BlueOval SK (SK On) announced on the 6th (local time) that it will lay off approximately 150 employees at its Stanton, Tennessee plant.

One resident told a local broadcaster, "This is disappointing for the people in this area. When I was young, there were so many businesses in Stanton. I thought it was a big city when I was little, but now it has declined."

This layoff is a follow-up to Ford's decision in December last year to dissolve the joint venture (JV) established with SK On after halting its electric vehicle production plans at BlueOval City.

Consequently, the Stanton plant in Tennessee will be solely owned and operated by SK On going forward. Meanwhile, Ford will be responsible for operating the two battery plants in Kentucky.

The electric vehicle center in Tennessee is slated to be renamed the Tennessee Truck Plant and plans to produce gasoline trucks instead of electric vehicles starting in 2029.

SK On plans to maintain the Tennessee plant as a key base for battery production in North America, with operations expected to begin in 2028.

Kelly McAlister, a spokesperson for BlueOval, stated in a press release that the 150 affected employees will receive their usual salary and benefits for the next 60 days.

The local community expressed disappointment, stating, "This was already anticipated when the joint venture was dissolved."

However, Stanton Mayor Norman Bowers Jr. expressed his belief that despite the difficulties and impact of these layoffs, Stanton will successfully navigate and rebound in the long term.

Mayor Bowers said, "We have secured a commitment of $5.4 million in pilot project funds from BlueOval plant suppliers, which will be used to redevelop a vacant lot next to City Hall. We hope to break ground this summer."

The mayor added that the funds will also be used for fire station expansion, local park construction, and potentially an outdoor amphitheater.

Reporter Hong Seong-gu, NNP USA / Special Contribution NNP info@newsandpost.com