Image shows Geely EX5, which uses the same platform as the rumored Ford SUV - this is not the new Ford. Image Credit: Geely.Ford's next compact SUV may wear a distinctly Blue Oval design, but underneath, it will have significant Chinese roots. The upcoming model is set to use vehicle architecture supplied by Geely as the two automakers deepen their manufacturing partnership in Europe.According to Automotive News, Geely Auto Group chairman An Conghui confirmed that Ford will use the company's Global Intelligent Electric Architecture, or GEA, for an upcoming vehicle. The platform already underpins Geely models, including the EX5 electric crossover and Starray plug-in hybrid.Ford has described its upcoming vehicle as a compact crossover with "multi-energy" powertrain options. That terminology suggests the architecture could allow Ford to offer both electrified combustion and fully electric versions, although specific powertrains haven't been announced.AdvertisementAdvertisementAnyone worried that the result will simply be a Geely with Ford badges shouldn't expect such an obvious connection. Ford is reportedly giving the crossover "rally-bred" styling intended to establish its own identity despite the shared architecture underneath.Ford And Geely Are Getting CloserImage shows the Geely EX5, which uses the same GEA architecture as the rumored Ford compact SUV will use. Image Credit: Geely.The new crossover is part of an agreement between Ford and Geely centered around Ford's Valencia factory in Spain. The plant has been operating well below its potential production capacity, making additional models increasingly important to its future.Geely is expected to begin producing vehicles there in 2028, with the all-electric EX2 being among the first candidates. Geely previously said the cooperation would eventually involve two of its own new-energy vehicles and three Ford-branded multi-energy models.For Ford, the arrangement offers access to a modern architecture without requiring it to shoulder the entire cost and development burden of creating another platform independently. Geely, meanwhile, gains European manufacturing capacity as it continues expanding its presence outside China.AdvertisementAdvertisementGeely Auto Group vice president Alex Nan described the partnership as "mutually beneficial," saying it represents an important step in the company's global expansion.What Is Geely's GEA Platform?GEA is designed to support several different types of electrified powertrains rather than being restricted exclusively to battery-electric vehicles. That flexibility fits neatly with Ford's current push toward offering customers a wider mix of propulsion options.Using a Chinese-developed platform would hardly make Ford unique. Automakers are increasingly sharing architectures, batteries, software, and other major components as the cost of developing modern electrified vehicles continues to climb.The challenge will be ensuring the resulting Ford actually feels like a Ford. Styling is one obvious way to accomplish that, which may explain the emphasis on the mysterious "rally-bred" design theme.Don't Expect A Geely With A Ford GrilleImage shows Ford Capri, not the rumored compact SUV. Image Credit: Ford.Precisely what Ford means by "rally-bred" is unclear. It could point toward a tougher, more upright crossover influenced by Ford's extensive rally history, potentially using aggressive bodywork and other visual cues to separate it from Geely's existing GEA-based vehicles.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe strategy would also contrast with Ford's recent European EVs. Models such as the Explorer and Capri use Volkswagen's MEB electric architecture, yet Ford has worked to give both distinct exterior and interior designs rather than simply rebadging their Volkswagen relatives.Ford is also expected to build a separate Bronco-branded SUV in Spain, reportedly arriving around 2028. That vehicle is understood to use a different platform, so it shouldn't be confused with the Geely-based compact crossover.A Very Different Kind Of FordNo final name, specifications, pricing, or launch date have been announced for the new GEA-based Ford. The partnership nevertheless provides another indication of how quickly traditional boundaries between global automakers are disappearing.A Ford designed to evoke rally cars while riding on Chinese-developed architecture and rolling out of a Spanish factory would have sounded unusual not long ago, but now it may simply be the most practical way to get another competitive compact SUV onto the road.AdvertisementAdvertisementIf you want more stories like this, follow Guessing Headlights on Yahoo so you don't miss what's coming next.