Tata Motors buys Jaguar Land Rover from Ford

With the economy slowing down and a recession looming, luxury vehicle sales have slowed dramatically within the last three years. That's why Ford Motor Company's recent announcement to sell its Jaguar Land Rover operations to Tata Motors did not come as a complete surprise to industry insiders.

The transaction is the culmination of Ford's decision last August to explore strategic options for the Jaguar Land Rover business, as the company accelerates its focus on its core Ford brand and "One Ford" global transformation. The sale is expected to close by the end of the next quarter and is subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of applicable regulatory approvals.

"Jaguar and Land Rover are terrific brands," says Alan Mulally, president and CEO of Ford Motor Company. "We are confident that they are leaving our fold with the products, plan and team to continue to thrive under Tata's stewardship. Now, it is time for Ford to concentrate on integrating the Ford brand globally, as we implement our plan to create a strong Ford Motor Company that delivers profitable growth for all."

The total amount to be paid in cash by Tata Motors for Jaguar Land Rover upon closing will be approximately $2.3 billion. At closing, Ford will then contribute up to approximately $600 million to the Jaguar Land Rover pension plans.

"This is a good agreement. It provides the Jaguar Land Rover management team and employees with the assurances needed to maintain their focus on delivering the best results for the business," adds Lewis Booth, executive vice president of Ford Motor Company, who has responsibility for Ford of Europe, Volvo and Jaguar Land Rover. "I am confident that, under its new owner, Jaguar Land Rover will continue to build upon the significant improvements and product successes it has achieved in recent years."

As part of the transaction, Ford will continue to supply Jaguar Land Rover for differing periods with powertrains, stampings and other vehicle components, in addition to a variety of technologies, such as environmental and platform technologies. Ford also has committed to provide engineering support, including research and development, plus information technology, accounting and other services.

In addition, Ford Motor Credit Company will provide financing for Jaguar and Land Rover dealers and customers during a transitional period, which can vary by market, of up to 12 months.

The parties believe these arrangements will support Jaguar Land Rover's current product plans, while providing Jaguar Land Rover freedom to develop its own stand-alone capabilities in the future that will best serve its premium manufacturer requirements.

The parties do not anticipate any significant changes to Jaguar Land Rover employees' terms of employment on completion.

"We are very pleased at the prospect of Jaguar and Land Rover being a significant part of our automotive business," says Ratan N. Tata, chairman of Tata Sons and Tata Motors. "We have enormous respect for the two brands and will endeavor to preserve and build on their heritage and competitiveness, keeping their identities intact. We aim to support their growth, while holding true to our principles of allowing the management and employees to bring their experience and expertise to bear on the growth of the business."

Jaguar Land Rover's employees, trade unions and the U.K. Government have been kept informed of developments as the sale process progressed and have indicated their support for the agreement.

Geoff Polites, chief executive officer of Jaguar Land Rover, says: "Jaguar Land Rover's management team is very pleased that Ford and Tata Motors have come to an agreement. Our team has been consulted extensively on the deal content and feels confident that it provides for the business needs of both our brands going forward.

"We have also had the opportunity to meet senior executives from Tata Motors and the Tata group," Polites adds. "They have expressed confidence in the team that has delivered significant improvements in Jaguar Land Rover's business performance. We feel confident that we can forge a strong working relationship with our new parent company, and we look forward to a bright and successful future for Jaguar Land Rover."

For more information about the Ford Motor Company, visit its Web site.