Ford and Volkswagen confirm commercial vehicle partnership

Ford and Volkswagen have this week announced a manufacturing alliance that will see the two carmaking giants combine forces to develop commercial vehicles and pick-ups that will begin to hit international showrooms as early as 2022.

It has been confirmed that as part of the Global Alliance, Ford will engineer and build a medium-sized pick-up for both companies as well as a larger commercial van for European customers.

Meanwhile, Volkswagen intends to develop and build a city van.

While the Alliance has not divulged specifics, it is expected that Ford will handle the development of the next-generation Volkswagen Amarok and Ford Ranger, and a new Volkswagen van based on its Transit is also a strong possibility.

Volkswagen also has the Transporter and Caddy van nameplates to draw on, which could serve as a future platform for a smaller Ford-badged commercial vehicle.

The Global Alliance does not include cross-ownership, and will be governed by a joint committee headed by Volkswagen CEO Dr Herbert Diess and Ford CEO Jim Hackett.

As part of the Alliance, the pair have also signed a memorandum of understanding to investigate collaboration on autonomous, electric and mobility service vehicles.

Both companies also confirmed that they would consider additional vehicle programs in the future.

According to Mr Hackett, the collaboration will not only streamline manufacturing efficiencies, but will help the collective companies realise the future of mobility.

"Over time, this alliance will help both companies create value and meet the needs of our customers and society," he said.

"It will not only drive significant efficiencies and help both companies improve their fitness, but also gives us the opportunity to collaborate on shaping the next era of mobility."

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