Kansas City Ford Assembly Plant

The Ford Motor Company has a significant presence in Kansas City with its automotive manufacturing plant. The history of the Kansas City Ford Assembly Plant dates back several decades. Here’s an overview of its development:

Establishment of the Kansas City Assembly Plant:

Ford’s presence in Kansas City began in 1951 when the company opened its Kansas City Assembly Plant. The plant was built on a 1.2 million square foot site and initially produced cars such as the Ford Custom and Ford Fairlane.

Expansion and Model Changes:

Over the years, the Kansas City Assembly Plant underwent various expansions and upgrades to accommodate the changing demands of the automotive industry. It produced several models, including the Ford Galaxie, Ford Thunderbird, and Ford LTD.

Shift to Truck Production:

In the late 1970s, the Kansas City plant transitioned its focus to producing trucks instead of cars. This shift was in response to the growing popularity of trucks and the changing market demands. The plant began manufacturing Ford F-Series trucks, which became a significant part of its production line.

Relocation and Renaming:

In 1997, Ford made a significant investment in the Kansas City plant by relocating it to a new facility in Claycomo, a suburb of Kansas City. The new plant was built on a 4.7 million square foot site, allowing for increased production capacity and improved efficiency. With the move, the plant was renamed the Kansas City Assembly Plant.

Production of New Models:

The factory continued to manufacture Ford trucks, including the popular F-150 series. In recent years, it also began producing the Ford Transit vans, which cater to commercial and cargo transportation needs.

Continued Upgrades and Investments:

Ford has consistently invested in the assembly plant to modernize its operations and increase its competitiveness. Upgrades include the implementation of advanced manufacturing technologies, automation, and energy-efficient practices.

Economic Impact:

The Ford auto plant in Kansas City has had a significant economic impact on the region. It has created numerous job opportunities, supported local suppliers and businesses, and contributed to the overall economic growth of Kansas City.

Throughout its history, the Ford auto plant in Kansas City has played a vital role in Ford’s manufacturing operations, producing popular vehicles and adapting to changing market demands. It has been an important contributor to the automotive industry in the United States and has helped shape the economic landscape of Kansas City.