From the moment Ford and Volkswagen announced their partnership to develop new vehicles together nearly three years ago, industry insiders knew something special was in the works. And now, with Ford’s VW-based electric crossover for Europe just days away from its debut, that anticipation has reached a fever pitch. In a recent interview with Automotive News Europe, Volkswagen Group CEO Oliver Blume disclosed that the company’s partnership with Ford is becoming more ‘intense’.
Two months after Ford’s announcement of its intention to reduce its reliance on VW’s EV technology, Blume weighed in on the matter. Ford’s Blue Oval is taking a strategic step towards launching EVs in Europe by investing in its proprietary electric platform and tapping into Volkswagen’s MEB architecture. As part of its commitment to reduce emissions, Ford has announced that it will only offer electric vehicles in Europe by 2030, with models based on its proprietary platform expected to debut in the second half of the decade.
Despite Ford’s increased focus on developing its own EV technology, the company is still collaborating with the German automaker on other projects. The partnership between Ford and Volkswagen has previously involved the development of trucks and light commercial vehicles. Volkswagen’s latest Amarok pickup utilizes the platform of the new Ford Ranger, but VW has tailored it to have its distinctive look. The two car manufacturers are exploring electric alternatives for the model.
As part of their partnership, Ford and VW jointly invested in Argo AI, a company focused on developing autonomous vehicle technology. However, the company disbanded in October, leading Ford and VW to hire a large number of Argo’s employees to continue developing the technology themselves.
The first MEB-based model from Ford will be revealed on March 21. It will compete against Volkswagen’s ID.4 in the same segment, and Ford has created a unique appearance for the vehicle. It’s uncertain if the car will come equipped with VW’s infotainment system or Ford’s SYNC setup. But, Ford’s infotainment technology is present in the Ford-based Amarok.
A boxy crossover with rough styling cues has been previewed in a few teasers, although its powertrain specifics are unknown. It will probably share parts with VW. The carmaker is also working on a second MEB-based EV called the “Sport Crossover,” which will be the ID. 5’s counterpart. Blue revealed that the two automakers are only beginning their “cooperation project.” However, Ford’s electric vehicle-based lineup will come at a cost as the Fiesta and Focus models will be phased out by 2023 and 2025, respectively.
