No Wonder the GM Bailout is So Expensive…
Published: March 10th, 2009
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From WNEM.com: “GM Installing Automated Line At Ohio Plant, Union Agrees To Concessions To Help Ford Stay Competitive With GM, Chrysler”:
LORDSTOWN, Ohio — Despite bankruptcy reports, GeneralMotors said it is moving forward with a $350 billion investment at its Lordstown, Ohio, plant.
The automaker will install 840 robots ahead of next year’s production of the Chevy Cruze.
Local union leaders said the project gives workers a reason for hope. About 1,100 union workers are employed at the plant.
Meanwhile, the UAW said it has finish voting Monday on concessions to help Ford.
More by Robert Farago
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I think another thing worth noting is the reliance on robots. Not exactly lean production (complex, high tech, costly to buy and maintain) and previous attempts to automate to this extent have resulted in lower quality and lots of down time.
Sure John (JK43123), they know the difference. The T is bigger than the B is bigger than the M when lobbying dollars get thrown their way.
840 robots is a lot of machinery. My guess is that they're replacing some Roger Smith era equipment. The trouble with taking gov't money is that every move you make, even normal day to day business operations like advertising and equipment purchases, is under the microscope.
Hmm Lordstown Ohio plant? Robots to build a small GM car? OMG! It is the government subsidized 21st century re-incarnation of the Vega!