(April 2, 2013) NEW DELHI, India — Ford India sold more than 7,400 vehicles in combined wholesales and exports in March 2013 as macroeconomic factors, including high inflation and high interest rates, continued to dampen consumer sentiment and contribute to an industry slowdown.
 
The company sold 5,271 units in domestic wholesales in March, compared with 9,026 units a year earlier, while the exports stood at 2,228 vehicles, compared with 3,122 units a year earlier.
 
Ford India added one new export market, Gabon, this month. The Figo is currently being exported to 36 international markets.
 
“Despite the difficult business environment this quarter, we have continued to build our brand in India with the launch of the Figo Celebration and the Endeavour Alterrain editions. We see the current downturn as cyclical and we expect stronger sales growth in the future,” said Vinay Piparsania, executive director, Marketing Sales and Service, Ford India.
 
In March, Ford India launched the EcoSport Urban Discoveries campaign, its largest-ever consumer engagement program, as it gears up for the launch of India’s most eagerly anticipated urban SUV —  the Ford EcoSport. As part of this campaign, Ford India has embarked on the EcoSport Urban Discoveries roadshow in select cities across India.
 
“EcoSport Urban Discoveries is our biggest consumer engagement campaign to date, and we’re generating substantial consumer interest and excitement ahead of the launch of the game-changing EcoSport,” said Piparsania.
 
Over the coming weeks, consumers in 12 cities across India will be able to touch and feel the Ford EcoSport as it travels with the EcoSport Urban Hub to popular shopping malls every weekend. Consumers will also be able to experience the power of Ford’s SYNC technology and learn about the company’s award-winning 1.0L EcoBoost engine through interactive platforms.
 
Marking the popular sub-compact Figo’s third anniversary in March, Ford India launched the Figo Celebration Edition. With funky new decals co-created by designers Shantanu and Nikhil along with Ford customers, the Celebration Edition makes the Figo even more stylish. It offers an irresistible package, including smart features like Sat-Nav and Reverse Park Assist, as well as Figo branded scuff plates, limited edition seat covers and a rear spoiler.