Ford Atlas Concept: The Future Of Pickups

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• Ford Atlas Concept is the future vision for pickup trucks

• Innovative design integrates capability and smart technologies to transform customer expectations of what Built Ford Tough^® will look like in the future

• Next-generation EcoBoost^® – coupled with advanced engineering and design innovations – creates leading fuel efficiency and increased capability

• Trailer towing and cargo hauling are made easier with innovative features designed specifically for truck owners to improve utility and confidence

 Click here to visit the Ford Atlas Concept mini-site.

 

Soundbites: Ford Atlas Concept

 

DETROIT, Jan. 15, 2013 – Ford today unveiled the Ford Atlas Concept to showcase the design, capability, fuel efficiency and smart technologies that will define future pickup trucks.

 

“The Ford Atlas Concept previews the innovations that will transform what people expect from their pickup,” said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. “With 36 years as America’s best-selling pickup, we are absolutely committed to setting the agenda in the truck market.”

 

Design with purpose

The Ford Atlas Concept is inspired by decades of listening to customers at the places they work and play. The result is a purpose-driven design with prominent wheel arches, a wide stance and chiseled grille – all to reinforce its functional Built Ford Tough^® image. 

 

“We wanted the concept to reflect how Ford trucks help customers in both their worlds – professionally and personally,” said J Mays, Ford group vice president and chief creative officer. “Every surface and feature in the vehicle has been crafted for purpose and capability while retaining an unmistakable Built Ford Tough look.”

 

Designers enhanced truck functionality, while creating new advanced features(see infographic here). For example, multiple tie-down points are integrated within the cargo box walls and load floor, along with 110-volt electrical outlets in the cargo box to charge power tools. An integrated roof carrying system and hidden extendable ramps give the truck unique functionality for a variety of jobs.

 

The interior is themed with structural styling cues and features the latest thinking in comfort, utility and refinement. Innovative, thin, lightweight seating in comfortable leather allows for extra legroom for rear passengers – along with integrated storage for smaller items. “Floating” instrument pods and glove-friendly buttons and controls keep the interior functional and ruggedly stylish.

 

Leading fuel efficiency

The Ford Atlas Concept features a next-generation EcoBoost^® powertrain, which introduces truck-enhanced Auto Start-Stop engine shutoff technology. Auto Start-Stop shuts off the engine when stopped in traffic to save fuel – and smartly suspends the feature when the truck knows it is towing.  

 

EcoBoost engines use gasoline direct injection and turbocharging to deliver fuel-economy gains of up to 20 percent and reduction of CO₂ emissions of up to 15 percent, compared with larger-displacement engines. More than 500,000 EcoBoost engines have been sold globally, including 250,000 in the Ford F-150.

 

The Ford Atlas Concept goes further to save fuel through a combination of active aerodynamic elements that reduce wind resistance. They include:

• Active Grille Shutters: Automatic shutters behind the grille stay open when extra engine cooling is needed, such as during low-speed stop-and-go driving or while working in hot weather. The shutters automatically close to improve aerodynamics when cruising on the highway at steady speeds
• Active Wheel Shutters: Automatic shutters in the wheels are hidden to improve style at rest and low speeds, but automatically close at highway speeds to improve aerodynamics. Self-charging batteries use energy from the wheels’ motion to power the shutters
• Drop-Down Front Air Dam: A drop-down front wind spoiler lowers at highway speeds to improve underbody airflow. The air dam is raised at low speeds to improve ground clearance – helpful for off-roading
• Power Running Boards: Auto-deploying running boards help passengers enter the truck at rest and tuck up against the truck when it is moving to improve aerodynamics and ground clearance 

The combination of these fuel-saving features saves more than 2 mpg on the highway without diminishing towing or hauling capability.

 

Work and play smarter, not harder

Ford Atlas Concept is a rolling showcase of features that improve capability, durability and productivity to meet the diverse needs of pickup truck owners. Features include:

• Dual-Purpose Tailgate Step and Cargo Cradle: The acclaimed Ford Tailgate Step goes a step further by adding the ability to also act as a cargo cradle – lifting and holding extra-long cargo items above the truck and freeing valuable bed spaceTrailer Backup Assist: This segment-first innovation allows drivers to back a trailer with the twist of a knob. Ford research shows that backing a trailer is often the most intimidating task a truck customer can face
• Dynamic Hitch Assist: Hitching a trailer can be time consuming and difficult. Dynamic Hitch Assist helps precisely line up the truck’s hitch with the trailer coupling, eliminating maneuvering guesswork by showing visual cues in the truck’s center display screen
• 360-Degree Point-of-View Camera: A Ford truck first, the system gives a bird’s-eye view of the truck to help position the vehicle in tight places or when there are obstacles near the truck – such as on a busy job site or grocery store parking lot
• LED Headlamps and Taillamps: Advanced LED lighting offers better road illumination than conventional halogen or HID lights and lasts longer. LED lamps also offer near-instant response, giving valuable extra warning time for following traffic
• LED Cargo Box and Side Mirror Lighting: Advanced, powerful yet efficient LED lighting brightly lights the cargo box and job site after the sun goes down with minimal battery drain compared to standard headlights or plug-in lights
• Hidden Cargo Ramps: Lightweight, durable loading ramps stowed below the cargo box can be quickly removed and set up to assist with loading wheeled items into the bed – from landscaping equipment to dirt bikes

Source: Ford.com

Ford Launches Electric Vehicle Charging Network For Employees; Customers Log 30 Million All-Electric Miles

• Ford launches new workplace charging network, allowing more employees to accomplish their daily commute entirely on electricity

• Ford customers now have logged 30 million all-electric miles in the company’s full range of plug-in electric vehicles, saving more than 1.2 million kilograms of CO₂

• Ford delivered its best August U.S. electrified vehicle sales ever with 8,292 vehicles sold, up 288 percent over the same period a year ago. August marks the 11^th consecutive month Ford achieved electrified vehicle sales records

DEARBORN, Mich., Sept. 16, 2013 - More Ford employees soon will be able to drive to work entirely on electricity, thanks to a new workplace charging network being installed at nearly every Ford facility in the U.S. and Canada.

Ford plans to install electric vehicle charging stations at more than 50 of its company offices, product development campuses and manufacturing facilities. Installation will begin later this year and roll out across company facilities throughout 2014.

“Ford’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond our fuel-efficient vehicles to include our daily workplace,” said Mike Tinskey, Ford global director of Vehicle Electrification and Infrastructure. “We know that a growing electrified vehicle infrastructure is key to making plug-in vehicles a viable option for more consumers. Ford is committed to doing our part to help grow that infrastructure.”

Ford employees will be able to charge the all-electric Focus Electric, as well as Ford’s two plug-in hybrids – the Fusion Energi and C-MAX Energi – at the charge stations. The service will initially be free to employees for the first four hours. Ford estimates it will cost the company about 50 cents to fully charge a vehicle, saving employees up to $2 in gasoline each day.

Ford’s workplace EV chargers are different from competitor programs in that they will be networked together. As a result, the company will be able to gather additional information on electrified vehicle use, such as the number of hours vehicles are charging and the amount of CO₂ reduced.

