FORD JUST KILLED ONE OF THEIR BEST-SELLING MODELS

EV Channels Review

Ford has officially discontinued the Escape, a move the reviewer labels a 'travesty for affordability' and a significant mistake for the brand's long-term strategy. The Escape, a best-selling model and Ford's first hybrid, is being phased out to retool the plant for future electric vehicles, including a $30,000 midsize pickup truck. Dealers are reportedly 'livid' as the Escape represented a substantial portion of their sales volume and served as an entry-level option. The reviewer highlights the Escape's historical significance, particularly its revolutionary hybrid technology derived from Toyota suppliers, and criticizes the design of its third and fourth generations. While acknowledging the shift towards EVs, the reviewer argues that the market still demands affordable gasoline and hybrid options, which Ford is now neglecting. The discontinuation is expected to inflate prices for other models like the Maverick and Bronco Sport due to reduced overall Ford volume and limited production capacity at the Mexico plant. The reviewer concludes by lamenting the loss of an affordable, popular model and expresses hope for the return of hybrid technology in more accessible Ford vehicles.