Core Viewpoint - Ford Motor Company is facing challenges in the electric vehicle (EV) market, with a cautious outlook from Morgan Stanley, while also pursuing strategic partnerships to enhance its product offerings in the competitive landscape [2][3]. Group 1: Market Position and Analyst Coverage - Morgan Stanley initiated coverage of Ford with an Equal Weight rating and a price target of $14, reflecting a cautious stance due to an anticipated prolonged EV slowdown through 2026 [2]. - The analysts noted a moderately positive outlook for internal combustion engines and hybrids, indicating a mixed sentiment towards Ford's future performance [2]. Group 2: Strategic Partnerships - Ford announced a partnership with Renault to develop small, affordable electric vehicles for the European market, aiming to reduce costs and compete with rising Chinese automakers [3]. - The first of the planned small EVs is set to be produced at a Renault facility in northern France, expected to be available in European showrooms by 2028, filling a gap in Ford's lineup [4]. - The collaboration will also focus on jointly developing commercial vans under both the Renault and Ford brands for the European market [5].

PARIS (Reuters) -The European Commission aims to announce the creation of a new category of affordable small electric cars in December in an effort to counter Chinese competition and revive the European market, an EU commissioner said on Tuesday. WHY IT'S IMPORTANT The Commission has been working on creating an intermediate category between quadricycles that weigh a few hundred kilograms and all other cars, so that small electric vehicles no longer have to include as much safety equipment and technology ...