Mahindra, Ford to jointly make a new mid-size SUV

New Delhi : Mahindra and Ford on Thursday announced that they will be jointly producing a new mid-size C-segment SUV.

"Having identified several areas for joint development, both companies will continue to work together to develop products using common product platforms. This will reduce product development costs and gain economies of scale for both companies,” Pawan Goenka, managing director, M&M Ltd said.

The new SUV is expected to be launched in India by end-2020, Mahindra’s W601 will be built on an all-new monocoque platform and is likely to have a longer wheelbase and a larger rear overhang, compared to the current XUV500.

The car will be powered by a powerful Mahindra's new-generation, state-of-the-art, 2.0-litre diesel engine; it generates a whopping 180hp. This BS-VI-compliant engine will be shared with Ford's C-SUV as well.

In terms of Ford, the company will provide the touchscreen infotainment system for use in both the SUVs. Sitting a level below its Sync3 suite, the new system is likely to get a screen similar to that on the lower-spec EcoSport, but with several upgrades. 

The carmakers issued a joint statement announcing their strategic alliance focused on expanding their global reach. Further areas of collaboration include electrification, distribution and product development. 

In October last year, Mahindra agreed to supply new small-capacity BS-VI-compliant petrol engines to Ford as part of their alliance.