It is not easy to build cars right now.
Automakers are facing tough times. People don’t want new cars, but it’s not the case. Every manufacturer is suffering from supply problems due to the persistent COVID-19 pandemic and the global microchip shortage. The Ford Maverick or, rather, the cheapest version, seems to be the latest victim.
On September 7, a report from the forums at Maverick Truck Club stated that Maverick hybrid orders would not be scheduled until further notice. This is a scheduling bulletin that Ford sent to dealers. This is used to schedule vehicle orders, which can be placed by customers or dealers. While a delay was previously listed for dealer stock orders, this listing appears to be applicable to all Maverick orders. It is listed as for the time being, which is not uncommon in the automotive world. It could take a few days. It could take longer.
Ford was contacted by us to clarify the situation. We asked several questions, including why hybrid orders were not scheduled. We asked Ford if it was customer orders or dealer stock, and if EcoBoost orders were affected. We were provided with the following statement by a Ford representative:
Ford didn’t address the nature of parts availability for the Maverick hybrid, nor did they offer a time frame for when hybrid orders might go into production. Some forum members of Maverick truck Club have hybrid orders in the system. They state that their production dates are still active and some will be produced the first week October.
Ford seems to be able at least to produce the scheduled models, although there have been no cancellations. The scheduling has been halted on only hybrid models so it is safe to assume that delays are caused by the hybrid powertrain.
Ford was keen to promote the Maverick’s low starting price (before destination fees) of less than $20,000 in hybrid trim during its debut. Not to mention the compact truck’s 40-mpg rating in the city. We suspect that the truck will be unavailable for a while and that buyers of Mavericks may want to cash in on the low-cost hybrid, while EcoBoost models are available.