The year 2014 too started on a an optimistic note with the Ford EcoSport emerging as India's most-awarded vehicle ever, garnering more than 30 coveted industry awards in less than a year since its launch. "The EcoSport is a perfect demonstration of the One Ford philosophy where we are harnessing our global resources to draw on our strengths to develop world-class products that customers want and value. We are thrilled with the response to our vehicles and are confident of Ford playing a significant part in the next phase of growth in India's automotive industry."

Of course, the success notwithstanding, Harris is not allowing any kind of complacency. "We have a laser sharp focus to grow our business and bring significant scale within our manufacturing operations. We are on track to deliver on our committed US$ two billion investment and expansion plans to elevate India as the centre of excellence for small cars and low displacement engines, both for domestic and export markets." Harris wishes to achieve this by offering ‘products that make value sense by taking a quantum leap towards low cost of ownership with reduced service intervals, enhanced durability and reliability, superior fuel efficiency and an ever increasing  service'.

Of course, despite the tough situation in the recent times, the long-term promise for Indian automotive industry remains intact. "We have strong belief in the long term potential of the Indian automotive market and have a robust strategy in place to tap the domestic potential in this market as well as use the region as a sourcing hub. As India's auto industry is expected to reach seven million by 2020, and as the hinterlands of India fuel its automotive growth, Ford is going for the heart of the Indian automobile market and plans to strengthen its presence in the B segment."

In line this strategy, at the Delhi Auto Expo, Ford presented two new B-segment products - the Ford Figo Concept and the 2014 Fiesta, a premium compact sedan for the car enthusiasts. "As India strengthens its position in the global auto market, Ford will continue to offer great quality products with superior safety features and smart in-car technology that promise to offer greater ownership experience with an overall lower cost of ownership," Harris says.