German automobile supplier Selzer will build its first North American plant later this year at the Auburn Technology Park West in Auburn, Ala.

The $22 million plant will employ 80 workers and produce transmission components for a dual-clutch system. Dual-clutch systems allow gear changes without a disruption of power to the engine, improving speed and providing better gas mileage.

The 65,000 square foot plant could accommodate other projects, with more people hired if Selzer wins other contracts.

Auburn, which has landed numerous other automobile suppliers in recent years, was selected from a pool of 27 possible locations, said Hans-Joachim Selzer, authorized signatory of the Selzer Cos.

“At a time when many cities nationwide are losing industry, we are fortunate to be able to announce the location of a new business with such significant capital investment and job creation,” said Bill Ham Jr., mayor of Auburn. “Over the last several months, we have enjoyed getting to know the Selzer family during the recruitment process and we look forward to welcoming them to Auburn.”

Selzer is a precision engineering firm that also makes metal components and subassemblies for gearboxes and professional electric power tools.

The Driedorf-Roth, Germany-based company employs more than 600 workers at plants in Germany and Brazil. The Auburn plant is the first U.S. venture for Selzer Fertigungstechnik GmbH & Co., the automotive firm’s parent company.

State officials said Selzer is the 58th German-based manufacturer to locate a plant in Alabama. The Auburn-Opelika area is home to several auto suppliers, including Stahlschmidt & Maiworm, Hoerbiger and Benteler Automotive Corp., all with German roots.

“Alabama is making such tremendous strides, and this announcement helps us continue our progress,” said Alabama Gov. Bob Riley. “Selzer could have gone virtually anywhere in the nation, but they chose Alabama and we are proud to be its partner in bringing more economic opportunities to our citizens.”

Construction on the Selzer plant will begin this year, with completion expected in early 2009. The company is already using the Auburn Center for Developing Industries for its operations until the plant is completed.

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