GM invests US$ 449-million for next-generation electrification

In preparation for the next-generation of electric vehicles and advanced battery technologies, General Motors will invest US$ 449-million to upgrade manufacturing processes at Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly and Brownstown Battery Assembly plants.

"General Motors is
committed to building award-winning products and developing technologies in America, which helps to grow our economy from a resurgent auto industry," said Gerald Johnson, GM North America Manufacturing Vice-President. "These investments will help the next-generation Chevrolet Volt build on its position as the leader in electrified propulsion."

The investment, announced at the Automotive Press Association, is the largest to date at both facilities and includes US$ 384-million at Detroit-Hamtramck fornew Body Shop tooling, equipment, and additional plant upgrades to build the next generation Chevrolet Volt and two future products. This brings GM's total investment at Detroit-Hamtramckto more than US$ 1-billion over the last five years.

GM's US$ 65-million investment at its Brownstown Battery Assembly will support the next-generation of lithium-ion battery production and future battery systems.

"Michigan is poised for even greater global leadership in automotive innovation," said Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder. "This significant investment by GM will harness the power of our state's unparalleled assets, such as its talent, world-class universities, and research and development capabilities."

"While challenges remain throughout the auto industry, this announcement shows that it is looking to the future, and the resulting technological advancements will strengthen our economy and benefit our environment," added Snyder. "This is great news for Detroit, the region and all of Michigan."

"This is a significant investment by General Motors and it helps to further position Detroit as a leader in the innovative technologies of tomorrow," said Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan. "We anticipate that the upgrading of the Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Plant and the production of GM's next-generation electric vehicles will create well-paying jobs for Detroiters. As we continue to bring real change to our city, we need partners like GM who are committed to investing in our future."

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