American automaker General Motors said late last week that it plans to invest US$45 million at its Indiana aluminium die casting facility in order to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles.
Per the firm, expansion of the Bedford Casting Operations facility will begin immediately, and will augment a previous investment of US$51 million in new equipment. Production at the site is centered on EV drive unit casings for GM’s Chevrolet Silverado EV and GMC Sierra EV, among others.
Phil Kienle, GM vice president of North America manufacturing and labor relations, said in a press release that this was the first step in increasing the plant’s preparation for the rise of electric vehicles.
“Our Bedford operation is one of the leading aluminum die casting facilities in the world and this additional investment is really an investment in the Bedford team and their commitment to excellence. This investment helps build job security for our Bedford team for years to come as we continue to prepare our entire manufacturing footprint for an all-electric future.”
Ray Curry, UAW president, similarly said that the plant is poised to make a greater contribution to GM’s EV production.
“UAW commends the announcement of this investment which recognizes the contribution of UAW Local 440 members. Their skill, training and craftsmanship contribute to the success of this facility, and this investment highlights the role they will play in GM’s future EV growth.”
The Bedford plant boasts a workforce of around 680 laborers and produces engine blocks, transmission cases, drive unit housings, and other components for Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC models. First opened in 1942, General Motors has invested over US$456 million at the plant over the past decade.
