Ford splits into two teams; one focusing on engines and the other EVs

Ford has announced it has created two separate divisions, as the brand splits into one team focusing on internal combustion engines and hybrids, and a second purely on electric models. 

The American brand says it’s the latest step in ‘transforming its global automotive business’, with two ‘distinct businesses’ being established – Ford Blue and Ford Model E . 

The latter Model E team will work on developing EV platforms, batteries and improving charging, as well as being able to have its own approach when it comes to designing and launching electric cars and other connected services and shared mobility ideas.

Ford says the Model E team will also create ‘new shopping, buying and ownership experience for its future vehicle customers’. As part of this the firm says it will focus on simplicity, transparent pricing and enhanced customer support. 

Separately, ‘Ford Blue’ remains dedicated to internal combustion engines, which continue to make up the bulk of the brand’s business, particularly in areas outside Europe. It says this team will ‘strengthen the iconic Ford vehicles customers love’, giving the F-Series, Ranger, Mustang and Bronco as an example.

This division will also work on rooting out waste and work on reducing vehicle and manufacturing associated costs, while aiming to offer ‘tailored brand and vehicle experiences and services’.

Though the two divisions will be separate, both remain centrally owned by Ford, with no change for shareholders being reported. 

Jim Farley, president and CEO of Ford, said: “We have made tremendous progress in a short period of time. We have launched a series of hit products globally and demand for our new EVs like F-150 Lightning and Mustang Mach-E is off the charts.

“But our ambition with Ford is to become a truly great, world-changing company again, and that requires focus. We are going all in, creating separate but complementary businesses that give us start-up speed and unbridled innovation in Ford Model E together with Ford Blue’s industrial know-how, volume and iconic brands like Bronco, that start-ups can only dream about.”