AUBURN HILLS, MI—Esys Automation has received an order for a turnkey automated dispensing system froma major European automotive manufacturer. The multiple robot system will dispense sealants and sound-deadening materials.
DETROIT—Automotive manufacturers have consistently outpaced the global manufacturing average in recent years, according to a global purchasing managers index.
WASHINGTON—Many U.S. companies aren’t counted as manufacturers by the government, but are still heavily involved in the manufacturing of goods, according to a new report from the National Bureau of Economic Research. The prevalence of these “factory-less goods producers”—Apple Inc. is a prime example—suggests that the country might have more manufacturing capabilities than official statistics suggest.
SALZGITTER, Germany—Volkswagen uses a lightweight six-axis robot to install glow plugs at its engine assembly plant here. The robot works directly with people on the line, without any guards.
U.S. manufacturers that source low-cost components offshore often face several challenges. Among the most common are language barriers, lack of timely responses, long lead times and problems with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Another problem is receiving a perfect prototype initially—followed by subsequent shipments of poor-quality parts.
CHATTANOOGA, TN—VW could be closing in on an agreement with the UAW on the formation of an employee works council at the carmaker’s assembly plant here.
WASHINGTON—U.S. factories expanded last month at the fastest pace since June 2011. The Institute for Supply Management said Tuesday that its manufacturing index rose to 55.7 in August from 55.4 in July. That topped the index’s 12-month average of 52.
CLARKSVILLE, TN—Japanese auto parts maker Akebono Brake is planning to invest $100.6 million over the next two years to boost output at its assembly plant here.