another 440 jobs to go at Ford

[PlukaDuck]

Whats all the fuss about. It is just another ploy that the car companies use to get handouts from the GOV'T. Ford , Holden and Mitsubishi have been doing it for years. FORD IS ALIVE AND WELL
Chill out its all good........... PLUKA.
Have added for your reading enjoyment a history of ford below. Including plant closures and openings.

A Brief History of Ford Australia

Ford Australia Milestones
In collation of this website we are endeavouring to gather a one stop authorised succinct complete history of Ford and distribute approved information via this website.
As you may well understand this is not a small task and we are involved with many support groups to assist in its implementation.
In the meantime we have provided a short timeline of milestone history and look forward to updates throughout time.
1904 First Ford car, a Model A imported into Australia.
1905-1925 Ford cars imported through agents and distributors from Canada and the United States.
1918 First Fordson tractors in Australia.
1919 Ford branch office established in Melbourne by Ford of Canada
1925 Ford Motor Company of Australia formed on March 31. Production of Model T begins July 1 in leased premises in Geelong. Construction of assembly plants in Geelong, Brisbane, Fremantle and Adelaide commenced.
1926 Manufacturing and Assembly Plants opened in Geelong, Adelaide and Brisbane.
1928 Introduction of Model A.
1930 Fremantle (WA) assembly plant opened in March.
1932 Introduction of V8 models. First small English Ford, the Model Y, introduced.
1934 World’s first coupe utility, Model 40, designed and built by Ford Australia.
1935 Ford introduces Model 48 with all-steel body and fabric top. Ford 10 h.p. Prefect released.
1936 Homebush (Sydney) assembly plant opened March 17.
1937 Model 78 with first steel turret-top body on an Australian-built sedan.
1938 Ten-Ten panel van introduced.
1939-44 Lincoln Zephyr released. Geelong production facilities converted to wartime activities to manufacture landing barges, military vehicles, and ammunition materials. Brisbane (Rocklea) Plant converted to recondition aero engines. Sydney plant begins building Bren Gun Carriers.
1945 Resumption of civilian vehicle production. Ford V8 sedan launched by Prime Minister Ben Chifley. Fordson E27N Model tractor introduced.
1946 Ford Freighter utility announced – forerunner of F-Series.
1949 All new Ford V8 sedan with independent front suspension – Single Spinner model. Ford Pilot V8 imported from England. Thames range of trucks released.
1951 Consul 4 cylinder sedan.
1952 English Zephyr 6 cylinder sedan. Fordson Major Tractor introduced. Customline sedans and utilities announced.
1955 Australian-built Customline sedans and Mainline utilities fitted with OHV V8 engines built on new overhead valve V8 engine line.
1956 MkII Zephyr and Consul sedans. Utility version of Consul and Zephyr designed and produced. 400 acres (162 hectares) purchased at Broadmeadows for future expansion.
1958 Announcement of $37 million expansion. Work starts on Broadmeadows Car Assembly Plant. Modernisation program begins at Geelong. Fordson Dexta light tractor released.
1959 Broadmeadows Car Assembly Plant opened in August. Australian-built Fairlane 500, Custom 300 and Ranch Wagon.
1960 First XK Falcon sedan off line in June and the full range of Falcon sedans and wagons introduced (September). Engine machine shop installed at expanded Geelong plant.
1961 $31 million expansion plan announced. Capacity almost doubled from 50,000 to 90,000 units per year. Head Office transferred to Melbourne. Utility and Panel van added to Falcon range.
1962 100,000th Falcon produced. Fremantle assembly operations ceased – plant used for rectifications only. XL Falcon introduced. National Parts Distribution Centre opened at Broadmeadows at cost of $3 million. Tractor and Implement Division commenced operations. Fordson Super Major tractor.
1963 $27 million expansion plan announced. Ford Sales Company of Australia Limited established. Ford introduced broad acre farm implement range.
1964 XM Falcon sedans, wagons and new hardtop two-door model introduced. Broadmeadows Car Assembly Plant expanded and $2 million Head Office opened on the site. $160,000 Apprentice Training Centre at Geelong.
1965 Henry Ford II, Chairman of Ford, visits Australia. $1.5 million, 700 hectare Proving Ground opened. 70,000 mile Durability Run for XP Falcon models at Proving Ground.
1966 XR Falcon – completely new model with V8 engine option. $2 million extension to Brisbane Plant. Industrial tractor range launched.
1967 Falcon XR GT introduced. Falcon GTs takes first and second places in Bathurst 500 mile race. Australian Fairlane based on Falcon floor pan introduced. Falcons exported to Japan – Ford wins Export Award. 1,000,000th Australian-built Ford produced. Tractor and Equipment Operations moved to Broadmeadows.
1968 XT Falcon. Model 8000 and 6Y tractors released. Falcon team of three GTs wins the teams’ prize in the London-Sydney Marathon. Falcons were placed 3rd, 5th and 8th.
1969 XW Falcon. GT HO version announced.
1970 XW GT HO Phase 2 introduced. Falcon first and second at Bathurst. XY Falcon launched with Phase 3 GT HO version. 30,000th completely knocked down (CKD) vehicle exported. $45 million expansion announced. Ford Credit Australia formed.
1971 Falcon GT HO Phase cars take first three places at Bathurst.
1972 XA Falcon – first all- Australian designed Falcon – introduced including new two-door hardtop model. Crash barrier facility and emission laboratory commissioned at Lara Proving Ground. $4 million Plastics Plant announced. Ford Fiera announced for Asian market. The Blue Line tractor equipment range announced.
1973 XB Falcon launched. Including last GT model. Falcon wins Bathurst.
1974 Ford takes passenger car leadership for first six months. Ford Asia-Pacific Regional Office formed, responsible for operations in Japan, S.E. Asia, Pacific Island, New Zealand and Australia. Falcon wins Bathurst.
1975 Louisville heavy duty truck range announced – first right hand drive versions in the world. Ford Construction Equipment range released.
1976 XC Falcon launched. $72 million product investment and facility expansion program announced. 7A Tractors range released.
1977 Expansion of Plastics Plant. Famous 1-2 win for Falcons at Bathurst.
1978 Japanese sourced Courier one tonne utility. Transit Van and ‘D’ Series trucks announced. Cobra Hardtop introduced and 400 made.
1979 Henry Ford II visits Australia for launched of all-new XD Falcon, Fairlane and LTD range. Falcon sedans fitted with new lightweight plastic fuel tank, the first mass-produced car in the world to have this technology. New Trader medium duty truck range released.
1980 Ford announced $300 million investment program. Alloy head introduced for XD Falcon six cylinder range. TF Cortina launched. $13 million upgrade for Homebush (Sydney) Assembly Plant to prepare for Laser introduction. 1000 Series tractor introduced. Australian built 8401 tractor launched.
1981 Laser front-wheel-drive models launched. New F Series and Bronco 4 x 4 range released. Courier diesel-powered utility added to range. New models of Econovan and Trader. All-new Cargo replaces ‘D’ Series trucks. $70 million four cylinder engine plant commenced construction at Geelong. Ford sales total $1.126 billion; after-tax profit is $49 million. Fremantle Tractor Plant capacity doubled. Ford tractors take ‘brand name’ leadership. Falcon wins Bathurst and Touring Car Championship.
