Mahindra Group and Ford Motor Company, taking the next step towards strengthening their ongoing strategic alliance in India, have entered into a definitive agreement to co-develop a midsize sports utility vehicle (C-SUV).
Under the agreement, Mahindra and Ford would work together to introduce a benchmark product for India and emerging markets.
They had announced a strategic alliance in September 2017, followed by an announcement on powertrain sharing and connected car solutions in October 2018.
The C-SUV would have a common Mahindra product platform and powertrain, thus driving engineering and commercial efficiencies.
Pawan Goenka, managing director, M&M Ltd. said, “Having identified several areas for joint development, both the companies will continue to work together to develop products using common product platforms.
“This will reduce product development costs and gain economies of scale for both the companies,” Mr. Goenka added.
“Ford’s technological leadership combined with Mahindra’s successful operating model and product prowess will surely help us deliver a vehicle that will meet the expectations of customers in India as well as other emerging markets,” said Jim Farley, president, Ford New Businesses, Technology and Strategy.
Leveraging benefits
The strategic alliance between the two companies is focused on leveraging the benefits of both the companies — Ford’s global reach and expertise and Mahindra’s scale and successful operating model in India.
Teams from both the companies continue to collaborate on all areas of mutual interest, including electrification, distribution and product development.
