Ford is investing C$1.8 billion ($A2 billion) to transform its Oakville Assembly Complex in Ontario into a Canadian hub of electric vehicle manufacturing. The investment is part of Ford’s plan to reach an annual global EV production rate of 2 million by the end of 2026. The retooling and transformation of the Oakville complex will begin in the second quarter of 2024, with production of next-generation electric vehicles beginning in 2025.
The 487-acre Oakville site will feature a new 407,000 square-foot on-site battery plant that will utilise cells and arrays from BlueOval SK Battery Park in Kentucky. Oakville workers will assemble battery packs that will then be installed in vehicles assembled on-site. Ford’s investment in retooling its Oakville plant is expected to support thousands of good paying jobs and is an important milestone in the company’s plan to become a leader in the electric vehicle revolution.
Unifor National President Lana Payne said, “Ford’s commitment to invest in OAC retooling and upskilling signals a bright future for Canadian EV production and for Canadian auto sector employment. The transformation of the Oakville plant is an important step towards a stronger industry and testament to the hard work, skills and dedication of our Unifor Oakville Assembly Complex members.”
Ford President and CEO Jim Farley said, “Canada and the Oakville complex will play a vital role in our Ford+ transformation. It will be a modern, super-efficient, vertically integrated site for battery and vehicle assembly. I’m most excited for the world to see the incredible next-generation electric and fully digitally connected vehicles produced in Oakville.”
Ford’s investment in transforming its Oakville Assembly Complex into a Canadian hub of electric vehicle manufacturing is an important step towards a greener future. The investment is expected to create thousands of good paying jobs and will help Ford reach its goal of producing 2 million electric vehicles annually by 2026.
FAQ
Q1: Are electric car batteries recyclable?
A1: Yes, electric car batteries are recyclable.
Q2: Are electric car chargers free?
A2: It depends on the charger and the location. Some electric car chargers are free, while others may require a fee.
Q3: Can electric car batteries be rebuilt?
A3: Yes, electric car batteries can be rebuilt with the right tools and knowledge.
