Foxconn has announced plans to collaborate with Japan’s SoftBank to manufacture data centre equipment at its former electric vehicle factory in Lordstown, Ohio, as part of the Stargate project aimed at advancing U.S. artificial intelligence infrastructure. Foxconn Chairman, Young Liu, confirmed that SoftBank has purchased the site and revealed that both companies will operate it through a new joint venture.
Earlier this month, Foxconn disclosed that it had struck a deal to sell the factory and its machinery for $375 million, though the buyer was not initially named. The Lordstown plant, once dedicated to EV production, will now be repositioned as a hub for data centre technology under the partnership with SoftBank.
The Stargate project, a high-profile joint venture involving SoftBank, OpenAI, and Oracle, was unveiled by U.S. President Donald Trump in January with an investment pledge of up to $500 billion. The initiative is seen as a strategic move to bolster America’s AI infrastructure and reduce reliance on overseas technology platforms.
Foxconn revealed that preparatory work with SoftBank had been ongoing for over six months. According to Young Liu, key considerations for the project include power availability, venue, and timing, stressing that Ohio offers the right environment to fast-track the venture. SoftBank has yet to issue an official comment on the announcement.