(January 30, 2014) RAYONG, Thailand — Ford Motor Company today celebrated the official start of production for the all-new Ford EcoSport urban SUV at the company’s state-of-the-art Ford Thailand Manufacturing (FTM) plant in Rayong.

FTM becomes the fourth plant globally to build the all-new EcoSport, joining Ford facilities in Chennai, India, Chonqing, China and Camcari, Brazil, reinforcing the strategic role of Thailand as a volume production and export hub in the region.

The Thai-built models will be for domestic sale and export to markets across the ASEAN region. The all-new EcoSport will eventually be sold in 100 markets worldwide.

“The all-new EcoSport continues our ongoing product-led transformation by providing customers with another segment-leading vehicle to our growing Ford showroom across our ASEAN markets,” said Matt Bradley, president, Ford ASEAN.

“Produced at our highly flexible Ford Thailand Manufacturing facility, it is the next proof point in our continued growth strategy in the region,” he added.

The all-new Ford EcoSport is an aspirational alternative to the compact car – spacious enough for five adults and their gear. Its practical blend of versatility and smart connectivity is designed to meet the needs and requirements of an urban lifestyle.

Ford says that a high driving position, rugged capability, superior fuel economy and convenient features, including a sunroof, all make the all-new EcoSport an ideal companion for both city streets and mountain roads.

“Based on Ford’s global B-segment platform, the EcoSport urban SUV will appeal to people with a strong streak of independence who love exploring the world at large,” said Yukontorn ‘Vickie’ Wisadkosin, managing director, Ford Thailand. “Combining small-car practicality with the agility of a SUV, it delivers a segment-leading package of quality, safety, fuel-economy and value.”

The all-new EcoSport is powered by Ford’s global 1.5-liter Ti-VCT engine, and mated to either the fuel-efficient six-speed Ford PowerShift automatic transmission or five-speed manual transmission that is well-suited to urban driving conditions.

“The all-new EcoSport will confidently create its own space in a highly attractive and very practical vehicle segment,” explained Yukontorn.