Why Is Ford Killing Its Cars?

“Light trucks account for two-thirds of the U.S. new vehicle market…and that continues to rise.”

A Ford display at the 2018 North American International Auto Show.

A Ford display at the 2018 North American International Auto Show.

Jake Neher/WDET

This week, Ford announced it will phase out North American sales of sedans between now and 2022 in favor of its popular SUVs, SUV-crossovers, and trucks — in other words, it’s moneymakers.

Ford will also continue to manufacture the Mustang muscle car, and a new Ford Focus hatchback.

Some reports suggest GM isn’t far behind when it comes to stripping U.S. sedans from its lineup.

The Detroit Bureau publisher Paul Eisenstein joins Detroit Today with Stephen Henderson to talk about the implications of Ford’s decision.

“SUVs tend to make a lot more profit,” he says.

According to Eisenstein, the demand for crossover vehicles is growing rapidly.

“When you add it all up, light trucks account for two-thirds of the U.S. new vehicle market…and that continues to rise.”

Click on the audio player above for the full conversation. 

Author

  • Dynamic and diverse voices. News, politics, community and the issues that define our region. Hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Stephen Henderson, Detroit Today brings you fresh and perceptive views weekdays at 9 am and 7 pm.