Ford has taken a significant step towards its re-entry into the Indian market by trademarking the nameplate for its electric SUV, the Mustang Mach-E.
This move suggests that the American automaker is advancing its plans to introduce the Mustang Mach-E to the Indian audience.
The Mustang Mach-E was initially confirmed for an India launch by Ford before the company wrapped up its local operations in 2021.
It is expected that the Mustang Mach-E will be imported into India as a completely built unit (CBU) under the government’s import regulations, which allow for the import of up to 2,500 units without the need for homologation, as reported by Teambhp.
Although Ford has not officially announced the pricing for the Mustang Mach-E in India, it is anticipated to be priced at over Rs 1 crore.
However, the electric SUV will benefit from the lower Goods and Services Tax (GST) rate applicable to electric vehicles in India.
In international markets, the Mustang Mach-E is available in both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, with standard and extended-range variants.
The entry-level RWD Mach-E is equipped with a 72kWh battery, producing 269hp and 430 Nm of torque, and offers a range of 470km. The range extender variant features a 91kWh battery, delivering 294 hp and 430 Nm of torque, with a claimed range of 600km.
The AWD version with the 91kWh battery generates 351 hp and 580 Nm of torque, providing a range of 548km. The top-spec GT AWD variant is powered by the 91kWh battery, producing 487hp and 850 Nm of torque, and offers a range of 489km.
Ford’s decision to trademark the Mustang Mach-E nameplate comes after the company’s recent announcement regarding the sale of its Chennai plant.
Despite receiving multiple offers from carmakers such as Vinfast, MG and Tata Motors, Ford decided to retain the plant, further fueling speculations about its re-entry into the Indian market.
If launched in India, the Mustang Mach-E will compete with luxury electric vehicles such as the Mercedes-Benz EQE, BMW iX, and Audi Q8 e-tron.
Ford is also expanding the performance lineup of the Mustang Mach-E for 2024, with the introduction of a Mach-E Rally version designed for off-road driving.
This version will feature a raised suspension, additional underbody protection and a tuned dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain from the Mach-E GT performance version.
Additionally, an unnamed optional performance upgrade is expected to offer the quickest 0-60 mph time of any production Mach-E model.
Ford has also announced a Bronze Appearance Package for the Mach-E GT, which includes a bronze grille, badging, and 20-inch wheels, along with new colour options of black, white, and green. GT versions of the Mach-E will also come equipped with 10-way performance front seats.
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