A report by The Hindu Businessline hints that Ford could enter India again with a new Creta rival on the back of a Joint Venture (JV) with Tata Motors. When Ford and Mahindra terminated their joint venture in 2021, it led to the cancellation of several upcoming models, including the Ford C-SUV based on the Mahindra XUV700 (W601). Internally referred to as the CX757, this model was intended to be specific to the Indian market. It held significant importance for Ford India, as it aimed to fill the gap between the Ecosport and the Endeavour with a strong contender. However, Ford eventually ceased its operations and withdrew from our market. Nonetheless, there are now indications of a potential comeback. The carmaker recently filed design patents for the latest-generation Endeavour, and there have been leaks of another patent.
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Ford to Re-enter India with Tata Motors JV?
Remember Ford still has the Chennai manufacturing facility in India. It already sold the Sanand plant in Gujarat to Tata Passenger Electric Mobility for Rs 725 Crore. But it can leverage its Chennai facility which has a capacity to produce between 150,000 and 200,000 cars and 340,000 engines. The recently filed patent shows an SUV which will be slightly bigger than the EcoSport. This is evidently a product which belongs to the burgeoning mid-size SUV segment of our market. Having already worked with Mahindra, the American auto giant could now strike a partnership with Tata Motors, the biggest Indian automaker. Together, they could design an SUV which Ford doesn’t offer in any other international market.
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While its Endeavour was wildly popular in our market, to start the new innings, a locally-manufactured mid-size SUV might be the right approach. The design of the upcoming SUV bears resemblance to the prototype spotted in 2020, particularly evident in the front end, indicating continuity from the model initially speculated to be a collaboration with Mahindra. Key design features from the patent include mesh-like inserts in the front grille, complemented by boomerang-shaped headlights showcasing a sleek LED DRL on the top. Furthermore, the lower air dam integrates a small plastic section, possibly accommodating the radar for the ADAS feature.
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Author’s Note
Ford’s re-entry into the Indian market holds strategic significance. Naturally, the carmaker will strive to steer clear of the challenges that resulted in substantial losses of $2 billion during its previous tenure. This time around, the focus will be on guaranteeing profitability. While the company might consider introducing premium models such as the new-gen Endeavour and even the Mach-E, it will also prioritize mainstream models like the compact SUV to solidify its position in the country.
