Ford to retain Mazda expertise.(News)

Byline: Amy Wilson & Kathy Jackson

Automotive News Europe

Ford may be giving up control of Mazda, but it won't give up access to the Japanese automaker's engineering and product development know-how.

Executives from both companies said Mazda and Ford will continue joint ventures and the sharing of vehicle platforms and powertrains.

Ford raised $540 million by cutting its stake in Mazda from 33.4 percent to just over 13 percent.

The sale reflects Ford's increasing financial troubles, not a dissatisfaction with its …