GM Invests $1.5 Billion for Midsize Pickups

General Motors recently confirmed that production for the next-generation Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon will remain in Wentzville, Missouri. The company also announced it will be investing $1.5 billion for the midsize pickup models, with $1 billion allotted for the Missouri-based factory.

While the automaker did not divulge details about its upcoming pickup trucks, the investment proves significant as it will provide jobs to the more than 4,200 workers employed at the plant.

“Through this investment, General Motors is making a firm commitment to the state of Missouri, the city of Wentzville, and the GM Wentzville team,” GM President Mark Reuss said in a statement. “This is part of our comprehensive strategy to invest in growth areas and strengthen our U.S. manufacturing base. GM sells more pickups than any other automaker and we have aggressive plans to build on our strengths,” he added.

The investment materialized thanks to the decision by Missouri state lawmakers earlier this year to give GM a $50-million tax break in the hopes of encouraging the company to keep its truck production in the state.

Since the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon were introduced in 2013, both models have collectively sold more than 700,000 units in the United States. Aside from the Colorado and Canyon, the Wentzville plant is also in charge of production for the Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana work vans.

The $1 billion investment exclusive for the Missouri plant is expected to cover upgrades to the factory’s paint shop, body shop, and general assembly area, as well as the acquisition of new machines and installation of conveyors, controls, and tooling.

The planned upgrade for the Wentzville plant is part of a list of plant investments previously announced by General Motors as part of its new four-year contract with United Auto Workers.