The shortages of computer chips and other supply disruptions slowed the production of trucks and SUVs at Ford.
The company sold almost two million cars and light trucks in the US last year.
Ford's decline was in line with the rest of the industry. According to a market research firm, the industry sold more than 13 million new vehicles in the last two years, but less than in the previous year. Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and Stellantis all reported decreases in sales. GM's new-vehicle sales increased 2.5% to 2.3 million vehicles.
A shortage of the tiny brains used in electronic devices that control a vehicle's engine, transmission, display screen and other major components has been a problem for the last two years. There was a shortage of chips in 2022, but other supply problems were caused by the Covid-19 outbreak.
Although the F-Series remained the top-selling vehicle line in the U.S. market, Ford's supply issues limited the number of pickup trucks it was able to produce.
The introduction of the F-150 Lightning was a bright spot for Ford. As it ramps up production of battery packs for the vehicle, it sold less than expected.
Ford sold over 6,000 electric delivery vans. The sales of the electric S.U.V increased by 45%.
Electric vehicle sales are expected to drive growth this year. Two battery plants are being built in Kentucky and a third is being built in Tennessee.
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