First Cadillac BLS Rolls of Production Line

Press Release

Cadillac Manufacturing Expands to Europe

Cadillac opened another chapter in its history recently (February 6) when the first production BLS, a luxury mid-size sedan, rolled off the assembly line at GM’s manufacturing plant in Trollhättan, Sweden.  BLS represents the continuing growth of Cadillac in Europe and other markets outside Cadillac’s traditional home market in North America.

The front-wheel drive BLS offers expressive design, outstanding ride and acoustic comfort. It also marks a new era in the brand’s history by including Cadillac's first turbo-diesel variant, complete with a maintenance-free diesel particulate filter. Like the gasoline versions (175, 210, and 255 bhp), the turbo-diesel (150 bhp) also offers the dynamic driving performance that customers have come to expect from Cadillac.

“The BLS was developed for luxury customers, with particular attention to the demands of European and other international markets,” said Jim Taylor, Cadillac General Manager. “BLS is an important addition to our Cadillac portfolio, it provides a critical entry on which to grow our business in key international markets.”

The event was also historic for the 56-year-old GM manufacturing site, which until now has produced only Saab vehicles.  The entire manufacturing process, from sheet metal pressing and body welding to powertrain installation and final assembly, will be carried out there.  The simultaneous production of both Cadillac and Saab in the facility was made possible by a 325 million Euro investment program begun there in 2000. Included in this development were extensions to the press shop, body shop and final assembly areas, improvements to materials handling systems and the phased introduction of a new paint shop.

“In such a global and highly competitive environment as the automobile business, the Trollhättan plant must use its flexibility and ingenuity to compete successfully as an efficient and high quality manufacturing location,” said Plant Director Lars Danielson.  “We are now fully integrated not only with General Motors in Europe, but also General Motors operations and plans throughout the world.”