Ford and Renault Join Forces for Affordable European EVs

Ford and Renault are joining forces to build affordable electric cars for the European market. "We know we're in a fight for our lives," said Ford CEO Jim Farley about the growing threat from Chinese competitors. The first models are expected in 2028 — and that could be good news for Dutch buyers.

The partnership in brief

On December 9, 2025, Ford and Renault announced a strategic partnership:

What:

• Two Ford models built on Renault's Ampere platform
• Production in Northern France
• Electric successor to the Ford Fiesta
• Compact electric crossover (similar to Renault 4)

When:

• First model expected early 2028

Why:

• Ford's European market share dropped from 6.1% (2019) to 3.3% (2025)
• Chinese EVs offer more for less money
• Economies of scale through partnership

Why this partnership?

Ford CEO Jim Farley was clear in his explanation: "We know we're in a fight for our lives in this industry." And the numbers prove it:

• Ford's European market share nearly halved in 6 years
• Chinese brands like BYD and MG are growing explosively
• Affordable EVs under €30,000 are crucial for mass sales

Renault CEO François Provost added: "The Chinese will come soon and that's why I don't want to wait."

What can we expect?

1. Electric Ford Fiesta

The Ford Fiesta was one of Europe's most popular cars for years. An electric successor could have enormous impact on the affordable EV segment.

Expectations:

• Compact dimensions, ideal for city use
• Price point around €25,000-30,000 (expected)
• Based on proven Ampere technology

2. Compact electric crossover

The second model will be a small SUV, similar to the Renault 4 E-Tech. This segment is growing rapidly in Europe.

Expectations:

• Slightly larger than the Fiesta successor
• Practical crossover characteristics
• Competition for Peugeot e-2008 and Opel Mokka-e

What does this mean for the Netherlands?

More affordable options in 2028

For Dutch buyers waiting for an affordable EV, this is good news. The current market already offers options:

Affordable EVs available now	Starting Price	Range
Dacia Spring	€22,550	225 km
Citroën ë-C3	€24,290	320 km
MG4 Standard	€29,990	350 km

With Ford/Renault's new models in 2028, this segment will only grow.

Company car tax perspective

For business drivers who can wait until 2028: affordable EVs mean lower company car tax. An electric Fiesta around €27,000 would result in:

• Annual tax (22%): €5,940
• Monthly tax: €495 gross

That's significantly lower than many current options.

Context: Ford's existing EV strategy

Ford already works with Volkswagen for EV production in Europe. This new Renault partnership is complementary:

• Volkswagen partnership: Ford already produces two EV models on VW platform
• Renault partnership: Focuses on smaller, affordable models
• No merger: Both CEOs emphasize this is a partnership, not a merger

Future outlook

The Ford-Renault partnership fits a broader trend of European automakers joining forces against Chinese competition. For Dutch buyers, this means:

1. More choice — More brands offer affordable EVs
2. Lower prices — Economies of scale reduce production costs
3. European production — Jobs stay in Europe

Need an affordable EV now?

Can't wait until 2028? Check current options:

• Cheapest electric cars
• Compare EVs under €35,000
• Calculate what fits your budget

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This article is based on reporting from Electrek and Ford Media Center.