In a surprising turn of events, Ford is hinting at a potential comeback for the cherished Fiesta model, but this time in an all-electric form. Collaborating with Volkswagen, the American automaker refuses to rule out the possibility, although nothing is set in stone just yet.
Ford’s exit from the small car market in Europe dealt a blow to the Fiesta, rendering it economically unviable due to stricter emissions regulations. As a result, the model was discontinued on July 7. However, the manufacturing plant in Cologne, Germany, which previously produced the Fiesta, has undergone retooling to facilitate the production of electric vehicles on Volkswagen’s MEB platform.
Martin Sander, Ford’s head of passenger cars for Europe, acknowledged the potential for an electric equivalent to the Fiesta arising from the partnership with the German automaker. He expressed optimism about the “very constructive and positive cooperation” with Volkswagen and hinted at exploring opportunities to further enhance the collaboration.
While no definitive decisions have been made, Sander’s refusal to dismiss the idea altogether offers hope to devoted fans of the Ford Fiesta. Volkswagen already boasts a small car, the ID.3, built on the MEB platform and plans to introduce the even smaller ID.2 in the near future. The company aims to offer the VW Polo/Ford Fiesta-sized electric vehicle for less than €25,000 ($28,098 USD) at current exchange rates.
However, Sander emphasized that Ford’s primary focus lies in developing its second-generation electric vehicle platform and adapting it for the European market. Notably, he emphasized that Ford does not possess the same scale as Volkswagen or Stellantis in Europe, making it uninterested in producing vehicles exclusively for the continent.
Sander clarified, “It’s easy to spin off a derivative with very limited investment to cater to a specific region. That is clearly part of our plan. But we will not create a passenger vehicle solely for Europe.”
As part of their collaboration, Ford has already unveiled the all-electric Explorer in Europe, with another electric crossover based on the same platform in the pipeline. This forthcoming model promises a sportier driving experience for consumers.
