Mahindra, Ford to co-develop mid-size SUV

Mahindra Group and Ford Motor Company have further strengthened their alliance in India by announcing that they will co-develop a midsize sports utility vehicle (SUV) for both India and emerging markets. The new SUV (C-SUV) will be based on a Mahindra product platform and powertrain, which will help the two carmakers reduce product development and engineering costs. Apart from this, the alliance is also focused on collaborating on areas like electrification, distribution and product development.

The new SUV is expected to be based on the 2020 Mahindra XUV500’s all-new monocoque platform and will be powered by the Indian automobile manufacturer’s new BS-VI compliant 2-litre diesel powertrain. Ford, on the other hand, will bring in their expertise in the infotainment system and their software, SYNC.

The new agreement reinforces the steady progress made since the announcement of the strategic alliance between the two companies in September 2017, followed by an announcement on powertrain sharing and connected car solutions in October 2018.

Earlier this fiscal year, the alliance signed an agreement with Mahindra Group to develop and supply a low-displacement petrol engine for use in Ford’s present and future vehicles, beginning in 2020. Mahindra and Ford also announced joint development of a telematics control unit.

Also, read: 

Mahindra and Ford sign new agreements on powertrain sharing and connected mobility Ford joins hands with Mahindra for retail outlets