Mullen Expands U.S. Battery Production with Additional Nikola Assets

Mullen
Image Courtesy: Mullen

Mullen Automotive, an electric vehicle manufacturer, has announced the completion of its acquisition of additional battery production assets from Nikola Corporation to enhance its U.S. battery manufacturing capabilities. The newly purchased equipment will be installed at Mullen’s Fullerton, California facility, where the company is focusing on producing next-generation battery packs, modules, and solid-state polymers. This move is part of Mullen’s ongoing commitment to reducing reliance on imported battery components and supporting its zero-emissions goals.

Mullen has recently acquired key battery production and testing assets from Nikola, including a high-volume standard battery chemistry production line and an electro-dynamic shaker system (vibration table) for in-house battery system testing. These additions are expected to enhance Mullen’s capabilities in battery manufacturing and quality control, reinforcing its position in the EV and energy storage industries.

With these newly integrated assets, Mullen’s Fullerton facility will now be equipped with two high-volume standard battery chemistry production lines, along with high-precision, low-volume R&D lines for both standard battery chemistry and solid-state polymer development. Additionally, the facility will feature a fully equipped battery testing laboratory, further strengthening Mullen’s research and production capabilities in advanced battery technologies.

This expansion reflects Mullen’s strategic focus on boosting U.S.-based manufacturing to meet the growing demand for American-made battery components and systems. The company plans to produce its own commercial vehicle battery packs and expand into additional industry applications.

“We’re continuing our strategy of building American-made battery components right here in Southern California,” said David Michery, CEO and Chairman of Mullen Automotive. In September 2023, Mullen initially purchased battery production assets from Romeo Power, a Nikola subsidiary, for approximately $3.5 million.

This deal included equipment, inventory, and intellectual property for large-scale EV battery pack and module production. In December 2024, Mullen submitted an updated plan to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to support battery production at its facilities in Mishawaka, Indiana, and Fullerton, California, seeking $55 million in matching DOE funds to boost U.S. manufacturing capabilities.

Mullen Automotive, based in Southern California, is also involved in producing the next generation of commercial electric vehicles, with production plants in Tunica, Mississippi, and Mishawaka, Indiana. As of January 2024, the Mullen ONE electric cargo van and Mullen THREE electric cab chassis truck are certified by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and the EPA, and are available for sale in the U.S.

The company has expanded its dealer network, which includes several key dealers across the country, ensuring wide coverage for sales and service. In 2022, Mullen Motors acquired a majority stake in Bollinger Motors, a company focused on electric trucks, which has since reached several significant production milestones.