MES Deployment for EV Manufacturing in Saudi Arabia

Rockwell Automation is extending its collaboration with Lucid by deploying manufacturing execution system software at the automaker’s new production facility in King Abdullah Economic City, supporting coordinated and traceable EV manufacturing operations.

Manufacturing context and facility scope
Lucid’s facility in King Abdullah Economic City represents the first vehicle manufacturing site in Saudi Arabia and forms part of the country’s broader industrial development strategy. The plant is designed to support scalable electric vehicle production, including future midsize vehicle platforms, and requires integrated control of complex, multi-shop manufacturing processes.

To address these requirements, Lucid is implementing Rockwell Automation’s enterprise software across all major production areas, including stamping, body, paint, powertrain, and general assembly.

Role of MES in EV production
The deployed manufacturing execution system provides a unified digital layer between shop-floor equipment and higher-level planning systems. It enables real-time visibility into production status, material flow, and quality metrics across the plant. This level of integration supports consistent execution of manufacturing processes while enabling traceability of components and assemblies throughout the production lifecycle.

Such capabilities are particularly relevant in EV manufacturing, where tight coordination between mechanical assembly, electronics, and powertrain production is required. Centralized data collection and analysis also support alignment with a digital supply chain by linking production data to upstream suppliers and downstream logistics.

Operational benefits and standards alignment
By standardizing production management across all shops, the MES platform supports repeatable processes and scalable operations as production volumes increase. Real-time monitoring and historical data analysis enable earlier identification of deviations, contributing to improved quality control and reduced rework.

The system also supports compliance with local regulatory requirements while maintaining consistency with Lucid’s global manufacturing standards. This is essential for manufacturers operating across multiple regions with differing regulatory frameworks and certification requirements.

Workforce enablement and local support
In parallel with the software deployment, Rockwell Automation’s local team in Saudi Arabia will deliver instructor-led and virtual training programs. These programs are intended to build local expertise in advanced EV manufacturing systems and digital production management.

Developing local technical capabilities is a key element in ensuring long-term operational stability and knowledge transfer. Training aligned with deployed automation and software systems enables faster ramp-up and more effective use of manufacturing data for continuous improvement.

Application context
The collaboration demonstrates how integrated manufacturing software platforms are being applied in greenfield EV facilities to manage complexity from the outset. For emerging automotive manufacturing hubs, combining MES-based production control with workforce development provides a foundation for scalable, standards-compliant operations and supports broader industrial transformation objectives.