Ford Hikes Second-Quarter Output in North America

Ford Motor Co. plans to build 730,000 cars and light trucks in North America in the March-June quarter, 20,000 units more than in the same period in 2011.

The company made 677,000 vehicles in North America in the first quarter, up 20,000 units year over year.

Ford says it will cut output 15% to 370,000 vehicles in Europe and 12% to 115,000 units in South America in the current quarter because of slowing demand in those regions. Its Asia Pacific Africa unit intends to boost production15% to 260,000 vehicles.

The company expects its worldwide production to dip 2% to 1.48 million units in the current quarter.

Ford says its production will not be disrupted by a worldwide shortage of a specialty resin used in brake and fuel systems because the company previously validated alternative materials it can use.