Ford Is Back In India! But It’s Not What You Think

Published September 13, 2024
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The American carmaker has submitted a Letter of Intent (LOI) to the Tamil Nadu government for using its Chennai facility for manufacturing cars for export markets

Folks who are a big fan of the Blue Oval, there is a big update for you enthusiasts. Ford is coming back to India! But before you jump screaming out of your bed with joy, there is a big catch. The American manufacturer is coming back to India with its sole focus on exports for global markets. A letter of intent for the same has been submitted to the Tamil Nadu government. There is no news of bringing back domestic sales, yet.

The American carmaker has announced this post the meeting between M.K Stalin, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and senior official of the Ford leadership. In fact, M.K Stalin took to Twitter to say “Had a very engaging discussion with the team from @Ford Motors! Explored the feasibility of renewing Ford’s three decade partnership with Tamil Nadu, to again make Tamil Nadu for the world!”

Had a very engaging discussion with the team from @Ford Motors! Explored the feasibility of renewing Ford’s three decade partnership with Tamil Nadu, to again make in Tamil Nadu for the world!@TRBRajaa @Guidance_TN @TNIndMin #InvestInTN #ThriveInTN #LeadWithTN #DravidianModel pic.twitter.com/J2SbFUs8vv
— M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) September 11, 2024

Ford will continue to manufacture cars from its Maramalai Nagar plant, which will be repurposed, on the outskirts of Chennai. The carmaker also has its engine manufacturing facility in Sanand. Details about what models will be manufactured are yet to be revealed and Ford said it will be announcing it down the line.

Commenting on this news, Kay Hart, President, Ford International Markets, “We are grateful for the ongoing support from the Tamil Nadu Government as we explored different options for the Chennai plant. This step aims to underscore our ongoing commitment to India as we intend to leverage the manufacturing expertise available in Tamil Nadu to serve new global markets.”

Also, there is no news about bringing back its retail network for domestic sales for now. So yeah, Endeavour enthusiasts who are waiting with bated breath for the full size SUV to come back, the wait continues. Come on Ford! Bring back the halo cars such as the Endeavours, Mustangs and Mach-E EVs.