Analysis: Ford's Wayne assembly plant pumps $1.8B into Michigan's economy

Dearborn — Ford Motor Co.'s revamped Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne — seen as a model for auto factories in the future — supports 24,000 statewide jobs and injects $1.8 billion annually into Michigan's economy, according to analysis from the Center for Automotive Research.

The plant, dubbed by CAR as "the new global standard for flexible manufacturing" after a $770 million investment, produces five different Ford models — including a hybrid, plug-in hybrid and an all-electric — and will manufacture 350,000 vehicles this year.

CAR's analysis was introduced at a supplier matchmaking event at Ford's Dearborn campus to highlight Michigan's automotive supplier base, which includes 2,600 facilities that work with Ford. CAR's analysis also found that opportunities for Tier 2 and Tier 3 auto suppliers in Michigan are growing.

"Michigan has a wealth of businesses that can help Ford continue growing as a global automotive leader," said Joe Hinrichs, Ford's president of the Americas.

CAR's findings show there are still many parts for Michigan Assembly Plant that are sourced from outside the U.S. and Canada, including approximately $500 million in supplier spending from outside North America.

Sourcing those parts closer to the assembly plant in Wayne could bring financial benefits for both Ford and the supplier, though would not result in any real increase in employment or economic activity, CAR said.

The Michigan Assembly plant, home to about 5,000 workers on three shifts, manufactures the Ford Focus, Focus Electric, Focus ST, C-Max Hybrid and C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid.

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