In a significant shift from its previous plans for an all-electric lineup in Europe, Ford Motor is now considering the inclusion of gas-powered vehicles and hybrids in the region beyond 2030, the Detroit automaker revealed on Thursday. This change comes as the company acknowledges the slower adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in Europe and the need to offer customers alternative options.

Ford had initially outlined its ambitious vision for an all-electric lineup in Europe by the end of this decade. However, with EV adoption rates lagging behind expectations, the automaker has decided to reevaluate its strategy. In a statement to Reuters, Ford stated, "As EV adoption in Europe has slowed, we believe we need to offer our customers ICE (internal combustion engine) and hybrid vehicle options beyond 2030."

Hybrid vehicles, which blend traditional internal combustion engines with electric power, have witnessed a significant surge in demand over the past year. This surge has prompted automakers, including Ford, to adjust their plans to focus solely on electric vehicles. The increased popularity of hybrids reflects consumers' preferences for vehicles that provide a balance between traditional and electric power sources.

One of the key factors contributing to the altered strategy is the limited charging infrastructure in Europe. The lack of an extensive charging network has deterred some potential buyers from opting for EVs. Recognizing this challenge, Ford acknowledges the importance of offering alternative solutions to cater to a broader range of customer needs.

Ford remains committed to closely monitoring the situation and adapting its plans as necessary. The automaker joins the global trend among automotive manufacturers to eventually transition their gasoline-powered vehicle lineups to exclusively electric power. The pressure to reduce vehicle emissions has driven automakers to accelerate their efforts in transitioning to greener technologies.

By retaining gas-powered vehicles and hybrids alongside electric vehicles, Ford aims to strike a balance between customer demand, infrastructure limitations, and the need to reduce emissions. The precise details of Ford's extended product lineup in Europe beyond 2030 are yet to be announced.