“Probably what I’ve brought to the table most is just making sure modern day conveniences are played out and that the small details of our products aren’t overlooked. For example, one of the original features in our Ford Expedition model was an adjustable
Nancy Elrod of Geweke Ford in Yuba City
of our products aren’t overlooked,” said Elrod. “For example, one of the original features in our Ford Expedition model was an adjustable second row which helped fit car seats properly and made it easier to access the third row. As a mom, that was a big deal especially if you wanted to utilize that third row.”
In addition to being the first female, Elrod said she was the youngest member to come onto the board and has helped encourage the adoption of new modern forms of advertising such as working with influencers and establishing a social media presence.
“It’s really about thinking outside the box,” said Elrod. “One of the reasons I love being in this industry is just being able to build relationships with others and to be able to see people grow both within my business as well as the people I’ve gotten to know in and through the Ford corporation.”
According to Elrod, one of the corporation’s biggest initiatives this year will be to grow its Hispanic share and make Ford products more accessible. With the inventory and financial issues brought on by the recent pandemic, Elrod said Ford is shifting its focus on producing things that people can afford and want to buy.
“We should be seeing more Broncos soon,” said Elrod. “The Maverick, which is Ford’s newest truck, all the accessories for it have the ability to be 3D printed so that you’re not necessarily having to buy them at the dealership. A lot of people are able to work on them themselves or have them done by a third party and really be able to customize it to their life.”
In addition to this, Elrod mentioned the pending demand for more hybrid and electric vehicles and said she is interested to see where the company will go with those technologies in the coming years.