Why was the Ford B-MAX discontinued?
The Ford B-MAX, a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), was once a popular choice for drivers seeking a practical and versatile car. However, despite its innovative design and features, Ford decided to discontinue the B-MAX in 2017. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this decision and what it means for the automotive market.
Declining Popularity of MPVs
One of the primary reasons for the discontinuation of the Ford B-MAX was the declining popularity of MPVs in favor of SUVs and crossovers. Over the past decade, consumer preferences have shifted significantly, with more drivers opting for the higher driving position, rugged aesthetics, and perceived safety of SUVs. This trend left compact MPVs like the B-MAX struggling to maintain their market share.
Production Costs and Profitability
Another factor that contributed to the B-MAX’s demise was its production costs. The B-MAX was manufactured at Ford’s Craiova plant in Romania, which also produced other models. As sales of the B-MAX declined, it became less cost-effective for Ford to continue its production. Automakers often prioritize models that offer higher profitability, and the B-MAX no longer fit into Ford’s strategic goals.
Competition in the Segment
The compact MPV segment was highly competitive, with several other manufacturers offering similar vehicles. Models like the Opel Meriva and Citroën C3 Picasso provided stiff competition, making it difficult for the B-MAX to stand out. Despite its unique features, such as the absence of a B-pillar for easier access, the B-MAX struggled to maintain a competitive edge.
Focus on SUVs and Electrification
Ford’s decision to discontinue the B-MAX was also part of a broader strategy to focus on SUVs and electrification. The company has been investing heavily in developing electric and hybrid vehicles, as well as expanding its SUV lineup to meet consumer demand. By reallocating resources from the B-MAX to these growing segments, Ford aimed to position itself better for the future of the automotive industry.
What This Means for Drivers
For drivers who owned or were considering the Ford B-MAX, its discontinuation may have been disappointing. However, the shift in Ford’s strategy reflects the evolving preferences of the automotive market. Drivers now have access to a wider range of SUVs and crossovers, as well as an increasing number of electric and hybrid options.
While the B-MAX is no longer in production, its legacy lives on as a reminder of the innovative designs that once defined the compact MPV segment. For those who still own a B-MAX, it remains a practical and reliable vehicle, even as the automotive landscape continues to change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, B-Max or C-Max?
Both cars are solidly built and will last the test of time. Each B-Max model comes with safety kit like traction control and stability control as standard, plus plenty of air bags. The C-Max is just as secure, featuring some handy automatic braking tech, active park assist, and the pre-collision assist system.
What does B-Max mean?
Bmax refers to the maximum observed binding in a chemical experiment, typically represented as 100% binding in the analysis. AI generated definition based on: Methods in Enzymology, 2022.
What years did Ford have bad transmissions?
Related Story. The Ford PowerShift transmission in question is found in 2011–2016 Fiesta and 2012–2016 Focus cars.
Are Ford B-Max cars reliable?
Only 17% of B-Maxes had faults, and while these spanned from both minor and more serious issues, including the Quickclear screen and the steering system, all were fixed under warranty. Ford as a brand came 9th out of 32 manufacturers, which is a very good result considering the huge number of cars that it sells.
What are common faults on a Ford B-Max?
What are the most common problems?
- Automatic transmission.
- Diesel particle filter (DFP)
- Problems with the steering.
- Problem with a discharged battery.
- Electrical problems.
- Defective rear window and broken mirrors.
What does C-Max stand for?
Peak Concentration. A pharmacokinetic measure used to determine drug dosing. Cmax is the highest concentration of a drug in the blood, cerebrospinal fluid, or target organ after a dose is given.
Why did they stop making Ford B-Max?
In September 2017, production of B-Max ended, due to dwindling demand for the model, as well as a general decline in sales of mini MPVs.
What replaced the Model B Ford?
Priced at $2,000 (equivalent to $69,000 today), the Model B was a high-end car. Produced for three years, sales were predictably slower than the Model C at one-third of the price. The Model B was replaced by the derivative Model K in 1906.
What car has replaced the Ford B-Max?
With the appetite for MPVs declining, Ford pulled the B-MAX in 2017 and didn't produce a direct replacement. However, Ford sees the compact EcoSport SUV as an indirect replacement to the B-MAX, so it's certainly not quite as practical.
Why did they stop making Ford B-MAX?
In September 2017, production of B-Max ended, due to dwindling demand for the model, as well as a general decline in sales of mini MPVs.
