TONAWANDA, N.Y. — General Motors is solidifying its commitment to Western New York.
The car company announced its Powertrain plant in Tonawanda will be building new engines GM's new 2020 Chevrolet Silverado HD.
The engines are able to be made at the Tonawanda plant because of a nearly $300 million investment General Motors made into the plant back in 2016.
"They have other engine plants, but they know the incredible work force we have in Tonawanda. The efficiencies that they have there-- for what really is one of their signature lines with their heavy duty truck here in WNY. It guarantees good paying jobs in our region for a long time to come," said Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz.
“Heavy-duty trucks are an important part of our business, and Silverado HD customers demand strong performance from their trucks,” said Ram Ramanujam, Tonawanda Engine plant director. “The GM-UAW Local 774 team at Tonawanda is passionate about building the world’s best propulsion systems, and we are excited for Chevrolet heavy-duty truck owners to experience our product.”
Officials at the plant say these engines will also be used in a 2020 GMC Sierra truck.
Production of the new engines is expected to start in April.