FORD’S commitment to developing a future in autonomous vehicles has been confirmed by the appointment of former Apple self-driving specialist Doug Field.

Mr Field joins Ford as chief officer of advanced technology and embedded systems.

He will partner closely with Ford chief product platform and operations officer Hau Thai-Tang to create the next generation of Ford’s connected products and experiences at the foundation of the ‘Ford+’ growth plan.

Mr Field was previously vice president of special projects at Apple and before that, senior vice president of engineering at Tesla. He began his career with Ford in the 1980s.

Ford CEO Jim Farley described Mr Field as “one of the world’s most respected engineering and product design leaders and has been a driving force behind breakthrough products across auto, tech and mobility – including at Apple, Tesla and Segway”.

Mr Field said he was “thrilled to be joining Ford as it embraces a transition to a new, complex and fascinating period in the auto industry”.

“It will be a privilege to help Ford deliver a new generation of experiences built on the shift to electrification, software and digital experiences, and autonomy.

“I’m committed to helping the team make those experiences seamless, delightful and continually advancing over time.”

His experience is expected to provide Ford with valuable intelligence regarding Apple’s plans and flow into the new-car market.

Apple has yet to announce a replacement. The company does not publicise its EV projects but recently was rumoured to have bought Chrysler’s former proving grounds in Arizona for US$125 million ($A168 million), while Asian media said Apple executives had travelled to South Korea and Japan to meet with representatives from the auto industry.

By Neil Dowling