Ford’s CEO Jim Hackett has opened a London-based smart mobility innovation office.

The office, opened on October 18, will target the near-term development of smart mobility technologies while focusing on the specific requirements of European cities.

The new office gives a dedicated team of Ford specialists, led by smart mobility director Sarah-Jayne Williams, easy access to world-class digital companies, leading academic institutions, nimble start-ups, and existing partners, a statment issued by the US car giant revealed.

Ford continues to work on projects with the city to help improve air quality, ease congestion and broaden mobility for Londoners.

Having an office in London offers Ford close proximity to its projects and partners; including the plug-in hybrid Transit trial due to launch later this year.

“London is not only one of Europe’s biggest mega-cities, it is also one of the most progressive in its openness to new ideas and new partners, as we work together to create smart vehicles for a smart world,” said Hackett (pictured).

“Here East is the perfect location for Ford’s European smart mobility hub with Plexal’s incredible talent pool and start-up diversity right on the doorstep.”

The London office joins Ford’s existing smart mobility offices in Dearborn and Palo Alto.