Ford dismisses ITC criticism over SK Innovation battery deals

Ford Motor on Friday rejected criticism from the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) over its decision to pursue battery contracts with SK Innovation.

The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) on Thursday criticized the automaker for pursuing battery contracts with SK Innovation after evidence had emerged the South Korean electric vehicle (EV) battery maker misappropriated trade secrets from rival LG Chem.

“Contrary to the ITC’s assumption, Ford was committed to three additional battery programs tied to SK Innovation before any misconduct had surfaced,” the automaker said, adding that “key facts” would have emerged if the ITC “conducted a public interest hearing”.

Ford added that it does not condone the actions SK Innovation is being alleged of – particularly misappropriating trade secrets and destroying evidence in the course of a probe.