Ford to Build More Broncos and Rangers, Fewer F-150 Lightnings
Customers awaiting delivery of their new Ford Bronco or Ranger should be happy right now: Ford today announced that it plans to create nearly 900 new jobs as part of a new third crew at Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne to ramp up production of these two popular models.
Another 700 employees from Ford’s Rouge Complex in Dearborn—where the F-150 Lightning electric pickup is currently built—will come to help.
- Also: NHTSA Expands Probe of Ford’s EcoBoost V6 Engines
- Also: Ford Says “a Ton More” Bronco Models Are Coming
The move doesn’t come into effect immediately, mind you. Ford says the extra manpower in Wayne will arrive sometime in the summer. Crucially, though, the factory will transition to producing vehicles seven days a week versus five currently, with three crews working two shifts.
“The company is moving nimbly across its global footprint to capitalize on its balanced lineup and serve customers with the right mix of gas-powered, hybrid and electric vehicles, while optimizing financial returns,” Ford said in a statement.
F-150 Lightning Output Scaled Down
As reported in mid-December, Ford will cut production of its electric pickup this year despite the fact that sales were up 55 percent in 2023. Further growth is still forecast for 2024, just not as strong as initially projected.
Approximately 1,400 employees will be impacted as the Rouge Electric Vehicle Center transitions to one shift effective April 1. Roughly half will transfer to Wayne, while the other half will be placed in roles at the Rouge Complex or other facilities in Southeast Michigan, or take advantage of the Special Retirement Incentive Program agreed to in the new Ford-UAW contract.
A few dozen employees could also be impacted at component plants supporting F-150 Lightning production.
EV demand has slowed down significantly in the past several months, at least in the U.S., prompting Ford and other automakers like General Motors to scale back their EV investments.