Ford Motor Co. is planning to produce a hybrid version of its large SUV, the Expedition, complete with a new European V-8 diesel engine or gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain. The automaker has yet to confirm but Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president of product development for the Americas has said that the company is developing hybrids and diesels. This plan comes amidst the continued downward trend for Ford’s SUV sales.
Expedition sales fell by 29.8% in May compared to the same period last year. There is also an 82-day supply overload in dealer lots. The planned Ford Expedition Hybrid will compete with hybrid versions of GM’s Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon, both available in the market by late 2007. A hybrid Chrysler Durango is also scheduled for a 2008 debut.
July 7th, 2006 at 7:09 pm
I have the same model and color expedition shown above. The expedition completely suits my families transportation needs. The draw back to such a large vehicle is the gas consumption,and I would certainly purchace a hybrid model,should there be one available.Especially in the new (EL) model.
Regards,
Stephen Tressel,
August 8th, 2006 at 6:54 am
My wife and I need a large SUV and, in my opinion, Ford is the best truck manufacturer in the world. Toyota trucks are underpowered and tinny. I would prefer a good diesel engine over a hybrid. I think Ford is making the right decision by moving toward diesel engines and hybrid technology for its large SUVs.
August 8th, 2006 at 4:40 pm
Let’s face it - gas is NEVER going to be truly affordable again. Especially here in California.
As I long time Expedition and Explorer owner, the promise of owning a 2007 Expedition with a true hybrid engine get’s me pretty geeked about doing my part to converve engery while still driving a SUV which suits my needs exactly.
I just hope that this isn’t the all too familiar “bait-and-switch” to lure new buyers into the showroom. The buying public is now demanding the car companies go the extra mile to give us what we want and not the other way around.