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2026 Who Brands. All information is provided for educational purposes. Brand names and logos are trademarks of their respective owners.

  1. Home
  2. Brands
  3. Automotive
  4. Lincoln
Lincoln logo
Automotive

Who Owns Lincoln?

Lincoln is owned by Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F), an American multinational automotive manufacturer headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan. Founded in 1917 by Henry Leland and acquired by Ford in 1922 for $8 million, Lincoln operates as Ford's luxury vehicle division. In 2025, Lincoln recorded its second consecutive year of U.S. sales topping 100,000 vehicles, with the Navigator achieving its best sales year since 2007 at 22,185 units (up 42.8%). Ford reported FY2025 total company wholesale volumes of approximately 4,395,000 vehicles worldwide.

Parent Company

Ford Motor Company

Founded

1917

Status

Publicly Traded

Headquarters

Detroit, Michigan, USA

Lincoln Timeline

1903
Ford Motor Company

Parent company established in Dearborn, Michigan, USA

Company Founded
1917

Lincoln

Founded by Henry Leland

Founded
mid rangemass marketGlobalall-ageselectric vehiclessustainable manufacturingluxury sustainabilityamerican heritageenvironmental innovationOfficial Website

Who Owns Lincoln?

  • Parent Company: Ford Motor Company
  • Ownership Type: Subsidiary
  • Company Type: Publicly Traded
  • Stock Ticker: NYSE: F
BrandParent CompanyOwnership Type
LincolnFord Motor CompanySubsidiary

Where to Buy

Disclosure: We may earn commission from purchases
AmazonLincoln on Amazon

History of Lincoln

  • Founded: 1917
  • Founders: Henry Leland

Lincoln was founded in 1917 by Henry Leland and his son Wilfred Leland in Detroit, Michigan. Henry Leland was already a legendary figure in the American automotive industry, having previously founded Cadillac in 1902 and sold it to General Motors in 1909. Leland named the new company Lincoln after Abraham Lincoln, whom he had voted for in his first presidential election in 1864.

Lincoln initially struggled financially, and in 1922, Ford Motor Company acquired Lincoln for $8 million. Henry Ford's son Edsel Ford took a keen interest in Lincoln and championed the brand's development, overseeing the creation of some of Lincoln's most iconic designs. Under Edsel Ford's influence, Lincoln became known for its elegant, custom-bodied vehicles and its association with American presidential transport.

Lincoln's most famous historical connection is its role as the official presidential state car. The Lincoln Continental was used by President John F. Kennedy and was the vehicle in which he was assassinated in Dallas in 1963. The brand has maintained its association with presidential transport for decades, with custom Lincoln limousines serving as the official presidential state car through multiple administrations.

During the mid-20th century, Lincoln produced some of its most iconic designs, including the 1956-1957 Continental Mark II (considered one of the most beautiful American cars ever made), the 1961-1969 Continental (known for its suicide doors), and the 1977-1979 Continental Mark V. These vehicles established Lincoln's reputation for distinctive American luxury design.

In the 2000s and 2010s, Lincoln struggled to maintain relevance against Japanese luxury brands (Lexus, Acura, Infiniti) and German luxury brands (BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi). Ford invested in a brand revival beginning around 2012, repositioning Lincoln as a more premium, design-forward brand with a focus on SUVs. The Lincoln Navigator, Aviator, Corsair, and Nautilus form the current SUV-focused lineup.

About Ford Motor Company

Is Ford Motor publicly traded?
Yes. Ford Motor Company trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol F. The company has been publicly traded since its IPO in 1956. The Ford family maintains significant voting control through special Class B shares, giving them approximately 40% of voting power.

Who is the CEO of Ford Motor Company?
Jim Farley is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Ford Motor Company. He took over in October 2020 and has led the company's reorganization into three segments (Ford Blue, Model e, and Ford Pro) and the strategic pivot in electric vehicle strategy.

What was Ford's revenue in 2025?
Ford reported record revenue of $187.3 billion for fiscal year 2025, up 1% from $185 billion in 2024. This was the fifth consecutive year of full-year revenue growth. However, the company reported a net loss of $8.2 billion due to $15.5 billion in special charges related to EV restructuring.

