A potential partnership between Ford and Chinese automaker Geely could be on the horizon, according to a report from Reuters. The talks, which involve eight people with knowledge of the discussions, focus on the possibility of Geely using some of Ford's European factory space to build cars for the region.
This could include a potential framework for shared vehicle technologies, including automated driving. Ford CEO Jim Farley has expressed praise for the Chinese auto industry in the past, and this deal could allow the brand to utilize underused factory space while retooling its EV plans.
Geely already owns or part-owns several European brands, including Volvo, Polestar, Lotus, and Smart, as well as a number of Chinese brands such as Geely Auto, Lynk & Co, and Zeekr. By building cars in Ford's European factory space, Geely could potentially avoid EU tariffs on imported vehicles.
This strategy has already been implemented by other Chinese brands in Europe, but an alliance between Geely and Ford would be the highest-profile manufacturing deal to date. The potential partnership highlights the growing importance of international collaborations in the automotive industry, as companies seek to optimize production and reduce costs.
As the global market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how this development plays out and what benefits it could bring to both parties involved.
A strategic partnership between Ford and Geely would likely benefit both parties by allowing them to optimize their manufacturing operations and share resources. By leveraging Ford's European factory space, Geely can reduce its production costs and increase efficiency, while also gaining access to a more established market. This could be a win-win situation for both companies, particularly as the automotive industry continues to shift towards electric vehicles and autonomous driving technologies.
