Detroit — Ford Motor Company CEO Jim Farley told attendees at the Automotive News Congress on Tuesday that the United States should study the European market’s struggles before making policy decisions regarding Chinese automakers. While he described the situation in Europe as already past the point of no return, he emphasized that the U.S. still has a window to implement careful strategies.
“I think it’s just important for us to take our time to be considerate,” Farley said. “I watch what’s happening in Europe right now, where that was not the case, and it’s really something that they have to deal with now, and it’s too late.”
Data from GlobalData indicates that the global market share of Chinese vehicle brands surged by nearly 70% between 2020 and 2025. According to Germany-based Dataforce, Chinese automakers held virtually no share of the European market in 2020, but that figure climbed to 12% by August 2026.
Ford is currently navigating a complex dual strategy in the region. The automaker is competing against the growing presence of Chinese manufacturers while simultaneously pursuing partnerships with Chinese firms to utilize idle manufacturing capacity and acquire technology, particularly for electric vehicle batteries.
In July, Ford and Chinese automaker Geely announced a joint venture under which Geely will begin producing electric vehicles at a Ford-owned plant in Spain by early next year. Farley explained that this approach allows Ford to partner with Chinese companies in areas where it lacks intellectual property, aiming for greater capital efficiency in markets like Europe and Southeast Asia.
However, Farley noted that Ford also intends to compete directly. The company is preparing to introduce its “universal electric vehicle” next year, which will include a pickup truck model.
The executive’s remarks follow recent political developments, including a letter from the Trump administration expressing “profound concern” over Ford’s ties to Chinese entities. Ford defended its strategy by highlighting its status as America’s largest auto producer and its significant domestic workforce.
Farley’s comments also come shortly after Chinese President Xi Jinping met with President Donald Trump. During their visit, Trump suggested he might be open to allowing Chinese automakers into the U.S. market, provided they manufacture their vehicles domestically.
Is it really ‘too late’ for Europe, or just expensive? The US needs to avoid these costly mistakes.
Wait, Trump is open to Chinese cars if they’re made in the US? That contradicts the protectionist vibe entirely.
12% market share in Europe already? It really does look like the warning signs were ignored there.
Farley’s dual strategy makes sense. Competing while partnering? That’s smart business, not weakness.