International Motors Plant Sold to Canadian Defense Manufacturer

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The International Motors plant in Springfield, Illinois, formerly known as Navistar, has been sold to Canadian defense and commercial vehicle manufacturer Roshel. The companies signed an asset purchase agreement on Monday, with Roshel set to acquire the operating assets of the Springfield facility and use it as a hub for U.S.-based production of commercial, special, and armored vehicles, with potential to expand partnerships with other major commercial vehicle OEMs.

Why it matters

The sale of the International Motors plant represents a significant shift in the automotive manufacturing landscape in the Midwest. As traditional automakers face economic headwinds, defense and specialty vehicle producers are positioning themselves to capitalize on new opportunities, potentially bringing new investment and jobs to the region.

The details

Under the terms of the agreement, Roshel will acquire the operating assets of the International Motors plant in Springfield. The Canadian company plans to use the facility as a hub for vertically integrated production of commercial, special, and armored vehicles for the U.S. market, with the potential to expand partnerships with other major commercial vehicle manufacturers.

• The asset purchase agreement was signed on Monday, March 31, 2026.
• The sale of the International Motors plant to Roshel is expected to be completed in the fall of 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The sale of the International Motors plant to Roshel is expected to be finalized in the fall of 2026, with the Canadian company then beginning its plans to use the facility for U.S. production of commercial and defense vehicles.