Ford is increasing production of two full-size SUVs, the Lincoln Navigator and Ford Expedition, to meet surging global demand for both models ahead of their arrival to the Middle East.
The Lincoln Navigator, the company’s new luxury SUV flagship, and the Ford Expedition, its most adaptable large SUV, have both undergone a complete redesign.
In the US, dealers are unable to keep up with demand; the luxury SUVs are spending an average of just seven days at dealerships before they are sold.
According to Ford, pre-release demand for the Navigator is extremely strong from customers in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Kuwait.
Demand for the Expedition, which also begins arriving into Middle East showrooms, is expected to grow considerably since its appearance at the Dubai International Motor Show last November.
Crystal Worthem, marketing director, Ford Middle East and Africa, said, “We knew that the Middle East would fall in love with the Expedition and Navigator, but we’ve been floored by the interest both all-new SUVs have had ahead of their arrival.
“Both have been tailored to deliver the best on- and off-road performance, power and capability for customers in a region where uncompromising dependability is essential.”
Since last fall, Ford has boosted production targets for full-size SUVs by approximately 25%.
A new $25 million investment brings Ford’s total investment at Kentucky Truck Plant to $925 million and allows the company to increase manufacturing line speed.
Manufacturing upgrades include 400 new robots, a new 3D printer that enables workers to make parts and tools more quickly and cheaper as well as enhanced data analytics to keep the assembly line moving as efficiently as possible.
