In another good sign for 2026 new equipment demand, Detroit Diesel announced this week it will add a third shift at its Detroit manufacturing plant.
Detroit Diesel will recall laid off United Auto Workers (UAW) associates and hire more associates to fill the shift.
The UAW cited the 25% tariff on imported heavy trucks and parts as a reason for the labor increase, and calls the move the latest win its members in the union’s fight for reshoring and reinvesting in good union jobs.
“Strategic, targeted tariffs are an important tool in the toolbox to undo the damage of our free trade disaster and bring back good union jobs to the U.S.,” says UAW President Shawn Fain. “Companies like Detroit Diesel, and their parent company Daimler Truck North America, need to step up to reinvest in the workers who make the product and stop laying off American workers while making billions in profit. We applaud this first step in the right direction.”
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DTNA had previously announced in December 2024 a $285 million investment in its Redford Township, Mich., facility, which included plans to add up to 400 jobs at the site.
Matt Pfaffenbach, DTNA vice president of powertrain operations, said at the time the investment was “about more than just innovation; it’s about creating job opportunities and upskilling our workforce to meet the demands of tomorrow’s technology, while helping to stabilize the heavy-duty supply chain.
“This transformative project will propel us into a new era of manufacturing excellence while strengthening our role in the industry and bringing significant growth to the community we call home. It would not be possible without the support of the MEDC, and we are proud to support both our community and our employees through this initiative.”
