Ford is officially making a comeback to India. The American automaker has confirmed that it will restart operations at its Maraimalai Nagar facility near Chennai by 2029, investing ₹3,250 crore to revamp the plant and resume production.
Ford Signs MoU with Tamil Nadu Government
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Ford and the Tamil Nadu government in the presence of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, and Industries Minister T.R.B. Raja. The agreement confirms Ford’s long-term commitment to reviving its Indian operations and contributing to local manufacturing.
Industries Minister T.R.B. Raja shared the announcement on Instagram, stating, “Today, Ford and the Government of Tamil Nadu signed an MoU in the presence of Honourable Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and our Honourable Deputy Chief Minister Udhay Stalin.”
₹3,250 Crore Investment and Job Creation
Ford’s Maraimalai Nagar facility will be revamped to produce next-generation engines for export markets, reaffirming the company’s focus on global manufacturing efficiency. This major investment is expected to create over 600 jobs, providing a significant boost to Tamil Nadu’s automotive sector.
Back in 2024, Ford had submitted a Letter of Intent (LOI) expressing interest in restarting operations at the same facility after shutting it down in 2021 due to declining sales and heavy losses.
Will Ford Cars Return to Indian Roads?
While Ford’s manufacturing revival is confirmed, the automaker has no immediate plans to reintroduce new vehicles to the Indian market.
Earlier reports had hinted at Ford bringing back models like the Ford Everest (Endeavour) and the Mustang, especially after test mules were spotted in India. However, those plans never materialized.
For now, Ford’s India operations will focus on engine production and exports, but the brand’s return has rekindled hopes among fans and enthusiasts for a full-fledged relaunch of its iconic cars in the near future.
