The brand is content with the current situation, despite delayed launches.
Although the new Ford Explorer is one of the most popular models , it was not launched in a smooth manner. Although the large SUV has been recalled at least ten times ( literally), the automaker believes the new-vehicle launches are improving in quality.
Automotive News‘s Hau Thai-Tang, Ford’s VP for product development and purchasing, said he was pleased with the current launches. He acknowledged the difficulties surrounding the Bronco’s launch and the Mustang Mach-E’s, but he said they were “very typical”, especially during times of global crisis.
Thai-Tang stated that “Overall, we’ve been very pleased with the launches so far.” When you look back at last year, there were three major launches. We hit all the launch dates and ramp volumes as planned after we adjusted for COVID shutdown.
He said that these are standard steps in Ford’s build and hold process. He also stated that inspections do not affect the delivery of vehicles to customers.
He explained that “we have connected-vehicle information now, so it’s possible to see in real time some of the initial quality results.” “So far, the run rate at zero month in service has seen us seeing approximately 45 percent less quality claims this year than last year. This is yet another sign that the process works.
Thai-Tang explained that the delayed launches for the new Bronco, and the Mustang Mach-E were due to an “industrialization problem” with one supplier. Webasto is the Bronco’s supplier. They have problems with the roof delivery. Thai-Tang declined the name of the supplier for the Mustang Mach-E.
He said that both cases are complex and involved complicated issues. The tools were also installed with overseas support. It was complicated by COVID absenteeism but we are on the right track.