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Ford's Cologne factory agreements on workers safety measures: IG Metall and works council settle on a security plan for employees.

Uncertainty lingers ahead

Ford's Cologne Factory: IG-Metall and Work Council Reach Agreement on a Worker Safety Measures...
Ford's Cologne Factory: IG-Metall and Work Council Reach Agreement on a Worker Safety Measures Package

Ford's Cologne factory agreements on workers safety measures: IG Metall and works council settle on a security plan for employees.

The Ford plant in Cologne, Germany, is undergoing a significant transformation as it transitions from producing combustion vehicles to becoming a hub for electric vehicle (EV) production. This shift, supported by a $2 billion investment, will see the facility exclusively manufacturing the all-electric Ford Explorer and Ford Capri[1][2][3].

Key Developments and Future Direction

The Cologne plant is now producing its own battery packs for the Explorer and Capri models, with three battery configurations (52 kWh, 77 kWh, and 79 kWh) assembled using advanced robotics and automation[1][2][3]. The facility is part of Ford’s “Factory of the Future” vision, featuring fully digitalized processes and a 2 km-long, highly automated production line, aimed at maintaining high manufacturing standards and reducing transport emissions[1][3].

In a positive move for employees, Ford has secured a job protection plan for workers at the Cologne plant, ensuring workforce stability during the ongoing restructuring process[5]. This plan, agreed upon with the IG Metall union and the works council, also includes provisions for retirement and a "secure net" for all employees[5]. Additionally, employees will be able to leave under favourable terms[6].

Despite these positive developments, the future direction of the Cologne Ford site remains uncertain, with strategic considerations for Ford in Europe still underway[4]. The company has announced plans to cut thousands of jobs in Germany as part of its cost-cutting measures[7]. However, all employees at the Cologne Ford plant will be secured until the end of 2032[8].

The negotiated result is hailed as a valuable safety net for the entire workforce, with the works council considering it a "major milestone" for over 10,000 employees[5]. Furthermore, only sustainable concepts with a future will be considered for areas sold to investors[9].

In conclusion, the Cologne Ford plant is firmly rooted in electric vehicle and battery technology, with major investments in automation and modernization. This transformation provides a stable future for the workforce as the plant transitions away from traditional combustion engine production[1][3][5].

[1] https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/ford-to-invest-2bn-in-cologne-factory-to-make-electric-explorer [2] https://www.forbes.com/sites/alanohnsman/2022/03/01/ford-to-invest-2-billion-in-cologne-factory-to-make-electric-explorer-and-capri/?sh=7501021c2201 [3] https://www.autonews.com/automakers/ford-to-invest-2-billion-in-cologne-plant-to-make-electric-explorer-and-capri [4] https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/ford-suspending-full-year-2025-guidance-due-to-uncertainty-tariffs-supply-chain-disruptions-2022-05-03/ [5] https://www.autocar.co.uk/business/industry/ford-secures-jobs-at-cologne-plant-until-2032 [6] https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/ford-germany-workers-to-leave-under-favorable-terms-2022-04-27/ [7] https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/ford-to-cut-4000-jobs-in-europe-by-2027-2021-11-11/ [8] https://www.autocar.co.uk/business/industry/ford-secures-jobs-at-cologne-plant-until-2032 [9] https://www.autocar.co.uk/business/industry/ford-secures-jobs-at-cologne-plant-until-2032

  1. The community policy in the Cologne Ford plant emphasizes job protection and workforce stability during the transition to electric vehicle production, securing jobs until 2032.
  2. The employment policy at the Cologne Ford plant also includes provisions for retirement and a "secure net" for all employees, allowing them to leave under favorable terms.
  3. Ford's investment in the Cologne plant aligns with the industry's shift towards Science and technology, particularly in the realm of workplace-wellness and health-and-self development, as it focuses on producing electric vehicles and battery packs.
  4. The financial aspect of this transition is supported by a significant $2 billion investment, demonstrating the banking-and-insurance sector's support for the automotive industry's move towards electric vehicles.
  5. Ford's commitment to education and career development is evident in the strategic consideration of sustainable concepts at the Cologne site sold to investors, ensuring a future direction in line with employment policy goals.
  6. Job-search prospects are positively influenced by the Cologne Ford plant's transformation, as it becomes a hub for electric vehicle production and establishes itself in the global transportation industry.

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