Consumer demand for more fuel-efficient and cleaner vehicles continues to grow. In a 2005 New Vehicle Customer Survey, fuel economy was chosen as the feature most influencing drivers' next vehicle purchase decision and ranked higher than pricing incentives and advanced safety features. Sixty-six percent of respondents ranked fuel economy as extremely or very influential in their next vehicle purchase decision. This demand for fuel efficiency, largely driven by consumers' growing concern over climate change, energy security, and rising and volatile fuel prices, is reflected in shifts in vehicles purchased. This shift in demand is visible in the chart of sales by vehicle segment below.
Ford is taking a multi-pronged approach to meeting this demand. First, we have committed to improving the overall fuel economy of our entire fleet. We are also introducing new products that offer improved fuel efficiency without compromising style or performance. And, we are continuing to develop and introduce advanced technologies that improve fuel efficiency, reduce emissions and reduce dependence on foreign oil.
