Ford Hires Apple Car Project Executive

Doug Field Joins Ford to Lead Advanced Technology Efforts

Ford Motor has appointed Doug Field, formerly a key engineering leader at Apple, to bolster its capabilities in software and cutting-edge technologies.

Field, who previously held the position of senior vice president of engineering at Tesla, has been named Ford’s chief advanced technology and embedded systems officer, effective Tuesday.

Responsibilities of the New Role

Reporting directly to Ford President and CEO Jim Farley, Field will assume leadership of the company’s embedded software and hardware division.

This encompasses crucial areas such as vehicle controls, enterprise connectivity, feature development, integration, validation, architectural design, driver assistance systems, and digital engineering tools.

Essentially, Field will be accountable for the complete technological infrastructure powering Ford and Lincoln vehicles.

This includes the design, development, and deployment of infotainment systems, navigation, driver-assist features, connected services, and vehicle cybersecurity measures.

Strategic Implications for Ford

This appointment is anticipated to significantly benefit Ford as it strives to demonstrate its ability to deliver vehicles—cars, trucks, and SUVs—equipped with advanced embedded technology.

The goal is to achieve a competitive standing alongside companies like Tesla and other emerging automotive innovators.

Field’s prior experience at Tesla, particularly his involvement with the Model 3 program, is expected to be invaluable as Ford expands its portfolio of electric vehicles.

Collaboration and Continued Leadership

Field will collaborate closely with Hau Thai-Tang, Ford’s chief product platform and operations officer, to shape the future of Ford’s connected products and user experiences.

Thai-Tang will retain oversight of product development, purchasing, design, research, advanced engineering, EPLM / D-Ford, advanced manufacturing, and Ford Ion Park.

A Return to Ford

This position represents a return to Ford for Field, who initially began his career with the automaker as a development engineer between 1987 and 1993.

Field’s Statement

“I’ve always felt a deep connection to Ford,” Field stated. “Ford products have been in my life as long as I can remember—F-150s on my dad’s farm, a ’65 Continental picking us up at my wedding and my thrill when I discovered the brilliant elegance in the design of the Model T.”

He further expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the development of the next generation of iconic Ford vehicles and to prepare the company for its future.