I know about Shelby`s but I did not know that there was going to be an `06 Shelby Mustang.The only current Shelby`s I knew of were the Jay Mays concept car and the Ealanors that are being retagged as Shelby`s.

 

The seller is associated with the manufacturer, but as an example when I tell people I work for Ford, they inevitably say "oh really, which one?". Then I have to explain that I work for Ford Motor Company. Many, many people completely associate cars with the manufacturers. You don't associate other products you buy somewhere with the actual maker of that product. I agree that Ford needs to do something about dealers, but I see a day when Ford doesn't really need dealers. They would have delivery lots or stations where a car is delivered and preped after being ordered online and then the customer picks it up there. I know, test drives would have to be worked out, but if these dealers don't start providing a lot better customer service they might be left out in the dark. The new Mercury hybrid is being sold online only, so the day is not far off.

 

screwbuilder,

I understand what you’re saying that most people don’t associate a product with where they bought it. However the dealers have the big Ford sign that “suggest” they are in some way a part of Ford Motor Company.

I don’t associated Craftsmen tools with Sears but then again Sears don’t have a big sign naming their stores Craftsmen or otherwise many people would associate them as part of Craftsmen.

It would be interesting if what you’re saying will ever happen as per not going to a dealer to actually purchase the vehicle. I think a dealer, in some form, will always have to play a part. I can’t really picture going to some lot and picking up a vehicle. They still have to be serviced, still need somewhere to go to provide warranty repairs and that will still link that repair facility to Ford Motor Company.

I think Ford just needs to own up and treat dealers for what they really are which is a franchise owned by private investors but who should have to follow Ford guide lines like any other franchise business does.

I think if Ford does that and not worry about short term profits, of which they do now, (make a buck now and screw customer service) then they can begin trying to build a bigger base. Ford has asked people to “Look Again” and some are but they are not just looking at quality and workmanship but the relationship “after” the purchase and that is still lacking, as in Rob’s case in where the person was uninformed or lied, neither worth “looking at again”.

What will the next Ford slogan be?

”Come on, really, we mean it this time…”

 

The problem is that Ford licenses these dealerships and regulates their conduct. If they don't meet whatever standard Ford decides to set, Ford can, but chooses not to, do something about it. They're gaining influence on controlling bad dealer behaviour through the blue oval program, but it's just not enough yet.

There are actually federal laws against an automobile manufacturer selling directly to the public in America. It's not that way in most parts of the world though. It's not fair! I live not too far away from two different Ford plants. I'd love to drive up there and pick up a car right off the assembly line.

Chevy gives you the option when you order a Corvette to drive to the factory and take it right off the assembly line (after you buy it at a licensed dealer). It's too bad they don't have a sales office right there! Imagine the bargain lot!

-Fatz

p.s. For what it's worth, I believe you can order a Shelby from www.hawkford.com without any problems. They're a very influential and awesome dealer in Chicago.

 

There are stores taking deposits, but the order bank is not open yet, and nobody knows what their allocations will be.

 

http://forums.bradbarnett.net/index.php?showtopic=29726

The above link should answer some of your questions about allocation.