A FORD decision-maker has hinted that a classic car feature is reaching the end of its lifespan – claiming it’s something drivers are no longer interested in.
Ford’s Vice Chair John Lawler recently declared that consumer interest in traditional combustion engines is waning.
GettyThe era of combustion engines defining vehicles may be nearing its end as consumer interest shifts to design, safety, and tech features over horsepower and torque[/caption] GettyFord Vice Chair John Lawler claims drivers no longer prioritize traditional powertrains, marking a significant shift in how vehicles are valued[/caption] AFPFord faces criticism as it balances preserving iconic features like the Mustang’s V8 engine against increasing regulations and the rise of electric vehicles[/caption]And while the industry’s gradual transition into electric power might be considered the reason for many, Lawler believes people simply don’t care as much as they once did about what powers a vehicle.
During a recent Bernstein conference, Lawler argued that customer interest in conventional engines is reaching the end of the road.
He said: “I don’t think that consumers really think about powertrains the way they did 30 years ago.
“Where [combustion engines] defined what a vehicle was, the horsepower, the displacement, the torque and everything about the vehicle, I think a lot of that is gone.”
Lawler’s opinion seems to stem from the fact that in 2025, most buyers seemingly have other priorities when shopping for a new car – such as design, infotainment, or safety.
Furthermore, the general public’s waning interest in internal combustion engines can also be traced back to increasingly stringent emissions regulations – forcing most brands to downsize.
This is compared to the 1990s, which saw a wider variety of interesting cars – something referenced when making his point.
This is especially apparent in Europe, where all new cars sold from 2035 onward must be ICE-free.
Many users on social media were aghast at the thought, with one commenter writing: “New cars are considered appliances, because they are.”
Another wrote: “Shows how out of touch the vice chairman of Ford is.
“No wonder they can’t come out with a winning formula anymore since ditching all their money making vehicles.”
And a third cynically said: “The entire auto industry has worked to turn vehicles into ‘transportation appliances’ and most buyers now treat them as such.”
In a report by Motor1, they referenced the four-cylinder AMG C63 as a prime example of a combustion engine that had been toned down to the point where its turned drivers off.
While its hybrid setup may make the sedan faster and more powerful on paper, many gearheads still long for the old V8.
Meanwhile, Ford is persevering with the eight-cylinder in the Mustang, but with its 5.0-liter engine, it’s a tough sell in Europe.
THE RISE OF THE SUV
Another important point to consider is car-buying trends and what’s considered popular.
Currently, SUVs are by-far the most popular type of vehicle, with their buyers more likely to care about other interior and technical features, rather than what’s under the hood.
Car enthusiasts have always been a minority and their niche is seemingly shrinking – with fewer cars to get excited about.
With electrification on the horizon, the worst may be yet to come.
There are of course reasons to stay positive, with Motor1 holding up sporty hybrids – such as the new Honda Prelude – as something to be positive about that could keep the combustion engine alive and well for a little while longer.
Synthetic fuels could also gain traction – breathing new life into new and existing ICE engines – while Toyota‘s hydrogen ICE technology could be the future.
What happens if you put the wrong fuel in your tank?
Dwanye Saunders, the owner of Genuine Automotive & Diesel in Austin, Texas, said the common mix up isn't as dire as people think.
He told The U.S. Sun in an exclusive interview there are things drivers should look out for at the pumps to avoid putting the wrong fuel in your tank, and what to do if it happens.
The first thing he noted is that most gas stations make it very difficult to fill a gas-powered car with diesel. At the pumps, size does matter.
“The nozzle for the diesel pump is usually much bigger than a gasoline pump,” he said.
“So, it’s pretty hard to put diesel in a gas tank, it’s actually easier to accidentally put gasoline in a diesel engine.”
If the wrong fuel type is used, drivers will know right away, as the engine will run incredibly rough before shutting off. When that happens, it’s important to not try and start the vehicle again, as it pushes the fuel further into the system. Forcing the wrong fuel through an ill-equipped engine can cost thousands in repairs, or even merit an engine replacement.
Instead, it’s best to have your vehicle towed to a trusted mechanic, where they’ll begin repairs.
“A good mechanic would drain the fuel tank and flush the lines with fresh gasoline, maybe run some fuel system cleaner through it and it’s usually not detrimental,” said Saunders.
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