How much did Ford's EV unit lose in 2025?
Ford's Model e electric vehicle segment posted an operating loss of $4.8 billion in 2025, an improvement from a $5.1 billion loss in 2024. The segment is expected to lose $4.0-$4.5 billion in 2026. Ford has pushed back Model e profitability to 2029.

What is Ford's electric vehicle strategy?
Ford has pivoted from expensive pure electric vehicles to focus on hybrids, extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs), and affordable EVs. The F-150 Lightning is being retooled as an EREV with a gas-powered generator. The company is developing a midsize pickup truck for 2027 and targeting 8% adjusted EBIT margin by 2029.

How many people does Ford employ?
Ford Motor Company employs approximately 169,000 people worldwide across manufacturing, engineering, sales, and administrative functions.

What brands does Ford own?
Ford Motor Company's vehicle brands are Ford and Lincoln. The Ford brand includes iconic nameplates such as the F-150, Mustang, Explorer, Bronco, and Transit. Lincoln is the company's luxury brand, including the Navigator, Aviator, and Nautilus.

  • Founded: 1903
  • Headquarters: Dearborn, Michigan, USA
  • Company Type: Publicly Traded
  • Stock: NYSE: F
  • Revenue: $187.3B (FY2025)
  • Employees: ~169,000

Visit Ford Motor Company website

View full company profile for Ford Motor Company

Where Is Lincoln Made / Based?

  • Headquarters: Detroit, Michigan, USA
  • Manufacturing / Operations: United States, China

Lincoln Categories & Tags

LuxuryAutomotivePremium VehiclesAmerican LuxuryFordAmerican Brand

Lincoln Sustainability & Ethics

Lincoln operates under Ford Motor Company's comprehensive sustainability framework that addresses environmental responsibility, ethical business practices, and social impact within the automotive industry. As Ford's luxury vehicle division, Lincoln's sustainability efforts focus on sustainable manufacturing, environmental stewardship, and community engagement while maintaining its position as a premier American luxury automotive brand.

Environmental Sustainability in Manufacturing: Lincoln has implemented significant initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of its manufacturing operations, particularly through Ford's broader sustainability programs. The company has committed to achieving carbon neutrality in manufacturing operations by 2050, with comprehensive energy efficiency programs, renewable energy integration, and waste reduction initiatives across its production facilities in North America.

Sustainable Vehicle Technology: Lincoln has developed hybrid and electric powertrain technologies as part of Ford's electrification strategy, offering hybrid versions of key models and developing fully electric luxury vehicles. The company's approach to sustainable mobility includes optimizing powertrain efficiency, developing advanced battery technology, and exploring alternative fuel technologies for luxury vehicle applications.

Supply Chain Responsibility: Lincoln works with suppliers who demonstrate commitment to environmental and ethical standards, including responsible material sourcing, ethical labor practices, and environmental responsibility throughout the supply chain. The company's procurement policies prioritize sustainable materials, conflict-free minerals, and environmental stewardship from raw material extraction to final vehicle assembly.

Waste Reduction and Recycling: Lincoln operates comprehensive recycling programs for manufacturing waste, including metal scrap, packaging materials, and production byproducts. The company's waste reduction initiatives aim to minimize landfill contributions while maximizing material efficiency throughout the manufacturing process and promoting circular economy principles in automotive production.

Community Engagement and Social Impact: Lincoln supports various community initiatives through Ford Motor Company's corporate social responsibility programs, focusing on education, community development, and automotive safety. The company's community engagement includes support for educational institutions, community development projects, and partnerships with organizations promoting road safety and environmental awareness.

Ethical Business Practices: Lincoln maintains comprehensive ethical guidelines for business operations, including fair labor practices, workplace safety, and responsible corporate governance. The company's manufacturing facilities adhere to strict environmental and safety regulations, ensuring worker welfare and environmental compliance throughout its global operations.

Product Lifecycle Sustainability: Lincoln's commitment to vehicle durability and long-term reliability contributes to sustainability by reducing the need for frequent vehicle replacements and minimizing automotive waste. The company's focus on quality engineering and long-lasting luxury vehicles aligns with sustainable consumption principles and responsible product lifecycle management.

