The project has been marked by uncertainty, as it coincided with deliberations by the Biden Administration over regulations that could potentially restrict U.S. companies from collaborating with certain Chinese entities.
While the UAW strike against major automakers, including Ford, has expanded to 38 locations across 20 states, it remains unclear whether Ford’s decision to suspend construction is directly related to the ongoing labor disputes.
UAW’s Demands and Ford’s Response
The UAW has been demanding various concessions from automakers, including pay raises, a shorter workweek, protection against inflation, and other worker-related concessions. Ford CEO Jim Farley had previously stated that meeting these demands would force the company to reconsider its investments in electric vehicles.