Ford’s Global CEO Affrms Commitment to V8 Engines, Unveils Long-Term Vision

By Jeff Gibbs

In a resounding declaration of dedication to the revered V8 engine, Ford’s Global CEO, Jim Farley, asserts the company’s unwavering commitment to producing eight-cylinder powerhouses for the foreseeable future. While several automotive brands are pivoting away from traditional

V8 engines to comply with stringent emissions regulations, Ford, under Farley’s leadership, stands frm in its resolve to continue crafting these iconic powerplants.

Speaking at the launch event for Ford Performance’s racing season in Charlotte, North Carolina, Farley expressed his determination for Ford to be a torchbearer for

V8 enthusiasts globally.

“Mustang is going to celebrate its 60th anniversary coming up here. A lot of our competitors have left.

They’ve come and gone. We never did that. We’ve always been there with Mustang,” said Farley. Emphasizing the brand’s enduring commitment, he added, “If we’re the only one on the planet making a V8 affordable sports car for everyone in the world, so be it.”

Farley’s remarks underscore Ford’s strategic vision, citing the Mustang’s legacy and its evolution with models like the EcoBoost and Dark Horse. Despite the industry’s shift towards electrifcation, Farley remains bullish on the V8, particularly in the context of racing success, as evidenced by Ford Performance’s dominance propelled by V8 engines.

Notably, Farley highlighted the Mach-E, controversially bearing the Mustang name, as a key element in sustaining the production of internal combustion engines (ICE) for an extended period. He stated, “Mach-E lets us sell ICE vehicles for a long time to come.”

Australia, a stronghold for V8 enthusiasts, is contributing signifcantly to the V8’s longevity, evident in the robust sales of V8 Mustangs in 2023 compared to their four-cylinder counterparts. With Farley’s unwavering stance, the future of Ford’s V8 engines seems promising, with the company positioned as a standard-bearer for the timeless appeal of these legendary powerplants.