General Motors announces a $163-million investment into three plants. Two of them are in MidMichigan.
"This is a new beginning for us. It's a new GM. It's a new adventure," says David Hall, who has worked for General Motors for nearly 40 years.
"I think this will be another 3800 engine. I do. I think it'll be that good," says Johnny Olsey, who has worked for GM for 38 years.
Both employees worked at the recently shut down Flint North, which produced the award-winning and highly popular 3800 engine that went into several Pontiac, Buick, and Chevy models. The 3800 was known for being long-lasting, powerful, and fuel-efficient.
Now, they'll be at Flint Engine Operations. They're excited about producing the new Ecotec 1.4 liter engine.
The plant will begin producing 400 engines a day at the beginning of 2011, 800 engines a day by the end of 2011, and 1,200 engines a day by the end of 2012.
GM is investing $138-million dollars into Flint Engine Operations, resulting in 135 jobs. Bay City's Powertrain plant is receiving $12.7 million, creating and keeping eight jobs.
Bay City Manager Robert Belleman says, "I applaud the management and General Motors for continual investment into the Bay City Powertrain. I also applaud the UAW Local 362 because they've done what needs to be done to make sure they're attractive. They're working with GM to make it possible for the continual investment."
That investment was made possible by the American taxpayer, which politicians say was well worth it.
"At a minimum, we're seeing $10 going back to the American taxpayer for every $1 that we put into the investment into GM and Chrysler," says U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow.
In addition to the Volt and Cruze, GM says the investment will go for another small chevy model.
All three vehicles will be assembled at the Orion Township plant.
Difiance, Ohio, is also receiving more than $12-million for additional production.
