GM Adds Third Shift to Cruze Production

Chevrolet Cruze seems to be a very popular model as General Motors gives its best to keep up with demand and produce as many cars as needed. In order for this to happen, GM will add a third shift to the Lordstown, Ohio plant, just-auto.com reports. Additionally, the US-based manufacturer said last week that it wants to invest up to $494 million to add 550 jobs at three local plants and start production of Ecotec powerplants which will be also installed on the Cruze.

At this time, the Cruze is available with only two engines, a four cylinder 1.8l DOHC and a four-cylinder 1.4l turbocharged DOHC. The former produces 136 hp at 6,300 rpm and 167 Nm of torque at 3,800 rpm, with the fuel consumption rating yet to be determined.

The smaller, turbocharged unit, develops 138 hp at 4,900 rpm and 200 Nm of torque at 1,850 rpm. For both engines, GM provides a six speed manual transmission, with a 6-speed Hydra-Matic transmission also available.

“Cruze is already a hit across Europe and Asia; and now, it’s coming to America to challenge the status quo,” Brent Dewar, Chevrolet Global brand vice president said in a release back in November when the company officially introduced the car. “Along with the Volt electric vehicle, Cruze is the latest tangible example of how Chevrolet is working on exciting products that range from gas-friendly to gas-free.”

According to preliminary figures, Chevrolet sold around 100,000 Cruzes since its introduction.