Ceer, the pioneering electric vehicle (EV) brand from Saudi Arabia, has announced a strategic partnership with Croatia’s Rimac Technology, marking a significant step in the advancement of electric vehicles in the Middle East. This collaboration will see Rimac Technology supplying high-performance Electric Drive Systems (EDS) for Ceer’s upcoming flagship EVs.
This move positions Ceer as the first original equipment manufacturer (OEM) in Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East dedicated to electric vehicles. Ceer, a joint venture between Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) and global electronics giant Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., better known as Foxconn, aims to capitalise on Rimac’s expertise in electrification and advanced drivetrain technologies.
The partnership was formally announced at a ceremony in Croatia, attended by Rimac Technology CEO Mate Rimac and Ceer Motors CEO James DeLuca. DeLuca expressed enthusiasm, highlighting the importance of Rimac’s reputation in high-performance powertrain systems aligning with Ceer’s goals of industry-leading electric vehicle production.
James DeLuca commented: ““We are delighted to be the first company and large-scale project in the GCC to partner with Rimac Technology in order to equip Ceer flagship vehicles with the most advanced high performance electric drive systems and solutions. Rimac’s global reputation and know-how in designing leading edge performance powertrain systems aligns perfectly with our strategic objectives of partnering with global industry leaders as we fulfill our commitment to delivering world-class, high performance electric vehicles and revolutionize the automotive industry in Saudi Arabia.”
Rimac Technology has carved a niche in the automotive world, renowned for its work on high-performance vehicles such as the Rimac Nevera and the Aston Martin Valkyrie. The collaboration with Ceer signifies a shift for Rimac, expanding from niche markets to larger scale projects. This partnership with Ceer marks Rimac’s first venture in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.
The construction of the Ceer Manufacturing Complex (CMC) started earlier this year in the King Abdullah Economic City, Jeddah. The Ceer Manufacturing Complex, a US$1.3 billion facility, will be the most advanced of its kind in the MENA region. Covering 530,000 square-meters, it will include dedicated zones for every stage of vehicle production, including a press shop, body shop, paint shop, and general assembly. Additionally, the complex will feature dedicated zones for logistics, waste management, warehouses, offices, water treatment system, and a vehicle test track. These areas will be run by top-tier automotive suppliers located in the new facility, making it a world-class automotive and EV construction site.
Mate Rimac, founder of Rimac Group, articulated the company’s growth ambitions, noting that the collaboration with Ceer is part of a broader expansion strategy. He commented: “The collaboration with Ceer further solidifies Rimac Technology’s global electrification ambitions. This year alone we’ve announced several key partnerships, including with the BMW Group and Ceer, which will result in the production of tens of thousands of electric drive systems and battery systems for leading OEMs worldwide. With more exciting projects in the pipeline, we’ve strategically invested in our production facilities in Croatia, including the Rimac Campus and supporting infrastructure, which will soon be operating at full capacity.”
Rimac has been building capabilities and partnerships, including significant collaborations with the BMW Group, to produce thousands of electric systems globally. Investments in production facilities, like the Rimac Campus in Croatia, underscore these growth ambitions.
For Saudi Arabia, this partnership is more than just about building cars; it’s about economic diversification and job creation. Ceer is expected to attract over $150 million in foreign direct investment and create many jobs within and beyond the automotive sector. By 2034, Ceer’s activities are projected to contribute $8 billion to Saudi Arabia’s GDP.
With Foxconn’s involvement, the vehicles will also focus on incorporating advanced technological features, including infotainment, connectivity, and autonomous driving capabilities, designed and manufactured to meet stringent global standards.
As Saudi Arabia sets its sights on becoming a leader in the EV market, this partnership between Ceer and Rimac Technology represents a significant chapter in the country’s automotive and economic story. Further details about the collaboration’s scope and projected outcomes are expected to be disclosed in the coming months.
