Mercedes-Benz’s announcement Thursday that it will begin production of a new vehicle at its Tuscaloosa County plant beginning in 2027 was what you might call an expected surprise. Like when somebody tips you off that you’re going to have a surprise birthday party just before you walk into a darkened room.

"A huge win" for Alabama, said U.S. Sen. Katie Britt of the new core segment vehicle that will begin production in 2027 in Tuscaloosa County.

Mercedes-Benz said Thursday it will add a “core segment” vehicle line to its plant in Tuscaloosa, Ala., by 2027. The factory now makes SUVs, and the company didn’t specify which