1982 New XE Falcon range launched with Watts Link rear suspension, restyled body and upgraded engine, transmission and interior trim. Meteor sedan launched, Laser models upgraded and Laser ‘S’ added. Ford sells 550 Cargo and 170 F Series trucks to Australian Army in $13 million contract. Ford corporate advertising campaign “Ford Australia, we’re moving with you” launched. Series 10 Tractor range introduced. Ford sales total $1.294 billion; after-tax profit is $66.3 million. Ford engineers win Shell Mileage Marathon with special economy vehicle at 2,599.5 miles per gallon (0.108 litres per 100 km).
1983 Ford wins Australian Design Award for Falcon, Fairlane and LTD range – first time for a motor vehicle. Electronic fuel Injected engines introduced to Falcon, Fairlane and LTD range. AR Telstar sedan and TX5 hatchback models. F Series upgraded. Cargo 11 heavy duty truck range launched. KB Laser and GB Meteor models released. Employee Involvement program launched at Homebush Assembly Plant in Sydney. Mileage Marathon world record lifted to 2,948 m.p.g. (0.095 L/100km) by Ford engineers. Sales $1,366 billion, after-tax profit $72.8 million. $55 million four cylinder engine plant announced.
1984 XF Falcon released – EEC 1V engine management system, rounded front styling, and new interior. New Econovan/Spectron models. $69.1 million investment in CAD/CAM at Geelong. Sales $1.66 billion, after-tax profit $97 million. Mileage Marathon world record broken again by Ford – 3,133 miles per gallon (.090 L/100km).
1985 Record sales of $2,069 billion (170,811 units) for after-tax profit of $103.5 million. Special KB Laser Turbo limited education released. KC Laser/GC Meteor introduced. Falcon celebrates 25th Anniversary with special model (2000 produced). Local assembly of LTL 9000 commenced. Construction of new paint facility at Broadmeadows started. Carla Zampatti Laser launched – February. New mileage record set by Ford engineers – 5,107 miles per gallon. (0.55 L/100km).
1986 Facelift of XF Falcon with power steering/4-wheel disc brakes as standard, introduction of Fairmont Ghia wagon. TX5 Turbo introduced. Meteor Wagon introduced – March. Spectron/Econovan 4 x 4 released. Force 11 tractor range introduced. Sales $1.877 billion. After-tax profit $19.2 million.
1987 KE Laser introduced – Meteor name deleted. AT Telstar released. F150 introduced with anti-lock rear brakes. Courier 4 x 4 range released. Production of new EA Falcon commenced – October. $62 million paint facility opened at Broadmeadows. $2.4 million Training Centre opened at Broadmeadows. Ford New Holland Inc formed in Australia as a separate company. All operations transferred to Cranbourne, Victoria. Total sales $2 billion – After-tax profit $48 million. Fremantle Rectification Plant closed.
1988 EA Falcon range launched – February. Fairlane/LTD models released – June. New LTS 9000 heavy duty truck replaces LN 9000. Production of Capri commenced. Ford exhibits at Expo 88, Brisbane.
1989 Capri convertible released. Four-speed automatic transmission introduced on Falcon EA Series 2/Fairlane/LTD models. Medium-sized Corsair launched. New Trader truck range. Total sales $2.8 billion, after-tax profit $134 million.
1990 Capri convertibles exported to USA in May for release in July. Falcon celebrates 30th anniversary. New models launched – KF Laser, Corsair Liftback and Capri II. New range of heavy trucks introduced including aerodynamic LTS9000 and LTS8000 and 9000 models. Total sales $2.8 billion, after-tax loss $84 million.
1991 EB Falcon launched in July with V8 engine option. 30,000th Capri shipped to US in June. Raider 4WD wagon introduced in August. The compact, five-door Festiva was introduced in October. Total sales $2.27 billion, after-tax loss $113.8 million.
1992 In April the EBII Falcon with 4-litre engine and affordable ABS brakes was launched. Tickford Vehicle Engineering (TVE) formed in a joint venture with Ford Australia. In conjunction with TVE the Capri Clubsprint was introduced in July. TVE produced the Falcon S XR6 in September and followed with the 25th Anniversary Falcon GT in October. Total sales $2.46 billion, after-tax loss $38.3 million.
1993 New product introductions: Festiva Trio 3-door – January. Falcon Longreach utility and van – April. SE Capri – July. ED Falcon – August. One-tonne Longreach GLi Ute and van – August. XL Courier upgrade – August. XR8 Sprint launched – August. XR6 wagon and XR6 utility launched – October. Falcon top-selling vehicle – Ford No. 1 in passenger sales, No. 2 overall. Total sales $2.77 billion, after tax loss $45.3 million. Company wins Australian Quality Award.
1994 New product introductions: WB Festiva – March; Probe (sourced from US) – June; EF Falcon (major
change) – August; XR Series, EF Falcon – September; KJ Laser – October. Capri assembly ceased May 19. Homebush Assembly Plant closed – September. EF Falcon wins Australian Design Award.
1995 New product introductions: NF Series II Fairlane – October; DF Series II – October; HB Mondeo – October; EF Series II Falcon – November. Profit $201.7 million. Vehicle sales 137,800 – 21.5% market share.
1996 New product introductions: SU Probe – March; DN Taurus – March; NL Fairlane – September; DL LTD – September; KJ Series II Laser – December; HC Mondeo – December. Profit $217.3 million. Vehicle sales 132,200 – 20.3% market share.
1997 New product introductions: WD Festiva – January; DP Taurus – January; SV Probe – February; EL Falcon – March; EL 30th anniversary GT – March; KJ Series III Laser – December. Profit $179.5 million. Vehicle sales 130,200 – 18% market share. Market leadership in total vehicles as well as passenger vehicles.
1998 New product introductions: Completely new AU Falcon – September; WF Festiva September; Brisbane Assembly Plant closed. Profit $57 million. Vehicle sales 128,800 – 15.9% market share. Falcon (Bright/Richards) wins Bathurst 1000 and all three Indy Car Grand Prix support races (Larkham)
1999 New Product introductions: HD Mondeo – January; AU Fairlane – March; KN Laser – March; AU LTD – June; AU Utility range – June; Cougar – October; TE Series FTE sedans – October; Ka – November. Ford Tickford Experience (FTE) set up to market specialist vehicles. Ford Discovery Centre dedicated by Edsel Ford III and opened in Geelong by Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett (April). Geoff Polites replaces David Morgan as President of Ford Australia.
2000 Ford Australia 75th Anniversary; AU Falcon Series II released – April; 40th Anniversary of Falcon – June.
2001 Escape launched in Australia – February; Mustang re-introduced to Australia – February; Ford Alive educational program launched – May; F-250 and F-350 trucks introduced – July; AU Falcon T-Series released – November;
2002 Focus launched in Australia, replacing Laser – October; All new BA Falcon released – October; New Falcon wins Wheels Magazine Car of the Year and Best Family Car Award from major automobile clubs — Nov/Dec; Ford Performance Vehicles replaces Tickford as Ford’s performance partner and announces the return of the GT Falcon.
2004 Ford Territory Launched and wins major motoring awards including Wheels Car of the Year
2005 2nd Generation European designed Focus is launched alongside updated BF Falcon
2006 Ranger Launched, Turbo added to popular Territory range. Craig Lowndes wins Bathurst in a Falcon.
2007 European Mondeo relaunched onto Australian market, huge facility upgrades at Proving Ground, Geelong stamping plant. Research & Development Centre opened in Geelong
2008 All new FG Falcon released, Craig Lowndes wins Bathurst
2009 New Fiesta released, Ford announces $230 million of new investment for efficient and enviromently friendly engines
2010 Third generation Focus is shown at Detroit Motor Show for the first time.

