Ford India takes ‘Ford Assured’ to 5 key markets

Sample This! Motown India was the first publication to report that Ford India has also is planning to re-enter the used car segment by re-launching its ‘Ford Assured’ programme and now the company has officially announced the opening of Ford Assured – its multi-brand used car retail operation – in Delhi, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Pune and Kochi. It may be recalled that the pre-owned car programme, which was launched in CY 2000, in which Ford India, along with its dealerships, bought, reconditioned and sold various models of used cars. According to the company’s official statement, “Delivering vehicles at outstanding value for money, Ford Assured will carry Ford’s world-class service quality and customer commitment. Part of phased introduction approach, the multi-brand used car retail operation kick starts in five key markets in partnership with Ford’s existing dealers.” Ford India’s significant dealers such as Harpreet Ford in Delhi, Bhagat Ford in Chandigarh, KS Ford in Jaipur, Kairali Ford in Kochi and Planet Ford in Pune – will buy, recondition and sell a wide choice of Ford and other brand cars to customers under the trustworthy inspection and service commitment offered by Ford Assured. The Ford Assured multi-brand used car program is an opportunity for Ford to develop a closer connect with its existing and potential customers. Foreseeing a strong growth trend in the Indian new car market, Ford expects the positive momentum to influence and boost the used car industry. With Ford Assured, Ford India’s strategy is to allow its customers to exchange their existing Ford or other vehicles and benefit from the Blue Oval’s innovative loyalty incentives. Having visited the Ford Assured outlet at Harpreet Ford, Delhi, Nigel Wark, executive director - Marketing Sales and Service at Ford India said, "The demand for used cars has grown in India following the rising aspirations of the rapidly growing middle income customer group. Ford Assured allows us to offer our world class services to those who aspire to upgrade their vehicles as well as potential first-time used car buyers." Ford Assured offers the following incentives for customers, i.e.a stringent and world-class 169-point quality check, cars are reconditioned by Ford trained and highly experienced technicians Limited warranty of 1-year or upto 20,000 km on all car brands sold and innovative and convenient buying options on purchasing from and selling to Ford Assured. Additionally, Ford Assured offers complete peace of mind to customers with initial two services without labour charges on every vehicle purchased. The Ford Assured program is expected to ensure customer safety and satisfaction at all levels with an experience similar to buying a new car. The cars sold under the program will confirm to the highest quality standards. Additionally, customers will have the option to avail of Ford India's premium 24-hour Roadside Assistance Service (RSA) for all Ford cars sold under the program by purchasing RSA packs. The used car market in India has shown promising growth last year. The entry of automotive players in the segment and availability of easy financing have been the key growth drivers for the used car industry. Ford Assured outlets would tie-ups with major banks that will provide customers with easy finance options while purchasing their used cars. Ford India has been expanding its sales and service network nationwide in order to strengthen its service support. The company now has more than 170 sales and service centres across 100 cities in India.