Ford Ikon Flair to replace the Ambassador as government staff cars

Mumbai: Ford India has signed a landmark deal with the Directorate General of Supplies and Disposals (DGS&D), the central purchase and quality assurance organisation of the Union Government, which has approved the use of the Ford Ikon Flair by all government departments across the country with immediate effect.

That means the ubiquitous Hindustan Motor's Ambassador is out, replaced by an aging, but contemporary model from Ford. Moreover, since the Ambassador's sales have not been anything to write home about, it may well be curtains for the longest running production car.

The Ikon shall be available to government departments at a special rate and is an endorsement of the superiority of the Ikon as a preferred sedan in the entry level midsize segment, Ford said in a statement.

Ford had recently announced expansion plans for India. Ford India has seen some business with the government previously, having supplied its popular SUV Endeavour and the sedan Fiesta to various government and public sector undertakings across various Indian states.

The Ikon largely appeals to corporate clients, young individuals, and private organisations, and Ford says that this approval by the DGS&D marks a significant achievement for the Ikon as it opens out to yet another segment for the car.

Scott McCormack, vice president - Marketing, Sales and Service, Ford India said, "Fleet sales operations form an integral part of our aggressive sales program. The approval by the DGS&D is great news and endorses the popularity and the quality of the Ikon. We are committed to keep the product appealing to new consumer segments with on-going value adds and features to meet the changing consumer needs."

Ford Ikon, appeals to a wide range of audiences for its stylish looks, fuel economy, driving dynamics and affordability. With its responsive ROCAM engine, front and rear power windows, power steering and plush beige interiors, the Ikon Flair, is great value for money offering in the segment and continues to be the second largest selling car in Ford India's line up after the Ford Fiesta.

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