Ford already has more than 1,700 charging stations at Ford dealerships and company facilities in North America. The new workplace chargers will add approximately 200 more.

Throughout the U.S. and Canada, the number of charge stations – both public and residential – is growing rapidly. In 2009, there were 3,000 known public charge stations. Today, there are more than 20,000.

30 million electric miles
Ford Fusion Energi and C-MAX Energi drivers typically make three of their four daily trips in all-electric mode, based on data from Ford’s MyFord Mobile app. In fact, every 10 days, Ford customers drive approximately 1 million miles on electricity alone. In total, Ford customers now have logged 30 million all-electric miles driving the full range of plug-in vehicles, saving more than 1.2 million kilograms of CO₂.

Current customer data from the Fusion Energi and CMAX Energi is showing that three of every four trips are accomplished on electricity alone. By adding another charge during the day at the workplace, it is likely that employees will be able to accomplish all of their work week trips without using gasoline.

Electrified vehicle sales success
The popularity of Ford’s electrified vehicles led to the company’s best-ever retail U.S. sales results for Fusion Energi and C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid vehicles in August. That contributed to Ford’s best August electrified vehicle sales ever, with 8,292 vehicles sold, up 288 percent over the same period a year ago.

August also marked the 11^th consecutive month Ford achieved electrified vehicle sales records. Nearly two-thirds of new Ford electrified vehicle sales are coming from buyers trading in other car brands.

Ford Skyrockets To Second Greenest Brand In The World

Ford shot up 13 spots in a new report ranking companies largely on public perception of a brand’s sustainable or green practices to become the second greenest brand in the world. Bolstered by the popularity of products such as its EcoBoost^® engines, Ford is No. 2 on the 2013 Best Global Brands Report released Wednesday by consulting firm Interbrand. “In 2012, Ford (#2) moved sustainability from the periphery to the center of its business strategy,” the annual report states. More details about Ford’s ranking, along with the entire report can be found here.


Source: Ford.com

All-New Ford Mustang Is Named ‘Official Car’ Of 2014 International CES; New Technology To Be Announced At Show

• Advanced driver-assist features, technology to personalize the driving experience and performance improvement applications mark some of the innovations for all-new Mustang
• Ford to showcase all-new Mustang and announce its new technology features to open the 2014 International CES^® Tuesday, Jan. 7

DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 16, 2013 - The most technologically advanced version of Ford’s iconic pony car will take center stage at the 2014 International CES^® as the all-new Mustang is recognized as “Official Car” of the world’s largest hands-on showcase of emerging innovation. 2014 International CES will be held Jan. 7-10, 2014, in Las Vegas; the show is owned and produced by the Consumer Electronics Association^®.

“Mustang has always been more than just a car, as it reminds us of the freedom and joy that comes from traveling the open road,” said Jim Farley, executive vice president, Ford global marketing, sales and service and Lincoln. “With world-class performance and innovative technologies wrapped in a sleek design, the all-new Ford Mustang puts you in control of the driving experience that suits you best.”

As Official Car of the 2014 CES, a Mustang fastback will be prominently displayed in the Grand Lobby of the Las Vegas Convention Center. In addition, Ford will feature the Mustang convertible in its main display area in the North Hall. Ford will host a press conference to debut the new Mustang to the CES audience and to announce new technology features at the show’s opening on Tuesday, Jan. 7.

“It is very exciting to see an iconic American car like Mustang equipped with state-of-the-art technology,” said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO, CEA. “Automobiles are rapidly becoming mobile technology platforms as consumers demand connectivity along with efficiency and performance in their vehicles.

“With features like upgraded SYNC, Ford automobiles are built with cutting-edge technology that can make driving safer and more enjoyable. We are overjoyed to see Ford return to our show and to have the new Mustang as Official Car of the 2014 CES.”

Smarter Than Your Average Pony
Delivering a great driving experience is all about keeping the driver in control. In addition to the fundamentals of proper seating, control today also means making technology available to enhance the drive – whether it’s a daily commute, extended road trip or weekend track day.

Rather than having to settle for a one-size-fits-all technology solution, Mustang drivers will have the ability to tune their individual car to their driving style and road conditions. With available Selectable Drive Modes, the driver can quickly adjust steering effort, throttle response, shift control and stability control settings by toggling between normal, snow-wet, sport and track modes.

In addition to the four preset modes, drivers can fine-tune the steering effort separately with standard, comfort and sport settings. The new Ford stability control system can also be set to a less intrusive sport mode or turned off entirely for track use.

Standard and available technology features of the 2015 Ford Mustang include:

• Ford SYNC^® connectivity system, with Bluetooth^®, two USB ports, enhanced voice recognition for hands-free control and access to SYNC Services, 911 Assist^® and more
• MyFord Touch^®: Adds an eight-inch high-resolution touch screen display, more natural voice recognition with improved accuracy, and simplified controls for the available SD card-based navigation
• AppLink^™: Gives drivers the ability to control more than 60 smartphone apps for information and entertainment using simple voice commands
• Intelligent Access with push-button start: Doors and trunk can be unlocked without reaching for a key, and the engine is started with a push-button on the center stack. Up to three key fobs can be programmed to memory positions for mirrors and available power seats
• Track Apps: Drivers can get instant access to acceleration, braking and handling performance data through the instrument cluster screen
• Launch control: Manages engine speed and brakes, giving drivers maximum and consistent acceleration at the track
• Adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support: Automatically adjusts vehicle speed to maintain a safe following distance. When a collision may be imminent, it precharges the brakes and increases the sensitivity of brake assist
• Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert: Provides the driver with alerts when changing lanes or exiting a parking space, and has been upgraded with doppler effect radar sensors to provide both improved sensitivity at longer distances and better resistance to false alerts
• Individual tire pressure monitoring: Instrument cluster display now shows the tire pressure for each wheel – a first for Ford
• MyKey^®: Enables parents to limit top speed and audio volume, prevent disabling of driver-assist technologies, and enforce more insistent alerts for safety belt use and low fuel for younger drivers in the family
• Rear view camera: Now standard

The all-new 2015 Ford Mustang goes on sale in North America during the fall of 2014.

Source: Ford.com

Mustang Milestones

DEARBORN, Mich. - Over its nearly 50 year history, the Ford Mustang has changed with the times, staying relevant while remaining true its nature as a stylish, sporty car that can be whatever its owners want it to be. With its classic long-hood, short deck proportions and front engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, it was a platform everyone could build on. Here are just a few of the milestones of the past five decades as we look ahead to the next 50 years of Mustang.

Click here to download the Mustang Fifty Years Timeline.

Source: Ford.com

Sold For $500,000: 2014 Ford Shelby GT500 Convertible Delivers For Brain Injury Association Of America At Hot August Nights

RENO, Nev. - The last retail 2014MY Ford Shelby GT500 convertible auctioned by Ford Motor Company to benefit the Brain Injury Association of America fetched a whopping $500,000 at the inaugural Hot August Nights Auction Presented by Barrett-Jackson in Reno, Nev.

On Saturday, Aug. 10, Don Damon of Great Bend, Kan., purchased the Shelby in a spirited bidding war, with 100 percent of the proceeds going to the BIAA. Parnelli Jones, 1963 Indy 500 winner and advocate for the charity, cheered on the competition.

