www.eetimes.com, Dec. 03, 2021 –
Responding to the ongoing global chip shortage and a severely disrupted semiconductor supply chain, IC makers are jumping at the opportunity to collaborate with customers to both increase chip inventories and boost profits.
A prime example is the recent announcement by GlobalFoundries and Ford Motor Co. to collaborate on expanding chip inventories for the carmaker and the broader U.S. automotive industry. The partnership includes a non-binding agreement that would enable GlobalFoundries to assume semiconductor research and production for Ford's current vehicle lineup.
The deal would open the door for chip advancements in battery management, self-driving systems and in-car data networking. Earlier, Ford announced it would redesign components to incorporate more widely-available devices. It also hinted at plans for supply deals with U.S.-based foundries that design and produce wafers.