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Ford Rouge to Build New Engine and to Receive New Paint Operation

21 November 1997

Ford Rouge to Build New Engine and to Receive New Paint Operation

    *  Ford's Largest Manufacturing Site Gets New World-Class Technology
    *  New Paint System is More Environmentally Friendly
    *  Dearborn Engine to Produce New Engine

    DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 21 -- Ford Motor Company is
investing in the future of the Rouge site to allow it to continue producing
world-class products well into the 21st Century.
    The company plans to produce a new engine at the Dearborn Engine and Fuel
Tank Plant in the Rouge.  In addition, Ford also plans to install a new more
environmentally friendly paint operation in the Dearborn Assembly Plant, also
in the Rouge.
    "This is great news for Dearborn Assembly, Dearborn Engine and the entire
Rouge," said Jac Nasser, president -- Ford Automotive Operations.  "These
investments will enable us to continue to provide outstanding products to Ford
customers, while helping ensure the future of Ford employees in the Rouge."
    The paint operation, utilizing state-of-the-art water-based paint
materials and pollution-prevention equipment, will provide even higher-quality
finishes to vehicles made at Dearborn Assembly.  It is planned to become
operational in the fourth quarter of 1999, contingent upon the granting of
necessary environmental permits.
    Today, the Dearborn Engine and Fuel Tank Plant produces 2.0-liter four-
cylinder engines for the Ford Escort and Mercury Tracer and steel fuel tanks
for a variety of Ford and Lincoln-Mercury cars and trucks.  The Dearborn
Assembly Plant produces the Ford Mustang.
    These investment plans will be presented to state and local governmental
authorities for approval of various incentives.
    The Rouge is Ford's largest manufacturing complex.  Today more than 7,000
Ford employees work at the facility.

SOURCE  Ford Motor Company