“It was thrilling to watch the bidding unfold,” said Steve Ling, North America car marketing manager for Ford. “The moment showed the power of a great charity and a great car, and the tremendous generosity of the Damon family and our friends at Barrett-Jackson.”

Jones was introduced to the BIAA when his son Page Jones, a rising star in racing, suffered a severe brain injury in a Sprint Car race. His prognosis was grim, yet with the support of his family, Page has gone on to have a fulfilling, productive and joyous life. With the upcoming documentary, Godspeed: The Story of Page Jones, both the family and BIAA hope to raise awareness of the importance of rehabilitation for those who suffer from a traumatic brain injury.

“It’s my 80^th birthday, and I can’t imagine a better present,” said Parnelli Jones. “We worked hard to help Page recover from his injury, but we couldn’t have done it alone. We received help from the BIAA, and this funding will aid so many others who have suffered from similar injuries.”

The Ford Shelby GT500 is another in a line of vehicles sold by Ford Motor Company to support charities over the past several years. Other recipients have included the Carroll Shelby Foundation and Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

“We at the BIAA are overcome with gratitude,” said Susan H. Connors, president and CEO of the BIAA. “This Ford Shelby GT500 sale provides vital funding for research, treatment and education to help the 3.5 million Americans who suffer from traumatic brain injuries. It’s been a pleasure to collaborate with Ford, Barrett-Jackson, Parnelli and Page.”

With 662 horsepower, superb handling and a 0-60 mph time of under 4.0 seconds, the Shelby GT500 is one of the world’s greatest muscle cars. As the winning bidder for the 2014 Shelby, Damon can choose any interior, exterior and stripe color combination offered by Ford, making this a one-off factory custom car. Additionally, Parnelli Jones will sign the Shelby in appreciation for the BIAA donation. The car is scheduled to be delivered to Damon by year’s end.

At Hot August Nights, Ford also celebrated America’s love affair with cars and rock ’n’ roll. During the festivities, Ford offered both Ride-and-Drives and hot lap experiences at the parking lot of Atlantis Casino Resort. The Ride-and-Drives featured Ford’s elite stable of vehicles – including Explorer, Focus and Mustang – and Ford fans were able to run hot laps in the Shelby GT500, Focus ST and Fiesta ST. Ford also showcased its vehicles in the Reno to Sparks cruise-in.

Source: ford.com

Ford Celebrates Production Of 7 Millionth Transit Van; Tough, Versatile Workhorse To Be Sold in 118 Global Markets

Ford announces production of seven millionth Transit; popular nameplate launched same year
first person walked in space.

• Ford produces seven millionth Transit; parked end to end they would stretch from London to Sydney, Australia and back again
• Milestone celebrated today at the official opening of Ford’s strategic partner’s Jiangling Motors Corp’s new commercial vehicle assembly plant in Nanchang, China
• Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally opens Jiangling Xiaolan facility that offers incremental volume to the Chinese market
• Next year, Ford will build and sell the Transit in North America for the first time and extend the model to 118 customer markets across six continents; targets 400,000 annual global sales by 2016 – a Transit sold every 80 seconds
• All-new Transit in Europe is scheduled for launch in 2014

NANCHANG, China, June 20, 2013 – Ford Motor Company today announced production of the seven millionth Transit, the popular commercial van launched in 1965 in Europe and now being extended to 118 markets across six continents.

Lined up end to end, the seven million Transits would stretch from London to Sydney, Australia, and back again.

The milestone was celebrated at the official opening today of a new Transit assembly plant in Nanchang, China, attended by Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally. The Jiangling Xiaolan facility is the result of a (U.S.) $300 million investment by Ford’s strategic partner Jiangling Motors Corp (JMC) and produces JMC-branded vehicles and Ford-branded vehicles for the growing Chinese market.

“The Ford Transit plays a significant role in the lives and jobs of millions of people,” Mulally said. “From getting workers to a building site, to delivering important packages, or even rushing a patient to the hospital, people all over the world rely on Ford Transits to get the job done.”

Launched in the same year that the first person walked in space, the Transit made an immediate impact, providing practical support to the booming economies of Europe. Since then, Ford has developed a vast range of bodystyles and variants: from the parcel van, through tipper trucks and campers, to outrageous one-offs, including the Cosworth V8-powered Supervans.

The all-new 2-tonne Transit scheduled for European launch in spring 2014 will sit atop a redesigned and expanded range of models for Europe that also includes the Transit Custom, Transit Connect and Transit Courier.

Production of the Transit has accelerated so that after passing the first million sales milestones in 1976, it passed the next ones in 1985, 1994, 2000, 2005 and 2010.

The Transit also has introduced a list of technology innovations for commercial vehicles to help improve performance, comfort and safety, from features like side loading doors, halogen headlights and radial ply tyres, to direct injection diesel engines, high security locks and standard anti-lock brakes.

“The Ford Transit continues to innovate, helping customers carry more goods, reduce their running costs and arrive reliably and safely at their destination,” Mulally said.

Transit production first expanded beyond Europe in 1997 with new facilities in Nanchang, China, and Hai Duong, Vietnam. The new Jiangling Xiaolan plant more than doubles JMC’s annual commercial vehicle production capacity to 545,000 units from 245,000 units. JMC, which builds the Ford Transit for the Chinese market, is 30 per cent owned by Ford.

The global expansion of Transit production and sales takes a further significant step in mid-2014 as the all-new Transit enters North America for the first time. The North American Transit will be built in Kansas City, Mo.

In total, Ford expects to sell more than 400,000 1-tonne and 2-tonne Transits each year by 2016, the equivalent of selling one vehicle every 80 seconds.

The all-new 2-tonne Ford Transit is scheduled for launch in spring 2014 to bring a new level of capability and versatility to the medium commercial van market, with a comprehensive range of body styles and derivatives delivering class-leading load-carrying ability and cost-of-ownership, with exceptional durability.

In Europe, the 2-tonne Transit and 1-tonne Transit Custom vehicles head up a transformed and extended range of four all-new Transit models on sale by mid-2014. This includes the all-new Transit Connect offering payloads of 550-1000 kilograms, and the compact all-new Transit Courier with maximum payload of 660 kilograms.

"The Ford Transit has a superb heritage and an even brighter future,” Mulally said. “As we pass this incredible seven million milestone, we look forward to helping even more customers get their businesses moving forward with a Transit.”

# # #

* Estimated length of seven million Ford Transits calculated based on an average vehicle length of 5.0 m. Flying distance from London to Sydney, Australia is approximately 17,000km (10,500 miles)

Source: Ford.com

Ford Tests High-Tech “Brake Light” That Communicates With Car Behind

• Ford tests early warning car-to-car communication feature that alerts drivers to vehicles braking ahead – even around corners and through traffic
• Experimental technology called “Electronic Brake Light” transmits a wireless signal to illuminate a dashboard light on following vehicles
• The technology is among 20 systems Ford tested for Safe Intelligent Mobility – Testfield Germany (sim^TD); the joint industry research project finds intelligent transport systems could reduce congestion and potentially improve safety
• Specially-equipped Ford S-MAX models were used to test the technologies for sim^TD; Ford also tested Obstacle Warning, which alerts drivers to objects on the road, and Traffic Sign Assistant, which provides up-to-date information from traffic management centres

AACHEN, Germany, June 21, 2013 – Ford has participated in a special test of a high-tech early warning “brake light” that can warn drivers following behind even if they are around a bend or behind other traffic.  

