Ford and Vauxhall's decline in the future

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【Summary】Ford and Vauxhall, once dominant in the UK car market, may become less competitive in the future. Ford has already abandoned the supermini market and will discontinue the Focus in 2025. The rise of Hyundai, Kia, and Chinese car brands, along with the increasing demand for affordable electric vehicles, poses a challenge to Ford and Vauxhall. The future success of these brands will depend on their ability to adapt to changing customer preferences and deliver technology at an acceptable price.

FutureCar Staff Nov 15, 2023 8:18 AM PT

Ford and Vauxhall's decline in the future

In the 35 years since Auto Express was founded, Ford and Vauxhall have been constant topics of discussion and coverage. These iconic brands have been competing in the middle ground of the UK car market for generations, with models like the Fiesta, Nova, Corsa, Escort, Focus, Astra, Capri, and Calibra.

Even before Auto Express existed, Ford and Vauxhall were already giants in the country, and they continue to compete in key market segments. However, the future is uncertain. Ford has already made changes by abandoning the supermini market, and the Focus is set to disappear in 2025, leaving the Astra to dominate the family-car war. Additionally, Stellantis's UK-specific brand lacks a direct rival for the Mustang Mach-E.

But the real challenge for these two famous brands comes from Hyundai and Kia, originally known for their value-focused approach but now targeting premium customers. The Chinese newcomers also pose a threat. With the 2035 deadline for petrol and diesel new-car sales, there is a race to establish themselves as suppliers of affordable, efficient, and well-equipped electric vehicles. Ford and Vauxhall have been dominant players in the accessible market, but the competition could become intense.

While it would be unfair to say that Ford and Vauxhall have been caught off guard, buyers are still determining what they consider an acceptable price for the technology offered in this rapidly evolving era. Ford and Vauxhall would likely prefer a quick resolution to this question so they can focus on delivering what customers want.

What are your thoughts on this? Share your opinions in the comments section.