Kokomo Bets Big on EV Future: Mayor Tyler Moore Talks Growth, Innovation, and American Manufacturing

Written By Bree Bragg

City of Kokomo Mayor Tyler Moore recently took the national stage in a webcast hosted by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), shedding light on how Kokomo is becoming a key player in the future of electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturing.

The conversation, part of CSIS’s “Betting on America” series, explored how communities across the country are revitalizing their economies through forward-thinking industrial strategies.

With more than $2.5 billion in new investment flowing into Kokomo from the Samsung SDI and Stellantis joint venture, Moore said the city is being reshaped as a critical node in America’s EV supply chain. Moore emphasized the city's historical manufacturing expertise as a foundation for this transformation.

“We’re not just building batteries — we’re building futures,” he said, in the webcast.

He says Kokomo’s ability to land such a massive investment didn’t happen by accident. Moore explained how local leaders worked quickly to accommodate the project, from fast-tracking zoning approvals to enhancing infrastructure.

“Federal investments like the CHIPS Act helped us stay competitive,” Moore said, underscoring how federal support paired with local readiness can position mid-sized cities to compete on a global scale.

To prepare the next generation of workers, Moore said the city is working closely with Ivy Tech Community College and other training partners to develop certification programs tailored to EV manufacturing.

“How is the city preparing its workforce for EV manufacturing?” was one of the key questions posed during the webcast. Moore pointed to these educational efforts as vital to ensuring that the jobs created are filled by local residents ready to step into skilled roles.

Equally important is maintaining balance between growth and community well-being, he said, addressing concerns about the pace of development and its impact on residents.

“It’s all about being transparent and keeping the community at the table,” he said. The city continues to hold open forums, listening sessions, and collaborative planning meetings to ensure the future is built with Kokomo residents, not just around them.

Additional highlights from the webcast included:

  • Strategic location advantages tied to existing automotive infrastructure: Approximately [10:15]

  • The emergence of Kokomo as a model for public-private partnerships: Approximately [18:30]

  • Plans for sustainable growth that protects local character and culture: Approximately [25:45]

  • Enhanced economic resilience through supply chain diversification: Approximately [33:10]

As the demand for electric vehicles accelerates and America seeks to re-shore critical industries, Kokomo is stepping up as a national leader. Through vision, partnerships, and a commitment to innovation, the city is showing what’s possible when local action meets global opportunity.

Basically, to sum it up…

What’s happening?
Kokomo landed a huge investment from Stellantis and Samsung SDI to build EV batteries—$2.5 billion huge.

What does it mean for Kokomo?

  • Thousands of jobs for local residents

  • Training programs to help people get those jobs

  • Big improvements to city infrastructure

  • More national attention (and opportunity) for Kokomo

  • Long-term economic growth and a stronger local economy

Key Notes:

  • Kokomo is becoming a key part of the EV supply chain.

  • This project is the result of fast action by city leaders and smart partnerships.

  • The city is making sure local people benefit from the progress.

Bottom line: Moore says Kokomo’s not just surviving—it’s thriving and leading the way in America’s clean energy future.

The full webcast, featuring Moore and moderated by CSIS experts, is available for viewing at csis.org or the video below.

Bree Bragg
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