Ford’s CEO says it is “too late” for European brands to compete with Chinese electric cars

Ford CEO Jim Farley believes the United States should adopt a completely opposite approach to Europe’s when dealing with Chinese manufacturers. The executive states that efforts must continue to prevent Chinese models from being sold in the North American country. In his view, it is “already too late” for European brands, but not for American ones.

"I think it’s important that we take our time [...]. I see what’s happening in Europe right now, and it’s something they really have to address now, as it’s already too late." In fact, Chinese firms are not only rapidly gaining market share in Europe but also in other key markets such as Mexico.

Farley argues that allowing the sale of Chinese electric cars in the United States would pose a national security issue, as they “can record videos of everything.” These statements are particularly ironic given that Ford recently reached a partnership deal with the Chinese giant Geely, transferring part of its factory in Almussafes (Valencia) to them.

"Our response is quite simple. We will partner with the Chinese where we don’t have [intellectual property], where we can be more efficient in using capital, in places like Europe or Southeast Asia." Ford is set to develop a new model based on Geely’s platform. It is expected to be a sporty multi-energy crossover. This competitor to the CUPRA Formentor could revert to the Focus name.

Ford doesn’t want Chinese electric cars to enter the United States

As it stands today, Ford is one of the traditional automakers lagging farthest behind in terms of electrification. In the United States, it only sells two electric models (the established Mustang Mach-E and the E-Transit van), having recently discontinued the F-150 Lightning pickup. Competitors like General Motors offer a much broader range of electric vehicles.

In Europe, Ford relies heavily on the electric technology of its partners. The Explorer and Capri are based on Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform, while the upcoming Fiesta and EcoSport, scheduled for 2028, will be derived from the Renault 5 and 4 respectively. This includes the aforementioned Focus with Geely’s powertrain, which is likely to come in a 100% electric version as well.

Its only two electric vehicles with proprietary technology are the Puma Gen-E, which is based on a gasoline-powered model, and the Mustang Mach-E. We should also consider the Courier, Custom, and Transit vans, which come in zero-emission versions. Although Ford is finalizing the development of an electric platform aimed at matching the cost structure of Chinese manufacturers (which will debut in 2027 with the Fathom pickup), it is unclear whether this architecture will reach Europe.

Source | InsideEVs