On Tuesday, January 26, 2010 Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) announced it will produce the next-generation Ford Explorer SUV at the company’s Chicago Assembly Plant beginning in the fourth quarter of 2010. According to the Ford press release, the production of the next generation Explorer SUV at the Chicago Assembly Plant will bring about 1,200 new jobs to the Chicago area.
The Ford announcement of new manufacturing jobs is good news for people who may be job hunting in the Chicago area.
Ford released a press release on January 26, 2010, stating that the automotive manufacturer is investing nearly $400 million in its Chicago manufacturing facilities to launch production of the new, fuel-efficient Ford Explorer. Ford will also add 1,200 new jobs to staff a second production shift at Chicago Assembly Plant and increase production at the nearby Chicago Stamping Plant.
The next-generation Explorer will be built at the Chicago Assembly Plant on a flexible assembly line alongside the new Ford Taurus and Lincoln MKS sedans. Ford’s $400 million investment includes approximately $180 million in manufacturing investment at the Chicago sites and about $220 million for launch and engineering costs. Ford will also be making significant investment in supplier tooling to support next-generation Explorer production.
'The new Explorer will redefine the SUV for the modern era – retaining the capability customers want while delivering superb fuel efficiency, comfort and convenience,' said Mark Fields, Ford’s president of The Americas, in press release. 'This investment underscores Ford’s commitment to building world-class, fuel-efficient vehicles in America and creating new jobs that will contribute to our nation’s economic recovery.'
In planning for the company’s future manufacturing presence in the state, Ford worked closely with Illinois Governor Pat Quinn, who led an effort in passing legislation that allows Ford to participate in Illinois’ Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) program, which provides tax incentives to businesses that commit to new investments and create or retain jobs in Illinois.
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