Welcome to The Downshift, or TDS for short, The Drive’s morning news summary delivering the most significant automotive news globally.
Each entry in The Downshift features a link you can click for the full story. Here’s your update for Friday, July 17, 2026.
🧑🏭 Ford CEO Jim Farley recently discussed how the automaker has improved its initial quality in an interview, providing insightful commentary on the differences in manufacturing culture across its facilities in Mexico, China, the U.S., and beyond. “Cultural shifts exist between various nations and even within Ford’s own manufacturing culture that vary in their dedication to the process, and problem-solving is an acquired ability,” Farley stated. “The U.S. plants have adapted the most quickly. The most consistent have been some of our overseas facilities that I referenced.” [The Detroit News via Ford Authority]
📲 The Rivian R2 is still new to the market but has already rolled out its inaugural software update, introducing Launch Mode, Pet Comfort, and Gear Guard, a feature akin to Rivian’s take on Tesla’s Sentry Mode. [Autoblog]
🌏 Volvo CEO Hakan Samuelsson recently addressed comments made by White House senior trade advisor Peter Navarro, who asserted that Chinese automakers are “exploiting global car markets” and characterized BYD as “a microcosm of China’s predatory business model: copy, absorb, subsidize, scale, dump and dominate.” Samuelsson remarked that “we are experiencing a new competitive environment, and we have to acknowledge those who have excelled in electric vehicles,” noting that China’s manufacturers “have executed a number of strategies effectively.” [Automotive News]
📉 On that note, Volvo’s sales in China dipped by 35% in the second quarter, although the company anticipates that profits will bounce back in the latter half of 2026. [Reuters]
🪫 Honda has officially announced that its electric Prologue SUV will not have another model year, which was largely expected back in March, when reports surfaced about the company halting all of its EV initiatives and ending its partnership with General Motors. [Automotive News]
🍁 A recent report detailing Stellantis’ challenges in Canada reveals how dealerships are eager for new products. The automaker held a 15.4% market share in that region in 2015; a decade later, it had fallen to 6%. [Automotive News]
🫸 Foxconn had intended to sell its Model C EV in the U.S. through an American distribution partner, but the Taiwanese tech and automotive company has now stated that deal is on hold as the unnamed distributor considers the implications of tariffs. [Automotive News]
🐎 Ferrari had reportedly hoped to equip the 849 Testarossa with pop-up headlights, but opted for fixed units once it recognized that regulations in both China and the U.S. would prohibit such a feature. [CarExpert]
⚡ Geely has unveiled a new electric motor named “Thunder,” which is exceptionally efficient, compact, and lightweight, significantly reducing wiring and the number of components to deliver 328 horsepower within a small space. [InsideEVs]
🏁 Weekend racing events to catch (all times Eastern):
- WRC Rally Estonia: All weekend on Rally.TV
- NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series at North Wilkesboro Speedway: Saturday at 12:30 p.m. on FS1
- Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix: Sunday at 9 a.m. on Apple TV
- IndyCar in Nashville: Sunday at 5:30 p.m. on Fox
- NASCAR Cup Series at North Wilkesboro Speedway: Sunday at 7 p.m. on TNT
- NHRA Drag Racing Sonoma Nationals Finals: Sunday at 10 p.m. on FS1
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**Ford CEO Jim Farley Reveals U.S. Plants Are Bridging the Divide with China and Mexico**
In recent remarks, Ford CEO Jim Farley pointed out notable advancements in the company’s U.S. manufacturing capabilities, indicating that they are bridging the competitive gap with production sites in China and Mexico. This development is part of a larger industry movement focused on bringing manufacturing back home and enhancing domestic production abilities.
**Manufacturing Approach and Investments**
Farley accentuated Ford’s dedication to investing in U.S. factories, which has become a vital component of the firm’s strategy to improve efficiency and lessen dependence on foreign manufacturing. The automaker has directed considerable resources toward modernizing its plants, integrating cutting-edge technologies and automation to enhance productivity. This financial commitment aims not just to boost output but also to enable Ford to react more promptly to market demands.
**Competitive Edge**
A significant factor contributing to the shrinking gap is the rising costs linked to manufacturing in China and Mexico, such as labor expenses and supply chain interruptions. Farley highlighted that as these costs rise, the competitive edge these countries once held is fading. Ford’s U.S. plants are increasingly appealing for production due to their ability to utilize local supply chains, minimize shipping times, and improve quality assurance.
**Emphasis on Electric Vehicles**
A crucial element of Ford’s strategy is its shift towards electric vehicles (EVs). The company has unveiled plans to invest billions in EV manufacturing in the U.S., which aligns with the increasing demand for sustainable transportation options. By concentrating on EVs, Ford aspires to position its U.S. plants as frontrunners in this burgeoning market, further strengthening their competitiveness against overseas production.
**Development of Workforce**
Farley also highlighted the significance of workforce development in narrowing the gap with global competitors. Ford has been proactively working to enhance its workforce’s skills, ensuring that employees are prepared to handle advanced manufacturing technologies. This investment in human resources is crucial for maintaining high production standards and fostering innovation.
**Prospective Outlook**
Looking forward, Farley expressed hope regarding the future of Ford’s U.S. manufacturing operations. The company’s strategic efforts are anticipated to yield significant advantages, not only in terms of production efficiency but also in bolstering the overall competitiveness of American manufacturing in the global automotive arena. As Ford continues to innovate and adapt to evolving market conditions, the gap with China and Mexico is likely to further reduce, positioning the company for enduring success.
In summary, Jim Farley’s perspectives signify a transformative phase for Ford’s U.S. plants, marked by strategic investments, an emphasis on electric vehicles, and a dedication to workforce development. These initiatives are critical in reshaping the automotive manufacturing landscape and ensuring that U.S. operations remain competitive on an international scale.