Despite controversy over fuel mileage claims as a result of EPA testing procedures, Ford Motor Company has said that its new C-MAX has become the fastest-selling hybrid ever at launch, garnering 8,030 sales in its first two full months on the market in October and November. This significantly outpaces the Toyota Camry Hybrid’s 7,300 sales in its first two full months in May and June 2006.
Ford also said that C-MAX hybrids are also selling three times faster than the combined sales for the Toyota Prius and Honda Insight when they were originally launched back in 2000.
Ford sold 8,999 C-MAX hybrids through November, a figure projected to surpass by 40 per cent through December the combined Prius and Insight launch sales of 9,350 in 2000. C-MAX sales would represent four months compared to the initial combined 18 months of Prius and Insight sales.
“Dealers are seeing an overwhelmingly positive response to C-MAX hybrids and are excited to finally take on Prius, with some offering comparison test drives right on their lots,” declared C.J. O’Donnell, Ford group marketing manager, Electrification. “Our customers also are excited to have a fresh hybrid option, with leading fuel economy that does not sacrifice driving fun, performance and technology – choices typically not offered with hybrids.”
Ford achieved its best electrified vehicle sales month yet in November with a total of 7,157 sales, of which 4,848 were C-MAX hybrid models.
According to a study by Maritz, new vehicle buyers across the industry rate good fuel economy as the number one purchase reason.
“Fuel economy has become the number one purchase consideration as customers try to save money at the pump,” remarked O’Donnell. “C-MAX hybrids highlight Ford’s commitment to offer customers the power to choose leading fuel economy across our lineup.”
