GM Produces 3-Millionth Ecotec Engine, Places in Chevrolet Malibu Eco

After General Motors shuttered Saturn, the retired brand’s Spring Hill plant has been busier than ever. Just recently, GM announced that the plant had built the 3-millionth Ecotec engine. The milestone comes two-and-a-half years after the automaker built its 2-millionth engine at the same plant. GM says a $55 million plant investment has kept Spring Hill keeping up with demand for Ecotec four-cylinder engines.

Currently the Spring Hill powertrain plant builds the Ecotec 2.0-liter turbocharged direct-injection four-cylinder engine and the Ecotec 2.4-liter direct-injection four-cylinder engine. These engines can be found under the hoods of the Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain crossovers, as well as the Buick Regal and Verano sedans. The 3-millionth engine will find a home under the hood of an all-new 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco.

“GM’s investment in the engine plant … has created or retained 93 hourly positions at GM Spring Hill,” said Mike Herron, UAW Local 1853 shop chairman, in a press release.

The Spring Hill powertrain plant will begin building the all-new Ecotec 2.5-liter engine later this year just in time to debut in the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu.

Motor Trend