Rationalisation of the world motorcar industry following the financial crisis and the pressure on the major automakers to cut models, presents a challenge for FORD Australia.
FORD Australia president Marin Burela said that the Global One program would make a decision on whether the next-generation large car will switch to a front-drive platform in 2010.
Marin Burela revealed the new deadline last week and also confirmed the current rear-drive platform would continue on in its current form until 2015.
"The all-new Falcon doesn't have to come into play until the end of 2014, early 2015, and we don't have to make a decision until 2011 on what that vehicle will be, in terms of styling, technologies …" he said.
Where this leaves the FORD ute is anyones guess. It also raises the question regarding Holden's view of the future for it's ute and the pressure that the pending release of the VW 4WD may have on the market as a whole.
What an opportunity for the Aussies if they can only cut through the American red tape. Have us supply them with our utes and get rid of some of their "pickups" off the road.
The saying ... "May you live in interesting times" ... holds very true.