GM has now built 500,000 Duramax engines in Thailand

GENERAL Motors’ first diesel engine plant in Thailand and Southeast Asia has now produced more than 500,000 turbocharged diesel engines, all of which fitted to Chevrolet Colorado and Trailblazer models.

GM Powertrain Thailand started its operations on September 9, 2011. Of the factory’s output of Duramax engines last year, more than 20% were exported.

GM noted the facility is its first in the world to produce the four-cylinder Duramax turbo-diesel engine.

“The Duramax engines serve as the heart of our award-winning Colorado and Trailblazer. They are one of the most important components that we manufacture in Rayong for both domestic and export markets. Reaching half a million engines is not only an important milestone for the GPS team but also for everyone at GM Thailand,” said Hector Villarreal, president of GM Southeast Asia.

The carmaker said both the 2.5-liter and 2.8-liter Duramax engines now used in the Colorado and Trailblazer are “two of the most advanced diesel powertrains in the market.” The 2.5-liter engine has a fixed-geometry turbocharger while the 2.8-liter mill gets a variable-geometry turbocharger. Both have an aluminum cylinder head, integrated oil cooler, and a high-pressure common-rail fuel delivery system for increased output, performance, fuel efficiency and durability. The engines are also fitted with an EGR cooler for emissions compliance (it is capable of up to Euro5 ratings), plus a balancer shaft and laminated lower oil pan for lower NVH levels during operation.