Ford has sent an official notice to the union and others, notifying them of its intention, Solidarity said in a statement.
The jobs affected are 391 operator positions in Silverton car assembly plant in Pretoria, 73 at Struandale engine plant in Gqeberha and 10 administrative roles, the union said.
Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa confirmed the layoffs, saying in a statement that it was making necessary adjustments to its manufacturing operations in both plants. These changes are part of our ongoing efforts to optimise production and respond to evolving market demands.