Ford is delaying two new electric vehicles, affecting the Oakville plant

The rumor spread last week, but Ford he officially confirmed the news through a press release. The manufacturer has decided to review its electrification plan and delay the production of two new electric vehicles, namely a second van and an electric SUV with 3 rows of seats.

Ford is not alone in revising its plans. In fact, we learned last week that Nissan will be doing the same. Stellantis is also mulling the idea of ​​bringing back a petrol version of its Fiat 500 which has lost significant sales as it was only offered in an electric version. Some manufacturers dedicated to electric cars have financial problems, this is the case of Fisker and Rivian.

Focus on hybrid engines

Ford continues to focus on electrification, but the manufacturer has decided to direct its financial resources towards the development of at least one hybrid powertrain for every gasoline vehicle in its range. Ford made this decision when the market for electric cars has risen and even experienced a decrease in demand worldwide. Not only are mass market car sales down, but so are all the more expensive models. According to JD Power, people are tired of paying high monthly payments, especially with today’s interest rates.

“As the second largest electric vehicle brand in the US for two years, we are committed to growing a profitable electric vehicle business, using capital wisely and bringing the right gasoline, hybrid and fully electric vehicles to market at the right time,” he said. Jim Farley, Ford president and CEO.

Impact on Canada’s Oakville plant

The announcement is not without concern for unionswe use Ford d’Oakville, in Ontario. Ford mentions in its press release that the company reiterates its commitment to its Oakville assembly plant, but postpones the start of production of its 3-series electric SUV until 2027. The new production line is expected to start in 2025, when the production of the Ford Edge ends this quarter as it approaches 2025.

Of course, there will be an impact on the workforce. They were supposed to receive 70% of their wages during the closure, while fixing the assembly line, but union leaders are wondering if this agreement will be renewed until operations resume in 2027. Small businesses Dealers and parts suppliers also received the news. very badly; that decision will surely affect their profit.

Ford’s Oakville plant opened in 1953 and produced many models: the Ford LTD in the 1970s, the Mercury Lynx in the 1980s, the Ford Windstar in the 1990s and, more recently, the Lincoln Nautilus and Ford Edge.

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