Post by TonyV on May 12, 2010 1:05:16 GMT -5
Last Updated: May 11. 2010 3:17PM .
Ford Fiesta production launches in Mexico
Bryce G. Hoffman / The Detroit News
Production of Ford Motor Co.'s new 2011 Fiesta subcompact has begun at its former truck factory in Cuautitlán, Mexico, the Dearborn-based automaker says.
The plant is the first of three North American pickup factories to be retooled to produce European small cars for the U.S. market.
"Our investment in Cuautitlán brings 'One Ford' global vehicles to life in North America and allows more customers to experience even more of our high-quality, fuel-efficient vehicles," said Jim Farley, Ford's group vice president of Canada, Mexico and South America. "Small cars are the fastest-growing product segment around the world, and Ford is answering the call with fun-to-drive new cars such as Fiesta, Fusion and the new Focus that is coming soon."
Mexican President Felipe Calderón Hinojosa and the Governor of State of Mexico Enrique Peña Nieto attended the launch ceremony at the Cuautitlán factory.
"Ford of Mexico has a great team and a strong track record for producing high-quality vehicles, and we are eager to deliver outstanding new cars for an entire continent of customers," said Eduardo Serrano Berry, who heads Ford's operations in Mexico.
The Fiesta is already being produced in Europe and Asia and has been a big hit in those markets. The sporty subcompact should begin arriving in U.S. showrooms by the end of June.