HUNTSVILLE, Alabama — Navistar Inc. today announced the production launch of its groundbreaking new International S13 Integrated powertrain at the company’s Alabama manufacturing facility, culminating a growth project that has already added 100 jobs at the site.
Navistar officials joined state and local leaders at the plant, located in the Jetplex Industrial Park at Huntsville International Airport, for a ceremony this morning to mark the milestone.
Lisle, Illinois-based Navistar recently completed a 110,000-square-foot addition at the Huntsville Powertrain Plant to support the production of the new S13 Integrated Powertrain components.
“The entire team is excited to embark on this journey and build the remarkable S13 Integrated Powertrain that will redefine the industry and power our path towards a more sustainable future,” said Brandon Tucker, director of operations, Huntsville Powertrain Plant.
Overall, Navistar has invested more than $200 million in the Huntsville plant, which was established in 2008 and employs more than 230 skilled workers in the area.
“Navistar is one of those great companies that makes Huntsville go,” said Mayor of Huntsville Tommy Battle.
“We’re proud that the integrated powertrain is produced in Huntsville and that Navistar has been a strong partner and one of our long-term corporate citizens.”
PLANT IMPROVEMENTS
The expansion project began back in February 2020 and has added many key manufacturing process improvements to the facility in Huntsville.
These include robotic assembly cells, enterprise connected manufacturing devices with advanced error proofing, and automated guided vehicles that allow the plant flexibility when needed.
In addition to new assembly and machining lines, sustainability improvements were made to the plant. Those improvements include LED lighting, a wastewater evaporator to minimize wastewater discharge, and new augers to separate recyclables from rubbish to significantly reduce the waste to landfill.
“Navistar is a world-class manufacturer, and it’s impressive to see the improvements it has added to its facility in Huntsville, blending the best of cutting-edge manufacturing technology with the skills of its talented workforce,” said Greg Canfield, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce.
With the addition, the now 410,000-square-foot Alabama facility has transitioned from a single assembly line to two — one for the T14 Transmission and one for the S13 Engine —along with the incorporation of three major machining lines.
Announced in August 2022, the S13 Integrated Powertrain, developed in collaboration with the TRATON GROUP, significantly increases operating efficiency, reduces operating costs, and provides greater profitability for customers.
