Renault Builds Two Electric Cars for Ford

Ford plans two new electric vehicles "Made in France": What the cooperation with Renault means for consumers and the battle against Chinese manufacturers.

US automotive giant Ford has agreed a partnership with French carmaker Renault to manufacture two affordable electric cars for European customers. The two Ford-branded electric car models, designed by Ford and developed with Renault, will be produced in Douai in Northern France, the companies announced.

The first of the two models is expected to go on sale in early 2028. The two new electric cars mark the first step in a comprehensive new product offensive by Ford in Europe. Despite the cooperation with Renault, both brands will remain clearly separate, according to the announcement.

Cooperation on Light Commercial Vehicles

In addition to the partnership agreement in the electric car sector, Ford and the Renault Group signed a memorandum of understanding for cooperation in the light commercial vehicle sector in Europe. The development and manufacture of light commercial vehicles for both brands is to be examined.

"The strategic partnership with the Renault Group is an important step for Ford and supports our strategy of building a highly efficient and sustainable business in Europe", said Ford CEO Jim Farley. "We have high expectations for the collaboration with Renault."

The aim is to pool resources and become faster and more efficient in the face of competition from China, Farley said at the presentation of the cooperation in Paris. "We know we have to fight for our survival in this industry, which is why we are here."

Call for more Flexibility in the Phase-out of Internal Combustion Engines

In the discussion about the so-called phase-out of internal combustion engines at the European level from 2035, Ford called for the targets to be adjusted to reality. Consumers should have the option of driving hybrid vehicles for longer – instead of a forced change for which they are not ready, said Ford's European chief Jim Baumbick.

"It's about making the transition more attractive and affordable for all consumers and businesses, stimulating demand rather than curbing it". Politicians must provide incentives to buy electric vehicles and ensure that charging infrastructure is available outside city centers in rural areas.

This is a partly automated translation of this German article by dpa.