Ford Endeavour Not Coming To India

After months of spy shots and speculations, we can confirm that the Ford Endeavour SUV will not come to India. Instead, the American manufacturer has decided to launch the new SUV with the Ford Everest name in India. But why? We find out.
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Ford Everest: Why?

A source close to Autocar India has confirmed that Ford will indeed bring the Endeavour to India but rebadge it to be sold as the Ford Everest. According to the report, Ford India decided to use the Endeavour badge in India as the Everest name was trademarked to another entity in the country.  But now as Ford has acquired the rights to the name, it will restart its India innings with the Everest SUV.

Besides, the Everest model name will help Ford reinforce its image as a global SUV manufacturer. Given that Ford plans to sell a limited number of CBU models upon re-entry, the new name will save costs for the company as can directly import the model from other RHD markets without investing in localising new badges and nameplates for the model.

Read More: New Ford Endeavour At Rs 3.25 Lakhs – Here’s How!

Ford India Local Production

At present, Ford India has not shared plans to start local manufacturing in India. The brand will restart its India journey with CBU models until its EV strategy is established. This could mean late 2025 or 2026 until Ford formally starts manufacturing in India. Late last year the company cancelled the sale of its facility outside Chennai where it plans to manufacture EVs for local and export markets.

Recent rumours also suggested that Ford is looking to partner with an Indian manufacturer for technology sharing and manufacturing of hybrid and electric vehicles. While no deal has been formally signed or announced, industry sources suggest Tata Motors is a leading contender.

Read More: Ford Should Get These Cars To India

Ford Everest: Spy Shots & Design Trademarks

News of Ford’s re-entry first emerged in January 2024, when the company filed design patents for the Everest. Post that, Ford also started hiring engineers at its manufacturing facility outside Chennai. More recently, the first CBU models of the Everest were spotted during transport near the company’s plant, confirming its re-entry in India.

While Ford has not officially stated its plans to re-enter India, we expect the CBU Ford Everest to launch in India before the end of 2024 with local production starting by 2026. Expect the Everest to be priced between Rs 60 lakh and Rs 70 lakh (ex-showroom).

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