[bmorris]

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-07-1...tralia/4139250

Car industry observers say Ford's days of making cars in Australia will be numbered once the next version of the Falcon rolls off the production line.

Yesterday, Ford announced it would cut up to 440 jobs at two of its plants in Melbourne and cut production of its cars to meet falling demand.

The Ford Falcon and the Holden Commodore were among Australia's most popular cars 15 years ago.

But Australian Automobile Association executive director Andrew McKellar says those kinds of large cars are now out of fashion.

"Four-wheel drives, SUVs: they're now 27 to 28 per cent of the market. At the same time, large cars are down to only about 5 per cent of the market," he said.

"So the old model, where the local manufacturing industry focused on the larger car segment, that's no longer viable."

But while Holden has taken steps to future-proof its local operations by starting production of a smaller car, Ford ditched plans to make a smaller car in Australia several years ago.

Richard Johns, who was involved in the rationalisation of the car industry in the 1980s and now runs the consultancy Australian Automotive Intelligence, says it is not easy for car makers to switch to production of smaller cars.

"A lot of people think that'd be easy for car makers just to change over, say, stop producing the Falcon and produce the Focus, but it's not that simple, because there's an investment of - in the full car line - of somewhere between a half a billion and a billion dollars, in starting a new car," he said.

He says more often than not, the cars Australians are buying are made overseas.

"SUVs, with the exception of the Ford Territory, which is made here, and the smaller cars have typically been imported, particularly from Japan and Korea, although European brands such as Volkswagen are making strong comebacks in the Australian market," he said.
No longer supportive?

Motoring expert Ged Bulmer says some quarters believe the only thing keeping Ford operations alive in Australia is government support.

He says rumours have been swirling for years that Ford's head office in Detroit is no longer supportive of manufacturing in Australia.

"There have been opportunities for Detroit to, if you like, throw Ford Australia a lifeline, by for instance allowing it to integrate the successful Territory into its global sales mix, or by allowing it even to sell Falcons into other markets," he said.

"That opportunity's not been offered, so I think it is fair to say that Detroit hasn't been as supportive of Ford Australia as it could have been, or should have been."

But Mr Johns says it is unlikely head office let its assets in Australia continue on with the status quo, knowing that they would receive government support.

"I think that is far too cynical, because the levels of assistance in Australia today are very low for the automotive industry," he said.

"Tariffs have reduced from 57.5 per cent, plus other factors which stop the inflow of cars to where many imported cars are coming into Australia on zero tariffs today and the maximum tariff is 5 per cent."

As well as the Falcon, Ford also produces the Territory four-wheel drive in Australia.

It sells well, but Mr Bulmer doubts Ford could continue to keep its operations open by just producing the Territory alone.

"They're already winding their production back quite significantly with this most recent announcement of job cuts," he said.

"So if you take Falcon out of that mix, the line rate for the day would be getting perilously close to being unsustainable."

Mr Bulmer says it is possible Ford is leaving itself open to stopping production in Australia.

"There has been ongoing speculation for a number of years that this latest Falcon will be the last Falcon produced here in Australia and Ford has only committed to an update on that vehicle," he said.

"Beyond that they haven't committed to a new model, which Holden has done.

"So I think if you read between the lines, it does look like they're certainly leaving themselves room to, at sometime in the future, stop local production."

Mr Johns says Ford's prospects in Australia are not good.

"In the longer term, unless they can have a vehicle which sells much more strongly than the Falcon's been selling in recent times, then I think it would be very hard to justify continuing production," he said.

Ford Australia did not respond to PM's request for comment.

It's almost as those people read these forums and then go and speak to the media. I guess everyone can pat themselves on the back for being famous.

On a more serious note, it's very sad to hear these jobs are going. I feel for those people who are losing their jobs, specially those who have spent a long part of their life building our favorite cars. I know there are a number of forum members here that work for Ford in Victoria and I hope that their jobs are safe.

My 2 cents... I believe the blame needs to be shared around. Ford North America can have some of the blame, lack of investment in Australia, not offering Ford Australia export opportunities. They have done their best to really ruin one of the jewels in the Ford Kingdom.

Ford Australia also needs to share in the blame. For over charging in todays market, even though the Falcon is a great car, its RRP is just to high compared to whats in the competition. I know overseas companies can build and therefore sell cheaper but that's just the way things are these days. You can't blame consumers for spending less and getting more.

I also can't buy into the idea that selling less can be more profitable. In theory the idea works but what Ford Australia really needs right now is volume and cash flow. Without cash flow, you sack workers, as seen yesterday.

Though it's not 2016 yet so here's to staying positive that I will be able to buy another Falcon before then

[prydey]

i got a carsguide email, and the headline was 'death of falcon'. clicked on the article and there was no article. have they grown a conscience and pulled it?

