Ford leader in ’12 Puerto Rico truck, minivan sales
In Detroit, Ford unveiled its “Atlas Concept,” the next generation of the F-150 trucks that will be available in 2014.
While news from the North America International Auto Show taking place this week comes down from Detroit in every direction, automakers in Puerto Rico are making announcements of their own about how they did among local consumers last year.
On Tuesday, Ford announced it had achieved first place in truck and minivan sales in Puerto Rico by the end of 2012, reporting a 25 percent increase in the minivan segment — which includes the Transit Connect work van — and a 15 percent increase in the F-150 and Super Duty truck segment.
Ford sold a total of 11,017 units last year, representing a 6.6 percent increase over 2011, locking down its second place position in the Puerto Rico auto sales market.
“The Transit Connect has been well received, especially in the commercial spectrum, since it was introduced in the market in 2009,” the company said in a statement issued Tuesday. “Last year, this minivan model sold 846 units, 167 more units than 2011, which represents a 25 percent increase. This positions it as the preferred minivan for commercial use and leader in its segment.”
By the end of this year, Ford will introduce three new Transit models, the Transit Connect Van and the Transit Connect Wagon.
In Detroit, Ford unveiled its “Atlas Concept,” the next generation of the F-150 trucks that will be available in 2014. The Ford Atlas Concept now features aerodynamic lines, a next-generation “EcoBoost” engine, and various smart technologies.
“This launch is of great importance for the automotive company since it’s not just another vehicle for Ford, but the best-selling one in the United States,” the company said. “More F-150s are sold per year than any passenger car.”
In Puerto Rico the F-150 and Super Duty truck series lead the market in their segments. Last year, 1,016 units were sold, which represents a 15 percent increase compared to the 880 units sold in 2011, Ford confirmed.
On Monday, Chrysler shared news of its own, saying 2012 was a “historic” year for the company in Puerto Rico, where it sold more than 9,000 units.
