Automotive Forums

General Motors announced today it will invest $170 million in its Ypsilanti transmission facility for additional capacity to produce its family of Hydra-Matic six-speed rear-, and all-wheel drive automatic transmissions. “This new investment in the Ypsilanti powertrain facility demonstrates GM’s confidence that UAW Local 735 members build a world-class quality six-speed RWD transmission,” said Richard Shoemaker, UAW vice president and director of the GM Department. The Hydra-Matic 6L50 from Ypsilanti Transmission Operations will debut in certain 2007 Cadillac STS rear- and all-wheel drive performance sedans and the V8-powered SRX crossover SUV. The 6L50 also uses the Driver Shift Control feature, which allows the driver to shift the transmission like a clutchless manual gearbox.

“The six-speed automatic is a best-of-both-worlds scenario, delivering great fuel economy and improved performance,” said John Buttermore, GM Powertrain vice president of manufacturing. “It is almost like having two transmissions in one – the high numerical first gear provides tremendous off-the-line acceleration, but the transmission is able to use the six gears to evenly distribute the torque and settle at an overdrive gear that helps deliver great fuel economy.

“On behalf of GM, I commend the United Auto Workers, UAW Local 735, and local and state leaders for helping to provide the business case and securing the necessary incentives to support this investment in six-speed transmission production.”

“This new investment in the Ypsilanti powertrain facility demonstrates GM’s confidence that UAW Local 735 members build a world-class quality six-speed RWD transmission,” said Richard Shoemaker, UAW vice president and director of the GM Department.

“Six speed transmissions improve fuel economy and engine performance, and we’re pleased that UAW Local 735 members will be expanding production of these important components for GM cars and trucks.”

“Technology is the driving force of Michigan ’s automotive future,” Governor Jennifer M. Granholm said. “We are pleased to have worked closely with General Motors to bring this very high-tech development to Michigan and retain jobs in Ypsilanti.”

“From both a social and an economic standpoint, Ypsilanti Transmission Operations is a vitally important part of our community, and we were pleased to support the incentives necessary for preserving jobs and making the plant competitive for future production,” said Ypsilanti Township Supervisor Ruth Ann Jamnick. “This cooperation benefits GM and the YTO workforce, as well as the citizens of Ypsilanti Township.”

Kingsley P. Wootton, GM Powertrain Ypsilanti Transmission Operations plant manager, said the investment helps ensure that the plant will continue to be an important part of the community. “Our strong partnership with the UAW and Local 735 resulted in an innovative work agreement that helped usher in a new era of competitively produced world-class six-speed transmissions.”

“A new team concept arrangement was developed for six-speed production, which includes hourly members of UAW Local 735 and salaried employees. The team concept includes cohesive teams of four to six members, with a designated leader that *** the team, ensuring an efficient operation. Team members work with engineering personnel to provide input on product design and its impact on manufacturing, with a goal of ‘zero defects.’ A heightened safety initiative, with a workplace goal of ‘zero incidents,’ is also included in the team concept arrangement.”