Membership for Ford comes just ahead of E-World Conference in Auckland where Ford will participate and have its latest PHEVs on display
AUCKLAND, 6 May 2021 – Ford New Zealand has become a member of Drive Electric, a New Zealand non-profit organisation that has been working to make electric vehicle ownership in New Zealand mainstream.
Ford globally has chosen a path that is accelerating to a zero-emissions future by investing more than $22 billion to electrify many of its vehicles and iconic nameplates. Ford has committed to work to be carbon neutral companywide by 2050.
Globally, Ford has a strong line-up of EVs such as the Mustang Mach E and F150 Hybrid. In New Zealand the company has been encouraged by initial demand for the recently introduced Transit PHEV and is also looking forward to introducing the Escape Plug-In Hybrid this year as well as the all-electric E-Transit in 2022. The E-Transit is a full-size Transit Cargo with DC charging and a 350-kilometre range.
“As a volume brand we see our products and technology as a key enabler of de-carbonising the transport sector through effective and targeted renewal of New Zealand’s aging vehicle fleet,” said Simon Rutherford, Managing Director Ford New Zealand. “As the consumer appetite for EVs grows, capacity increases, infrastructure and accessibility improve, we aim to further expand our EV line-up as Ford has done in many markets around the world.”
“Joining Drive Electric helps us to contribute further to the industry-wide efforts and discussions to find a pragmatic, customer-focused and scalable pathway to the wider adoption of new EVs in New Zealand,” he added.
Drive Electric
Drive Electric is a New Zealand not-for-profit organisation committed to accelerating the uptake of electric vehicles in New Zealand and decarbonising transport.
Mark Gilbert, Chair of Drive Electric says, “We warmly welcome Ford to Drive Electric, joining a number of organisations committed to accelerating the uptake of e-mobility in New Zealand. Ford has already committed to sell only electric passenger vehicles in Europe by 2030, a demonstration of their global leadership on electrification. We are excited about seeing how Ford can contribute to New Zealand’s zero emissions transport future.”
About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan. The company designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of Ford trucks, utility vehicles, and cars – increasingly including electrified versions – and Lincoln luxury vehicles; provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company; and is pursuing leadership positions in electrification; mobility solutions, including self-driving services; and connected vehicle services. Ford employs approximately 186,000 people worldwide. For more information regarding Ford, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company, please visit corporate.ford.com
