Strong demand for its V6 global engine will see Holden’s Port Melbourne engine plant increase production output over the next six months.

The increased demand, totaling an additional 6500 units, comes from parent company General Motor’s plants in Mexico, China and South Korea where the engine is delivered in 2.8-litre, 3.0-litre and 3.2-litre capacity respectively.

Holden also produce the engine in 3.0-litre and 3.6-litre capacities for local consumption in its VE Commodore range, and in 2.8-litre capacity for GM’s European division, Opel. Opel use the engine in its mid-sized Insignia model.

Holden has temporarily relocated four employees from its Elizabeth, South Australia facility to meet the production increase. A further 10 contract positions will also be filled.

Additionally, Holden announced today that it will continue to supply engines for former General Motors offshoot, Saab. The Swedish manufacturer resumed production earlier this week under the watchful eye of its new Dutch owner, Spyker Cars.

The Port Melbourne engine plant was redeveloped in 2003 at the cost of $400 million and is capable of producing up to 240,000 engines a year. With the additional 6500 units announced today, Holden’s engine plant will this year produce 105,000 units.