[cortinagt]

I posted this in the ecoboost thread but seems more relevant here (sorry for cross posting)

"Like most on here I am a massive ford fan but also not oblivious to the chain of events that has lead Ford here.

IMHO Ford Detroit decided on the Ford Aust manufacturing future when they pulled the pin on the Aust built Focus. They are now trying (but failing) to slowly downgrade local manufacturing without hurting the brand.

I sincerely hope I'm wrong but I think fans on this forum need to start thinking which model of the last locally built Fords is right for them.

Eco boost is just a way to get the Australian public used to an I4 big ford before the Taurus is introduced.

My thoughts go out to the people of broad meadows and especially Gee long. I don't blame Ford for their decision a few years ago I blame consective Governments who don't value local production and think our products should "be competitive or die" while also listening to unions who are pricing our labour out of the market. Without the support of import tariffs Ford manufacturing in this country is doomed. But who is going to vote in a Government that wants to up the price of imported cars up 10-15%?

/rant..........sorry"

[stevz]

Originally Posted by Big Damo

Government should be buying Australian made cars, none of this green car policy crap.

Government is supposed to serve its people, it should be helping more than just giving cash handouts, maybe they should have been more creative with "giving" manufacturers money, example:

Government fleets have to be Australian made cars.

Create incentives for average joe to buy Falcon/Commodore/Aurion, maybe GST or LCT exemption on Australian made cars, cheaper rego?

Spot on.

There is absolutely NO excuse for governments to be purchasing imported cars.

Those who do so should be exposed and shamed.

[Geez Louise]

My thoughts on the ABC newslink....Until Ford Australia actually make a formal comment or statement/press release on the issue and direction of where they are heading....I will take these kinds of releases as just more speculation...Sorry.

Thanks for posting the link though

Cheers
Col

[zilo]

If I were to offer Ford Australia any survival advice it would be to think along these lines:-

Holden has the "Volt" ....Developed in US

Toyota has the "Prius"...Developed in US/Japan

Ford has...(insert electric car model here)...Developed in Geelong Australia

Whether you think climate change is crap or not if you make a proper electric car the world will embrace it.

No point trying to compete with india or asia with small car manufacturing.

But innovation...yep, that will work.


The Falcon sales decline is due to fuel consumption of large cars, or perception thereof.
To ignore the reasons is commercially unintelligent, replacing it with a Taurus will not work in Australia...our fuel cost is double that of the US.
That is the root problem for Ford Aus in my opinion.

.

[falconnut]

Yeah Ford are not big on EV or Hybrids.

They should make a Hybrid Diesel it would sell pretty well.

[Keepleft]

Mutter, might limit our choice of future NSW Highway Patrol vehicles somewhat.

Damn.

[falconnut]

i guess the police will be stuck with slow jap crap

[jpd80]

Originally Posted by cortinagt

I
IMHO Ford Detroit decided on the Ford Aust manufacturing future when they pulled the pin on the Aust built Focus. They are now trying (but failing) to slowly downgrade local manufacturing without hurting the brand.

It was Ford Australia who pulled out of the deal, Not head office.
Burela put a case to them that it was more feasible for FoA to continue with Falcon
and maximize Focus profitability by building it in Thailand.

If not for that we would have had V6 Falcons in petrol and LPG much quicker and without gap,
FPV would have probably built NA and S/C 5.0 engines for FoA whilst
concentrated
on growing businesss first with Focus, followed by Kuga, Mondeo and possible C-Max

I sincerely hope I'm wrong but I think fans on this forum need to start thinking which model of the last locally built Fords is right for them.

Eco boost is just a way to get the Australian public used to an I4 big ford before the Taurus is introduced.

None of which is important since the bulk of Falcon's sales were to fleets, most people
are now buying Falcons second hand and saving thousands of dollars by doing that.

My thoughts go out to the people of broad meadows and especially Gee long. I don't blame Ford for their decision a few years ago I blame consective Governments who don't value local production and think our products should "be competitive or die" while also listening to unions who are pricing our labour out of the market. Without the support of import tariffs Ford manufacturing in this country is doomed. But who is going to vote in a Government that wants to up the price of imported cars up 10-15%?

The reason car prices have remained reasonably flat for the past 15 years is entirely due to
the reductions in tariffs and increased competition, you can't put the wishes of a few fans
ahead of the greater good of lower cost vehicles to the Australian public.

[prydey]

Originally Posted by Ugg

The Falcon sales decline is due to fuel consumption of large cars, or perception thereof.
To ignore the reasons is commercially unintelligent, replacing it with a Taurus will not work in Australia...our fuel cost is double that of the US.
That is the root problem for Ford Aus in my opinion..

really? the fuel consumption thing gets wheeled out every time and yet one of the biggest segments is the suv segment, and those cars are as thirsty or thirstier than the large sedans. its got nothing to do with fuel consumption. they are seen as a 1 trick pony. suv's are seen as more of a 'lifestyle' vehicle and considered much more versatile.

Originally Posted by falconnut

Yeah Ford are not big on EV or Hybrids.

They should make a Hybrid Diesel it would sell pretty well.

well, maybe not ford australia, but ford do have plenty of hybrids in their lineup.

[Fiesta_Man69]

Originally Posted by PlukaDuck

Whats all the fuss about. It is just another ploy that the car companies use to get handouts from the GOV'T. Ford , Holden and Mitsubishi have been doing it for years. FORD IS ALIVE AND WELL
Chill out its all good........... PLUKA.
Have added for your reading enjoyment a history of ford below. Including plant closures and openings.

