Mullen Automotive has furthered its U.S. battery production capabilities by purchasing battery line equipment from Nikola Corporation for its Fullerton, California, battery operations. Mullen plans to start production in the second half of 2025.

The Fullerton facility is dedicated to producing next-generation, American-made battery packs, modules and advanced solid-state polymers, which Mullen said are critical components to its commitment to zero emissions and to reducing reliance on key battery components imported from foreign countries. 

Recently purchased Nikola assets include:

• A high-volume standard battery chemistry production line.

• Electro-dynamic shaker system (vibration table) to be utilized for in-house laboratory testing of battery and overall system components.

“We continue to execute our plan of transitioning to American-made battery components, and we are doing it right here in Southern California,” said David Michery, CEO and chairman of Mullen Automotive. 

Upgrading Battery Production Lines

Upon installation of the newly purchased equipment, Mullen will have the following battery production lines and testing capabilities in Fullerton:

• Two high-volume standard battery chemistry lines. 

• High-precision, low-volume standard battery chemistry R&D line.

• High-precision, low-volume solid-state polymer R&D line.

• Full battery testing laboratory for current and future battery projects.

Meeting American-Made Battery Demand

Mullen said it is focused on increasing U.S. manufacturing capabilities in response to demand for American-made battery components and systems. Its plan is to produce its own commercial vehicle battery packs while also opening other industry applications and commercial sales opportunities.

Production Assets from Romeo Power

In September 2023, Mullen announced the initial purchase of battery production assets from Romeo Power, a subsidiary of Nikola Corporation, for approximately $3.5 million. 

The deal included equipment, inventory, and intellectual property for high-volume EV battery pack and module production.

On Dec. 17, 2024, Mullen submitted a modified plan to the U.S. Department of Energy that incorporates its facilities in Mishawaka, Indiana, and Fullerton, California, for U.S.-based battery and pack production.

In total, Mullen is seeking $55 million in matching DOE funds to support the U.S. manufacturing capabilities.