General Motors Shifts Buick Envision SUV Production to U.S. from China
General Motors (GM) has announced a significant shift in its production strategy, moving the assembly of a key Buick SUV from China to Kansas. This decision reflects the company’s commitment to bolstering domestic manufacturing efforts amidst rising tariffs on imported vehicles.
Shift of Buick SUV Production to U.S.
Starting in 2028, the successor to the Buick Envision compact SUV will be produced at GM’s Fairfax Assembly plant in Kansas City. This transition aims to ensure that vehicles sold in the U.S. are manufactured domestically. While models for the U.S. market will shift to Kansas, GM plans to continue producing vehicles for international markets in China.
Impact of Tariffs on Production Decisions
The production shift is primarily driven by the increasing tariffs imposed on imported vehicles. Since 2018, GM has faced a 25% tariff on the Buick Envision. In 2025, the U.S. government instituted baseline tariffs of 25% on most foreign-made cars and auto parts, further influencing GM’s strategy.
Investment in American Manufacturing
GM’s decision to relocate SUV production highlights a dedication to enhancing its manufacturing footprint in the United States. The automaker indicated that this move supports U.S. job creation and builds on its recent investments. Last year, GM announced over $5.5 billion in new investments for its American manufacturing facilities.
Future Plans at the Kansas Plant
Additionally, GM has outlined plans to produce other models at the Kansas City plant. In 2024, manufacturing of the Chevrolet Equinox will commence at the same location, coinciding with the launch of the Chevrolet Bolt. Furthermore, plans for the expansion of Chevrolet Blazer production have also been announced for a GM facility in Spring Hill, Tennessee.
Competitive Landscape
General Motors is not alone in its commitment to U.S. manufacturing. Toyota has pledged to invest up to $10 billion in its American operations over the next five years, emphasizing a broader trend among automakers to enhance domestic production capabilities.
