Detroit Diesel Recalling Laid-Off Workers, Adding Third Shift

UAW says the move is a win for union members and the US heavy truck industry.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 3:35pm

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The United Auto Workers (UAW) has announced that Detroit Diesel, a subsidiary of Daimler Trucks North America, is adding a third shift, recalling laid-off workers, and hiring dozens more employees. The move comes after the federal government imposed a 25% tariff on heavy truck imports last October, which the UAW says is a win for its members and the US heavy truck industry.

Why it matters

The decision by Detroit Diesel to expand production and rehire laid-off workers is seen as a positive sign for the US manufacturing economy, particularly in the heavy truck industry. The UAW has been advocating for strategic tariffs to protect American jobs and drive investment in domestic production.

The details

Detroit Diesel manufactures diesel engines and powertrains in Detroit for Freightliner and Western Star commercial trucks. The number of workers involved in the call-up was not specified, but the move is related to what the UAW calls "strategic tariff pressures." The UAW members at the Detroit Diesel Axle unit approved their current contract in 2025.

  • In October 2025, the federal government imposed a 25% tariff on heavy truck imports.
  • In the spring of 2025, UAW President Shawn Fain expressed support for the Trump Administration's plan to impose tariffs on automobiles and light trucks.

The players

Detroit Diesel

A subsidiary of Daimler Trucks North America that manufactures diesel engines and powertrains in Detroit for Freightliner and Western Star commercial trucks.

United Auto Workers (UAW)

The labor union representing the workers at Detroit Diesel's Axle unit, who approved their current contract in 2025.

Shawn Fain

The president of the United Auto Workers (UAW).

Haley Stevens

A Democratic U.S. Representative for Michigan's 11th congressional district.

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What they’re saying

“Strategic, targeted tariffs are an important tool in the toolbox to undo the damage of our free trade disaster and bring back good union jobs to the U.S.”

— Shawn Fain, UAW President (cbsnews.com)

“The decision by Detroit Diesel to add a third shift, recall laid-off workers, and hire more employees is great news for working families and for our manufacturing economy.”

— Haley Stevens, U.S. Representative, Michigan District 11 (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This move by Detroit Diesel highlights the impact of strategic tariffs on the US heavy truck industry, as the UAW has been advocating for. It demonstrates how targeted trade policies can help drive investment and job growth in American manufacturing.