Ford’s joint venture in Russia has started production of the new Mondeo at its Vsevolohsk Plant close to St. Petersburg.
“Ford Sollers is continuing to invest in expanding the Ford vehicle portfolio in Russia and to modernise our production facilities,” said Ford Sollers president and CEO, Ted Cannis.
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“The start of production today of the Mondeo is more proof of our commitment to bring the latest Ford models to our Russian customers.
“While in the short term, Russia remains an extremely volatile and challenging market, we believe the market likely has significant potential in the longer term.
“This is why this year alone Ford Sollers is launching at least four more new Ford models, including the all-new Ford Mondeo, new Ford Focus and the new Ford Fiesta.”
The launch of the Ford Mondeo follows modernisation of Ford Sollers’ Vsevolozhsk Plant designed to enable it to improve its ability to manufacture advanced Ford vehicles.
The investment includes substantial new production equipment, increased automation, and production process enhancements such as improved production ergonomics.
The body shop has been fitted with a robotised main conductor capability, while a laser cabin has been installed and pneumatic equipment for the workstations.
Ford says the Mondeo has been tailored for Russian customers and is adapted for cold climactic conditions.
It comes with a winter package which includes an electric windshield defroster, electrically heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel and windshield washer system.
The Mondeo’s ground clearance has been raised by 12mm to meet Russian road conditions, but special attention was paid to the suspension adjustments and braking efficiency.
Russian customers can buy the Mondeo sedan in four specification levels and with three EcoBoost gasoline engines.
