They could soon be rolling out ventilators.
Automobile manufacturers in the U.S. are assessing whether they can convert their plants to make critical medical equipment, like ventilators, that are—or soon will be—in short supply as the coronavirus pandemic spreads.
Under a law invoked by President Trump on Wednesday, the federal government has the authority to compel manufacturers to produce such equipment.
Ford, General Motors and Tesla have been in discussions with the White House about the possibility of retooling themselves to be massive medical suppliers, and it is unclear how long that could take.
”We are currently doing an internal study to understand the needs and capabilities and how we may be able to help during this crisis,” a spokesperson for GM said.
A Ford spokesperson said the company “stands ready to help the Trump Administration in any way we can, including the possibility of producing ventilators and other equipment.”
The CEO of Tesla has also indicated interest in producing ventilators, but warns the switch can’t happen “instantly.”
Closures of North American plants had already been announced by Ford, GM and Fiat Chrysler, and they are not expected to reopen for weeks at the earliest.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For the federal government to work with the automobile manufacturers in a way that would enable them to rapidly begin the production of medical equipment, such as ventilators.
- For the manufacturers and the possibility of recalling at least some of their factory workers in order to perform the work.
- For other industrial groups in the U.S. who have or who will step up to help Americans in this time of national crisis.
Sources: CBS News, NPR
