By 2015, Ford Motor Company plans on having introduced 15 new vehicles to China. The decision was made after an, as Ford puts it, aggressive growth plan was laid out for the world’s now largest automotive market. In order to get these vehicles there, 20 new engines and transmissions will be introduced in the next couple of years. The idea is to improve both fuel economy and emissions compared to the current Ford China fleet by twenty percent. Engines such as the recently announced 1.0 liter EcoBoost inline three cylinder and the already proven 2.0 liter EcoBoost inline four will find their way under the hoods of Chinese Fords. All-new and exclusive blocks are being developed as well for China.
“Ford is committed to be a fuel economy leader in every segment that we compete by utilizing advanced powertrain technologies. These technologies represent a core part of our near-term sustainability goals in China,” said Kumar Galhotra, vice president, Product Development, Ford Asia Pacific and Africa. A new, non-turbocharged, gasoline direct injected (GDI) block with variable valve timing will serve working duty fairly soon. To work with it will be Ford’s six speed automatic which will replace the current four speed. The dual-clutch PowerShift transmission which is installed in certain U.S.-spec Focus will also be available to China. Many of the new powertrains will be manufactured inside China via Ford’s joint venture: Changan Ford Mazda Automobile Co., Ltd.
Source: Ford
