Jobs return as Ford Oakville plant prepares to restart production

After sitting idle for nearly two years, Ford’s Oakville Assembly Complex is expected to be fully operational again by the end of 2026.

For the past month, workers have started to return to the plant as preparations ramp up for production of Ford’s heavy-duty gas and diesel-powered pickup trucks.

The restart comes as the federal government commits $464 million toward retooling the facility.

“We are happy to support our auto workers and the auto industry,” Minister of Finance and National Revenue François-Philippe Champagne said Friday.

The Ford Motor Company expects the new production line to employ roughly 1,800 workers.

The development marks a dramatic turnaround for the Oakville plant after uncertainty surrounded its future following the end of production for the Ford Edge and Lincoln Nautilus in 2024.

At the time, Ford planned to retool the facility for electric vehicle production. However, weakening EV demand prompted the automaker to pause the project and reassess its long-term electric vehicle strategy, leading to the loss of roughly 3,000 jobs.

Once fully operational, the Oakville plant is expected to produce up to 100,000 Ford F-Series Super Duty models annually, including the F-250, F-350 and F-450.

The trucks are designed for commercial and heavy-duty work, offering powerful engines and high towing and hauling capability.