F.US Overview

US-China Preparations for State Visit: The US and China are preparing for President Trump's state visit from March 31 to April 2, focusing on revitalizing mutual investments through joint ventures and licensing agreements.

Investment Protection Concerns: China has raised concerns about investment protection amid increasing US scrutiny of Chinese investments, while discussions also included Chinese companies listing and US market access.

Example of Collaboration: The agreement between FORD and CATL serves as a reference for potential collaborations, where FORD will license battery technology from CATL for use in its US factories.

Market Dynamics: The article notes the impact of proposed US energy storage bans on companies like CATL and highlights the current market conditions, including short selling data.

Ford's CEO Discussion: Jim Farley, CEO of Ford Motor, engaged with US government officials about permitting Chinese automakers to establish joint ventures in the US, with American firms maintaining a controlling interest.

Joint Ventures Details: These proposed joint ventures would facilitate the sharing of profits and technology between US and Chinese automakers.

BYD's Sales Achievement: BYD COMPANY surpassed Ford Motor in global sales for the first time in 2025, selling 4.6 million units compared to Ford's 4.4 million units.

Market Position: This milestone positions BYD among the top five global automakers by sales volume, according to reports from Chinese media.

Stellantis Restructuring: Stellantis will incur an impairment charge of approximately EUR22 billion (about US$26 billion) as part of a large-scale restructuring due to high costs and weak EV sales.

Cash Expenses: The impairment charge includes around EUR6.5 billion in cash expenses, similar to actions taken by other automakers like Ford and General Motors.

New Strategic Plan: This decision is part of Stellantis's new strategic plan, which is set to be announced in May.

Financial Impact Timeline: The expenses related to the impairment charge will be reflected in the Group's financial statements for the second half of 2025.

Potential Partnership: Ford Motor and GEELY AUTO are in discussions for a partnership that would allow GEELY AUTO to utilize Ford's European factory space for vehicle production aimed at the European market.

Technology Sharing: The two companies are also exploring a framework for sharing automotive technologies, particularly in the area of autonomous driving.

Joint Venture Talks: Ford Motor is reportedly in discussions with Xiaomi to establish a joint venture in the US for electric vehicle manufacturing, according to the Financial Times.

Xiaomi's Denial: Xiaomi has denied the reports, stating that it is not currently selling products in the US and is not engaged in any negotiations with Ford.

Ford's Response: Ford has also refuted the claims, labeling the reports as entirely fabricated and lacking factual basis.

Market Context: The news comes amid significant short selling activity on Xiaomi's stock, with a reported short selling value of $1.01 billion and a ratio of 19.946%.