While the traditional Big Three car companies are tightening their belts by cutting production and laying off workers, British company Gibbs Technologies is planning on opening a North American headquarters in Michigan. The facility would eventually bring with it 250 jobs. Gibbs makes vehicles that double as boats, including the Aquada roadster, Humdinger SUV and Quadski ATV.
The move means the company will bring the models to the U.S. market, according to The Detroit News. According to CEO Neil Jenkins, Gibbs is currently recruiting workers and is aiming to fill 70 in-house positions ranging from techs to execs before 2008 is out. The company would also require 270 workers at local suppliers and businesses for its operations. Thus far, Gibbs invested over $13 million on upgrading its 37,500-square-foot facility set on two acres in Auburn Hills.
The company got a 10-year, $5.9 million tax credit from Michigan’s Economic Development Corporation along with an eight-year, $15,150 tax allowance.
The first product from Gibbs to be sold in the U.S. would be the Aquada, launching sometime next year. While prices were not announced, the amphibious three-seater is capable of 110mph speeds on land and 40mph in the water and could cost as much as $85,000.
As for a manufacturing base, the search is on. Jenkins says the company will narrow down the search to three or four states, but Michigan is already under review.
