Demographic trends unfolding in China will ultimately lead Africa to replace the world’s most populous country as a global center of low-cost manufacturing, according to Ford Motor Co.’s official futurist.
That’s just one impact of changing demographics that will force automakers and suppliers to reconsider their future product and production plans, Sheryl Connelly, global consumer trends and futuring manager for Ford, said at the 2013 CAR Management Briefing Seminars on Wednesday.
An unofficial Mazda concept car was unveiled at a reception Sunday that was conceptualized and designed by Clemson students and sponsored by Mazda.
ZF’s South Carolina transmission plant is forecast to annually produce 1.2 million units — 400,000 8-speeds and 800,000 9-speeds — once the expansion is completed in 2016.
The Michigan factory where Henry Ford’s moving assembly line was born would be a destination for tourists and car enthusiasts alike if plans by a local historic preservation group come together.
Europe is ‘starting to show signs of stability,” Stephen Odell, Ford of Europe CEO, said.
