What is Factory ZERO? 

Previously named Detroit-Hamtrmck, Factory ZERO is GM’s plant dedicated to building vehicles. Its new name reflects GM’s vision of cultivating a world with zero crashes, zero emissions, and zero congestion. The factory was built in 1985 in Michigan between Detroit and Hamtramck and has produced over 3 million vehicles. It has since been transformed into a modern, 4.5-million-square-foot factory. 

The upgraded facility is part of GM’s dedication to renewable energy. Factory ZERO will be powered solely on renewable energy by the end of the year. During the remodel, GM recycled concrete waste for temporary roads. The factory also serves as a certified wildlife habitat site for foxes, turkeys, monarchs, and other animals. 

Inside Factory ZERO 

Beyond the doors of Factory ZERO, you’ll find the smartest technology and the most sustainable processes. You can’t miss the “Godzillas” that live inside Factory ZERO. These three-story robots serve as extra, more powerful hands for welding. 

Instead of relying on fixed assembly lines, the factory uses Automated Guided Vehicles to transport materials across the floor. These vehicles provide greater flexibility if employees need to make any last-minute tweaks to their building process. The Automated Guided Vehicles even power up right there on the floor using wireless, invisible charging stations. 

Building the Silverado EV   

While we’re impressed with the inner workings of Factory ZERO, it’s the final product that counts. We are thrilled to announce that Chevy’s inaugural all-electric truck, the 2024 Silverado EV, is one of the first vehicles crafted at Factory ZERO.

The Silverado RST model will offer a 400-mile range, up to 754 horsepower, up to 785 pound-feet of torque, and a max towing capacity of 10,000 pounds. The new Chevy EV ($39,900 estimated MSRP) is predicted to be released in Fall 2023. Features and colors will be revealed later this year. 

To say building the Silverado EV was as much fun as playing video games isn’t far from the truth. Factory ZERO used virtual reality to test out different assembly parts before the parts physically arrived at the facility. The plant also implemented job pacing screens when building the new EV. This latest and greatest technology serves as giant digital instruction manuals to keep employees on track every step of the way. 

We look forward to seeing what advanced, all-electric vehicles Factory ZERO produces next. To learn more about Chevy’s EVs or to reserve your 2024 all-electric Silverado EV, contact our team at Chevrolet of Spring Valley.