The American car manufacturer Ford is exploring the option of constructing a new SUV at its Valencia plant in Spain.

While information about this model is still limited, it is presumed to be an entirely new vehicle with a hybrid transmission.

Currently, the Kuga SUV is being produced at the facility, where 4,800 employees are working. The company previously manufactured the Mondeo, S-Max, and Galaxy models, but all three have been discontinued. In its latest statement, Ford confirmed its interest in launching a new model in Spain, although a final decision on this matter has not been made yet.

«We are closely monitoring the situation in European markets, exploring opportunities to expand our current model lineup. Considering industry changes, we see potential for adding an all-new multi-energy SUV to the European portfolio, with production planned in Valencia,» the company’s statement said.

The factory workers’ union, representing the interests of employees, welcomed this news. They told the Spanish newspaper Cinco Dias that «Almussafes will receive a new car and retain jobs.»

Details about the potential new model remain uncertain. If the vehicle is offered exclusively in a hybrid version, it is likely to be available in markets where hybrid models are popular and strict fuel economy standards are enforced, particularly in Europe.