American automotive behemoth Ford currently has no plans to bring any all-new model to our shores. This change in the company’s policy can to be attributed to many reasons, chief among them being the process of upgrading the newer models according to Bharat Stage VI norms (BSVI). The stricter emission norms mean the company will have to maker major changes to its cars and hence the lapse.
To keep the bandwagon running, Ford plans to rely heavily on facelifts of the current model line-up. Also, newer cars that are expected to arrive after April 2020 will actually not be independently developed Ford vehicles, but rather fruits of a JV between the company and other manufacturers like Mahindra.
Globally, the blue oval-badged company has reduced its platforms from 9 to just 5. This is part of Ford’s strategy to be competitive in emerging high-volume markets, such as India and China. The company plans to develop more versatile models according to the respective demands of this market, and is relying heavily on JVs for the plan to materialize. To let you know, Ford entered into a JV, last year, with Mahindra & Mahindra and both of them are looking forward towards profiting from each other’s strengths.
Ford could also launch the Ford Territory, in India, if it is inline with their plans. The Territory is a product of the Ford-JMC (Jiangling Motor Company) alliance and is based on the JMC Yusheng SM330 crossover. If done right, it could be a worthy rival to the Hyundai Creta.
Also, Ford and Mahindra are working on an SUV, which is reported to be based on the next-gen XUV500 (W601). The first product from this JV is expected to materialize not before 2020. The companies could also jointly develop electric cars, according to some reports.
As of now, ford plans to launch facelifted models of the Figo hatchback and the Aspire sub-compact sedan with new 1.2-litre dragon petrol engines, during the festive season. A facelifted Endeavour is also on the cards but that’ll not be coming before next year. It however remains to be seen whether Ford will bring the upgraded Mustang here or not, given the good response the car has received since its launch.
Via TOI
Also Read: Mahindra Marazzo MPV's twin barrel headlamps teased ahead of launch