Ford is steadfastly focused on creating a strong business that builds great products that contribute to a better world. As part of our plan, we continue to press forward to globalize vehicle platforms that can be adapted to meet specific regional needs. Flexible manufacturing capabilities allow us to bring products to market with greater speed and efficiency than ever before.
Our commitment to innovation is supported by four principles that inform and guide every design and engineering effort: to be best in class in quality, safety, fuel efficiency and the "smart technologies" that make the driving and riding experience easier and more enjoyable. We are working to continually raise the bar on quality and safety. Fuel efficiency and smart technologies are strategically important because green technology and smart innovations are helping us serve our customers and differentiate Ford.
Our sustainability strategy has helped us to understand the global challenges driving the need for innovation in these areas and positions us to succeed in delivering them. We believe that we have been able to weather these last difficult years because our business strategy and our sustainability strategy are aligned and intertwined.
But we're far from complacent and we're continuing to address adverse conditions. Notwithstanding many positive signs of an economic recovery, the global business environment remains extraordinarily challenging, with increasingly intense competition from other automakers. We know the road ahead won't be easy.
We are focused on our future and our ultimate objective: profitable growth for all. Our ONE Ford transformation plan was developed in 2007 to create a leaner, more-efficient global enterprise. It is anchored by four key priorities:
- Aggressive restructuring to operate profitably at current demand and changing model mix
- Accelerated development of new products our customers want and value
- Financing the plan and improving our balance sheet
- Working together effectively as one team to leverage our global assets
For more on Ford’s sustainability strategy, view the 2010/2011 sustainability report.
