DEARBORN, Mich., July 18, 2024 – In a bold move to meet escalating demand, Ford Motor Company has announced a significant expansion of its F-Series Super Duty production, adding a new assembly plant at Oakville Assembly Complex in Ontario, Canada. Starting in 2026, this expansion will bring an additional 100,000 Super Duty trucks to market annually, incorporating advanced multi-energy technology.
Key Highlights:
- Expansion Strategy: Ford is adding Oakville Assembly Complex to its North American production network, joining the Kentucky Truck Plant and Ohio Assembly Plant, which are already operating at full capacity.
- Job Creation: The initiative will secure approximately 1,800 jobs at Oakville and create 150 jobs at Windsor Engine Complex, with further job additions and overtime at various U.S. component plants.
- Investment Commitment: Ford plans to invest around $3 billion in this expansion, including $2.3 billion for new assembly and integrated stamping operations at Oakville, transforming it into a fully flexible plant.
- Electrification Goals: Ford aims to bolster its electric vehicle portfolio, leveraging its leadership in three-row utility vehicles and its status as America’s No. 2 electric vehicle brand.
Supporting Ford+ Plan:
This expansion aligns with Ford’s Ford+ strategy for profitable growth by maximizing its manufacturing footprint, enhancing its global truck leadership, and growing its Ford Pro commercial business. The Oakville plant’s addition is expected to provide a substantial boost to Ford’s Super Duty output, which has seen robust demand from Ford Pro customers, particularly in the construction and infrastructure sectors.
Executive Insights:
“Super Duty is an essential tool for businesses and individuals worldwide,” said Jim Farley, Ford President and CEO. “This expansion benefits our customers and energizes our Ford Pro commercial business. We’re excited about introducing three-row electric utility vehicles and continuing our journey towards electrification.”
Economic Impact:
The expansion will create significant employment opportunities across North America. In Canada, Unifor-represented employees at Oakville Assembly Complex will return to work in 2026, a year earlier than planned. In the U.S., Ford will invest in and hire at several component plants to support this increased production.
Meeting Market Demand:
The F-Series Super Duty remains the best-selling truck in America and Canada. In the first half of 2024, Ford produced over 200,000 Super Duty trucks, yet demand continues to outpace supply. “There is durable demand for Super Duty from Ford Pro customers, driven by high infrastructure spending and construction activity,” said Ted Cannis, CEO of Ford Pro.
Industry Leadership:
Ford holds dominant market shares across various industries relying on heavy-duty trucks, such as mining, utilities, emergency services, and construction. This expansion reinforces Ford’s commitment to maintaining its leadership position and ensuring that customers have timely access to their trucks.
With this strategic move, Ford not only addresses the current market demand but also sets the stage for future advancements in multi-energy vehicle technology, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and sustainability.
