It’s Official: Mahindra and Ford to launch an all-new C-SUV to rival Tata Harrier
The new C-SUV is expected to be based on the next-gen Mahindra XUV500.
Mahindra Group and Ford Motor Company has officially announced that the duo will co-develop a midsize sports utility vehicle. Under the new agreement, Mahindra and Ford will work together to introduce a benchmark product for India and emerging markets.
For people not in the know, Ford and Mahindra entered into the strategic alliance in September 2017. They latter announced in 2018 to share powertrain and connected car solutions in October 2018. The new midsize sports utility vehicle (C-SUV) will have a common Mahindra product platform and powertrain, thus driving engineering and commercial efficiencies.
Dr Pawan Goenka, Managing Director, M&M Ltd. said, “I am happy with the significant progress we have made and synergies we have created since the announcement of our strategic alliance with Ford in 2017. Today’s announcement is another significant step in the collaboration between our two companies. Having identified several areas for joint development, both 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 companies.” Also See – New-gen Ford EcoSport to get Mahindra’s Engine
Mahindra is also developing a low-displacement petrol engine, which will be power the Ford’s present and future vehicles from 2020. Mahindra and Ford also announced joint development of a telematics control unit.
It is expected that the new C-SUV will be launched under the Ford nameplate first. The new model is expected to debut in the end of 2020, while launch could take place in early 2021. This new model will be based on the next-generation Mahindra XUV500, which will be launched in 2020. Not just platform, the new model will also share the engine specifications with the Mahindra’s popular SUV. The SUV is expected to be powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel and petrol engines, which are currently under development.
