Report: Ford to Cease Platform Sharing, Leaving Mazda in the Lurch

[adminAF]

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The simultaneous introduction of the Ford Fiesta and Mazda2 at the LA Auto Show last week marks the end of a long history of platform sharing between Ford and Mazda. After two decades of collaboration, Ford has decided to develop vehicles separately from now on, according to Ford president Mark Fields.

In the past year Ford has continually reduced its involvement in Mazda, selling off much of its stake in the Japanese automaker (from 33 to just 11 percent), in order to avoid bankruptcy.

The news comes as a blow to Mazda as almost its entire product lineup is based on Ford products, the the Mazda3/CX-7 based on the Focus platform, the Tribute based on the Escape platfrom and the CX-9 based on the Ford Edge platform. Interestingly, however, Ford's popular Fusion sedan is based on the Mazda6 platform and the new Fiesta is based on the Mazda2.

Still, Mazda will now have to develop new platforms on its own, which some analysts have suggested it just isn't large enough to do. Mazda recently announced it would raise $1.1 billion for research into hybrid powertrains as it became obvious that Ford wasn't willing to share its new hybrid technology.

Ford does continue to hold a majority stake in Mazda and has said it will still work together with the Japanese automaker in certain areas – which may include both transmission and engine sharing. Ford did, after all, begin its business relationship with Mazda back in 1969 with a transmission sharing program.

More: Report: Ford to Cease Platform Sharing With Mazda, Leaving Japanese Automaker in the Lurch on AutoGuide.com

[Matsuda 9]

i thought that new focus and 9-3 saab was based on Mazda 3 platform - not the other way around.... i could be wrong...

well, at least (hopefully) we have some great platforms to look forward too such as SA, FC, BG, BA LA.... its good enough to have a look at fantastic SE platform.

give me CB and CD any day

don't know the codes, google

[Goliat6288]

maybe even a new 929, 626, or maybe even a new millenia. doubt it but u can always dream

[Matsuda 9]

we probably could see the flagship back

currently mazda is the only manufacturer that does not have a large and/or luxury sedan. so it could be ( not everyone wants to drive crossovers)