Ford Motor Co. says it will eliminate 500 workers at its assembly plant in Oakville, Ontario.

Ford of Canada spokeswoman Lauren More said Wednesday that the automaker is phasing out the third shift in the plant's body and paint work areas over the next several weeks. She did not offer a firm date for when the cuts will be completed.

Ford is offering early retirement to plant employees as a way to achieve the cuts. A Canadian Auto Workers official says about 650 of the plant's more than 3,000 workers are eligible for the package.

More says softening U.S. crossover sales make the cuts necessary. The Oakville plant makes the Ford Flex and Edge and the Lincoln MKX.