Ford To Exit Minivan Segment
May Move to Large Crossovers

SEE ALSO: Ford Fairlane Concept Story

Washington DC September 1, 2006; The AIADA newsletter reported that Ford is officially getting out of the minivan business.

A spokeswoman for the automaker, Sara Tatchio, confirmed yesterday that production of the Mercury Monterey ended this week, and the Ford Freestar would continue through the 2007 model year.

However, other sources have confirmed that production of the Freestar will end next spring, reports The Detroit News.

In place of the Monterey and Freestar, Ford is developing a new generation "people-mover" based on the Ford Fairlane concept unveiled at the 2005 Detroit Auto Show.

"They are rethinking the minivan," said Erich Merkle, a brand analyst with IRN Inc. in Grand Rapids. "It makes sense. The minivan segment has become far too competitive. Putting those resources into a full-size crossover is a more prudent choice for Ford."