Ford Encounters Another Setback as Critical Aluminum Supplier Experiences Third Fire | Carscoops

      The Novelis plant in New York is responsible for supplying 40 percent of the aluminum sheets utilized by automotive manufacturers in the United States.

      Recently, the aluminum facility in Scriba, New York, faced its third fire incident in a brief span. This factory serves as a crucial provider of aluminum for several significant automakers, including Ford, which incorporates the material into its F-150 model. The plant was initially impacted by a major fire on September 16, which sparked concerns regarding its production capabilities that persist.

      The most recent fire occurred on Thursday morning in the same area of the plant where the September incident took place. Firefighters responded rapidly and contained the fire by 10:15 a.m., but Novelis did not confirm that the fire was fully extinguished until around 4 p.m.

      Reports indicate that the fire originated in the hot mill section before progressing to the roll shop, a vital aspect of the facility's operations. Since the September incident, Novelis had been operating continuously to address the damage caused by the first fire.

      A smaller fire occurred on October 10, further highlighting the plant's vulnerabilities and raising concerns about the recovery timeline.

      The full scope of the recent damage is still unknown, leaving automakers preparing for more disruptions. The Scriba facility produces approximately 40 percent of all aluminum sheets required by U.S. car manufacturers. On a global scale, Novelis commands nearly half of the automotive aluminum sheet market, making this single plant a pivotal player in vehicle production. Early projections indicate it may not resume operations until next month, adding to the uncertainty for its clients.

      Ford has previously indicated that the closure following the September 16 fire could result in up to $1 billion in lost earnings, in addition to necessitating factory shutdowns in Tennessee and Michigan. The F-150 notably relies heavily on aluminum to reduce weight.

      A Novelis representative informed CNY Central that all employees were safely evacuated after Thursday's fire. While safety remains the top priority, each postponement in reopening exacerbates logistical and financial challenges for automakers. Should the factory's restart date be delayed again, Ford and other manufacturers could experience further production slowdowns just as supply chains were beginning to stabilize.

      In an update, Ford released a joint statement with Novelis concerning the latest fire at the New York facility.

      "The fire was quickly contained, and the plant was safely evacuated with no injuries to personnel, contractors, or emergency responders," the companies noted.

      "As of this morning, the cold mill and heat treatment operations at the Novelis Oswego plant are back in operation. The facility continues to dispatch completed materials to support Ford. Novelis will utilize alternative sources, including its global network and industry partners, to lessen the impact."

      Additionally, Novelis affirmed its commitment to bolstering the U.S. aluminum supply chain, which includes the development of a new facility in Bay Minette, Alabama, set to begin commissioning in the latter half of 2026.