The Ford Kuga successor is expected to feature Geely’s flexible technology.
Image: Ford (illustrative)
According to a report, Ford plans to introduce a new flagship crossover by 2029 that will serve as the successor to the Ford Kuga. The vehicle is expected to stand out especially through a design influenced by the company’s rally heritage.
The redesign of Europe’s model lineup is carried out through strategic partnerships. While a collaboration with Renault involves small electric vehicles, the development of the new Kuga is based on a partnership with Chinese manufacturer Geely. In Valencia, Spain, the two companies have established a joint venture set to begin operations in 2027. According to Auto Express, this facility will develop and produce three vehicles using a shared architecture.
The production line in Valencia is set to produce the first of two electric SUVs made by Geely by the end of 2028. The new Ford Kuga is expected to launch the following year as a “spectacular crossover-SUV” with oversized wheel arches and “aggressive” air intakes, drawing inspiration from Ford’s rally heritage. “We are launching with a product offensive that includes an exciting and unmistakable Ford vehicle portfolio inspired by rallying,” Auto Express quoted Jim Baumbick, president of Ford Europe, as saying.
The new crossover is expected to use Geely’s updated Global Intelligent New Energy Architecture (GEA). This platform already serves as the basis for the all-electric Geely EX5 and the plug-in hybrid Geely Starray E-Mi, which the Chinese brand is introducing in Europe. The architecture offers flexibility through front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive, along with a 400-volt system featuring DC charging capability (also for plug-in hybrids).
According to Auto Express, the joint venture in Valencia is adopting a strategy that includes various types of propulsion systems. In addition to electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids and electric cars equipped with a compact combustion engine acting as a range extender are also planned. The new structure in Spain is intended to improve cost structures. By jointly sourcing components and leveraging Geely’s battery supply chain, Ford aims to achieve lower selling prices. The goal is to realize the lowest possible costs in developing specific products for the European market through economies of scale.
"We will start with electric vehicles first, but there are also range extenders and plug-in hybrids. We believe that a comprehensive portfolio of solutions is crucial for achieving net zero in the long term," said Baumbick. The design of the Kuga is set to differ significantly from Geely’s other models. The Europe head emphasized, "Don’t worry, the Ford product will have a completely unique structure. This isn’t just a superficial makeover."
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Thomas Langenbucher is an expert in electromobility with experience in the automotive and financial industries. Since 2011, he has been covering electric cars, sustainable technologies, and mobility solutions for ecomento.de. Learn more.
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