China’s auto industry is booming, and one company faced with the challenge of keeping up is Yanfeng Visteon Nanjing Automotive Trim Systems Co. Ltd. Founded in 2010, Yanfeng Visteon develops and manufactures a wide range of interior trim components, including dashboards, cockpit systems and consoles.

 Some manufacturers do more than just practice lean manufacturing. They help other manufacturers achieve it. A good example is Hamilton Caster & Manufacturing Co., which recently helped Cummins Inc. improve lean practices at one of its engine manufacturing plants in South Carolina. 

 Automakers, suppliers, universities and government labs around the world are scrambling to develop self-driving vehicles.  

NISKAYUNA, NY—Siemens company is developing the 3D technology at its research facility here and will use it to produce fuel nozzles and other engine parts starting in 2016.

CLEVELAND, NC—The NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources has recognized the Daimler Trucks assembly plant here as an Environmental Steward.

TOLEDO, OH—The manager of the Chrysler assembly plant here says the facility will build more than a half-million Jeeps next year—making it one of the highest-volume assembly plants in North America.

AIKEN, SC—Diesel engine manufacturer Tognum America has established an apprenticeship program to train skilled workers for its assembly plant here.

FREMONT, CA—Tesla Motors, which has been moving quickly to keep up with demand for its Model S, is getting a $34.7 million tax break that will help it expand production.

SAN ANTONIO—Toyota may boost the capacity of its pickup assembly plant here, as truck sales increase.

DETROIT—General Motors plans to invest $1.3 billion in five manufacturing sites in Michigan, Ohio and Indiana.