Ford’s efforts to improve fuel economy and push into alternative fuels dominated Ford’s annual shareholder meeting on Thursday, according to Reuters.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more


Shareholders were concerned about the impact of rising fuel prices on Ford’s profitability. High fuel prices are thought to be one of the major reasons that demand for pick-ups and large sport-utility vehicles has fallen recently.


In addition to working on ethanol, biofuels and hybrids, Bill Ford said that the company is also looking keenly at plug-in hybrid technology. Also known as electric hybrids, this technology has a larger battery which can be powered by mains electricity, as well as by an on-board generator, as is the case in current hybrids such as the Toyota Prius.


Bill Ford also said that the company is focusing on fast-growing markets in Asia and eastern Europe to boost sales and profits, according to Reuters. He said that Ford’s markets such as Turkey, Russia, India and China are critical and that Ford is “pursusing them aggressively”.


Bill Ford also confirmed that the company will go ahead with plans for a reality television show, and that he will continue to forgo any new remuneration until the automotive unit has made sustained profits.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.