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Ford explores battery alliance with BYD navigating complex automotive landscape and geopolitical challenges.
Ford Motor Company is exploring the possibility of establishing a battery supply agreement with BYD Company, which is the largest electric vehicle manufacturer in China. The parties are still in the preliminary phases of discussion but it is possible that if the agreement goes forward it could enable BYD to supply Ford with batteries for use in Ford's overseas manufacturing facilities. This partnership could create politically sensitive issues in the United States. An individual affiliated with the talks who wishes to remain unnamed has indicated that Ford is currently reviewing multiple battery supplier options, including BYD.
The idea of Ford-BYD collaboration has already raised alarm bells among highly regarded political leaders. White House Trade Adviser Peter Navarro and House China Panel Chair John Moolenaar voiced concerns regarding the possible partnership. Moolenaar shares that "Ford ought to be working with our allies, not our enemies" and that would jeopardize Ford's status as an iconic U.S. automaker. Recently, BYD claimed the title of the World’s Largest Electric Vehicle Seller ahead of Tesla and continued its global market expansion throughout South America, Europe, and Southeast Asia.
Ford's Chief Executive Officer Jim Farley has made comments on the company's commitment to hybrid and extended range electric vehicles (EREV) technology. Both of these commitments are also demonstrated at the Detroit Auto Show when Ford announced plans for a plug-in hybrid Bronco variant in China providing evidence of a strategic way for Ford to diversify its powertrain technology offerings. The Ford BYD potential partnership further illustrates the changing dynamics of how automobile manufacturing occurs today as international collaborations continue to increase. Although they are still exploratory at this point the discussions between Ford and BYD shows how technology innovation, global supply chains and political considerations all contribute to the automotive industry as a whole today and into the future.
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