In a surprising move, Ford has filed a trademark application for the ‘Territory’ nameplate in India. This development has sparked speculation about the automaker’s future plans in the Indian market.
Ford’s Re-entry in the Indian ‘Territory’?
The Ford Territory is a midsize SUV that is currently sold in the global market. It is offered with a 1.8-liter turbo-petrol engine that puts out 189 BHP and 320 Nm, mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission. If launched in India, the Ford Territory could compete with models like the Tata Harrier, Mahindra XUV700, and the MG Hector.
Despite the trademark filing, Ford has not confirmed its plans for the Indian market. However, the move suggests that the automaker is exploring different segments and is committed to re-establishing its foothold. The SUV segment strikes a decent proposition of good profitability and sales.
A Comeback in the Making?
There have been reports of the ‘Blue Oval’ making a return to the Indian market with the Everest SUV. The recent trademark filing for the ‘Territory’ nameplate adds to the buzz surrounding Ford’s potential resurgence.
While Ford has maintained its manufacturing facility in Chennai, there have been murmurs about the possibility of reviving its production operations. The emergence of patents for various models, including the Ford Territory SUV, underscores the company’s exploration of different segments.
While the trademark filing has sparked speculation, it remains to be seen whether Ford will indeed launch the Territory in India. As of now, the launch seems unlikely. However, the move indicates that Ford is not completely ruling out the possibility of a comeback in the Indian market.
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