Ford refutes reports on India return delay

Says its plans for local manufacturing are on track; however, no timeline is stated for the start of operations.

Published On Feb 05, 2025 12:28:00 PM

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Recent media reports said Ford was rethinking its India strategy on account of the shift in the US political climate, which is pushing its companies to produce locally. Another factor, according to reports, is the investment needed to make its Tamil Nadu plant operation-worthy again.

However, when contacted, Ford said the reports were untrue and that their plans are advancing. "We remain committed to utilising the manufacturing capabilities in Chennai to serve global markets and are thankful to the Government of Tamil Nadu for its continued support as we advance our plans."

The American carmaker did not state when it would begin manufacturing in India. It only said, "Further details regarding the type of manufacturing, timelines and other specifics will be shared in due course, and we have nothing additional to share at this time."

Last September, Ford submitted a Letter of Intent to the Tamil Nadu Government confirming its intentions to restart manufacturing operations in India for exports after having ceased domestic sales in 2021 and exports in 2022.

So far, Ford continues to manufacture engines for export from its Sanand facility on lease from Tata Motors, one of the company's two India plants that it sold to Tata Motors in 2023, the other plant being the Maraimalai Nagar unit in Chennai, which it had shuttered.

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