General Motors' investment involves upgrades to two stamping presses. The Wentzville plant currently produces GM's full-size vans, known as the Chevrolet Express and the GMC Savana and employs 2,700 workers. GM's Wentzville plant was recognized in the 2004 Harbour Report as the most productive full-size van facility in North America.

Earlier this year, Gov. Matt Blunt signed into law pro-jobs legislation including major litigation and workers' compensation reforms and the Missouri Quality Jobs Act that ties job creation to economic incentives. In mid-June, Blunt met with GM officials in Detroit to discuss Missouri's commitment to the auto industry and job creation.

“It is clear that Missouri is committed to the auto industry and with one of the best work forces in the world, we welcome the new opportunities presented by this investment by GM,” said Blunt. “We want to thank GM for being our partner and look forward to a long and healthy relationship in the future.”

The automobile industry in Missouri employs approximately 36,500 people, making up nearly 12 percent of the state's total manufacturing employment. The average wage for an autoworker in Missouri is $53,117, well above the state average of $34,855.

Missouri has the sixth highest level of auto industry related employment in the United States and motor vehicle manufacturing accounts for 1.8 percent of Missouri's Gross State Product.