The United Auto Workers union launched simultaneous strikes at three factories owned by General Motors, Ford and Chrysler owner Stellantis on Friday. The United Auto Workers union launched simultaneous strikes at three factories owned by General Motors, Ford and Chrysler owner Stellantis on Friday.

The United Auto Workers union launched simultaneous strikes at three factories owned by General Motors, Ford and Chrysler owner Stellantis on Friday, kicking off the most ambitious U.S. industrial labor action in decades.

The walkouts at the "Detroit Three" will halt production of the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler and Chevrolet Colorado pickup truck, along with other popular models.

"For the first time in our history we will strike all three of the Big Three," UAW President Shawn Fain said, adding that the union will hold off more costly company-wide strikes for now, but all options are open if new contracts are not agreed.

Fain laid out plans for the walkouts on Facebook Live, less than two hours before the expiration of the old contract.

The walkouts cap weeks of clashes between Fain and Detroit Three executives over union demands for a bigger share of profits generated by combustion trucks, and stronger job security as automakers shift to electric vehicles.

The standoff has become a political issue, with President Joe Biden, facing re-election next year, calling for a deal.

The strikes involving a combined 12,700 workers will take place at assembly plants operated by Ford in Wayne, Michigan, GM in Wentzville, Missouri and Stellantis' Jeep brand in Toledo, Ohio. They are critical to the production of some of the automakers' most profitable vehicles.