Manoli Katakis 
Ford Motor Company has announced today that it will temporarily close a section of its Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Michigan building after one of the employees there tested positive for COVID-19 coronavirus. The Michigan Assembly plant currently builds the Ford Ranger and will be the production location of the 2021 Ford Bronco, as well. Not far away, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles suspended production of its 2020 Ram 1500 assembly plant in Sterling Heights after an employee tested positive for the illness.
The shutdowns came after a special task force made of both UAW and Detroit Three officials met yesterday evening to figure out ways to keep vehicle production alive during this unprecedented pandemic. The idea of such a thing appears impossible, and the UAW has already signaled that it’s looking for a two-week shutdown. Although now, the companies would schedule rotation shifts that would partially close plants and allow for greater space between workers. It’s likely that these provisions will shift to something more significant, such as entire plant closures.
These measures appear half-baked when compared to what Honda is doing, as it shut down production all across North America. citing a drop in demand, the truth is beginning to reveal itself in early automotive sales data. With the market crashing and people staying home, foot traffic across car dealers nationwide has taken a nose dive. Thus, so have deliveries. It’s safe to say that Q1 2020 automotive sales are going to be a blood bath, with no brand getting out of this unscathed.
However, if you are interested in the perfect vehicle to help you escape the panic and mayhem of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve divulged a comprehensive list of new trucks and utility vehicles for you to consider. With prices ranging from the high $20,000’s to nearly $2 million.
