Ford C-Max Hybrid, Ford’s first hybrid-only line of vehicles that was only available in Europe, has now introduced a 2013 C-Max Hybrid model in the United States, which was released in September 2012. Ford invested a huge amount of money in research and development in hybrid technology with an aim to become “America’s most affordable hybrid utility vehicle.” The hybrid model is developed to compete with Toyota Prius, the world’s best-selling hybrid car. The hybrid model base 2013 retail pricing starts at $25,995, including destination and delivery charge. The price is $1,350 below the Toyota Prius v, a van-like vehicle.
A federal government fuel economy rates C-Max Hybrid at 47/47 mpg city/highway while Toyota Prius v and Honda Civic Hybrid were rated at 44/40 mpg and 44/44 mpg. This shows that Ford is able to deliver better fuel economy, which allows it to beat its competitors in the industry. Even though Toyota Prius is the first mover an the largest producer of hybrid vehicles and gain competitive advantage in the market, Ford challenges the “plain styling” of Prius with its “fresh” and “modern looks.” Ford believes that it has developed a better vehicle. Ford C-MAX Hybrid “Says Wheeee” Commercial
The features of C-Max hybrid are shorter at14.5 feet long, bumper to bumper than a regular Prius. Moreover, it has comfortably raised driving position, optional high-grade amenities and smart tech displays. C-Max Hybrid is designed to have more space with the extended cabin and tall rear. A driver does not plug in the C-Max Hybrid, because electric power is generated onboard, stored and then routed out of the onboard battery pack. Another development is that C-Max has a maximum horsepower of 141 while Prius and Prius v have only 98 horsepower. This is enough for a travel range of more than 500 miles.
As I read the article, I can relate it to our recent class lectures. Ford applies many concepts we learned in order to stay in a competitive market. Ford uses a low cost of the product strategy to enter the market. It uses reverse engineering by inspecting competitor’s product to improve its products. It is able to translate customer needs in a current economy when gas prices are high into the product by using quality function deployment. Lastly, it focuses on hybrid vehicles by reducing the use of fuel. This shows that Ford is concerned about sustainability and environmentally-friendly production. Because C-Max Hybrid is more fuel efficient, roomier, cheaper, and faster, I think that it is possible that Ford C-Max Hybrid will be able to beat Toyota Prius, a top-selling hybrid car.
Questions:
– Do you think that Ford C-Max Hybrid would be able to launch successfully in hybrid vehicle market?
– What do you think would prevent C-Max Hybrid to gain market share of hybrid segment from Toyota Prius?
Sources:
http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/max-hybrid-ford-challenges-prius-17443886#.UHm1chzgzBD
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_C-Max
Image source:
http://www.ford.com/cars/cmax/features/