American Axle Inaugurates Thailand Plant

American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings held an opening for its Rayong Manufacturing Facility in Thailand, in the southern part of that country near the Gulf of Thailand. The plant has been in development since 2008, and manufacturers driveline products and systems for automotive and SUV manufacturers in Asia. "We are extremely pleased to celebrate the grand opening of AAM's sixth regional manufacturing operation in Asia," stated John J. Bellanti exec. v.p., Worldwide Operations. "Rayong Manufacturing Facility will allow us to leverage AAM's historic track record of world-class quality, delivery, reliability and outstanding warranty performance while furthering AAM's global expansion strategy in the second largest pickup truck market in the world." American Axle has two manufacturing plants in China and two in India, and engineering operations in China, India, and South Korea. Rayong Manufacturing is a 125,000 ft ², high-volume manufacturer of front and rear axles and driveshafts, as well as propeller shafts. Operations include forging, machining, and welding, with 195 workers. When it reaches full operation, the plant may have up to 275 engineering and manufacturing employees. "Profitable growth in Asia is a key component of our global business strategy," stated Steven J. Proctor, president of AAM Asia. "This new manufacturing facility reflects AAM's commitment to Asia while allowing us to provide advanced-technology products for current and potential new customers throughout the region."