Ford CEO Jim Farley is discussing a framework with Trump administration officials to permit Chinese automakers to enter the U.S. market. The proposed plan requires Chinese companies to manufacture vehicles locally through joint ventures. U.S. partners would maintain majority capital ownership in these partnerships. These ventures would facilitate the sharing of both profits and technology. This arrangement mirrors the regulatory requirements Western automakers encountered in China decades ago.
Ford is currently managing a challenging transition within its electric vehicle strategy. The company recently announced a rollback of specific EV investments. Ford’s Model e division currently faces ongoing profitability struggles. This proposal seeks to protect the U.S. market from subsidized imports while allowing Ford to learn from Chinese manufacturing expertise. Significant job losses were recently reported at a Ford EV battery factory in Kentucky.
Ford also revealed the 2026 Ford GT performance supercar. The vehicle features advanced aerodynamics and a high-output engine. This launch underscores the company's commitment to its performance heritage amid broader global strategic shifts.