The US administration on Tuesday criticized Ford Motor over its ties with Chinese companies, with Washington’s political intervention reaching deeper into technology licensing, supply chains and routine commercial cooperation between companies in the two countries. Analysts said the move could ultimately constrain US automakers themselves, which are under pressure to cut electrification costs and keep pace with a fast-changing global industry.

In a letter to Ford CEO Jim Farley, U.S. DOT Secretary Sean Duffy questioned the automaker's strategic trajectory involving Chinese companies.

US officials criticise Ford’s partnerships with Chinese firms CATL, Geely and BYD over security risks.