Automotive Assembly

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KARIYA, Japan—Toyota Motor Corp. unveiled to the media last week its historic plant here, which is where the company’s first prototype vehicle was developed in the early years of the Showa era (1926-1989). Called “The Prototype Plant at the Establishment of Toyota,” it has an atmosphere of the early days of the domestic auto industry. The plant will open to the public from July 18.

SAVANNAH, GA—The burgeoning growth in U.S. auto exports may be coming in separate parts. The Wall Street Journal reports that U.S. automakers are exporting more cars this year, even as proposed tariffs on imported vehicles, and key materials such as steel and aluminum, are raising concerns over global supply chains.

If it rolls, floats or flies, lightweighting is one of the biggest challenges facing manufacturers today. The push for new materials is forcing engineers in a variety of industries to explore cost-effective alternatives and develop new assembly processes.

SANTA CLARA, CA—Electric vehicle developer SF Motors has announced a $160 million investment in its recently acquired assembly plant in Mishawaka, IN. The investment will create up to 467 jobs created by 2020, according to Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Technology International.

Daimler AG is developing a sustainable supply chain for its worldwide assembly plants. In particular, the automaker is strengthening enforcement activities that relate to human rights, including the responsible procurement of raw materials.

Engineers at General Motors are using advanced software to tackle next-generation vehicle lightweighting challenges.