Ford is putting a lot of emphasis on China’s electric vehicle market. Last month Ford signed a deal with Zotye to produce electric vehicles for buyers in China and now its signed an agreement with Alibaba to find new ways to sell the EVs in China.
In a statement, Ford says that the two companies have agreed to explore a strategic collaboration to jointly identify new opportunities to redefine consumer retail experiences and explore solutions for sustainable mobility. The new opportunities that are hinted at, could include selling Ford’s cars on Alibaba’s online retail platform Tmall.
Under the new three-year agreement Ford will cooperate with Alibaba’s four business units in operation system, cloud computing, digital marketing and online retail respectively – namely AliOS, Alibaba Cloud, Alimama and Tmall.
“China is one of the world’s largest and most dynamic digital markets, thriving on innovation with customers’ online and offline experiences converging rapidly. Collaborating with leading technology players builds on our vision for smart vehicles in a smart world to reimagine and revolutionize consumers’ mobility experiences,’’ said Jim Hackett, Ford’s President and CEO.
“Alibaba is excited to redefine the consumer journey and user experience for automobiles together with Ford Motors,” said Alibaba Group Chief Executive Officer Daniel Zhang. “Our data-driven technology and platform will expand the definition of car ownership beyond just having a mode of transportation and into a new medium for smart lifestyle.”
Source: Ford