General Motors (GM) is expanding production of its sixth-generation V8 engine by adding a third plant in St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada. The facility will supply redesigned trucks and SUVs, with production slated to begin by 2027.
General Motors (GM) is doubling down on internal combustion engines despite the global shift toward electrification. The automaker has announced a third production site for its all-new sixth-generation V8 engine, adding a plant in St. Catharines, Canada, to existing facilities in Flint, Michigan, and Tonawanda, New York.
Where is the new V8 plant and why Canada?
According to a report by Carscoops, the St. Catharines Propulsion plant in Ontario, Canada, will be converted from producing V6 engines and transmissions to manufacturing the new V8. The choice leverages existing infrastructure and skilled labor while diversifying production geographically.
Why does GM need three plants for one engine?
The answer lies in anticipated demand. GM is preparing to launch new generations of high-volume models such as the Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, and Cadillac Escalade, all of which will rely on the sixth-gen V8. Spreading production across three facilities ensures supply chain resilience and helps meet expected demand for trucks and SUVs in North America and export markets like the Gulf.
Investment and timeline details
GM has not disclosed the investment amount for the Canadian plant, but it confirmed production will start by 2027. The Flint plant previously received a $1 billion investment to prepare for the new engine. The Tonawanda facility is also being retooled.
What do we know about the sixth-gen V8?
The new engine is a clean-sheet design, not an evolution of the fifth-gen LT1/LT2. It is expected to improve fuel efficiency while maintaining the power and torque GM V8s are known for. Technologies like cylinder deactivation and direct fuel injection are likely. Full specifications have not been released.
Does this mean GM is backing away from EVs?
No. The move reflects a dual strategy: continuing to develop profitable internal combustion engines for trucks and SUVs while expanding EVs via the Ultium platform. GM believes demand for V8s will persist for years in markets like North America and the Gulf, where large vehicles are popular.
When will these engines reach Saudi Arabia and the Gulf?
GM trucks and SUVs typically arrive in Gulf markets 6–12 months after their North American launch. Expect the new-generation Silverado, Tahoe, Yukon, and Escalade in Saudi Arabia and the UAE by 2028. Prices for base models are estimated to start around SAR 180,000 (≈ USD 48,000), with high-end Denali and Escalade trims reaching SAR 350,000 (≈ USD 93,000).
Key facts
- New plant location: St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
- Other plants: Flint (Michigan) and Tonawanda (New York)
- Engine generation: Sixth-generation V8 (all-new design)
- Investment in Flint: USD 1 billion
- Production start in Canada: 2027
- Target vehicles: Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Cadillac في الموتر Escalade, and other trucks/SUVs
- Estimated Gulf arrival: 2028
- Estimated starting price in Saudi Arabia: SAR 180,000 (≈ USD 48,000)
FAQ
Will GM stop producing V8 engines soon?
No. GM is investing heavily in the sixth-generation V8, indicating it will remain a key part of the lineup for years, especially in trucks and large SUVs.
How much will the 2028 Chevrolet Silverado cost in Saudi Arabia?
Official pricing hasn’t been announced, but estimates suggest the base V8 model will start around SAR 180,000, with higher trims reaching SAR 250,000 or more.
What’s the difference between the sixth-gen V8 and the fifth-gen?
The sixth-gen is a completely new design, not an update. It is expected to be more fuel-efficient and lighter while maintaining high power and torque. Full details are pending.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will GM stop producing V8 engines soon?
No. GM is investing heavily in the sixth-generation V8, indicating it will remain a key part of the lineup for years, especially in trucks and large SUVs.
How much will the 2028 Chevrolet Silverado cost in Saudi Arabia?
Official pricing hasn't been announced, but estimates suggest the base V8 model will start around SAR 180,000, with higher trims reaching SAR 250,000 or more.
What's the difference between the sixth-gen V8 and the fifth-gen?
The sixth-gen is a completely new design, not an update. It is expected to be more fuel-efficient and lighter while maintaining high power and torque. Full details are pending.
Sources
- Carscoops — GM’s Next-Gen V8 Just Picked Up A Third Plant, And It’s Not In The States
