But only for those willing to go EV which is still a very small percentage of buyers.

But you need to kill the old to free up resources for the new one in most cases.

And a great choice for former Ford Escape and Ford Edge customers who want car-based models that aren't boring. My wife can vouch for this. 😊

I'd assume they could still have a pass-through window like on Maverick/F-series too, if they wanted

Sure......now apply it to Escape (and Edge).     I think BS is too small for many buyers.  And Ford currently goes from Bronco Sport ---------------> Explorer with nothing in between.  I know people will say Bronco, but it doesn't appeal to many buyers that want car-based models, and Mach E is an EV...     Nowhere did I say NOT to address the cost issue........my point was to address it and come out with a compelling product that works, instead of abandoning the segment.

Yes but while I'm sure they're profitable and represent the best utilization of C2, I bet those are still nowhere near a 8% margin.

It seems like that's the plan. Ce1 seems to be focused on aspiration, and not just being cheap. If Ford can streamline the cost of that platform, I see it forming the foundation for the return of a lot of vehicle types Ford abandoned.    Some sort of electric escape replacement for instance that's more compelling than the current escape and more profitable. Bringing back a sedan but making it a rwd affordable sporty sedan that aligns with no boring cars, that sort of thing. Maybe an electric version of an edge style of vehicle. 

But that doesn't address the cost issue which people keep want to ignoring and only focus on sales.  They need an exciting design and performance PLUS low cost to be viable.

That would work for most things.

They aren't technically leaving the segment since the Bronco Sport can cover part of it, depending on your viewpoint.    Your argument would hold more water in the case of the Edge though.