Ford And Mahindra To Partner On Engines And Connectivity Solutions

Ford and Mahindra have agreed to partner on powertrains and connected car solutions in the latest collaboration between the pair.

The first agreement signed between Ford and Mahindra will see the Indian automaker develop and supply a low-displacement petrol engine which Ford India will use in a selection of vehicles from 2020 onward. Specifics about this powertrain remain under wraps.

Alongside its collaboration on powertrains, Ford and Mahindra will work together to jointly develop a telematics control unit. This system will control the tracking of a vehicle and may incorporate a GPS system working alongside WiFi and LTE.

The two automotive giants made public their strategic alliance in September 2017. This was strengthened in March 2018 with the signing of five Memoranda of Understanding.

Previous announcements from the pair have confirmed that they will also develop compact and midsize SUVs together as well as electric vehicles and various connectivity solutions.

“Today’s announcement further builds on commitments made so far, leading to a fruition of exciting new opportunities. We are confident to meet customer expectations by working together on a number of joint development areas,” said managing director and Mahindra and Mahindra, Dr Pawan Goenka.

The alliance between Ford and Mahindra is one of many to have been forged across the industry in recent years as car manufacturers look to share the costs of developing new technologies, particularly electric powertrains and autonomous driving functions.

Earlier this year, Ford signed a similar Memorandum of Understanding with Volkswagen and will work on commercial vehicles together. This alliance is also tipped to expand further in the coming years.