Saturn L-Series Finding Mid-Size Competition Tough
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| The Saturn L-Series is a solid step forward for the alternative GM division, but the competition in the mid-size category is fierce. (Photo: General Motors) |
The Saturn assembly plant in Wilmington, Del., is facing cutbacks due to the slow-selling L series, said General Motors. A 40% decrease in the vehicle production will result in job losses at the mid-sized car plant.
Sherrie Childers Arb, Saturn spokeswoman said that GM will halt production at the Delaware plant starting on May 12 for a period of 4 weeks. An estimated 2,100 of the 2,270 employees will be temporarily laid off.
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| The plant that makes this L200 will temporarily close and then, when restarted, only run at 40% capacity. (Photo: General Motors) |
When employees return to the plant on June 9, GM said assembly line speed will be reduced by 40%. This only allows for 33 cars to be made per hour, as opposed to 57. Childers Arb stated that an undetermined number of workers will be laid off indefinitely.
This is the second time the Delaware plant has temporarily closed its doors. Earlier this year, GM pulled the plug on production in March for two weeks.