Chevy Volt Engine Plant to Open General Motors Inv...

Chevy Volt Engine Plant to Open General Motors Invests $359 Million in New North American Plant for Small Engine Production General Motors broke ground on the plant that will build the engine for the Chevrolet Volt and many of its next generation, fuel efficient 4-cylinder engines. In direct response to the current economy, there has been a significant shift to smaller cars. According to J.D. Power and Associates, sales of four-cylinder vehicles grew from 27.1 percent in 2004 to 35.7 percent in 2007. To meet the current demand for great performance and fuel economy, GM announced a $359 million investment to build a new powertrain plant in Flint for production of smaller engines. In fact, they plan to double global production of four-cylinders by 2011 - with more than half of the increase coming in North America. The new strategy is highlighted by an all-new 1.4L Turbo engine that will power the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. The 1.4L performs like a larger engine when needed, but retains the efficiency of a small four-cylinder in most driving conditions. A non-turbocharged version will also be offered as the range extender for the Chevrolet Volt electric vehicle. When the battery's energy is depleted, the 1.4L flex-fuel engine activates - generating electricity to power the Volt several additional miles until its battery is recharged.