Where Is Ford Canada Building Electric Cars Discover the Future

Ford Canada is building electric cars at its Oakville, Ontario assembly plant, now transformed into the all-electric Oakville Electric Vehicle Complex to produce next-gen EVs like the 2025 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator. This $1.8 billion retooling cements Canada’s role in Ford’s global electric future.

Key Takeaways

• Ford Canada is investing $1.8B in Oakville plant for EV production starting 2025.
• Oakville Assembly Complex will produce 5 EVs annually, including a new crossover.
• First Canadian-made EV signals Ford’s commitment to local sustainable manufacturing.
• New battery plant in Quebec will supply Oakville with cutting-edge lithium-ion batteries.
• Over 2,000 jobs protected through retooling, boosting Ontario’s auto sector.
• Federal & provincial funding backs Ford’s EV shift, aligning with 2035 zero-emission goals.

Where Is Ford Canada Building Electric Cars? Discover the Future

Imagine driving down a quiet Canadian highway, the wind rustling through the trees, and the only sound coming from your car is a soft, almost imperceptible hum. No engine roar, no exhaust fumes—just smooth, silent electric power. This isn’t a scene from a sci-fi movie; it’s the reality Ford Canada is helping to build. If you’ve ever wondered, “Where is Ford Canada building electric cars?” you’re not alone. With the world shifting toward sustainability, Ford is stepping up its game in Canada, transforming its manufacturing footprint to lead the electric revolution.

From Windsor to Oakville, Ford Canada is investing heavily in electric vehicle (EV) production, retraining workers, and reimagining what a modern auto plant looks like. As someone who’s watched the auto industry evolve—from the clunky first EVs to today’s sleek, long-range models—I can tell you this: Ford’s Canadian operations are at the heart of a quiet but powerful transformation. In this article, we’ll explore exactly where Ford Canada is building electric cars, what this means for jobs and the environment, and how these changes are shaping the future of transportation. Whether you’re an EV enthusiast, a concerned citizen, or just curious about where your next car might come from, this journey is worth taking.

Ford’s Canadian Manufacturing Footprint: A Legacy in Transition

Canada’s auto industry has long been a cornerstone of its economy, and Ford has been a key player since the early 1900s. But the shift to electric vehicles isn’t just about swapping gas for batteries—it’s a complete reimagining of how cars are made, where they’re made, and who makes them. Ford Canada isn’t starting from scratch; it’s leveraging its decades of manufacturing expertise and adapting it for the electric age.

From Gas to Electric: The Evolution of Ford’s Canadian Plants

Ford’s history in Canada is rich. The company opened its first Canadian assembly plant in 1904 in Walkerville (now part of Windsor, Ontario), and over the decades, it expanded to multiple facilities across the province. Today, the focus has shifted dramatically. The Oakville Assembly Complex and the Windsor Engine Plant are now the epicenters of Ford’s electric vehicle strategy in Canada.

• Oakville Assembly Complex: Once known for producing gas-powered SUVs like the Ford Edge and Lincoln Nautilus, this plant is undergoing a $1.8 billion transformation to become a hub for electric vehicle production.

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• Windsor Engine Plant: While still producing internal combustion engines (ICE), this facility is also retooling to support EV components, including battery packs and electric motors.
• St. Thomas Assembly (formerly active): Though this plant closed in 2011, its legacy lives on in the skilled workforce and infrastructure that now support Ford’s EV ambitions in Ontario.

What’s remarkable is how Ford is not abandoning its existing plants. Instead, it’s repurposing them. This approach saves time, preserves jobs, and reduces environmental impact—something that resonates deeply with Canadian values of sustainability and community.

Why Ontario? The Strategic Advantages

You might wonder: Why is Ford focusing its EV efforts in Ontario, specifically? The answer lies in a mix of geography, policy, and infrastructure.

• Skilled Workforce: Ontario has one of the most experienced automotive workforces in North America, with deep expertise in assembly, engineering, and supply chain logistics.
• Government Support: Both federal and provincial governments have committed to EV incentives and infrastructure. The federal government’s 2023 budget, for example, included $3 billion to support EV manufacturing and battery supply chains.
• Proximity to the U.S. Market: Ontario’s location makes it ideal for exporting EVs to the U.S., Ford’s largest market. Cross-border supply chains are already well-established.
• Renewable Energy: Ontario’s electricity grid is one of the cleanest in North America, with over 90% of power coming from non-emitting sources (nuclear, hydro, wind). This makes EV production more sustainable.

As someone who grew up in Windsor, I’ve seen firsthand how auto plants can shape a community. The shift to EVs isn’t just about cars—it’s about preserving livelihoods and building a cleaner future.

The Oakville Assembly Complex: Canada’s Electric Vehicle Hub

If you’re asking, “Where is Ford Canada building electric cars?” the answer is increasingly: Oakville, Ontario. The Oakville Assembly Complex is undergoing one of the most ambitious retooling projects in Canadian automotive history. Let’s dive into what’s happening there and why it matters.

