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.
No 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
