Ford is basically the top of the heap when it comes to trucks. The F150 has been the best selling full-sized pickup for a when, and for a reason. There have been other truck models that have sold well within the past. The Ford Ranger, soon to retire, was also a popular model for a when. The only other truck that isn’t really an F series is the Sport Trac, a half truck, half SUV. The Sport Trac is also retiring this year. Only the F series is going to stay in the Ford truck line, as the automaker is washing house.
Sport Trac history no longer good enough
By the end of October, 2010, Ford won’t make another Sport Trac, according to the Courier-Journal. Ford is shutting down the line, as it is just not selling. Like just about any car, there is a cult following for it. Nevertheless, it just isn’t really enough to keep making them. Initially offered in 2000, sales held steady for several years at around 60,000, however afterward steadily declined afterward. This hasn’t been a great year for it either. Fewer than 6,000 have been sold so far. Small trucks are a declining market segment, making up only two percent of all auto sales. Though the models cost less at the dealership than the F150, it would cost more to keep making the Ranger and also the Sport Trac. The F150 out performs them in sales too well.
Ford strips the excess
Ford, just like GM, is trimming away the fat. The auto maker is getting rid of models and brands that aren’t selling. Ford will offer less than 30 different models worldwide, according to Automotive News. In 2006, Ford offered 97. Ford has sold off underperforming brands such as Aston Martin, Volvo, Land Rover and Jaguar. Also, Ford is closing one of its longest running brands. Earlier this year, the end of Mercury was announced.
Lean, mean automobile making machine
Why keep making vehicles that do not sell? Ford isn’t. The business is making some other changes. Cars will also me sharing more parts in common. Take the Fiesta, which has 10 variations offered worldwide. About 65 percent of the parts of that auto are shared with other autos. There won’t be a truck offered by Ford more small than the F150 by the end of 2011, as Ford believes the turbo V6 in the new F150 will appeal to more customers.
Articles cited
Courier Journal
courier-journal.com/article/20100925/BUSINESS/309260013/1008/NEWS01/Ford to end Sport Trac production in December
Auto News
autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100927/OEM04/100929868/1257
