Ford begins production of EcoSport in China

Ford has begun production of its crossover SUV, the Ecosport, in China a few months ahead of its debut in the world’s second largest car market. To be manufactured by Chang’an Ford and available by early 2013, the Ecosport is expected to be the American car maker’s sales booster in the People’s Republic. 

The Ecosport will also be released in the Indian market around the same time and is expected to be a volume driver here also. Volume booster apart, the crossover is an important launch in both countries as it will increase the presence of the Ford brand name in China. 

In India it is expected that the SUV will emulate the success of the Figo due to the fact that it will be manufactured here and its overall length is below 4 meters, allowing it certain tax concessions. The Ecosport will be offered with Ford’s award-winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine. We can also expect a diesel engine version soon after the launch, probably the same 1.4-litre TDCi that is present in the Figo and Classic. Mated to these mills will be either a 5-speed manual or Ford’s powershift 6-speed dual clutch gearbox, although we expect only the manual gearbox to make it to Indian shores first.  

Source: CarnewsChina