Henry Ford was an engineer from Detroit, Michigan who had an idea. By 1902, Ford had attempted several times to produce a gas powered vehicle, but with little capital, he realized that his attempts were futile. Ford approached a man by the name of Alexander T. Malcomson about the possibility of manufacturing an automobile. Malcomson, a friend of the family and wealthy coal merchant was reluctant at first but finally agreed with Ford, and decided to assit Ford financially with his endeavor. With Malcomsons investment and Ford's engineering skills a partnership was formed and in mid June of 1903, papers of incorporation for the Ford Motor Company were filed in Dearborn, Michigan.Despite nearing bankruptcy on a few occasions, the company finally took off with the launch of their first car- the Model A, and by 1920 approximately 60% of all automobiles on the road were Ford. Today Ford is the largest truck maker and the number two manufacturer of cars in North America, producing an average of eight cars or trucks per minute. The Ford Motor Company employs 371 702 people at over 2400 branches in 33 countries and sells automobiles in over 200 markets.VISION STATEMENTOur vision is to be the world's leading automotive company, from the viewpoint of our customers, shareholders and employees.Consumer focus, strong global brands, leading quality and values, nimble leadership and teamwork, corporate citizenship, and a passion for growth are the key elements of Ford's "Vision and Strategy Pyramid" (see appendix) of becoming the world's leading consumer based company that provides automotive products and services. This pyramid provides a summary of the ways that Ford is upholding it's commitment to success. The foundation of this pyramid, and the root of Ford's vision statement is the consumer. It is this consumer based focus the has been the key to Ford's transformation, growth and success over the years.FORD'S COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGESToday's...