A Brief History of Ford Australia

Ford Australia Milestones
In collation of this website we are endeavouring to gather a one stop authorised succinct complete history of Ford and distribute approved information via this website.
As you may well understand this is not a small task and we are involved with many support groups to assist in its implementation.
In the meantime we have provided a short timeline of milestone history and look forward to updates throughout time.
1904 First Ford car, a Model A imported into Australia.
1905-1925 Ford cars imported through agents and distributors from Canada and the United States.
1918 First Fordson tractors in Australia.
1919 Ford branch office established in Melbourne by Ford of Canada
1925 Ford Motor Company of Australia formed on March 31. Production of Model T begins July 1 in leased premises in Geelong. Construction of assembly plants in Geelong, Brisbane, Fremantle and Adelaide commenced.
1926 Manufacturing and Assembly Plants opened in Geelong, Adelaide and Brisbane.
1928 Introduction of Model A.
1930 Fremantle (WA) assembly plant opened in March.
1932 Introduction of V8 models. First small English Ford, the Model Y, introduced.
1934 World’s first coupe utility, Model 40, designed and built by Ford Australia.
1935 Ford introduces Model 48 with all-steel body and fabric top. Ford 10 h.p. Prefect released.
1936 Homebush (Sydney) assembly plant opened March 17.
1937 Model 78 with first steel turret-top body on an Australian-built sedan.
1938 Ten-Ten panel van introduced.
1939-44 Lincoln Zephyr released. Geelong production facilities converted to wartime activities to manufacture landing barges, military vehicles, and ammunition materials. Brisbane (Rocklea) Plant converted to recondition aero engines. Sydney plant begins building Bren Gun Carriers.
1945 Resumption of civilian vehicle production. Ford V8 sedan launched by Prime Minister Ben Chifley. Fordson E27N Model tractor introduced.
1946 Ford Freighter utility announced – forerunner of F-Series.
1949 All new Ford V8 sedan with independent front suspension – Single Spinner model. Ford Pilot V8 imported from England. Thames range of trucks released.
1951 Consul 4 cylinder sedan.
1952 English Zephyr 6 cylinder sedan. Fordson Major Tractor introduced. Customline sedans and utilities announced.
1955 Australian-built Customline sedans and Mainline utilities fitted with OHV V8 engines built on new overhead valve V8 engine line.
1956 MkII Zephyr and Consul sedans. Utility version of Consul and Zephyr designed and produced. 400 acres (162 hectares) purchased at Broadmeadows for future expansion.
1958 Announcement of $37 million expansion. Work starts on Broadmeadows Car Assembly Plant. Modernisation program begins at Geelong. Fordson Dexta light tractor released.
1959 Broadmeadows Car Assembly Plant opened in August. Australian-built Fairlane 500, Custom 300 and Ranch Wagon.
1960 First XK Falcon sedan off line in June and the full range of Falcon sedans and wagons introduced (September). Engine machine shop installed at expanded Geelong plant.
1961 $31 million expansion plan announced. Capacity almost doubled from 50,000 to 90,000 units per year. Head Office transferred to Melbourne. Utility and Panel van added to Falcon range.
1962 100,000th Falcon produced. Fremantle assembly operations ceased – plant used for rectifications only. XL Falcon introduced. National Parts Distribution Centre opened at Broadmeadows at cost of $3 million. Tractor and Implement Division commenced operations. Fordson Super Major tractor.
1963 $27 million expansion plan announced. Ford Sales Company of Australia Limited established. Ford introduced broad acre farm implement range.
1964 XM Falcon sedans, wagons and new hardtop two-door model introduced. Broadmeadows Car Assembly Plant expanded and $2 million Head Office opened on the site. $160,000 Apprentice Training Centre at Geelong.
1965 Henry Ford II, Chairman of Ford, visits Australia. $1.5 million, 700 hectare Proving Ground opened. 70,000 mile Durability Run for XP Falcon models at Proving Ground.
1966 XR Falcon – completely new model with V8 engine option. $2 million extension to Brisbane Plant. Industrial tractor range launched.
1967 Falcon XR GT introduced. Falcon GTs takes first and second places in Bathurst 500 mile race. Australian Fairlane based on Falcon floor pan introduced. Falcons exported to Japan – Ford wins Export Award. 1,000,000th Australian-built Ford produced. Tractor and Equipment Operations moved to Broadmeadows.
1968 XT Falcon. Model 8000 and 6Y tractors released. Falcon team of three GTs wins the teams’ prize in the London-Sydney Marathon. Falcons were placed 3rd, 5th and 8th.
1969 XW Falcon. GT HO version announced.
1970 XW GT HO Phase 2 introduced. Falcon first and second at Bathurst. XY Falcon launched with Phase 3 GT HO version. 30,000th completely knocked down (CKD) vehicle exported. $45 million expansion announced. Ford Credit Australia formed.
1971 Falcon GT HO Phase cars take first three places at Bathurst.
1972 XA Falcon – first all- Australian designed Falcon – introduced including new two-door hardtop model. Crash barrier facility and emission laboratory commissioned at Lara Proving Ground. $4 million Plastics Plant announced. Ford Fiera announced for Asian market. The Blue Line tractor equipment range announced.
1973 XB Falcon launched. Including last GT model. Falcon wins Bathurst.
1974 Ford takes passenger car leadership for first six months. Ford Asia-Pacific Regional Office formed, responsible for operations in Japan, S.E. Asia, Pacific Island, New Zealand and Australia. Falcon wins Bathurst.
1975 Louisville heavy duty truck range announced – first right hand drive versions in the world. Ford Construction Equipment range released.
1976 XC Falcon launched. $72 million product investment and facility expansion program announced. 7A Tractors range released.
1977 Expansion of Plastics Plant. Famous 1-2 win for Falcons at Bathurst.
1978 Japanese sourced Courier one tonne utility. Transit Van and ‘D’ Series trucks announced. Cobra Hardtop introduced and 400 made.
1979 Henry Ford II visits Australia for launched of all-new XD Falcon, Fairlane and LTD range. Falcon sedans fitted with new lightweight plastic fuel tank, the first mass-produced car in the world to have this technology. New Trader medium duty truck range released.
1980 Ford announced $300 million investment program. Alloy head introduced for XD Falcon six cylinder range. TF Cortina launched. $13 million upgrade for Homebush (Sydney) Assembly Plant to prepare for Laser introduction. 1000 Series tractor introduced. Australian built 8401 tractor launched.
1981 Laser front-wheel-drive models launched. New F Series and Bronco 4 x 4 range released. Courier diesel-powered utility added to range. New models of Econovan and Trader. All-new Cargo replaces ‘D’ Series trucks. $70 million four cylinder engine plant commenced construction at Geelong. Ford sales total $1.126 billion; after-tax profit is $49 million. Fremantle Tractor Plant capacity doubled. Ford tractors take ‘brand name’ leadership. Falcon wins Bathurst and Touring Car Championship.
1982 New XE Falcon range launched with Watts Link rear suspension, restyled body and upgraded engine, transmission and interior trim. Meteor sedan launched, Laser models upgraded and Laser ‘S’ added. Ford sells 550 Cargo and 170 F Series trucks to Australian Army in $13 million contract. Ford corporate advertising campaign “Ford Australia, we’re moving with you” launched. Series 10 Tractor range introduced. Ford sales total $1.294 billion; after-tax profit is $66.3 million. Ford engineers win Shell Mileage Marathon with special economy vehicle at 2,599.5 miles per gallon (0.108 litres per 100 km).
