404 on Tuesday.
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