GM Boosts Ecotec Engine Production

General Motors Co. is adding a second shift to boost output of 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Ecotec engines by an unspecified volume at its plant in Spring Hill, Tenn.

The factory supplies naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engines for the Chevrolet Malibu and Impala sedans, a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder powerplant for the Buick Regal and Verano sedans, and a 2.4-liter four-banger for the Buick LaCrosse sedan and Chevrolet Equinox crossover.

GM says it will phase in the second shift throughout 2014 but add most of its 100 additional workers in January. The plant, which also assembles the Equinox, employs about 1,900 people.

In August, GM announced plans to invest $167 million in the Spring Hill complex to prepare it for two future midsize vehicle programs.