SVT's future to include three distinct segments

Recently, Ford's SVT product director Hau Thai-Tang said Ford decided the performance division "still fits," and would not be discontinued as some had thought. In a recent interview with AutoWeek Thai-Tang provided further explanation of Ford's plans for SVT. He said SVT would offer products in three distinct categories...





The first segment, according to Thai-Tang is the performance division as it exists today. As previously noted, Ford currently plans only two vehicles in this category, for the time being. The first is the Shelby Mustang GT500. The second will be a new truck based on the F-150. AutoWeek speculates an SVT Focus could also be in the works, but Thai-Tang makes no reference to it.

The second segment will include "race-inspired" vehicles. Previously, this would have included the Ford GT supercar. Although Ford has discontinued the GT, Thai-Tang's comment make a successor seem likely.

The third segment will focus on "enhanced performance" -- appearance packages, minor performance modifications, wheels, and so on. These accessories will be sold aftermarket via dealers. Thai-Tang said past examples from Ford would include the Bullitt and Mach 1 Mustang.