US – The investment is for the first stage of a multi-phase project aimed at improving vehicle manufacturing flexibility and logistical efficiency as well as preparing for future technologies. The initial phase at the Alabama plant, which will involve expansion in assembly, is due to be completed in 2018.
“This significant financial investment in our Lincoln facility will enhance Honda's manufacturing efficiency and flexibility to help us meet strong customer demand for our products and prepare us for future opportunities in our industry,” commented Jeff Tomko, president of Honda Manufacturing of Alabama (HMA).
The new investment, which will include a building expansion at the southern end of Line 1, will bring HMA’s total investment to $750m since 2011. More than 450 people have been added to the workforce at Lincoln during that time, bringing the total to 4,500.
HMA currently makes the Odyssey minivan, the Pilot SUV, the Ridgeline pick-up truck and the Acrua MDX SUV, plus the V-6 engines for these models. The 3.7m sq.ft Lincoln factory has the capacity to make 340,000 vehicles per year.
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