Delivers best July in 31 years
Mike Sirach -
CleanMPG - August 04, 2010
Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited sees the best July since 1979 and is the best-selling automaker this month. Overall car sales increased 46 per cent compared to last July with overall sales up 2 per cent versus strong results last year. The increase in car sales was driven by strong products like the Ford Fusion, Focus and Taurus, resulting in almost half of all vehicle sales in Canada.
"Ford was the only major manufacturer to post a gain last July," said David Mondragon, president and CEO, Ford of Canada. "Last year Ford sales were up 47 per cent in July versus an industry decline of 7 per cent. Posting a gain after last year's increase is good, but given the comparisons, a 31 year July sales record is impressive."
In addition to the 46 per cent increase in car sales, total Lincoln sales also increased by 23 per cent compared to last July. Lincoln MKZ, MKS and MKX all saw sales rise 43 per cent, 6 per cent and 36 per cent, respectively.
"Consumers are seeing the strength of our new products, especially in our car portfolio," said Mondragon. "Ford Fusion continues to lead its segment and with the arrival of the all-new Fiesta, Ford is delivering vehicles that customers want and value. In fact, half of the Fiesta's sold were in Quebec -- the most competitive small car market in Canada."
Just announced, Ford will begin production this week of the most powerful diesel engine ever installed in a heavy-duty pickup. The 6.7-litre Power Strokeฎ V8 turbocharged diesel is now rated at best-in-class 800 lb.-ft. of torque and 400 horsepower, an increase of 65 lb.-ft. of torque and 10 horsepower. Current 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty diesel owners can get the increased performance through a free dealer-installed software upgrade to the truck’s powertrain control module.
"We are earning consumer confidence by offering vehicles with leading fuel economy, quality and resale value," said Mondragon. "In fact, the average resale values of Ford vehicles in Canada have increased 28 per cent during the past 18 months, according to the RVI Used Car Price Index which translates into an average increase of $2,196 per Ford vehicle, resulting in higher value and affordability for our customers."
The Transit Connect pictured is one of a total of 1,175 that the Canadian Post Office will purchase in 2010 to begin replacing its aging national fleet of light vehicles and modernize its delivery business.
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