So, it is not without great pride that we mention that Ford’s sales are up 20% for November of this year over last, and that total sales have been up 13% for the year overall. But we think the why of this story is much more interesting than the what.
It is no secret that Ford has seen an impressive rebirth from what could be considered rock bottom for the American auto industry in 2008 and into 2009. The turnaround has been incredible, considering that Ford was the only one of the big three not to take bailout money from the United States government. There are a number of structural factors, such as moving toward global platforms, and fewer factories producing more cars, thus creating better profit margins and the list goes on… but who really cares about the details, if Ford is not putting out products that people want to own and drive?
And what’s really interesting, is that in the midst of speculation about its very survival, Ford has taken the lead, and even some calculated risks on many of its offerings. Take Ford’s EcoBoost for example; It would have been one thing to develop the EcoBoost engine with all of its technical innovations, and put it into small cars such as the Fiesta and Focus. It might have even taken a bit of vision to offer it in the midsize Fusion and Taurus. But in a full size truck!? Ford really took a gamble here, and it paid off, big time. 1/3 of new F-150 buyers are opting for the more expensive (initially) EcoBoost in their trucks.
This is important for 2 reasons:
1. It shows that truck owners-traditionally concerned about power, and torque- are willing to invest in a full size truck that breaks from tradition and promises to be more fuel efficient.
2. The Ford F150 is the second best-selling vehicle of all time. That means that cutting edge technology, with an eye toward fuel efficiency, and oh by the way, a smaller environmental impact, is no longer a niche market.
In fact Ford’s lineup across the board is 19% more fuel efficient than it was in 2004. While many auto makers are making progress to keep up with stricter government regulations, none has been on the leading edge more than Ford.
Technology:
Ford has installed more technology across its model lineup than almost any other manufacturer- certainly at their respective price points. This technology integrates music, communications, navigation and vehicle functions into a system providing an impressive array of information and capability to the driver, and passengers. This has also allowed Ford to appeal to a younger buyer. 32% of new Ford buyers stated that the voice activated Ford SYNC technology was an important factor in their decision.
This technology is not only present in the form of electronics and device integration, but also in innovative features like the rear “kick gate” that allows owners of the Ford Edge to approach their vehicle, with their hands full, and open the rear gate by simply moving their foot under the center of the rear bumper.
Ford’s MyKey is another great feature that allows for parents to program a key specifically for young drivers to restrict top speed and stereo volume.
All of this is great, and it is nice to see a company like Ford be so progressive in its approach, but what it really boils down to is making great cars. And the experts are taking notice as well. The Ford Focus, and Mustang GT both made Car and Driver’s list of “Top 10 Best Cars,” and the F-150, Fusion, and Flex have won numerous accolades as well.
Reliability is up, safety is even better, and all the sudden, it’s cool again to drive a Ford. But don’t take our word for it, go into a local dealer, and drive one, or even request a Ford the next time you rent a car, and you’ll see what everybody is talking about;-)
– Global platforms
– Going green, gas mileage up 19% since 2004
– Fewer factories producing more vehicles. Profitibility of fewer units up.
DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 1, 2011 – Ford Motor Company’s November U.S. retail sales increased 20 percent versus a year ago. Total sales were 166,865, up 13 percent.
Ford estimates its retail market share has averaged 15 percent in the last three months – its highest retail share in five years.
Ford brand retail sales were higher for most products, with double-digit gains posted by Fiesta, Fusion, Escape, Explorer, F-Series, Econoline and Ranger.
“With gasoline prices continuing to track higher than last year, consumers continue to value fuel economy – no matter what size or kind of vehicle best meets their needs,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “Most Ford products deliver best-in-class fuel economy and provide customers an opportunity to choose what best works for them – EcoBoost technology or electrified vehicles.”
Big Valley Ford Lincoln in Stockton, CA. We offer a great selection of new and used cars, trucks, crossovers, and SUVs. We also provide service and parts for all Ford models. For more information, please visit http://www.bigvalleyford.com.
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