Ford Achieves Number One For July

Media Release
7 August, 2001

FORD ACHIEVES NUMBER ONE FOR JULY
AND RECLAIMS YEAR TO DATE TOP-SPOT

A strong July result has seen Ford New Zealand claim number one position for passenger and total vehicles sales for the month, and also reclaim total industry leadership for the year to date.

Ford enjoyed a particularly strong month, enjoying an 18.6% share of total industry in July.

Land Transport Safety Authority figures also show that Ford has a 16.4% share of total industry year to date, which is a lead of 90 units over its nearest rival. A further 57 units separate second place from third.

"The figures make great reading for Ford. We have enjoyed sustained growth over the past few months which has seen our market share steadily improve," said Ford New Zealand Marketing Manager, Steve Pleciak.

Continued growth has been attributed not only to the launch of a number of new vehicles throughout 2001, but also the strength and depth of the current Ford line-up.

New vehicles launched already this year include Laser XRi, new Mondeo, Escape, limited edition Utes such as 'Pursuit' and 'Marlin,' an enhanced Falcon range and the Tickford converted right hand drive Mustang.

"All of these new brands have met with particular success," said Mr. Pleciak.

"However, a key reason why our performance continues to be strong is that Ford has not relied on any one product and we continue to offer a selection of vehicles with widespread appeal."

The new Ford Mondeo, the 4X2 Courier and Falcon Ute also maintained their strong showing of previous months by continuing as segment leaders.

The Ford Mondeo outsold its nearest rival by more than 70 units, and is continuing to generate high demand that is close to outpacing supply.
"It is a good problem to have, but it is a problem nonetheless. We are working hard at securing supply, because if we had had additional units available for sale in July, we would have sold them," said Mr. Pleciak.

The Ford Courier was the top selling ute in New Zealand for July, and the Courier 4X2 outsold its nearest rival almost two to one.

The Falcon Ute range has continued to prosper, spearheaded by the XR6VCT and 200kW XR8 models.

Ford Laser had a solid result in a particularly competitive 'C' segment, and it's contribution - and that of the new model Ford Ka which recorded it's highest monthly sales tally in over a year - ensured that all segments of the marque contributed to Ford's overall achievement as market leader.

"It is pleasing that we have maintained segment leadership with established product such as the Courier and Falcon Ute, have developed a strong following with the Escape and the new Mondeo, and also sold large numbers of vehicles across all brands."

"As a company, we are tracking very well and we are confident that we have the product, such as the new Explorer and some exciting new offerings in the Falcon range, to continue this trend."

"We have already had considerable interest in the new Explorer in particular, and are eagerly awaiting its arrival."

New product and innovative developments are not confined to the realms of Ford vehicle offerings.

"We have put the Ford Escape in a place where it can't be missed – 60 meters up the side of the Southern Hemispheres tallest building. It is an exciting and eye catching promotion that dares to be different," said Mr. Pleciak.

"It is an appropriate representation of the Ford brand and our company – rising above the opposition and climbing to the top."

ENDS

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