Ford to Build Next European SUV on Geely’s GEA Platform at Valencia Plant in Spain

Ford has confirmed that its next European SUV will ride on Geely’s Global Intelligent New Energy Architecture (GEA) platform and will be assembled at the company’s Valencia plant in Spain. The move is part of a joint venture between Ford and Geely, finalized on July 23, 2026, with Ford holding a 66 percent stake and Geely 34 percent. The GEA platform is designed to support battery-electric, plug-in hybrid, and range-extended powertrains, giving Ford access to a modular architecture capable of underpinning multiple electrified powertrains. The Valencia facility will be transformed into a low-emissions vehicle hub for European markets, with production slated to begin in 2028. The first model to roll off the line will be a compact SUV from the Bronco family, positioned near the center of Ford’s compact range in Europe. Two additional Geely Auto models will also be produced at the plant. The partnership leverages Geely’s expertise in multi-energy vehicles while allowing Ford to share development costs and accelerate its European electrification strategy. Ford has emphasized that the new models will feature its own styling, tuning, and software, avoiding simple rebadging. The compact Bronco’s role in Ford’s lineup remains unclear, particularly whether it will replace or coexist with the Kuga. However, the move aligns with Ford’s plan to launch seven new models in Europe by 2029, as outlined in its ‘Ford Is Launching Seven New Vehicles In Europe’ roadmap. The Valencia plant, which has a long history with Ford—including producing the Focus successor as a crossover—will now focus exclusively on low- and zero-emissions vehicles under the joint venture. Industry observers see this as a pragmatic shift for Ford, prioritizing speed and scale over in-house engineering. The critical question is whether a Geely-based Ford will retain the brand’s identity in showrooms and on the road.