Ford Australia chief Marin Burela is in drive for a greener Ford Territory and more fuel efficient power in its Landmark Falcon, believing that these are among the initiatives that will uphold the company's fortunes in Australia.

Mr Burela dismisses comments that the company's US parent has not supported the Australia division in an export plan, saying its research and technology allowed Australia to become an engineering centre for the company.

Ford is set to spend $230 million in so-called sustainable developments in Australia, including new clean diesel for its Territory sports utility vehicle and liquid LPG injection for the Falcon, which will reduce CO2 emissions by 12 per cent.

"If we were not integrated with the Ford world, then we would not have had the opportunity to use the four-cylinder ecobooster power train," he said.

"One Ford opened the door to connect to the efficient energy capability."

The Australia division has become a design and development centre with 900 engineers in a 4500-strong workforce. Vehicles and systems planned in Australia are manufactured in South Africa, Thailand and other countries.

Ford commemorates its 85th anniversary as a car maker today, the 50th year of the Falcon and 85th year as sponsor of the Geelong Cats Football team.

Mr Burela became president and chief operating officer for Australia after a lifetime career with Ford. His first job with the company was at Geelong, which is where the 50th anniversary of the Falcon will be celebrated tonight.