Can Ford's Factories Keep Up With Demand?

Ford's Fusion has been in short supply. Most are sold just a few days after arriving at dealers, and hybrids like the one pictured here are moving especially quickly. Ford is opening a second production line for the Fusion this fall. Photo credit: Ford Motor Co.

Ford said its U.S. retail sales were up 19% last month, a strong result. But there were hints that short supplies of some key models, including the Fusion and Escape, held Ford's sales back to some extent. The problem: Several of Ford's factories are already working around the clock, and production of those key models may be maxed out.

Ford has announced moves to increase production of the Fusion and its F-Series pickups. But more shortages may be looming, and Ford may have to spend big to increase its production in North America. In this video, Fool contributor John Rosevear explains what's working so well for Ford at the moment -- and at what the company will need to do to keep up with demand for its hit products.

Ford's latest models aren't doing well just in the United States. Its Focus has become one of China's best-sellers, and more Fords are climbing China's sales charts. A recent Motley Fool report, "2 Automakers to Buy for a Surging Chinese Market," says Ford is one of two global auto giants that is exceptionally well positioned to benefit from China's ongoing auto boom. You can read this report right now for free - just click here for instant access.

The article Can Ford's Factories Keep Up With Demand? originally appeared on Fool.com.

Fool contributor John Rosevear owns shares of Ford and General Motors. Follow him on Twitter at@jrosevear.The Motley Fool recommends Ford and General Motors and owns shares of Ford. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools don't all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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