OEM production systems enable flexibility

Building multiple models on the same production line is a Japanese innovation-one that U.S. automakers are hurrying to implement.

Ford Motor Co. is using its most valuable property, the F-Series pickup truck, to launch its flexible manufacturing program in North America beginning with the 2004 model year. The first fully flexible plant for Ford in America will be the Norfolk Assembly Plant, launch site for the redesigned 2004 F-150.

General Motors Corp. already has a flexible plant in operation: the new Lansing Grand River plant, where the Cadillac CTS currently is produced. The SRX goes into production there this summer, with more models planned. Chrysler Group has the capability to add or change models with minimal disruption at four plants. With the 2004 model year Chrysler Pacifica, for the first time it will build multiple models off different platforms at the same facility, namely the Windsor Assembly Plant in Canada beginning early this year.