Beyond 2015: Ford confirms Falcon and Mustang will share platform.
1/17/10, 09:59 PM
#61
Ford will be putting out a purpose-built LEO vehicle soon(ish). Rather than compromising a good retail car for the cops, or compromise a good cop car for retail, they're separating the two somewhat. And I wouldn't say GM is "most likely" doing a "Chevy G8" or retail Caprice here, every other week their story changes.
1/18/10, 01:49 PM
#62
Team Mustang Source
1/18/10, 01:54 PM
#63
Meanwhile, Mulally told Melbourne's the Herald Sun newspaper: "We have learned so much from the Falcon. But as we go forward we'll continue to use all our assets around the world. Whatever that Falcon morphs to, for the next one, it will be available around the world."
He also gave the clearest sign yet that rear-drive was here to stay. He told the newspaper: "The whole thing about rear drive? We're going to have a rear drive car. And we've got the Mustang, so you can imagine going forward that there will be a version of the Falcon that will be even better. In capital letters."
He also gave the clearest sign yet that rear-drive was here to stay. He told the newspaper: "The whole thing about rear drive? We're going to have a rear drive car. And we've got the Mustang, so you can imagine going forward that there will be a version of the Falcon that will be even better. In capital letters."
1/18/10, 01:57 PM
#64
GTR Member
Interesting article.........although I guess little based on facts. I'm sure the Australians won't give up RWD easily, so I'm still hoping there's a future for RWD for more than just the Mustang.
1/21/10, 07:30 AM
#65
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In light of MT's recent garbage on this matter, here's something I know - and I think many here would agree, considering the poster - is a fair bit closer to what is factual. It also makes sense, considering Ford Au is a well established engineering centre.
In all honesty, nothing is really truly set in concrete yet, except for the general idea to leverage Ford of Australia's RWD engineering on a global scale. Lots of really good ideas on the table. Mustang and Falcon will share parts and some engineering, and Lincoln and Thunderbird will probably end up in the picture.
In my head, based on what I've heard as being on the table, combined with my own opinion, here's my take:
-There should be two versions of this new GRWD platform... one for sedans, one for coupes. The Mustang needs a unique rear-end and floorpan to accommodate the fastback. Regarding coupes, they should expand to include a Lincoln coupe and a Falcon coupe. Similar underpinnings, but the Lincoln built in Michigan, and the Falcon built in Australia, wearing Falcon-esque skin.
-Regarding sedans... there should be two general bodyshells. A more upright, formal bodyshell, and a swoopier 4-door coupe bodyshell. Sell the upright one as the next-generation MKS and Falcon (and a cheapo version as a police interceptor), and the swoopier one as a Thunderbird and a smaller Lincoln companion, MKR. The swoopier one can share some parts with the Mustang, even.
-Regarding large sedans... import the Taurus to Australia to sell as the Fairlane.
Ultimately, we end up with two factories building this platform, with two versions (coupe, upright sedan), along with a tweener 4-door coupe.
I think it could work, and we may end up seeing a final plan fairly close to that.
In my head, based on what I've heard as being on the table, combined with my own opinion, here's my take:
-There should be two versions of this new GRWD platform... one for sedans, one for coupes. The Mustang needs a unique rear-end and floorpan to accommodate the fastback. Regarding coupes, they should expand to include a Lincoln coupe and a Falcon coupe. Similar underpinnings, but the Lincoln built in Michigan, and the Falcon built in Australia, wearing Falcon-esque skin.
-Regarding sedans... there should be two general bodyshells. A more upright, formal bodyshell, and a swoopier 4-door coupe bodyshell. Sell the upright one as the next-generation MKS and Falcon (and a cheapo version as a police interceptor), and the swoopier one as a Thunderbird and a smaller Lincoln companion, MKR. The swoopier one can share some parts with the Mustang, even.
-Regarding large sedans... import the Taurus to Australia to sell as the Fairlane.
Ultimately, we end up with two factories building this platform, with two versions (coupe, upright sedan), along with a tweener 4-door coupe.
I think it could work, and we may end up seeing a final plan fairly close to that.
