Shanghai (ZXZC)- Ford Motor has started operation of FMeT, its subsidiary focusing on the R&D and operation of intelligent electric vehicles (EVs) in China, marking a new milestone in Ford China's boost on electrification strategy, the U.S. automaker announced today via its WeChat account.

FMeT plays a vital role in Ford Motor's localized electrification strategy for the Chinese market, said the carmaker. It is the first independent intelligent EV-dedicated entity in the country that is founded by a foreign automobile brand.

Photo credit: Ford Motor

With the launch of the high-end intelligent EV-focused brand, Ford Select, Ford Motor has built an independent EV direct-sale network in China, which has been composed of 106 sales outlets in 43 cities. The first flagship store under Ford Select will open for business at the end of this year.

In terms of R&D, FMeT will endeavor to develop the technologies about automobile electrification and intelligence, building a comprehensive R&D system based on the electrification center, the digital experience center, and the ADAS center.

Notably, the digital experience center will be dedicated to developing advanced intelligent cockpit and mobile connectivity solutions that meet Chinese users' demands. The ADAS center will make full use of the BlueOval intelligent technology stack resource advantage Ford Motor has deployed worldwide and team up with local companies to develop technologies based on China's road and traffic conditions, so as to speed up the deployment and iteration of Ford's new-generation BlueCruise active driver assistance system in China.