Does Ford still own part of Mazda?
No, Ford no longer owns a stake in Mazda. The two automakers had a long-standing partnership, but Ford divested its remaining shares in Mazda in 2015.
The Ford-Mazda Partnership
Ford and Mazda have had a close relationship for decades. In 1979, Ford acquired a 25% stake in Mazda, and the two companies collaborated on several vehicle platforms and technologies over the years. At its peak, Ford owned as much as 33.4% of Mazda.
The partnership allowed Ford to gain access to Mazda's expertise in areas like rotary engines and small car development, while Mazda benefited from Ford's resources and global distribution network. The two automakers jointly developed models like the Ford Ranger and Mazda B-Series pickup trucks, as well as the Ford Probe and Mazda MX-6 sports cars.
Ford's Divestment from Mazda
As the global financial crisis hit in the late 2000s, Ford began to scale back its international operations and focus more on its core North American business. In 2008, Ford reduced its stake in Mazda from 33.4% to 13.4%.
Then, in 2015, Ford sold off its remaining 15% stake in Mazda, completely divesting from the Japanese automaker. This marked the end of the long-standing partnership between the two companies.p>
Since then, Mazda has operated as an independent company, though the two automakers still collaborate on some projects and share certain technologies. However, the level of integration and cross-ownership that characterized the Ford-Mazda relationship in the past no longer exists.
Does Ford still own a percentage of Mazda?
Ford does not currently own Mazda. Ford began selling its shares in Mazda in 2008, following the global financial crisis. By 2015, Ford had divested almost all of its stake, reducing its ownership to a negligible amount (under 2%). Mazda is now fully independent.
Why did Ford and Mazda split?
Ford and Mazda ended their partnership primarily due to the 2008 global financial crisis, which forced Ford to sell its stake to raise cash, and a strategic shift for both companies. Ford needed to focus on its core brands, while Mazda sought to develop its own distinct identity and technical direction, such as its "Kodo" design language, which was hindered by the partnership. By 2015, Ford had sold its remaining shares, and the companies became fully independent.
- 2008 Financial Crisis: The global economic downturn pressured Ford, leading it to begin selling off its shares to improve its financial stability.
- Strategic Re-evaluation: Ford needed to raise cash and refocus on its own brand's products.
- Mazda's Independent Direction: Mazda wanted to pursue its own unique design philosophy, such as the "Kodo" design language, which would have been difficult with a controlling stake from Ford.
- End of Ownership: Ford continued to reduce its stake, and the relationship ended in September 2015 when Ford sold its remaining shares in Mazda, making the companies fully independent.
- Continued Cooperation: Despite the split, the companies maintained a history of cooperation and strategic partnerships, sharing technology and collaborating on certain projects.
Is Mazda still partnered with Ford?
Mazda, founded in 1920 as Toyo Cork Kogyo, became an independent automaker. It gained renown for its unique rotary engines and innovative vehicle designs. Ford owned a 33.4% stake in Mazda until 2015, ending its control. Mazda is now independent, with a strategic alliance with Toyota (5.05% stake).
What brands does Ford own?
Ford currently owns the Ford brand and its luxury division, Lincoln. In addition to these, the company also owns the Brazilian commercial vehicle brand Troller and the Motorcraft brand for auto parts.
- Ford: The primary brand and namesake of the company.
- Lincoln: Ford's luxury vehicle brand, which it has owned for over 100 years.
- Troller: A Brazilian brand that produces SUVs.
- Motorcraft: A brand for auto parts and accessories.
