We don’t normally report on the automotive industry itself because corporate moves don’t always impact the consumer, at least not immediately. But this morning Ford made a significant announcement — just days after naming a new CEO — that will start to trickle down to the consumer level over the next three years (and long after that, Ford is hoping). It’s big enough news that we decided to parse out the important parts as plainly as possible.
The announcement included buyouts for all hourly workers, a reduction in white-collar employees and more plant shutdowns, but what about products that we’ll be able to buy and drive? Here’s what we’ve been told:
A redesigned F-150 pickup truck will go on sale in 2008. This is Ford’s biggest seller, even with truck sales falling. The truck buyer is not going away anytime soon, and Ford wants to maintain its top spot among intense competition and new offerings from GM and Toyota, both of which have new models out in 2006 and 2007. Ford will also introduce a new Super Duty pickup in 2007.
The Ford Fairlane concept will be a large crossover vehicle – think Chrysler Pacifica – when it finally goes into production and on sale in 2008. It’s one of our favorite concept vehicles of the past few years, and if executed well could be a major hit.
There will be new Mustang derivatives – like the Shelby GT 500 – every year to keep interest in the sports car high. While we like the idea, we hope there are also plans for a new design before 2009.
The Lincoln Town Car will live on, as is. Ford will move production from a plant that is closing to one with reduced shifts. This will make limousine drivers happy, but has little impact on the everyday buyer.
Lincoln’s MKS sedan (shown in concept form here) will go on sale in 2008 sporting all-wheel drive. This model will be a litmus test for how well the Lincoln brand can truly compete with players in the near-luxury game, like Acura and Lexus. Ford can’t afford to make a misstep with this introduction.
Ford will get back into the small-car game in the U.S. by 2008, utilizing platforms in use in other global markets. Ford needs to revitalize its compact presence significantly and soon. Unfortunately, it sounds like any new cars in this segment won’t come to market for another two years.
Two out of every three Ford vehicles will be equipped with six-speed automatic transmissions by 2008. This is significant because a good six-speed will not only be more fuel efficient, but should also offer a more refined driving experience.
Ford is looking to dealers to “voluntarily” consolidate Ford, Lincoln and Mercury dealerships into single outlets. We see this as probably the most significant way for Ford to keep all three brands alive and well, with Ford as the clear flagship among the three.
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