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Is there a relationship between Ford and Mazda?

Ford and Mazda have had a long and complex relationship over the years, with the two automakers collaborating on various projects and even sharing ownership stakes at times. While the nature of their partnership has evolved, there are still strong ties between the two companies.


A History of Collaboration


The relationship between Ford and Mazda dates back to the late 1970s, when Ford acquired a 25% stake in the Japanese automaker. This initial investment was part of a broader strategy by Ford to expand its global reach and access new markets. Over the following decades, the two companies worked together on a number of vehicle development and production projects, leveraging each other's strengths and expertise.


One of the most significant collaborations was the joint development of the Ford Ranger and Mazda B-Series pickup trucks in the 1990s. The two companies also worked together on the development of the Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute SUVs, as well as the Ford Fusion and Mazda6 sedans.


Shifting Ownership and Partnerships


The ownership structure between Ford and Mazda has also evolved over time. In the early 2000s, Ford increased its stake in Mazda to 33.4%, making it the largest shareholder. However, in the wake of the global financial crisis, Ford reduced its ownership in Mazda to around 13% by 2010.


Despite the changing ownership structure, the two companies have continued to collaborate on various projects. In recent years, they have worked together on the development of new SUV and crossover models, as well as exploring opportunities in emerging technologies such as electric vehicles and autonomous driving.


The Current Relationship


Today, the relationship between Ford and Mazda remains strong, with the two companies continuing to collaborate on various initiatives. While the ownership structure is no longer as closely intertwined as it once was, the two automakers still share a number of common interests and strategic goals.


As the automotive industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the relationship between Ford and Mazda continues to develop and adapt to the changing landscape. However, it is clear that the two companies have a long history of successful collaboration and are likely to remain important partners in the years to come.

Who makes Mazda engines?


Mazda manufactures both piston and Wankel “rotary” engines. The company's Mexican subsidiary is responsible for producing the gasoline and diesel engines used in Mazda vehicles.



Does Ford still collaborate with Mazda?


Under the administration of Alan Mulally, Ford gradually divested its stake in Mazda from 2008 to 2015, with Ford holding 2.1% of Mazda stock as of 2014 and severing most production as well as development ties.



Does the Ford Ranger use a Mazda engine?


Mazda-based (1998–2011)
The first-generation Mazda-based Ranger was produced from 1998 to 2006, while the second generation was produced from 2006 to 2011; the latter was derived from the Mazda BT-50 (which replaced the Mazda B series).



Who is Mazda owned by now?


Mazda is owned by the Mazda Motor Corporation, based near Hiroshima, Japan.



Is Mazda owned by Ford?


But the Mazda Motor Corporation near Hiroshima, Japan, is the manufacturer who makes Mazda. At one time, Ford owned part of the company, buying a stake in it in 1979 and eventually owning a controlling share by 1995. However, Ford had sold all of its shares in Mazda by 2015 as a way of streamlining its assets.



Who makes the engines for Mazda?


Mazda manufactures both piston and Wankel “rotary” engines. The company's Mexican subsidiary is responsible for producing the gasoline and diesel engines used in Mazda vehicles.



Who did Ford merge with?


Due to limited sales of the Continental and the Edsel disaster, Ford merged Mercury, Edsel, and Lincoln into "M-E-L," which reverted to "Lincoln-Mercury" after Edsel's November 1959 demise.



Who is Ford owned by?


Ford family
Ford Motor Company

Ford World Headquarters in Dearborn, Michigan
Total assetsUS$285.2 billion (2024)
Total equityUS$44.84 billion (2024)
OwnerFord family (2% equity; 40% voting power)
Number of employees171,000 (2024)



Are Mazda engines built by Ford?


Ford had ownership in Mazda for many years and they shared designs. Mazda still built the engine and the Skyactiv's are mostly of Mazda origin. It's a great engine and with proper maintenance will last a long time. Even the Ford based 2.5L was a good motor.



What is the relationship between Ford and Mazda?


Ford and Mazda had a partnership for almost 40 years, ending in 2015. At one point, Ford owned 1/3 of Mazda. Mazda is now in a partnership with Toyota to trade engine/fuel-cell technology.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.