September 29, 2024 – According to a report by automotive media outlet Motor1, Ford CEO Jim Farley stated in an interview that the company intends to phase out “boring” models and shift its focus towards a series of “iconic” vehicles.
Ford has made the decision to discontinue several models, including the Fiesta, Focus, Fusion, and Taurus. In the European market, the Fiesta and Mondeo are also slated for gradual elimination, while the Focus is expected to be retired by 2025. It’s worth noting that these models will not have corresponding electric or next-generation replacements.
Farley acknowledged that while these models have been well-loved by many customers, it is not worthwhile to continue investing heavily in them.
Instead, Ford aims to change the game with several fully electric SUVs based on the same platform as Volkswagen. The all-electric versions of the Explorer and Capri, for instance, will be built on the Volkswagen MEB platform, sharing a “close connection” with the ID.4 and ID.5. Additionally, the crossover Puma will receive an electric derivative.
During the interview, Farley emphasized that the “iconic” models he referred to include the Bronco, Mustang, and F-150 Raptor. The Mustang, in particular, has given Ford the confidence to “compete with Porsche,” leading the company to plan increased investments in these enthusiast-focused vehicles. “For a long time, those enthusiast cars were sort of a side business that never really got funded, but they’re becoming our business now,” Farley said.
