Ford Otosan announced on Friday, March 14th, the commencement of deliveries for its first electric vehicles (EVs) manufactured in Romania.
Series production of the fully electric Puma Gen-E, E-Transit Courier, and E-Tourneo Courier has begun at the company’s state-of-the-art facility in Craiova, solidifying its role as a key production hub for Ford in Europe.
The Craiova plant is celebrated as one of the most complex and innovative facilities within Ford’s production network, and it stands out as the only one in Europe producing both passenger cars and commercial vehicles on the same lines, including both internal combustion engine and electric vehicle versions, according to the company.
“Our ability to produce six different versions of vehicles at the same facility underscores not only our flexibility but also our commitment to making electric mobility more accessible to a wide audience,” stated Güven Özyurt, General Manager of Ford Otosan. “As the first electric vehicle manufacturer in Romania, we are proud to be at the forefront of industry transformation and contribute to a more sustainable future.”
To support the ramp-up of electric vehicle production, Ford Otosan has invested in localizing critical components, including the establishment of a new battery assembly line at the Craiova plant. This assembly line, launched in October 2024, is part of a broader investment strategy announced in 2022 when Ford Otosan officially took over the Craiova plant.
Since 2022, Ford Otosan has invested a total of EUR 500 million to support the diversification of vehicle production at the Craiova plant. This investment has also contributed to the technological transformation of the Romanian facility, positioning it as one of the most advanced and adaptable automotive production units in Europe.
Ford Otosan has also launched a new intermodal transport route “to enhance the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability of its logistics operations between Craiova and Turkey.” This new system will transport components from Turkey to Romania and the completed vehicles from Romania to Turkey, utilizing rail transport for both legs.
Currently, Ford Otosan Romania produces both internal combustion engine and electric versions of the Ford Transit Courier, Tourneo Courier, and Puma models, in addition to the renowned 1.0 EcoBoost engine. The Craiova plant operates in three shifts for both vehicle and engine production and currently employs over 6,600 people.
