Ford Motor Company has announced plans to invest approximately ₹3,250 crore (US$ 366 million) to restart manufacturing operations at its Maraimalai Nagar facility near Chennai. The revived plant will focus on producing next-generation powertrains, reaffirming Ford’s long-term commitment to India’s manufacturing ecosystem.
Investment and Production Plans
Production at the Chennai plant is expected to commence by 2029, with an annual capacity of 2.35 lakh units. The majority of these will be exported to South-East Asian markets, strengthening Ford’s global supply chain and India’s role as a manufacturing hub.
The investment follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the Government of Tamil Nadu, marking Ford’s formal re-entry into the state’s automotive landscape after ceasing operations in 2022.
Leadership Statements
Mr. Jeff Marentic, President of International Markets Group, Ford Motor Company, said the decision reinforces Ford’s commitment to leveraging India’s manufacturing prowess for future products.
Mr. T. R. B. Rajaa, Minister for Industries, Investment Promotion and Commerce, Government of Tamil Nadu, highlighted that the project underscores the state’s robust automotive ecosystem and is expected to generate over 600 direct jobs.
Strategic Significance
The Maraimalai Nagar plant will serve as a strategic node in Ford’s global production network, focusing on advanced, energy-efficient powertrain technologies.
Ford continues to maintain a strong presence in India through:
- Service and aftermarket operations supporting over one million customers
- Global Business Operations unit employing around 12,000 people in Tamil Nadu
This move marks a major milestone in Ford’s renewed manufacturing presence in India, aligning with its strategy to build sustainable and export-oriented operations while contributing to Tamil Nadu’s leadership in the automotive sector.
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