Several employees will be transitioning to new positions or opting for retirement packages next week due to a decline in sales of Ford electric pickup trucks.
According to Ford spokeswoman Jessica Enoch, the changes that were announced in January will be implemented starting on Monday.
Ford Trims F-150 Lightning Amid Slow EV Sales
The production of Ford's F-150 Lightning electric pickup was reduced at the beginning of the new year, which was a strategic move taken by the company. In the midst of a modest development trajectory in sales of electric cars (EVs), this choice was made within the context of the situation.
Although there have been indications that there has been a discernible increase in the number of sales of electric vehicles across the United States, the rate at which these sales are occurring is not up to the standards that the industry has set for business. Therefore, as an alternative, hybrid cars are becoming increasingly appealing to a large number of consumers.
The previous year, Ford was able to sell slightly more than 24,000 units of the Lightning, which is a significant increase of 55% when compared to the data from 2022.
Dealers have to deal with diminishing sales momentum and growing stocks of the electric truck, which is recognized for having a starting price that is just before $50,000. This is despite the fact that there has been an increase.
Ford's Rouge Electric Plant Faces Staff Changes
Inside the Rouge Electric Vehicle Plant, which is situated in Dearborn, Michigan, there are going to be significant alterations that are going to take place in the near future. The factory is home to three different work crews, which together provide employment for a total of 2,100 people.
Ford's strategy entails the relocation of 700 employees to the Michigan Assembly Plant situated in Wayne, where they will undertake the production of the Bronco and Ranger models.
As for the remaining 700 workers, they face a pivotal choice between accepting a retirement package proffered during negotiations with the United Auto Workers the previous year or embracing a new assignment in the southeastern region of Michigan.
As part of its efforts to improve efficiency and adapt to changes, Ford is expanding its workforce at the Michigan Assembly Plant by adding a third crew. Enoch emphasized the importance of job security, assuring employees that those who select not to retire will still have employment within the company.
