GM installs robots at EV factory after 1,300 layoffs

GM deployed FANUC and KUKA robots at its Detroit-Hamtramck EV plant to handle body-in-white welding, battery-module placement, and final-stage paint-touch-ups [Ars Technica]. Installation began on June 10 and the first robot-assisted vehicle rolled off the line on June 20. The automation package replaces 30% of manual station tasks, aiming to increase throughput by 12% and reduce defect rates from 1.8% to under 1.0% [Reuters]. Existing technicians will be retrained to service the new equipment, with no new hires planned. The United Auto Workers warned that the robot rollout “signals a dark factory future” and threatens to erode remaining bargaining power for the remaining 5,000 workers at the plant [Ars Technica]. By automating high-mix, low-volume tasks, GM aims to bring the average production cost of its Ultium battery packs down to $95 per kWh, a target that aligns with the company’s 2027 profitability roadmap. Rivals such as Tesla and Hyundai are already operating fully automated EV lines, and GM’s move narrows the automation gap [Reuters].