General Motors Co. (GM) has confirmed its robust commitment to sustaining American manufacturing and job creation by unveiling plans to invest over $1 billion in two manufacturing sites based in Flint, Michigan. This substantial financial infusion is aimed at strengthening its industry-leading full-size truck business.
The investment will be channeled towards Flint Assembly and Flint Metal Center, setting the stage for production of the next-generation internal combustion engine (ICE) heavy-duty (HD) trucks. Details about the future HD trucks and their launch timeline have yet to be announced.
This commitment comes as part of a larger GM initiative which, since 2013, has seen more than $30.5 billion directed towards U.S. manufacturing and parts distribution facility investments.
Gerald Johnson, Executive Vice President of Global Manufacturing and Sustainability, highlighted GM’s dedication to its customers and employees. He said, “Today we are announcing significant investments in Flint to strengthen our industry-leading full-size pickup business by preparing two plants to build the next-generation ICE HD trucks. These investments reflect our commitment to our loyal truck customers and the efforts of the dedicated employees of Flint Assembly and Flint Metal Center.”
GM’s investments are expected to enhance the company’s U.S. manufacturing operations, which already comprise over 50 assembly, stamping, propulsion and component plants, and parts distribution centers nationwide. It also underscores GM’s dedication to continue supplying customers with a robust portfolio of ICE vehicles for the foreseeable future.
In 2022, GM reported a 38% year-over-year increase in HD pickup sales, totaling nearly 288,000 trucks. The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado HD also clinched the title of best-selling retail full-size HD pickup.
The $1 billion investment will be divided between the two Flint plants. Flint Assembly is set to receive $788 million for upgrades including a body shop building expansion, general assembly conveyor expansion, and the introduction of new tooling and equipment. Flint Metal Center, on the other hand, is poised to receive $233 million for new stamping dies, press refurbishments, and new equipment.
Mike Booth, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW) Vice President, GM department, acknowledged the company’s investment as a testament to the dedication of its workforce. “When business is booming as it has been for the past decade — due to the hard work of UAW members — the company should continue to invest in its workforce,” Booth said.
GM’s 2023 investment strategy extends beyond these two plants. The company has pledged over $1.7 billion to Flint-area operations, including $579 million for the Flint Engine Operations for the production of the sixth-generation Small Block V-8 engine and $103.5 million for technology upgrades at the Davison Road Processing Center to improve workplace safety and ergonomics.
This substantial financial commitment will not only bolster GM’s production capabilities but also contribute significantly to the economic stability and growth of Flint, Michigan, further solidifying the company’s role as a key player in the U.S. automotive industry.
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