The deal between Fiat and Chrysler could mean that Ford could eventually bring its small Ka to the US.
The Ford Ka and Fiat 500 are built on the same platform that as developed by Fiat. Currently there are plans for Fiat to build the 500 at one of Chrysler's North American plants, when the vehicle eventually goes on sale here. Chrysler also wants a small car that would share the same underpinnings as the 500 and Ka. Since US car buyers historically like larger cars, the only way to make a profit would be to some how manage to sell more of them and bringing the Ford Ka here could help achieve that goal. By building three cars all built on the same platform in the US, costs could be more evenly spread out. This would provide more fuel for the business case to bring the little Ka here since the vehicle could actually be profitable.
There is no word yet on if Ford does indeed plan on bringing the Ka here. If the Ka did come here, it would be one of the smallest vehicles on the road, since its only marginally bigger than the Smart ForTwo.
Full Story: Detroit Free Press
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Comments (9)
I find it very dumb that Ford has waited and waited while Honda & Toyota brought small vehicles to the US during these financial crisis' and everyone remembers the gas surges from last year. I continually hear Ford's plans talk about profitability - and if people are buying the car wouldn't they make some money off it? Perhaps I just don't get it - or perhaps Ford should have pulled the trigger long ago.
Posted by Ryan A. | May 11, 2009 6:49 PM
Posted on May 11, 2009 18:49
Would look awesome with a fart pipe on it.
Posted by Big2 | May 11, 2009 11:48 PM
Posted on May 11, 2009 23:48
Well you also have to realize that most of the world that's not in America is use to the idea of a "small" car. The things that we consider small or larger than most small Euro cars.
While the 500 might sell okay here, it's not going to be a Fit or Cooper. Size does play a factor in many peoples decision, even if it's not warranted...
Now if I could only get Renault to bring over the Clio Sport...
Posted by Brian | May 12, 2009 2:10 AM
Posted on May 12, 2009 02:10
Yeah, this is just what we need Ford.
Hahahaha!
Posted by patman08 | May 12, 2009 7:33 AM
Posted on May 12, 2009 07:33
Isn't this basically the Fiesta they are already planning to bring in a year or so? And if not, wouldn't it basically be direct competition of it? Seems like they are very similar.
Posted by fwaits | May 12, 2009 9:02 AM
Posted on May 12, 2009 09:02
This is a nice looking car, but yeah, its pretty much a Fiesta and that's already on its way here.
Posted by gm0n3y | May 12, 2009 12:50 PM
Posted on May 12, 2009 12:50
nice car my ass. wtf are you looking at?
Posted by lol | May 12, 2009 2:14 PM
Posted on May 12, 2009 14:14
America doesn't need the Ford Ka. It would be a waste on Ford's part to attempt to bring it over here. There is little to no market here for these types of cars. The Smart Car is a prime example of that. While The Smart Car maybe selling well in parts of Europe, its sales have tanked so far here in America. What may sell well in Europe doesn't always mean it will sell well in America and vice versa.
Posted by SteelCity1981 | May 12, 2009 9:40 PM
Posted on May 12, 2009 21:40
The Ka in not a Fiesta, it has similar styling, but it is MUCH smaller. I want this car. Please bring it, Ford. The Smart is ugly, underpowered and has a miserable suspension, but I still see a few in Cleveland.
Posted by Mark Kufahl | May 19, 2009 10:21 AM
Posted on May 19, 2009 10:21