Ford, having exited the Indian market in 2021, is now strategically increasing its presence within the nation with a distinct focus. As an alternative of automotive manufacturing, Ford is concentrating on the event of electrical car (EV) functions for its world EV platforms.
“We’re constructing and designing new manufacturing traces for electrical autos in Chennai which is able to use VR/AR to mannequin and simulate meeting line move and that is being carried out for our new EV platform manufacturing,” mentioned Mike Amend, Chief Enterprise Tech Officer of Ford Motor Firm.
Growth Plans in Chennai Tech Hub
The corporate is about to bolster its Chennai tech hub, planning to rent a further 3,000 staff within the subsequent two to a few years. At present, the Chennai hub accommodates 12,000 staff and is enjoying a pivotal position in designing and constructing new manufacturing traces for EVs. The groups in Chennai make the most of cutting-edge applied sciences like digital actuality (VR) and augmented actuality (AR) to mannequin and simulate meeting line flows for the brand new EV platform manufacturing. This includes duties similar to creating flooring plans, managing materials move, establishing meeting traces, and organizing device stations.
Concentrate on EV-Associated Capabilities
Ford emphasizes the numerous position of the Chennai groups in increasing its EV-related capabilities. The groups deal with numerous consumer-facing software program facets associated to EVs, together with car theft, charging options, Ford Professional business car fleet administration, car well being surveys, and car uptime monitoring. The corporate plans to additional improve these capabilities and add extra EV-related work in Chennai.
Funding Technique and Future Plans
As a part of its funding technique, Ford has already invested round $250 million within the Chennai heart over the previous 5 years. The corporate goals to proceed this momentum by specializing in EV-related capabilities similar to synthetic intelligence, machine studying, buyer relationship administration, digital commerce, information analytics, cybersecurity options, and normal software program growth.