Ford’s redesigned three-row Expedition SUV is driving impressive sales growth for the automaker. In August, Ford sold 8,724 Expeditions, a 53.7% increase from the same month last year, marking the model’s strongest sales in 21 years. Year-to-date, the company has sold 61,022 Expeditions, a 13.1% rise compared with the same period in 2024.
The Expedition’s success is outpacing Ford’s overall sales, which were up 3.9% in August compared to last year. While the Expedition only represented about 5% of the company’s total sales for the month, Ford has historically relied on large trucks and SUVs as its primary profit drivers. The SUV’s continued popularity highlights consumer demand for spacious, gas-powered vehicles, even as the electric vehicle (EV) segment gains momentum.
Ford is also experiencing a surge in EV sales, largely driven by buyers rushing to take advantage of a federal tax credit before it expires at the end of the month. In August, EV sales were up 19.3% year-over-year. Analysts anticipate a slowdown in EV sales once the incentives end. Ford’s crosstown rival, General Motors, also reported record EV sales for the month.
Despite the growing interest in EVs, many families remain drawn to larger vehicles like the Expedition. The SUV features a traditional internal combustion engine and a lineup that starts at around $74,000, with premium trims such as Platinum, Tremor, and King Ranch appealing to buyers seeking high-end features.
Ford unveiled the latest Expedition model in October and began shipping vehicles about five months ago. The SUV is assembled at the Kentucky Truck Plant, underscoring Ford’s continued investment in traditional large vehicles. CEO Jim Farley has noted that the company’s approach is “out of sync, in a good way” with competitors focused heavily on all-electric models, and Ford has chosen to prioritize hybrid development over a three-row electric SUV, canceling plans for the latter last year.
The Expedition faces competition from GM’s Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, and GMC Yukon, as well as newer entrants such as the Jeep Wagoneer from Stellantis and three-row crossovers from Kia and Hyundai. The SUV’s robust sales performance demonstrates that despite the push toward electrification, there remains strong consumer demand for large, versatile, and premium gasoline-powered vehicles, helping Ford maintain its foothold in a highly competitive segment.
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