autoevolution
 

Demand for Four-Cylinder Engines Spurs GM to Make $65M Investment

Increased demand for Ecotec four-cylinder engines used in Chevrolet’s fuel-efficient cars and crossovers, including the all-new 2013 Malibu, is justifying a further $65 million in new investment at plants in New York and Tennessee that will create or retain 163 jobs.

“GM is committed to investing in manufacturing and jobs in the U.S.,” said Cathy Clegg, vice president Labor Relations. “These investments in powertrain manufacturing technology will help us meet the growing needs of our customers for high quality, fuel efficient vehicles - both today and in the future.”

Additional capacity is being added in Tonawanda, New York, for engines used in the Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain crossovers that achieve 32 mpg on the highway and can travel up to 600 miles without having to take a trip to the pumps. General Motors has earmarked $33 million for the investments here that will create or retain 100 jobs.

Meanwhile, in Spring Hill, Tennessee, the engine plant is adding capacity for direct-injection four-cylinder engines that will be the mainstay of 2013 Chevrolet Malibu range when the highly-anticipated model hits the US market.

2013 Malibu units are scheduled to start rolling off the assembly line in early 2012. GM’s first true global product will be sold in about 100 countries on six continents. Chevrolet will begin sales in the United States with the Eco, the most fuel-efficient Malibu ever. It features GM’s 2.4L Ecotec with eAssist technology.  The Malibu will also debut an all-new 2.5L Ecotec engine next summer.

“With gas prices becoming increasingly unstable, investment in new powertrains is vital if GM wants to be competitive,” said Joe Ashton, UAW vice president-GM Department.  “Our customers want vehicles that get great gas mileage and our members have proven they can build innovative products that exceed our customers’ expectations.”
If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
About the author: Mihnea Radu
Mihnea Radu profile photo

Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida.
Full profile

 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories