Germany-based Mercedes-Benz supplier Samvardhana Motherson Group plans to open a $150 million, 700,000-square foot, manufacturing facility at Cedar Cove Technology Park in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama. The facility will create 650 jobs by the fourth year of operation.

The new venture, called SMP Automotive Systems Alabama Inc., will manufacture various exterior and interior components for future models produced at the Mercedes assembly plant in Tuscaloosa County.

“We are very excited to finally establish a footprint in the Tuscaloosa region. The new plant will be a clear sign of a successful partnership with our customer and the state of Alabama,” said Vivek Chaand Sehgal, Chairman of the Samvardhana Motherson Group.

“Alabama has a positive business climate and a skilled workforce that is second to none. We have worked hard to recruit well-paying jobs for the people of this state, and I am honored to see SMP expand to Alabama,” said Governor Robert Bentley. “In coming years, the company will provide 650 new jobs and produce even more products that are ‘Made in Alabama."

“The Alabama economic development team has targeted growth in the state’s auto supply chain because it serves to strengthen the industry’s foundation here,” said Greg Canfield, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. “Developing partnerships with global suppliers like SMP reflects this strategy and sets the stage for additional job-creation and growth in Alabama’s advanced manufacturing sector.”