Speculation about a potential partnership between America’s Ford and China’s Xiaomi intensified after a report published by the Financial Times.
Speculation surrounding a possible alliance between U.S.-based Ford and China’s Xiaomi escalated sharply following a report by the Financial Times. Citing sources described as being familiar with the matter, the publication claimed that preliminary talks had taken place regarding a potential joint venture that could manufacture electric vehicles in the United States. However, both companies quickly issued denials, effectively putting an end to the story—at least for now.
According to Aastocks, Xiaomi responded unequivocally, stating that reports of any contact with Ford regarding a joint venture are false and that no such discussions have occurred. The Chinese company also emphasized an important point: Xiaomi does not currently sell any products or services in the United States.
Ford took an equally firm stance. The automaker called the Financial Times report completely inaccurate and lacking any factual basis. Reuters also cited Ford’s denial, confirming that the company does not acknowledge any of the arrangements described in the article.
According to the FT’s version of events, unnamed sources spoke of “preliminary” contacts between Ford and Xiaomi that could theoretically have led to vehicle production in the U.S. The article also claimed that Ford had allegedly held discussions with BYD and other Chinese automakers while exploring potential partnerships related to the American market.
Key points from the FT report included:
Alleged early-stage talks between Ford and Xiaomi;
Mentions of BYD and other Chinese brands as possible counterparts in discussions with Ford;
No official confirmation from any of the companies involved.
Previously, Ford executives have not hidden their interest in Chinese electric vehicle technology. CEO Jim Farley has publicly praised Chinese EVs and even imported a Xiaomi SU7 for personal use. He has also warned that Chinese competitors are becoming a serious threat to Western brands and are likely to attempt entry into the U.S. market sooner or later.
At the same time, the United States continues to maintain a tough stance on Chinese automotive products and technologies. Tariffs on Chinese vehicle imports remain in place, along with restrictions on Chinese hardware and software used in connected vehicles. Lawmakers are also wary of cooperation between American automakers and Chinese tech companies. Against this backdrop, Ford’s licensing agreement with CATL for battery technology used in U.S. production is often cited as a notable exception.
Xiaomi entered the automotive sector only in 2024, launching its first electric vehicle and expanding beyond consumer electronics into passenger cars. Meanwhile, Chinese automakers—including BYD—are aggressively growing sales in Europe, Southeast Asia, and Latin America, while increasing localized production in those regions.
The official position of both Ford and Xiaomi is clear: at this time, there are no talks underway regarding the creation of a joint venture to produce electric vehicles in the United States.