In 2009, Russian car sales plummeted by fifty percent after the worldwide economic crisis dried up access to credit and slammed the brakes on demand. Two years later, however, the market has curved upward with sales growth as high as 30 percent and Ford is latching on to this economic climb. Currently the Ford Transit van and Ford Explorer are Russia's best-sellers. Through collaboration with Russian player Sollers, Ford will move production of these two models into the country as early as 2012.

Ford-Sollers CEO Ted Cannis said, "The government is being very proactive with its auto industry, which doesn't always happen. It is trying to construct a business, bringing in expertise, infrastructure and experience." Cannis also remarked that the Russian market shows a fair amount of stability. While the Association of European Businesses forecasts auto sales to be 2.45 million by the end of the year, he predicts that number to be even higher.

In addition to the high-demand market Russia offers, the country's government plans to present the auto industry with financial incentives towards hybrids in order to alleviate dependence on expensive fossil fuels. Free import tariffs on parts also help position the nation as an ideal target for Ford production.

To test drive new Ford models available right here at home, visit Jerry's Ford Alexandria, conveniently located at 6510 Little River Turnpike Alexandria, VA. In order to schedule a time that works for you feel free to contact us online or give a call at (888) 348-9476.  Also, be sure to stay tuned for more Ford-related news!

Source: ¹http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/10/01/us-ford-russia-idUSTRE7901CL20111001