Romania - Ford's Craiova assembly plant is to receive a €200m investment and 1,500 new jobs as part of the OEM's plans to add an as yet unnamed second vehicle the factory.
The plant currently assembles Ford's EcoSport small SUV as well as its 1.0‑litre EcoBoost engine. Details of the second model and start of production will be confirmed closer to launch, Ford says.
Steven Armstrong, Ford's president and CEO for Europe, Middle East and Africa said: “The addition of this second vehicle is a testament to the operational flexibility of our Craiova plant and reflects the strong partnerships we have with local suppliers and the community.”
Ford acquired the Craiova facility in 2008 and the latest announcement means that overall investment in the Romanian manufacturing operations will reach nearly €1.5bn.
Recent upgrades including installation of more than 550 robots in a widespread upgrade of operations from body and paintshop to trim and chassis.
To support production of the new model, Ford Romania expects to hire approximately 1,500 basic and skilled operators for a third shift. The current workforce numbers around 4,400 employed at its world-class vehicle and engine assembly operations.
