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GM uses global resources for Cruze diesel
By Chelsea Miller
Lordstown
The Chevrolet Cruze diesel will be built in Lords-town but will be made using global powertrain expertise.
General Motors Co., which is developing a diesel- powered version of the car for the U.S. market in 2013, says its powertrain engineers at its diesel center in Turin, Italy, are working with counterparts in Pontiac, Mich., to develop the engine for the Cruze.
Diesel engines are known for their fuel-efficiency and power.
GM sold 33,000 diesel-powered Cruzes across Europe, Asia, Africa and South America last year alone.
Some analysts say the vehicles could be profitable in the U.S.
“The market for diesel cars in the U.S. is small at present but is expected to grow due to Corporate Average Fuel Economy requirements and expected increases in gas prices,” said Mike Omotoso, powertrain analyst at LMC Automotive. “So far, the German automakers haven’t had any diesel-car competition in North America. GM could do well with it, particularly with younger buyers who don’t have the old prejudices against diesel.”
Diesel costs about 30 cents more per gallon than regular-grade gas, but fuel-efficiency of the diesel Cruze could reach 50 miles per gallon, 8 mpg more than the U.S. Cruze ECO.
Tom Mock, GM Lords-town spokesman, said the plant has completed one validation test-build on the vehicle and will continue testing the vehicles.
He foresees no major problems.
“We’re just excited about it,” Mock said. “It offers the public here in North America ... another variant of our popular car.”