Ford Motor has employed Doug Field, the engineering government who was main Apple’s particular tasks crew, because the automaker seeks to achieve an edge in software program and different superior expertise.

Field, who beforehand was senior vice chairman of engineering at Tesla, was named Tuesday as Ford’s chief superior expertise and embedded techniques officer. Field was most lately vp of Apple Special Projects, a crew that was additionally engaged on its so-called Titan automobile challenge.

In this new place, Field will report on to Ford President and CEO Jim Farley and oversee the corporate’s embedded software program and {hardware} group, which right now consists of car controls, enterprise connectivity, options, integration and validation, structure and platform, driver help expertise and digital engineering instruments. This means Field can be accountable for the design, growth and implementation of your entire tech stack utilized in Ford and Lincoln branded automobiles, together with infotainment, navigation, driver-assist expertise, linked companies and car cybersecurity.

The rent may very well be a boon for Ford, which desires to point out prospects and buyers that it may supply automobiles, vehicles and SUVs with a degree of embedded expertise that competes with the likes of Tesla and different newer entrants. Field’s expertise at Tesla, particularly with the Model 3, may additionally show vital for Ford because it develops and rolls out new electrical automobiles.

Ford stated that Field will work intently with Hau Thai-Tang, Ford’s chief product platform and operations officer, to create the subsequent era of Ford’s linked merchandise and experiences. Thai-Tang will proceed to supervise product growth, buying, design, analysis and superior engineering, EPLM / D-Ford, superior manufacturing and Ford Ion Park.

The job marks a return for Field who started his profession at Ford as a growth engineer from 1987 to 1993.

“I’ve always felt a deep connection to Ford. Ford products have been in my life as long as I can remember — F-150s on my dad’s farm, a ’65 Continental picking us up at my wedding and my thrill when I discovered the brilliant elegance in the design of the Model T,” Field stated in an announcement. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to help the team build the next generation of iconic Ford vehicles and prepare Ford for the next hundred years.”