I know this is routinely your position, but do you actually have any statistics that can back this claim up? I’m not trying to be argumentative, I would just like to know.   I don’t hold that same position. I believe there is a benefit to getting people into your brand at an early age, which typically means in more affordable cars. Once a person has a connection to a certain brand, and that experience is good, I believe they will consider them again. This is purely anecdotal based on my observations, people I know, etc., so I don’t have statistics to back up my statement.  

On this, we can agree. When I say passion products and icons, let me clarify, I'm talking about the st and RS stuff, not the boring rental shit. Revisiting a hatchback line where all the models had more styling and performance flair across the board might be the key to making people care about Ford hatchbacks again.

I didn’t realize that Canoo had filed for bankruptcy.  I liked their approach to vehicle development.  Their products were definitely different, but had a purpose to their design. 

Urban myth.  People who buy cheap cars aren’t brand loyal.  By contrast Ford’s current products enjoy a lot of conquest sales.  

True, but there is an opportunity cost in axing affordable models in the pursuit of profit on a smaller number of vehicles. By doing so, they are not creating a pipeline of Ford loyal buyers. Instead, they are having to market more intensely to try and justify the increased prices. Do vehicles like the European Explorer and Capri really move the needle enough on this front? 

So that puts the casualties among start ups who were eyeing the USA market as Lordstown, Cannoo, Poterra, Fisker, Nevs (SAAB) and Nikola.   Tesla is on top with Rivian and Lucid still in the fight.   Faraday Future is probably the next to die. 

Correct.  I'm sure the 360 turning mode on BEVs is too, otherwise you destroy tires (and other bits) quickly.

The two best selling segments in Europe are small and compact SUVs.  Also 4 out of the top 6 segments.  They’re moving to crossovers and away from cars just like North America.

No they’re not.  The ST and RS models were but nobody bought them.  They’re just cheap basic transportation that have to compete on price alone.

They say that's meant for loose terrain only, though.