Update: Ford, GM, and FCA Stop US Production of New Cars

After reports yesterday of both GM and Ford employees testing positive for Coronavirus, autoworkers began calling on the Big 3 and the United Auto Workers union to stop production. And that’s exactly what’s happened.

Automotive News has reported that the Detroit automakers, Ford, GM, and FCA will begin closures following the evening shifts on March 19. Ford was the first to confirm it will suspend production of its U.S., Canadian, and Mexican assembly plants through March 30 to “thoroughly clean is facilities”.

In a statement, Rory Gamble, president of the United Auto Workers union said, “Today’s action is the prudent thing to do. By taking a shutdown and working through next steps, we protect UAW members, their families and the community. We have time to review best practices when the plants reopen, and we prevent the possible spread of this pandemic. We commend Ford for working with us and taking this bold step.”

General Motors was next to confirm its shutdown citing an agreement with the UAW to ensure the health and safety of people entering the GM plants. GM says its suspension will last until at least March 30 and will be re-evaluated on a week-to-week basis from then on.

FCA has yet to confirm any closures. Check back on updates on this story.