Ford’s latest announcement to shift production of their Super Duty heavy-duty pickup trucks to their factory in Oakville, Ontario came as a surprise to many, as the factory was originally intended to produce electric vehicles (EVs). This move has sparked speculation that Ford may be gearing up to introduce an electrified version of their Super Duty HD pickup truck in the near future.
The decision to repurpose the Oakville Assembly Complex to manufacture Super Duty trucks is expected to increase production capacity by 100,000 units. Ford also plans to create new jobs and/or extend overtime at an Ontario engine plant and three U.S. components plants to support this change. The transition is set to begin in 2026, while the current plants that produce the Super Duty manufactured 200,000 trucks in the first half of 2024.
### Shift from EVs to Super Duty
Initially, the Oakville plant was producing Ford Edge and Lincoln Nautilus crossovers before shifting focus towards EV manufacturing. However, Ford has recently been scaling back on its EV plans. The automaker delayed the release of its next-generation electric truck by a year and pushed back the timeline for an electric three-row SUV by two years. Ford stated that they are now prioritizing hybrid models by adding a hybrid powertrain to every vehicle.
### Financial setbacks and new strategies
Ford reported substantial losses on EVs in their Model E business unit, which handles electric passenger cars. Despite this, Ford’s Fleet-minded Ford Pro unit continues to sell EVs. The company remains committed to offering more affordable and higher-volume EVs in the future, although the timeline for this shift may be longer than anticipated.
### Testing new technology
Ford has been spotted testing an electric pickup truck that features in-wheel motors and eight-lug wheels typically found on heavy-duty trucks like the Super Duty. While this technology represents a potential advancement in electric vehicles, it is uncertain whether it will be incorporated into production models.
In conclusion, Ford’s decision to move Super Duty production to the Oakville factory signifies a shift in their manufacturing strategy. This move comes amidst a broader reevaluation of their approach to EVs and hybrids. The possibility of an electrified Super Duty pickup truck entering the market reflects Ford’s commitment to innovation and adapting to changing consumer preferences in the automotive industry.
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