Euro Disney and Ford Join Forces in Marketing Blitz

Ford has become the official vehicle sponsor of Euro Disney, in a partnership that should mean legions of little French kids will aspire to own a Ford C-Max when they grow up.

The C-Max, the company's compact MPV with "kinetic design" language, becomes the official car of Disneyland Resort Paris's 15th anniversary. Ford said it will "evaluate specific sponsorship opportunities for an established Disneyland Park attraction," which presumably will be some kind of ride. It said the agreement will lead to joint marketing initiatives and operations across Europe.

Disneyland Resort Paris has seen its share of controversy. During its construction, it was denounced by some prominent local critics as a symbol of "cultural imperialism" and unhealthy American values. It is the second Disney resort to open outside the United States, following Tokyo Disney.

The C-Max is a European staple for the Dearborn automaker. It has a range of engines, from a 1.6-liter four-cylinder Duratec that makes 99 horsepower and 110 pound-feet of torque to a 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel that makes 134 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque.