Ford Accelerates in Europe with New EV Generation and Strategic Partnerships

The automotive giant unveils an ambitious plan for the continent, focusing on commercial vehicles, a new line of electrified passenger cars, and key alliances to redefine its presence in the European market.

Credit: Ford | Ford Accelerates in Europe with New EV Generation and Strategic Partnerships

Ford Motor Company is redefining its trajectory in the European automotive landscape with a multifaceted strategy designed to ensure profitability and agility amidst the industry's greatest transformation in a century. The plan, revealed in early 2026, signals a robust commitment to electrification, but with a pragmatic approach that balances innovation, affordability, and market realities.

The company's new roadmap rests on three fundamental pillars: the strengthening of its commercial vehicle division, **Ford Pro**; the launch of an exciting new generation of electrified passenger vehicles starting in 2028; and the optimization of its manufacturing structure to increase scale and reduce operational costs. This approach aims to position Ford not just as a participant, but as a leader in the new era of electric mobility on the continent.

The Electric and Hybrid Offensive

Unlike a purely electric approach, Ford has opted for a "multi-energy" strategy. The company plans to offer a range of vehicles that includes both 100% electric and hybrid models, allowing consumers to adopt electrification at their own pace. This decision reflects a careful reading of the European market, where the adoption of electric vehicles, while growing, still faces challenges such as charging infrastructure and acquisition costs.

Recent data shows that electric vehicles account for just over 16% of the total market in Europe, a figure that highlights the need for a more gradual and flexible transition. Ford bets that by offering diverse options, it will be able to serve a broader customer base, maintaining competitiveness in a rapidly changing scenario.

The new generation of passenger vehicles, scheduled to hit the market in 2028, promises to combine the brand's design DNA with cutting-edge technology and, crucially, more accessible prices. Flexibility will be key, with multi-energy platforms that can adapt to the different speeds of electrification adoption in each European country.

Ford Pro: The Engine of Commercial Growth

The **Ford Pro** division continues to be a pillar of success for the company in Europe, and the new strategy further deepens its role. Ford is transforming Pro from a simple vehicle seller into an integrated productivity ecosystem for commercial customers. The **FORDLiive Uptime** platform, for example, has already demonstrated its value by providing significant additional uptime for fleet operators in 2024, translating telemetry data into actionable intelligence for management and maintenance.

The focus on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which form the backbone of the European economy, is evident. Ford argues that the transition to electrification must be inclusive, offering solutions that do not economically penalize these businesses, which depend on the reliability and low operating cost of their commercial vehicles.

Strategic Alliances and Production Optimization

To enable this ambitious vision, Ford is strengthening its strategic partnerships. The collaboration with Volkswagen for the use of the MEB platform in the production of new EVs in Cologne, Germany, is a clear example of this approach. More recently, a new alliance with the **Renault Group** was announced, focused on sharing technologies for electric vehicles and the potential co-development of light commercial vehicles, seeking gains in efficiency and scale.

Simultaneously, Ford is optimizing its manufacturing footprint in Europe. The Halewood plant in the United Kingdom has received a substantial investment to produce electric drive units, while the Cologne center is establishing itself as a hub for electric vehicle production. These moves are crucial for building a leaner and more efficient EV supply chain.

A Call for Regulatory Action

Alongside its investments, Ford is also appealing to European lawmakers for a more balanced regulatory environment. The company advocates that CO₂ emission targets and electrification mandates must be aligned with the actual readiness of the consumer and the market. This includes creating consistent purchase incentives and developing a charging infrastructure that extends beyond major urban centers, reaching rural areas and supporting small businesses.

By combining product innovation, strategic partnerships, and an open dialogue on regulation, Ford charts a pragmatic and confident course to navigate the electric transition in Europe, seeking not only to adapt but to shape the future of mobility on the continent.

Ford Accelerates in Europe with New EV Generation and Strategic Partnerships