While sales of the new Ford Edge are off to a strong start, the launch of what Ford had called 2006’s most important product, has had a few glitches. First, Ford delayed the launch over some last-minute quality issues. Then there was the weather, heavy snow on the Plains states, and ice storms in Texas and other parts of the southwest, delayed shipments to some states.

According to Ford, about 10 percent of its dealers are still waiting for their first Edges, particularly those dealers in rural areas. However, Ford said that all of its dealers will receive their initial allotment of Edges by the end of this month. Since Ford is focusing on stocking high-volume Lincoln dealers in major metropolitan areas first, smaller dealers will have to wait longer for their MKXs.

Adding to the other issues, Ford has seen a higher than expected demand for premium Edge models with 18-inch rims, which has kept premium models in short supply and forced Ford to offer cash on the entry-level model. Now a rail strike in Canada, is slowing Edge shipments. While high sales of higher-profit, premium models is a good thing, without bad luck, Ford would have no luck at all.

## Source: The Detroit News ##

Posted in: Ford, Lincoln, Crossovers, News, Industry
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