US Auto Manufacturers to Resume Factory Operations Starting May 18

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] Major U.S. automobile manufacturers are set to resume factory operations starting May 18. After halting production due to the COVID-19 pandemic, these automakers, which had been producing ventilators and other equipment, appear to be moving toward normalization in line with the economic reopening efforts.

According to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) on the 27th (local time), major automakers based in Detroit, Michigan, including General Motors (GM), Ford, and Fiat Chrysler (FCA), are aiming to restart production on May 18. Citing sources, WSJ reported that while it will not be a full-scale reopening, some production lines will begin operating from that date.

Recently, executives from GM, Ford, and FCA held discussions with the leadership of the United Auto Workers (UAW) union regarding the factory reopening and have tentatively agreed on the reopening date.

The May 18 factory reopening is expected to apply to all automakers located in Detroit.

However, the UAW continues to express concerns about resuming work, citing insufficient measures to protect workers from the risk of COVID-19 infection.

A Ford spokesperson stated, "Nothing specific has been decided regarding the resumption of operations," but added, "We are continuously monitoring public health conditions and government guidelines to determine the appropriate timing for restarting production."

Previously, the state of Michigan ordered the closure of non-essential businesses until May 15. The Michigan state government has not responded to whether automobile factories are classified as essential economic activities under this executive order.

Meanwhile, Toyota is preparing to resume operations on May 4, and Honda aims to restart on May 11. Hyundai Motor's Alabama plant and Kia Motors' Georgia plant also plan to resume operations after May 4.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.