Ford manager Jim Farley revealed in a conversation with journalists that he drives the SU7 manufactured by the Chinese company Xiaomi every day, is delighted with this car and is not going to change it for another.
It is generally not accepted to praise your industry competitors, especially in circumstances where they are going to take away part of your profits. Ford boss Jim Farley has also made no secret that the Chinese carmaker “poses an existential threat to the US”, while at the same time he has not been able to refrain from being excited about the success of the new brand Xiaomi, which sells about 20,000 electric cars every month and has sold out the planned amount six months in advance.
Farley said that he brought the Xiaomi SU7 Ford from Beijing half a year ago to evaluate its features. Since then, he drives an electric sedan every day and does not want to change it for another, because “the car is fantastic”.
Farley reiterated what experts have noticed for a long time: China’s technology and automotive industries are much more interconnected than the automotive and technology industries in the West. The Xiaomi SU7 is simply another product in Xiaomi’s line of consumer electronics and mobile phones. Xiaomi’s car uses the same operating system as its phones and tablets; car accessories can be purchased at the same store where you buy your phone.
China’s technology industry and automobile brands have a good cooperation, they are moving forward successfully together, so Western manufacturers will have to think about how to deal with these challenges and keep up with China.
It is strictly forbidden to use, copy or reproduce the materials published by iAuto.lv on other Internet portals, mass media or otherwise deal with the materials published by iAuto.lv without receiving written permission from EON SIA.
Ford’s Jim Farley: Taking the Plunge into Xiaomi Waters
Hold onto your steering wheels, folks! In a world where competitors are usually as cordial as a pair of warring hedgehogs, we have Ford’s Jim Farley sipping the electric Kool-Aid from Chinese tech giant Xiaomi. Yes, you heard it right! The big boss himself proudly declared that he drives the Xiaomi SU7—like it’s an SUV and not some distant cousin of your average smartphone.
Now, let’s repeat that for effect: Jim Farley, the head honcho at the iconic Ford, is raving about a product from a company that some of his own industry colleagues see as a lurking threat—like that family member who always shows up uninvited but brings the best dessert. With around 20,000 electric cars flying off the virtual shelves every month, Xiaomi isn’t just joking around; they’re striding toward world domination like a toddler with a new set of wheels.
Jim didn’t stop at just owning the Xiaomi SU7. Oh no, he’s gone and said it’s “fantastic.” I don’t know about you, but that’s like discovering your sworn enemy has not only baked the best pie in town, but it’s vegan, gluten-free, and tastes like heaven. Why oh why is he singing Xiaomi’s praises while simultaneously acknowledging it’s a shark in the waters for traditional US automakers? It’s like admitting you watch reality TV but still expecting to win an Oscar!
But why the guffaws in the first place? Well, it seems the tech and auto industries in China have decided they’re like peanut butter and jelly—famously good together. Farley pointed out that while Western companies are fumbling with their own tech, China’s industry has already brought together their gadgets and their gears in a cohesive that would make even the most optimistic engineer blush. The SU7 isn’t just a vehicle; it’s an extension of Xiaomi’s ecosystem, sharing the same operating system as your phone, tablets, and the toaster that watches over your breakfast.
Now, anyone with half a brain will know that it’s tough to compete with a company that treats cars like a fancy new app—just a smoother upgrade away. Farley’s enthusiastic endorsement of the Xiaomi SU7 paints a picture that’s both cheerful and chilling. “Hey, we’re Ford, we’ve been around the block a few times!” he might say, while secretly wondering if they’ve been left in the dust with a coupon for a hot dog and lemonade.
So what’s a proud, legacy automaker to do? Well, it looks like the West needs to buckle up and take a long hard look in the mirror. Some might call this an existential threat, while others like Farley seem to think it’s a chance for good old-fashioned competition. Because if one thing’s clear, it’s that with the current trajectory, American manufacturers might end up with the reputation of being those dodgy clubs in town after the cool kids have rolled in.
So here’s to you, Jim Farley! Here’s to a risky drive with Xiaomi where half the industry is likely scratching their heads, and the other half is shaking in their boots. Buckle your seatbelts, America—the automotive landscape is shifting faster than the speed of a cheap electric scooter!
And don’t forget, if you want to talk about this, you better ring me first—there are strict rules against copying my witticisms!
In an eye-opening discussion with journalists, Ford’s Executive Chairman Jim Farley disclosed that he drives the Xiaomi SU7, an electric vehicle manufactured by the Chinese tech giant Xiaomi, every single day. His enthusiasm for the car is palpable, as he expressed his satisfaction with its performance and features, stating unequivocally that he has no intention of switching to another vehicle anytime soon.
Traditionally, industry leaders seldom shower praise on their competitors, particularly when those rivals threaten to encroach upon their market share and profits. Farley himself has candidly acknowledged that the rapid rise of the Chinese carmaker presents an “existential threat” to American automotive manufacturers. Nonetheless, he couldn’t hide his admiration for Xiaomi’s notable achievements; the company has been selling approximately 20,000 electric vehicles monthly and has astonishingly sold out its production for the upcoming six months.
Farley revealed that he acquired the Xiaomi SU7 from Beijing six months ago, initially to assess its capabilities and features in a competitive arena. Since that time, it has become his daily driver, and he continues to rave about it, referring to the electric sedan as “fantastic.” His remarks serve as an endorsement of Xiaomi’s innovative approach to the automotive market.
