Yesterday we talked a bit about Ford announcing that it would be killing off all the cars other than Mustang and Focus Active. What we didn’t know at the time was when that would happen. A rumor has now surfaced that claims to give dates to most of the cars dying off.
Timeline for Ford’s Car Phase-Out
Word is that the Focus will see the end of life in May 2018, which is next month. This means that the production of this popular compact car will cease, marking the end of an era for many loyal Focus owners. The big Taurus, a staple in Ford’s lineup for decades, will live on until March of 2019, about a year from now. The Taurus has been a significant model for Ford, especially in the 1990s when it was one of the best-selling cars in the United States. The Fiesta, known for its affordability and fuel efficiency, will die off in May of 2019, giving it another year to live. This compact car has been a favorite among young drivers and those looking for a budget-friendly option.
The Future of the Focus and Focus Active
As for the Focus, word is that the car will soldier on for “at least a couple more years.” This suggests that while the standard Focus may be phased out, there could be special editions or limited runs that keep the nameplate alive for a bit longer. The Focus Active, which is set to hit US shores in mid-2019, will be a Chinese import. This crossover variant of the Focus is designed to appeal to the growing market for SUVs and crossovers, offering a higher ride height and more rugged styling compared to the standard Focus.
The decision to import the Focus Active from China is part of Ford’s broader strategy to streamline its global manufacturing operations and cut costs. By consolidating production in fewer locations, Ford aims to improve efficiency and profitability. This move also reflects the changing dynamics of the global automotive market, where crossovers and SUVs are increasingly favored over traditional sedans and hatchbacks.
Ford’s decision to phase out most of its car lineup is a bold move that underscores the company’s shift in focus towards trucks, SUVs, and crossovers. This strategy is driven by consumer preferences, which have increasingly leaned towards larger vehicles in recent years. The success of models like the Ford F-150 and the Ford Explorer has demonstrated the strong demand for these types of vehicles.
However, this shift also raises questions about the future of the automotive industry and the role of traditional cars. While SUVs and crossovers offer more space and versatility, they are generally less fuel-efficient than smaller cars. This could become a significant issue as fuel prices fluctuate and environmental concerns grow. Additionally, the move away from cars could limit options for consumers who prefer smaller, more maneuverable vehicles.
In conclusion, Ford’s decision to kill off most of its car lineup marks a significant shift in the company’s strategy. While the Mustang and Focus Active will continue to be available, the end of the Focus, Taurus, and Fiesta signals a new direction for Ford. This move reflects broader trends in the automotive industry, where consumer preferences are increasingly favoring larger vehicles. As Ford adapts to these changes, it will be interesting to see how the company balances its focus on trucks and SUVs with the need to address environmental concerns and provide a diverse range of options for consumers.
via Autoblog
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