Source - Ford Motor Company press release.
Ford Motor Company announced May 2009 sales results -- and there's a (slight) hint of a turnaround. While total Ford Motor Company May 2009 sales are down 24.2 percent compared to May 2008, there are some bright spots in the May sales results just announced. For example, Ford, Lincoln Mercury May sales totaled 155,954, up 20 percent from April, and the highest sales for any month since July 2008. Ford Fusion, Ford Flex and hybrids set sales records. Stronger sales reduced inventories, which prompted Ford to announce production increases for second and third quarter.
New products helped Ford achieve its highest market share in three years, even as Ford decreased incentive spending in May. Sales of the Ford Fusion were 19,786, Ford Flex sales were 4,305 and sales of the company's hybrid vehicles totaled 3,906 - setting three new sales records. Ford's Lincoln brand also posted a two percent sales increase.
Mood in Dearborn is still tense
The mood in Dearborn is still tense, but employee morale in Ford's Glass House is better than it is at troubled crosstown rivals Chrysler and General Motors. GM declared bankruptcy on Monday and Chrysler's sale to Fiat is all but a done deal. Both GM and Chrysler have taken federal government aid. Ford is the only domestic automaker that has not taken any federal money. Rumors of additional staff cuts for salaried personnel continue to circulate among employees at all three domestic auto makers.
New merchandising program launched
To provide added incentive, Ford is launching a new summer merchandising program, "Drive the Ford Difference." From June 2 through June 30, Ford will cover up to three months' worth of payments up to $2,100, and Ford Credit will offer zero percent financing on select Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles.
"Consideration for our new products is increasing," said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, Sales and Marketing. "Even as the competitive environment intensifies, Ford's relentless pursuit of quality, fuel efficiency, smart technology and appealing designs is winning new customers."
More information about Ford Motor Company products and financial information can be found at Ford.com.
Comments
Of new vehicles on the market, or en route over the next few years, Ford is the principle manufacturer I'm eyeing.
As details of the government's "standing behind your warranty" come to light, and the promise looking more and more empty, I predict Ford to gain as GM and Chrysler sales to remain stagnant or falling.
Ford, if you're listening, a PHEV Transit Connect and an EV Fusion would be awesome. My Saturn SW2 is paid for and my Saturn Relay will be paid off next year.
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