Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, on Monday (July 20, 2026), requested Ford to resume its production and expansion activities in such a manner that it fully utilises its manufacturing facility at Maraimalai Nagar near Chennai.
A delegation led by Ford’s vice-president, Matthew Godlewski, held discussions with the Chief Minister at the Secretariat. According to a government press release, detailed consultations were held on the resumption of Ford’s manufacturing projects in Tamil Nadu, as well as the expansion of its Global Capability Centres.
Ford to reopen its Tamil Nadu plant to make vehicles for export
How India’s first integrated business city came up in Chennai after Ford started operations
Watch | Ford India rolls out last car from its Chennai plant
Ford is operating a Global Capability Centre in Chennai, and recently established another in Coimbatore. Engine production is also set to commence at the Maraimalai Nagar factory at an investment of ₹3,250 crore.
In this context, the Chief Minister recalled the 30-year relationship between Ford and Tamil Nadu, and assured the delegation that the government would extend cooperation to the company in implementing the projects.
Industries Minister S. Keerthana; Additional Chief Secretary, Industries, Investment Promotion and Commerce, S. Vijayakumar; and Ford managing director Simonetta Verdi, among others, were present at the meeting.
Published - July 21, 2026 01:33 pm IST