Daijiworld Media Network – Chennai
Chennai, Oct 31: Global automobile major Ford Motor Company has announced plans to resume manufacturing operations at its Chennai plant, focusing on the production of next-generation engines. The revival comes with an initial investment of Rs 3,250 crore, and is expected to create over 600 jobs, the company confirmed in a statement on Friday.
The move marks Ford’s return to India’s manufacturing scene after it halted operations at its Maraimalai Nagar facility in 2021. The company had earlier expressed interest in restarting production during Chief Minister M.K. Stalin’s visit to the United States in 2024, when it submitted a Letter of Intent (LOI) to the Tamil Nadu government.
Building on the LOI, Ford and the Tamil Nadu government have now signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), outlining a strategic roadmap that aligns with the company’s Ford+ plan, leveraging India’s engineering and manufacturing strengths for global operations.
The project is expected to commence later this year, with the Chennai plant projected to achieve an annual production capacity of 2.35 lakh engines by 2029.
“We are pleased to advance our plans and confirm the Chennai plant’s vital role in Ford’s manufacturing network,” said Jeff Marentic, President, International Markets Group, Ford Motor Company. “We are thankful to the government of Tamil Nadu for its continued support as we advance these plans. This decision reinforces our commitment to leveraging India’s manufacturing prowess for future products,” he added.
Welcoming the development, Tamil Nadu Minister for Industries T.R.B. Rajaa said the decision highlights the State’s growing reputation as a global automotive hub. “Ford’s decision to recommence operations speaks volumes about Tamil Nadu’s robust manufacturing ecosystem, highly skilled workforce, and excellent investor facilitation under the leadership of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin,” he said.
“This is not just the restart of an old plant, but a step towards the future of automotive manufacturing with next-generation engine production. The State remains fully committed to supporting Ford’s operations in every way possible,” the Minister added.