Today we stand before the Stellantis Mount Eliott Tool and Die. This Detroit plant has a rich history tied to the automotive industry. Let’s delve into its past.
The Stellantis Mount Eliott Tool and Die began its journey in 1938. The Briggs Manufacturing Company built it. This was a time when Detroit was revving up as the world’s automotive capital.
In 1956 Chrysler purchased the plant. It was then known as the Outer Drive Stamping Plant. For many years it stamped out automotive parts.
The facility transformed in 1983. Vernor Tool & Die closed. Its operations moved to this location. The plant was renamed Outer Drive Manufacturing Technology Center.
Later pilot operations and advanced stamping manufacturing engineering moved. These moved to Chrysler Headquarters in Auburn Hills. The facility received its current name: Mt. Elliott Tool and Die.
The Stellantis Mount Eliott Tool and Die played a crucial role. It produced stamping dies and fixtures. These were essential for automotive manufacturing. One notable project involved creating the dies for the 2020 Jeep Gladiator.
After that project the plant was idled in 2018. It appeared destined for closure. However, its story did not end there.
In April 2024 METD HOLDINGS purchased the plant from Stellantis. A new chapter began.
Today the Stellantis Mount Eliott Tool and Die houses several companies. These include LAEPPLE AUTOMOTIVE, IACMI, SSG, NRTC AUTOMATION and IGAM.
Laepple Automotive is investing $78.8 million in the facility. The goal is to repurpose it into a modern stamping plant. This will produce automotive parts. This investment is expected to bring 173 jobs to Detroit.
The facility has 725,000 square feet of floor space on 30.29 acres. At its closure, the plant employed 245 workers represented by UAW Local 212.
The Stellantis Mount Eliott Tool and Die stands as a testament to Detroit’s automotive legacy. It has adapted through many changes. It continues to contribute to the industry’s evolution. Its story reflects the resilience and innovation of Detroit’s manufacturing sector. From Briggs Manufacturing Company to Stellantis and now with Laepple Automotive the plant remains a vital part of the automotive landscape.