Ford’s luxury automotive brand, Lincoln, will begin selling cars in China in the second half of 2014. The firm will begin meeting with dealers interested in becoming part of the automaker’s independent dealer network in China in the fourth quarter 2012.

With the luxury segment in China forecasted to surpass the United States’ by 2020, Ford is committing to an aggressive growth strategy. This effort is the company’s largest expansion efforts in 50 years. The sale of luxury vehicles is expected to rise to nine percent from its current six percent market share, which would be an increase of 50 percent. According to global automotive forecaster IHS Automotive, annual sales of luxury cars in China are expected to be approximately 2.7 million units in 2020.

"Globally, we're seeing a new generation of luxury clients who value more individualistic and tailored options," said Jim Farley, group VP, global marketing sales and service, Ford Motor Company. "In China, the emerging luxury buyers are younger and fast-changing, and they have a strong desire to understand and appreciate the heritage of a brand-the origins of its real values such as timeless elegance, sophistication and craftsmanship in Lincoln.”

A recent study of luxury car buyers conducted by market research firm TNS China entitled Targeting Luxury Car Drivers in China revealed that the nation’s consumers perceive luxury as being more than a product. The motivation behind the purchase is complex.

"Lincoln's introduction to China represents a significant step forward in Ford's aggressive growth strategy for the country," said Dave Schoch, chairman and CEO, Ford Motor China. "We are on track to deliver 15 new Ford-branded vehicles and 20 powertrains by 2015 to Chinese customers. With Lincoln, we will be expanding our product offering to cover China's fast-growing luxury car segment." For more information, visit Corporate.Ford.com.