After rumours that the two manufacturers were considering manufacturing collaboration back in February, Ford and Geely have now confirmed an agreement to form a joint venture at Ford’s Valencia factory in Spain, with the Chinese manufacturer set to build two of its own electric SUVs at the plant from 2028. The agreement marks one of the most significant China-Europe manufacturing tie-ups this year, with Ford set to hold a 66% stake in the new joint venture, while Geely holds the other 33%.
Geely plans to produce two electric SUVs at the site, which will be its first European-built models under the partnership, with production starting in 2028. The move accelerates the company’s European expansion, and will also allow these models to skirt higher EU tariffs currently applied to vehicles produced in China.
The collaboration between Ford and Geely goes further, with Ford also set to launch a new Bronco model alongside a ‘multi-energy’ family crossover, with the latter presumably including the option of an electric powertrain. These models will be badged as Fords but but jointly developed alongside Geely, whose expertise in EV technology and low-cost manufacturing should prove a significant advantage in bringing the vehicles to market.
This is not the first partnership Ford has forged with another manufacturer. The company already builds its Explorer and Capri EVs on Volkswagen’s MEB platform, and has partnered with Renault for future small electric models (which could see the Ford Fiesta return in EV form).
Alex Nan, Vice President of Geely Auto Group, commented:
“This JV with Ford in Europe reflects our commitment to open, collaborative product development as part of our growth strategy, deepening our local presence and commitment to customers in Europe. We are dedicated to delivering vehicles that European customers will choose on merit: on industry leading features, on high-quality and on actively contributing to Europe’s green future. Put simply: we are building cars in Europe, for Europe, alongside a trusted partner.”
Jim Baumbick, President of Ford of Europe, added:
“For nearly 50 years, Valencia has built some of the most-loved cars in our history, and now this team will help build our future. That’s why we’re building a flexible, cost-effective industrial system with a capable partner in Geely Auto. Together we can fully utilize a best-in-class plant with a great workforce and match the industry’s new cost benchmark. This is all part of Ford’s vision to give European drivers rally-bred handling, true off-road capability and multi-energy technology, with a distinct Blue Oval DNA.”
