Out Of Focus

Back in May, I wondered out loud on this blog whether the Ford Focus and Fiesta, still available in Europe, would return to the U.S. market, given the continuing increase in gas prices.  The short answer, regarding the Focus at least, is: It won't.  That's because the Focus is being discontinued in Europe in 2025.

Ford announced the news on June 22, adding that it doesn't know how to keep the German plant that makes the European Focus up and running once the car is axed.  Most of the 4,600 workers at the factory could be laid off, even as Ford plans to make more electric vehicles. "The reality of the industry," a Ford representative said, "is that the production of EVs will require fewer people."

That would be fine if an ID.3-like hatchback were in the works at Ford to replace the Focus.  Alas, Ford plans to make more EUVs, because, well, crossovers are gaining popularity in Europe too.

The Focus is on the way out.  The Fiesta is next. 😬