The new vehicle is in addition to the EcoSport small SUV currently built in Craiova, plus Ford’s 1.0‑liter EcoBoost engine. The model and start date for production of the second vehicle will be confirmed closer to launch, Ford said in a statement.
“This new investment will add to our evolving line-up of exciting new models manufactured in Europe and continues the transformation of our Craiova facility. The addition of this second vehicle is a testament to the operational flexibility of our Craiova plant and reflects the strong partnerships we have with local suppliers and the community,” said Steven Armstrong, president and CEO, Ford of Europe, Middle East & Africa.
Ford’s overall investment in its Romanian manufacturing operations – including Tuesday’s EUR200 million investment announcement – is nearly EUR1.5 billion since acquiring the Craiova facility in 2008. Significant upgrades have recently been made to Craiova’s vehicle operations, with more than 550 robots installed at the facility to further improve efficiency and quality in the paint, trim and chassis, and body shops the company said.
To support the new vehicle, Ford Romania expects to hire approximately 1,500 basic and skilled operators for a third shift to increase the current workforce. This will bring the total workforce to approximately 5,900 employees.
“Investing in Craiova’s future is a sign of Ford’s trust in the Romanian government’s promises to deliver key upgrades infrastructure and logistics improvements, which are needed to maintain the global competitiveness of the Ford Craiova manufacturing operations. Any delay would significantly constrain Ford’s and its suppliers’ efforts to move increased volumes of vehicles and components,” the company said.
The Craiova-built EcoSport, launched in 2017, is sold across Europe and features a sophisticated cabin, a powerful and fuel-efficient new 1.5-liter EcoBlue diesel, Intelligent All Wheel Drive and sporty ST-Line model.