Foxconn Will Manufacture EVs in the US, but Its Name Will Not Be Visible on Them | Carscoops

      The technology giant, recognized for producing iPhones, is entering the automotive sector as a contractor, rather than as a standalone brand.

      According to reports, Foxconn reached out to Nissan before the automaker engaged in discussions with competitor Honda instead.

      After merger talks fell apart, Foxconn proposed a partnership with three major Japanese car manufacturers.

      The company known for making the Apple iPhone has stated its readiness to produce electric vehicles (EVs) but will do so under partner brands rather than its own name.

      You might not be familiar with Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., but it’s likely you’ve heard about Foxconn, the Taiwanese tech powerhouse that assembles iPhones for Apple—its official name is indeed Hon Hai.

      Additionally, if you’ve kept up with automotive news, you may have noticed that tech companies are venturing beyond smartphones and laptops to actively participate in the automotive industry now that the demand for EVs has surged. This shift somewhat makes sense, as traditional car manufacturers strive to outpace one another by integrating advanced technology into their newest vehicles.

      Foxconn has stated its intention to produce a range of EVs.

      As consumers exhibit growing interest in sophisticated infotainment systems and electrification, which levels the playing field between newcomers and established companies in the automotive market, firms like Xiaomi, Huawei, and even Sony are seizing the opportunity.

      Foxconn recently gained attention for its interest in Nissan, which is facing significant challenges. However, Nissan seems more inclined to collaborate with Honda, although the suggested merger ultimately did not materialize.

      Enter Jun Seki, an executive at Foxconn who previously served as Nissan’s COO before former CEO Carlos Ghosn was removed from the company and prosecuted by Japanese officials. Seki asserts that Foxconn possesses the capability to manufacture a variety of EVs. Initially, these will be produced in Taiwan and distributed globally, though the company can also produce them locally to meet market demands.

      EVs for the U.S. market will be manufactured domestically.

      “It is appropriate to produce them in the markets where they are sold,” Seki stated, as reported by Autonews. “However, it is inefficient without a substantial number of units; hence, we are currently manufacturing in Taiwan as a temporary solution.”

      This approach is particularly wise considering the U.S. market, which ranks as the second largest globally after China. With Trump's new tariffs disrupting the industry and increasing the cost of imported vehicles, many established brands are halting shipments to formulate new strategies, leaving new entrants with no option but to produce their cars locally to remain competitive.

      Foxconn is already manufacturing the Model C midsize crossover, which has been sold in Taiwan since December 2023 as the Luxgen N7. Its international expansion will commence with the Model B minivan, set to launch in Taiwan in the latter half of the year and will be sold in Australia under a Japanese brand believed to be Mitsubishi. Furthermore, it plans to import the Model C to the U.S. in the fourth quarter for potential customers to test, with the stylish Model D minivan slated for introduction in 2027.

      Forming alliances with Japanese companies would be ideal.

      Following the stalled negotiations between Honda and Nissan, Foxconn reportedly suggested a partnership involving itself, Honda, Nissan, and Mitsubishi, highlighting its proficiency in advanced technology as a competitive edge for future models of the automakers.

      Seki confirmed that Foxconn is collaborating with Mitsubishi but did not provide further details. He did emphasize that Japanese manufacturers are excellent partners due to their commitment to quality. “Japanese automakers are meticulous planners, and we understand that while also being very efficient,” Seki noted. “We can execute tasks quickly while respecting Japanese caution.”

      Moreover, Seki clarified that Foxconn does not intend to introduce the EVs it develops under its own brand. Instead, similar to its electronics division, it will produce these vehicles for other brands, operating like the iPhone, thus positioning itself not as a competitor but as a valuable partner.