Karsan North American dealer Damera will open a e-bus assembly plant in Illinois, USA, to produce e-Jest and “additional models”

Karsan North American dealer Damera Corporation is set to open its first U.S. assembly plant in Illinois (Greater Peoria region). The company “plans to make a capital investment of more than $31.5 million over four years with support from a Reimagining Energy and Vehicles in Illinois (REV Illinois) agreement, which will enable the company to expand into Illinois and create 90 new full-time jobs”, reads a press note by Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO).

As part of the State’s comprehensive incentive package, Damera Corporation received a REV Illinois tax credit for their capital investment and commitment to job creation (not further details are mentioned).

Karsan in the North American market

Damera Corporation, a Canadian transit solutions provider, is the exclusive North American distributor of the Karsan e-Jest zero emission minibus (that has been produced, counting also the previous Jest range, in over 10,000 units so far). Karsan entered the North American market in 2022. The e-Jest has been in the position of Europe’s best-selling electric minibus for 5 consecutive years. In 2023, Karsan e-Jest achieved another important success by becoming the first European electric bus brand to enter the Japanese market with its right-hand drive version, and then entered the UK market.

Damera Bus USA LLC “has leased a facility in the greater Peoria region to sell and service the e-Jest and to establish their first U.S. electric transit bus assembly plant to deploy additional models – still quoting from the press note -. The facility will include assembly lines, testing zones, quality control, storage, and administrative offices as well as specialized areas for battery assembly, charging infrastructure, and sustainability initiatives”.

“Over the past six years, Illinois has pushed to solidify our status as a hub of the EV future – and put our shoulder to the wheel to get that vision off the ground and on the road,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “With this investment of more than $31.5 million-supported by state incentives-Damera will expand into our state and create 90 new full-time jobs. Through our competitive incentive programs, workforce development, and other business attraction efforts, the state is bringing in companies like Damera that not only create jobs and opportunity for our people, but commit themselves to our communities.”

“Today marks a milestone for Peoria and Illinois,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. “Investments like this from the Damera Corporation are a testament to the kind of economy we are building here in Illinois; one that provides opportunity to all corners of our state and builds towards a sustainable future.”

“As we continue to expand Damera Bus USA LLC’s presence in the United States, our commitment to fostering long-term growth and job creation in the Peoria area remains unwavering. This investment not only strengthens the local economy but also creates hundreds of new opportunities for the community. We are proud to contribute to a vibrant workforce and are deeply committed to supporting the economic prosperity of the region,” said Roger D’Hollander, Chief Operating Officer of Damera. “This investment aligns directly with the BAA waiver application we have put forward that will facilitate our expansion in the US and help reinforce our long-term vision for the future. We would also like to thank Congressman LaHood and his office for their support of this effort and for playing a crucial role in ensuring its success. We are excited about the positive impact this partnership will have on the local economy, the creation of sustainable jobs, and the continued growth of Peoria County and the state of Illinois.”

“Illinois continues to attract global leaders in clean energy and advanced manufacturing thanks to our skilled workforce, strong infrastructure, and bold vision for a sustainable future,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “Damera’s decision to establish their first U.S. assembly plant in Peoria is a testament our strategic investments through REV Illinois, and it marks another step toward cultivating a greener economy for all Illinoisans.”