Ford to kill Mercury nameplate?
Rumors are flying that the Mercury brand is on death-row give it’s lack of new models and low sales numbers. This may indeed be the case and it wouldn’t be the first time, Mercury’s demise has been rumored, but it certainly seems like if it is indeed going to happen, now would be the time.
Lincoln Mercury dealers that were contacted said that Ford needs to work on the Lincoln brand and help solidify their franchises with products that appeal to consumers. There are even rumors of Mercury models being rebadged as Lincolns to help fetch a higher price and bring more business to that brand.
In the tough economic times, it is commonplace now for automakers to take a look at their lineups and scrap brands and models in favors of those that perform. We can look no further than GM, who has killed the Hummer, Pontiac, and Oldsmobile brands in recent times.
Mercury’s days may be numbered, but for overall success of the Ford Motor Company, that may not be a bad thing at the moment. Competition is fierce and belt-tightening is required in a global marketplace.
[The Detroit Free Press]
Bei GM Oldsmobile und Pontiac, bei Chrysler Plymouth (und Chrysler für Europa :D), und jetzt DAS...
Leutz, uns gehen allmählich die Alternativen aus!
