The Blue Oval wants Chinese consumers to know that they’re also going to get the upcoming Ranger truck-based Everest SUV with the local debut of the concept model at the Beijing Auto Show.
Ford said that the midsize, seven-seat off-road SUV “could be produced for the Chinese market by Ford’s joint venture partner, JMC”. We first saw the study that was designed by Ford’s Asia Pacific design and engineering team in Australia last year and recently caught up with a test mule as well.
“The Ford Everest Concept, created by our outstanding regional team in Australia, previews a bold new direction for the midsize off-road SUV segment that would allow us to serve a wider range of consumers here in China,” said John Lawler, CEO of Ford China.
“It’s a concept that offers beautiful design, premium refinement and rugged capabilities in equal measure. A vehicle like the Ford Everest Concept would be a great addition to our growing stable of SUVs, helping us to further strengthen our position in the rapidly growing utility segment,” he added.
And just in case you were wondering, Ford has no current plans to sell the production car that will follow within the next year or so in North America.
By John Halas
PHOTO GALLERY
