Ford puts Explorer on hold

Ford bosses in America have put back the launch of the new Explorer.

The new off-roader was unveiled in August this year, with some executives mooting - but not promising - a January on-sale date for the domestic market.

But now the Blue Oval will only say that the car will go on sale some time in the first quarter.

Many believe the delay is linked to the current-generation Explorer's tyre woes, after 6.5 million Firestone tyres were recalled earlier this year.

There were also some quality problems.

Ford has undertaken hurried negotiations with other tyre companies, including Michelin, to meet demand for the new Explorer.