Ford India is hugely benefiting from its Make In India manufacturing and export strategy. The Chennai-based carmaker has today reported strong exports of 17,904 units in December 2016, up 262% year on year (December 105: 4,941). In calendar year 2016, Ford India has shipped a total of 151,638 units to overseas markets.
The surge in export numbers has come about thanks to the growing demand from overseas markets for the made-in-Chennai new Figo, which is sold as the Ka+ in the UK and Europe. The new Figo gave a fillip to Ford’s exports in end-July when it started shipments to European countries.
Meanwhile, in another testament of the growing importance of India as an export hub for global car manufacturers, it is learnt that Ford Motor Co will sell its made-in-India EcoSport in the US. The Detroit-based auto major unveiled the facelifted version of the EcoSport at the Los Angeles Motor Show in mid-November. The compact SUV, a first for the North American market by Ford, will make its debut in the US by early 2018.
Related: Exports sustain the drive for global carmakers in India