Non-Surprise announcement by GM today.

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GM announced H3T production plans today...


http://news.windingroad.com/plantsma...on/#more-10882


General Motors Confirms Hummer H3T Production

Written By: Phil Floraday

Filed Under: Plants/Manufacturing, Trucks/Pickups, Chicago Auto Show, New York Auto Show, Hummer, Future Vehicles, Automotive News October 30th, 2007 2:09 PM </B></B>



This seems like a bit of an accidental release to us, but Hummer confirmed production of the H3T pickup today in a press release detailing expansion of the Shreveport, La plant that builds the H3 and Canyon/Colorado.
We don’t yet know which show the H3T will use for its public debut, but Chicago or New York seem most likely since it’s scheduled to hit dealer lots in the third quarter of 2008. Engine choices are unlikely to differ from that of the regular H3, so expect a 3.7-liter inline-five or an optional 5.3-liter V-8 in Alpha trim.
There aren’t any specifics on the truck yet, but a crew cab configuration seems likely based on the spy shots we’ve seen. We do know GM will be investing $73 million in the Shreveport plant to accommodate the new Hummer.
(Click below to read GM’s press release.)

GM Investing $73 Million in Shreveport, La. Truck Plant for Production of HUMMER HT3
SHREVEPORT, La. – General Motors today confirmed that it will invest approximately $73 million into its Shreveport, La. truck assembly plant to prepare the plant for production of the all-new HUMMER H3T.
“GM’s $73-million investment in Shreveport is further proof that the community remains an important part of GM’s manufacturing plan,” said Troy Clarke, GM Group Vice President and GM North America President. “The H3T is unique for HUMMER because it is the brand’s first true pickup. Like every HUMMER model, the H3T delivers capabilities unparalleled in the marketplace and will carve out a new niche in the truck market. I’m happy to say that the men and women of Shreveport will be a big part of this new growth.”
Cal Rapson, UAW vice president and director of the GM Department, also voiced strong support for the project.
“This investment is a testament to the members of UAW Local 2166 for their hard work and commitment to build high quality products,” Rapson said. “UAW members at the Shreveport plant are an important part of the team that is bringing this exciting new GM vehicle to the market.”
Larger than a midsize truck, smaller than a full-size, the H3T delivers attitude, versatility and capability. And more important, with a fully functional truck bed and one of the industry’s broadest range of personalization accessories, the H3T provides a new level of lifestyle functionality to the HUMMER portfolio and will draw new customers into the brand. The H3T is scheduled to arrive in dealerships by third quarter 2008.
“I am delighted that GM has once again chosen to increase investments in Louisiana by expanding operations in Shreveport,” Governor Blanco said. “Louisiana looks to partner with companies interested in doing business in our state who will not only positively impact the region’s economy with their activity, but will also provide quality jobs with good benefits to our workers. Thank you for helping us move Louisiana forward.”
In the last several years, GM has invested approximately $1.5 billion in the Shreveport facility. This investment along with the plant’s annual payroll of $160 million and annual taxes of $4.5 million, demonstrates that GM will continue to be an economic force in the local community and state of Louisiana for years to come.
Shreveport Assembly has built trucks since 1981, beginning with the Chevy S-10. The plant presently produces the HUMMER H3 and Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon mid-size pickup trucks. Shreveport Assembly employs approximately 2,100 employees.