American Heritage and Craftsmanship: Lincoln's commitment to American manufacturing and craftsmanship supports local economies and employment while maintaining high standards of quality and environmental responsibility in luxury vehicle production.

Awards & Recognition

Lincoln has received extensive recognition throughout its 100+ year history for automotive excellence, luxury vehicle innovation, and American automotive achievement, establishing itself as one of the most awarded American luxury automotive brands globally.

Luxury Vehicle Awards: Lincoln has received numerous awards from automotive and luxury organizations for luxury vehicle excellence, particularly for its combination of American heritage with modern luxury features. The company's vehicles have been recognized by organizations including the Automotive Hall of Fame, luxury automotive publications, and design organizations for innovation in luxury vehicle design and American automotive craftsmanship.

Design and Innovation Awards: Lincoln's design innovations and styling excellence have received recognition from automotive design organizations and luxury publications. The company's distinctive American luxury design language and innovative features have been acknowledged for creating a unique position in the global luxury automotive market.

Quality and Reliability Awards: Lincoln has received awards for vehicle quality, reliability, and owner satisfaction from automotive industry organizations and consumer publications. The company's focus on build quality and long-term reliability in luxury vehicles has resulted in consistent recognition in quality surveys and reliability studies.

Brand and American Heritage Recognition: Lincoln has been acknowledged for its role as an American luxury brand with over 100 years of heritage, receiving recognition for maintaining American automotive traditions while embracing modern luxury innovation. The company's contribution to American automotive history and luxury vehicle development has been recognized by automotive historians and cultural institutions.

Customer Experience Awards: Lincoln has received recognition for customer experience, dealership service excellence, and luxury automotive customer service from automotive consumer organizations and industry publications. The company's commitment to luxury customer service and owner experience has resulted in numerous awards for customer satisfaction and service quality.

Technology and Innovation Awards: Lincoln's technological innovations, particularly in luxury vehicle features and comfort technologies, have received recognition from technology organizations and automotive innovation groups. The company's forward-looking approach to luxury automotive technology and comfort features has been acknowledged for enhancing the luxury driving experience.

Environmental and Sustainability Awards: Lincoln's sustainability initiatives and environmental programs have received recognition from environmental organizations and automotive industry groups for environmental stewardship and sustainable manufacturing. The company's efforts in reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainable luxury mobility have been acknowledged by green automotive organizations.

Lincoln Recalls & Controversies

Lincoln has faced several challenges throughout its history, primarily related to product recalls, safety issues, and market competition that have tested the brand's reputation and relationships with customers, regulators, and industry stakeholders.

Vehicle Recalls and Safety Issues: Lincoln has faced several vehicle recalls throughout its history, particularly concerning safety-related defects, mechanical issues, and component failures. These recalls have sometimes affected customer confidence in the luxury vehicle segment and required the company to implement enhanced quality control processes and more proactive safety monitoring systems for luxury vehicles.

Market Competition Challenges: Lincoln has faced intense competition from other luxury automotive manufacturers, particularly from European luxury brands and other American luxury competitors, leading to market share challenges in the luxury vehicle segment. The company has had to navigate competitive dynamics while maintaining its distinctive American luxury positioning and heritage.

Quality Control and Manufacturing Issues: Lincoln has occasionally faced criticism regarding product quality consistency and manufacturing standards, particularly concerning luxury vehicle component reliability and finish quality issues. The company has had to address these concerns through improved quality control processes, enhanced manufacturing standards for luxury vehicles, and better supplier management protocols.

Environmental Impact Concerns: Lincoln has faced scrutiny regarding the environmental impact of its luxury vehicles and manufacturing operations, particularly concerning fuel efficiency standards and environmental regulations for larger vehicles. The company has had to address these concerns through improved fuel efficiency technologies, hybrid powertrain development, and environmental responsibility programs.

Technology Adoption Challenges: Lincoln has faced challenges in adopting new automotive technologies, particularly regarding electric vehicle development and autonomous driving systems in the luxury segment. The company's cautious approach to technology adoption has sometimes generated criticism regarding innovation speed in the rapidly evolving luxury automotive market.

