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Ford Slows Down F-150 Electric Truck Production & Cuts Jobs
January 19, 2024
Ford, the American automaker, recently decided to scale back the production of its F-150 Lightning, the electric pickup truck. The decision comes in response to a decline in demand.
Starting April 1, the Rouge Electric Vehicle Center, which is responsible for assembling the electric vehicle (EV) pickups, will operate on a single shift instead of multiple. This change will undoubtedly affect the workforce. Around 1,400 workers will experience a shift in their roles.
Half of those impacted, approximately 700, will be transferred to the Michigan Assembly Plant. The other half might find themselves working within other roles in the Rouge complex or possibly in different Ford facilities located in southeast Michigan. Some carry the option of opting for the Special Retirement Incentive Program, a benefit agreed upon in the 2023 Ford-UAW contract.
The F-150 Lightning has been in production since April 2022. Despite the recent slowdown, the electric truck saw a boost in sales last year. The company has revealed that it sold over 24,100 F-150 Lightning trucks in the U.S. in 2023, marking a nearly 55% increase from the 15,600 units sold in the previous year.
While slowing down on the F-150 Lightning, Ford has ensured to maintain a dynamic approach. The company is focusing on providing a balanced lineup to meet customer demands. This lineup includes gas-powered, hybrid, and electric vehicles. The aim is not just to cater to customer needs but also to optimize financial returns.
As part of this strategy, Ford has also announced the addition of a third crew of 1,600 people at its Michigan Assembly plant. The team will boost the production of Bronco and Bronco Raptor SUVs as well as Ranger and Ranger Raptor pickups. The new workforce will comprise nearly 900 newly recruited employees and 700 transferred from the Rouge Complex.
Furthermore, the company has plans to step up its game at its Michigan Assembly Plant. The production schedule for the Rangers and Broncos will increase from five to seven days a week. Ford assures that the planned launch of its latest Ranger and Ranger Raptor remains “on track.”
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