An e-bike manufacturer is shifting gears in Putnam County, as LEV Manufacturing prepares to open a 100,000-square-foot assembly and distribution center in Algood that will bring 288 jobs and a $7 million investment to the area. The facility at 2415 Burton Branch Road is set to become the company’s primary U.S. hub for assembly, logistics and fulfillment for Rad Power Bikes and other Life EV Group brands.
What the Algood Facility Will Do
According to the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development, LEV (Light Electric Vehicles) Manufacturing, part of the Life EV Group, is acquiring the 100,000-square-foot building and expects to create 288 jobs while investing roughly $7 million. Company leaders describe the site as a central hub for assembling and distributing Rad Power Bikes, Serial 1 and Life EV branded e-bikes. “Establishing our Tennessee facility represents a major milestone,” LEV CEO Robert Provost said in the announcement.
Local Leaders Call It a Win
State and local officials are treating the project as a shot in the arm for the Upper Cumberland economy. As reported by WSMV, Gov. Bill Lee cited Tennessee’s strong, business-friendly climate and said the investment will create new opportunities for Putnam County families. Local outlets including UC Now highlighted city and county leaders who expect the plant to spur supplier hiring and reinforce the region’s manufacturing base.
How It Ties to Rad Power’s Revival
Life Electric Vehicles completed a court-approved acquisition of Rad Power Bikes’ assets in March, and the company has said it plans to shift more assembly work to U.S. facilities, using affiliated manufacturing operations and a Foreign Trade Zone structure to help manage imports and tariffs. Those plans were detailed in a March press release covered by Nasdaq, and trade reporting indicates the Algood site will support distribution and future assembly for multiple Life EV brands. Company leaders say the move fits into a broader strategy to vertically integrate assembly, distribution and retail under Rad Life Mobility.
What to Watch Next
Industry analysts point out that “made in the U.S.” often refers to final assembly rather than full component manufacturing, and that sourcing batteries, motors and controllers remains a global puzzle, a concern raised in industry analysis. Electrek notes that most e-bike components are still produced overseas, which could limit how much manufacturing actually shifts stateside. Trade coverage also indicates that the Algood operation will work with Tennessee research institutions on product innovation, battery technology and workforce initiatives as it ramps up.
