Why Ford Australia isn't going all-electric

Despite the introduction of the all-electric Mustang Mach-E Ford Australia isn’t giving up on ICE models

Ford Australia is keeping its options open for both petrol and diesel power as well as electric models, as it draws from the blue ovals range from around the world to give local buyers more choice.

Despite introducing a number of electric vehicles in recent months, led by the E-Transit and more recently the Mustang Mach-E, Ford Australia president, Andrew Birkic, said the blue oval brand remains committed to picking whatever models will work best for local buyers. This means either petrol-powered options like the Bronco and Maverick or more EVs like the new Explorer could be on the agenda in the near-future.

The company’s other recent addition demonstrates that, with the F-150 recently hitting showrooms, with the new-generation Mustang coupe and convertible coming in early 2024.

“We are cherry picking the best of what Ford has to offer from both a combustion and EV point-of-view,” Birkic told Torquecafe.

ROAD TEST: 2023 Ford Bronco review

The Ford Bronco is one much-discussed model for the local division

However, Ford Australia is more restricted with what it can offer these days, with the loss of local manufacturing and the company’s US focus on pickups and SUVs and its European operations shift towards EVs.

“The answer is, yes, our global counterparts will have a significant say [on what we offer] because of the sheer capacity of the global supply chain,” Birkic said. “If you think about what we’re doing in the United States, with [EV manufacturing hub] Blue Oval City, they’re massive investments and the Australian market is only so big, and we’re also right-hand drive.

“We have a pretty strong influence. We certainly put our hands up and we’re quite lucky we’re a strong global company.”

ROAD TEST: 2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E review

The all-electric Ford Explorer is another potential option to join the local range in the future

So while right-hand drive is an obstacle for the local operation, it also means models like the new all-electric Explorer SUV and the Ranger-based Bronco off-roader remain on Ford Australia’s radar to join the local line-up in the future.

The success of the F-150 conversion program will likely have a major impact on whether Ford Australia gets approval for an expanded line-up, potential with the high-performance Raptor and electric Lightning variants, and more models in the future – such as the Bronco.

What models would you like Ford Australia to offer in the future? Let us know in the comments.