Ford Motor Company has planned to accelerate new vehicle introductions in Middle East and Africa (MEA), leveraging the company’s One Ford global portfolio and targeting opportunities for growth in the car, utility and truck segments.  

 

Speaking on the eve of the Dubai International Motor Show, Ford said it plans to launch at least 30 new vehicles by 2020 in the MEA region as part of a new regional strategy. 

 

Ford’s product push will start quickly with eight new vehicles throughout the region by the end of next year.

 

This will include the Ford GT super sports car, which is making its regional debut in Dubai this week; the all-new Shelby GT350 Mustang; all-new 2016 Ford Edge SUV that launches next year in MEA; the new 2016 Ford Explorer SUV, which will launch this month in the Middle East; the new 2016 Ford Ranger pickup; and the all-new 2016 Ford Figo compact car, which is currently launching the MEA.

 

Jim Farley, Ford executive vice president, Europe, Middle East and Africa, said: “Middle East and Africa is one of the world’s most exciting and growing vehicle markets and we are moving very quickly to expand our range with exciting cars, utilities and trucks.

 

“We are passionate about meeting the diverse wants and needs of the customers in this region – and that’s how we are going to profitably grow in 2016 and beyond.”

 

Throughout its broad range of vehicles, Ford has introduced a number of innovative systems and technologies in its vehicles designed to keep drivers and passengers safer on the road. These include inflatable rear seat belts, Ford SYNC connectivity and infotainment system and MyKey, which helps parents encourage teens to drive more responsibly by managing features like maximum speed and radio volume.

 

Other newly-launched technologies have been designed to assist the driver in maintaining control of the vehicle and avoiding crashes. These include Roll Stability Control, Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning and Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert.  

 

“It’s an incredibly exciting time for Ford in this growing region. We are committed to serving customers in this region with the very best of Ford, and this will drive growth and profitability,” said Farley.

 

The total Middle East and Africa car market is expected to grow 40 per cent by the end of the decade to 5.5 million vehicles. Ford said it expects its sales in Middle East and Africa to outpace industry growth.

 

Jim Benintende, president of Ford Middle East and Africa, said: "Middle East and Africa spans 67 markets from Saudi Arabia to South Africa, and from Nigeria to Kenya, so customer tastes are as diverse as our markets.

 

“Thanks to our One Ford plan, we can offer vehicles and technology that customers want and value, tailored to the needs of our markets.” - TradeArabia News Service