Coronavirus In Michigan: Automakers To Shut Down Factories, AP Reports

Detroit (AP) — A person briefed on the matter says Detroit's three automakers have agreed to close all of their factories due to worker fears about the coronavirus.

Automakers are expected to release details of the closure later today. The United Auto Workers union has been pushing for factories to close because workers are fearful of coming into contact with the virus.

The person didn't want to be identified because the closures have not been formally announced.

The decision reverses a deal worked out late Tuesday in which the automakers would cancel some shifts so they could thoroughly cleanse equipment and buildings. But workers, especially at some Fiat Chrysler factories, were still fearful and were pressuring the union to seek full closures.

Honda Motor Co. announced Wednesday that it will temporarily close its North American factories for about one week starting on Monday.

Coronavirus