Was Cadillac owned by Ford?
No. Cadillac has never been owned by Ford; it has been a division of General Motors since 1909. Ford and Cadillac (GM) have always operated as separate companies within the automotive industry. This article traces Cadillac’s ownership from its founding to the present day.
This explainer outlines where Cadillac came from, how it became part of General Motors, and what the current corporate arrangement looks like, clarifying a common misconception about cross-ownership with Ford.
Origins and the GM acquisition
Founding of Cadillac
Cadillac was established in 1902 by Henry Leland and the Cadillac Automobile Company, with the brand later named in honor of Antoine Laumet de La Mothe, Sieur de Cadillac. The objective was to produce high-quality, precision-built vehicles that would set a standard for luxury and engineering.
GM acquisition and early years
In 1909, General Motors acquired Cadillac, incorporating it as GM’s premium luxury division. From that point, Cadillac operated under the General Motors umbrella, contributing to GM’s lineup as its flagship luxury brand for much of the 20th century and beyond.
Key milestones in Cadillac's ownership history are summarized below.
- 1902: Cadillac Automobile Company founded by Henry Leland; the brand is named after the explorer Cadillac.
- 1909: General Motors acquires Cadillac and establishes it as GM’s luxury division.
- 1910s–1920s: Cadillac expands as GM’s premier luxury brand, introducing innovations that shape the market.
- Mid-to-late 20th century: Cadillac remains a core part of GM’s lineup amid industry changes.
These milestones illustrate how Cadillac became and stayed a GM brand through the 20th century and into the present day.
Current ownership status
Ownership today
Today, Cadillac is a division of General Motors (GM). Ford has never owned Cadillac and has no equity stake or control over the brand. Ford's own luxury division is Lincoln, which operates under Ford Motor Company, separate from Cadillac.
- Owner: General Motors (GM)
- Brand placement: Cadillac, GM’s luxury division
- Relation to Ford: No ownership or control; Ford’s luxury brand is Lincoln
Understanding the current structure confirms that Cadillac remains firmly within GM’s corporate framework, independent of Ford.
Summary
Cadillac has never been owned by Ford. It originated as an independent company in 1902, was acquired by General Motors in 1909, and has operated as GM’s luxury division ever since. Despite the long-running competition between GM and Ford in the auto industry, Cadillac’s ownership has remained with GM.
