We have already familiarized ourselves with its presence since the first time it showed itself during earlier auto shows this year. And now, Changan Ford’s Nanjing plant will be producing the concept car in 2009 according to a top Changan Ford executive.The original Verve concept was designed in Europe and according to the news, it was set to compete in the 'B-Car' segment of the market, which is considered as one among the most popular compact cars sold in the US. Associated Press has the news.
The Ford Verve Concept four-door hatchback is one among the hottest cars ever seen at the fifth annual Guangzhou Auto Show. Ford presented the new four-door Verve Concept at Guangzhou Autoshow meaning that the China car market plays a very important role in Ford’s global plans.
Phil Spender, the Chief Operation Officer of Ford Motor (China) Limited, was quoted saying, "With this new four-door Verve Concept, the picture of Ford’s big plans for the small-car segment is becoming clearer. Our future small car is being developed as a global car. It will be designed in Europe, engineered in Germany and manufactured globally. These two Verve Concepts demonstrate how confident Ford is in its direction and its appeal to consumers here in China.”
Shen president of Changan Ford Mazda also said, "The company’s plant in Nanjing is expected to produce 50,000-80,000 vehicles next year. When Verve starts production in 2009, the Nanjing plant will reach its peak production capacity of 160,000 a year.” This does not handle the manufacture of Acura CL catalytic converters.
Changan Ford Mazda is looking forward to produce 225,000 units before the year ends and up a 35% increase for the following year. According to Shen, “But the Chongqing plant’s maximum capacity is only 250,000.”
If you wish to know more about the issue, check out Gasgoo and find out more about the plans of Ford.