Ford has a steel-supply agreement, as does Itochu. ABB expects to supply the plant's power distribution, drives, and automation. The agreement with ABB is similar to those with the other partners, company spokesman Ron Dicklich says.
More equity partners are possible.
MIS is amid the early stages of the permitting process, which will take about 18 months. The plant's startup is about three years away. The company has all the private equity needed to build the steelmaking facility, Dicklich says. Kobe will have an opportunity to meet the best bid, however.