GE Transportation has begun building locomotives with a mixed-model moving assembly line at its plant in Contagem, Brazil. Unlike traditional stationary product lines, the moving line is designed for workers to assemble different locomotive configurations on the same line as the units slowly move down the track. The new system is aimed at boosting productivity and optimizing the workforce. In particular, the assembly line will cut lead time by about 20 percent, reduce inventory by $1.75 million and create more space savings in the factory, GE officials said in a press release.
Fluor Corp. and its joint venture team have been selected as the preferred proponent to design, build, finance, operate and maintain the Los Angeles International Airport automated people mover project. The project includes six stations that will connect a new consolidated rental car facility, intermodal transportation facilities, expanded airport parking and Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority's transit services to the airline terminals. Design and construction are scheduled to begin later this year, with passenger service beginning in 2023. The LAX Integrated Express Solutions (LINXS) development team is composed of Fluor, Balfour Beatty, Hochtief, ACS and Bombardier. Fluor also will lead the design-build team, which includes LINXS Constructors, Balfour Beatty, Flatiron and Dragados.