Supply Chain Disruptions: Lincoln has faced challenges related to supply chain disruptions, particularly regarding luxury vehicle component availability, raw material shortages, and global logistics issues affecting luxury vehicle production. These challenges have sometimes affected vehicle production and delivery schedules, requiring the company to implement more robust supply chain management strategies.

Customer Service and Warranty Issues: Lincoln has occasionally faced criticism regarding customer service, particularly concerning luxury vehicle warranty claims, service quality, and customer support responsiveness. The company has had to improve its customer service processes and warranty administration to maintain customer satisfaction in the luxury vehicle segment.

Brand Positioning and Identity Challenges: Lincoln has faced challenges regarding brand positioning and identity in the luxury automotive market, particularly concerning maintaining its American heritage while competing with established European luxury brands. The company has had to navigate complex brand positioning decisions while maintaining its distinctive American luxury automotive identity.

Brands Owned by Ford Motor Company

Ford F-150Automotive

Ford F-150

Owned by Ford Motor Company

America's best-selling pickup truck, known for capability, durability, and innovative features. Manufactured by Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) in Dearborn, Michigan.

pickup-truckfull-size-truckbest-selling
Ford MustangAutomotive

Ford Mustang

Owned by Ford Motor Company

American pony car icon known for its sporty design, performance heritage, and cultural significance since 1964. Manufactured by Ford Motor Company.

muscle-carpony-carsports-car
View all brands owned by Ford Motor Company

Lincoln Ownership: Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • +Backed by Ford Motor Company's manufacturing resources and technology
  • +2025 U.S. sales of 106,868 vehicles, second consecutive year above 100K
  • +Navigator had best sales year since 2007 (22,185 units, up 42.8%)
  • +Historic brand heritage with over 100 years of American luxury positioning
  • +Strong distribution network and dealership support
  • +Access to Ford's hybrid and electric vehicle technology
  • +Ford's FY2025 total U.S. sales of 2.2 million vehicles and 13.2% market share provide scale advantages

Considerations

  • -Intense competition from Cadillac, Lexus, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi
  • -SUV-only lineup limits competitiveness against brands offering sedans and sports cars
  • -Ford's investment in Lincoln has been more modest compared to GM's investment in Cadillac
  • -China wholesale volumes declining (Ford China down from 467K to 260K units in 2025)
  • -Economic sensitivity affecting luxury vehicle purchases
  • -Balancing luxury positioning with Ford's mainstream brand identity

Frequently Asked Questions About Lincoln

Sources & Further Reading

  • Lincoln Official Website
  • Ford Motor Company FY2025 Annual Report (10-K)
  • Ford FY2025 Annual Report (Financial Statements)
  • Ford Motor Company Investor Relations
  • Ford 2025 Full-Year U.S. Sales Results
  • BusinessWire: Ford 2025 Sales Results
  • CNBC: Ford 2025 Annual Sales
  • SEC EDGAR: Ford Motor Company filings
  • Car and Driver: Lincoln reviews
  • Motor Trend: Lincoln coverage
  • NHTSA Vehicle Safety

Competitors to Lincoln

These competing brands operate in the same categories and provide similar products or services. Compare key attributes to understand market positioning and competitive landscape.

BrandParent CompanyCountryFoundedMarket PositionPrimary MarketGender Target
GenesisGenesis
Hyundai Motor Group
South Korea
2015
PremiumGlobalUnisex
BuickBuick
General Motors
United States
1903
PremiumGlobalAll Genders
Calvin KleinCalvin Klein
Pvh Corp
USA
1968
PremiumGlobalAll Genders
HummerHummer
General Motors
USA
1992
PremiumUnited statesAll Genders
Mini CooperMini Cooper
Bmw Group
Germany
1959
PremiumGlobalUnisex
Stuart WeitzmanStuart Weitzman
Caleres
USA
1986
PremiumGlobalAll Genders

Learn More About Competitors

GenesisAutomotive

Genesis

Owned by Hyundai Motor Group

South Korean luxury vehicle brand specializing in premium automobiles, owned by Hyundai Motor Group.

luxuryautomotivepremium-vehicles
BuickAutomotive

Buick

Owned by General Motors Company

American mid-premium automotive brand owned by General Motors. Founded in 1903, Buick is GM's bridge between mainstream Chevrolet and luxury Cadillac. Buick sells approximately 800,000 vehicles annually in China and over 200,000 in the United States.

mid-premiumautomotiveluxury-vehicles
Calvin KleinFashion Apparel

Calvin Klein

Owned by PVH Corp.

