It’s rumored that Ford and Volkswagen have plans to expand their initial partnership into something more substantial. This time, they might start working on platforms and powertrains together.

The Ford and Volkswagen Partnership

During the summer of 2018, Ford and Volkswagen started a joint venture. They shared technology for commercial vehicles. At the time, there were also rumors that the companies planned to share their technology for small trucks. This joint platform was rumored to become the new generation of Amarok and Ranger mid-size pickup trucks.

Now, we find out that these rumors might become a reality. Earlier this year, VW registered the Amarok name in the United States signaling that this truck might be on the horizon. To make that happen, they’ll need a production location in the States.

Possible Merger?

We expect something big to happen, but we don’t know anything yet. Both companies stand to gain a lot from a partnership, or a possible merger as well. Ford and Volkswagen have minimal overlap between the two groups. Ford dominates the SUV and truck market in the United States while VW leads their sales with cars. On top of that, VW is strong in China, which is the largest auto market across the world. Ford, on the other hand, holds a strong demand in America.

As far as electric powertrains go, VW has superior technology while Ford doesn’t know where to begin. If the two companies worked together, they could save millions by sharing platforms and powertrains. Since most people don’t truly understand what’s under the hood of their car, it won’t hurt anything.

The question is: are we looking at a partnership or merger of the two. Everything seems to be possible at this point. Both of the companies have some recovering to do. Ford is enduring a multi-billion dollar restructuring and VW still suffers from Dieselgate.

Maybe we’ll see them join forces soon. We plan to release additional information as it becomes available.