Ford to meet India's Tata, Mahindra: report

MUMBAI (Reuters) - Carmaker Ford Motor Co. (F.N), which is exploring the sale of its Jaguar and Land Rover brands, has contacted India's Tata Motors (TAMO.BO) and Mahindra & Mahindra (MAHM.BO) for management meetings, the Economic Times said on Tuesday.

Citing industry insiders, the newspaper said the meetings would be followed by detailed due diligence.

Ford, the No. 2 U.S. auto maker, said last month it would continue talks with selected suitors for the marques.

A source familiar with the matter said in July that Tata and its local rival Mahindra & Mahindra, as well as U.S. buyout firms TPG TPG.UL and Ripplewood, were among those that had expressed interest in a possible bid.

A spokesman for Tata Motors said: "We do not wish to comment." Mahindra & Mahindra could not be immediately reached.