Mazda6 production launches at Flat Rock

Bryce G. Hoffman / The Detroit News Mazda Motor Corp. officially kicked off production of its new Mazda6 sedan at the AutoAlliance International plant in Flat Rock Wednesday, a rare piece of good news for Michigan's struggling automobile industry. Mazda CEO Hisakazu Imaki made the trip from Hiroshima to mark the launch of the new vehicle, which is expected to deliver a big boost to Mazda's sales in North America. That is also good news for Ford Motor Co., which owns controlling interest in the Japanese automaker and also produces Ford Mustangs at the same plant. "AutoAlliance International symbolizes the strong cooperative relationship that has benefited both Mazda and Ford for many years," Imaki told the 900 workers and 100 invited guests who gathered in Flat Rock for the ceremony Wednesday morning. "Going forward, we will... [read full story]