Ford is making plans to retool some of its plants in the U.S. to manufacture small cars that the company has already been selling in Europe.

This move serves the purpose of aiding the company in increasing the production of cars with fuel-efficiency in North America.

In an effort to make more vehicles in the U.S. that are fuel-efficient, Ford has looked into bringing over models from Europe, such as the Mondeo.

This is the biggest step to date by any of the Big Three carmakers in response to the grave bind that is faced by the auto industry.  Damaged by the poor economy, car sales this year have dropped dramatically.  And with fuel prices at $4 a gallon, motorists are seeking small, fuel-efficient cars and leaving behind the SUVs and pickup trucks that the Big Three were known for.

Consumers are doing everything possible to protect their wallets, such as purchasing new car warranties, and fuel-efficient cars.  And automakers, like Ford, are trying to survive by suiting consumers’ needs.