It is speculated that the first details regarding Lincoln’s plan to release hybrid versions of its U.S. models may be presented as soon as Oct. 3rd.
The theories may prove to be true, as this is the date when Ford’s Chief Executive Officer Jim Hackett is planned to update the investors on the company’s strategy.
However, company officials are also considering the possibility of releasing at least one all-electric Lincoln model. This new approach may be essential to the carmaker’s market share in China, which will be dependent on increasing the sales percentage of EVs.
Another source has stated that the upcoming Lincoln hybrids are only part of a larger Ford program, meant to offer more than 18 new electric and hybrid models in the next five years. The brand apparently aims to follow the same direction European brands such as Daimler AG, BMW, and Jaguar Land Rover have started on.
Ford’s approach is in line with a fair number of other global luxury brands have devised new strategies, in order to respond not only to the competitive pressure generated by Tesla Inc. but also to the Chinese government’s proposals to increase the number of electronic vehicles in what is the World’s largest auto market.
According to various sources, the plan to offer a portfolio of Lincoln hybrid models has been discussed since before Hackett became CEO, in May.
The renowned company has stated in January 2016 that $4.5 billion would be spent towards electrifying a portion of its U.S fleet. This includes hybrid versions of over 13 models, including Mustang and F-150. Details regarding new or redesigned models were not previously disclosed.
Sources also said that, while Lincoln will release redesigned versions of its current models, in addition to a completely new one, the brand is also preparing to roll out plug-in hybrid versions of those vehicles, starting with the redesigned MKC crossover and the new Aviator crossover, in 2019. It is also said that the following year will bring an MKZ sedan, followed by the Continental sedan and MKX crossover in 2022, including plug-in hybrid versions.