The technology is one of 20 potential future systems Ford tested as part of Safe Intelligent Mobility – Testfield Germany (sim^TD), a four-year joint industry research project.

In emergency braking situations, the experimental “Electronic Brake Light” transmits a wireless signal to illuminate a dashboard light in cars following behind. The study found the technology could enable drivers to brake earlier and potentially mitigate or avoid a collision.

The sim^TD field tests involved 500 test drivers in 120 vehicles – including 20 Ford S-MAX models. Testers logged more than 41,000 hours and almost a million miles on public roads and an enclosed test track in Germany.

“Car-to-car and car-to-infrastructure communications represent one of the next major advancements in vehicle safety,” said Paul Mascarenas, Ford’s chief technical officer and vice president, Ford Research and Innovation. “Ford is committed to further real-world testing here and around the world with the goal of implementation in the foreseeable future.”

Ford used specially-equipped Ford S-MAX models to help test the potential of car-to-car and car-to-infrastructure communication; also testing Obstacle Warning system, which alerts to the presence, position and type of potentially hazardous objects in the road, and Traffic Sign Assistant, that keeps in contact with traffic management centres for up-to-date information.

Engineers from Ford’s European Research Centre in Aachen, Germany, led the Electronic Brake Light development, testing and data analysis.

Further technologies tested for sim^TD included:

• Public Traffic Management, which provides exact traffic prognosis based on comprehensive information; this includes identifying likely traffic scenarios and their impact at the point in the journey when they are encountered rather than at the point of departure   
• In-car Internet Access, which, for example enables the driver to receive information about free parking spaces or check traffic hotspots by receiving up-to-date pictures from traffic cameras.

As a global leader in researching car-to-car and car-to-infrastructure communications, Ford is engaged in the European Commission-supported field operational tests DRIVE C2X, and in the U.S. contributing to Safety Pilot Model Deployment, a field test of more than 2,800 vehicles in cooperation with the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

Collating results from these programmes supports Ford’s objective of harmonising standards for messaging and hardware globally that would enable the delivery of new technologies faster, more efficiently, and more economically.

sim^TD is a joint project by leading German automotive manufacturers, component suppliers,  communication companies, research institutions and public authorities. The funding for the project was approximately £45million, of which £26million of direct project promotional support was provided by the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology (BMWi) together with the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF).

Further information on sim^TD can be found at www.simTD.de.

Source: Ford.com

Philly Is New Green Hotbed, Dallas Has Its Hands Full, New Yorkers Are Stargazing Based On Ford Escape Sales Trends

• Ford customer buying trends for the new Escape and Explorer’s innovative features reveal Philadelphians unexpectedly prefer green engines the most, San Francisco leans toward geeky options and Seattle residents cruise mindfully with driver-assist technologies

• New Yorkers purchase the highest rates of moonroofs, while Dallas has a leg up for Escape’s novel foot-activated liftgate that customers can open by waving a foot under the bumper

• Ford has introduced a record 60 new technologies the past few years, many of which help Escape increase sales in key coastal and southern “smile-state” markets

• Ford uses car-buying preferences in an effort to better align production with demand

Click to download infographic (PDF).

DEARBORN, Mich., June 24, 2013 – Bucking longstanding trends, Philadelphians are going greener than all other major cities based on sales of the new Escape and Explorer equipped with Ford’s advanced, fuel-saving EcoBoost engine.

 

San Francisco residents live up to their reputation as tech-savvy people by geeking out to MyFord Touch – Ford’s award-winning connectivity system – more than any other U.S. city. The rain in Seattle may be getting to the people who inhabit that city, as they opt for features that can help them drive more mindfully.

 

Those are just a few of the findings from Ford’s annual look at U.S. car-buying preferences. Ford analyzes its U.S. sales data to identify buying patterns and to better understand unique consumer preferences by region. The analysis helps Ford ensure it is delivering the specific vehicles and options to those parts of the country where they’re most in demand.

 

“Some may be surprised to see Philadelphia top Ford’s EcoBoost engine list, but greener living has become a way of life no longer limited to the coasts as people try to save money at the pump,” said Sheryl Connelly, Ford head of global consumer trends. “Technology has become mainstream, and we are living through an age of information addiction, which means people want to stay connected to their digital lives everywhere – including the car.”

 

Ford is having success using these technologies to reach new customers in coastal southern markets, by attracting younger buyers with the latest connectivity features and winning back import buyers through fuel economy, safety and other innovations. For example, Escape sales have increased 50 percent in California, increasing share to 9.5 percent of the small utility market there, compared to 7 percent in the first quarter of last year. Toyota is Escape’s No. 1 competitive brand conquest in the Los Angeles region.

 

Geeky San Francisco

 

San Francisco customers are purchasing SYNC^® with MyFord Touch^® on 85 percent of Escape and Explorer models, 16 percentage points above the national average. This driver connectivity technology creates an interactive, rich driving experience so the driver can access information and entertainment through hands-free voice-activated technology.

 

Ford is committed to providing drivers with a safer means to stay connected through the use of hands-free voice-activated technology, which helps drivers keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.

 

Nationwide, MyFord Touch has exceeded expectations, as it is included in nearly 60 percent of all Ford retail sales, up from 12 percent last year.

 

“As public demand for practical and stylish advancements continues to skyrocket, metropolitan areas across the country remain key hubs for high-tech growth nationwide,” said Scott Steinberg, technology analyst for strategic consulting firm TechSavvy Global. “Thanks to technology’s growing importance in trendsetters’ lives and the everyday benefits it offers, innovation is thriving from coast to coast.”

 

Going green in Philly

 

In Philadelphia, buyers choose the 1.6-liter EcoBoost^® Escape and 2.0-liter EcoBoost Explorer at 20 percentage points above the national average of 25 percent.

 

EcoBoost engines deliver fuel economy gains of up to 20 percent and reduction of CO₂ emissions of up to 15 percent compared to larger, less-efficient engines, without sacrificing the power drivers want.

 

Mindful in Seattle

 

Seattle seems to be the leader in mindful driving. While on average, 19 percent of Escape and Explorer buyers nationally select an available driver-assist package, 35 percent of buyers do in Seattle. Ford’s innovative driver-assist features can help drivers in stressful situations by monitoring driving patterns and traffic, even helping steer when parallel parking.

 

Ford’s Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert (BLIS/CTA) is available on Escape and Explorer. BLIS^® provides an indicator light to warn drivers when another vehicle moves into their blind spot during normal driving; CTA technology alerts drivers to nearby traffic when they are backing out in a parking lot. Active park assist helps drivers parallel park with the touch of a button and without ever touching the steering wheel. On Explorer, Lane-Keeping System can warn and assist the driver when the vehicle is drifting out of the lane.

 

“Across America – from its most sprawling suburban areas to its largest industrial centers – technology now plays a defining role in millions’ lives,” said Steinberg. “Going forward, from better ways to connect and communicate to more energy-efficient travel, innovative and eco-friendly solutions are only expected to have a growing impact on how we live, work and play.”

