FORD have been forced to address the quiet discontinuation of one of their van models.
Last week, it was revealed that the Blue Oval had stealthily pulled the Ford Transit Trail from the market – with no word on whether it would be returning.
The Transit Trail, which only debuted some three years ago, was considered the perfect ride for drivers who wanted to live the so-called “van life”.
Indeed, the company initially marketed the vehicle towards lovers of the outdoors looking for a simpler way of life.
But it didn’t come cheap, with a starting price of around $65,000.
But just a few years on, Ford has silently removed the van from their website without formally announcing that it would be discontinued.
Following our initial report, Ford Pro communications manager Elizabeth Kraft told the US Sun: “Due to on-going challenges in the supply chain and part availability constraints impacting 2023 and 2024 Transit Trail vans, we’ve decided to remove the package’s availability while we prioritize delivering parts and service on impacted vehicles in the market.”
It seems another significant challenge to the Transit Trail is the decrease in demand for luxury off-roading, with the sales of RVs significantly falling since the pandemic.
In 2023, reports by the RV Industry Association show that the numbers were down by 49.2%.
Production issues also angered buyers, with many forced to wait to receive their Transit Trail after the model’s release.
In the comments section underneath a video advertisement of the van on Facebook, consumers warned others of the delays they’d experienced.
One person wrote: “Be prepared to wait; it took me over a year to get my 2022 Transit, and many folks had their orders cancelled in 2022.”
Another claimed to have ordered their car in November 2021 and still hadn’t received it at the time the video was posted on October 12, 2022.
A third commented: “Be careful, I ordered a 2022 last November and still haven’t received it. They are built in Spain, and mine hasn’t been built yet.”
This comes as Ford did announce it was set to push back the launch of a potentially top selling truck by at least a year.
The US automaker has reportedly been in contact with suppliers about a delay to the next incarnation of the F-150 pickup truck.
According to Automotive News, Ford is now set to keep the current model until 2028, having previously been expected to release the 15th generation iteration with both gas and hybrid power in 2027.
Code-named P736, the iconic pickup was set to be produced at Dearborn Truck and Kansas City Assembly – according to three auto supplier executives.
They were also informed that production of the current P702 version, first introduced in 2021 and refreshed in 2024, will be extended to 2028.
Ford also teased the idea of a standalone supercar with the iconic Raptor branding.
At a recent Ford Performance event in Charlotte, North Carolina, the brand’s CEO hinted that a high-performance off-roader could be on the cards.
In recent years, the likes of Porsche and Lamborghini have released the 911 Dakar and Huracan Sterrato respectively, both to widespread acclaim among gearheads.
This proves that there is certainly a market for off-road-influenced sports cars.
Speaking to Top Gear at the event, Ford CEO Jim Farley said: “We’re in the middle of creating something, so we don’t have all the answers yet, but the question is, should Ford make an off-road supercar?
“Not a version of a car, a standalone supercar. That’s what we’re trying to answer.
“What do we do on a utility car? Is there a supercar? That’s what we’re debating now.”
Things to keep in mind when renting a car
According to The Boston Globe, every person renting a car should take a few minutes to check some boxes before committing to a rental car.
Keep in mind that rental companies are responsible for keeping cars mechanically sound. If you’re ever in a situation where you have to wait longer than 90 minutes for a tow truck, they advise to leave the keys in the rental and demand a refund as long as other transportation options are available (such as a ride from a friend, Uber, or Lyft) Be cautious about roadside assistance packages. Most packages cover instances like leaving keys in the car or running out of gas, but any mechanical issues are on the company. An accident, though, is the renter’s responsibility and will be charged to your insurance, not the company’s. Certain memberships, like AAA or AARP, may get you a discount on rentals. Some companies offer insurance for a small fee, though you’re already covered by your personal insurance. Before declining rental insurance, it may be wise to double-check that your insurance is covering the rental. Perform a visual inspection of the car before leaving the lot to protect yourself from damage claims from the company. When returning the car, make sure the gas level is as close to the same level as when you first drove off to avoid a refueling charge. Research different rental companies before committing to one. Some may have better reviews or warranties than others. Keep all contact via email or text in case a claim needs to be made later. If you see any scratches or dents on the vehicle, be sure to take pictures with a time and date stamp to avoid damage claims.Source: The Boston Globe
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