Chevrolet lauds 500,000th Duramax engine produced in Thailand

GM Powertrain Thailand, General Motors’ (GM) first diesel engine plant in Thailand and Southeast Asia, produced its 500,000th engine, reaching a production milestone since the facility opened in 2011. It is the first GM facility in the world to produce the four-cylinder Duramax turbo-diesel engine, primarily used by Chevrolet. 

The Duramax engines serve as the heart of many of the Trailblazer and Colorado units on the road today. The engine itself is one of the most important components that the Rayong district in Thailand produces, which are then used for both the domestic and export markets.

Both the 2.5-liter and 2.8-liter Duramax engines are currently used in the Chevrolet Colorado and Trailblazer. These two engines are the most advanced diesel powertrains in the market, according to GM. The 2.5-liter engines feature a fixed-geometry turbocharger, while the 2.8-liter engine features a variable-geometry turbocharger. Both of these engines feature aluminum cylinder heads, an integrated oil cooler, high-pressure common-rail fuel delivery system for increased output and performance, as well as fuel efficiency and durability. They both feature EGR coolers to comply with emission standards capable of maintaining Euro 5 ratings. For improved noise, vibration, and harshness, both engines feature a balancer shaft and a laminated lower oil pan.

The GM Thailand Rayong facility was also recognized for its outstanding efforts for environmental conversation by the Prime Minister at the Prime Minister’s Industry Award in 2018. It was one of two companies in Thailand to receive this award. The facility is part of GM’s 142 manufacturing and non-manufacturing landfill-free facilities globally.

The GM Powertrain Thailand facility continues to play a key part of GM Thailand’s successful growth strategy in the region.