1/21/10, 08:58 AM
#66
GTR Member
That sounds like an exciting and sensible plan. My only concern is the 4-door Thunderbird. Done right, it could be winner, but I'm sure there are many, like me, that would expect (and want) it to be another retro two door, only done better than the most recent version.
I guess we're going to here a fair bit about this during 2010 as I assume a firm decision will need to be made in 2011 as to the approach
I guess we're going to here a fair bit about this during 2010 as I assume a firm decision will need to be made in 2011 as to the approach
1/21/10, 10:01 AM
#67
I Have No Life
Wes is well connected and knows a lot.
Although there are somethings I don't agree with, but in general he's got great info.
Ford is on fire right now, and it doesn't look like the train is slowing down.
Although there are somethings I don't agree with, but in general he's got great info.
Ford is on fire right now, and it doesn't look like the train is slowing down.
1/21/10, 01:56 PM
#69
I Have No Life
That's one thing they DIDN'T want.
Mustang was suppose to go down in weight and a bit in size, not up.
Just look at the recent trend NOT to use the 5.8/6.2 engines in the mustang in favour of lighter engines.
Ford is on a tear to LIGHTEN vehicles.
Mustang was suppose to go down in weight and a bit in size, not up.
Just look at the recent trend NOT to use the 5.8/6.2 engines in the mustang in favour of lighter engines.
Ford is on a tear to LIGHTEN vehicles.
1/22/10, 10:25 AM
#70
Needs to be more Astony
I know, I just hope that ford can pull it off. Hopefully this is much different since they are developing both at the same time unlike the gm and dodge using platforms that were never meant to be small coupes.
1/22/10, 09:45 PM
#71
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Ford, do not make the mistake ChrIAT made. Say NO to a 4-door Thunderbird. Not even with RX-8 style doors. See what happened with the Charger? And look at where that company is now. 
1/23/10, 03:58 AM
#72
GTR Member
I'd prefer the Thunderbird to be a proper 2-door coupe or convertible. However, a 4-door coupe, done right, can look fabulous. The Mercedes CLS, VW Passat, Audi A5 Sportback......all great looking cars......or at least great looking, low slung saloons.
There were rumour Ford would produce a 4 door coupe version of the Mondeo. I know you chaps don't get the Mondeo over there, but I'd rather see them go this route if they want a 4 door coupe. The Thunderbird has too much history and heritage (despite some bad years) and it deserves another shot at being an iconic halo car for Ford. A well done retro look (the last one didn't quite pull it off for me) coupe is what I'd want.
There were rumour Ford would produce a 4 door coupe version of the Mondeo. I know you chaps don't get the Mondeo over there, but I'd rather see them go this route if they want a 4 door coupe. The Thunderbird has too much history and heritage (despite some bad years) and it deserves another shot at being an iconic halo car for Ford. A well done retro look (the last one didn't quite pull it off for me) coupe is what I'd want.
3/13/10, 02:43 PM
#73
Bullitt Member
The last version of the Thunderbird would have been fine if they hadn't put a 53 Corvette nose on it.
I would definitely be interested in another T-bird, although I would not want it to be a 4-door sedan. Leave that version for Lincoln. Thunderbird was always intended to be a personal luxury coupe and/or convertible. I still miss my Supercoupe.
I would definitely be interested in another T-bird, although I would not want it to be a 4-door sedan. Leave that version for Lincoln. Thunderbird was always intended to be a personal luxury coupe and/or convertible. I still miss my Supercoupe.
3/15/10, 03:25 AM
#74
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There was a 4-door T-Bird from '67-'71 and looked as good if not better than the 2-doors of those years, IMHO. But cars and public tastes have changed dramatically since then, so who knows how it would sell now?
Last edited by IWantMyNewGT; 3/15/10 at 03:28 AM.
3/15/10, 07:53 AM
#76
GTR Member
Hang on, I though 2012 is the year of The Boss 
http://www.thunderbirdnest.com/forum...d.php?p=289401
Recently, I had the privilege of speaking in person to Carl Yarber, Saleen/Ford Specialist, of Team Ford - Marietta, Georgia. We spoke in detail about the Thunderbird, the COP problem, about customer service, about the shake up in top management, and that we should expect to see many Ford dealerships closing in the near future.
