Ford Motor hired Doug Field, an engineering executive who had been leading Apple's special projects team. This is as Ford Motor seeks to get an advantage in software and advanced technology.
Field was previously the senior vice president of Engineering at Tesla. He was appointed Tuesday as Ford's chief technology and embedded system officer. Field was previously vp for Apple Special Projects. This team was also working on the so-called Titan Car project.
Field will report to Jim Farley, Ford President and CEO. He will also oversee embedded software and hardware. This includes vehicle controls, enterprise connectivity and features, validation, architecture, platform, driver assistance technology, and digital engineering tools. Field will be responsible to design, develop and implement the entire tech stack that is used in Ford and Lincoln-branded vehicles. This includes infotainment and navigation, driver-assist technologies, connected services, and vehicle cybersecurity.
Ford could benefit from the hire, as it wants to prove to investors and customers that it can produce cars, trucks, and SUVs that are equipped with embedded technology comparable with Tesla and other recent entrants. Ford could benefit from Fields' experience with Tesla's Model 3 and other electric vehicles.
Ford stated that Field would work closely with Hau Thailand-Tang (Fords chief product platform & operations officer), to develop the next generation Fords connected products. Thai-Tang will still oversee product development, purchasing and design as well as advanced manufacturing, Ford Ion Park, and EPLM/D-Ford.
Field, who was a Ford development engineer between 1987 and 1993, will be returning to Ford.
Ford has always been a part of my life. Ford products have been a part of my life for as long as my father has owned them. I also remember a 1965 Continental taking me to my wedding, and F-150s at my dad's farm. Field stated that it was my excitement when I saw the Model T's stunning elegance. I am grateful to have the opportunity to work with the Ford team on the next generation of iconic Ford cars and help prepare Ford for the next 100 years.