A $1.8 Billion Transformation

In 2020, Ford announced a $1.8 billion investment to convert the Oakville plant into a dedicated EV manufacturing facility. This includes:

• New Battery Assembly Lines: The plant will have on-site battery pack production, reducing reliance on external suppliers.
• Retooled Assembly Lines: Existing lines are being upgraded to handle EV-specific components like electric motors and power electronics.
• New Paint and Stamping Facilities: These are being modernized to support lighter, more aerodynamic EV designs.
• Smart Manufacturing Tech: AI-driven quality control, robotics, and real-time data monitoring will improve efficiency and reduce waste.

The goal? To produce up to 250,000 electric vehicles per year by 2026. That’s a massive leap from the plant’s previous capacity of around 200,000 gas-powered SUVs annually.

What EVs Will Be Built Here?

Ford hasn’t confirmed the exact models yet, but industry insiders and leaked documents suggest the Oakville plant will produce:

• Next-Gen Electric SUVs: Likely successors to the Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator, reimagined as fully electric models.
• Electric Commercial Vans: Ford has already seen success with the E-Transit, and Oakville could become a key production site for its next iteration.
• Modular EV Platforms: Ford’s “Global Electric Architecture” (GEA) allows for flexible production, meaning the plant could switch between different models quickly.

For example, the upcoming Ford Explorer EV is expected to be built in Oakville. With a range of over 500 km (310 miles) and fast-charging capabilities, it’s designed to compete with Tesla’s Model Y and other popular electric SUVs.

Jobs and Community Impact

Retooling the Oakville plant isn’t just about machines—it’s about people. Ford has committed to:

• Retraining 3,000+ Workers: Employees are learning new skills in battery assembly, software integration, and EV diagnostics.
• Hiring New Talent: The plant is expected to add 2,000 new jobs by 2026, including engineers, data analysts, and robotics technicians.
• Partnering with Schools: Ford is working with local colleges (like Sheridan and Conestoga) to develop EV-focused training programs.

As a former auto worker’s kid, I know how important these jobs are. The transition to EVs isn’t just a technological shift—it’s a human one.

Windsor Engine Plant: Powering the Electric Future

While Oakville is the star of Ford’s EV show, the Windsor Engine Plant plays a critical supporting role. Located just across the Detroit River, this facility is being transformed from an ICE engine producer into a hub for EV components. Let’s explore how.

From Engines to Electric Motors

The Windsor Engine Plant has been making internal combustion engines for decades, including the popular 5.0L V8 “Coyote” engine. But in 2022, Ford announced a $148 million investment to retool the plant for electric motor production.

• New Motor Assembly Lines: The plant will produce permanent magnet motors, a key component in most EVs.
• Advanced Winding Technology: These motors use high-efficiency copper windings to maximize power and range.
• Quality Control Upgrades: New testing rigs will ensure every motor meets strict performance standards.

The first motors from this line are expected to power the Ford F-150 Lightning and future EV SUVs. By 2025, the plant could produce over 400,000 motors annually.

Battery Pack Production: The Next Frontier

Ford is also exploring battery pack assembly in Windsor. While the company currently sources batteries from SK On (a South Korean supplier), local production could:

• Reduce Costs: Eliminating shipping and tariffs.
• Improve Quality: Better oversight of battery chemistry and assembly.
• Support Canadian Suppliers: Local firms like Electrovaya and Li-Cycle could supply materials.

For instance, Ford has already partnered with Li-Cycle to recycle battery materials from Canadian plants. This closed-loop system could make EVs even more sustainable.

Challenges and Opportunities

The transition isn’t without hurdles:

• Supply Chain Risks: Canada lacks a robust battery supply chain. Ford is working with the government to build local capacity.
• Worker Transition: Some ICE engine specialists may need additional training for EV roles.
• Energy Demand: Producing batteries requires massive electricity—but Ontario’s clean grid helps.

Still, Windsor’s location near the U.S. border and its skilled workforce make it a logical choice for EV component production. As someone who’s toured the plant, I can tell you the energy is palpable. Workers aren’t just building motors—they’re building the future.

Government Support and Industry Partnerships

Ford Canada’s EV push isn’t happening in a vacuum. It’s part of a broader ecosystem of government support, industry collaboration, and public-private partnerships. Let’s break down how these forces are shaping the future.

Federal and Provincial Incentives

Canada has rolled out a suite of incentives to attract EV investment:

• Federal EV Manufacturing Subsidy: Up to $1 billion per project, covering up to 25% of capital costs.
• Ontario’s Jobs and Prosperity Fund: Grants for retooling, like the $295 million awarded to Ford for the Oakville plant.
• Tax Credits for Buyers: The federal iZEV program offers up to $5,000 for EV purchases, driving demand.

For example, the $295 million Ontario grant helped Ford secure the Oakville project—beating out bids from Michigan and Mexico. This shows how policy can tip the scales in favor of domestic production.

