How many brands did Ford own?
Ford Motor Company, one of the world's largest automakers, has owned a diverse portfolio of automotive brands over the years. The company's brand ownership has evolved significantly, reflecting its strategic decisions and the changing dynamics of the global automotive industry.
Ford's Brand Ownership History
Ford has owned several automotive brands throughout its history. The company's core brand, Ford, has been its primary focus since its inception in 1903. However, Ford has also acquired and owned other well-known automotive brands, including:
- Lincoln (acquired in 1922)
- Mercury (launched in 1938, discontinued in 2011)
- Volvo (acquired in 1999, sold in 2010)
- Jaguar (acquired in 1989, sold in 2008)
- Land Rover (acquired in 2000, sold in 2008)
- Aston Martin (acquired a stake in 1987, sold in 2007)
The acquisition and subsequent divestment of these brands reflect Ford's strategic focus on its core Ford and Lincoln brands, as well as its efforts to streamline its operations and concentrate on its most profitable and successful business units.
Current Brand Ownership
As of 2025, Ford Motor Company owns and operates two main automotive brands: Ford and Lincoln. The Ford brand is the company's high-volume, mainstream offering, while Lincoln is its luxury brand, competing with the likes of Cadillac, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz.
Ford's decision to focus on its core Ford and Lincoln brands has allowed the company to invest more resources into developing and marketing these brands, strengthening their position in the global automotive market.
Who is the world's largest automaker?
Toyota Motor Corporation maintained its position as the world's largest manufacturer of motor vehicles in 2024, with sales of approximately 10.8 million units. This figure surpassed its closest competitor, the Volkswagen Group, which delivered 9.03 million vehicles.
Did GM almost buy Ford?
In fact, Durant almost purchased Ford in 1909. After getting GM in shape, Durant had Henry Ford agree to sell the company for $8 million. The loan committee of the bank, however, passed on this deal. If Durant had had the cash, Ford would have become a division of GM.
How many brands does Ford own?
Ford Motor Company: Ford, Lincoln, Troller. General Motors: Cadillac, GMC, Chevrolet, Holden.
Did Ford own BMW?
BMW Group owns BMW, Mini, and Rolls-Royce. Daimler AG owns Mercedes-Benz and Smart. Ford Motor Co. owns Ford and Lincoln.
Who is bigger, Ford or GM?
Key Takeaways. Ford and General Motors are the two biggest automakers in the United States and are also big players on the world stage. General Motors leads in US market share.
Does Ford own Kia?
Hyundai Motor Company acquired 51% of the company, outbidding Ford Motor Company, which had owned an interest in Kia Motors since 1986. After subsequent divestments, Hyundai Motor Company owns about one third of Kia Motor Corporation.
Which car company owns the most brands?
Volkswagen Group
Volkswagen Group holds the title for owning the most different car brands. VW Group expanded its global reach of car company ownership with a diverse portfolio of acquisitions including Audi, Porsche, Bentley, Bugatti, and Lamborghini.
Does Ford own Chevy?
Yes, General Motors (GM) owns Chevy, along with GMC, Buick, and Cadillac. GM was first launched in 1908 in Flint, Michigan, and the automotive brand has been at the forefront of automotive innovation ever since.
Did Ford own Land Rover?
Land Rover, along with Jaguar Cars, was bought by Tata Motors from Ford in 2008. The two British brands were joined under Tata Motors to become Jaguar Land Rover Limited in 2013.
Did Ford own Volvo?
Renowned for their years of leadership in automotive safety, Volvo Cars was purchased by the Ford Motor Company and remained part of their Premier Automotive brands from 1999 to 2010. The automaker is now owned by Geely Automobile, a major automotive brand based in China.