 

Based on purchasing data for MyFord Touch, EcoBoost and driver-assist technologies in Escape and Explorer, below are Ford’s geekiest, greenest and most mindful cities:

 

Geekiest cities:

1. San Francisco
2. Los Angeles
3. Denver
4. Charlotte
5. Seattle

Greenest cities:

1. Philadelphia
2. Chicago
3. Pittsburgh
4. Orlando
5. Kansas City

Most mindful cities:

1. Seattle
2. Denver
3. Washington, D.C.
4. Orlando
5. Phoenix

Liftgate and inflatable seat belt trends

 

Dallas customers are buying Ford’s foot-activated liftgate on 62 percent of vehicles, 21 percentage points above the national average. The feature provides more convenience by allowing customers who have both hands full to open the liftgate by simply waving a foot under the bumper.

 

Top cities for foot-activated power liftgate:

1. Dallas
2. Charlotte
3. Miami
4. Memphis
5. Orlando

Ford’s inflatable seat belts are designed to enhance protection for rear-seat occupants. The rear inflatable belt functions like a standard seat belt in normal everyday use. In the event of a crash, each belt’s tubular airbag inflates and expands across the occupant’s body. By doing so, it expands its range of protection by diffusing crash pressure over a larger area while supporting the head and neck.

 

Top cities for inflatable seat belts (Explorer):

1. Seattle
2. Denver
3. Washington, D.C.
4. Orlando
5. Phoenix

Additional customer purchasing habits:

 

Ford’s moonroof feature is most popular in New York, with Seattle coming in second; San Francisco residents most prefer heated seats, followed by customers in Los Angeles:

 

Top cities for moonroofs:

1. New York
2. Seattle
3. Pittsburgh
4. Boston
5. Cincinnati

Top cities for heated seats:

1. San Francisco
2. Los Angeles
3. New York
4. Miami
5. Charlotte
    
   Source: Ford.com

All-New 2014 Ford F-150 Tremor Is World's First EcoBoost-Powered Sport Truck

• 2014 Ford F-150 Tremor comes standard with the company’s powerful 3.5-liter EcoBoost^® engine, offering V8 performance, V6 fuel economy and a launch-optimized 4.10 rear axle with electronic locking differential

• Short-wheelbase, regular-cab Tremor offers stylish FX Appearance Package and functional features that include a floor shifter, class-exclusive HID headlamps and standard SYNC^® with MyFord Touch^® connectivity system

• All-new truck’s distinctive looks are complemented by unique boxside Tremor graphics and custom-inspired interior

Click to download images.

 

DEARBORN, Mich., June 27, 2013 – The 2014 Ford F-150 Tremor is the first-ever EcoBoost^®-powered sport truck that addresses the needs of street truck enthusiasts looking for high-performance V8 power with V6 fuel economy.

 

The short-wheelbase, regular-cab Tremor goes on sale this fall delivering distinctive looks and performance. The all-new truck couples the style of the FX Appearance Package with an EcoBoost engine and a launch-optimized 4.10 rear axle – the shortest final drive ratio offered in an EcoBoost F-150 – helping provide customers with fast acceleration.

Click to download product sheet (PDF).

 

Tremor signals its sport truck capabilities with a custom-inspired FX Appearance Package featuring stealthy, flat-black accents that include unique 20-inch flat-black wheels, stylized bodyside graphics and black badges with red lettering.

 

Tremor is the only regular-cab F-150 offering a flow-through center console and bucket seats. Interior touches include black leather seating surfaces with red piping, brushed-metal accents and a red-stitched steering wheel. Alcantara seat inserts add texture and style as well.

 

“The new Tremor gives F-150 customers yet another option to drive a highly capable, distinctive performance truck with features typically found only in the aftermarket,” said Brian Bell, F-150 product marketing manager. “Plus, the Built Ford Tough EcoBoost engine is available for the first time in a short-wheelbase F-150.”

 

F-150 Tremor is powered exclusively by Ford’s groundbreaking 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine, which features:

• 365 horsepower at 5,000 rpm on regular fuel
• 420 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,500 rpm
• Twin independent variable camshaft timing for improved performance and fuel economy
• Up to 90 percent peak torque available from 1,700 rpm to 5,000 rpm

An electronic locking rear differential that’s standard for both two- and four-wheel-drive versions helps deliver the power to the pavement by improving traction during takeoff.

 

Connectivity comes standard on F-150 Tremor with MyFord Touch^® powered by SYNC^®. Designers have optimized the physical interface for MyFord Touch to accommodate truck users who may be wearing work gloves by providing easy access to climate controls and audio presets on the center stack.

 

Source: Ford.com

New Technology for Ford Police Interceptor Uses Radar, Backup Camera To Alert, Protect Law Enforcement Officers

• Surveillance mode technology for Ford Police Interceptor introduced to warn and help protect law enforcement officers from unexpected approaches to their vehicle from the rear

• Using existing driver-assist technologies to detect a person approaching Ford Police Interceptor from behind, the system automatically sounds a chime, rolls up the driver’s side window and locks all doors

 DEARBORN, Mich., July 19, 2013 – A new technology available for Ford Police Interceptor will provide an additional measure of security for law enforcement officers by mitigating their risk of being snuck up on from the rear while working in their vehicles, especially at night.

 

The new surveillance mode technology works by using existing Ford driver-assist technologies – a backup camera, cross-traffic alert and reverse park assist – to give police officers added situational awareness and a first line of defense from potential assailants.

 

When an officer activates the system with the vehicle in park, the backup camera, combined with sensors that detect blind spots and parking obstacles, continually monitors the area to the rear of the vehicle. Surveillance mode can be turned off in situations such as curbside urban settings where pedestrians would constantly set the alarm off.

 

The patent-pending idea is the brainchild of Randy Freiburger, Ford police and ambulance fleet supervisor. Freiburger spent many hours riding along with police officers and saw firsthand the dangers officers face in the course of routine patrols and investigations.

 

“I can tell you from personal experience at night that officer security is a critical concern,” says Freiburger. “Unfortunately, there are people with bad intentions who sneak up on police officers. This system builds upon the Ford Police Interceptor DNA that puts safety and security at the top of the list.”

 

Officers have to write reports, monitor an in-car computer or radar gun, and perform other tasks while sitting in their vehicle. Surveillance mode gives them an extra set of eyes to help guard against threats – especially at night when visibility is compromised.

 

Ford collaborated with Intermotive Inc. of Auburn, Calif., which developed and will sell the surveillance mode system along with several other innovative law enforcement products. The system can be installed at Crown, the facility near Ford’s Chicago Assembly Plant where lights and other accessories are added, or at local upfitters by working directly with Intermotive.

 

Surveillance mode is available for the 2014 Ford Police Interceptor sedan and utility vehicle.

 

For more information on Ford Police Interceptor, visit the Ford Police Interceptor site.

 

For more information on Intermotive, visit http://www.intermotive.net.

