The Schaeffler Group (Germany, parent of INA and FAG Bearings) has inaugurated production at its newest bearing manufacturing facility, in Irapuato, Mexico.

A greenfield facility, Irapuato will manufacture bearings, engine components and chassis components under the INA and FAG brands.

Attending the opening were not only Maria-Elisabeth Schaeffler and her son Georg, but also Mexico's president, Felipe Calderon Hinojosa; Guanajuato State Governor, Juan Ramirez; Germany's Ambassador to Mexico, Roland Wegener; and an array of other dignitaries which included high government officials and key customers. Bruce Warmbold, CEO of Schaeffler North America, was also in on the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Schaeffler describes building its capacity in Mexico as the key to successfully competing in the North American auto industry, and for business from Mexico's auto manufacturing plants in particular.

Ms. Schaeffler said: "In recent years, Mexico has undergone a remarkably dynamic economic transformation. Today, with one million in annual vehicle sales, Mexico not only represents Latin America's second-largest automotive market, but also constitutes a vital manufacturing base for North America, as two million cars are produced here every year. Mexico's contributions are a key factor in the success of the Schaeffler Group and the company is committed to nurturing this trend."

The facility is Schaeffler's second manufacturing plant in Mexico. The other location is a LuK plant in Puebla.

Covering almost 250,000 square feet, the new Irapuato plant will initially employ 400 workers.

Other North American manufacturing facilities are located in Ontario, Canada; South Carolina; Missouri; and Ohio in the United States. Layoffs are expected to come in the other North American locations as Irapuato ramps up production.