A new satellite production facility in Dunlap, Tennessee for OEM parts projected to employ 150 technicians and workers by the end of 2013. Investment of US$ 15 million will support this expansion of the manufacturing capacity.

The US subsidiary of the German-based development partner and series supplier to the automotive and industrial equipment industries will establish a satellite production facility for OEM parts in Dunlap, Tennessee.

Additionally, MANN+HUMMEL USA has expanded the operations of its Michigan warehouse and distribution center. The company has recently increased the area and introduced production and assembly operations for OEM parts in that facility.

“NAFTA and South America are significant growth markets for MANN+HUMMEL” says Alfred Weber, CEO MANN+HUMMEL. The group plans to increase last year's turnover of 2.18 billion euros to up to 3.4 billion euros by 2018. The Americas are expected to account for roughly 25% of this turnover, whereas in 2010 South America accounted for 10% of turnover and the NAFTA region for 12%. “The new manufacturing site, 150 new technicians and workers and new services will help to better serve the increasing demand of our customers and to turn our growth goals into reality.”

The US vehicle market is recovering, especially the heavy duty segment where growth has been strong. The passenger car production is expected to grow around 10% in 2011. German brands are participating in this recovery since higher fuel prices have driven American customers to place greater importance on the fuel efficiency of their cars. The production of commercial vehicles is expected to reach a 40% growth in 2011. Both the segments are still under the level which they had achieved before the crisis. The industrial equipment segment is expected to grow substantially. A high demand for industrial machinery in combination with an environmental legislation which is being tightened continuously, represent strong business opportunities for MANN+HUMMEL.

MANN+HUMMEL in the USA is present in Portage (MI), Bloomfield Hills (MI) and Fayetteville (NC). Currently MANN+HUMMEL USA employs 400 people, 375 of them in Michigan. MANN+HUMMEL USA produces battery frames for electric vehicles, air intake manifolds, air cleaner systems and fluid reservoirs for the passenger car, commercial vehicle and industrial markets. The company also distributes MANN-FILTER brand air, oil and fuel filter elements for vehicle and industrial applications.