Ford’s $1.5 Billion Electric Van Plan: 1,800 New Jobs Coming to Lorain County

Ford Motor Company has announced that it will begin producing an all-electric commercial van at its Ohio Assembly Plant in Avon Lake, Lorain County, starting in 2026. This initiative is part of Ford’s broader shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) and represents a significant investment in the region’s automotive industry.

The company plans to invest $1.5 billion into the plant, which will create 1,800 new jobs. The Avon Lake plant, which has been a staple of the local economy since 1974, will continue to produce other commercial vehicles alongside the new electric van. The assembly line for the new EV will be operational by mid-decade.

Image Courtesy of Ford

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted praised the investment, emphasizing the importance of Ohio’s skilled workforce and the state’s position as a leader in automotive manufacturing. JobsOhio, the state’s economic development corporation, played a crucial role in securing this project, highlighting Ohio’s ongoing commitment to advancing the EV industry.

This development is expected to bolster Lorain County’s economy and reinforce Ohio’s reputation as a key player in the future of electric vehicles.