In a recent statement that sent shockwaves through the industry, former U.S. President Donald Trump accused Canada of "stealing" the North American auto sector, a claim that stirs controversy as we delve into the rich automotive history of Windsor, Ontario. This Canadian city has been a cornerstone of automotive manufacturing since the early 1900s, during the era of Henry Ford.

Let's rewind to 1904, the year Chrysler's iconic minivan and the Ford Model C were both born in Windsor. It's here that Henry Ford launched Canada’s first large-scale automotive manufacturing operation, a significant move in the industry that set a precedent for cross-border trade in North America. As Ford established the Ford Motor Company of Canada, he was able to avoid heavy tariffs by manufacturing cars in Windsor, which was strategically beneficial due to its geographical proximity to the U.S.

Former Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association CEO Brian Kingston pointed out that the automotive cross-border trade began to take shape in Windsor due to its close ties to U.S. factories across the river. "Windsor is really foundational to the story of automotive," he emphasized.

Trump's claims have emerged amid ongoing tensions sparked by the trade deals he negotiated, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which he had once touted as a monumental achievement. However, his rhetoric often overlooks the cooperative history and mutual benefits that have marked U.S.-Canada trade relations.

Canada's automotive roots date back to 1892, when the Dodge brothers founded a bicycle company in Windsor before branching out into automotive parts for American manufacturers. Fast forward to 1904, and the fabric of North American auto manufacturing began to weave itself more tightly, with the introduction of the Ford Model C. Initially, Ford produced just 117 cars in that first year, but the plant's innovation laid the groundwork for the future of both Canadian and American automotive industries.

Windsor’s industrial landscape has transformed over the years but has maintained its significance. General Motors established operations in the city in 1919, although its last factory shut down in 2010. Chrysler’s roots in Windsor can be traced back to its 1925 incorporation, soon becoming a hub for car production, including the famous Chrysler minivan that changed the industry forever.

Despite recent challenges, Windsor continues to adapt. The city's latest project includes the $6 billion NextStar Energy electric vehicle battery plant, marking Canada's strategic play in the evolving realm of electric vehicle technology. Kingston highlighted that this investment represents a vital step for Canada in the ongoing transformation toward electrification, allowing it to secure a role in the burgeoning EV battery supply chain in North America.

The interplay of historical legacy and modern transformation in Windsor serves as a reminder that the North American auto industry is not only a battleground for trade disputes but also a story of innovation, collaboration, and resilience. As the narrative unfolds, it's crucial to recognize the foundational contributions of cities like Windsor that shaped the very fabric of automotive manufacturing and trade across the continent.