Story reveals new engine info
Larry Vellequette’s article on GEMA in the Toledo Blade revealed numerous facts about the company’s current and future engines. GEMA makes the 2.0 and 2.4 liter World Gas Engine, and has started on the Fiat 1.4 liter “FIRE” engine. They currently make 1,800 of the World Engines per day and 400 of the Fiat engines, though plans are to raise production of the latter to 600 per day. The engine is earmarked for upcoming vehicles, in addition to the Fiat 500.
Revealed for the first time is official notice that the “Tiger Shark” engine, to boost output by (possibly) 20% while increasing gas mileage by up to 25%, will be put into production this summer. Chrysler did not confirm any details, but plant manager Kevin Sell said, “We’re retooling on the fly, which is a challenge.”
Some expect the Tiger Shark version to be made in addition to the current 2.0/2.4 as a higher-cost, premium engine. It is expected to have MultiAir and other technologies, with completely reworked heads, fuel systems, and tuning.
Plant workers must have an associate’s degree or journeyman’s card from a recognized trade. There are no transfer privileges into or out of the factory, to or from other plants. The plant includes an automated parts presentation system for higher flexibility and as a poka-yoke. Problem detection and troubleshooting can be done by line workers.
Both quality and scrap reduction have improved considerably since Cerberus and Daimler have departed.
