Ford-Mazda - “The Best Working Alliance That Has Existed!”

Even if American carmaker Ford plans to sell all, or at least, a part of its 33.4 percent controlling interest in Mazda, the relationship between the two manufacturers will remain very strong, representatives of the two companies were quoted as saying by The Detroit News. One month ago, Ford confirmed plans to sell its Mazda controlling stake, without mentioning the amount of shares to be sold. Even if the Japanese manufacturer could buy back Ford's part, several other Asian companies “have also expressed interest,” the aforementioned source added.

However, in case Ford decides to sell its Mazda controlling interest, the two carmakers will continue to collaborate on future projects and technologies, Mazda's officials told The Detroit News. In the last few year, Ford used Mazda's product development system, as well as several technologies implemented on cars and crossovers.

"We have a very strong relationship with Ford. Those relationships will continue because we are very, very ingrained and we've got a great working relationship,” James J. O'Sullivan, president of Mazda North America, said.

Mazda's estimated value is approximately $4.1 billion, which means Ford's controlling part can be sold for as much as $1.3 billion. The Japanese manufacturer recorded slow sales in the last few months, with a 45 percent decrease in the third quarter of 2008. Moreover, Mazda had a Q3 net profit of $147 million compared to $270 million recorded in the same period of the last year. Although the company's officials initially announced a goal of 1.405 million sold units this year, it was reduced by 75,000 vehicles due to lowered demand caused by the global economic crisis.