 

Source: Ford.com

 

 

2014 Ford F-150 Tremor Sport Truck Will Pace Field For NASCAR Trucks Race At Michigan International Speedway

• 2014 Ford F-150 Tremor has been chosen to pace the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Michigan National Guard 200 on Saturday, Aug. 17

• 2014 Ford F-150 Tremor sport truck with EcoBoost^® engine cranks out 365 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque, delivering V8 power with V6 fuel economy

• Ford F-150 Tremor will be on sale this fall

DEARBORN, Mich. -The 2014 Ford F-150 Tremor – the first EcoBoost^®-powered sport truck – will lead the field to the green flag at the always-fast Michigan International Speedway for the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Michigan National Guard 200 on Saturday, Aug. 17.

“Michigan International Speedway is one of the fastest tracks on the NASCAR circuit, so the vehicle pacing the field also needs to be fast,” said Jamie Allison, director, Ford Racing. “The 2014 Ford F-150 Tremor, with its light-weight configuration, EcoBoost engine and launch-optimized performance, is well-suited for this job.”

This 2014 Ford F-150 Tremor’s EcoBoost engine is the same powerful powertrain customers can buy – the only major modification to the pace truck is a bank of safety lights mandated by NASCAR. The short-wheelbase, regular-cab Tremor goes on sale this fall delivering distinctive looks and performance.

The all-new truck couples the style of the FX Appearance Package with an EcoBoost engine and a launch-optimized 4.10 rear axle – the shortest final drive ratio offered in an EcoBoost F-150 – to help provide customers with fast acceleration. The FX Appearance Package features stealthy, flat-black accents that include unique 20-inch wheels, stylized bodyside graphics and black badges with red lettering.

Tremor is the only regular-cab F-150 offering a flow-through center console and bucket seats. Interior touches include black leather seating surfaces with red piping, brushed-metal accents and a red-stitched steering wheel. Alcantara^® seat inserts add texture and style as well.

F-150 Tremor is powered exclusively by Ford’s groundbreaking 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine, which features:

• 365 horsepower at 5,000 rpm on regular fuel
• 420 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,500 rpm
• Twin independent variable camshaft timing for improved performance and fuel economy

An electronic locking rear differential that’s standard for both two- and four-wheel-drive versions helps deliver the power to the pavement by improving traction during takeoff.

The 2014 F-150 Tremor also comes standard with SYNC^® with MyFord Touch^®, which includes a large 8-inch LCD color touch screen mounted in the center stack. This package adds a media hub with two USB ports, an SD card reader and audio/video input jacks.

Saturday’s race caps a busy week for the Ford F-150 Tremor:

• On Wednesday, Aug. 14, reigning NASCAR Sprint Cup champion Brad Keselowski will drive hot laps with the 2014 Ford F-150 Tremor at Michigan International Speedway. The Rochester Hills, Mich., native is looking to defend his Sprint Cup title in his Ford Fusion
• On Thursday, Aug. 15, the F-150 Tremor will be the subject of a live Tremor Talk web chat featuring Brian Bell, F-150 marketing manager, also known as the father of the 2014 Ford F-150 Tremor, co-hosted with Edmunds.com

“We are proud to continue using Ford trucks to pace the field at MIS,” said Allison. “Just like last year when we showcased the F-150 FX4, we’re using this Michigan race as a platform to promote another one of the outstanding products in the Ford F-150 lineup.”

Source: Ford.com

All-New Ford Transit Range Makes Australian Debut

• Ford is launching the all-new Ford Transit range early next year, the latest in the long line of market-leading vans, of which 7 million have been sold since the first model appeared in 1965
• Designed to be the most stylish and safest Ford Transits ever
• All-new Ford Transit Custom combines a car-like interior and driving experience, with class-competitive load-carrying ability, low cost-of-ownership and legendary Transit heritage
• All-new Ford Transit Cargo adds flexibility of multiple combinations for customers

SYDNEY, Australia - Ford’s small business and commercial customers have more reasons to smile with the arrival of the all-new Ford Transit Custom van and all-new Ford Transit Cargo early next year.

Designed to be the most stylish and safest Transit range ever, the all-new Ford Transit Custom and Ford Transit Cargo have bold an expressive new looks and are packed with the latest safety technologies, as part of Ford’s mission to appeal to a broader range of customers, including skilled tradesmen and small businesses.

“These two cargo carriers are designed to meet the most demanding needs of van users small and large,” Ford Motor Company Chief Operating Officer, Mark Fields, said.

Ford Australia President and CEO, Bob Graziano, said: “We are bringing Australians a full family of stylish, innovative, safe, high quality, fuel efficient and fun-to-drive vehicles.”

Although it provides a more car-like interior and driving experience, the new Ford Transit Custom has lost none of Ford Transit’s legendary toughness, combining class-competitive load-carrying ability and attractive cost-of-ownership with the fuel efficiency expected by van customers.

“The Ford Transit Custom is a new kind of Transit, with a distinctive new design direction and a host of advanced features that will appeal to our customers,” Graziano said.

Australian customers will be able to get behind the wheel of the Ford Transit Custom and Ford Transit Cargo early next year. The Ford Transit Cargo adds the flexibility of multiple combinations for customers, which will include multiple roof heights, Single and Double Cab chassis models and a 12-seater bus.

The Ford Transit Custom and Ford Transit Cargo are both important components of Ford’s transition story in Australia.

“We’re committed to offering our customers the latest technologies and design and that includes providing wider choices for those customers seeking more versatility from their van,” Graziano said. “Both are stylish, modern vans that our customers will be proud to have in their driveway and yet will have the hard-working attitude customers expected of a Ford Transit.”

The newest Ford Transit Custom and Ford Transit Cargo are the latest in a long line of market-defining Transits, which have sold 7 million vehicles since the first model was introduced in 1965.

Bold new appearance, strong driver appeal

The Ford Transit Custom “International Van of the Year 2013” features a bold new exterior which embodies the same dynamic character as Ford’s latest passenger cars.

The new model offers class-competitive load carrying ability, including a number of innovative new load-space features, such as a unique integrated roof rack system and an ingenious load-through hatch in the bulkhead for extra-long items.

In the cab, there is a modern, driver-focused cockpit, which features a sculpted instrument panel that combines stylish looks with smart stowage solutions for bottles, phones and papers.

Once behind the wheel, the driver can call upon a wide range of driver assistance technologies shared with Ford’s latest passenger cars, including the Ford SYNC voice-activated connectivity system.

The strong driver appeal of the Ford Transit Custom is reinforced by dynamics and performance which have been carefully tuned to reflect the same natural and easy-to-drive character which customers appreciate on Ford’s passenger car range, together with much reduced noise levels.

Built tough for maximum occupant protection, and extreme durability

Designed to be the safest Ford Transits ever, the Ford Transit Custom features an optimised body structure to maximise occupant protection that features ultra-high-strength Boron steel for the first time on a Ford Transit.

Like all Ford commercial vehicles which share the Transit badge, the all-new Ford Transit Custom has been developed to offer exceptional cost-of-ownership and durability.

The all-new Ford Transit Custom has also been subjected to Ford’s ultra-stringent Commercial Vehicle testing and durability standards.

Even before the vehicle goes on sale, it will have been driven the equivalent of five million kilometres, including at least 400,000 km with existing Transit customers.

