PEORIA – State Senator Dave Koehler is celebrating a nearly $32 million investment in Peoria. Damera Corporation announced plans to open its first U.S. electric vehicle assembly plant, bringing 90 new full-time jobs to the region.

“Damera Corporation choosing our community for its first U.S. assembly plant speaks volumes about the talent and potential in our backyard,” said Koehler (D-Peoria) This is about good-paying jobs, cleaner transportation and our community stepping into a brighter, greener future."

As part of the state’s Reimagining Energy and Vehicles in Illinois initiative, Damera Corporation is investing nearly $32 million into the Peoria facility, bringing 90 new full-time jobs and a boost for the local economy.

Damera Corporation is the exclusive North American distributer of the zero-emission minibus with a 19 passenger capacity and a 130-mile range.

The investment will bring Illinois closer to its Koehler-backed goal of having one million electric vehicles on the road by 2030 and net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. 

"Peoria has always been a hub of innovation," Koehler said."I am eager to see the positive impact this assembly plant will have for years to come."

Koehler will continue to support project and investments to increase jobs and enhance the economy – all while contributing to a healthier environment.