Ford and Geely have announced a cooperation agreement focused on the production of utility vehicles destined for the European market. This collaboration establishes that a factory unit located in Spain will be responsible for assembling the new models, utilizing engineering platforms developed by the Chinese automaker.
Structure and Project Development
The management of this operation will be supervised by Jim Baumbick, who is responsible for the regional division of Ford. Despite using shared architectures, Ford's internal guidelines require that each product line maintains its own development of visual identity and exclusive bodywork.
The industrial planning covers two projects that rely on Geely platforms. One of these projects will use the EX5 model architecture to replace the existing Kuga line. The second project aims to occupy the market niche previously served by the EcoSport.
Adaptations and Other Collaborations
The strategy also includes adapting the Bronco vehicle, which will start incorporating hybridization and electric systems supplied by the Chinese manufacturer. Additionally, the EX2 platform will be analyzed to enable the development of smaller models, similar to the old Ka and Fiesta.
Beyond the partnership with Geely, Ford maintains other alliances in the European automotive scene. The company continues to work together with Renault and Volkswagen on initiatives aimed at fleet electrification in the region.
Production Schedule and Pricing
The joint operation between Ford and Geely, as well as the functioning of the new industrial infrastructure in Spain, is scheduled to begin in the first half of 2027. According to the presented schedule, the first cars resulting from this partnership are expected to start coming off the assembly lines starting in 2028.
Although the official prices of the models jointly developed by Ford have not yet been disclosed, Geely's compact vehicles, such as the EX2/E2 models, which primarily target the European market, are being sold by importers with promotional offers starting from 19.9 thousand euros (equivalent to R$ 115.5 thousand) in entry-level versions, potentially reaching approximately 25 thousand euros (R$ 145.1 thousand) in the most complete configurations. The prices of the SUVs created in partnership between Ford and Geely will only be communicated when they are close to commercial launch.
