Ford Is Spending Billions To Build Super Duty Pickups In Canada

Ford has abandoned its earlier plans to produce electric vehicles at its Oakville Assembly Complex (OAC) in Ontario, Canada, after costs ballooned from an initial $1.8 billion to nearly $5 billion. The automaker now intends to manufacture gas and diesel-powered Super Duty pickups at the facility, marking a significant shift from its 2020 commitment to building electric SUVs like the Explorer and Aviator EVs. Ford Canada confirmed that pre-production assembly of the trucks has begun, with full production expected to start later this year. The revised investment includes $2.3 billion for the new stamping plant and assembly line, alongside additional spending on related projects. Government support has also increased, with federal funding rising to $340 million, though provincial contributions remain unclear. The plant will produce the full Super Duty line, though Ford has not confirmed whether any trucks will be exported to the U.S. or if production will remain solely for the Canadian market, where the F-Series has been the best-selling truck for 60 consecutive years. Production at the Oakville plant will focus on the 6.8-liter and 7.3-liter gas V8 engines, sourced from Ford’s Windsor plant, as well as the 6.7-liter diesel engine manufactured in Mexico. The facility aims to produce around 100,000 units annually, with Ford stating it is 'laser-focused on delivering a high-quality launch later this year.' The decision follows Chevrolet’s recent move to restart Silverado production in Oshawa, Ontario, meaning two of the three major heavy-duty truck manufacturers will now build pickups in Canada. The shift comes after Ford canceled plans for the next-generation Edge and Lincoln Nautilus, moving the latter’s production to China. Workers at the Oakville plant, who numbered 4,200 in 2020, have begun recall notices as Ford prepares for Super Duty production. The automaker has not specified whether the trucks will be the 2026 or refreshed 2027 models but has emphasized a focus on quality and timely delivery.