The final Oldsmobile was built at the Lansing Car Assembly plant in Michigan, concluding a remarkable chapter in American automotive history that lasted 107 years. Founded in 1897 by Ransom E. Olds, Oldsmobile played a vital role in shaping the automotive landscape, being known for numerous innovations, including the first mass-produced car, the Curved Dash Oldsmobile. Throughout the 20th century, Oldsmobile introduced several industry-first features, such as automatic transmissions and V8 engines, contributing significantly to General Motors' rise to prominence in the automotive sector.

However, the brand struggled to maintain its market share amid increasing competition and shifting consumer preferences in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The production of the final Oldsmobile Alero was rife with emotion, as hundreds of workers gathered to celebrate the end of an era. Employees reflected on their decades of service, while automotive enthusiasts mourned the loss of a once-revered brand that was synonymous with American ingenuity.

The final assembly of the Oldsmobile Alero was not just a moment for reminiscence; it also exemplified the challenges facing the U.S. auto industry during this period, as manufacturers grappled with issues regarding quality, production costs, and globalization. For many, the moment encapsulated the bittersweet feelings surrounding the decline of domestic automotive brands.