Jul 23, 2019

Ford hit with $1.2 billion lawsuit over F-150 mileage

Photo: Scott Olson/Getty Images

Ford is facing a class-action lawsuit accusing the company of falsifying fuel economy tests on its popular F-150 pickup trucks, costing truck owners an extra $2,000 in fuel.

Why it matters: Ford, which declined comment, is already facing a federal criminal investigation over emissions testing procedures for its 2019 Ford Ranger after employees raised concerns. The new lawsuit alleges Ford inflated mpg ratings by as much as 15% on the Ford F-150, which is the best-selling vehicle in America.

The bottom line: Aside from the lawsuit, Ford could be facing a heavy fine if the U.S. Justice Department finds wrongdoing. Volkswagen and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles have already paid huge fines for falsifying emissions tests, and Daimler, the parent of Mercedes-Benz, faces similar scrutiny.

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Joann Muller

Ford dives further into urban transit

Illustration: Aïda Amer/Axios

Ford is starting to position itself as more than a manufacturer of cars and trucks. It also wants to be an orchestrator of urban transit, helping cities move people efficiently from A to B.

The big picture: Legacy automakers are scrambling to reinvent themselves in the face of disruptive technologies like automated vehicles and car-sharing. Ford is trying to take a more holistic approach than others, partnering with urban planners to address their cities' current transportation problems while laying the technology foundation for tomorrow's AVs.

Go deeperJul 31, 2019

Joann Muller

Ford acquires transportation tech firm

Ford is acquiring another transit technology firm, Journey Holding, and expanding its efforts to reach beyond automobile manufacturing to help cities plan more seamless, efficient transportation networks.

Why it matters: Under CEO James Hackett, the 116-year-old carmaker is trying to reinvent itself as a mobility services provider. By collaborating with cities, civic organizations and urban planners, Ford wants to position itself as the orchestrator of multi-modal transportation systems, from scooter rental to mass transit and even future robo-taxis.

Go deeperJul 30, 2019

Joann Muller

GM vs. Ford on electrified AVs

Illustration: Lazaro Gamio/Axios

General Motors is laying down huge, simultaneous bets on electric cars and self-driving technology, a strategic gamble based on its belief that future automated vehicles will run only on electricity.

Why it matters: It's a risky bet that few can stomach, especially if EVs and AVs are slow to be accepted by consumers. Other carmakers, like Ford, see near-term limitations to battery-electric AVs and favor a more measured approach.

Go deeperAug 14, 2019