---

Ford to Assemble Vehicles in Colombia

28 July 1999

Ford to Assemble Vehicles in Colombia

    BOGOTA, Colombia, July 27 -- Ford Motor Company
announced today that the company will begin assembly of the Ford Laser in
Bogota, Colombia.  This becomes the first vehicle that Ford Motor assembles in
this Country as a result of a strategic alliance with Mazda Corporation.
    "This strategic agreement will help Mazda and Ford strengthen their
position in both countries by making better use of capacity at our production
facilities and will increase customer satisfaction levels of both brands,"
said Martin Inglis, President of Ford Automotive Operations for South America.
    "Although these are difficult times in most of the Andean countries, Ford
Motor Company is confident that, in the short- to mid-term, these markets will
become more stable, and in particular we are placing a lot of trust in the
Colombian people and the recovery of its economy," added Mr. Inglis.
    "We have been working very hard in the last few years with positive
results.  This is an indication that we are building a solid company to ensure
continuous customer satisfaction.  We will continue to consolidate our efforts
in Colombia to achieve sustainable growth," said Enmanuel Cassingena,
President of Ford Andina Operations.
    Laser, Ford's first model to be assembled in Colombia, will be offered in
three different versions: a 1.3 liter LX, a 1.3 liter GLX and a 1.6 liter GLX
Ghia.  "The Laser has proven to be an excellent vehicle around the world, with
outstanding reliability and customer satisfaction," Inglis said.