Driving into a software-defined future, Ford launches a new unit to transform vehicles into digital platforms, shifting design, electrification, and customer experiences worldwide.
Ford Motor Company has announced the creation of a new division, the ‘Product Creation and Industrialisation’ unit, which will oversee one of the most extensive product, software and services rollouts in the company’s history.
The unit integrates Ford’s electric vehicle (EV), Digital and Design teams with its global Industrial System and will be led by Chief Operating Officer Kumar Galhotra.
By 2030, Ford expects 90% of its vehicles, by volume, to feature updated electrical architectures, in-house hardware, continuous over-the-air software capabilities, and enhanced customer experiences.
The company said the reorganisation is intended to accelerate decision-making, reduce complexity and strengthen its ability to deliver software-defined vehicles. The new unit will also play a central role in Ford’s target of achieving an 8% adjusted EBIT margin by 2029.
Ford’s ‘skunkworks’ team, which developed the Universal Electric Vehicle (UEV) platform, will continue under Alan Clarke, who has been promoted to Vice President of Advanced Vehicle Development Projects. The UEV platform incorporates a zonal architecture, in-house software controls, and advanced driver assistance systems, enabling the rapid deployment of technologies such as BlueCruise and the Ford Digital Experience.
Future vehicles planned under this framework include a midsize pickup, next-generation F-150 and F-Series Super Duty.
The company aims to refresh 80% of its North American portfolio and 70% of its global portfolio by 2029, with electrified powertrains expected in 90% of global models by 2030. Ford highlighted that innovations from its advanced EV development team, including more efficient electric motors, will also benefit hybrid vehicles.
As part of the transition, Doug Field, who joined Ford from Apple and previously worked at Tesla, will leave the company next month. Kieran Cahill, Vice President of Manufacturing for Europe and IMG, will retire on 1 May 2026 after a 37-year career.
