Brief
Ford CEO warns U.S. of Chinese EV surge after Europe shift
Farley cites Chinese EV market share in Europe and recent partnerships as reasons for tighter U.S. scrutiny.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Ford chief executive Jim Farley told attendees at the Automotive News Congress in Detroit that Europe has already fallen under the influence of Chinese electric‑vehicle makers, and that Washington should proceed carefully before permitting those cars in the United States.
What happened
Farley said the comment while referencing data from Schmidt Automotive Research showing that one in seven battery EVs sold in Western Europe during the first five months of 2026 were from Chinese brands. He noted that the United States currently blocks most Chinese EV imports, but that policy could change.
What the report adds
Gizmodo reported that Ford announced a joint‑development venture with China’s Geely in Spain in July and continues a battery partnership with CATL. The outlet also cited a letter from Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy criticizing those ties as a threat to U.S. supply‑chain security.
What was said
Farley told the Detroit audience, “I watch what’s happening in Europe right now… it’s too late,” according to Gizmodo. Duffy’s letter, also quoted by Gizmodo, said the Geely joint venture “helps strategic adversaries secure a vital foothold in Western markets.” Former President Donald Trump, in a Fox News interview, said he would allow Chinese manufacturers to build cars in the U.S. only if they hired American workers.
How it came about
Ford’s recent Chinese collaborations follow a broader push to stay competitive as affordable, high‑tech Chinese EVs gain market share worldwide. The company’s earlier announcement about AI as a “companion” for blue‑collar workers was covered by Felo News on 30 September 2026.
Key facts
- One in seven battery EVs sold in Western Europe in the first five months of 2026 were from Chinese brands. (gizmodo.com)
- Ford partnered with Geely to develop EVs in Spain and with CATL for batteries. (gizmodo.com)
- U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy criticized Ford’s Chinese partnerships as a security risk. (gizmodo.com)
Sources
- [1] gizmodo.com — originally reported as “Ford CEO Says Europe Is Lost To Chinese Electric Vehicles”
