Chassix plans new Czech Republic casting foundry

SOUTHFIELD, Mich., March 15, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Chassix, a global automotive supplier of precision casting and machining solutions, today announced plans to establish a greenfield plant in Ostrava, Czech Republic, expanding its manufacturing footprint into Eastern Europe. The facility, which will cast aluminum chassis and powertrain components for passenger cars, will be operational in early 2018 and accounts for an investment of about $50 million.

The Chassix Ostrava facility will cover 140,000 square feet to be filled with the highest rated machinery and equipment. It will be the company's first casting foundry, and third plant in Europe, further vertically integrating the Chassix manufacturing footprint in each of the key automotive regions.

Although initially built to provide aluminum castings, the plant has been designed to support future growth in the lightweighting automotive market, as many international OEMs are located near Chassix Ostrava.

"Chassix Ostrava is aligned with Chassix's global strategy of partnering with our customers to provide tailor-made engineering and manufacturing solutions for safety-critical chassis and powertrain components where our customers need us most," said Doug DelGrosso, Chassix chief executive officer.

The Ostrava facility will be built in accordance with Chassix's world class manufacturing standards and will initially focus on aluminum casting operations, as well as, machining and assembly operations. Chassix Ostrava is expected to generate approximately 350 skilled jobs in the region.

"Working in close cooperation with City of Ostrava and our strategic partners on site, we anticipate flawless completion of the foundry and expect to attract a talented, innovative and collaborative workforce," said Sergi Barbero, Chassix vice president, managing director, Europe.

About Chassix

Chassix had 2016 sales of $1.2 billion. It operates 24 manufacturing facilities in 7 countries, employing more than 4,500 people.

SOURCE Chassix