Ford has begun building the current-generation Focus line in Argentina, writes just-auto correspondent Fernando Calmon.
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Ford’s facilities are in Pacheco on the outskirts of Buenos Aires, from which more than 70% of production is exported to Latin American markets.
This five-door hatchbackwas displayed at a ceremony to inaugurate the assembly line at whcih VIP guests included Argentine president Cristina Kirchner. The car will be shown to Brazilian and Argentine auto writers on 4 September, in Argentina.
Ford will spend $US156.5m on production of a new car and pick-up truck targeting the Latin American market, just-auto reported last week.
The automaker, which already makes the Focus sedan and Ranger pick-up in Argentina, was expected to begin production on one of the new models in 2008, with the other scheduled to start a year later, Dominic DiMarco, president of Ford’s South American division, told Reuters.
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By GlobalDataNo other details about the models were given.
Reuters noted that Ford’s investment came as Argentina, Latin America’s third-largest car manufacturer, is enjoying a revival of its auto industry after the country’s 2001-2002 economic crisis.
South America automakers shorten new model delays
