Ford Re-Launch: Carmaker Could Stage India Return With Imported Ranger Raptor, Endeavour, Mustang Mach-E

Ford will first bring in its CBU products, such as the Mustang Mach-E electric SUV and the Ranger Raptor hi-performance pick-up truck.

The Ford Ranger Raptor would be a lifestyle pick-up truck, while the imported Mustang Mach-E would be the most expensive Ford in India. The other big launch will be the Endeavour. ( Image Source :Somnath Banerjee )

Ford is returning to India but will not bring volume-based products like the Figo or the Aspire. The carmaker could start with complete built-up (CBU) operations, as was the original plan after Ford winded down local operations.

Ford will first bring in its CBU products, such as the Mustang Mach-E electric SUV and the Ranger Raptor hi-performance pick-up truck. The Ranger Raptor would be a lifestyle pick-up truck, while the imported Mustang Mach-E would be the most expensive Ford in India.

The other big launch would be the Endeavour, placed for a slightly late debut (around 2025). But first, it could come to India via the CBU route to re-establish the Endeavour. The new generation Endeavour could later be assembled here at the Chennai plant. Since the older version was already in production here, it would be easier to quickly start operations of assembling the new one here.

With the move to retain its Chennai plant, Ford kept the doors for an India return open. Even after halting local operations, it regularly advertised its servicing operations and did not completely exit like GM. Kickstarting Ford's India return with CBU products would be seen as a logical move since it would enable the carmaker to re-enter our market quicker while later starting assembly of cars.

Although direct communication regarding Ford's India comeback has not been done, it could be around the corner. Globally, Ford has axed various models in preparation for an electrified future. It could also bring in hybrid and electric cars here while not quite being the same volume player it last was as it could be concentrating on premium products instead.