When even MSN ceases to be your cheerleader . . .
Ford’s EV Plan in Trouble
MSN | 09/13/2023 | Douglas A. McIntyreFord was supposed to be able to build 600,000 electric vehicles (EVs) this year. Then, it wasn’t. The date was pushed back to the end of 2024. Now, Ford may be unable to sell all those EVs, even if it hits that production number. Too few people want an F-150 Lightning, Ford’s electric flagship. According to Bloomberg, Ford has raised production of the hybrid F-150, a watered-down version that helps save gasoline and the environment. Jim Farley, [ a watered down version of a ] Ford CEO, says he is surprised by the demand for the hybrid version. He failed to mention that it is a sunsetting of his plan for Ford’s future and aspirations.
The hybrid F-150 is cheaper than the Lightning. Apparently, pickup drivers did not warm to its high price. The hybrid engine is ancient compared to EV engines. Cleverly, Ford did not say the lack of demand for the Lightning may be permanent.
Hybrid means gas powered with a little electric boost, so no EV range anxiety. I’ve had my F150 hybrid for over a year and haven’t had any issues. With careful driving I can get over 600 miles out of my 30 gallon gas tank.
It is not a question of how many can they build but how many can they sell?
Remember, electricity can flow in two directions, so a typical EV can flip from chargee to charger at the whim of some government bureaucrat…
With the F-150 Lightning, Ford had to change their old acronym to “Found On Road Discharged.” “F—ed On a Raw Deal” still stands, though.