GKN celebrates new facility in Mexico

Automotive driveline components and systems supplier GKN Driveline celebrated the opening of its new facility in Villagra, Mexico, Thursday.

Attended by GKN Driveline Chief Executive Phil Swash, GKN PLC Chief Executive Nigel Stein and the GKN Board, the company's expansion represents a $17.5 million (USD) investment.

The 12,000 square-metre site is expected to be completed in April 2016 and will service Mexico's automotive sector by producing 1 million prop-shafts every year as well as offering a painting line and Constant Velocity Joint machining facilities. The company will attend brands such as Audi, BMW, FCA, Ford, Honda, Mazda, Nissan and Volkswagen.

"As the global leader in driveline technology, GKN is addressing the key requirements of OEMs and their customers," GKN Driveline Americas President Robert Willig said. "Half the world's cars are driven by GKN technology and we work with over 90 percent of the world's automotive manufacturers."

GKN Driveline's all wheel drive technology is already being used in cars, such as Jeep Renegade, Range Rover Evoque and the all-new Volvo XC90.