Ford is reorganizing its management in Europe as the automaker shifts the market toward electric vehicles (EVs).
After losing its European head to Volkswagen, Ford is reorganizing its business operations to put the brand back on a growth path.
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Martin Sander, Ford's top European executive, left the company earlier this month to join Volkswagen as its new head of sales and purchasing. The loss is significant, as Sander played a key role in the launch of the company's first electric vehicle in the EU, the electric Ford Explorer.
Production of the electric Explorer began earlier this month at Ford's new dedicated EV facility in Cologne. The electric Explorer is the first EV to come from the 2020 partnership with VW and uses its MEB platform.
Sander's position will be eliminated as Ford reduces the number of employees at its European headquarters in Cologne.
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Ford announced the changes are part of a broader “transformation of its European operations.” Starting July 1, 2024, Ford will have four managers instead of nine in Cologne.
This reorganization simplifies the company's management structure, said Kieran Cahill, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Ford-Werke GmbH. Cahill explained that this move allows us to act more quickly as Ford seeks to revitalize its European operations.
According to German news outlet Automobilwoche, Ford's management changes in the EU come as the company struggles to remain viable. The report notes that the new electric Explorer needs to boost sales. Otherwise, "Ford could exit the automotive industry in Europe altogether in the medium term."
With about 98% of its profits coming from the US, Ford is moving cautiously in the EU. The second electric vehicle based on Volkswagen's MEB platform is expected to be revealed soon. The company plans to start production of this second EV, after the Explorer, later this year.
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In the US, Ford was the second-best-selling electric vehicle brand (excluding combined Hyundai and Kia) in the first five months of 2024. The Mustang Mach-E is the third-best-selling electric car, behind Tesla's Model Y and Model 3 .
Meanwhile, the F-150 Lightning remains the best-selling electric pickup in America. However, Tesla Cybertruck are increasing, while new electric trucks are appearing on the market.
Earlier this month, Ford reduced Mustang Mach-E lease prices by up to 400% to maintain demand.
See also: Tesla: Recalling 11,000 Cybertrucks due to problems
If you're looking for a new electric vehicle (EV), now could be the perfect time to start shopping, as prices are at rock bottom. You can use our links to find deals on Ford electric vehicles at a dealer near you.
Source: electrek
