Ford Plan for Luxury Cars Reported

Ford Motor Co. plans to invest up to $200 million in its Woodlawn, N.Y., stamping plant to install equipment for a new generation of luxury cars, according to a published report.

The equipment will be used to stamp out body parts for a new generation of Ford Crown Victoria and Mercury Grand Marquis cars, the Buffalo News reported today. The cars, Ford’s largest, are being redesigned for the 1992 model year.

Company sources confirmed that there would be a major investment but declined to disclose the amount.

One member of Ford management said an important announcement was expected this month. Workers said they learned of the proposed spending plans from a bulletin distributed in the plant.

Some union members said they believe the spending plan ensures that Ford will keep the plant open through the 1990s.