Ford Motor Company has responded to US Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy’s criticism of its partnerships with Chinese companies, particularly Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd. (CATL). Ford dismissed Duffy’s remarks as an attempt to garner attention, claiming that the statement contains inaccuracies. The automaker emphasized that its Marshall, Michigan battery plant is fully owned and operated by Ford, employing American workers.
Ford described its agreement with CATL as a limited technology licensing and service agreement, not an indication of dependency. The company highlighted its significant investments in BlueOval Battery Park Michigan, which has created around 1,700 jobs, and reiterated its position as the leading American automaker in terms of vehicle production in the US, workforce numbers, and vehicle exports.
Additionally, Ford challenged the notion of a joint-venture proposal referenced in Duffy’s letter, asserting that no such proposal exists. The company also mentioned its collaboration with the administration on trade and domestic production, noting a commitment to increase Lincoln vehicle production for US customers. This effort has reportedly contributed to the return of “thousands and thousands of jobs” to the country, according to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.
For more information, you can refer to Ford’s official response here.
