US Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy has urged Ford Motor Company to reduce its reliance on Chinese technology and manufacturing, citing national security concerns.
In a letter to Ford CEO Jim Farley dated 8 September, Duffy criticised the company’s continued use of Chinese technology and partnerships, arguing that Ford should increase its focus on manufacturing and technological development in the US.
The letter highlights Ford’s use of licensed technology from Chinese battery manufacturer Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd. (CATL) at its BlueOval Battery Park facility in Marshall, Michigan. Duffy said CATL is included on the US Department of War’s list of banned companies.
Duffy also raised concerns about Ford’s partnership with Chinese automotive manufacturer Geely Auto. The companies recently agreed to work together on low- and zero-emission vehicles at Ford’s factory in Valencia, Spain.
The secretary further pointed to Ford’s decision to delay the return of some Lincoln models to US production until 2030. He said this would leave Ford dependent on China for aspects of its vehicle manufacturing for several more years.
He also called on Ford to develop greater technological independence and make use of US-based manufacturing and engineering capabilities.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy said:When a company intentionally chooses to deepen operational dependencies on strategic competitors, it fails to act as the reliable partner the American public and this DOT require. Iconic American companies, like Ford, are also expected to out-innovate competitors. To that end, they need to chart clear paths to technological self-reliance.
The intervention comes as the Trump administration continues to emphasise domestic manufacturing and reducing US dependence on China across strategic industries, including automotive and battery technology.
