Unless you've been living under a rock for the last few years, you know that the economy has challenged everybody - from small businesses to large automakers, we've all been tightening our belts since 2007. Most companies, like Ford, have made it through the rough patch and are emerging on the other side, stronger, more resilient, ready for whatever the economy has to throw at them. And we're not just saying that either - we can tell you for sure that Ford's recent investments have most definitely paid off for them.

One such challenge was coming up with a car to replace the Ford Crown Victoria in police forces. So, Ford turned to one of their oldest production facilities in Chicago. The Torrence Ave plant opened in 1924 to produce the original Model T, and since then, has turned out some of the most iconic new Ford models. Today, the nearly 4,000 workers at the plant build the Ford Taurus and the Ford Explorer.

And pretty soon, a third shift and 1,200 employees will join the assembly line to help produce the 2013 Police Interceptor variants of both the Taurus and the Explorer. Police vehicles have been a major investment for Ford for years, and currently, they hold about 70 percent of the police market. Orders have already started to roll in from the Cook Country sheriff's office as well as the Illinois State Police. The city of Chicago has yet to place an order, but their bid sheets are out and Ford is at the ready. Lisa Teed, Marketing Manager for the Interceptor says, "We have responded to the bid spec request, and I'm sure they're evaluating it."¹

Given the iconic history of the Ford Crown Victoria, we're sure we'll be seeing more and more of these Taurus and Explorer Interceptors for years to come. On top of that, we look forward to seeing the Chicago Assembly facility continue to flourish as the economy improves.

You won't find any of the Interceptors here at Bo Beuckman Ford, 15675 Manchester Rd Ellisville, MO 63011, but you will find an entire lineup of American-built New Ford models. Come on down and chat with a member of our team and take one for a spin, or contact us via our website at your convenience.

Source: ¹http://www.suntimes.com/business/10512645-420/ford-cites-chicago-plants-successes-at-auto-show-preview.html