The transportation and energy industries are in the midst of a historic transformation. Electrification is reshaping how vehicles are built, powered, and connected to the grid. Global electric vehicle (EV) production has accelerated dramatically over the past decade, and that growth is expected to continue as automakers, suppliers, and governments invest in cleaner, more efficient transportation systems.
Alabama is uniquely positioned to lead in this new mobility era. With major manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz, Honda, Hyundai, Toyota, and their extensive supplier networks, the state has built one of the most dynamic automotive ecosystems in the nation. Alabama’s automakers produce nearly one million vehicles each year and rank among the top three states for U.S. auto exports. These companies have made strong commitments to electrification—investing billions in EV and battery production to meet global demand.
To strengthen Alabama’s leadership in this fast-evolving landscape, The University of Alabama, Alabama Power Company, and Mercedes-Benz U.S. International (MBUSI) established the Alabama Mobility and Power (AMP) Center—a world-class research and development hub dedicated to advancing electric vehicle technologies, charging infrastructure, and power delivery systems.
The AMP Center serves as a collaborative platform that connects industry, academia, and government to accelerate innovation across the EV battery and power ecosystem. Its mission is to drive research, workforce development, and economic growth in sustainable mobility—positioning Alabama as a key player in the emerging “Battery Belt” of the southeastern United States.
Organized under the Alabama Transportation Institute and housed in UA’s Smart Communities and Innovation Building, the AMP Center leverages the University’s technical expertise, research infrastructure, and strategic partnerships to support:
- Advanced battery and materials research
- Grid integration and resilient charging systems
- Workforce training and development for the EV supply chain
- Industry partnerships that attract new investment and jobs to Alabama
By aligning education, research, and economic development, the AMP Center is powering the future of mobility—and helping Alabama lead the charge toward a cleaner, more connected transportation future.