But there was/is a plan to replace it. First there were 5 new EVs slated for Oakville, the the 2 three rows. Remember we’re not talking about a like for like replacement, just that the engineering, marketing and production resources would be reassigned to new products as opposed to just shutting them down.
Like a diesel electric train - the engine generates electricity that drives the electric motors. In this case it doesn’t need to provide all the power the truck needs - it just extends the range of the batteries.
I think 2010s to 2020s was Ford's transition from reasonably priced vehicles (with premium features) to just expensive. I think this is more obvious for North American and European models.
Looking at the bigger picture, Ford didn't utilize its regional plants. For example, in Australia, I think the Mondeo I believe was imported from Europe. This put it at a disadvantage over its Asian-sourced rivals.
I think they didn't lose money on the Camry.
The smart thing Toyota did is sell it in many different regions. Its sold in Asia-Pacific, Europe, and North America. That's how you spread the development cost of a vehicle.
Yeah, he had me until Edge. Edge is in fact the perfect example of a discontinued product with no plan to replace it, at least in the North American market, anytime in the near (or intermediate) future.
If the survey covered, for instance, the early months of this year, then I'm thinking that the launch of the new Nautilus held back Lincoln's advancement. If "repair visits" include visits to the dealership to have DSPs (recalls) dealt with, I can see it. Those with early 2024 builds like me have had to go in several times (my Nautilus is currently at the dealers for 3 DSPs, one to replace potentially faulty fuel injectors and two for software updates). These are in addition to two prior visits, one for a major software update to the infotainment system and another to have the rear shocks checked to be sure they had the appropriate amount of torque. Those buying their Nautiluses now won't see any of this because they were all early production issues and have been resolved either at the factory or by the dealer before the customer takes delivery.
All that said, I still highly recommend the vehicle. There is nothing else like it on the road in terms of luxury, technology and drive quality, and Lincoln, to its credit, has been very proactive in resolving early build issues.