Overview
- Ford this week announced a Europe‑focused plan to launch five new passenger models built for the region by the end of 2029, including a small battery electric car to take the place of the discontinued Fiesta.
- Company statements and multiple reports say the small EV will use Renault’s Ampere (AmpR) small‑car architecture under a cooperation agreed in December 2025, but final technical specs and the vehicle name remain unconfirmed.
- Journalists report the Ford models are likely to be assembled at Renault’s ElectriCity complex in northern France, though Ford has not publicly confirmed the factory choice.
- Renault’s AmpR Small hardware offers 27.5, 40 and 52 kWh battery options, roughly 260–410 km range and 50–100 kW DC charging capacity, which frames likely performance and positioning for Ford’s small EV if Ford adopts higher battery and power variants.
- Ford used the product announcement to press European regulators for more gradual CO₂ targets, stronger charging infrastructure, legal recognition of plug‑in hybrids and protections for small businesses, a stance that could affect industry compliance costs and dealer support for the transition.