Ford will apply its rally experience to new electric and hybrid models
Image: Ford
Ford is returning to the FIA Rally World Championship starting in 2028 with a factory-supported team. Ford Racing will once again partner with M-Sport, which has been the manufacturer’s ally for around 30 years. Collaboration for this comeback is already underway.
The experience gained from the Rally World Championship will shape Ford’s next generation of passenger cars for Europe. Five new “Multi-Energy Models” with all-electric or hybrid powertrains are planned, designed to combine off-road capabilities with rally traditions. These new vehicles will be developed and produced in Europe.
"In rally racing, Ford’s character is put to the test under the harshest conditions. It also brings together several generations of fans who find excitement in seeing a car accomplish seemingly impossible things," said Jim Baumbick, President of Ford Europe. "Our next generation of passenger cars for Europe is designed to embody this uncompromising attitude: agile, predictable, and offering an excellent driving experience in every daily drive."
Ford Racing and M-Sport will compete together in the Rally World Championship starting in 2028. A fully new rally vehicle is scheduled to make its debut in 2029, with this competition car based on one of the upcoming European passenger car models.
You are currently viewing a placeholder content from YouTube. To access the actual content, click the “Unlock Content” button. Please note that data will be transmitted to third parties in this process.
More Information
Ford cites a history of over 50 years in the rally sport. Competition versions of the Escort, Sierra, Focus, Fiesta, and Puma were used during this time, and the U.S. manufacturer also won several manufacturer and driver world championships. Series models derived from rally versions include the Escort Mexico released in 1970 and the Ranger Raptor.
The return to the Rally World Championship is set to be accompanied by new series models developed for Europe. In designing these vehicles, Ford focuses on both road conditions and less ideal terrains in Europe. “Everything we learn there benefits our next generation of passenger cars,” says Baumbick, referring to the Rally World Championship.
“European roads reveal a car’s true qualities — that’s why the handling and driving characteristics of our future models are so crucial,” says Baumbick. “The Rally World Championship provides us with the ultimate testing ground for handling and driver engagement. Everything we learn there benefits our next generation of passenger cars.”
Also interesting
About the author
Thomas Langenbucher is an expert in electromobility with professional experience in the automotive industry and finance sector. Since 2011, he has been covering electric vehicles, sustainable technologies, and mobility solutions for ecomento.de. Learn more.
Reader interactions