Key components and systems are tested to the limit: for example, front doors go through an intensive regime of 250,000 non-stop slam cycles, which is three times more punishing than Ford’s equivalent passenger car test.

The Ford Transit Custom will feature Ford’s latest 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine.

Apart from Australia, the Ford Transit Custom and Ford Transit Cargo will be sold in more than 90 markets worldwide.

Full specification and features of both the Ford Transit Custom and Ford Transit Cargo will be revealed closer to launch.

Source: Ford.com

Hot-Selling Ford Police Interceptor Utility Vehicle Now Offers 365-Horsepower EcoBoost Engine

• Ford adds 3.5-liter EcoBoost^® utility vehicle model to Police Interceptor lineup to provide best-in-class horsepower and torque for police agencies

• Since launch of the new Ford Police Interceptor products in 2012, the utility model accounts for half of the company’s police vehicle sales

Dearborn, Mich., Aug. 20, 2013 - Ford today announced police agencies will soon be able to order a Ford Police Interceptor utility vehicle with the 365-horsepower 3.5-liter EcoBoost^® V6.

The engine, which delivers 350 lb.-ft. of torque, has been available in a variety of Ford vehicles, including the Police Interceptor sedan, and is the choice for more than 40 percent of Ford F-150 truck buyers.

“We continue to look at ways we can offer our customers additional product enhancements to further meet their unique needs,” said Gerry Koss, Ford fleet marketing manager. “Our Police Advisory Board and customers across the country identified the EcoBoost engine as their No. 1 want in the Police Interceptor utility vehicle.”

Agencies often need to outfit vehicles with an increasing amount of equipment, but still require first-responder, pursuit-capable performance and handling; the new Ford Police Interceptor utility vehicle is designed to meet these requirements.

“With the Police Interceptor utility vehicle representing half of our police orders, it is evident our two-vehicle strategy was on target,” said Koss. “Our engineering team designed this vehicle specifically for the police market.”

The Police Interceptor utility has received very positive feedback from law enforcement agencies, including the performance of the standard 3.7-liter Ti-VCT V6 engine, which delivers 304 horsepower and 279 lb.-ft. of torque, said Bill Gubing, chief engineer for Police Interceptor.

Gubing cited recently released results of Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department testing and evaluation of 2013 model year vehicles, which show Ford’s Police Interceptor utility vehicle swept all categories, including acceleration, braking, 32-lap high-speed and pursuit versus the Chevrolet Tahoe equipped with a 5.3-liter V8 engine.

“The 3.5-liter EcoBoost will offer best-in-class performance and top-notch fuel economy,” said Gubing. “That means law enforcement agencies that require this level of capability won’t have to compromise.

“It also complements our strategy of offering a choice of either sedan or utility vehicle based on a common platform, and sharing a large amount of common components, including powertrains, brakes, wheels/tires, seats and maintenance items,” Gubing added.

Lt. Charlie Powell, commander of fleet operations for Nevada Highway Patrol, said Ford “has made a good vehicle even more impressive” with the addition of the EcoBoost engine for the Police Interceptor utility vehicle. “This is good news,” he said. “We at Nevada Highway Patrol look forward to putting this platform in the field as soon as practical.”

Ford’s Police Interceptor engine strategy provides a V6 lineup that outperforms V8 engines of years past. The Police Interceptor sedan is available with three powertrain options – a 3.5-liter V6 with front-wheel drive, 3.7-liter V6 with all-wheel drive and the powerhouse 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine with all-wheel drive – allowing police to choose the powerplant that best meets their patrol requirements.

For more information on Ford Police Interceptor, visit www.FordPoliceInterceptor.com.

Source: Ford.com

Technology Helps Fiesta Outsell Competitive Subcompacts As Ford Sees Fastest Share Growth Among Millennials

• The stylish, fuel-efficient and technology-loaded Ford Fiesta outsold the Toyota and Scion brands’ triplet of subcompact vehicles in the first half of 2013, and is drawing a younger audience of 46 percent gen Y and gen X buyers – compared to Toyota’s 36 percent average

• Based on Ford analysis of Polk retail registration data, the Ford brand has grown its retail share of the millennial market faster than any other automotive brand since 2009 – a pace that would soon make Ford the No. 1 choice for young buyers

• Fifty-four percent of Fiesta buyers cite Ford SYNC^® technology as a top purchase driver compared to Toyota’s 37 percent average; 2014 Fiesta SE with Super Fuel Economy package is EPA-rated at 41 mpg highway – the only subcompact to achieve more than 40 mpg

• One Ford global product strategy continues delivering innovations more rapidly, as the freshened 2014 Ford Fiesta adds the award-winning 1.0-liter EcoBoost^® engine and MyFord Touch^® driver connect technology

DEARBORN, Mich., Aug. 23, 2013 - Fiesta was first of a wave of new global products from Ford that has helped the company turn the tables on imports in the United States, with increasing sales and a pace of millennial market share growth that soon could make Ford the top auto brand for young buyers.

The new Fiesta is significantly freshened, with more style, technology and fuel efficiency – keys to Ford’s sales and young-buyer surges. Fiesta has helped outsell Toyota and Scion’s three subcompact vehicles, 45,831 units to 32,510 units in 2013.

Based on Polk retail registration data, the Ford brand has had the fastest retail share growth of any U.S. brand among shoppers 18 to 34 years old, posting an 80 percent increase from the first half of 2009 to the first half of 2013, compared to a 35 percent increase for the industry overall.

“Fiesta started the momentum we are seeing across our car and crossover lineups, which is helping us attract younger buyers and grow in coastal markets where the imports long have dominated,” says Amy Marentic, marketing manager, large cars and crossovers. “We are adding the EcoBoost engine and MyFord Touch to the new Fiesta because we have younger buyers switching to us for unique features such as SYNC that cannot be found on other small cars.”

The data indicate Ford brand retail share increased with these buyers 3.1 points, from 9.4 percent to 12.5 percent during that time – more than any brand in America. This growth is led by Ford vehicles such as Fiesta, Focus, C-MAX, Escape, Fusion and Explorer – which combined account for nearly 70 percent of the increase.

The new Fiesta features MyFord Touch^® driver connect technology, and later this year will offer Ford’s acclaimed 1.0-liter EcoBoost^® engine. Fiesta also offers a rear view camera, leather seats and sunroof – features not available on Toyota Yaris or Scion iQ or xD. Fiesta SE with Super Fuel Economy package is EPA-rated at 41 mpg highway, the only subcompact to achieve more than 40 mpg.

These types of innovations are helping Fiesta draw a younger audience of 46 percent gen Y and gen X buyers compared to Toyota and Scion’s 36 percent subcompact average, according to internal Ford data. Ford SYNC^®, Fiesta’s voice-activated technology, is cited as an important purchase reason by 54 percent of buyers compared to Toyota’s 37 percent average.

The subcompact B-segment is a key market for cultivating loyalty, and is the fastest-growing non-premium segment in the United States. Nearly one-third of Fiesta customers are first-time buyers, and 67 percent choose another Ford when it comes time to trade in.

Fiesta is a top Ford vehicle for bringing in buyers on the coasts, with 45 percent of its customers on the east or west coast, compared to the company’s 38 percent average across the lineup.