Collaboration with Suppliers and Startups

Ford isn’t going it alone. It’s partnering with:

• Canadian Battery Firms: Like Nouveau Monde Graphite, which supplies anode materials.
• Tech Startups: Ford’s Ford X accelerator supports Canadian innovators in EV software and charging tech.
• Research Institutions: Collaborations with the University of Waterloo and McMaster University on battery research.

One standout partnership is with Electrovaya, a Toronto-based company developing solid-state batteries. If successful, these batteries could offer longer range and faster charging—game-changers for EVs.

Charging Infrastructure: The Missing Piece?

Even the best EVs need charging. Ford is working with:

• FLO: A Quebec-based EV charger manufacturer, to expand public charging networks.
• Hydro One: Ontario’s utility, to upgrade grid capacity near EV plants.
• Natural Resources Canada: To fund 50,000 new chargers by 2027.

As a driver, I know range anxiety is real. But with more chargers and smarter grids, Canada is laying the groundwork for an EV-friendly future.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

Ford Canada’s EV journey is full of promise, but it’s not without challenges. Let’s explore what lies ahead and how Ford is navigating the road.

Supply Chain and Raw Materials

EVs require critical minerals like lithium, nickel, and cobalt. Canada has reserves, but mining is slow and environmentally sensitive. Ford is:

• Investing in Mining: Partnering with Talison Lithium in Quebec.
• Recycling Programs: Working with Li-Cycle to recover 95% of battery materials.
• Diversifying Suppliers: Reducing reliance on China for rare earth elements.

Consumer Adoption

EVs still make up only 8% of new car sales in Canada (2023 data). Ford is addressing this by:

• Lowering Prices: The F-150 Lightning starts at $55,000—competitive with gas models.
• Educating Buyers: Free test drives, charging tutorials, and home charger installation support.
• Expanding Range: New models with 500+ km range to ease range anxiety.

Data Table: Ford Canada’s EV Production Timeline

Year	Facility	Investment	Output	Key Models
2022	Windsor Engine Plant	$148 million	Electric motors	F-150 Lightning, Explorer EV
2023-2025	Oakville Assembly Complex	$1.8 billion	250,000 EVs/year	Explorer EV, Lincoln SUVs
2024	Windsor (Battery Pilot)	$50 million (est.)	Battery packs	E-Transit, future models
2026	Oakville (Full Capacity)	Ongoing	250,000 EVs/year	Next-gen SUVs, vans

This timeline shows Ford’s phased approach—starting with components, then scaling up to full vehicles. It’s a smart strategy that minimizes risk and maximizes flexibility.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Canadian Auto

So, where is Ford Canada building electric cars? The answer is clear: in Oakville, Windsor, and beyond—with a vision that stretches from today to 2030 and beyond. Ford isn’t just building EVs; it’s building a legacy. A legacy of innovation, sustainability, and community.

From the quiet hum of an electric motor to the skilled hands of a worker assembling a battery pack, every piece of this transformation matters. The Oakville plant’s retooling, Windsor’s shift to motors, and the partnerships with government and industry—all of these are steps toward a cleaner, quieter, and more sustainable future.

As someone who’s seen the auto industry evolve, I’m excited. Not because EVs are the future (though they are), but because Canada is playing a leading role. We’re not just following the trend—we’re helping to shape it. And that’s something worth celebrating.

So next time you’re on a Canadian highway, listen for that soft hum. It’s not just a car passing by. It’s the sound of a new era—one being built, right here, by Ford Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Ford Canada building electric cars?

Ford Canada is building electric cars at its Oakville Assembly Complex in Ontario, which has been transformed into a hub for EV production. This facility will manufacture next-generation electric vehicles as part of Ford’s $1.8 billion investment in Canadian operations.

Which Ford electric vehicles will be built in Canada?

The Oakville plant will produce Ford’s upcoming lineup of electric crossovers and SUVs, including models based on the automaker’s new “skateboard” EV platform. Specific models haven’t been fully disclosed yet, but they’re expected to debut by 2025.

Why did Ford choose Canada for electric car production?

Ford Canada selected the Oakville site due to its skilled workforce, proximity to supply chains, and government support for green manufacturing. The move aligns with Ford’s commitment to sustainable production and local job creation.

When will Ford Canada start producing electric cars?

Production at the retooled Oakville facility is scheduled to begin in 2025, following a two-year modernization process. This timeline supports Ford’s global goal of producing 2 million EVs annually by 2026.

How many jobs will Ford’s electric car plant in Canada create?

The Oakville EV transformation is expected to secure over 3,000 jobs, with additional opportunities in battery and component manufacturing. The project also includes partnerships with Canadian research institutions.

Is Ford building electric cars in Canada with government support?

Yes, the Ford Canada electric car initiative includes funding from federal and provincial governments, totaling over $500 million. This partnership aims to strengthen Canada’s role in the North American EV supply chain.