Where do Australian Fords come from?
Australian Fords have a rich history and a unique origin story that reflects the evolution of the automotive industry in Australia. In this article, we’ll explore where Australian Fords are manufactured, their historical significance, and how the production landscape has changed over the years.
The History of Ford Manufacturing in Australia
Ford has been a significant player in the Australian automotive industry since the early 20th century. The company established its first Australian assembly plant in Geelong, Victoria, in 1925. This marked the beginning of a long-standing relationship between Ford and Australian car enthusiasts. Over the decades, Ford Australia became known for producing iconic vehicles such as the Ford Falcon and the Ford Territory, which were designed and manufactured specifically for the Australian market.
Where Were Australian Fords Manufactured?
For much of its history, Ford Australia operated two major manufacturing facilities:
- Geelong, Victoria: This plant was responsible for producing engines and other components. It played a crucial role in Ford's Australian operations for decades.
- Broadmeadows, Victoria: Located near Melbourne, this facility was the primary assembly plant for Ford vehicles in Australia. It produced some of the most beloved Australian Fords, including the Falcon and Territory.
These facilities were the backbone of Ford's Australian manufacturing operations until the company ceased local production in 2016.
The End of Local Manufacturing
In October 2016, Ford Australia closed its manufacturing plants in Geelong and Broadmeadows, marking the end of an era. This decision was driven by various factors, including high production costs, a small domestic market, and increasing competition from imported vehicles. Since then, Ford has transitioned to importing vehicles into Australia while maintaining a strong presence in the country through design and engineering operations.
Ford's Current Role in Australia
Although Ford no longer manufactures vehicles in Australia, the company continues to play a significant role in the automotive industry. Ford Australia operates a state-of-the-art design and engineering center in Victoria, where it develops vehicles for global markets. This includes work on the Ford Ranger and Everest, which are produced overseas but benefit from Australian expertise in design and engineering.
Conclusion
While Australian Fords are no longer manufactured locally, their legacy lives on through the vehicles that were produced and the ongoing contributions of Ford Australia to the global automotive industry. Today, Ford enthusiasts in Australia can still enjoy a wide range of imported models, many of which are influenced by the innovative work of Australian designers and engineers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What country is Ford native to?
United States
Ford Motor Company (commonly known as Ford) is an American multinational automobile manufacturer headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan, United States. It was founded by Henry Ford and incorporated on June 16, 1903.
Where are Australian Ford Mustangs made?
All vehicles build by Mustang Motorsport are licenced and certified by these brands and are exactly the same as the vehicles that are built and sold overseas, the only difference is they are factory right hand drive and built by our passionate Team here in Melbourne!
Where did Ford Australia come from?
Ford Motor Company of Australia Pty Limited is a subsidiary of Ford Motor Company, founded in Geelong, Victoria, in 1925. The company designs, engineers, and imports award-winning and best-selling cars, SUVs and trucks.
Why did Ford shut down in Australia?
The shutdown date, 7 October, 2016, was announced in 2013. At the time Bob Graziano, the president and chief executive of Ford Australia, said rapidly declining sales of the Falcon meant “manufacturing locally was no longer viable.” There will be a staff function at Broadmeadows on Friday, and a raffle.
How much is the 2024 Mustang in Australia?
2024 Ford Mustang GT Price (From $76,990 plus On Road Costs)
The GT is available as a 6-speed manual (standard version) or 10-speed automatic (around $4000 option). The base spec model is a GT Fastback coupe, but the GT Convertible can be ordered at an additional cost.
What was the last model Ford made in Australia?
XR6
The final Ford Falcon, a blue XR6, rolled off the production line on 7 October 2016.
What is the Australian version of Ford?
Ford Australia produced a range of full-size luxury cars alongside the Falcon for most of its production history. These models were named the Fairlane and the LTD. The first Fairlane, released in 1959, was an Australian-assembled version of the US Fairlane.
What was the last Australian made Ford?
The final Ford Falcon, a blue XR6, rolled off the production line on 7 October 2016.
Does Ford have a factory in Australia?
The last Australian-built Ford has rolled off the production line, bringing an end a decades-long history of car manufacturing in the country for the company. About 600 workers have lost their jobs, in Broadmeadows and Geelong, two years after Ford first announced that its days in Australia were numbered.
Where are most Fords manufactured?
Ford Assembly Plant Locations
- Chicago, IL: Ford Explorer, Ford Taurus, Lincoln MKS.
- Flat Rock, MI: Ford Fusion, Ford Mustang.
- Kansas City, MO: Ford F-150, Ford Transit.
- Louisville, KY: Ford Escape, Lincoln MKC.
- Wayne, MI: Ford Focus, Ford C-Max.
- Avon Lake, OH: Ford E-Series.
