Ford overhauls Michigan plant to build new Focus

Ford will spend $550 million to retool an assembly plant in suburban Detroit to build the redesigned 2011 Ford Focus.

Production is to start next year.

As part of the overhaul, the plant, known as Michigan Assembly, also will build an electric-powered version of the new Focus. Canadian parts supplier Magna International is a partner in the project, which will use a lithium-ion battery pack.

The plant being retooled used to build the Ford Expedition and the Lincoln Navigator. Ford also is converting two other truck plants--in Mexico and Louisville, Ky.--to build cars.

The next-generation Focus uses a platform developed by Ford's European unit. In Europe, the Focus is sold in hatchback, wagon and convertible body styles. There also is a high-performance RS version.

By Dale Jewett