• John Lawler, vice chair of Ford Motor Company, has been appointed board member of ACEA, the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association
• Lawler will advocate for a more competitive European auto industry and swift delivery of enabling conditions for a successful transition to e-mobility
• As the European Commission publishes its Automotive Action Plan, Lawler will stress the need for more flexibility in meeting emissions targets, as EV demand remains below forecasts 
• Ford is a founding member of ACEA; the appointment of John Lawler highlights Ford’s ongoing commitment to Europe and its strategic relevance to Ford’s global operations

BRUSSELS, March 4, 2025 – Ford today announced that John Lawler, vice chair of Ford Motor Company, has been appointed to join the board of ACEA, the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association, of which Ford is a founding member. Ford has 32,000 employees in Europe, with manufacturing operations in Germany, Spain, Romania, Türkiye, and the U.K.

“ACEA is the leading voice of the European auto sector, working towards a new era of mobility, where all Europeans can access affordable and safe transport solutions. I look forward to strengthening Ford’s seat at the table as the industry works to successfully transition to e-mobility,” said John Lawler.  “I am encouraged by the leadership of President von der Leyen and the urgency of the European Commission to address the critical questions of compliance flexibility, industrial cost competitiveness, and stronger enabling conditions. Collaboration between all stakeholders is essential to making the transition work.”

His appointment reflects Ford’s ongoing commitment to Europe. It comes at a time of unprecedented challenges for the European automotive industry. The absence of stable framework conditions, rising competition from Chinese auto manufacturers, and high operating costs have created challenges for the sector. Additionally, demand for electric vehicles is not aligned with European emission targets.

“Ford has century-long history in Europe and the market remains strategically important to our global business,” said Jim Farley, Ford’s CEO.  “But Europe is at a crossroads.  High industrial and labor costs, Chinese competition, and weak demand for electric vehicles must be addressed by European Governments.  John will be working closely with leaders in Europe to strengthen policies that help Ford’s customers transition to clean mobility.”

Added Lawler: “As the leading commercial vehicle brand in Europe, Ford is committed to enabling businesses to transition to clean mobility. Small and medium-sized enterprises are the backbone of European economies, but face cost and regulatory hurdles in switching to electric that are often overlooked and under-supported by policymakers. During my tenure on the ACEA board I will work with my peers to ensure the needs of both commercial and retail customers are front and center in the policy debate.”