Moscow motor show 2012: Ford Kuga will be Russian-built

The new Ford Kuga will be built in Russia as part of the joint venture between Ford and Russian firm Sollers.

The new Ford Kuga, presented at the Moscow motor show by Ford of Europe's design chief Martin Smith, was confirmed for production in Russia by Ford at the show.

The Ford-Sollers joint venture started with production of the Transit at a plant in Elabuga. More than 5000 Transits have been built there since the start of the year. 

Production of the Ford S-Max, Ford Galaxy and Explorer are also planned at the plant as part of the joint venture.

Sales of the current Kuga and Explorer are already up 85 per cent this year in Russia, and it is hoped that figure will increase further with local production. Engines are also planned to be manufactured as part of the the tie-up.