Ford India launched its production of its new compact car Ford Figo in Chennai plant following a $500 Million investment by Ford Motor Company. New Ford Figo car production capacity is up to 200,000 units annually – doubling vehicle production at the facility.

In Chennai plant Ford will produce both Diesel and Petrol engines on new flexible line.  Up to ten different engines will be produced for both domestic and export sale. Four cylinder engines in varying displacements up to 1.6 litres also will be produced for export at the Chennai facility.

“Less than six months ago, Ford Motor Company reaffirmed its commitment to transform the plant located here outside of Chennai into a regional manufacturing centre of excellence,” Boneham said.  ”It’s a great honour to have you with us as our projects and investments are turning to reality and the completion of our first Ford Figo off this assembly line.”

The new compact car underscores the importance Ford has placed in the burgeoning India automotive market as well as throughout the region.  While Figo will be manufactured primarily for Indian consumers initially, the new model also will be exported to other countries including South Africa, as early as middle of 2010.

“It’s exciting to see the first new Ford Figo’s coming to life for the India market,” said Nair, “We are totally committed to growing the India market under our ‘ONE Ford’ plan and Figo is an excellent example of utilizing our global assets and expertise to meet the demands of customers here and in future markets.” 

The “Sub B” car category where Figo will be competing comprises more than 70 percent of India’s total new car sales.  Figo is the sixth new Ford model that the automaker has introduced to Indian consumers.

The new Ford Figo will be equipped with a standard 1.2L petrol engine developed exclusively for the India market.  Ford’s class leading, fuel efficient Duratorq 1.4L diesel engine also will be available.  Both models will be equipped with manual five-speed transmissions.  The chassis has been thoroughly retuned for the India market with a more compliant suspension tailored for local road conditions.

The exterior and interior styling of the new Figo are fresh and include bold interpretations of Ford’s kinetic design philosophy.

Check out these stories also:

1. Ford rolls out Figo at Rs 3.49 lakh
2. Michelin Group signs MoU with Tamil Nadu government for Rs 4,000 crore tyre manufacturing plant near chennai
3. Ford India launches Ikon Plus priced at Rs. 5.17 – Rs. 5.77 lacs
4. Ford India to hike prices of all its models
5. Maruti Suzuki unveils new Ritz K12M engine at Gurgaon plant

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