Ford CEO Jim Farley on Vehicle Affordability and the Skilled Trades Gap

An exclusive interview with Ford CEO Jim Farley examines U.S. car affordability, rising vehicle prices and longer loan terms, and a new alliance promoting skilled trades careers. It also sets up further conversations with leaders from BlackRock, Google, and Carhartt about skilled workers in an AI-driven future.

■ Vehicle affordability trends
- Record average new-car prices above $50,000 and rising used-car prices
- More debt, longer terms such as 84-month financing, and monthly payments of $1,000 or more

■ Ford’s affordability response
- Farley acknowledges customer squeeze and outlines plans for a $30,000 pickup, an affordable EV, and five more affordable vehicles

■ Skilled trades alliance
- Expected 1.7 million annual openings through 2035 and trade school shortfalls
- High-paying roles and the need to expose young Americans to these paths

■ Upcoming conversations
- Farley and leaders from BlackRock, Google, and Carhartt on skilled workers in an AI future

Viewers interested in automotive market trends, labor economics, and workforce development will gain an overview of the affordability debate and the skilled trades push. The segment may help viewers understand key cost and employment issues to follow in future reporting.