Ford CEO Jim Farley announced "exciting plans for Europe" during an earnings call, signaling a major push to regain ground in a key market. The strategy involves launching new Ford-branded electric passenger vehicles engineered and built by Renault, utilizing Renault's Ampere-based small EV platform.
Ford's European operations have struggled due to the discontinuation of models like the Fiesta and Focus, leaving a gap in affordable segments. While its recent EVs used Volkswagen's architecture, they failed to generate needed momentum. The new partnership with Renault provides a fast track to market, with the first model—a potential Fiesta successor—targeting the B-segment in 2027. A second small crossover is expected to follow.
Production will occur at Renault facilities in France. Ford will apply its own design, tuning, and software to instill "Ford DNA," though the underlying platform remains Renault-sourced. In exchange, Ford will share its light commercial vehicle expertise with Renault for potential joint projects.
This 2027 launch is a critical test for Ford in Europe, requiring competitive pricing, solid range, and a modern user experience to reconnect with buyers and reverse its declining passenger car presence.