It seems like car manufacturers can’t build hybrids or electric vehicles (EVs) fast enough to meet demand in the modern auto market.
While this might be encouraging for an auto manufacturer looking to expand its eco-friendly reach, Ford is reacting in a different direction. Instead of going full steam ahead in the electric market, Ford might be pumping the brakes for the time being.
The impacts of this brake pumping may impact more than just electric and hybrid vehicles.
What does this mean for shoppers looking for a great Ford? It depends. It might mean you’ll have to wait to bring home a new EV option, but it might also mean you’re better off shopping for something like a used Ford Explorer until things get back to normal.
The Burden of Success
Ford wasn’t the first to jump into the EV game, but it made a pretty big splash. The F-150 Lightning, for example, was an instant hit. This fully electric pickup truck was so popular that Ford stopped taking reservations for it. There are around 200,000 units already reserved, while Ford’s factory can only produce around 80,000 units a year.
Ford has also stopped taking orders for the hybrid version of its new mid-size truck, the Maverick. The innovative and highly-anticipated Mustang Mach-E electric SUV is still available. Jim Farley, Ford’s CEO, believes Ford will triple production in order to produce 200,000 units by 2023.
Building 200,000 models a year may sound impressive, but that number only represents about a quarter of the F-150’s numbers.
Production Delays
Just like other manufacturers, Ford is suffering from a delay of computer chip semiconductors. Automakers have to decide how to use the limited supply of computer chips available to them. When you consider the work involved in calibrating a vehicle production line, it makes sense that Ford might hold off on creating new EV production lines.
Without a larger workforce and increased supply line, Ford may have trouble keeping up with orders for the vehicles in their traditional lineup, let alone brand new options that require a completely new setup. That being said, Ford did purchase a plant in Mexico to help build up its Mustang Mach-E production numbers.
How Does This Impact Your Car Search
While the number of new Ford vehicles coming off of the production line has certainly dwindled, new options are still available. If you don’t mind waiting a little bit, grabbing a fresh version of your favorite gasoline-powered Ford is definitely still an option.
Many shoppers are looking towards pre-owned vehicles to scratch their itch for an upgraded ride. It’s important to note that the market for something like a used Ford Explorer is more competitive. That might mean the used Ford Explorer, F-150, or Expedition may cost a little more right now than it will when the market balances out more.
There are still plenty of Ford options that will get you excited for the time being. You may just need a little more patience and flexibility while things get sorted. Ford has to make some difficult decisions for now, which might just mean waiting a little longer for that EV you’ve been eyeing.
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