Ford will produce a new compact SUV at its Almussafes facility near Valencia, using the GEA platform developed by Chinese automaker Geely. The decision follows an agreement between the two companies to revive a plant whose production lines have dwindled in recent years.
Ford describes the upcoming model as a rally-inspired crossover. It will be available with hybrid and fully electric powertrains, both supported by Geely’s flexible GEA architecture. Ford has not revealed the vehicle’s name or full specifications, but says its design will distinguish it from existing Geely models despite sharing core components.
For the Almussafes workforce, the announcement brings a rare dose of optimism. The plant, once a major part of Ford’s European operations, has lost four models from its production roster in recent years: the Mondeo, S-MAX, Galaxy, and Transit. Until now, only the Kuga remained in production, leaving the factory running at a fraction of its capacity.
Geely chairman An Conghui said Ford will use the GEA platform for its new European SUV, Automotive News reported. The platform also underpins several Geely vehicles, including the all-electric EX5 and the plug-in hybrid Starray, already available in Spain.
The first Geely model expected to roll off the Almussafes line is the EX2, a fully electric SUV. More models are planned. The collaboration is structured as a joint venture, with Ford holding a 66% stake and Geely Auto owning 34%. Both companies say the partnership will make the Valencia plant a high-tech, shared manufacturing hub, with resources optimized and greater job security for the region’s skilled automotive workforce.
Ford’s new rally-inspired SUV will be produced alongside a future Bronco model, scheduled for launch in 2028. The Bronco will use a different platform. Geely has also confirmed plans to manufacture two new energy vehicles at the Spanish site, with the first expected to enter production in 2028. The joint venture aims to deliver three multi-energy Ford vehicles, though further details remain under wraps.
In recent years, Almussafes has faced impressive challenges, including four rounds of layoffs between 2020 and 2024. The workforce now stands at around 4,300 employees. The new partnership is seen as a strategic move to stabilize employment and secure the plant’s future.
The deal fits a broader shift in the automotive industry, as traditional manufacturers work with technology-driven partners to accelerate electrification. Similar moves have taken place elsewhere, including Mercedes-AMG’s push into electric performance vehicles, as detailed in this recent report on the electric AMG GT 4-Door.
Industry observers say the Ford-Geely alliance could offer a model for other European plants facing underutilization and pressure from the electric transition. For Valencia, the partnership creates an chance to redefine the plant’s role in the next era of car manufacturing.
