Next RS delayed as full hybrid drive sought

[HSE2]

https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/n...m-breakthrough

[4Vman]

Hmmm. and looking for an auto box...

[flappist]

DCT would be the go..

[WASP]

There would be a fairly high amount of expectation for Ford to deliver an RS that raises the bar once again. On the surface, I would have thought a hybrid or full EV would represent a great opportunity to do this from a performance perspective. That being said, what are RS buyers really looking for? Do they even care about the car's environmental credentials? Does the idea of Hybrid electric set their world on fire or is that sen as a solution more suited to mainstream models?

What are other major players doing in the hot hatch segment?

[4Vman]

There would be a fairly high amount of expectation for Ford to deliver an RS that raises the bar once again. On the surface, I would have thought a hybrid or full EV would represent a great opportunity to do this from a performance perspective. That being said, what are RS buyers really looking for? Do they even care about the car's environmental credentials? Does the idea of Hybrid electric set their world on fire or is that sen as a solution more suited to mainstream models?

What are other major players doing in the hot hatch segment?

I don't think the market is ready for a full EV RS yet.

EV is still seen as a solution to a problem most people aren't overly engaged in yet.

A HV RS provides a perfect transition option that ticks lots of boxes.

[andrewforbes]

With rising stock of Tesla, I'd say a fully ev isn't out of the question and maybe going hybrid is a way to please everyone. But despite what people want Ford have to move into this area asap or get left behind. I think the rs focus is perfect for this, small compact and could deliver performance which far out does any other in the segment. Toyota have done well with Prius but I really feel Ford could and should take it to another level, a high performance full ev, with council and government assisting in the roll out of infrastructure for these vehicles it'd be a game changer. They need to provide a vehicle that is capable of recharging battery in normal driving and there are already examples of this type on the road. If I remember correctly people do an average of 30 miles a day (maybe not here) so you don't really need a vehicle that can do 600 as one that can mange 300miles a day is perfectly suitable. I feel it's sometimes the range that turns people away and makes them choose a petrol or diesel vehicle as range in some is 600+ km others can do quite a bit more.