It is the latest decision by Metaldyne to optimize its North American organization in the aftermath of being acquired by Asahi Tec Corp. Asahi Tec Corp. outlined a consolidation plan for the new global auto parts group, one it says is focused on "balancing assets with the changing global market opportunities and the company's expanding Asian businesses." In March, Metaldyne — which designs and produces metal-based engine components, transmission/transfer case parts, wheel-end and suspension components, and axle and drivetrain products — decided to close a Greenville, NC, chassis parts plant. In April, Metaldyne announced the layoff of 145 employees at a suspension components plant in New Castle, IN, as of July 1, due to the expiration of some supply programs. ( Editor's Note: An earlier version of this report mis-stated this detail.