Ford India cumulative sales (domestic wholesales and exports) in March 2015 stand at 15,775 vehicles (PY 11,805 units), equating to 33.62 pct sales growth. March 2015 domestic wholesales were reported at 5,253 vehicles (PY 6,356 units) equating to 17.35 pct sales decline. Last month Ford India exports grew to 10,522 vehicles (PY 5,449 units) equating to 93 pct sales growth. No doubt, Ford is committed to making India an export hub. Ford India exports will be tripled. The new sub 4 metre Figo Aspire sedan will also be exported from its newly built Sanand plant.
In fact, sales last month clearly point to two thirds of total sales being accounted for through Ford India exports, and domestic sales accounting for a third of total sales. Anurag Mehrotra, executive director Marketing, Sales and Service at Ford India says with economic recovery being slower than anticipated, coupled with high interest rate, and inflation, customer spending continues to be deferred. Ford’s faith in long-term growth prospects in India remains intact. Last week, Ford India inaugurated its US $1-billion integrated manufacturing facility.
India is a key market for Ford. Sanand plant being operational renders the auto manufacturer stronger than ever. Ford India looks to introduce three new models with class leading features as value offerings in the next 12-18 months. Ford Figo Aspire is the first car to roll-out from Sanand plant, and goes on sale in 2015. In addition to employment opportunities and contributing to economy, Ford manufacturing operations at Sanand enables the automaker to offer quality products, both in India and abroad.
In supporting the country’s ‘Make in India’ motto, Sanand Vehicle Assembly and Engine Assembly plant looks to establish the country as a major global manufacturing hub. With installed annual capacity at 240,000 vehicles and 270,000 engines, Sanand plant almost doubles Ford’s installed production capacity in India. Production will begin with single shift operations.
