According to an official statement attributed to Holden chairman Mike Devereux, the automaker is holding hands on both sides of the country's political aisle as he works to secure government goodwill and understanding for the auto industry's challenges. For the moment, Holden's commitment to Australian production appears stronger than Ford. Devereux notes the company has already vetted a 10-year production plan with the Australian government, and the billion-dollar investment that it requires will result in a pair of new global vehicles. Needless to say, Holden executives have a lot to figure out if they're going to continue to a viable enterprise in Down Under, and Ford's departure may add a sense of urgency to those discussions.
Statement attributable to Holden Chairman and Managing Director, Mike Devereux:
The announcement by Ford today is a reminder of just how tough it is for manufacturers in Australia, even the most committed, like Holden, which is bringing out the most technologically advanced car ever made in Australia.
The new Commodore is a car that is a class above and will change minds. It plays a critical role in Holden's long-term future in Australia and it is expected that Commodore will continue to be one of the top 10 selling cars in the country.
Despite Ford's announcement to end local manufacturing, we believe the industry can survive in Australia and has already adjusted in large part given Ford's relatively low production volumes.
Holden set out a 10-year manufacturing plan that was agreed with the Australian Government in 2012, based on the economic and market conditions at that time. That plan would see Holden invest a billion dollars in this country and secure production of two all-new global vehicles out to 2022.
The industry needs swift action to make Australia's automotive policy settings clear, consistent and globally competitive as quickly as possible.
Holden is working closely with the Australian Government, Federal Coalition and the State Governments to ensure the viability of the industry in the face of the historically significant economic challenges facing the country.
The announcement by Ford today is a reminder of just how tough it is for manufacturers in Australia, even the most committed, like Holden, which is bringing out the most technologically advanced car ever made in Australia.
The new Commodore is a car that is a class above and will change minds. It plays a critical role in Holden's long-term future in Australia and it is expected that Commodore will continue to be one of the top 10 selling cars in the country.
Despite Ford's announcement to end local manufacturing, we believe the industry can survive in Australia and has already adjusted in large part given Ford's relatively low production volumes.
Holden set out a 10-year manufacturing plan that was agreed with the Australian Government in 2012, based on the economic and market conditions at that time. That plan would see Holden invest a billion dollars in this country and secure production of two all-new global vehicles out to 2022.
The industry needs swift action to make Australia's automotive policy settings clear, consistent and globally competitive as quickly as possible.
Holden is working closely with the Australian Government, Federal Coalition and the State Governments to ensure the viability of the industry in the face of the historically significant economic challenges facing the country.
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