Made in Michigan

G.M. will make Volt batteries in Michigan, but the automaker isn't saying exactly where.

Lindsay Brooke of The New York Times reports:

G.M.’s announcement comes three weeks after Michigan’s legislature approved tax incentives worth up to $335 million aimed at attracting advanced-battery manufacturers to the state. The credits will be apportioned depending on production volume and other factors. Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm is expected to sign the legislation.

“This is very important, and it’s beyond symbolic,” said Brett Smith, speaking of the plant’s significance. Mr. Smith, assistant director for manufacturing, engineering and technology at the Center for Automotive Research in Ann Arbor, Mich., explained that it is critical for the Detroit Three automakers to create an infrastructure in the United States for volume production of batteries for electric, plug-in electric and hybrid vehicles.

A future without G.M.?

Bill Vlasic of The New York Times asks the obvious question: Will Ford and G.M. survive?

"Neither company appears in immediate danger of failure. But analysts say Detroit is in a race against time.

“Things are pretty bad, and the river is getting deeper, faster and wider,” said David Cole, chairman of the Center for Automotive Research in Ann Arbor, Mich. “The question is, can they get to other side before the cash runs out?”

American automakers have decided — critics would say, belatedly — to shift production from trucks and sport utility vehicles to smaller, more gas-efficient cars, including hybrids. But it takes time to switch equipment for production. And it is unclear whether the automakers have sufficient cash to remain solvent until their new vehicle lines are ready for customers."

Danger: Good News!

Who says nothing good ever happens to Flint?

Joe Lawlor of The Flint Journal reports:

"General Motors confirmed that it intends to make Flint the manufacturing home of the engine for the much-touted, battery-powered Chevrolet Volt, according to paperwork filed with the city.

"The Volt, hailed for its potential to reduce the world's reliance on fossil fuels, would run entirely on a battery charge for about 40 miles and use a gasoline engine -- apparently to be built in Flint -- to keep the vehicle powered for longer trips.

"The engine for the Volt would be built at a new plant announced by GM Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Rick Wagoner in June. The new documents indicate the facility would be located on Van Slyke Road adjacent to Flint Engine South and Flint Truck Assembly."