CBYCarImagesThe Middle East and Africa is a diverse region for Ford vehicles. 

The company revealed that eight vehicles will first be released, all of which will be showcased at the Dubai International Motor Show. The models include the Ford GT super sports car, the Shelby GT350 Mustang, Ford Edge SUV, Ford Explorer SUV, Ford Ranger pickup and the new Ford Figo.

Ford executive vice-president Jim Farley said, “Middle East & Africa is one of the world’s most exciting and growing vehicle markets and we are moving very quickly to expand our range with exciting cars, utilities and trucks. We are passionate about meeting the diverse wants and needs of the customers in this region – and that’s how we are going to profitably grow in 2016 and beyond.”

The USA-based automotive manufacturer has introduced a range of creative systems and technologies in its vehicles, such as inflatable rear seat belts, Ford SYNC connectivity, infotainment system and MyKey. Other newly-launched technologies are designed to assist the driver in maintaining control of the vehicle and avoiding crashes such as roll stability control, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control with collision warning and blind spot information system (BLIS) with cross-traffic alert.

Ford MEA, which was launched in 2013, is planning to open 35 new dealerships in the next two years, aims to improve customer experience, tailor global vehicles to regional needs, improve distribution capabilities, identify sources for global and regional production, develop regional organisations, vehicle finance options, improve cost ownership and facilitate spare parts availability.

Ford president for Middle East and Africa Jim Benitende said that its an exciting time for the company in this region, as the car market is expected to grow 40 per cent by the end of the decade to 5.5mn vehicles. Specifically, Ford expects its sales in MEA to outpace industry growth. The region covers 67 markets and there’s diverse customer preference, which could work in favour of the company's expansion plans.

Source : africanreview.com