Lordstown To Build Next Generation Cruze - 21 News Now, More Local News for Youngstown, Ohio -

LORDSTOWN, Ohio - The Cruze lives on.

General Motors is investing 220 million dollars in the next generation of the Lordstown built compact car.

Lordstown autoworkers gathered at their union hall to hear the news that the Chevy Cruze will not be going away after a four year run in 2014.

"The next generation Chevy Cruze will be built right here in Lordstown, Ohio," announced UAW Local 1112 President Glenn Johnson.

General Motors announced a new investment of 200 million dollars for equipment and retooling at Lordstown, and another 20 million at its Parma, Ohio stamping plant. Some of that work in preparation for the next generation is already underway, according to Johnson.

'They are starting to clear space and start making provisions for the investment," Johnson said.

Johnson believes the startup date for the next generation Cruze will come in late 2014.

The union says GM's continued commitment to Lordstown would not be happening without the dedication and cooperation of its members.

"Congratulations to our members, because they stepped up to the plate focusing on things like quality and productivity every day in our plant," said David Green, President of UAW Local 1714.

And for workers like Lisa Phillips of Lordstown it brings new stability and security. "We're really excited to be able to have future products so we can keep our jobs longer," Phillips said.

Those in the industry say the investment in new equipment and tooling is a strong hint of a possible new Cruze model, perhaps a hatchback, station wagon or coupe, but there was no confirmation of that.

And despite a recent sales drop off for the Cruze, Green says there is no concern about the plant's third shift continuing.

"The corporation wants to make sure it's plants are functioning and working at full capacity and that means being on three shifts," Green said.

The Lordstown plant currently employs 4,200 workers.