Mercedes to invest $1.3 billion in Alabama plant for next-gen SUVs
Mercedes-Benz plans to invest nearly $1.3 billion in a major expansion at its Alabama assembly plant, creating 300 jobs and preparing the factory to launch production of its next-generation sport utility vehicles, including hybrids. The new investment comes at a time of dramatic growth for Mercedes’ manufacturing hub in Tuscaloosa County. Output at the 3.7 million-square-foot plant is targeted at 300,000…
Toyota Alabama produces milestone 4 millionth engine
HUNTSVILLE, Alabama – Workers at the Toyota Alabama plant recorded a production milestone Monday – the 4 millionth engine assembled at the Huntsville facility. “It was an exciting day,” said Jim Bolte, president of Toyota Alabama. “This is a testament to our team members – they are dedicated to building high-quality engines. And, whether it…
REHAU opens Alabama technical center to serve automotive industry
CULLMAN, Alabama – European auto parts maker REHAU formally opened its first North American technical center at the company’s manufacturing facility in Cullman, creating a U.S. site to handle research and development functions that had been conducted primarily in Germany. REHAU said the ultra-modern technical center, staffed with 45 engineers, will enable the company to bundle…
Mercedes supplier SMP to open $150 million Alabama facility, creating 650 jobs
MONTGOMERY, Alabama – Mercedes-Benz supplier Samvardhana Motherson Group plans to open a $150 million manufacturing facility in Tuscaloosa County, creating 650 jobs by the fourth year of operation, officials announced today. The new venture, called SMP Automotive Systems Alabama Inc., will manufacture various exterior and interior components for future models produced at the Mercedes assembly…
Auto supplier Kamtek to invest $530 million in Alabama expansion, creating 350 jobs
BIRMINGHAM, Alabama – Auto supplier Kamtek announced plans today to invest $530 million in an expansion of its Alabama operation that includes opening a new aluminum casting facility to meet automaker demands for lighter parts. Kamtek, whose parent company is Canada-based Magna International, says the expansion project in Birmingham will add 354 jobs to its…
Hyundai’s Alabama economic impact: $4.82 billion in 2014
Hyundai’s Alabama auto assembly plant and its supplier network generated a total impact approaching $5 billion in 2014 while also accounting for more than 12,600 direct jobs across the state, according to an analysis released today. The new study by M. Keivan Deravi, dean of the College of Public Policy and Justice at Auburn University…
Hyundai marks 10 years of production in Alabama
MONTGOMERY, Alabama – Exactly 10 years ago today, former President George H.W. Bush took the stage at Hyundai’s new Alabama plant for a splashy grand opening ceremony. Chairman M.K. Chung was on hand for the celebration, along with top state officials. At one point, Korean pop sensation Elec Cookie delivered a rendition of Oh Susanna,…
Honda launches new automated engine assembly line in Alabama
LINCOLN, Alabama – A new $71.4 million engine assembly facility at Honda’s Alabama plant is so advanced that its 250 workers and 92 robots can turn out 1,500 V-6 engines per day, thanks to automated systems that can handle tasks such as assembling and installing pistons. The sophisticated new engine line at Honda’s facility in…
Secretary Canfield to deliver keynote at Alabama Auto Show dinner
BIRMINGHAM, Alabama — Commerce Secretary Greg Canfield will deliver the keynote address at the Alabama Auto Show Industry Dinner on April 30 at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex. The dinner is meant to signify the important role auto retailing plays in the Birmingham area economy. An analysis by the Birmingham Auto Dealers Association pegs that impact at $2.5…
Honda debuts redesigned Alabama-made Pilot at Chicago Auto Show
CHICAGO – Honda showed off its redesigned Alabama-made Pilot family SUV this morning at the Chicago Auto Show. Entering its third generation, the Pilot has received a complete makeover. Honda said the 2016 model has been totally re-engineered and redesigned to offer new technology, advanced safety features, class-leading fuel economy and enhanced utility. “The new…
