Final Ford Fiesta rolls off production line in Cologne
The last Ford Fiesta will roll off the production line on Friday, marking the end of almost 50 years of history for the UK’s best-selling car. Ford will produce the final model in Cologne, Germany before the plant is modified to produce more electric vehicles. Since its launch in 1976, the Fiesta has been a popular choice for those seeking smaller, more efficient cars, with over 22 million units produced globally. In the UK, the Fiesta has outsold all other car models, becoming the country’s best-selling vehicle every year between 2009 and 2020. Last year, it was the 10th most popular new car, with over 25,000 registered.
Legacy and Popularity
Despite the vast selection of car brands available, the Ford Fiesta has maintained its popularity in the UK. It has consistently outsold all other car models and held the title of the country’s best-selling vehicle for more than a decade. The Fiesta’s success can be attributed to its appeal to a wide range of customers. With its compact size and fuel efficiency, it has been a favorite choice for urban dwellers and those looking for economical transportation. Its affordability and reliability have also made it a popular option for first-time car buyers.
According to figures from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), there were 1.5 million licensed Ford Fiestas in use on UK roads in 2022, surpassing the numbers of all other car models. This demonstrates the enduring appeal and widespread adoption of the Fiesta among British motorists.
The Rise of Electric Vehicles
Ford’s decision to end Fiesta production and shift focus towards the production of electric vehicles reflects the global push towards sustainable transportation. With the increasing demand for electric cars and the need to reduce carbon emissions, car manufacturers are embracing electrification as an opportunity to reinvent their brands and cater to eco-conscious consumers.
The shift to electric vehicles also aligns with the UK government’s commitment to banning the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030. By investing in electric vehicle production, Ford aims to remain at the forefront of the automotive industry’s transition to cleaner and more sustainable mobility solutions.
The Future of the Ford Fiesta
Although the production of new Ford Fiestas is coming to an end, the car is expected to remain popular in the used car market for years to come. Alex Buttle, co-founder of used car marketplace Motorway, believes that demand for the Ford Fiesta will continue to be high, as dealers seek to stock their forecourts with this “timeless model.” The popularity of the Fiesta is evident through the increased average sold price of used models, which has seen a 14% rise in recent months.
While the end of production represents the closing of an era for the Ford Fiesta, it does not spell the end for this sought-after car. The Fiesta has earned its status as a modern-day classic and will be kept alive in the used car market, continuing to be a popular choice among buyers who value its affordability, reliability, and practicality.
Conclusion
The final production of the Ford Fiesta marks the end of an era for this iconic car. With its history of success and popularity, the Fiesta has become an integral part of the automotive landscape in the UK. As the automotive industry undergoes a significant transformation towards electrification, Ford’s decision to focus on electric vehicle production is a strategic move to adapt to changing consumer preferences and contribute to sustainability efforts.
While the production of new Ford Fiestas may cease, the car’s legacy and popularity will live on in the used car market. The Fiesta’s enduring appeal as a compact, efficient, and affordable option ensures that it will continue to be a sought-after choice for many car buyers in the years ahead.
<< photo by Prajwal Malve >>
The image is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual situation.
