UPDATE: Ford’s Mustang faces a significant challenge in the U.S. market, with sales plummeting by 14.2 percent in the first half of 2024. The iconic car sold only 23,551 units during this period, raising concerns about its future in America.
However, an unexpected twist reveals that global demand for the Mustang is thriving, with more sales occurring outside the U.S. than within its borders. In a revealing podcast interview with The Verge, Ford CEO Jim Farley confirmed this trend, indicating that the company remains committed to investing in the Mustang’s future.
Farley expressed optimism, stating, “everyone wants to do a burnout,” emphasizing the Mustang’s appeal as a quintessential American vehicle. This sentiment fuels Ford’s strategy to not only keep the Mustang on the market but also to enhance its long-term viability through significant financial investments.
While some enthusiasts have criticized the Mustang’s locked ECU, Farley downplayed these concerns. Interestingly, he shared that even his son chose an older model over the current S650 generation, citing tunability issues. This issue may soon be moot, as HP Tuners has recently cracked the ECU, opening up new possibilities for aftermarket modifications.
Speculation is brewing about potential new models in the Mustang lineup. Reports from Automotive News hint at a possible Mach 4 sedan and a Baja-like off-roader. Such additions would align with Ford’s strategy of expanding the Mustang brand, particularly as the Mach-E crossover has already been branded under the Mustang name.
The prospect of a hybrid Mustang is also on the table, reflecting the tightening emissions regulations in Europe and other regions. Despite this, Farley reassured fans that the traditional gas-powered Mustang will remain available well into the 2030s. He previously stated that there would never be a Mustang EV—at least not outside the Mach-E branding.
As rumors of lineup expansion continue to circulate, the potential introduction of new models is gaining traction. With Farley hinting at new releases, enthusiasts and consumers alike are eager to see how Ford leverages the Mustang brand to introduce fresh offerings.
In summary, while the Mustang faces challenges in the U.S. market, its international appeal provides a silver lining for Ford. The company’s commitment to investing in the Mustang’s future, alongside potential new models, suggests that this iconic vehicle is far from finished. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story, as Ford navigates the future of the Mustang in a rapidly changing automotive landscape.