VW, Ford forge ahead with technology sharing to save costs

A Ford self-driving delivery vehicle in New York City, New York. Ford’s strategy has been set back by the viral outbreak, with a multi-city commercial rollout of robotaxis and driverless delivery pods in the US delayed until 2022. — Abaca Press/TNS

Volkswagen AG and Ford Motor Co are pushing ahead with plans to team up on electric and self-driving vehicles even as the coronavirus derails other projects, according to people familiar with the matter.

The deal is expected to close by the end of next month, with both sides recognising a need to share the large investments needed to develop battery-powered and autonomous cars, said the people, who asked not to be identified as the negotiations are private.