Some of the highlights that Carl spoke about:
2010 will be called "The Year of the Mustang". (ok Mustang lovers, that news is out of the way....nuff said, I have no details on the new Mustang, but thought you would be pleased to hear that bit of info)
Now most importantly, Thunderbird lovers will be pleased to hear that our beloved Thunderbirds will make a comeback in 2012. Ford will call 2012 "The Year of the Thunderbird". When asked if the car would be a 4 seater, Carl replied "Ford has never even considered bringing back the 4 seater, the 2012 Thunderbird will definately be a 2 seater". Carl stated the biggest change in the Thunderbird will be the materials used in making the car, with emphasis on a lighter weight car and fuel economy. That is about all I was told, except that he did say "Thunderbird lovers will love this car". Yes, there is a prototype Ford is working with now, but Carl was not forthcoming with any other details other than what I mentioned above.
Carl stressed that we should all read the book "1908, The Year That Changed Everything". He said that only after reading that book will we understand what Fords future goals will be for the next 100 years. A panel of Ford executives was put in place and as a result of reading and studying that book, all upper top management were let go recently and a whole new management team was set in place with new goals. The main goal being a return to customer service and satisfaction, and getting those lost and unhappy customers back into the Ford dealerships again.
When I mentioned Fords "NO customer service", he said that Ford realizes their mistakes and intends to change and some of those changes have already been implemented. He said in the months to come we will see big changes in dealerships and a new better relationship with the customer. The dealerships around the country are all being reviewed and not to be surprised when we see the doors of some close. He said to keep in mind that "all changes and closures will be for the good".
We briefly spoke of the COP problems with the Thunderbird, there was no need for me to explain or go into detail as Carl knows about the COP issue and all he could say is "hopefully Ford's position on taking care of only the 03 car will change soon to include all retro Thunderbird years". He says Ford is aware of how unhappy we are with their decision to take care of only the 03 owners. I can't stress enough how many times Carl said to continue to call customer service,
1-800-727-7000, and to begin the conversation with "I am a service customer with a service concern". As I mentioned above Ford is under all new management, and there is now in place a special team who acts on complaints from customers with special needs or complaints. In other words, there are key trigger words that you might use in your conversation with customer service that they are told to react to immediately and switch your call to this new team who will then really listen and react to your complaints. Carl told me that "special team" has the authority to override any decisions made by your dealership that made you unhappy enough to call customer service in the first place.
Carl then gave me his business card and told me to call him anytime with any Thunderbird issues or complaints that I can't get resolved through customer service and then called his new general manager over and introduced him to me. That man also gave me his business card, and on that business card I not only saw his work number but his cell phone number. He also told me that if I have any issues that customer service will not help me with, I should call his cell phone any time of the day or night and he will take care of the problem for me.
Well Carl was right when he said I will notice some new changes immediately, how many of you out there have your dealerships general managers cell phone number?
So Thunderbird owners, in short, I know Carl was sincere and honest in the information he gave me. Now all we can do is wait and see if it all happens as Carl described it. At least now we know when our Thunderbird will make another appearance. I don't want to wish the next 4 years away, but I'm very excited and I eagerly await the new Thunderbirds appearance in 2012,
http://www.thunderbirdnest.com/forum...d.php?p=289401
Recently, I had the privilege of speaking in person to Carl Yarber, Saleen/Ford Specialist, of Team Ford - Marietta, Georgia. We spoke in detail about the Thunderbird, the COP problem, about customer service, about the shake up in top management, and that we should expect to see many Ford dealerships closing in the near future.
Some of the highlights that Carl spoke about:
2010 will be called "The Year of the Mustang". (ok Mustang lovers, that news is out of the way....nuff said, I have no details on the new Mustang, but thought you would be pleased to hear that bit of info)
Now most importantly, Thunderbird lovers will be pleased to hear that our beloved Thunderbirds will make a comeback in 2012. Ford will call 2012 "The Year of the Thunderbird". When asked if the car would be a 4 seater, Carl replied "Ford has never even considered bringing back the 4 seater, the 2012 Thunderbird will definately be a 2 seater". Carl stated the biggest change in the Thunderbird will be the materials used in making the car, with emphasis on a lighter weight car and fuel economy. That is about all I was told, except that he did say "Thunderbird lovers will love this car". Yes, there is a prototype Ford is working with now, but Carl was not forthcoming with any other details other than what I mentioned above.
