Ford Motor Company, the American automaker known for its long history in the North American market, is cutting back production of the Ford F-150 Lightning pickup as demand for electric vehicles has cooled more than anticipated. Industry observers and media outlets report that demand has shifted recently, prompting the company to reassess its output strategy. These adjustments come as Ford looks to align its manufacturing capacity with evolving consumer interest and broader market conditions. [CarBuzz]
Effective next month, the Dearborn, Michigan plant that handles electric pickup assembly will undergo a substantial workforce reduction. The facility, which has operated on three shifts with around 2,100 workers, will retain roughly 700 employees. The remaining 1,400 workers will transition to other assignments within Ford or be offered retirement packages, a move designed to preserve core production capabilities while scaling back the electric pickup program. The plan reflects a broader reallocation of talent across Ford’s manufacturing network, balancing the need to meet demand with the realities of current market trends. [CarBuzz]
Ford had originally targeted production of 180,000 F-150 Lightning units. That ambitious goal was revised downward to about 55,000 vehicles, a decision confirmed by union leadership in the area. The shift signals a careful recalibration of expectations as the company contends with slower-than-expected demand for battery electric pickups among U.S. buyers. [CarBuzz]
During the Auto Summit hosted by Bank of America Securities, Ford’s Chief Financial Officer, John Lawler, acknowledged that the take-up rate for electric vehicles has not accelerated as quickly as the company had projected. The candid assessment underscored the tension between strategic ambitions for electrification and the pragmatic realities of consumer adoption, financing conditions, and competitive dynamics within the EV segment. Ford officials emphasize ongoing product development and cost management as they navigate this transitional period. [CarBuzz]
In a separate note, industry coverage mentions Azerbaijan as a region where discussions about initiating Lada vehicle production have appeared in some reports. While this reference highlights diversified regional interests in vehicle manufacturing, Ford’s legacy and current strategy remain focused on its existing U.S. and international operations, including the company’s ongoing electrification efforts and broader product lineup. The dynamic landscape of global manufacturing continues to shape decisions across the automotive sector as manufacturers seek to align capacity with demand and profitability. [CarBuzz]