It appears as though Ford will forgo a global luxury division to better focus on streamlining core operations of its Blue Oval brand. The new strategy will be focused on fewer vehicle platforms, more parts sharing worldwide and reducing the number of V6 models.
Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s global product development chief, said the automaker will reduce its number of vehicle platforms by 40 percent over the next five years, with 70 percent of all models built off just 10 platforms, according to The Detroit News. In addition, the company is planning on reducing the number of six-cylinder models from eight to two and trimming the number of seat frames from 28 to 2.
Ford ’s CEO Alan Mulally also confirmed the company’s plan to sell Jaguar and Land Rover and that the company is still considering the sale of Volvo . There is no plan to sell Ford’s share of Mazda . Mulally commented on the changes by saying, “This is a new Ford.”