Carl stressed that we should all read the book "1908, The Year That Changed Everything". He said that only after reading that book will we understand what Fords future goals will be for the next 100 years. A panel of Ford executives was put in place and as a result of reading and studying that book, all upper top management were let go recently and a whole new management team was set in place with new goals. The main goal being a return to customer service and satisfaction, and getting those lost and unhappy customers back into the Ford dealerships again.
When I mentioned Fords "NO customer service", he said that Ford realizes their mistakes and intends to change and some of those changes have already been implemented. He said in the months to come we will see big changes in dealerships and a new better relationship with the customer. The dealerships around the country are all being reviewed and not to be surprised when we see the doors of some close. He said to keep in mind that "all changes and closures will be for the good".
We briefly spoke of the COP problems with the Thunderbird, there was no need for me to explain or go into detail as Carl knows about the COP issue and all he could say is "hopefully Ford's position on taking care of only the 03 car will change soon to include all retro Thunderbird years". He says Ford is aware of how unhappy we are with their decision to take care of only the 03 owners. I can't stress enough how many times Carl said to continue to call customer service,
1-800-727-7000, and to begin the conversation with "I am a service customer with a service concern". As I mentioned above Ford is under all new management, and there is now in place a special team who acts on complaints from customers with special needs or complaints. In other words, there are key trigger words that you might use in your conversation with customer service that they are told to react to immediately and switch your call to this new team who will then really listen and react to your complaints. Carl told me that "special team" has the authority to override any decisions made by your dealership that made you unhappy enough to call customer service in the first place.
Carl then gave me his business card and told me to call him anytime with any Thunderbird issues or complaints that I can't get resolved through customer service and then called his new general manager over and introduced him to me. That man also gave me his business card, and on that business card I not only saw his work number but his cell phone number. He also told me that if I have any issues that customer service will not help me with, I should call his cell phone any time of the day or night and he will take care of the problem for me.
Well Carl was right when he said I will notice some new changes immediately, how many of you out there have your dealerships general managers cell phone number?
So Thunderbird owners, in short, I know Carl was sincere and honest in the information he gave me. Now all we can do is wait and see if it all happens as Carl described it. At least now we know when our Thunderbird will make another appearance. I don't want to wish the next 4 years away, but I'm very excited and I eagerly await the new Thunderbirds appearance in 2012,
Last edited by Twin Turbo; 3/15/10 at 08:01 AM.
3/15/10, 12:24 PM
#77
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I'd love for that to be true, but much has happened in the last 2 years. There is a distinct lack of supporting evidence right now. Not saying it won't happen, but (unless they're doing a first-class job of keeping this quiet) I'm starting to doubt 2012.
3/15/10, 01:03 PM
#78
GTR Member
Whilst we're veering off topic, I think you're right. However, I want to believe there's a new T-Bird on its way. What would it be based on though? Does it make sense to base it on the current S197 platform? It's surely to early to use the 2014/15 Mustang platform.......but it could be a version of the new Taurus. I hope not, I'm sure it's a good platform, but for an icon like the T-Bird?
2 seater retractable hardtop? 4 door 4 seater? I still want a 2+2 in the mould of the 49 Concept.
2 seater retractable hardtop? 4 door 4 seater? I still want a 2+2 in the mould of the 49 Concept.
3/15/10, 01:12 PM
#79
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2012 would be highly unlikely, IMHO, or else there would already have been much more of a buzz on all the Internets.
If there are plans for a revived T-Bird, I would imagine it would share the upcoming Mustang/Falcon rwd platform sometime after '14 or so.
If there are plans for a revived T-Bird, I would imagine it would share the upcoming Mustang/Falcon rwd platform sometime after '14 or so.
3/15/10, 01:40 PM
#80
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There will be a new Thunderbird in 2012. And it will certainly be a "Triumph".
http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/642/60...s-by-2012.aspx
http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/642/60...s-by-2012.aspx