After a temporary halt in its operations in 2021, Ford India is gearing up for a potential comeback, with the iconic Ford Endeavour set to re-enter the Indian market. Recent developments including the filing of a patent for the Endeavour's design and job openings suggest Ford's renewed commitment to the Indian automotive landscape.
Design Patent and Manufacturing
- Ford has filed a design patent for the latest-generation Endeavour also known as the Ford Everest in international markets.
- Plans include assembling the Endeavour at Ford's Chennai plant, with the option of exploring direct imports until local assembly begins in 2025.
- The Chennai plant initially marked for sale remains a valuable asset for Ford's re-entry strategy.
Potential Early Arrival
- There's speculation that Ford might consider importing fully-built Endeavour units before 2025, taking advantage of the current regulations allowing up to 2,500 units annually without homologation.
- With the Toyota Fortuner's prices soaring, an imported Endeavour could offer a competitive alternative in the premium SUV segment.
Chennai Plant Retention
- Ford's decision to retain its Chennai plant, initially up for sale, hints at a strategic move to resume operations in India.
- The plant had previously manufactured the older generation Endeavour facilitating a smoother transition to produce the new Endeavour.
Endeavour's Exterior Highlights
- The new Endeavour maintains its association with the Ranger pickup's platform featuring a robust ladder-frame architecture.
- Exterior design elements include a bold front grille, Matrix LED headlights, and a squared-off, upright rear-end with distinctive LED tail-lights.
Modern Interior and Technology
- The three-row cabin boasts a modern design with a prominent 12-inch touchscreen running the latest SYNC infotainment software.
- Safety features include nine airbags, hands-free parking, adaptive cruise control, and Ford’s Pre-Collision Assist with Intersection Assist.
Powertrain Options
- Engine choices comprise two 2.0-litre turbo-diesel variants and a new 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel, aligning with global specifications.
- Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 10-speed automatic, depending on the engine variant.
Ford's strategic moves, including the design patent, job openings, and retention of the Chennai plant indicate a strong likelihood of the Ford Endeavour's return to the Indian market by 2025. The SUV's blend of robust design, modern features, and competitive pricing is expected to make it a compelling choice for SUV enthusiasts in India.