Renault and Ford: An EV Power Couple? Building Budget EVs in Europe!

TL;DR: Ford and Renault are shacking up to build two new budget-friendly EVs for Europe! This means Ford's gonna borrow Renault's Ampere platform, and we might even see an electric Fiesta make a comeback. It's like a Hollywood rom-com, but with more kilowatts and less drama (hopefully).

Meta: Ford partners with Renault to produce two new affordable European EVs on the Ampere platform, possibly bringing back the electric Fiesta.

Alright, gather 'round, folks, because we got a classic tale of two automotive giants coming together for a common cause: to make affordable EVs for Europe! In a move that's got the industry buzzing like a beehive on caffeine, Ford has officially signed a deal with Renault to use the French company's Ampere platform for two new electric vehicles. These budget-friendly beauties are set to roll out in early 2028, and rumor has it, the legendary Fiesta nameplate might just be reborn as a pure EV! Can I get an amen?

This isn't just a casual handshake; it's a strategic alliance. Renault will be producing these new Fords, echoing Ford's previous arrangement with Volkswagen that gave us the Euro-spec Explorer and Capri. The big question is which Ampere platform they'll use – Small or Medium? This could mean one B-segment subcompact and one C-segment compact, or even two city cars, like Ford's version of the electric Renault 5 and 4 E-Tech models. Either way, it's about giving European buyers more options that won't make their wallets weep.

The Fiesta's Electric Comeback: A Hot Hatch Reboot?

The thought of an electric Fiesta is enough to make any hot hatch fan do a little dance. And get this: there's even a chance for an electric Fiesta ST, borrowing the Alpine A290's powertrain with 220 horsepower! Now that's what I call a glow-up! Battery packs will likely be shared with the Renault 5 and 4, offering 40 kWh for base models and a 52 kWh long-range variant, good for up to 255 miles (410 km) WLTP range. That's enough to get you across town and back, with juice to spare for a little joyride.

Ford CEO Jim Farley insists that these new models 'will combine Renault Group's industrial scale and EV assets with Ford's iconic design and driving dynamics to create vehicles that are fun, capable, and distinctly Ford in spirit.' So, they won't just be rebadged Renaults; they'll have that Blue Oval DNA, promising a driving experience that feels unmistakably Ford. It's like getting a new suit, but still having your favorite pair of sneakers underneath – comfort and style, baby!

A Desperate Attempt or Smart Strategy?

Some might call this a 'last-ditch attempt' for Ford to stay competitive against the flood of affordable Chinese EVs hitting Europe. And with Jim Farley openly stating, 'we are in a fight for our lives in our industry,' he ain't wrong. Outsourcing development and production to another manufacturer helps cut costs, a crucial move in today's cutthroat market. It's about keeping the Ford name on the European market, whatever it takes, and at minimum cost. Sometimes, you gotta play chess, not checkers, to stay in the game.

This partnership could also pave the way for Ford to focus its in-house EV development on higher-margin models, while securing a footprint in the essential budget EV segment. It's all about diversifying the portfolio and making sure they're appealing to every kind of buyer, from the luxury seeker to the budget-conscious commuter.

What’s Next

Keep an eye on early 2028 for the debut of these new Ford-Renault EVs. Their success will be a critical indicator of how legacy automakers can adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing EV landscape. If they can deliver genuinely fun, capable, and affordable electric cars, this partnership could be a blueprint for future collaborations. The European EV market is about to get a whole lot more interesting.

So, whether you're a Ford loyalist or a Renault fan, get ready for some exciting new electric rides. Because in the world of EVs, teamwork makes the dream work! You know what I'm talkin' 'bout!