Ford and Renault Group have signed a letter of intent to explore collaborating on LCVs.

The agreement comes as part of a wider partnership between the two manufacturers, which will also see the development of two new Ford electric cars on Renault’s Ampere platform.

The LCV deal is set to include both Ford- and Renault-branded vehicles.

Ford said the Renault deal would build on its history of partnership in Europe with companies such as Volkswagen, with the latest Transit Custom and Ranger forming the basis of the latest Transporter and Amarok.

Ford Motor Company president and CEO Jim Farley said: “The strategic partnership with Renault Group marks an important step for Ford and supports our strategy to build a highly efficient and fit-for-the future business in Europe.”

Renault Group CEO Francois Provost said: “Renault Group is proud to announce a new strategic cooperation with Ford, an iconic car manufacturer. 

“This partnership shows the strength of our partnership know-how and competitiveness in Europe. In the long term, combining our strengths with Ford will make us more innovative and more responsive in a fast-changing European automotive market.”