Auto manufacturer is set to invest $170 million in South Africa

With this investment, this factory, Silverton Assembly Plant, is expected to manufacture the all-new Ford Everest SUV.

Once production begins in the third quarter of this year, the South African plant should produce 10,000 Everest SUVs, per year.

According to Jim Farley, Ford executive vice president and president of Europe, Middle East and Africa, this particular SUV is loved by customers.

“Our customers love the capability and utility offered by the all-new Ford Everest. By producing the Everest in South Africa, we will be able to make it more readily available, and in a greater variety of models, for customers throughout Sub-Saharan Africa.”

He was supported by Jeff Nemeth, president and CEO of Ford Motor Company Sub-Saharan Africa Region.

"The all-new Everest has been extremely well received since it was launched in September last year, with demand far outstripping supply. This crucial investment will enable us to increase volumes and expand the Everest range to eight derivatives across a broader price range," Nemeth said.

This investment is also expected to create 1,200 new jobs.

"As we continue to grow our business here in South Africa we are committed to improving the skills of our employees and creating new opportunities within the company and the broader supply chain. It is only through the dedication and commitment of our work force, suppliers, dealers, union and government partners that we have been able to secure this investment and expand our operations, broadening our footprint in Africa even further," the CEO said.