New Fiesta Helps Ford Increase Market Share

The new Fiesta is one of the most attractive models in the company's product lineup when it comes to European cars. At least this is what Ford claims, pointing to its February 2009 sales figures. Ford of Europe sold a total of 91,100 vehicles in its Euro 19 markets in February, the manufacturer announced today, including 27,900 new Fiestas. This makes this particular model the best-selling Ford in this month and the second best-selling car in the whole industry.

Since January 2009, Ford delivered 56,200 new Fiestas to consumers across Europe, with figures reaching 117,000 units since August 2008 when Ford officially launched the car.

"We're excited, but not surprised, to see the new Fiesta doing so well in the market place given the current economic conditions," said Ingvar Sviggum, vice-president marketing, sales and service, Ford of Europe.

Ford's sales in Euro 19 were decreased by 14.2 percent in February compared to the same month of 2008. The company's best-sellers are the new Fiesta (27,900 units), the Focus (20,800 units) and the Transit (7,100 units).

“There are a number of bright spots for us this month, particularly Germany where Ford sales are up by 21,000 vehicles, or 43.7 percent, versus last February, thanks in no small part to the scrappage scheme which is proving extremely popular and generating a lot of additional showroom traffic,” Sviggum said. “However the underlying trend we face is still one of an overall sales decline across the industry as a whole. We will continue to do all that it takes to stay competitive and protect the flow of our exciting new products.”

Overall, the American automaker sold a total of 107,800 vehicles in February 2009 in all its 51 European markets, down 18.5 percent compared to the same month of the last year.