DETROIT—Working with robotics manufacturer FANUC, networking giant Cisco, and hardware maker Rockwell Automation, GM has installed a “mother brain” at its Lake Orion assembly plant. The system accepts data flowing to and from robots, conveyors, temperature sensors and other devices and sends that information to a cloud network. That enables plant managers and supplier technicians to monitor assembly technology and prevent mishaps.

Enhanced process-control, preheating and data-gathering capabilities make vibration welding an even better choice for joining thermoplastic parts.

State-of-the-art screwdriving technology is enabling automakers to maximize their use of friction-drilling screws.

Accurate and timely performance data is just as important to manufacturers as the latest welding technology, super-strong adhesive or unique-thread fastener.

Transmission manufacturing requires several high-precision tasks. This is not news to Škoda Auto, a Czech automobile manufacturer founded in 1895 as Laurin & Klement.

DEARBORN, MI—Some 52,700 UAW workers will get an average profit-sharing bonus of $9,300 in March, following the Ford Motor Co.’s announcement that it earned a record $7.4 billion profit in 2015.

HUMBLE, TX—It’s back to the future—and back into production—for the DeLorean. The sleek sports car, immortalized in the “Back to the Future” movies, is going to start rolling out of an assembly plant here next year after a 34-year break, the DeLorean Motor Co. announced Wednesday.

DETROIT—Convinced that the American auto market has fundamentally changed, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is prepared to stake much of its future on the success of its Jeeps and Ram pickups. The company outlined a strategy that calls for sweeping changes to its North American production footprint, including a plan to walk away from building small and midsize sedans to free up capacity that can be used to make more sport utility vehicles and trucks.

ARLINGTON, TX—When James Humes began working at GM’s assembly plant here, many of his colleagues weren’t even born yet.

ANDERSON, SC—Workers at an automotive sensor factory here are wearing smart watches to alert them to production faults on the assembly line.