Just weeks after canceling its Chennai plant sale deal with JSW Group, Ford has filed a design patent for its latest Endeavour SUV model, signalling a potential resurgence in the Indian market. One major participant in the Indian automotive scene, Ford India, recently made a calculated move to allay rumors and doubts about its existence. Focusing on openness and connection with customers, Ford has shared details about its re-entry strategy for the Indian market. ?
Ford India Re-entry?
The design patent filed by Ford pertains to the new-generation Endeavour SUV, which was globally introduced in 2022. One of the noteworthy developments in Ford’s revised strategy is the cancellation of the initial plan to sell its Chennai plant.
Customer Writes To Ford India
Amidst these speculations, a Ford car owner in India took the initiative to inquire about the company’s plans for launching new cars in the country. We appreciate the time you have taken to write to us. We have noted down the contents of your mail. We wish to inform you that at present, we are not in a position to commit to a launch; kindly bear with us. Assuring you of our best support always.” This response from Ford India reflects a cautious yet optimistic stance, acknowledging the customer’s query while refraining from making any concrete commitments at this point.
Key Points
- Background and Context: Ford's decision to be cease manufacturing operations in the India raised questions about the brand's future trajectory in the country. The subsequent speculation and it concerns among customers and enthusiasts prompted Ford India to proactively communicate its plans.
- Customer Assurance and Communication: In recognizing the importance of clear and open communication, Ford India has articulated its commitment to existing customers.
- Re-entry Strategies: Ford India's customer response offers a sneak peek into the brand's re-entry strategies. While specific details remain undisclosed, and that case the brand has hinted at an innovative and customer-centric approach.
- Global Integration and Collaboration: An integral aspect of Ford India's re-entry plans is its integration with global operations and collaborations. By leveraging the strengths of the global Ford network, the brand aims to bring in the latest advancements and best practices to the Indian market
- Electric and Sustainable Mobility: A standout feature in Ford India's customer response is its commitment to electric and sustainable mobility solutions. In line with the global trend towards electric vehicles (EVs) and eco-friendly alternatives, Ford is poised to be a frontrunner in this transformation in India.
- Consumer-Centric Approach: Ford India has emphasized adopting a consumer-centric approach in shaping its re-entry plans. By actively seeking and incorporating customer feedback and the preferences, and the brand aims to tailor its offerings to the unique needs of the Indian market.
- Impact on the Indian Automotive Landscape: Ford India's re-entry plans have the potential to significantly impact the Indian automotive landscape. The brand's renewed focus on electric and the sustainable mobility aligns with the country's broader goals of the reducing carbon emissions and the promoting eco-friendly transportation.
Underpinning the Harrier EV is Tata Motors’ Gen II EV architecture, surpassing the Gen I platform found in the Nexon EV. The electric SUV is expected to house a robust battery pack ranging from 60 kWh to 80 kWh, offering an impressive range of approximately 500 kilometers on a full charge. The Harrier EV is poised to enter the market with a starting price around Rs 35 lakh, ex-showroom. Tata Motors aims to launch the electric SUV in 2024, setting the stage for a head-to-head competition with Mahindra’s XU800 electric SUV, also expected to hit the market in the same year.