Like a few here I've waited to post, to allow some of the emotion to die down. I too received the email from Ford Australia:
"Hi Andrew
Today Ford has announced a plan to transform its business. Firstly, we wanted to inform you directly that there will be no changes to the way our customers buy and service our cars.
We are committed to our long history of serving Australian customers with the very best vehicles that deliver cutting edge technology at an affordable price. Unfortunately, due to challenging market conditions, we are unable to do that longer-term while continuing to manufacture locally. As a result, local manufacturing operations will cease in October 2016.
We remain committed to the launch of new versions of the Falcon, Falcon Ute and Territory in 2014. We will stand behind these products, offering service, parts and technical support through to at least 2026.
Whilst we are changing our structure, our commitment to Australia remains strong. We will continue to offer a full range of great vehicles with affordable technology and a great driving experience. We also remain a significant employer in the Australian market, with more than 1500 team members, and our 200-strong dealer network. Our local team’s role as a global centre of excellence for vehicle development will continue to be an important focus for our business.
For more information on today’s announcement, please visit
www.ford.com.au/about/newsroom.
If you have any questions, please contact our Customer Relationship Centre at
customers@fordcrc.com.au or via phone at 133 673. Alternatively, please speak to your local Ford Dealer.
Regards"
Thoughts to those & their families directly affected.
I don't think this is a real surprise to anyone. The One Ford program has been well established and the only questions were when & what for this would take in Australia.
The Falcon & Territory were only going to survive as part of this global program & never as truly 'Australian' vehicles.
The 1500 local employees referred to above would include a substantial number involved in global engineering. This is the future for the automotive industry in Australia. What contribution of this type is larger among the remaining so called local manufacturers?
To those criticising the closure of the manufacturing, please note its in 3 years; a lot longer 'support' than those who have closed up before and honouring the commitments made to Government.
Again thoughts to those directly affected, you should should be proud of the history you have created & the future ahead, while cloudy', can be planned and faced with some sense of certainty now.