TechCrunch Mobility provides a weekly newsletter focused on transportation developments. Sign up to receive it in your inbox every weekend for free. This week's highlights include a security lapse at BMW, criticism from a federal agency over an anti-Tesla Super Bowl ad, and a new federal probe into Fisker. But first, I'll share insights from my recent trip to Detroit, where I met with Ford executives to discuss their priorities for 2024 and beyond.
During my visit, Ford executives highlighted their focus on combating Chinese EV automakers and Tesla. They believe that developing a low-cost EV and advanced software is crucial to addressing these competitive challenges. Ford's EV skunkworks project, revealed recently, is dedicated to this mission.
Ford CFO John Lawler stressed the importance of recognizing the competitive threat posed by Chinese automakers, who have become formidable players with significant production capacity and innovative designs. He emphasized that China's long-term strategy extends over decades, aiming to establish global dominance in the EV market.
Additionally, Ford CEO Jim Farley is determined to achieve $2 billion in cost savings across the company's industrial system. This includes improving vehicle quality to reduce warranty costs, a goal highlighted during Farley's recent interview at Wolfe Research's Global Auto and Auto Tech Conference in New York.
In summary, Ford is focused on addressing competitive challenges from Chinese automakers and Tesla by developing affordable EVs and advanced software. They are also prioritizing cost-saving measures and improving vehicle quality to enhance their competitiveness in the market.
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