General Motors (GM) announced an $888 million investment in its Tonawanda Propulsion plant on Tuesday. The investment will support the production of sixth-generation V-8 engines used for the automaker’s full-size trucks and SUVs, making Tonawanda the second propulsion plant designated for the production of new V-8s. Production of the sixth-generation engine is slated to begin in 2027.
“Our significant investments in GM’s Tonawanda Propulsion plant show our commitment to strengthening American manufacturing and supporting jobs in the U.S.,” said CEO Mary Barra. “GM’s Buffalo plant has been in operation for 87 years and is continuing to innovate the engines we build there to make them more fuel efficient and higher performing, which will help us deliver world-class trucks and SUVs to our customers for years to come.”
This latest announcement comes as GM continues to balance its transition to electric vehicles with upgrades to its internal combustion engine capabilities. The new engines are expected to deliver stronger performance while improving fuel economy and reducing emissions through advanced combustion and thermal management technologies.
This strategic investment builds on the momentum that General Motors has generated over the last decade. In 2023, the auto giant announced a $500 million investment in its Flint Engine plant for the same engine generation.
Deeply rooted in the Buffalo-area economy, the Tonawanda plant has been in operation for over eight decades and is represented by UAW Local 774. The investment will support 900 jobs. The investment will include new machinery, tooling, equipment and facility renovations.