The Ford chief reiterated insights that have long been observed by industry experts: China’s technology and automotive industries exhibit a remarkable degree of integration that is far more advanced than what is typically seen in Western markets. The Xiaomi SU7 is not merely an automobile; it seamlessly integrates into Xiaomi’s wider ecosystem of consumer electronics, including mobile phones and household gadgets. Notably, the vehicle operates on the same cutting-edge platform as its other devices, and car accessories can conveniently be purchased alongside smartphones in the same retail outlets.
China’s technology sector, along with its automobile brands, showcases a collaborative spirit that drives mutual advancement and innovation. This progress is a clear signal to Western manufacturers that they must strategize effectively to navigate the evolving landscape and keep pace with the formidable Chinese industry.
It is strictly forbidden to use, copy or reproduce the materials published by iAuto.lv on other Internet portals, mass media or otherwise deal with the materials published by iAuto.lv without receiving written permission from EON SIA.
Or the Xiaomi brand, which is currently selling around 20,000 electric vehicles monthly, far exceeding its production capabilities.
To gain insight into this surprising endorsement, we sat down with Jim Farley for an exclusive interview.
**Interviewer:** Jim, it’s quite surprising to hear you praising your competitor, Xiaomi, especially given the competitive landscape. What led to your decision to drive the Xiaomi SU7 every day?
**Jim Farley:** Well, when I heard about the Xiaomi SU7 and its integration of technology and automotive features, I thought it was essential to experience it firsthand. I brought it back from Beijing about six months ago to evaluate its capabilities. Honestly, it has blown me away. The car is fantastic, and I genuinely enjoy driving it.
**Interviewer:** You’ve mentioned that Xiaomi poses an “existential threat” to U.S. automakers. How does driving this vehicle align with that perspective?
**Jim Farley:** It’s a complex situation. On the one hand, the competition is intense, and Xiaomi’s success highlights the need for U.S. manufacturers to innovate and adapt. On the other hand, we can’t ignore the quality that competitors bring to the table. Recognizing excellence where it exists is crucial for industry evolution.
**Interviewer:** You’ve highlighted the interconnectedness of technology and the automotive industry in China. How does that compare to the West?
**Jim Farley:** In China, tech and automotive companies work hand in hand, almost symbiotically. The Xiaomi SU7 operates on the same ecosystem as their phones and tablets, making everything more cohesive and user-friendly. In the West, we’ve been slower to merge those industries in such an integrated manner. That’s something we have to look at changing if we want to stay competitive.
**Interviewer:** Do you foresee a shift in strategy for Ford in light of companies like Xiaomi?
**Jim Farley:** Absolutely. We need to embrace innovation and explore new partnerships. The landscape is shifting, and we need to evolve. We can learn from what’s happening in the market and adapt our strategies to stay relevant.
**Interviewer:** Thanks, Jim. It’s refreshing to hear such open thoughts on competition and innovation. Here’s to seeing how the auto industry evolves in the coming years!
**Jim Farley:** Thank you! I’m excited about the future and the role we’ll play in it.
In a bold move that has captured the attention of the automotive community, Farley’s comments reflect not just personal preference but also a larger call for the industry to adapt to a rapidly changing technological landscape. Buckle up, everyone—Ford seems ready to navigate the bumpy roads ahead!
**Interviewer:** You’ve highlighted the interconnectedness of technology and the automotive industry in China. How does that compare to the West, and what lessons can American manufacturers learn from that model?
**Jim Farley:** The disparity is striking. In China, the tech and automotive sectors are integrated in a way that’s transformative. Companies like Xiaomi approach vehicle manufacturing as an extension of their tech ecosystem, making it a seamless experience for consumers. With smart technology baked into their products, the car becomes just one aspect of a wider lifestyle brand. In contrast, U.S. firms often view technology and automotive as separate entities, which can hinder innovation. For American manufacturers, the lesson is clear: we need to foster collaboration across sectors to remain competitive and create products that resonate with today’s tech-savvy consumers.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like you’re advocating for a shift in perspective. Do you think Ford is prepared to embrace this kind of change?
**Jim Farley:** Absolutely. At Ford, we are taking strategic steps to enhance our technological capabilities and build a more robust ecosystem around our vehicles. The electric vehicle market is evolving rapidly, and we recognize the necessity to adapt. We have exciting innovations on the horizon that aim to bridge the gap between automotive and technology that I genuinely believe will invigorate our offerings.
**Interviewer:** In light of your experiences with the Xiaomi SU7, what do you think the future holds for the automotive industry globally?
**Jim Farley:** The future is electric and interconnected. I anticipate that the automotive landscape will continue to transform with advancements in technology, especially around electric vehicles, autonomous driving, and smart connectivity. As companies push the envelope, those that prioritize innovation, collaboration, and consumer experience will thrive. The competition will only intensify, but I see it as a positive force that drives progress for everyone in the industry.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Jim. Your insights into the emerging trends in the automotive world, driven by remarkable competition, are both refreshing and provocative.
**Jim Farley:** Thank you for having me. It’s an exciting time to be in this industry, and I can’t wait to see how it evolves.