Ford filed for the design patent of the third-generation Endeavour, known as the Everest globally, in India just a while ago and the full-size SUV made its world debut back in March 2022 following the brand’s exit from the domestic market a few months prior. The Endeavour is a popular nameplate and even during the time of Ford’s exit, it was selling in decent numbers.
The Detroit-based company’s departure from the Indian market was a strategic move as part of its global restructuring process. The American automaker faced significant losses locally due to underutilisation of its production plants. In August 2022, Ford made the decision to sell its Sanand plant to Tata Motors but interestingly, the Maraimalai Nagar plant in Tamil Nadu remains unsold.
Several top OEMs expressed interest in acquiring the plant near Chennai, but JSW Group emerged as the frontrunner in negotiations. However, despite coming close to finalising a deal, it ultimately fell through and speculations on Ford’s comeback to India have risen since then. It is also said to be hiring new personnel and the third generation Endeavour could kick start its revival.
Ford may consider exporting the new Endeavour from the 350-acre plant in Tamil Nadu, which has an annual production capacity of 1.5 lakh cars and 3.4 lakh engines. Since its shares the same platform with the previous model, the options to retool the existing architecture may help Ford to increase its volume projections for foreign markets.
The third-generation model, in contrast to the previous Endeavour available in India, incorporates advanced assistive and safety features. Its cabin offers a more premium feel with a comprehensive list of features, including a 12-inch touchscreen and an all-digital cluster. Moreover, its design takes significant inspiration from the F-150 pickup.
Initially, the new Endeavour, which has now been spotted testing on a flat bed truck near Chennai in its base Trend form, could be brought into the country via CBU route before hitting local assembly lines later this year. The Mustang Mach-e is also under consideration for India.
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