Houston-based MetOx International Inc., a leader in high-temperature superconducting (HTS) technology, has chosen Chatham County, North Carolina, for its $193.7 million manufacturing facility. This new plant will create 333 high-paying jobs and strengthen the domestic supply chain for advanced energy technologies.

The facility will focus on producing HTS wires, which enable ultra-efficient power transmission without energy loss or heat generation. These wires are up to ten times more efficient than traditional copper cables, aiding power distribution, grid expansion, and energy efficiency.

CEO Bud Vos emphasized the importance of the project in reducing carbon emissions and fostering innovation. "This facility will deliver transformative energy technologies while creating quality manufacturing jobs in a community eager to lead in innovation," Vos stated.

The initiative is supported by $80 million from the U.S. Department of Energy and investments like $25 million from a Series B extension round and an undisclosed amount from Elemental Impact, a climate-focused investment platform. These funds will also expand MetOx’s Houston production line and advance HTS wire deployment.

Caterpillar Inc. marks its 100th anniversary with celebrations and a focus on innovation and sustainability. The company, founded in 1925 through the merger of The Holt Manufacturing Company and C.L. Best Tractor Co., celebrates a century of contributions to global infrastructure and industry.

Events are being held in key locations, including Sanford, North Carolina; Peoria, Illinois; and the company’s headquarters in Irving, Texas. The Centennial World Tour, an interactive journey visiting Caterpillar facilities worldwide, showcases its legacy and vision. Additionally, Caterpillar is releasing limited-edition "Centennial Grey" machines for purchase in 2025.

Looking forward, Caterpillar emphasizes autonomous equipment, carbon reduction, and customer-centric innovation as core to its future. Chairman and CEO Jim Umpleby highlighted the company’s dedication to building a more sustainable world while honoring the contributions of employees, customers, and partners.

Deere & Co., the world's largest farm equipment manufacturer, unveiled its latest autonomous machinery at CES 2025 in Las Vegas. The lineup includes two autonomous tractors, a quarry-specific dump truck, and a battery-electric commercial landscaping mower, all designed to address global labor shortages and rising costs.

The company also introduced its second-generation autonomy kit, featuring AI, advanced computer vision, and cameras for full autonomy. These kits can retrofit existing tractors, dump trucks, and mowers, making the technology more accessible to farmers and industries worldwide.

Based in Moline, Illinois, Deere's innovations come as part of a broader trend, with competitors like Caterpillar investing in off-highway vehicle automation. The move highlights Deere’s focus on boosting productivity in agriculture, construction, and landscaping globally.

GKN Aerospace has unveiled a new $55 million, 150,000-square-foot repair facility in San Diego, doubling its maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capacity. Equipped with cutting-edge automation and robotics, the site supports next-generation engines like GE LEAP and Pratt & Whitney Geared Turbofan, alongside legacy models.

Serving over 400 global civil and military aviation customers, the facility also plans significant workforce expansion beyond its current 900 employees. Joakim Andersson, president of Engine Systems, highlighted the company's commitment to innovation and meeting North America’s growing MRO demand.

Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Transport and Logistics, Eng. Saleh Al-Jasser, announced the signing of contracts worth over SR10 billion to establish 18 new logistics zones. This initiative, revealed at the 6th Supply Chain and Logistics Conference in Riyadh, is part of the Kingdom's drive to strengthen its global competitiveness under Vision 2030.

𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗱𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗱𝗲:

• Expansion of logistics zones from 22 to 59 by 2030.

• Saudi ports achieving a 231.7-point increase in UNCTAD’s maritime connectivity index and adding 30 new shipping lines.

• SR5 billion investment to expand the Northern Train to support the growing mining sector.

The two-day conference featured the signing of 86 agreements, participation from 65 international and local companies, and initiatives like empowering women in logistics through training. With exports from the re-export sector growing 23% year-on-year to reach SR61 billion, Saudi Arabia continues its efforts to solidify its status as a global logistics hub.