The Economy

Ford U.S. Sales up 14%; Focus Continues to Surge

March 1, 2012

'Sales momentum built as February unfolded, with higher fuel prices driving consumer demand for more fuel-efficient vehicles in the second half of the month,' said Ford's Ken Czubay.

Josh Cable

Ford Motor Co. reported a 14% year-over-year increase in February U.S. sales, with the Ford Focus continuing its monster year. Ford sold 23,350 Focus compact sedans in February, a 115% year-over-year increase. Through February, sales of the Focus are up nearly 90% over the same period in 2011. Overall, Ford sold 179,119 vehicles in the United States. "Sales momentum built as February unfolded, with higher fuel prices driving consumer demand for more fuel-efficient vehicles in the second half of the month," said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. marketing, sales and service. The Focus contributed 40% to Ford's total U.S. sales growth in February, more than any other vehicle in the automaker's lineup. Other highlights included the Escape SUV, which had its best February in history with sales of 18,666 units. Sales of Ford's bread-and-butter F-Series pickup trucks rose 26% to 47,273 units.

About the Author

Josh Cable | Former Senior Editor

Former Senior Editor Josh Cable covered innovation issues -- including trends and best practices in R&D, process improvement and product development. He also reported on the best practices of the most successful companies and executives in the world of transportation manufacturing, which encompasses the aerospace, automotive, rail and shipbuilding sectors.

Josh also led the IndustryWeek Manufacturing Hall of Fame, IW’s annual tribute to the most influential executives and thought leaders in U.S. manufacturing history.

Before joining IndustryWeek, Josh was the editor-in-chief of Penton Media’s Government Product News and Government Procurement. He also was an award-winning beat reporter for several small newspapers in Northeast Ohio.

Josh received his BFA in creative writing from Bowling Green University, and continued his professional development through course-work at Ohio University and Cuyahoga Community College.

A lifelong resident of the Buckeye State, Josh currently lives in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland. When the weather cooperates, you’ll find him riding his bike to work, exercising his green thumb in the backyard or playing ultimate Frisbee.