Ford India combined sales for domestic wholesales and exports stood at 11,209 units in December, up 3 percent from a year earlier. Exports in December were at 5338 units as compared to 4382 units a year earlier. So while the exports are up, the domestic sales are still not at the levels of December 2012, even with the runaway success of the Ecosport.
Ford India managed to sell a total of 119,715 cars in 2013, even with the once strong sales the Figo hatch dwindling down. The company turned its fortunes around by introducing the strongly priced and packaged Ecosport. The product helped Ford keep its head above water during what was an extremely challenging year for the auto industry. For the year 2013, exports totaled 39,284 vehicles, up 29 percent from 2012. Ford exports vehicles from India to over 40 destinations including South Africa, Mexico, Australia, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Venezuela and Taiwan.
Sales throughout the year were supported by new launches. In 2013, Ford India launched the Figo Celebration edition, the Endeavour Alterrain edition and the new Ford EcoSport. Ford India also expanded its dealership network to 274 sales and service outlets, covering 146 cities across the country
“Despite difficult economic and business environment, 2013 has been a remarkable and rewarding year for Ford in India,” said Vinay Piparsania, executive director of Marketing, Sales and Service, Ford India. “With several months of sustained sales performances and Ford EcoSport recognized with major awards in its debut year, we are excited to conclude the year with our products finding greater acceptance from customers and media.”