Several trade unions now confirm the rumor about the installation of the production of a new 6-cylinder engine block for Alfa Romeo. It is believed to be an extensive production for the giant engine factory in Termoli, the place where the 4 and 6-cylinder engines will be produced from 2015 onwards for a new D-segment Alfa Romeo (which is to be manufactured in Cassino). Italy can finally look forward to a bigger mid-segment car again, after the 159 and Croma disappeared a while back.
The plant in Rivolta del Re in the province of Campobasso was appointed as a birth place of new important technique by Sergio Marchionne a while back, and with reason as it turns out. The CEO pronounced these words during a visit to the factory last month. The 3.000 employees in Termoli are relieved due to this confirmation ahead of the official announcements on May 6th. There will also be a production increase because of the Jeep Renegade and Fiat 500X which need engine supplying. At this moment the plant is working way below its capacity and is mainly manufacturing 1.2 and 1.4 (MultiAir) engines with 8 and 16 valves.