Ford Explorer starts production in Russia

 

Ford has begun production of vehicles at the assembly plant Explorer Elabuga Sollers in Russia.

This is the first time this SUV is produced entirely outside of U.S. territory. All vehicles manufactured in this Explorer will be sold in the Russian market.

                                                   Ford Explorer was manufactured in Russia

"Russia is on track to become the biggest market in Europe and opens a huge growth opportunity," Ted Cannis, president and CEO, Ford Sollers said. "We recognize the SUV sales continue to grow as Russian consumers prefer the appearance and performance of this versatile vehicle in inclement weather conditions and challenging roads."

Ford said it would hire 500 additional employees to the number of 1,500 employees serving Explorer production lines.

Meanwhile, the Chicago plant will continue to produce Explorer vehicles for the U.S. market and more than 60 other countries around the globe.