Ford's next compact SUV for the European market may be designed to look rugged and rally-ready in a way that's associated with American cars, but it is expected to be built on a platform from Chinese automaker Geely, according to Carscoops.
Ford has released few details about the model, which will use Geely's Global Intelligent New Energy Architecture. The collaboration is a strong indication of the two companies' expanding partnership, with production of the vehicle to take place at a Ford factory in Spain.
The partnership also illustrates how major carmakers are increasingly teaming up with new companies known for their electric vehicle technology to bring low-pollution vehicles to market faster and at lower cost.
Here's what to know
According to Carscoops, the new model is expected to be a compact crossover designed for "multi-energy" drivetrains, which suggests buyers will be able to choose between hybrid and fully electric versions.
The companies reportedly struck a deal in July to allow Geely to build vehicles at an existing Ford plant in Valencia. That plant has been operating at less than 25% of its output capacity for years, according to Carscoops.
Geely is expected to kick off its production at the plant with the all-electric EX2, with other models to follow.
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An Conghui, chairperson for Geely Auto Group, said in a recent earnings call that Ford's upcoming model will be based on his company's GEA platform. That same architecture already supports several Geely vehicles, including the battery-electric EX5 and the plug-in hybrid Starray, per Carscoops.
While details remain sparse, Ford has said the new SUV will feature "rally-bred" styling, signaling that the company is seeking to visually distinguish itself from Geely.
More background
Using shared platforms can cut development time and lower costs while making it easier for companies to offer more body styles and powertrain options.
Geely has said it expects the first vehicles to come off the line in 2028. Carscoops reported that Geely intends to build two new-energy models at the factory, while the venture is expected to turn out three Ford-branded multi-energy vehicles.
Ford is also expected to launch a Bronco-branded SUV around 2028, but that vehicle is slated to use a different platform.
Because EVs do not require oil changes and contain fewer wear-prone components than gas-powered cars, buying one can save you money on the cost of maintenance as well as fuel.
Pairing up to overcome challenges
Ford and Geely both stand to benefit from the partnership. While Ford gets access to a flexible vehicle architecture that can support both hybrids and EVs, Geely gains a stronger manufacturing foothold in Europe.
That kind of flexibility could help Ford respond more quickly to shifting consumer demand. The strategy could keep prices competitive by spreading development costs across multiple models.
"This strategic cooperation with Ford is an important step towards open collaboration and is mutually beneficial to both parties," Alex Nan, Geely Auto Group vice president, said.
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