Ford’s first hybrid-only model to be a minivan in 2012, plug optional
C-Max to be a hybrid-only model in the US
Taking on the Prius V
Later this year Toyota will launch the Prius V, a larger minivan-like Prius. Next year, Ford will launch its own minivan-like hybrid, the C-Max, and it will be Ford’s first hybrid-only model, at least in the US.
Currently, Ford offers the C-Max in Europe and planned to offer a 7-passenger version of the gasoline powered C-Max in the US. Ford has since decided to focus on a hybrid-only version instead for the US market.
Unfortunately, early details are still a bit sketchy. Is the 41 mpg+ C-Max hybrid going to be a hybrid version of the 5-passenger European C-Max, or the 7-passenger version originally intended for the US? My source, the DetroitNews, wasn’t clear. But the 5-passenger version seems the most likely candidate.
For instance, last year Ford announced it was going to build C-Max hybrids and plug-in hybrids in Spain beginning in 2013 based on the 5-passenger version. Since Ford’s “one Ford” strategy seeks commonality across platforms and countries, a 7-seat version seems unlikely in the short term. It’s just not very one-ish, (and an updated visit to Ford’s website confirmed the C-Max hybrid and plug-in hybrids will be based on the 5-seat European C-Max).
Nevertheless, I’d leave to see a 7-seat version, as such a vehicle might truly rewrite the book on minivans.
Anyway, in addition to the hybrid C-Max, the C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid is also due out in 2012. Both vehicles will be built alongside the Ford Focus, including the electric version, and both vehicles will utilize lithium-ion batteries.
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I agree, that it is time for a 7-passenger minivan hybrid. Soccer moms would line up to get one…..assuming the price is reasonable.
I like Ford’s “One Ford” global strategy. When I lived in Europe back in the 80’s, Ford had unique models in Europe that did not exist in the US. It sounds like Ford is remembering where it came from (being the first company to mass produce cars). Ford’s “One Ford” strategy takes that mass production to a global level.
If they can get an affordable 7-passenger hybrid to market before Toyota, they can get themselves back into the hybrid market in a big way. They’ll need more than their typical 25,000 annual production though.