Metaldyne to open two plants in China

Metaldyne today announced that the company is expanding its presence in China by opening two new manufacturing facilities: one in Hangzhou, and another breaking ground in Suzhou this summer.

The Hangzhou facility, called Metaldyne Chassis Manufacturing Hangzhou, will begin producing steering knuckles for a North American automaker in August 2005.

The Suzhou facility will break ground in July 2005, with construction expected to be completed by the first quarter 2006. The first phase of construction includes a 70,000-sq.-ft. facility with 130 employees. The plant will produce powertrain components, including aluminum die cast valve bodies, crankshaft dampers, and sintered engine products. The plant is expected to be operational by March 2006. With future planned expansions, the company expects to increase square-footage to 130,000 and employment to 250 at the Suzhou location.