Defining the 'American Car': Toyota in Kentucky vs. Ford in Mexico
The term 'American car' is often bandied about in various contexts, but what does it truly mean? For many, it's more than just the place of assembly—it's a combination of brand origin, assembly location, and economic impact. In this article, we explore the cases of Toyota made in Kentucky and Ford made in Mexico, and why they often leave us with more questions than answers.
Toyota Made in Kentucky
Manufacturing Location: The vehicle is assembled in the United States, specifically in Kentucky.
Brand Origin: Toyota is a Japanese company named after Kiichiro Toyoda.
Employment and Economic Impact: Producing cars in the U.S. creates American jobs and contributes positively to the local economy. This benefits the state and federal tax bases, supporting infrastructure and public services.
Ford Made in Mexico
Manufacturing Location: The vehicle is assembled in Mexico.
Brand Origin: Despite being an American company, Ford is headquartered in the U.S.
Employment and Economic Impact: Manufacturing in Mexico leads to fewer jobs in the U.S. compared to a car assembled in Kentucky. This is because Mexico has a lower cost of labor, which results in more competitive pricing for consumers.
Conclusion: American Car Definition
The term 'American car' can be ambiguous. If we define it as originating from a U.S. assembly, then the Toyota made in Kentucky could be considered more 'American.' However, if we prioritize brand origin and ownership, the Ford made in Mexico would qualify as the American car. Ultimately, the definition can vary based on the criteria one prioritizes. Whether a car is American can often depend on personal beliefs and cultural contexts.
Short Answer: Ownership and Employment
When it comes to ownership and where the majority of wages and income are allocated, a Ford vehicle made in Mexico is still owned by an American company. However, a Toyota made in the U.S.A. is a Japanese-owned company, funded by and primarily supporting Japanese employees. Thus, while a Ford vehicle generates significant employment in the U.S., a Toyota might be seen as foreign because its economic impact is concentrated in Japan.
Longer Answer with Additional Information
When analyzing the concept of an 'American car,' it's crucial to understand the cultural and historical contexts involved. Many people define it based on their personal experiences and cultural backgrounds. In the U.S., buying an 'American car' often implies a connection to the brand's heritage and the jobs it supports. For instance, if a car is designed, assembled, and owned by U.S. citizens, it is often considered American.
The significance of these factors lies in the perception of economic and political patriotism. A Ford car made in Mexico is still considered American because it is owned by Henry Ford and his successors, who are U.S. citizens. Similarly, Chevrolet and GMC, licensed by Louis Chevrolet and William C. Durant, are American in origin because Durant and Chevrolet were U.S. citizens.
However, when it comes to Toyota, although it is manufactured in the U.S., it is owned by a Japanese corporation and primarily funds Japanese employees. This difference in ownership and labor distribution leads to the perception that a Toyota built in the U.S. is still a foreign-made vehicle.
Thus, the phrase 'American car' can be a hyperbole or jargon that carries hidden meanings, including ethnic favoritism. U.S. citizens who are of Irish, Scottish, or British descent often prefer Ford or GM because of their historical roots. Similarly, many U.S. citizens with Western European ancestry prefer domestic American brands for the same reason.