Ford sales slide 28 percent in June

0 Comments | AFP, July, 2008

CHICAGO (AFP) — Ford Motor Co. said Tuesday its US sales tumbled 28.1 percent in June compared with a year ago with sport utility vehicle sales skidding over 50 percent.

The number two US automaker said weak consumer confidence had dented overall sales and the surge in fuel costs has accelerated a move to more fuel-efficient vehicles.

"Consumer fundamentals and consumer confidence deteriorated as the first half unfolded," said Jim Farley, Ford group vice president.

"The economy enters the second half of the year with a notable absence of momentum and a high degree of uncertainty."

He added, "Clearly, the rapid rise in gasoline prices, and the resulting shift toward fuel efficient vehicles, has been challenging, but it also provides an opportunity....