The global computer chip shortage crippling new vehicle production has hit a popular model. A labor union at a Ford assembly plant in Hermosillo, Mexico, said the automaker would halt the Bronco Sport SUV production on October 11 and October 12 due to an inadequate supply of parts necessary to complete the vehicles.
The Bronco Sport, unrelated to the larger Bronco aside from its name and its rugged positioning, has proven a hit for Ford. Through the end of September, the automaker has sold about 81,000 Bronco Sport models in the U.S. On its own, the Bronco Sport has outsold the entire Lincoln lineup and has become the automaker’s third best-selling SUV behind the larger Explorer and lower-priced Escape.
The Bronco Sport shares a platform with the Escape but comes only with 4-wheel drive and off-road appearance and performance packages.
Reports from Mexico have not indicated just which parts Ford needs to continue Bronco Sport production. It’s not uncommon for automakers to keep mum about parts shortages, especially when production is only halted for a day or two.
Separately, the larger Bronco, built in Michigan, has been subject to numerous production setbacks due to various parts shortages and issues with its available hardtop. See Ford Bronco Sport models for sale