1983 Ford wins Australian Design Award for Falcon, Fairlane and LTD range – first time for a motor vehicle. Electronic fuel Injected engines introduced to Falcon, Fairlane and LTD range. AR Telstar sedan and TX5 hatchback models. F Series upgraded. Cargo 11 heavy duty truck range launched. KB Laser and GB Meteor models released. Employee Involvement program launched at Homebush Assembly Plant in Sydney. Mileage Marathon world record lifted to 2,948 m.p.g. (0.095 L/100km) by Ford engineers. Sales $1,366 billion, after-tax profit $72.8 million. $55 million four cylinder engine plant announced.
1984 XF Falcon released – EEC 1V engine management system, rounded front styling, and new interior. New Econovan/Spectron models. $69.1 million investment in CAD/CAM at Geelong. Sales $1.66 billion, after-tax profit $97 million. Mileage Marathon world record broken again by Ford – 3,133 miles per gallon (.090 L/100km).
1985 Record sales of $2,069 billion (170,811 units) for after-tax profit of $103.5 million. Special KB Laser Turbo limited education released. KC Laser/GC Meteor introduced. Falcon celebrates 25th Anniversary with special model (2000 produced). Local assembly of LTL 9000 commenced. Construction of new paint facility at Broadmeadows started. Carla Zampatti Laser launched – February. New mileage record set by Ford engineers – 5,107 miles per gallon. (0.55 L/100km).
1986 Facelift of XF Falcon with power steering/4-wheel disc brakes as standard, introduction of Fairmont Ghia wagon. TX5 Turbo introduced. Meteor Wagon introduced – March. Spectron/Econovan 4 x 4 released. Force 11 tractor range introduced. Sales $1.877 billion. After-tax profit $19.2 million.
1987 KE Laser introduced – Meteor name deleted. AT Telstar released. F150 introduced with anti-lock rear brakes. Courier 4 x 4 range released. Production of new EA Falcon commenced – October. $62 million paint facility opened at Broadmeadows. $2.4 million Training Centre opened at Broadmeadows. Ford New Holland Inc formed in Australia as a separate company. All operations transferred to Cranbourne, Victoria. Total sales $2 billion – After-tax profit $48 million. Fremantle Rectification Plant closed.
1988 EA Falcon range launched – February. Fairlane/LTD models released – June. New LTS 9000 heavy duty truck replaces LN 9000. Production of Capri commenced. Ford exhibits at Expo 88, Brisbane.
1989 Capri convertible released. Four-speed automatic transmission introduced on Falcon EA Series 2/Fairlane/LTD models. Medium-sized Corsair launched. New Trader truck range. Total sales $2.8 billion, after-tax profit $134 million.
1990 Capri convertibles exported to USA in May for release in July. Falcon celebrates 30th anniversary. New models launched – KF Laser, Corsair Liftback and Capri II. New range of heavy trucks introduced including aerodynamic LTS9000 and LTS8000 and 9000 models. Total sales $2.8 billion, after-tax loss $84 million.
1991 EB Falcon launched in July with V8 engine option. 30,000th Capri shipped to US in June. Raider 4WD wagon introduced in August. The compact, five-door Festiva was introduced in October. Total sales $2.27 billion, after-tax loss $113.8 million.
1992 In April the EBII Falcon with 4-litre engine and affordable ABS brakes was launched. Tickford Vehicle Engineering (TVE) formed in a joint venture with Ford Australia. In conjunction with TVE the Capri Clubsprint was introduced in July. TVE produced the Falcon S XR6 in September and followed with the 25th Anniversary Falcon GT in October. Total sales $2.46 billion, after-tax loss $38.3 million.
1993 New product introductions: Festiva Trio 3-door – January. Falcon Longreach utility and van – April. SE Capri – July. ED Falcon – August. One-tonne Longreach GLi Ute and van – August. XL Courier upgrade – August. XR8 Sprint launched – August. XR6 wagon and XR6 utility launched – October. Falcon top-selling vehicle – Ford No. 1 in passenger sales, No. 2 overall. Total sales $2.77 billion, after tax loss $45.3 million. Company wins Australian Quality Award.
1994 New product introductions: WB Festiva – March; Probe (sourced from US) – June; EF Falcon (major
change) – August; XR Series, EF Falcon – September; KJ Laser – October. Capri assembly ceased May 19. Homebush Assembly Plant closed – September. EF Falcon wins Australian Design Award.
1995 New product introductions: NF Series II Fairlane – October; DF Series II – October; HB Mondeo – October; EF Series II Falcon – November. Profit $201.7 million. Vehicle sales 137,800 – 21.5% market share.
1996 New product introductions: SU Probe – March; DN Taurus – March; NL Fairlane – September; DL LTD – September; KJ Series II Laser – December; HC Mondeo – December. Profit $217.3 million. Vehicle sales 132,200 – 20.3% market share.
1997 New product introductions: WD Festiva – January; DP Taurus – January; SV Probe – February; EL Falcon – March; EL 30th anniversary GT – March; KJ Series III Laser – December. Profit $179.5 million. Vehicle sales 130,200 – 18% market share. Market leadership in total vehicles as well as passenger vehicles.
1998 New product introductions: Completely new AU Falcon – September; WF Festiva September; Brisbane Assembly Plant closed. Profit $57 million. Vehicle sales 128,800 – 15.9% market share. Falcon (Bright/Richards) wins Bathurst 1000 and all three Indy Car Grand Prix support races (Larkham)
1999 New Product introductions: HD Mondeo – January; AU Fairlane – March; KN Laser – March; AU LTD – June; AU Utility range – June; Cougar – October; TE Series FTE sedans – October; Ka – November. Ford Tickford Experience (FTE) set up to market specialist vehicles. Ford Discovery Centre dedicated by Edsel Ford III and opened in Geelong by Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett (April). Geoff Polites replaces David Morgan as President of Ford Australia.
2000 Ford Australia 75th Anniversary; AU Falcon Series II released – April; 40th Anniversary of Falcon – June.
2001 Escape launched in Australia – February; Mustang re-introduced to Australia – February; Ford Alive educational program launched – May; F-250 and F-350 trucks introduced – July; AU Falcon T-Series released – November;
2002 Focus launched in Australia, replacing Laser – October; All new BA Falcon released – October; New Falcon wins Wheels Magazine Car of the Year and Best Family Car Award from major automobile clubs — Nov/Dec; Ford Performance Vehicles replaces Tickford as Ford’s performance partner and announces the return of the GT Falcon.
2004 Ford Territory Launched and wins major motoring awards including Wheels Car of the Year
2005 2nd Generation European designed Focus is launched alongside updated BF Falcon
2006 Ranger Launched, Turbo added to popular Territory range. Craig Lowndes wins Bathurst in a Falcon.
2007 European Mondeo relaunched onto Australian market, huge facility upgrades at Proving Ground, Geelong stamping plant. Research & Development Centre opened in Geelong
2008 All new FG Falcon released, Craig Lowndes wins Bathurst
2009 New Fiesta released, Ford announces $230 million of new investment for efficient and enviromently friendly engines
2010 Third generation Focus is shown at Detroit Motor Show for the first time.

