25% of FoMoCo global sales will be hybrids, plug-in hybrids, EVs by 2020
By 2020 we could expect to see as much as 25% of FoMoCo”s global sales volume from hybrids, plug-in hybrids, electric vehicles, or any combination thereof according to Nancy Gioia, Ford”s director of global electrification. The figure could be as low as 10% however, said Gioia, as the technology is rapidly changing and demand is uncertain and unpredictable at best.
She is certain however, that battery prices will continue to fall while energy density rises, making the market prime for widespread implementation of battery or hybrid powered vehicles. Currently, there is approximately a $3,500 premium for a hybrid Ford Fusion as opposed to a standard one.
In the next three years, Ford is set to introduce at least five new vehicles with lithium-ion batteries. 2011 will see an electric Transit Connect van, and Focus electric. In 2012 the company will introduce a plug-in hybrid and its next-generation hybrid power-train.
By 2020, Gioia hopes to have hybrids account for about 70% of Ford”s electrified fleet, plug-ins 20%-25%, and pure electrics the rest. 2% of Fords current fleet is electrified.
“We want to be sure that we make a good first impression” on customers with Ford’s hybrids and electrics, Gioia said. Few people are willing to accept “trade-offs in performance and price. Ninety percent are willing to pay a bit more for an electric.”
– By: Stephen Calogera
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)
