Futura Will Be Basis for Ten Future Models
Ford Motor Co., just on the cusp of an exciting product offensive that will include overhauls of such venerable mainstays as the Mustang, has announced it will build its 2006 Ford Futura sedan, to replace the Taurus, at its Hermosillo facility in Sonora, Mexico.
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| The upcoming Ford Futura will be built at the soon to be expanded Hermosillo facility in Sonora, Mexico. (Photo: Ford Motors) |
Currently the Focus ZX3, ZX5 and SVT are built at Hermosillo. Ford has not announced if Focus production will be moved when the Futura begins construction in 2005, but the forthcoming expansion, increasing capacity to 300,000 units per annum, may allow both cars to be built side by side.
The updated plant will feature Ford's next-generation flexible manufacturing system, allowing up to eight separate models to be built off of two platforms, which makes it possible, in theory, to continue building the Focus along with the Futura.
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| The Futura architecture will be based on the current Mazda6 platform, and be used for up to 10 new models being developed by Ford. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
More likely though is the inclusion of its upcoming large car, the 500. As well, the Futura's overall architecture will be the basis for new Lincoln and Mercury models, which will most likely share the Hermosillo facility.
The Futura's architecture, based on the capable Madza6 platform, is said to be promised to up to 10 new models being developed for Ford, Lincoln and Mercury brands.
Bringing its Tier 1 suppliers into close proximity in order to speed up parts development and integration, Ford will also devote 1.75 million square feet of surrounding land for a supplier park, with names such as Faurecia, Lear Corp. and Magna Cosma International already committing to the project. Supporting the local economy, 16 Mexican suppliers have also been chosen to supply the Futura.