After pre-announcing the death of its Australian manufacturing operations and consequently, the Falcon series in 2016 earlier this year, Ford's local arm is now winding down its Ford Performance Vehicles (FPV) division, which was born in 2003 to compete against Holden's rivaling HSV sub-brand.
The Blue Oval said that FPV will be shut down in late 2014. It what will undoubtedly be a small comfort to fans of the brand since the Falcon will be axed in 2016, Ford said it would re-introduce the Falcon XR8 to its lineup next year.
No details have been released, but it is reasonable to believe that the new Falcon XR8 will use the same 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine found in the FPV GT, in which it delivers 335kW (476hp or 483PS) at 5,750rpm and maximum torque of 570Nm (420 lb-ft) from 2,200-5,500rpm.
You can read FPV's official statement on the matter below:
[From FPV]
"As a loyal Ford Performance Vehicles (FPV) fan, we want to inform you directly that late 2014 will mark the end of a celebrated era as we retire the FPV brand.
The retirement of the FPV brand will make way for the return of the Falcon XR8 sedan to the Falcon line-up. We are excited about the return of the XR8 as we have received a large number of requests to bring it back.
We have a wonderful history going back 12 years as FPV, and of course many years before that in our performance relationship with Tickford. You have been a part of this journey, this history and we thank you for your loyalty and support in making the FPV models and engines celebrated successes.
We will stand behind you and your FPV, offering service, parts and technical support for many years to come.
We understand that this news may not be what you have wanted to hear. However, be assured that we have planned a series of actions during 2014 to ensure the final FPV models’ iconic status is appropriately celebrated. We look forward to sharing more details of those plans next year.
We thank you for your support of FPV."
Thanks to John L. for the tip!
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