Possible Foxconn upgrades could signal new partnership with foreign automaker

Foxconn in Lordstown is awaiting approval from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to proceed with upgrades to its plant. 21 News reported on this request last month, but the permit filing lacks specific details.

A media representative from Foxconn told 21 News that they are not revealing much at this time, but advised us to watch for an upcoming announcement. 

An automotive analyst suggests that a foreign car manufacturer is likely to be involved. John McElroy from Autoline believes European or Asian automakers are potentially eyeing the facility. 

"Foxconn has been very interested in taking an equity position in Nissan. Nissan, also, by the way, has a lot of equity in Mitsubishi. They both need to be able to build more [electric vehicles] in the U.S." McElroy said. 

McElroy noted that new tariffs imposed by President Donald J. Trump are motivating foreign automakers to consider American manufacturers.

"Every imported car coming into the U.S. right now...no matter where its coming in from the world, it's getting hit with a tariff." McElroy said. 

While this development could lead to job growth, McElroy said it does not necessarily mean that the vehicles produced will be immediately affordable.

"Even if these companies that do not have U.S. manufacturing [but] move manufacturing to the United States, it's going to be more expensive." McElroy said. 

If the U.S. EPA raises no objections to Foxconn's permit, the final approval to begin work is expected to be issued in the first week of August.