The Uudenkaupungin car factory, operated by Valmet Automotive, announced plans to start the serial production of electric buses, following a preliminary agreement with Finnish company Jeti Industries. This marks a significant step towards the production of electric city and regional buses, utilizing a contract manufacturing model. The initiative emphasizes the growing trend towards sustainable public transportation solutions and aligns with the wider push for electric vehicle adoption across Europe.

Previously, in December, Valmet Automotive disclosed that it would also assemble military vehicles produced by Sisu Auto at the Uudenkaupungin plant. These developments come on the heels of major restructuring negotiations that occurred last autumn, which were largely prompted by the cessation of Mercedes-Benz car production at the Uudenkaupungin facility. This transition signifies not only a response to market changes but also a strategic shift in the factory's operations to adapt to new automotive technologies and demands.

The commencement of electric bus production is not just indicative of the factory's adaptability but also reflects Finland's broader commitment to enhancing its transportation infrastructure with environmentally friendly solutions. As electric buses become more prevalent, this initiative may have far-reaching implications for local employment, the economy, and advancements in the automotive industry in Finland, potentially positioning the Uudenkaupungin factory as a key player in the emerging electric vehicle sector.