Ford of Europe boss confirms that a new SUV will also be on the horizon.
The United States has evolved into an SUV nation – it’s hard to deny. Ford has made the decision to stop producing cars in the United States, leaving only the Mustang and Focus Active in the lineup. Although this may be disappointing for some, it is what most car buyers want. Of course, Ford would do what the money commands.
This trend in sales isn’t just limited to the U.S. In 2018, SUVs have been in high demand across Europe. Last year, 35 percent of European vehicle sales were made up of SUVs. According to Automotive News Europe, Ford appears to be behind this trend. The company has been losing money with its European arm due to its traditional car range.
Ford of Europe is now focusing on strengthening its SUVs and commercial vehicles to make it more profitable. As Ford’s European passenger vehicle sales are only 27 percent SUV, the current SUV and commercial vehicle lineup will be undergoing a major overhaul.
With 153,542 units sold, the Kuga was Ford of Europe’s top-seller. Next was the EcoSport with 111.856 units sold. This is an increase of 78 percent over the previous year. The Edge midsize SUV was sold just 9,527 units. This is down 41 percent over the previous year.
Ford’s 2019 SUV lineup will be redesigned. The EcoSport will be replaced later in the year, while the Escape will be replaced by a new Escape. In Europe, a seven-seater version of the Kuga will join the lineup and eventually replace the Edge. Steven Armstrong, President of Ford of Europe, also stated that Ford will launch “another nameplate” this year.