General Motors’ (GM) Factory ZERO in Hamtramck, Michigan, experienced a Thanksgiving Day explosion that sent one worker to the hospital. The incident occurred Thursday morning when a cylinder exploded inside the electric vehicle (EV) production facility. Fortunately, the worker sustained non-life-threatening injuries, according to the Detroit Fire Department.
The plant, formerly known as Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly, has been a key site for GM’s EV transition, producing vehicles like the GMC Hummer EV and Chevrolet Silverado EV. However, the explosion has raised additional safety concerns at a facility that has experienced several incidents in recent years.
Recurring Safety Concerns at Factory ZERO –
This isn’t the first time Factory ZERO has faced safety challenges. In March 2024, the Detroit Free Press reported that the city’s fire department had responded to at least eight emergency calls at the plant over a nine-month period.
One of the most significant incidents was a three-alarm fire in December 2023, which forced the evacuation of the entire facility and halted production. That fire required 22 trucks and 88 firefighters to manage the blaze, exposing them to hazardous conditions. Despite these challenges, Thursday’s explosion did not result in a fire, according to fire department spokesperson Corey McIsaac.
Union leaders and fire officials have previously urged GM to implement enhanced safety measures at Factory ZERO, citing these recurring incidents. The Thanksgiving Day explosion highlights the need for ongoing attention to safety protocols at the plant.
Factory ZERO: A Hub for GM’s EV Ambitions –
Factory ZERO is a cornerstone of GM’s efforts to lead the transition to electric mobility. The plant, covering 4.51 million square feet on 365 acres, produces several key Ultium-based vehicles, including:
- The GMC Hummer EV Pickup and SUV
- The Chevrolet Silverado EV
- The GMC Sierra Denali EV
- The fully autonomous Cruise Origin
In addition to assembling vehicles, Factory ZERO integrates Ultium battery cells into modules and packs for use across GM’s EV lineup.
The facility has been operational since 1985. It is represented by UAW Local 22 and has a workforce of over 4,500 employees. In 2020, GM rebranded it as Factory ZERO as part of its commitment to a zero-emissions future.
GM’s Response and Safety Plans –
GM has not yet commented on the Thanksgiving Day explosion or provided updates on any changes to safety protocols following this latest incident. The company’s ability to address these recurring issues will be critical as it ramps up production of its electric vehicles.
Video Source: WDIV
 Factory ZERO in Hamtramck, Michigan, experienced a Thanksgiving Day explosion that sent one worker to the hospital. The incident occurred Thursday morning when a cylinder exploded inside the electric vehicle (EV) production facility. Fortunately, the worker sustained non-life-threatening injuries, according to the Detroit Fire Department.){kind=link}