Great Developments for Ford but Not for Rivian and Lucid

Ford is seeing “great developments” tied to the convergence of hybrid supply and demand, while fully EV-focused rivals face more difficult conditions, according to industry commentary referenced in the article. The piece recalls how automakers—including Ford—previously bet that U.S. buyers would largely skip hybrids as the market shifted from gasoline to full electric vehicles, a strategy that contributed to billions in charges and delays. Cox Automotive’s Stephanie Valdez Streaty said sustained growth in hybrids is being driven by improved availability and stronger consumer pull from fuel savings, without some of the range and charging trade-offs that deter buyers. AlixPartners estimates gasoline vehicles could fall to 50% of the U.S. market by end of 2030, while hybrid EVs rise 16 points to 34%. Ford aims to offer hybrid choices across nearly its lineup by 2030 and target about half of global sales through hybrids. The article says Ford’s hybrid profitability has improved, including claims tied to F-150 hybrid margins versus gasoline versions.