DMAX, a diesel engine joint venture between General Motors and Isuzu, will spend US$60m to make design changes that meet future emissions requirements, retaining around 500 jobs, the US partner said in a statement.

Established in 1998, DMAX has produced almost 1.6m engines since opening in 2000. GM owns 60% and Isuzu 40% of the JV that makes the Duramax diesel for heavy duty trucks. 

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“Today’s announcement demonstrates GM’s commitment to continuously invest in technologies that reduce the impact of our vehicles on the environment, while maintaining performance attributes required by customers in the areas of towing and hauling loads,” said GM North America manufacturing manager Christine Sitek.

DMAX has spent $760m at the factory since 2000.

“This joint venture is a great example of what can be achieved with a successful global partnership, and I extend my appreciation to the leadership of Isuzu for its commitment to the success of this operation,” Sitek said.

DMAX makes the proven Duramax 6.6-litre turbodiesel used in the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra.

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The engine is also available in the Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana full-size vans.

“The successful partnership between GM, Isuzu and [local union] continues to bring new investment dollars to our plant,” said Maho Mitsuya, DMAX president and chief operating officer. “The Duramax diesel’s performance is renowned in the industry, and these updates to improve our emissions will make it that much better.”

A Reuters reported noted GM had said a 2.8-litre turbodiesel would be available next year for the 2016 mid-size pickup trucks, the Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon.

It is also looking at diesel options for the light duty versions of the Silverado and Sierra, but has not announced any plans.