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Ford on Escort as 'Most Problem-Free Car in India'

11 November 1997

Statement From Ford Vice Chairman in Reaction to the Indian-Manufactured Ford Escort Being Named 'Most Problem-Free Car in India' By J.D. Power and Associates

    DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 11 -- The following is a statement from
Wayne Booker, Ford Motor Company vice chairman, in reaction to the
Indian-manufactured Ford Escort being named "most problem-free car in India"
by J.D. Power and Associates.
    "Obviously we are pleased to have earned this award, for it means our
customers in India are the ultimate winners.  The team there is dedicated to
providing durable, reliable vehicles at a price that represents real value to
the customer.  This award is a validation of the Mahindra Ford team's efforts
to date, as well as a spur to strive for even greater heights in the name of
customer satisfaction.  It's a good start.  We can, and must, do even better."
    Mahindra & Mahindra Limited of India and Ford Motor Company began
producing the Ford Escort at an existing Mahindra facility in Nashki,
Maharashtra in August 1996, only 10 months after receiving government approval
to form the Mahindra Ford India, Ltd. venture.  In 1999, Mahindra Ford will
start production of a Ford Fiesta-derived car at a new facility in Maraimalai
Nagar (Tamil Nadu state), south of Chennai.

SOURCE  Ford Motor Company