You forgot to mention the record $290 million loss for Ford Aus in 2011. Perhaps that, more than all of the above, has more of an effect on the poor workers facing the sack.

[johnydep]

Originally Posted by jpd80

Right......
We've just had pages and pages of people opening up on FoA and its failures,
You could count on one hand or one finger the posts on here "blaming " buyers...

See, there's a difference between acknowledging that the market wants something other than large sedans
and "blaming" buyers for Falcon's woes.

Mate, you've got to take the blinkers off to have a proper debate. Picking out single items from a paragraph is easy work for someone wanting to put things out of context and make themselves right all the time. Try doing it with the all the information.

Ford manufacturing can still be saved and increase its size, but the voting consumer must start asking for answers from the right people - the industry leaders; State and Federal Governments, Ford Head Office, the Unions. These people need to sit down and work out a plan without their agenda's getting involved. If we start demanding answers from them, Ford manufacturing has a chance. If we keep blaming the advertising, the buying public, fleet sales, etc it's all over just like Mitsubishi in Adelaide.

If you go back to my earliest post on this forum, and the ones in-between, then the recent ones; I have always pointed out that Ford, and other manufacturers, need to export to survive. Plus a raft of other debatable information.

Time for you to start reading, with your mind open. Here's yesterday's posts:

Originally Posted by johnydep

Sadly, Limited Edition models do not save car companies. Neither does Government fleets and hand-outs or advertising.

None of this is new, it happened to Chrysler, Nissan and Mitsubishi; go look back through the news articles of the time, everything said here was said and tried then.

The Button plan from the Hawke/Keating Labor Government show what the long term out come would be for the future of the car industry in Australia - maximum of 2 manufacturers, with bulk exports.

Has the plan been followed and improved on? No.

Instead of throwing money to any company that cries hardship, how about picking some winners. Then directing money for research and development, with guidelines and guarantees from company heads.

No offense, but too many people have their heads in the sand. They criticise and knock genuine debate down, without taking a good hard look at the future prospects.

Ford Aus had their chance in 2004, with the introduction of the Territory. They blew it with poor quality control, and a half hearted export program.

This all comes down to poor management, from Ford, our MP's and Governments. Don't get distracted by the petty excuses of poor advertising, Aussie buying practice, etc.

We keep going around in circles, complaining but never acting. How about sending your thoughts to the people that can make change - MP's, Political parties, Car manufacturers. Oh well, maybe next time

http://www.fordforums.com.au/showthr...1356086&page=5

http://www.fordforums.com.au/showpos...&postcount=142

http://www.fordforums.com.au/showthread.php?t=11355091

Originally Posted by johnydep

If it was that simple, Aussie car manufacturers would not have a problem selling cars.

At the end of the day, 99% of consumers shop with their wallet not their heart.

I purchased the first model Territory, and it's been a great car, even after going through hell to get major issues looked at (see Territory forum). My intention was to trade it in when the Turbo 6 speed came out; that never happened due to quality issues and the way that Ford dealt with my problems (front suspension out of whack, tyre scrub, ABS malfunction).

Time softened my view and we went shopping for another Ford, but this time a small car. The Terri stays, and we buy a fuel efficient car (Ford and Holden lost on that one).

Ford are not losing sales because of advertising, or due to customer lack of knowledge. When someone is going to spend a large amount of their money, they do a lot of research and ask a lot of questions.

• Length of warranty
• Quality
• Cost of purchase
• Cost to run and maintain
• Creature comforts
• Steering, turning circle, parking
• Customer relations

Ford are failing with certain items on that list.

The battle of Aussie vs Asian has been won, we lost. No one cares anymore where the car is built, or if it's front wheel or rear wheel drive. They care about the warranty period, the quality, the fuel consumption, the after sales service, etc.

Ford, GMH and Toyota Aust have to find new and better ways to attract buyers.

Sorry, but the people that love the Ford Falcon and it's rear drive set up don't seem to purchase new models; well, not enough to matter.

Originally Posted by johnydep

Wow.... I'm at a loss for words.

Is the Ford marketing department posting on here?

How can you blame the public for the poor sales? Does Coke start telling it's consumers that they're to blame when sales figures drop?

Is this just a Ford Australia issue? The consumer is against them, the public don't understand, consumers are blinded by cheap imports, its the free market that's the cause, no other country has this problem, it's the whingers on the forums, its....blah blah

My god, no wonder they're in trouble; it's everyone's fault, except theirs.

[KIWI-1]

Originally Posted by Keepleft

Mutter, might limit our choice of future NSW Highway Patrol vehicles somewhat.

Damn.

They will use Commodores, same as Victoria. A global car developed with police for police.

"However, the Caprice PPV notched up one of its best sales months in April, with 174 deliveries as Chevrolet filled outstanding orders from police forces in the US, equating to an annualised sales rate of about 2000 units."

http://www.goauto.com.au/mellor/mell...2579F800270B38

2013 will also see Chevrolet SuperSport (Commodores) competeing in the NASCAR series and on sale in the US and Canada. Not bad for a 6-year old model? I wonder whether Yanks put Holden badges on theirs?

[cortinagt]

Originally Posted by jpd80

None of which is important since the bulk of Falcon's sales were to fleets, most people
are now buying Falcons second hand and saving thousands of dollars by doing that.




The reason car prices have remained reasonably flat for the past 15 years is entirely due to
the reductions in tariffs and increased competition, you can't put the wishes of a few fans
ahead of the greater good of lower cost vehicles to the Australian public.

How about putting 10s of thousands out of a job and make our country even more reliant on the mining industry. If manufacturing goes the way of the UK we only have ourselves to.blame.

[KIWI-1]

Originally Posted by cortinagt

How about putting 10s of thousands out of a job and make our country even more reliant on the mining industry. If manufacturing goes the way of the UK we only have ourselves to.blame.

How about putting 10s of thousands into jobs designing, developing and improving automotive products the world needs? Back in the 80s Faulding Pharmaceuticals realized they could not afford to develop and test new drugs so they looked at those nearing the end of patent and were extremely successful putting their R&D $$$ into developing better methods of delivery.
FoA (and other manufacturers) should do the same.

