FCA invests $74.7M to retool Trenton engine plant

May 4, 2016 – FCA US says it will invest $74.7 million in its Trenton Engine Complex in Michigan to retool the north plant to produce the next generation four-cylinder engine, retaining 245 jobs. The new engine will be assembled on the flexible production line that was installed in 2012.

The Auburn Hills, Mich.-designed engine will begin production in the third quarter of 2017, says the automaker, adding that the engine will provide increased power, while improving fuel economy and reducing CO2 emissions.

“This investment in our flexible production line at Trenton North will allow us to quickly ramp up North American production of this new fuel-efficient engine,” said Brian Harlow, vice president – manufacturing, FCA North America.

When production of the new four-cylinder engine begins next year, it will replace the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6, which is currently assembled on the flex line at Trenton North. Pentastar engine production will continue at Trenton South, Mack Avenue Engine, and Saltillo South.

Since 2009, FCA US has announced investments of more than $2 billion in Michigan and added nearly 15,600 new jobs, bringing total employment in the state to 35,314 people.