Ford's Innovative Thinking Maximizes Resources at Refitted Michigan Plant

Nov. 20, 2012 - PRLog -- “Bigger is better” is not always the motto that Detroit automakers are following these days. Instead, Ford is leading the way by refitting its Michigan Assembly Plant to build gas models, electric hybrids, and plug-in hybrid vehicles all on the same production line. It's important to note that this plant is the first in the world equipped to assemble all three types of powertrains, including new C-Max vehicles.
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The C-Max Hyrbid and C-Max Energi models are a major focus of this forward thinking strategy, but they aren't the only autos constructed at this plant. In addition, workers have already built the Focus, Focus ST, and Focus Electric on site, too. Perhaps what's even more impressive is the fact that 4 out of 5 of these vehicles return more than 40 mpg, which makes this the plant a flagship example for fuel-efficient lines.

All of these vehicles share a common base structure: the C-platform. The complexity of this building process comes clearer when considering that there are 1,074 different parts between the Focus and C-MAX cars. To this factor in 604 work stations need to be reconfigured along the 3-mile line in a building that is 5-million square feet. Ford knew it would be worth the effort, which is why the invested $550 million into updating the facility. It took 4 years of planning and training, but it's been a major achievement, especially considering that C-MAX models began rolling off the line in early November.

The C-Max Hybrid is a hatchback that is available in two trims of SE and SEL. It sports a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that makes 141 hp and 121 lb-ft of torque. In addition to the electric motor powered by a lithium-ion battery pack, it can generate up to 188 hp with when working with its automatic continuously variable transmission. Best of all, it delivers 47 mpg in the city, on the highway, and combined -- a number that few automakers can come close to.

To learn more about the advances of the new C-Max Hybrid and Energi models, visit Arlington Heights Ford at 801 West Dundee Road in Arlington Heights, IL.
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