GM Replaces Over 1,000 Workers With Robots at Detroit Plant Amid EV Slowdown

General Motors has reduced its workforce by more than 1,000 employees at its Factory Zero plant in Detroit, Michigan, while simultaneously introducing 50 collaborative robots, or "cobots." The move comes amid a reported slowdown in demand for electric vehicle (EV) models and a company-wide push to cut costs.

The cobots have been integrated into the assembly line at the Detroit-Hamtramck facility, working alongside the remaining human workforce to attach vehicle body panels. Company officials state the robots are intended to enhance safety and ergonomics for employees and to maintain operational flexibility and competitiveness.

"We've been installing cobots across our manufacturing footprint as part of a broader push to bring more advanced technology into our operations," said GM spokesman Kevin Kelly. "At Factory ZERO, we are implementing them alongside our team—helping improve safety and ergonomics, while keeping our operations flexible and competitive." Kelly added that the affected employees have been temporarily laid off, though he did not specify a timeline for their potential return.

However, labor union representatives have voiced strong opposition. James Cotton, president of United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 22, characterized the robot installations as a cost-cutting measure that directly impacts union members. "Our manpower is being taken away from us," Cotton stated. "From top to bottom, we're disgusted that they have cobots in our plants."

Union leaders also expressed skepticism regarding GM's claims of improved safety. Cotton noted that the union has filed grievances against GM concerning the cobots and highlighted safety concerns with robots operating in close proximity to humans. Historically, the labor hours required per vehicle have significantly decreased since the 1980s, yet union wages have continued to rise. The UAW secured substantial wage increases in 2023 and is expected to pursue stronger protections in its upcoming 2028 contract negotiations.

UAW President Shawn Fain echoed the sentiment, framing the situation as a struggle for workers' rights. "The fruits of our labor have multiplied like never before, but workers aren't reaping the harvest," Fain said. "And if AI continues to be used as an accessory to that crime, it has to be stopped—it doesn't have to be this way—in a just society, when workers create more value, they see more of the benefit."

The introduction of cobots at Factory Zero coincides with a broader trend of slowing EV demand, which has led GM to pause production at the plant multiple times over the past year. Despite these challenges, GM reported a profit of $4.25 billion in the first quarter of 2026, a 22% increase compared to the same period the previous year.