Geely Eyes Ford’s Spain Plant to Enter Europe, Dodge EU Tariffs

Amid the European Union’s imposition of anti-subsidy tariffs of up to 37.6% on Chinese electric vehicles, Geely Holding Group is exploring a deep strategic partnership with U.S. automaker Ford Motor Company. According to multiple sources, Geely plans to leverage Ford’s underutilized plant in Spain—currently producing the Kuga SUV—for localized EV production. This move aims to circumvent the EU’s 19.9% tariff and enhance Geely’s price competitiveness and supply chain stability in the European market. The two companies also intend to share core technologies, including autonomous driving systems. For Ford, the collaboration would help keep the Spanish facility operational and preserve its local supply chain. For Geely, the partnership offers an opportunity to accelerate its global expansion by leveraging its mature technologies, such as the Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA), advanced electric powertrains, and high-speed Navigation on Autopilot (NOA) intelligent driving systems. This cooperation marks a significant step as automakers seek new pathways amid escalating global trade barriers, integrating complementary technologies and utilizing excess manufacturing capacity to navigate an increasingly fragmented market landscape.