TONAWANDA, N.Y. (WKBW) — The new Chevrolet Corvette is getting rave reviews for its performance and innovation. The car has been racking up accolades after less than a month on the market.
It’s already been named:
- North American Car of the Year
- Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion System
- MotorTrend Car of the Year
- Car and Driver 10 Best Cars and Trucks
People love the car for being American made, but it’s Tonawanda powered.
The brand new LT2 mid-engine is made at the Tonawanda Powertrain Engine Plant in the Town of Tonawanda.
“The LT2 is much more complex, there are many more components, it’s a much more diverse engine,” said Raymond Jenson who works on the assembly line.
“I woudn’t say (it’s) difficult but it’s definitely something our workforce has been able to adapt to and transition to and they do an excellent job day in and day out,” he added. “I’m proud to be a part of 774.”
UAW 774 local president JR Baker says the workforce takes pride in crafting such an iconic vehicle.
“We are very excited about it, our name our brand is stamped on this engine, but the membership deserves all the credit for doing the hard work.”
Engines sold all over the world will include a sticker — at the request of GM’s President Mark Reuss — that will let everyone know the engine is Made in Tonawanda, New York.
“Its very personal,” said Plant Manager Ram Ramanujam. “This is part of our community. It’s an opportunity to showcase the talent we have, the skillsets of the people we have, and just to broaden the Western New York community, as well.”
