Ford's new "People Movers"

According to The Detroit News, Ford is planning to build a new class of "people movers," based on the Fairlane concept first seen at the 2005 Detroit auto show. These new "people movers" are set to replace its poorly performing minivans.

Also in the works is a Lincoln version of the vehicle - based on the same platform as the Ford Five Hundred sedan and the Ford Freestyle crossover utility vehicle. Both versions, known internally as the D471 and D472, respectively, will be assembled in Oakville, Ontario. The D471 and D472 will offer three rows of seating, but will not have the sliding side door associated with minivans.

Ford has already stopped production of the Mercury Monterey and is expected to end production of its last remaining minivan, the Ford Freestar, next spring.