[cortinagt]

Originally Posted by KIWI-1

How about putting 10s of thousands into jobs designing, developing and improving automotive products the world needs? Back in the 80s Faulding Pharmaceuticals realized they could not afford to develop and test new drugs so they looked at those nearing the end of patent and were extremely successful putting their R&D $$$ into developing better methods of delivery.
FoA (and other manufacturers) should do the same.

To some extent they have already done this with many design projects based here like Ranger and some elements of the Focus. They aren't and never will be 10s of thousands like the numbers involved directly and indirectly in the three car manufacturers.

While this thread looks like its full of negative Ford fans I think Toyota and Holden are also at risk. Again I think the decisions have already been made. They may say publically FoA didn't want the Focus but that just doesnt make sense.

[PridenJoy]

Originally Posted by KIWI-1

They will use Commodores, same as Victoria.

Vicpol have been using Commodores only for a number of years but recently i have been seeing many FG2 police cars, maybe a new deal between Vicpol and Ford signed recently.

[jpd80]

Originally Posted by cortinagt

How about putting 10s of thousands out of a job and make our country even more reliant on the mining industry. If manufacturing goes the way of the UK we only have ourselves to.blame.

Rule 101 of manufacturing is build products people want to buy.....

[KIWI-1]

Originally Posted by jpd80

Rule 101 of manufacturing is build products people want to buy.....

+1
and
Rule 101 of marketing is ask people to buy them....

[I6DOHC]

Originally Posted by stevz

Spot on.

There is absolutely NO excuse for governments to be purchasing imported cars.

Those who do so should be exposed and shamed.

+1 ^.....This is exactly right.

It has to stop. If the government isn't going to support Australian manufacturing then it's doomed. I think it's time to turn the screws on all levels of government.

Apologies for cross post, but this is from a post I did earlier on ecoboost thread, but relevant to the above.

For interest the actual breakdown of the federal government vehicle usage is as per the attached image from this web site :http://www.finance.gov.au/vehicle-le...tatistics.html

In summary the Federal government fleet is 88.5% made up of passenger & light commerical vehicles. Ford/Holden/Toyota locally produce these types of vehicles. Ecoboost => Passenger vehicle.

Currently only 35.05% of the fleet is australian made.

The maths is simple. The Australian government should have 12492 Australian made vehicles on the books, instead they only have 4948.

Maybe not criminal, but it surely isn't very 'Australian'?

As a matter of interest I am going to research this across ALL levels of government. It's not just State & Federal, but the local councils also have a role to play in supporting Australian manufacturing. Perhaps a topic for another thread....

[jpd80]

Originally Posted by johnydep

Mate, you've got to take the blinkers off to have a proper debate. Picking out single items from a paragraph is easy work for someone wanting to put things out of context and make themselves right all the time. Try doing it with the all the information.
:

My disagreement is with your assertion that most on this forum are blaming buyers for Falcons woes.

Clearly that is wrong, as most on here have been hammering Ford and its market department.
and if you had been following my posts for that past few months, you'd know my POV's are
both informed and different to most here..


Export plans for Falcon have been looked at no fewer than three times in the past decade
and each time the answer has come back the same, the figures don't add up.

Quite a few of FoA's engineers are working on a new platform for FAPA (Not the T6 SUV)
It's not your usual FWD / small vehicle and is aimed at significant markets....

[BroadyFord]

Originally Posted by cortinagt

While this thread looks like its full of negative Ford fans I think Toyota and Holden are also at risk. Again I think the decisions have already been made. They may say publically FoA didn't want the Focus but that just doesnt make sense.

Actually, both Holden and Toyota have committed to long term manufacturing post-2016.

It's Ford's demise that could put them at risk in terms of disruption to the supply chain.

[jpd80]

Originally Posted by KIWI-1

+1
and
Rule 101 of marketing is ask people to buy them....

No, that's advertising.

Marketing is making products available that satisfy customers while making profits...

[XRtowcar]

Should FoA be making the Ranger here now as the off road ute market has larger sales than the large passenger car market.
Save importing the buggers from Thailand.
Would be a responsible way to stop building Falcon.

[Brazen]

Originally Posted by XRtowcar

Should FoA be making the Ranger here now as the off road ute market has larger sales than the large passenger car market.
Save importing the buggers from Thailand.
Would be a responsible way to stop building Falcon.

Bingo, just hope Bureala isnt around to cancel it.

[Joe5619]

Originally Posted by XRtowcar

Should FoA be making the Ranger here now as the off road ute market has larger sales than the large passenger car market.
Save importing the buggers from Thailand.
Would be a responsible way to stop building Falcon.

Is sounds nice, but with the Thai plant already setup & import tax’s are nil. Why would Ford do this? It is just not a realist plan if you ask me.

I'm starting to think Mondeo is the only hope we'll have for local manufacturing. No-one in our region is building this car or plant form!!

[jpd80]

Originally Posted by Joe5619

Is sounds nice, but with the Thai plant already setup & import tax’s are nil. Why would Ford do this? It is just not a realist plan if you ask me.

I'm starting to think Mondeo is the only hope we'll have for local manufacturing. No-one in our region is building this car or plant form!!

something you might find interesting, the 2013 fusion is not just a cosmetic of the current Mondeo.
Internally, the Fusion now has arond 25mm more shoulder room and more rear leg room, making it
about the same size internally as the much bigger and heavier D3 Taurus, so you can see that the
2013 Fusion / MK 5 Mondeo is a much better mousetrap and most likely will fill a future role in Aust. (fingers crossed)

[Vormund]

Hi first post here, actually looking at buying an XR6

Anyway this is truly sad if Falcon dies, its a wonderful car really. I'm surprised it hasn't formed the basis of a Mustang/Lincoln/Crown Vic replacement. Its a no brainer really but that eludes Detroit. sigh.

Originally Posted by Brazen

Whatever happens, the worst thing to happen to Ford Australia and manufacturing in this country was the cancellation of the C1 production in this country. I still remember when Bureala announced it cancelled. It was a very sad day.

I think from now on, Ford Australia has to assume the worst, they should be assuming that Falcon and large cars wont recover and therefore be bidding with government co-investment on a new line at Broadmeadows to make a global car alongside the current Falcon - this should be their imperative.

Pity on the Focus, I agree, and now Holden has a fall back car - theoretically they could build the Volt here too since it shares a platform with the Cruze.

Anyway, I would think making the new Mondeo (and any SUV that is on the same platform) would be the best bet going forward. It would be awesome if FoA could convert it into RWD.

edit: just noticed two of you had the same idea at roughly the same time.