Industry Trends Page 162

Lightweight Electrical Conductors Could Save Billions

Saving money and cutting costs via lower energy bills offers a unique shade to the quest for “greener” manufacturing operations.

Manufacturing Orders, Production Continue to Grow

This marks the 12th consecutive month in which the PMI has grown, and August is the highest reading since April 2011.

Cummins Beats Tesla to the Punch with Electric Big Rig

This time the California automaker synonymous with electric vehicle tech just might be facing a run for its money from an unlikely competitor.

Manufacturing Bucks Employment Trend

While overall job growth slowed in August, manufacturing employment rose by the most in four years.

HUMMER Manufacturer Awarded $2.2B Contract

Indiana-based AM General has an interesting history. After creating the legendary Humvee and HUMMER vehicles, the company lost a huge portion of its business due to the need for greater defenses against IEDs.

Manufacturers Show True Colors During Tragedy

While the generosity stemming from financial donations should always be celebrated, it’s equally inspiring to see manufacturers put their products to use in the best possible ways.

VW to Reprise the 1960s Microbus

VW is breathing new life into its classic “hippie van”.

New Mexico Lands Laser Weapons Deal

In addition to generating engineering jobs for New Mexico, this work on advanced energy weaponry has paradigm-shifting potential.

The Growing Importance of the Anadarko Region

The focus of Hurricane Harvey has, and should remain, on the struggles of those caught in the storm’s path. However, it will also impact oil refining operations, meaning other sites could be counted on to supplement shortages.

Ethiopia Could be the Next China

Featuring the second largest population on the continent, a less expensive labor pool, and a relatively stable government, the country has been attracting new manufacturing partners.