Ford increases Lincoln production in the US while ending imports from China
Ford Motor Company has announced an ambitious plan to expand the domestic production of its Lincoln vehicles, a move that will begin in 2030 and aims to eliminate the importation of luxury models from China for American consumers. The Dearborn, Michigan-based automaker has stated that this initiative is expected to create thousands of jobs in the United States, directly and indirectly, although specific investment amounts and production facility locations have not yet been disclosed.
Currently, Lincoln’s U.S. model lineup includes vehicles such as the Nautilus, which is produced at the Changan Ford plant in Hangzhou, China, before being exported to the United States. The redesigned Nautilus has been a significant part of Lincoln’s offerings, with its predecessor being manufactured at Ford’s Oakville Assembly Plant in Canada. As part of this strategic shift, it remains to be confirmed whether production of the Nautilus will transition to domestic facilities.
This announcement arrives at a critical time for Ford and the broader automotive sector, which have faced escalating costs and uncertainty linked to tariffs and fluctuating global trade policies. Recent financial reports reveal that Ford incurred approximately billion in gross costs attributed to tariffs enacted or modified in 2025, which influenced earnings before interest and taxes significantly. However, the company has not clarified whether these trade expenses contributed to the decision to phase out Lincoln vehicle imports from China.
While the specifics of the 2030 expansion plan remain vague—particularly regarding which models will be produced domestically—Ford continues to maintain a substantial manufacturing presence in the U.S. Currently, the Lincoln Navigator is produced at Ford’s Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville, while the Aviator is assembled at the Chicago Assembly Plant. Both models are also exported to various international markets including Canada, Mexico, and the Middle East.
In total, Ford assembled more than 2 million vehicles in the U.S. in 2025, leading the industry in domestic vehicle production and worker employment. As Ford seeks to fortify its operational footprint, the anticipated expansion will further consolidate its role as a key player in the American auto manufacturing landscape.
As the details of Ford’s plans unfold, the company’s strategic move highlights a broader trend in the automotive industry as manufacturers adapt to shifting economic conditions and consumer preferences in an increasingly competitive market.
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