Recession has got its hold around Ford’s throat. But still the company has the pedal to the metal. It plans to introduce the new generation of Fiesta based on the winning Mazda platform.
The new Fiesta is speculated to be seen on India roads by 2011. Eyeing the current domestic demand, the company is likely to improve the fuel efficiency of the new car compared to the present day Fiesta. Ford is much optimistic that the car with enhanced fuel economy and performance would do wonders for the company in India.
In addition, the company has taken a less expensive route to tune the old version with a sharp focus on driving pleasure. The company also has plans to localize the new car to about 80% in order to increase its appeal in India. But, unfortunately at this stage when the company is experiencing a severe financial crunch, it may not get the required funds for execution of the project.
So Ford is left with an option to reduce the percentage of localization as well as cost price of the car for the Indian market. The new agenda of execution would design and build the new Fiesta with about 25% of localization. It all depends mainly on the company’s ability to invest.
Ford has high hopes attached with the new Fiesta. If the operations are executed as per the plans and if the market situation is improved till then, Ford would also unveil a hatchback version of the current Ford Fiesta.
As the company is concerned about investment, there are less chances of 80% localization of the car. Because in order to do so, it may need about 100 million dollars, an amount which is economically not feasible.
Ford Fiesta on the lines of Mazda? I think then it would be a great car and I am sure that all car enthusaists would buy one hopefully if the car price remains competitive.
Guys,I had a very bad experience with SC Ford Goregaon. I bought a SXi Fiesta in Jan 2008. I was happy that they gave me discount of 10k. Last week i lost my keys, when i sent my car to Bhavna ford for keys change i was informed that the electronic pad or module which is a standard feature in the car is missing. With the help of this they re-program the car device for new keys. I was not informed while the car was sold to me. Neither this price difference mentioned to me by the dealer. This car without the electronic module is cheaper by 15k. Hence to give me a discount dealer SC Ford has stolen the part from my car. How cheap can they get. Caught in the act Ford company is also mumb and shocked over this issue.