American fashion brand founded in New York City in 1968, known for jeans, underwear, and fragrances. Owned by PVH Corp since 2003.

fashionluxuryamerican-brand
HummerAutomotive

Hummer

Owned by General Motors Company

American automotive brand producing electric trucks and SUVs under the GMC division of General Motors.

suvelectric-vehicletrucks
Mini CooperAutomotive

Mini Cooper

Owned by BMW Group

British premium compact car brand owned by BMW Group, known for distinctive design and electric vehicle lineup.

compact-carsautomotivebritish-brand
Stuart WeitzmanFashion Apparel

Stuart Weitzman

Owned by Caleres

Luxury women's footwear brand founded in 1986, known for over-the-knee boots and Spanish craftsmanship. Acquired by Caleres from Tapestry in August 2025 for $120.2 million.

luxuryfootwearshoes

Competitive Analysis

Market Positioning: Lincoln competes with 6 brands in the same categories, ranging from mass market to luxury positioning.

Geographic Distribution: Competitors are headquartered across multiple regions, indicating global competition in this market segment.

Brand Heritage: Competitor brands range from established heritage brands to newer market entrants, with founding years spanning several decades.

Independent Alternatives to Lincoln

Looking for brands with different ownership structures? These similar brands are not owned by Ford Motor Company, giving you alternative choices that support different corporate structures.

Interstate BatteriesAutomotive

Interstate Batteries

Owned by Interstate Battery System of America

American battery distributor founded in 1952, specializing in automotive, commercial, and consumer batteries, headquartered in Dallas, Texas.

batteriesautomotive-batterieslead-acid-batteries
Privately Owned

Interstate Batteries is privately owned, unlike Lincoln which is under a publicly traded parent company.

HyundaiAutomotive

Hyundai

Owned by Hyundai Motor Group

South Korean automobile manufacturer known for its value proposition, quality improvements, and stylish designs in the global automotive market.

korean-carvalue-brandglobal-automaker
Privately Owned

Hyundai is privately owned, unlike Lincoln which is under a publicly traded parent company.

KiaAutomotive

Kia

Owned by Hyundai Motor Group

South Korean automobile manufacturer known for sporty design and value positioning, part of Hyundai Motor Group.

korean-carvalue-brandsporty-design
Privately Owned

Kia is privately owned, unlike Lincoln which is under a publicly traded parent company.

GenesisAutomotive

Genesis

Owned by Hyundai Motor Group

South Korean luxury vehicle brand specializing in premium automobiles, owned by Hyundai Motor Group.

luxuryautomotivepremium-vehicles
Privately Owned

Genesis is privately owned, unlike Lincoln which is under a publicly traded parent company.

Ironman TiresAutomotive

Ironman Tires

Owned by Hercules Tire and Rubber Company

Budget tire brand owned by Hercules Tire and Rubber Company, a subsidiary of American Tire Distributors, offering affordable tires for passenger vehicles, light trucks, and commercial vehicles.

tiresbudget-tiresautomotive
Privately Owned

Ironman Tires is privately owned, unlike Lincoln which is under a publicly traded parent company.

JaecooAutomotive

Jaecoo

Owned by Chery Automobile Co., Ltd.

Chinese automotive brand established in 2023 by Chery Automobile, focusing on SUVs for export markets outside China.

automotivesuvchinese
State-Owned

Jaecoo is owned by Chery Automobile Co., Ltd., a state owned company, a different structure than Lincoln's parent.

Ford Motor Company Stock Information

Jobs at Ford Motor Company

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Last reviewed: August 1, 2026 · Reviewed by Who Brands Editorial Team