Ford Motor Company’s electric vehicle and technology chief Doug Field has left the automaker, according to internal sources familiar with the matter. Field, who joined Ford in 2021 after high-profile stints at Apple and Tesla, played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s EV strategy during a critical transition period.
The departure comes as Ford re-evaluates its $50 billion EV investment plan amid slowing demand for electric vehicles industry-wide. Field led development of Ford’s next-generation EV platform and oversaw the integration of Silicon Valley-style software development into legacy automotive processes.
‘Doug brought invaluable experience from the tech sector during a transformative time for Ford,’ said one company insider who requested anonymity. ‘His departure signals a potential strategic shift as the company balances EV ambitions with current market realities.’
Analysts note Field’s exit follows similar high-profile departures across the auto industry as manufacturers adjust to changing EV adoption rates. Ford recently delayed production of some electric models while doubling down on hybrid offerings.
The move raises questions about the timeline for Ford’s next-generation EV architecture, previously slated for 2027. Industry watchers will be monitoring whether Field’s replacement comes from traditional automotive or technology backgrounds.