Ford Chair: Strike Puts Big 3 Carmakers at Disadvantage
As the strike continues, non-union automakers gain an edge over union companies, says Ford executive.
The Ford strike impacts two assembly plants and its Kentucky Truck Plant.
IMAGE: Pexels
The ongoing United Auto Workers strike campaign against Ford and other Detroit big-three automakers puts the companies at a disadvantage, warned Bill Ford, executive chairman of Ford Motors told reporters a news briefing.
The strike will give automakers such as Toyota, Honda, Tesla and Chinese manufacturers an edge over big three, he said.
The union hadn't yet issued a response to Ford's comments.
He urged the UAW to end the strike against Ford and its Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Chicago Assembly Plant in Illinois and Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville.
The strike has put about 19,000 workers out of work. Workers are striking or being laid off from Ford facilities because of its impact on production, Reuters noted.
“We can stop this now,” Ford said in his speech. “We need to come together to bring an end to this acrimonious round of talks. I still believe in a bright future, one that we can build together. I still believe the automobile industry is a major force for good in our country.”
The fight should not be Ford versus the UAW, he said, noting the industry is at a crossroads.
“Choosing the right path isn't just about Ford's future and our ability to compete. This is about the future of the American automobile industry,” he said. “The UAW leaders have called us the enemy in these negotiations. But I will never consider our employees as enemies.”
If the automakers lose to the competition, Ford said that “America loses. Many jobs will be lost. So will future investments. ... Communities will suffer greatly.”
Originally posted on Auto Dealer Today
More Industry
Autos More Appealing
Consumers gave new cars better scores again this year for design, performance and more as mass-market brands kept gaining on premium lineups, JD Power found in an annual poll.
Read More →
Used EVs Defy Overall Market
While the used-car market saw three months of price declines or stagnation, the used EV segment did the opposite – rising for three straight months.
Read More →
Trade-Ins in Negative Equity Reach New Heights
As such trade-ins rise in frequency, so do monthly loan payment amounts and interest rates, according to second-quarter data compiled by Edmunds.
Read More →
Gone to the Dogs
A Stellantis brand decided to have some fun with one of its SUVs’ design to address growing emphasis on family pets.
Read More →
OEM Poll Sees Industry Evolution
Kerrigan Advisors’ survey of automakers finds that tariffs, technology, network tightening and other factors are poised to reshape auto retail.
Read More →
Luxe N.C. Dealerships Change Hands
A collection of Italian and English brand franchises were handed off to the owner’s friend in the business and include the Carolinas’ only Ferrari retail stores.
Read More →
Exposure Drives Interest in Chinese Cars
At a recent demonstration, consumers had the chance to ride in a Chinese-branded vehicle, a firsthand experience that improved their perceptions and purchase intent.
Read More →
Automotive Consumers Sink Further in Debt
Most financing metrics hit records in the second quarter as more buyers locked themselves into long terms and high monthly payments.
Read More →
Agent Advocate
Rob Mancuso, who comes from a long line of auto dealers, values general agents’ place in the industry and makes a case for them taking an even bigger seat at the table.
Read More →
Driving Under Distraction
Though consumers gave higher marks to new vehicles in JD Power’s most recent initial-quality poll, high-tech interference worsened, pointing to craving for simplicity.
Read More →