In the aftermath of Toyota’s recent struggles and in light of recent successes at Ford, Edmunds.com has predicted that in 2010 the Ford Motor Company will surpass Toyota and become the number two automaker in US sales.
Ford long held the number two position in US auto sales behind General Motors, but Toyota ultimately stole that spot in 2007 on its way to becoming the biggest automaker worldwide. In addition to picking up sales from consumers steering clear of Toyota in recent weeks, Ford is launching a number of new models that have already received plenty buzz, including the compact Fiesta, updated Edge crossover, and all-new 2012 Focus.
Aside from Ford’s substantial gains, Edmunds.com not only expects to see GM and Honda pick-up additional slack from Toyota’s struggles in the short term, but sales industrywide are expected to increase, including among Nissan, Hyundai, and Chrysler.
Toyota’s share of the US auto market was 17% at the end of 2009, which quickly faltered at the start of 2010 as the automaker’s much-publicized recall troubles stirred consumer concerns over vehicle safety. Although Toyota is taking strides to ensure customer safety and satisfaction, other automakers are looking to capitalize on this vulnerability. Ford, GM, and Hyundai, are all running attractive incentive programs particularly designed to lure current or potential Toyota customers.
Although Toyota is expected to recover from their recall woes in the long-term, Edmunds.com suggests that these incentives are working, as the number of drivers trading in their Toyotas for another brand has increased in recent weeks.
* * *
Subscribe now for more automotive news or check back often.
You must log in to post a comment.