Hyundai engine alliance selects site

United States-based Global Engine Alliance LCC, which is led by the Hyundai Motor Co., said yesterday it had selected Dundee, Michigan, as site of its production facility in North America. The 990,000 square meter (244 acre) plant will build and assemble 1.5 million passenger vehicle engines a year, a Hyundai Motor official said, making it the world's largest producer. The all-aluminum engines will be produced in 1.8-liter (110 cubic-inch), 2-liter and 2.4-liter engine sizes, the Hyundai official said. The joint venture will be operated by Hyundai Motor, Germany-based DaimlerChrysler AG, and Japan-based Mistubishi Motors Corp. Although no time frame was given for completing the plant, Hyundai Motor is scheduled to start using engines produced by it beginningMarch 2004, followed by DaimlerChrysler AG in 2005 and Mistubishi in 2006, the official noted. "The three will closely cooperate to decrease costs in developing engines and enhance price competitiveness," the official said. "The brand recognition and technology of Hyundai Motor will be strengthened." However, the scale of investment has not yet been announced. Officials said detailed information would be available at the time of the official groundbreaking of the plant, likely later this spring. by Kang Byong-chol