Ford Motor Company Announces Local Assembly of Transit for Domestic Sale

Starting early next year, the plant will assemble the Ford Transit, which will be sold domestically to meet customer demands for high-quality, reliable and affordable light commercial vehicles in Malaysia.

The Inokom facility has passed stringent evaluations and quality standards set by Ford Motor Company’s engineering and manufacturing teams, to ensure the plant meets Ford-certified specifications.

“This new collaboration with SDAC for local vehicle assembly builds on the strength of our long-term partnership and reaffirms Ford’s commitment to the Malaysian market,” said David Westerman, regional manager, Asia Pacific Emerging Markets Group, Ford Motor Company.

“Local assembly of the Transit will help build our strategic growth plan for Malaysia, and allow us to introduce another global Ford vehicle which will serve our customers with vehicles they want and value,” he added.

Introduction of the Transit will allow Ford to enter another new vehicle segment in the thriving Malaysian market and build on its expanding Ford line-up, which has driven overall sales up more than 75 percent this year and nearly doubled Ford’s market share.

“This collaboration for local assembly of the Transit is the latest proof point in our ongoing, successful partnership with Ford. It also represents our continued investment in the development and success of the Malaysian automotive industry,” said Dennis Ho, managing director, Sime Darby Motors, Malaysia region.

“The Transit is a perfect addition for commercial businesses that are seeking further advantages and efficiencies to support their growth,” added Ho.

As part of its commitment to investing in the communities where it conducts business, Ford is planning to donate the first Transit to roll off the assembly line to a charitable organisation in Kedah. Additional information will be released in the coming months.

The Ford Transit heads to Malaysia

A proven workhorse throughout Europe and Asia over the past five decades, the Ford Transit brings another quality, high value-for-money vehicle to the Malaysian market. As expected from a Ford vehicle, the Transit will set a new benchmark for durability and dependability.

The Transit is available in two variants – the 13-seat Bus Van 370L and the Panel Van 350L, both in high roof and powered by a 2.2L TDCi engine mated with a six-speed manual transmission. Offering an impressive carrying capacity, an array of versatile applications and particularly low running costs, the Transit aims to be the most efficient vehicle in its class.

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 180,000 employees and 65 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information about Ford and its products worldwide please visit www.corporate.ford.com.