The carmaker’s Kokomo Casting and Transmission plants will be adapted to support the production of Chrysler’s World Engine and improve processes for the 62TE transmission program. The expansion will create 399 new jobs, including up to 379 to be filled by employees called back from lay-off status and 20 new positions for supervisory staff.
"As Chrysler Group works to implement the very robust business plan outlined on Nov. 4, 2009, our facilities in Kokomo will play an integral role in achieving those objectives," said Scott Garberding, Senior Vice President and Head of Manufacturing, Chrysler Group LLC. "This investment will keep our facilities at the forefront of innovation and advanced technology,”
"We want to thank the City of Kokomo for approving our tax abatement request and their continued support," Garberding added.
"Over the past several years, Chrysler has shown a continued commitment to investing in Kokomo, allowing our plants to stay on the cutting edge of automotive technology," said Kokomo Mayor Greg Goodnight. "This investment is great news for Chrysler, and it's great news for our community."
The new project brings Chrysler Group’s investment in powertrain operations to a total of almost $1 billion (since 2007).
The World Engine is currently being produced at the GEMA facility in Dundee, Michigan. GEMA produces the 2.0 and 2.4 liter in-line four cylinder units for the Chrysler Sebring & Sebring Convertible, Jeep Compass & Patriot, Dodge Avenger, Caliber & Journey. The 62TE transmission is featured on the Chrysler Sebring, Sebring Convertible and Town & Country, as well as the Dodge Avenger, Journey and Grand Caravan.
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