When was the last Ford built in Australia?
The last Ford vehicle to be manufactured in Australia rolled off the production line in 2016, marking the end of an era for the iconic American automaker's presence in the country. This article delves into the details surrounding the closure of Ford's Australian manufacturing operations and the factors that led to this significant event.
The End of Ford's Australian Manufacturing
After more than 90 years of producing vehicles in Australia, Ford announced in 2013 that it would be shutting down its manufacturing plants in the country by 2016. The decision was driven by a combination of factors, including declining sales, the high cost of production, and the increasing dominance of imported vehicles in the Australian market.
Ford's manufacturing operations in Australia had been a significant part of the country's automotive industry for decades, with the company's Broadmeadows and Geelong plants producing a range of popular models, including the Falcon, Fairlane, and Territory. However, the changing market conditions and the rise of more affordable imported vehicles made it increasingly difficult for Ford to maintain a profitable manufacturing presence in Australia.
The Last Ford Falcon
The final Ford vehicle to roll off the production line in Australia was a Ford Falcon, the company's long-running and iconic sedan model. The last Falcon, known as the FG X, was produced on October 7, 2016, marking the end of Ford's manufacturing operations in the country.
The closure of Ford's Australian manufacturing plants was a significant event, not only for the company but also for the local communities that had relied on the industry for employment and economic stability. Thousands of workers were affected by the decision, and the ripple effects were felt throughout the automotive supply chain and related industries.
The Shift to Imports
With the closure of Ford's Australian manufacturing plants, the company's presence in the country has shifted to a focus on importing and distributing vehicles. Ford now relies on its global production network to supply the Australian market, a trend that has been mirrored by other major automakers operating in the country.
The shift towards imported vehicles has had a significant impact on the Australian automotive industry, with many local manufacturers and suppliers struggling to adapt to the changing market conditions. However, the transition has also opened up new opportunities for consumers, who now have access to a wider range of vehicle models and features at more competitive prices.
Conclusion
The last Ford built in Australia marked the end of an era for the company's manufacturing presence in the country. The decision to shut down local production was driven by a combination of economic and market factors, leading to a shift towards importing vehicles and a significant impact on the Australian automotive industry. While the closure of Ford's Australian plants was a significant event, it also represents the ongoing evolution of the global automotive landscape.
When was the last Ford Fairlane made in Australia?
13 December 2007
In May 2007, it was announced that production of the Fairlane and LTD would cease as a decline in sales in its market segment rendered continued production of long-wheelbase models unsustainable. The last Fairlane was produced on 13 December 2007.
Why did Ford Australia stop?
End of Australian production
By about July 2009, Ford Australia had received permission from Detroit to add a new small car to its Falcon production line. On 23 May 2013, Ford Australia announced that it would leave the Australian market after 88 years due to uncompetitive manufacturing costs and lacklustre sales.
What happened to Ford in Australia?
End of Australian production
Ford Australia stamping plant in Geelong was closed in 2016. In 2009, the parent Ford company, seeking to avoid the Chapter 11 bankruptcy that had already befallen General Motors and Chrysler, began abandoning overseas projects.
When was the last Ford LTD made in Australia?
Ford LTD may refer to: Ford LTD (Australia), a full-size car manufactured by Ford Australia from 1973 to 2007.
Do they still make Fords in Australia?
Ford Australia was one of Ford's five product development centres globally. Since the end of factory operations in 2016, it fully imports cars and trucks for the Asia/Pacific region after the closure of its Australian operations.
When did Toyota stop making cars in Australia?
3 October 2017
The plant closed on 3 October 2017, marking the end of Toyota's automobile manufacturing in Australia.
Where is the 2024 Ford Territory made?
China
The Ford Territory is a compact crossover SUV produced by Ford through the JMC-Ford joint venture in China since 2018. It reuses the nameplate from the previous Australian market Territory crossover, with no relations between them.
What does LTD stand for on a Ford?
Limited
Back in 1965, Ford opted to name one particular high-level trim “Limited”, which shortened nicely to “LTD” on the 1965 Ford Galaxie. By the late 1970s, the Galaxie moniker was gone, but the “LTD” trim level lived on. Shown here is the 1965 Ford Galaxie 500 LTD four-door hardtop. (
When was the last Ford Territory made in Australia?
7 October 2016
The Ford Territory is a mid-size crossover SUV built by Ford Australia that was introduced in April 2004 and produced until 7 October 2016. It was the only SUV built in Australia and Ford's first large three-row crossover SUV.
When was the last Ford made in Australia?
The final Ford Falcon, a blue XR6, rolled off the production line on 7 October 2016.
