Ford in Talks to Sell German Plant to BYD

Ford is in early talks to sell its production facility in Saarlouis, Germany to Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD, according to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ).

While purchase negotiations with BYD are far from over and may fizzle completely, signs are positive a deal may work out, says the WSJ. Ford is considering interest from 15 potential according to news reports.

Aiming to focus on all-electric cars and light commercial vehicles in Europe, Ford intends to cease production at the Saarlouis plant in 2025. Employing some 4,600 people, the facility has built the Focus hatchback, slated to be discontinued. According to the WSJ, Ford is looking for vehicle production alternatives to retain as many of those employees as possible.