Gasgoo Munich- On Feb. 1, a rumor about a potential automaker partnership grabbed headlines. The Financial Times reported Saturday, citing four people familiar with the matter, that Ford Motor (F.N) had held talks with Xiaomi. The discussions focused on establishing a joint venture in the United States to manufacture electric vehicles—a move that could pave the way for Chinese automakers to enter the American market.
Xiaomi moved quickly to quash the speculation. The company flatly stated that the reports were false, emphasizing that it currently sells no products or services in the US market and has never engaged in negotiations with Ford regarding a joint venture. It was a direct and unambiguous denial.
Ford wasn't far behind. Mark Truby, the automaker's chief communications officer, declared the rumor unfounded, stating there was "no factual basis" for it. This response echoed Xiaomi's stance, and the dual denials effectively shattered the speculation of a partnership.
Notably, Ford CEO Jim Farley has repeatedly voiced admiration for Chinese electric vehicles, even importing a Xiaomi SU7 for personal use. He has also warned that Chinese automakers represent an "existential threat" to Western incumbents. Yet, despite his comments, they lend no credence to the recent rumors. Neither company has disclosed whether there have been any contacts on other levels, but the situation bears watching.
