Ford promises carbon neutrality by 2050

Ford Motor Co. has committed to achieving global carbon neutrality. It's an ambitious goal for such a large-scale manufacturer, but it's also a safe bet that hardly anyone who works for Ford today will still be on the job to see if it happens.

The automaker said in its 21st annual Sustainability Report that it would offset all of its carbon emissions by 2050. Ford said it's primarily focused on three areas that make up 95 percent of its carbon emissions: vehicle use, supply base and company facilities. The company listed a number of potential hurdles to its target, including customer acceptance, government regulations, economic conditions and the availability of renewable fuels.

"We can develop and make great vehicles, sustain and grow a strong business and protect our planet at the same time — in fact, those ideals complement each other," Bob Holycross, Ford's chief sustainability, environment and safety officer, said in a statement. "We don't have all the answers yet but are determined to work with all of our global and local partners and stakeholders to get there."

One of Ford's rivals was apparently not impressed, though.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk tweeted this four-word reply to Ford's announcement of the 2050 goal: "Could be slightly faster."