In an interesting turn of events, top Ford officials have come to India to discuss the future plans of the American auto giant with the government of Tamil Nadu. Note that Ford operates the manufacturing plant in Maraimalai Nagar on the outskirts of Chennai. There were many reports floating around about Ford trying to sell this plant. In fact, JSW Group was among the top contenders to buy it for around $100 million. However, the plans fell through. Recently, the internet has been flooded with rumours suggesting Ford’s comeback to India. The images of Ford Everest and Ranger on the back of a tow truck in Chennai further provided fuel to this rumour.
You may also like: Ford India to Restart Operations with a Maruti Grand Vitara-Rival, Patent Image Leaked
Ford Officials Arrive in India
As per an Autocar report, Ford Motor Company’s President, Kay Hart came to India to assess the next steps for its operations here. A spokesperson close to the matter said, “Senior leaders from Ford met and conveyed our sincere appreciation for the Tamil Nadu government’s invaluable support as the company undertakes a study to explore the future use of the Chennai manufacturing facility. We plan to create 2,500-3,000 additional jobs over the next three years at our headquarters.”
You may also like: BREAKING! Ford Starts Hiring for its ‘EV Revolution in India’
Using its plant in India, Ford could commence manufacturing cars. The high level of localization will allow it to offer vehicles at competitive prices. In fact, going forward, Ford can produce EVs at this plant not just for the Indian market but for export purposes as well. Using this, it can even avail of the 15% import duty on vehicles like the Mustang Mach-E if it brings it to India. That will ensure an aggressive pricing. Note that Ford has been secretly developing a low-cost EV architecture to offer affordable EVs. In all this, Ford’s Chennai is capable of playing a crucial role.
You may also like: Ford India to Form JV with Tata Motors, Restart Operations with Hyundai Creta-Rival
You may also like: Indian Vlogger Test Drives New Ford Endeavour
Author’s Note
If we take into account the recent Ford job listings and the sighting of Ranger and Endeavour vehicles in Chennai, it appears that the American car manufacturer may be gearing up for a return to our market after a hiatus of two and a half years since it ceased car production here. With an existing Chennai plant capable of churning out 150,000-200,000 cars and 350,000 engines annually, Ford’s re-entry holds significant strategic importance. The company is determined to address the challenges that previously led to substantial losses amounting to $2 billion, prioritizing profitability this time around. While deliberating the possibility of introducing premium models like the new-generation Endeavour and the Mach-E, Ford is focusing on bolstering its position in the country by giving priority to mainstream models such as the mid-size SUV.
