How Ford plans to tackle the electronic components shortage
Although largely foreseen, the shortage of certain electronic components is starting to hit the automotive sector. While some manufacturers, such as Volkswagen, have been suspending production due to the lack of electronic components, others, such as Tesla, are announcing delays, while BMW is removing certain options.
To help prevent the firm being caught unprepared, Ford has decided to partner with GlobalFoundries for the supply of chips for its future cars. The US company is now one of the largest independent semiconductor foundries in the world.
The agreement covers an initial supply of semiconductors for Ford’s current range of vehicles, as well as for all its research and development. The idea is to provide chips dedicated to the vehicle’s driving assistance system, but also to everything that concerns the management of the battery and the various on-board networks involved in making the car safer and more autonomous.
By collaborating with an independent manufacturer, Ford hopes to gain independence from the giants of the semiconductor sector. Others could soon move in similar directions.
