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Ford Otosan Craiova
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The Ford Otosan plant in Craiova is one of Europe's most modern and highly automated car factories, with a rich industrial history that began with the Oltcit brand in the 1970s. Acquired by Ford in 2008 and later transferred to Ford Otosan in 2022, the facility has benefited from investments of more than 2 billion euros. It produces the Ford Puma, one of Europe's most popular compact SUVs, as well as the new Transit Courier commercial vehicle range. The plant also includes advanced engine sections, where the award-winning 1.0-liter EcoBoost unit is manufactured. Craiova was selected to produce Ford's first fully electric model built in Romania, marking a historic moment for the local industry. With thousands of robots and global quality standards, Ford Otosan Craiova is the central economic pillar of the Oltenia region.
- Location: Dolj, Romania
- Top sights: Vila Mircea · Antonov An-24 · Galeria ElectroPutere
- Nearby: Balș (21 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | 1 | 6 | 12 | 17 | 22 | 24 | 24 | 19 | 12 | 6 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 44 | 40 | 47 | 49 | 75 | 84 | 71 | 50 | 54 | 59 | 50 | 52 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
Ford Otosan Craiova is a modern automotive plant that assembles Ford passenger cars and commercial vehicles for the European market. It represents a key investment in Romanian industry, creating thousands of jobs and supporting a vast supplier network.
Visiting
The factory is a high-security production site not open for casual tours. Occasionally, special open days or events allow limited public access; check the Ford Romania website for updates.
Where to view it
The best public view is from the nearby DN6 highway or from the industrial park's entrance area where you can see the large assembly halls. The iconic Ford logo on the main building stands out from the surrounding landscape.
Local products
The most visible local product is the Ford models built here, such as the Ford Puma or Transit Courier, which can be seen on roads throughout Romania. Dealerships in Craiova sell these cars directly to customers.
Active season
Production runs year-round, but activity is highest during the launch of new models or when the plant introduces annual upgrades. Summer shutdowns are common for maintenance, reducing activity briefly.
Nearby
Combine a visit to the Ford plant with a stop at the Craiova Art Museum or the beautiful Nicolae Romanescu Park. The nearby villages in Oltenia offer traditional crafts and local cuisine worth exploring.
Geography
Facts
- Ford took over the Craiova plant in 2008 from Daewoo.
- The Ford Puma, produced exclusively in Craiova, is a sales leader in its segment.
- Total investments in Craiova have exceeded 2 billion euros.
- The engine section produces the famous 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine.
- Since 2024, the plant has produced fully electric versions of its models.
- Ford Otosan is the largest exporter in the Oltenia region.
- More than 600 industrial robots are used in the body and paint shops.
- The industrial complex covers more than 100 hectares in Craiova municipality.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Ford Otosan Craiova (3)
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Frequently asked questions
What cars are built at Ford Otosan Craiova?
Currently, the Ford Puma and Ford Transit Courier are produced there.
Is it possible to visit the production line?
Visits are strictly regulated and mostly reserved for professional visitors.
Who is the current owner?
The plant is operated by Ford Otosan, a joint venture between Ford and Koç Holding.
Is there a factory gate for photos?
You can photograph the main gate with the Ford logo from the outside, but no details.
How important is the plant for Craiova?
It is one of the largest employers and economic drivers in southwest Romania.
Ford Otosan Craiova: where is it located?
Ford Otosan Craiova is located in Dolj, Romania.
Ford Otosan Craiova: what is there to see?
Highlights include Vila Mircea, Antonov An-24, Galeria ElectroPutere.
Ford Otosan Craiova: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
Ford Otosan Craiova: why is it worth visiting?
The Ford Otosan plant in Craiova is one of Europe's most modern and highly automated car factories, with a rich industrial history that began with the Oltcit brand in the 1970s.
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Nearby cities
Craiova
Craiova is the historical capital of Oltenia and a major economic and academic center in southwestern Romania.
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Danube port.
Dăbuleni
Dăbuleni is a distinctive town in Dolj County, located in the southern extremity of Romania, within the historical region of Oltenia.
Poiana Mare
Poiana Mare is a significant settlement located in Dolj County, positioned in the vast Oltenian Plain of southern Romania.
Sadova
Sadova is a significant commune in the southern part of Dolj County, Oltenia region, located near the Danube River.
Segarcea
Segarcea is a historic town in Dolj County, located in the heart of the Oltenia region, southwestern Romania.
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