Ford, despite discontinuing the Fiesta hatchback and heading in a similar direction with the Focus, is not adhering strictly to an SUV-only strategy. The automaker is considering smaller non-SUV additions to its electric vehicle (EV) lineup in Europe, although final decisions about future models are pending.
After the Focus is discontinued in 2025, the only non-SUV offering in Ford’s lineup will be the Mustang. However, Martin Sander, General Manager of the Ford Model e division in Europe, suggests that this could change. He stated that there is ‘definitely’ room for low-slung models in their future EV lineup, potentially catering to the needs of those who prefer non-SUV vehicles.
In an interview with Autocar, Sander mentioned that Ford has ‘not made a decision on future products’ following the launch of two VW-based models in the European market: the Ford Explorer and the upcoming Ford Capri, which will share the MEB underpinnings with the VW ID.4 and ID.5, respectively.
Last year, reports surfaced that Ford was in discussions with VW about collaborating in the small EV hatchback segment. This could result in an electric Fiesta successor, joining upcoming models like the VW ID.2, Skoda Epiq, and Cupra Raval. However, Ford is also developing its own EV architecture, expected to enter production in the middle of the decade.
Additionally, there have been reports of a small team within Ford secretly working on an entry-level EV with a starting price of $25,000 and a targeted launch date in 2026. When asked about this, Sander refrained from confirming if this model would make it to the European market.
Sander emphasized Ford’s commitment to iconic, emotional products and its core values of solid quality and value for money. He stated, “We are not going back into a volume race just to hit a certain number at the plant or be in a segment where others are.”
Aside from the VW-based crossovers, Ford’s European range will soon expand with the fully electric Puma Gen-E and the recently facelifted Mustang Mach-E. The automaker’s approach reflects a strategic shift towards a more diversified and competitive EV lineup in Europe.