In early February 2026, a report from the Financial Times ignited major controversy by claiming that Ford Motor Company and Chinese tech giant Xiaomi had explored a potential electric vehicle (EV) partnership. According to the report, the two companies allegedly discussed forming a joint venture to manufacture EVs in the United States a move that would have reshaped the global automotive landscape. However, both Ford and Xiaomi have since issued firm denials, calling the claims “completely false.”
What the Financial Times Report Claimed
The Financial Times cited four sources familiar with the matter, stating that Ford had considered partnering with Xiaomi to gain access to its advanced EV software platform and cost-efficient manufacturing expertise. In return, Xiaomi would gain an entry point into the U.S. auto market. The report also suggested Ford had reached out to other Chinese automakers, including BYD, regarding battery technology and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs).
These claims quickly gained traction across financial and automotive media, triggering political and regulatory scrutiny in Washington.
Official Responses from Ford and Xiaomi
Ford moved swiftly to shut down the speculation. Mark Truby, Ford’s Chief Communications Officer, posted on X that the story was “completely false” and that there were no discussions with Xiaomi. Xiaomi echoed the denial in a statement, clarifying that it does not sell vehicles in the U.S. and is not negotiating partnerships to do so.
The dual denials appeared to close the door on the rumored collaboration, but questions lingered over why the report gained such momentum.
Why the Rumor Seemed Plausible
Ford CEO Jim Farley has publicly praised Xiaomi’s SU7 electric sedan, even revealing in late 2024 that he had one shipped from Shanghai and drove it for months. Farley has also warned that Chinese automakers represent an “existential threat” to Western carmakers due to their cost advantages and rapid innovation cycles.
Additionally, shifting political rhetoric around Chinese manufacturing investment in the U.S. added fuel to the speculation, especially amid Ford’s ongoing scrutiny over its Michigan battery plant using licensed technology from China’s CATL.
Political Backlash and Industry Impact
The report sparked immediate backlash from lawmakers, including Rep. John Moolenaar, who warned that any Ford-Xiaomi partnership would undermine U.S. technological independence and increase reliance on Chinese supply chains.
Current Status
As of February 2, 2026, both companies have officially denied any discussions. Xiaomi remains focused on its booming Chinese EV business and retail expansion in Europe, while Ford is recalibrating its EV strategy toward hybrids and smaller, more affordable electric vehicles to compete against China’s manufacturing dominance.
