News From the Auto Industry

Ford said it will cut production in the quarter by 17 percent. The company plans to produce 980,000 vehicles next quarter compares with the 1.176 million made a year ago. First-quarter production will be 1.035 million. Ford said nearly half of the planned production cuts is from not repeating last year’s production increase aimed at boosting inventories. The remainder is the result of moves as part of Ford’s revitalization plan and lower F-series production amid the summer launch of the redesigned F-150 pickup truck, America’s best-selling vehicle.

At the same time, top suppliers stand to gain at the expense of their smaller competitors. Automakers have indicated a desire to work with fewer suppliers and incorporate larger modules and systems into their vehicles, a trend that has benefitted big suppliers.

But it hasn’t hurt, has it Chad?