Ford China Sales Reach Record Figure

The first half of 2010 proved to be very lucrative for Ford's Chinese unit, as it posted its best ever first-half new vehicle sales. With an increase of 53 percent from a year ago and total sales of 301,524 units, Ford has all the reasons to look forward to a bright future in the region.

"The continued strong sales numbers are very rewarding for the entire Ford team, who are working hard to build great cars," said Robert Graziano, Ford Motor China CEO said in a statement.

"We are very pleased that more and more Chinese consumers are choosing the stylish, fuel-efficient, high quality vehicles Ford and our joint ventures offer in China."

The best selling Ford models in China were the Fiesta, with 38,669 units sold in the first six months of the year. The Focus sells around 10,000 units a month, proving to be a Chinese favorite, while Mondeo and S-MAX completed the great looking sales chart, with increases of 26 and 24 percent, respectively. In all, Ford's passenger car joint venture in China, Ford Mazda Automobile (CFMA), sold 46 percent more vehicles (205,563 units).

"Vehicle sales in China are expected to remain strong in the second half of 2010, with upgraded new products arriving this year, like the Ford Mondeo with 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost engine and PowerShift transmission, and the new Ford Edge featuring MyFord TouchTM driver connect technology," Graziano added.

''Our customers are very discerning and appreciate the great value our vehicles offer in terms of price and fuel economy. Chinese motorists also enjoy the fact that our products are fashionable and fun to drive. When Chinese customers experience our vehicles and services, they can feel the difference.”