Chrysler Invests $114 Million in Trenton Engine Plant

American auto giant Chrysler decided to make a $114 million investment in the Trenton, Michigan, plant to support increased production of the Pentastar engine, a move that is expected to generate some 268 new jobs. The money will be used to re-purpose about one-fifth of the Trenton North Engine Plant, which ceased operations in May 2011.

Trenton South launched the new Pentastar engine in March 2010, which is now available in 10 Chrysler Group vehicles including the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Avenger, Dodge Grand Caravan, Dodge Journey, Dodge Charger, Dodge Challenger, Dodge Durango, Chrysler 200, Chrysler 200 Convertible and Chrysler Town & Country.

"As Chrysler Group moves to replace seven V-6 engines with the new Pentastar V-6, it has become necessary to add capacity on core components in order to meet the production demands of this new engine," said Brian Harlow, Vice President and Head of Powertrain Manufacturing. "This investment has also given Trenton North, which has been building engines for nearly 60 years, a new lease on life."

"We want to thank the City of Trenton for approving our tax abatement request and their continued support," said Harlow.

"On Monday, June 13, the Trenton City Council and I approved Chrysler Group LLC's Industrial Facilities Exemption for a $114 million manufacturing project in its North Plant," said Trenton Mayor Gerald Brown. "My administration worked very hard to come to an agreement that will provide the City with long term stability at the site, additional jobs and tax base improvements while further enhancing the relationship that Trenton and Chrysler have enjoyed since the 1950s. Trenton truly is Chrysler Town and we are proud of it."