Core Insights - Ford Motor is implementing special financing options for consumers with subprime credit ratings to boost F-150 pickup truck sales before the end of Q3 [1][2] - The initiative aims to make vehicles more affordable and reduce inventory levels, despite the higher risk of default associated with lower credit scores [2][3] Financing Details - Ford is offering lower interest rates to consumers with FICO scores below 620, which are typically reserved for those with better credit [2][4] - The average new auto loan rate was approximately 9% as of July, with subprime rates ranging from 18% to 20% [5] - Ford Credit has reported that only 3% to 4% of its financing has been extended to higher-risk consumers since 2024, with an average FICO score of 748 [6] Market Context - Sales of Ford F-Series trucks, including the F-150, increased by 12.7% year-to-date entering September, but saw a decline of 3.4% in August compared to the previous year [7] - The pricing for the 2025 F-150 varies from approximately $39,000 to over $100,000, reflecting ongoing concerns about vehicle affordability in the current high-interest-rate environment [7] - Other automakers, such as Stellantis and General Motors, are also offering competitive financing options to attract buyers [8][9]