Will Ford prioritize EVs and hybrids as it makes its comeback?

Ford is reportedly planning to make an India comeback after it packed up and shipped out in 2021. This was not the first time the American auto giant left India and won’t be the first time it re-enters. Strong indications are that the company is once again looking at the Indian automotive market with yearning eyes and while it is speculated that the Endeavour SUV could be brought in, a report also suggests that Ford would look to go big on electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids.

A report in The Hindu Business Line, crediting sources, highlights that Ford is looking at making use of manufacturing facilities in Chennai to go big on EVs and hybrids for the market here. There has been no official word on this from the company. Ford has also filed a design trademark for the new-gen Endeavour and a nameplate trademark for the Mustang Mach-E. It is also reported that the company is actively looking at hiring personnel for its India comeback.

If Ford does make its India return official, it would likely look at lucrative segments like SUVs to chart its course. In this regard, the likes of Endeavour and a mid-size SUV could hold a lot of promise. Hybrids could help prospects if priced well even if such vehicles do not attract subsidies like fully-electric cars do. The rise in sales of EV is expected to slow down worldwide, but the buzz around Ford’s possible India return continues to gather steam.

As per Bloomberg, shipments of F-150 Lightning were recently halted due to quality-related issues in the United States. Production of Mustang Mach-E has also been reduced. India is now the world’s third-largest vehicle market, and Ford’s potential return signifies the massive opportunity it sees in the Indian automotive sector. The allure of the Indian market, coupled with the focus on EVs and hybrids, could pave the way for Ford’s re-entry into the country’s automotive landscape.