POWERTRAINS AT THE CROSSROADS - AUTOLINE THIS WEEK 2227

EV Channels Review

This episode of Autoline This Week features Dave Filipe, VP of Powertrain Engineering at Ford, discussing the company's complex strategy for navigating the evolving automotive powertrain landscape. Ford is committed to a 'power of choice' approach, investing heavily in both internal combustion engines (ICE) and electrified vehicles, including battery electrics (BEVs) and hybrids. Filipe highlights the significant $11 billion investment in electrified products while emphasizing continued ICE development for its capabilities and customer demand, particularly in the F-150 lineup. The discussion touches on the potential of zero-carbon liquid fuels, the role of electrification in performance, and the challenges and progress in reducing BEV costs to achieve profitability, with a target timeframe of 2022-2025 for net profits. While Ford dissolved its fuel cell joint venture, they remain open to the technology, especially for heavier vehicles. The conversation also explores the future of diesel, particularly in trucks like the F-150, and the ongoing exploration of powertrain synergies and partnerships with other OEMs, including Volkswagen.