Latest Paint update.....
randy
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April 25, 2011
To: All Ford and Lincoln Dealers Subject: EFC00312DC Paint Availability Update A month ago (3/25/11), we notified you of an industry-wide supply chain issue which would disrupt the supply of pigments for some of our vehicle paints. Since then, a cross-functional Ford team has developed a comprehensive plan to ensure dealers retain the ability to order and stock a full range of colors with minimal scheduling disruption.
Actions are being implemented at all manufacturing facilities that will include replacement paint choices where necessary. We also continue to have a significant number of vehicles in dealer stock and in the system available for sale to retail customers. Between current inventories and our comprehensive paint plan, we do not expect to experience any color shortages.
The purpose of this communication is to provide an update on scheduling of early balance out paints and our plan to manage through this change.
Vehicle Scheduling Update
Previously, we communicated early balance out of Tuxedo Black, Red Candy, Royal Red and Redfire paint for some vehicle lines.
Additional colors will balance out in the coming weeks and months including:
Bordeaux Reserve
Lava Red
Kona Blue
Sangria Red
Earth
Bright Magenta
Updates with specific balance out dates/details will be provided via normal communication channels - Weekly Commodity and Constraints letter and updates from the Field Order Schedulers.
Replacement Paints
The action plan includes replacement colors for all paints affected by this shortage. Three color replacements impact 2011 models while the remaining replacement paints will be available for the 2012MY.
Below is a summary of the 2011MY vehicle order guides that will be updated:
Current Paint
Replacement Paint
Models
Tuxedo Black (UH)
Black (UA)
Taurus, Edge, Explorer
F-150, Super Duty, Expedition,
Navigator, MKS, MKX
Red Fire (G2)
Toreador Red (FL)
Ranger
Red Candy (U6)
Red Candy (RZ)
F150
Dealer Recommended Actions
Significant efforts have been taken to reduce scheduling disruption during this transition. Dealers are encouraged to:
Review weekly scheduling notes for information on replacement paint timing and the publication of updated order guides.
Monitor the unscheduled order bank (USOB) and change orders impacted by balanceout paints.
Ensure salespeople have the most current information to manage customer expectations regarding color availability and retail order scheduling.
This remains a very fluid situation and is subject to change. We will continue to provide additional details as soon as they are available. Thank you for your support as we work through this challenging business environment.
Copyright 2011 Ford Motor Company