Daimler Truck Invests $285 Million in Michigan Plant
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Daimler Truck North America is doubling down on Detroit, committing $285 million to its Redford Township plant to fuel innovation and create more than 400 jobs.
The investment, supported by state incentives, will modernize the 85-year-old Redford Township plant while expanding its research and development capabilities. The facility, which produces engines, transmissions and axles for Freightliner and Western Star trucks and Thomas Built Buses, currently employs more than 2,000 workers represented by the United Auto Workers. The plant is part of DTNA subsidiary Detroit Diesel Corp.
Matt Pfaffenbach, Daimler Truck’s vice president of powertrain operations, said the investment is designed to support both technological advancement and workforce development.
“This expansion is about more than just innovation; it’s about creating job opportunities and upskilling our workforce to meet the demands of tomorrow’s technology, while helping to stabilize the heavy-duty supply chain,” Pfaffenbach said.
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The Michigan Economic Development Corp. will support the project through a $27.7 million performance-based Critical Industries Program grant. Additional support includes a State Essential Services Assessment abatement worth up to $3.29 million from the Michigan Strategic Fund.
Construction is expected to begin in early 2025, pending final approvals. The expansion aims to maintain current production capacity while meeting growing demand for cleaner, more fuel-efficient engines.
Quentin Messer Jr., CEO of the MEDC and Michigan Strategic Fund Board chair, praised the investment’s significance.
“Michigan’s workforce, supply chain and R&D strength in the mobility sector are the best in North America, and earning this project further cements that leadership,” Messer said.
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