Ford breaks first time 7,000 sales threshold

Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA) had its best sales month with 7,269 vehicles sold last month, recording a year-on-year improvement of 26 percent. As a result, Ford also posted a record market share of 13.4 percent this year. 

In the words of Rob Crouse, general manager, FMCSA, “Setting a new sales record in South Africa is testament to the growing portfolio of cars trucks and sport utility vehicles (SUVs) that we continue to offer our customers here. Earlier this year we entered new territory when we broke the 6,000 sales milestone for the first time.”  

The general manager assured that Ford will continue to work hard to deliver the best service and a world class line-up of vehicles and technology that customers want and value.

National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA) reports industry sales are up 11.5 percent, year-on-year, and total industry sales year-to-date down 2.6 percent. The report stated that the domestic market was expected to register a decline, in volume terms, of between 4 percent and 5 percent compared to 2013.

Record-setting sales total includes strong performances from the Ranger, EcoSport, Figo, and Fiesta. Ranger set another all-time record with 2,629 truck sales, cementing its second position in the Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) market. To date, Ranger has set all-time sales records six times in 2014 and its desirability among buyers has helped it be a consistent best-seller.

Fiesta sales were the highest since September 2005, with the compact hatchback moving more than 1,238 vehicles sold last month. Boasting smart technologies including SYNC and EcoBoost, more consumers are finding value in a modern vehicle that meets their mobility requirements while remaining fun to drive.

“We’re offering consumers vehicles with the type of technologies that are easy to use, and complement their daily lives,” said Crouse. “Ranger and Fiesta remain sought-after, long after their initial launches – clearly buyers continue to find value thanks to these features.”

Another vehicle equipped with an award-winning EcoBoost engine is the EcoSport compact SUV. Last month, it continued its segment leadership, with 788 vehicles sold and the entry-level Figo achieved sales of 1 511 vehicles.

MIKE OCHONMA