Ford Partners with French Automaker to Revitalize Fiesta | Carscoops

      A new collaboration between Ford and Renault will lead to the development of two electric vehicles for the European market, utilizing Renault's Ampr platform.

      The anticipated Renault 5 may serve as inspiration for a new Fiesta model set to debut in 2028, alongside a future crossover.

      Both electric vehicles will be manufactured in France by Renault, incorporating distinct Ford design elements.

      Ford has discovered a pathway to regain entry into Europe’s budget small-car segment by leveraging one of Renault's most innovative concepts.

      The two companies have revealed a strategic partnership that will enable Ford to launch at least two electric vehicles in Europe, built on Renault’s Ampr EV platform, the same foundation used for the Renault 4 and 5.

      What Will Replace the Fiesta?

      One of Ford's forthcoming electric vehicles is likely to act as a spiritual successor to the Fiesta, which was discontinued in 2023 after eight generations and almost fifty years.

      This new electric supermini is expected to debut in early 2028 and will be produced alongside the Renault 5 at Renault’s ElectriCity facility in Douai, France.

      The second vehicle is anticipated to be a compact electric crossover derived from the Renault 4, possibly taking the place of the Puma Gen-E in the future.

      Given Ford's Explorer EV is built on VW’s ID.4 platform, it might have been expected that Ford would utilize the upcoming ID.Polo and ID.Cross’s MEB platform for its new small cars, yet the company opted to collaborate with Renault instead.

      Importantly, Ford is emphasizing that these will not be mere badge-engineered models. In contrast to the new Nissan Micra, which is essentially a re-skinned Renault 5, Ford asserts that its electric vehicles will be “distinct Ford-branded models” developed internally.

      Customers can expect unique designs, tailored interiors, and chassis tuning aimed at delivering the driving experience that Ford enthusiasts seek.

      However, beneath the surface, the shared electric vehicle components will remain the same. This likely means front-mounted motors producing 121 hp (122 PS / 90 kW) in standard versions and 215 hp (218 PS / 160 kW) for a revived Fiesta ST, along with battery options of 40 kWh and 52 kWh.

      Can This Revitalize Ford in Europe?

      For Ford, time is critical. With Focus production concluded, the Fiesta no longer in the lineup, and its Explorer and Capri electric SUV and crossover not meeting expectations, the brand's market share has significantly declined.

      An electric vehicle the size of the Fiesta, priced around the anticipated €25,000 (£22k/$29k) for the Renault 5, could be just what Ford needs to regain its foothold.

      Additionally, this partnership will likely yield more than just a new range of subcompact electric vehicles. The two companies are also contemplating collaborative efforts for new light commercial vehicles.