General Motors is putting $888 million into its Tonawanda Propulsion plant in Buffalo, New York, to build its next-generation V-8 engines—an investment that will help support nearly 900 American jobs, many of them at risk.
Originally slated for electric vehicle production, the shift back to combustion engines signals GM’s commitment to what families still rely on: powerful, dependable trucks and SUVs. The new sixth-generation V-8s promise better fuel economy and lower emissions thanks to improvements in combustion and thermal management—without sacrificing performance.
“This investment shows our commitment to American workers and American manufacturing,” said GM CEO Mary Barra. The Tonawanda plant has been building engines for nearly 90 years and will now continue supplying the heart of GM’s most trusted vehicles.
As EV sales level off, GM’s decision reflects changing consumer needs—putting practical reliability and family-friendly utility back in focus. While the plant will begin building the new engines in 2027, it will continue making the current fifth-generation V-8s in the meantime.
New York State is supporting the project with nearly $17 million in tax credits, helping preserve hundreds of good-paying jobs in the region. GM’s Tonawanda plant is represented by UAW Local 774.