Major car brand’s much-loved model that’s been on the market since 1998 to be discontinued next year – with focus on EVs

A MAJOR car brand has discontinued one of its most popular models, which has been on the market since 1998, to focus on EVs.

The company defied reports of a decline in demand for electric cars and remained firmly on course to scrap the car in the near future.

Manufacturers across the world have seen a dip in the number of customers looking to make the swap to electric this year.

Indeed, Tesla, the world's largest EV firm, recorded its first drop in sales since 2019, prompting CEO Elon Musk to announce sweeping job cuts.

In that context, major producers have granted several internal combustion models a longer lifespan to manage the transition more steadily.

Most recently, Mercedes delayed the end of the A-Class until 2026, while Renault, Jaguar Land Rover and VW have all paired back their ambitious EV production plans.

Ford, however, has said it remains committed to an EV-only lineup by 2030, with an interim target of all its European models being either electric or hybrid by 2026.

As part of that eco-friendly push, the American giant reaffirmed its decision to discontinue the legendary Focus hatchback.

The move was first announced in 2022, but Ford's head of Europe Martin Sander doubled down on the decision this month.

Asked whether the Focus could be extended beyond its current expiry date in light of the EV struggle, he remained firm.

Sander emphasised that the company doesn't have "any plans to extend Focus production" at its plant in Saarlouis, Germany.

He added: "In the long run, we are still deeply convinced that EVs will be the future and we will see a significant increase in volume.

"By the end of this year, we will have a full range of electric vehicles – both in the passenger vehicle sector but also in our commercial vehicle business line – and we are quite flexible to adapt to market demand. For the next couple of years, we have a broad choice.

"Basically, our customers have the power of choice to pick what they want."

As a result, the model will mark the end of a near three-decade run when the last one rolls off the assembly line in mid-2025.

That being said, it is not the end of the line for Ford's storied range of smaller models.

Bosses have suggested that hatchback EV models are on the way after the launch of a four-strong range of SUVs in the coming years.

It comes after Ford also took the decision to scrap the Fiesta, which was Britain's best-selling car for 12 consecutive years, in service of its electric future.