Ford CEO urges caution on Chinese automakers

Ford CEO Jim Farley urged the United States to carefully weigh whether and how Chinese automakers should enter its market, citing Europe as a warning. Speaking at an Automotive News conference on September 29, he said European countries had waited too long to respond to Chinese competition. His remarks were an assessment of the market and policy response, not a call for a U.S. ban. Farley argued that the United States still has time to consider its approach. He said Ford would partner with Chinese companies when they offer expertise the automaker lacks or allow it to use capital more efficiently, while also competing with them directly. He described the strategies as compatible. Ford’s planned joint venture with China’s Geely to develop electric cars for Europe illustrates the partnership side. The companies have said operations are planned to begin in 2027, with the first models expected in 2028. The arrangement is part of Ford’s effort to work with Chinese companies in some markets while developing products intended to compete with them. The company is also pursuing a direct-competition strategy.