European customers will receive a Mustang-inspired EV and an imported SUV in return.
Ford revealed details about a major reconstruction plan it is starting in Europe. This strategy is part the company’s “broader, global vision of providing intelligent vehicles for a smart planet” and should help the company recover its regional business and return to profitability.
The new plan focuses on the company’s Russian operations. In August, its factory in Bordeaux will cease producing small-sized automatic transmissions. Ford will also combine Ford UK headquarters and Ford Credit into a single location in Dunton, Essex. Reuters reports that these transformations will “slash thousands” of jobs.
Steven Armstrong, group vice-president and president of Ford of Europe said that “We are taking decisive actions to transform the Ford company in Europe.” “We will make investments in the segments, vehicles, segments, markets, and vehicles that are most likely to support a long-term sustainable business. This will create value for all stakeholders, as well as provide emotive vehicles to customers.
The automaker will import an additional SUV from the U.S. to Europe, which is likely to be more appealing to existing customers. We expect Ford to bring the new Explorer into European showrooms. It is already in Russia.
A new Mustang-inspired, full-electric utility vehicle will also be launched on the continent in 2020. Every new Focus model sold in Europe from now on will come with an electrified version. This can be a mild-hybrid or full-hybrid vehicle, PHEV, or full-battery electric. This announcement covers both new models and updated vehicles.
Ford is looking at reducing the European compact MPV market and is currently in formal talks with its Works Council. The S-Max and Mondeo are not mentioned. They are also rumored to have been on the cutting block .