DETROIT, Michigan - General Motors says a lack of parts from Japan will force the company to halt production at its pick-up assembly plant in Shreveport, Louisiana.

It's the first time a US-based automaker has slowed production in North America and is caused by disruptions in parts shipments since the March, 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan. Toyota  and Subaru have already reduced production at US plants to conserve stock.

GM's other North American plants are so far unaffected.

GM won't say which parts are involved and promised production would go back to normal as soon as possible.

GM employs 800 people in Shreveport to assemble GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado small pick-ups.

Story courtesy of: www.wheels24.com 29/03/2010