The latest announcement from
General Motors on its plans for manufacturing in mid-Michigan is a hopeful one. The company is investing more than $163 million into engine production for three Chevrolet cars in the U.S., at three locations.
One of those locations is Bay City; the others are Flint, and Defiance, Ohio. Between the three places, the investment should shore up 184 jobs. The three plants will produce engines for the Chevrolet Volt and Cruze, as well as a new Chevrolet small car, yet to be announced.
In Bay City, eight jobs will be maintained in the manufacture of engine components; $12.7 million of the investment will be spent here.
"This investment is essential in ensuring we can meet the expected high demand for the Chevrolet Volt, Chevrolet Cruze and a small car that will be produced at our Orion Township facility," says Kathleen Dilworth, Flint Engine Operations plant manager.
In early 2011, the Bay City plant will increase its production of connecting rods and camshafts, to support GM's increased production of its Ecotec engine for the Cruze, Volt, and unnamed small car, all focused on fuel economy and advancing electric engine technology.
"These three facilities will continue to play a key role in GM's resurgence and efforts to bring to market vehicles with segment-leading fuel economy," says Dilworth.
The Ecotec is a 1.4-liter engine that gives the Cruze an estimated 42 mpg on the highway, and allows the Volt to extend its range after its electric battery is depleted, creating electricity on the road.
Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Kathleen Dilworth, General Motors
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