Ford to Halt Focus Car Production in Argentina

Ford Motor Co. says it will stop making Focus small cars in Argentina in 2019 in a bid to cut operating losses in the region.

The carmaker says its factory in Pacheco, which currently employs more than 3,400 people, will continue to build Ranger small pickup trucks. Ford blames the decision on the same trend that has affected all major global markets: a profound shift in consumer preferences from conventional sedans to SUV/crossovers and trucks.

The company says its business model for South America is undergoing a “significant redesign” as it seeks to determine where and how it will participate in the region’s vehicle market. Reuters cites suppliers who say the Pacheco plant may add one or two new crossover models by 2021.

Ford stopped producing the Focus in the U.S. earlier this year, also citing a slump in demand for conventional passenger cars.