Just like Tesla did last year, Ford on Thursday announced that it has opened up its portfolio of patented technologies so competitors can incorporate those technologies into their electric vehicles. In the press release, Ford states that this was done in order to accelerate the innovation rate in the electric vehicle industry. Electric vehicles manufacturers now have ability to license more than 650 with approximately 1000 pending electrified vehicle patents from Ford. Ford’s Director of Electrified Powertrain Engineering Kevin Layden encourages competitors to open up their patent portfolio in order to help the growth of the industry. “As an industry, we need to collaborate while we continue to challenge each other,” said Layden. “By sharing ideas, companies can solve bigger challenges and help improve the industry.” Unlike Tesla, manufacturers wanting to add Ford’s patented technologies to their vehicles, will have to pay a fee to Ford – Tesla patents are available to be used without any licensing fees.
