Summary: (http://kamlashow.com/podcast/wp-content/uploads/FordMotorCompany_JoeHinrichs1-150x150.jpg)Asia's automobile market is the fastest growing one in the world with China and India leading the growth. Many are first time car buyers in two of the most populous nations of the world. Automobile companies are ramping up to meet that demand (http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2011/jun/07/ford-automotive-industry) for vehicles in India and China. For instance, for 2011 Ford Motor Company expects a growth rate in the range of 12-15 percent in India. Ford started its operations in China in 1993, and 2 years later in 1995 it established Ford India. Earlier this month Ford announced its plan (http://www.thehindu.com/business/companies/article2026770.ece)s (http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/07/business/07ford.html) to spend $72 million to expand its engine plant in the southern state of Tamil Nadu., India. And through its joint venture in China Ford plans to spend $350 million to build its first transmission plant (http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704816604576333261723096574.html). Ford started its operations in China in 1993, and 2 years later in 1995 established its presence in India. Joe Hinrichs talks about the marketing opportunities and business challenges in India and China. How different are these 2 countries when it comes to doing business? Hinrichs is group Vice-President and President, who heads Ford's operations and partnerships in Asia-Pacific & Africa region. He was previously Vice President of Global Manufacturing & Labor Affairs, and before that was CEO and President, Ford Canada. This interview was recorded at the 2011 International Auto Show in Detroit. Related Link: You can also watch a short (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7KLEVzsoqZs&feature=channel_video_title)video interview (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7KLEVzsoqZs&feature=channel_video_title) with Ford Motor Company's Joe Hinrichs. Disclosure: Ford Motor Company paid for my travel and accommodations at the 2-day Driving Green Technology event, I was not compensated in any other manner for my time. My opinions posted here are my own.
