One week after Ford closed its North American manufacturing facilities due to concerns over the coronavirus pandemic, the automaker has announced plans to gradually reopen some plants starting in April.
On April 6 2020, Ford plans to resume operations at its Hermosillo Assembly Plant in Mexico, but with a single shift. Subsequently, the company aims to resume production at various U.S. factories, which includes locations in Missouri, Kentucky, and Michigan, on April 14 2020.
In preparation for the return of workers, Ford has committed to implementing enhanced safety protocols. Coincidentally, April 14 is the anticipated expiration of a comprehensive “stay home” order issued by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
The decision to suspend operations was a collective agreement among major U.S. automakers, prompted by reports of at least two coronavirus cases at American plants, one of which was in Michigan. This move was greatly influenced by the United Auto Workers (UAW), which expressed ongoing concerns regarding the health and safety of its members.
In a statement, the UAW emphasized, “We are carefully evaluating today’s announcements. Our foremost priority remains the health and safety of our members, their families, and the broader public.”
At this point, other major U.S. automotive manufacturers have not followed Ford’s reopening plans. General Motors commented on the evolving situation, stating, “Conditions are changing weekly, and we currently lack definitive dates for resuming work.” Meanwhile, Fiat Chrysler has not disclosed any intentions to restart its manufacturing operations.
