EVANSVILLE, IN—Systems integrator Evana Automation recently integrated eight robots into a new powder coating line for a leading commercial wheel manufacturer. Evana provided bases, guarding and end-of-arm tools for the robots, along with programming and control panels to communicate with the finishing line.
GEORGETOWN, KY—Construction has begun on a new assembly line here for the first U.S.-produced Lexus. Toyota is investing $360 million in the line, which is expected to create 750 new jobs.
KANSAS CITY, MO—Ford began welcoming nearly 1,000 new employees at its assembly plant here to prepare for the launch of the all-new Ford Transit van, which goes on sale in the United States this summer. The company will hire an additional 175 employees over the next three months.
SOUTH BEND, IN—Defense contractor AM General will begin recalling approximately 200 employees for its assembly plant here in early February to meet a big order for Humvees.
TROY, MI—Toyoda Gosei Co., a supplier to Toyota Motor Corp., plans to increase capital spending next fiscal year as carmakers roll out new models. The company expects capital spending to grow 12 percent to $418 million in the 12 months ending March 2014.
ATHENS, TN—Denso is investing another $55 million and adding more than 130 new manufacturing jobs at its assembly plant here to boost production of fuel injectors.