Mozee, Inc., a leader in autonomous mobility innovation, will establish its U.S. headquarters and a new automotive manufacturing and assembly plant (over 87,000 sq. ft.) in Arlington. The Dallas-based company manufactures some associated parts through a 3D printing process to assemble autonomous 12-passenger shuttles that are road-legal and capable of speeds up to 45 mph.
With multiple purchase orders to produce vehicles for entities ranging from corporations and universities to local municipalities, Mozee is looking to increase its production capacity and staff. They will hire over 100 new positions with a minimum average salary of $100,000/year, with plans to hire local residents and graduates from the University of Texas at Arlington.
"Mozee is leading edge—owner Shawn Taikratoke refers to it as 'deep tech'—in a number of ways. They manufacture autonomous vehicles using 3D printing, which operate with proprietary Sensei software that will ultimately be licensed to others,” said Marty Wieder, executive director of the Arlington Economic Development Corporation (EDC).
“This is just the type of innovative project and employment that was called out in the City's Economic Development Strategic Plan, and it ties well to the assets and workforce being fostered at the University of Texas at Arlington," he said.
The Arlington EDC will provide financial support to assist with tenant improvements to relocate and establish their U.S. headquarters, as well as offset lease costs over the next 7 years. The agreement requires that Mozee announces their headquarters in Arlington by the end of 2024, create the projected number of high-wage jobs and invest in new manufacturing equipment to receive annual grant payments, which shall not exceed $4,179,102. If the agreement is breached (including headquarter re-location outside of Arlington), Mozee would be required to repay all grant payments received up to that point.
“We are incredibly excited to relocate Mozee’s headquarters and establish our vehicle manufacturing operations in Arlington. Being part of the DFW-Arlington area offers us strategic advantages in terms of location and resources,” said Mozee CEO Shawn Taikratoke.
“The partnership with the Arlington EDC has been instrumental in making this transition seamless. Arlington’s vibrant business climate and strong ties with the University of Texas at Arlington provide us with unparalleled opportunities to innovate, grow and expand our manufacturing capabilities. We look forward to contributing to the community, creating jobs, and collaborating with local talent to drive our company’s future success,” he said.