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In an interview with Autocar, Ford chairman Bill Ford has outlined company plans to return to the mainstream car industry in Europe. A new Focus-sized crossover is the first step in a radical rethink of its game plan.

Following unveiling of a platform for affordable EVs in the US, Ford is expected to follow up soon with details of how it will expand and electrify its European range, emphasising its commitment to remaining an important player in the region’s car market.

With Focus runout and Saarlouis closure both due in November, the company’s car line-up is far more expensive than it has been at any point in its 122-year history. But a wide-reaching shake-up of European business is intended to restore it to a mass-market volume player, while boosting its electric vehicle sales mix with more affordable models.

The company will put a stake in the ground in 2027 with the launch of a mid-sized crossover to fill the gap left by Focus. With an annual capacity of 300,000 units at its planned Valencia home, the new crossover could become one of Ford’s best-selling model lines globally.
Read the Autocar interview with Bill Ford

Franz Obladen, a widely respected and admired servant of the Systems Office died in July 2025. His 34 years career from 1968 to 2002 included many management roles, including Ford systems coordinator of the joint venture with Volkswagen at Setubal in Portugal.

He served two terms as manager of the Cologne data centre. The second ended as he retired in 2002.

In retirement, he helped to retain a community of former Systems colleagues, organising parties visiting some of Europe's finest cities.
More about Franz Obladen

Dr Rod Edwards, former manager of Engineering & Manufacturing Systems for Ford in Europe and later director of Plant Floor Systems worldwide, died on 5th October. He was 83.

Rod joined Ford in 1969 and quickly moved through the ranks of the Systems Office. He was systems manager for engineering and manufacturing from 1976 until 1994. He retired in 1996.

After retirement from Ford, Rod retained his long-term visiting professorship at Cranfield University and consulted for Logica.
More about Rod Edwards

Ford has announced arrival of the all-new electric Capri. Designed in Europe, it is built alongside the new Ford Explorer at the Cologne EV Centre.

Company publicity says, "Past meets future. The original Capri is a cult classic. The new all-electric Capri is the car the iconic sports coupe was destined to become. No other family EV has heritage like this." Further details.