Ford has begun work on an all-new Mach 1 crossover which will be unveiled around 2020. The crossover has been in Ford’s product plan for several years. Code-named CX430, it will be built on the C2 platform used for the new Focus.
The CX430 will be additional to the Kuga and, since it is based on the front-wheel-drive C2 platform, it is expected to be conventional hatchback-like, with a slightly raised driving position. Ford has identified ‘white paper’ models like the CX430 to replace sedans and hatches in its US line-up. Further crossovers with Mustang design cues and front-wheel drive chassis are a strong possibility because they combine “the best attributes of cars and utilities, such as high ride height, space and versatility”.
Ford will retain only the Mustang and Focus Active passenger cars on sale after 2020 in the North American market. Its bread-and-butter SUVs and trucks such as the Explorer and F-Series pick-up will continue, though.
The end of the Fusion and Taurus sedans from the North American market, as announced earlier, can also be seen in the context of a drive to simplify and reduce Ford’s global platforms to just five. Currently, it has 11. When Alan Mulally took over as CEO in 2006, it was 17. In the future, Ford's strategy will revolve around an emerging-markets small car platform (Ka), the C2 (Focus), a mid-sized SUV platform (Explorer), an electric car platform (Mach 1) and full-sized truck platform (F-Series).
Closer to home, Ford and Mahindra have formed an alliance which will initially build two SUVs together. An electric version of the Ford Aspire compact sedan is also part of the joint activities.
Uday Singh
Suraj Viswanathan
Dipan Sur
Lenny D'sa
Ameya Dandekar
