Thunderbird nameplate back into the company's future-product vault after this model year, the company confirmed today with employees.

Production of the current generation vehicle will end in July at the company's Wixom Assembly Plant in Wixom, Mich. Since the launch of the roadster as a 2002 model, more than 55,000 Thunderbirds have been sold.

"We promised all along that this Thunderbird would have a limited production run, and we're being true to our word," explains Steve Lyons, Ford Division president. "Thunderbird was a terrific image builder for the Ford brand showroom at a time when we needed it. Now, we're in the midst of a major product onslaught, including more news on the Mustang at this month's New York Auto Show."

A Storied History

Ford Thunderbird first went on sale Oct. 22, 1954, marking the birth of a new legend that would grow with each generation. During five decades, Thunderbird went through several design changes with coupes, sedans, convertibles, hardtops, mid-size and large-size configurations. It went on hiatus after the 1997 model year. Thunderbird returned in 2001 as a retro-styled roadster to serve a similar role to its 1955 forebear - create excitement for the Ford brand.

This year, Ford Thunderbird celebrates its golden anniversary with a 50th anniversary limited-edition 2005 model. As the anniversary coincides with the end of the current generation, the special-edition models are expected to become collector's items.

"There's a place for a dream car in any car company," says Lyons. "At Ford, we're fortunate to have several dream cars, including the new Ford GT and Ford Mustang. For now, the Thunderbird nameplate will be placed on our shelf. But we'll keep it polished for future use."

The Wixom Assembly Plant will continue to produce the Lincoln LS and Town Car and remain the final assembly point for the Ford GT supercar.