Ford India sales dips

Bangalore, July 17 (UNI) Hardening interest rates and reluctant bankers had led to a dip in the sale in Ford cars in India during the first six months of the current year but, Ford India is looking forward to make it up during the second half.

Talking to newspersons at the launch of the diesel version of Ford Fusion, Ford India Vice President (Marketing, Sales and Service) Scott McCormack said the company sold 20,462 cars during the first six months of 2007 as against 22,300 cars in the corresponding period previous year.

He said early 2006 sales were driven by Fiesta which continued to be the dominant player in Ford stable. The company sold over 40,000 vehicles in 2006. The growth this year would be little over that, he added.

Replying to questions he said the company was on consolidation mode for the current year carrying out improvements in its existing four models.

He said plans were on to come out with new models. ''Ford is definitely looking at the small car market, which comprised 50 per cent of the total car market in India'', he added.

He said the company's production plant near Chennai had a capacity to produce 65,000 vehicles and with minimal investment the capacity could be expanded to 1,00,000.

Priced at Rs 6.59 lakh (ex-showroom Bangalore), the diesel Fusion was fitted with the proven 1.4 litre engine powered by Ford's proprietary TDCi technology. Its a defining car, combing distinctive styling, versatility and outstanding performance. It aimed to further enhance Ford's share in the mid size market, he added.

UNI