These younger consumers trend toward smaller vehicles that fit with more urban lifestyles. They are also looking for a car that offers strong fuel economy while not sacrificing the fun-to-drive factor.

“Gone are the days when loading up a B-segment vehicle meant adding power windows, door locks and air conditioning,” says Marentic. “Today’s millennials and gen Xers demand the kinds of technology features that allow them to stay connected while behind the wheel, and to fully integrate the mobile devices they depend on every day.”

One Ford, many innovations
Thanks to One Ford global product strategy and Fiesta’s roots as one of the top-selling vehicles in the world, North American customers benefit from advanced innovations not found on competitors such as Toyota Yaris or Scion xD. Fiesta technologies include standard SYNC and an available 6.5-inch LCD screen with MyFord Touch, AppLink^™, rear view camera and sensors, Intelligent Access with push-button start and Sony HD Radio.

Further, Fiesta allows for personalization through touches such as an adaptable ambient lighting system and custom exterior graphics, as well as higher-end options such as leather seats and a sunroof.

For 2014, Fiesta offers new powertrain options, with increased performance from the efficient, 197-horsepower 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine in the new Fiesta ST, along with the award-winning 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine.

“Younger buyers are savvy consumers, what we call forensic buyers, with reams of data at their fingertips,” says Marentic. “They can find out nearly instantly if your car has as many bells and whistles as others, and if it is a good value.”

Source: Ford.com

Ford Helps Businesses Design Ultimate ‘Billboard On Wheels’ Through New Custom Graphics Tool

• Ford helps business owners design, quote, share and purchase custom-designed vehicle wraps through redesigned and simplified Ford Commercial Graphics tool

• Improvements to the tool include access to more than 5 million images from the library of Getty Images, and an on-call designer to help businesses design their brand image

• Custom options are available for the all-new Ford Transit family; the tool can be used by both small and large businesses to create a custom “billboard on wheels”

DEARBORN, Mich., Aug. 27, 2013 - Entrepreneurs and businesses that want to develop the ultimate “billboard on wheels” now have access to Ford’s redesigned custom vehicle graphics site, www.fordcommercialgraphics.com.

Improvements to the Ford Commercial Graphics tool have made the process of creating, ordering and purchasing vehicle wraps simpler than ever. The tool’s cleaner interface, ability to better customize images visually and streamlined ordering process provides customers with more control than ever to develop their brand image, said Kevin Koswick, Ford’s director of North American fleet, lease and remarketing operations.

“The site accommodates a variety of designs and budgets – from businesses that operate a single vehicle to larger fleets,” Koswick said. “Graphics are a tremendous way to make a first impression and the retooling of this site helps customers make a better design more easily.”

For even more choices and inspiration, customers now have the ability to tap into more than 5 million images from the library of Getty Images, a world leader in stock photos. Customers also can upload their own pictures.

A new service through 3M, the company that produces Ford Commercial Graphics, allows customers to work with on-staff designers to develop a theme for their vehicle, helping businesses enhance their brand.

“It’s a true advantage to have design experts take customers through the design process of their vehicle wrap,” Koswick said. “The business still has control over the design of its graphic, but our team can help them refine their brand image.”

All production is done in-house, and installation is handled by the customer’s certified Ford dealer or a specially trained installation company obtained through the dealer. Designs are covered with a clear over-laminate to add durability to the product and lessen the effects of UV light on the material. Graphics are designed to last from three to five years.

The site also allows customers to share their designs through social media sites including Facebook, giving businesses the opportunity to become even more interactive with their community and receive early feedback on designs.

Operators of the original Ford Transit Connect were among the first to take advantage of customizing their vehicles through this graphics service. Now Ford offers the option throughout its fleet of commercial vehicles so that customers of F-Series Super Duty, E-Series, the new Transit Connect and the upcoming Transit van can raise awareness for their business.

“One of the strengths of Ford’s commercial vehicles, like the Transit family, is that they are available in several configurations that can be easily customized for small-business owners,” said Koswick. “This website mirrors that versatility to allow customers to create their vision of the ideal rolling billboard for their business.”

Source: Ford.com

Ford S-MAX Concept Evolves Unique White Space Appeal With Beautifully Crafted Design And Smart Technology

COLOGNE, Germany, Aug. 28, 2013 – Ford Motor Company today revealed the new Ford S MAX Concept, a new sport activity vehicle that takes the style-without-compromise ethos of the popular current S-MAX to new levels with a sharper design, advanced technology, and premium craftsmanship.  

“When Ford unveiled the SAV – sport activity vehicle – Concept in 2005 it immediately captured the public’s imagination and inspired us to produce today’s S-MAX, a true white space vehicle,” said Barb Samardzich, vice president, Product Development, Ford of Europe. “Our new S-MAX Concept takes that unique appeal to the next level with Ford’s latest design and technology innovations for a new generation.”

The new S MAX Concept employs the latest Ford global design language with a high mounted grille, swept-back headlamps and a unique treatment of the vehicle’s lower fascia that includes design elements that appear to float within the lower front aperture and above the spoiler.

The characteristic S-MAX profile has been honed with the front bonnet sweeping seamlessly into the sharply raked front screen, which in turn flows into the dynamic arc of the roof to create a unique glass roof graphic. This sleek silhouette surrounds a spacious and versatile interior that offers anything from four-to seven-seat configurations.

“S MAX drivers are passionate and bring high expectations – they see their S-MAX as a one-of-a-kind vehicle,” said Martin Smith, executive design director, Ford of Europe. “Our mission was to exceed their expectations in every area while respecting the core of what they love about the S-MAX.”

Further exterior design cues include a feature line running along the side of the vehicle to deliver an impression of length and speed, sculptured muscular shoulders, and distinctive headlamps featuring Organic LEDs – the latest development in lighting that offers greater flexibility in terms of positioning and design, fast response and colour range.

The S MAX Concept interior is an expression of cutting-edge design, convenience, connectivity, flexibility, and craftsmanship.

The front cabin places the focus firmly on the driver. Dynamic shapes and forms combine in a high-set instrument panel that cuts back in the centre console and creates a feeling of space. The door panels are similarly sculptured and an innovative interior roof design maximises the feeling of spaciousness.

High quality materials, including an ultra-soft leather wrap for the instrument panel, and leather and carbon fibre detailing for the sculptured seats, give the interior a sophisticated aura.

“The fine detailing and visible craftsmanship in areas such as the instrument panel air vents reward the driver for really paying attention,” said Smith. “Each and every element of the interior stands up to close inspection with intricate and thoroughly considered design.”

The Ford S MAX Concept also employs leading-edge Ford features and technologies to provide customers with new levels of connectivity and well-being as well as safety, convenience, and driving appeal.

The Ford SYNC system sits at the heart of the vehicle’s advanced connectivity features. Ford SYNC with MyFord Touch delivers wireless internet access for passengers, supported by a tablet docking station that allows second row occupants to seamlessly integrate their personal devices into the vehicle.

SYNC AppLink enables the driver to voice-control smart phone apps from an expanding list of service providers, which include Spotify, Kaliki, Glympse and Aha, bringing additional music, news, personalised information as well as location and navigation options into the vehicle.

SYNC also enables additional features to improve health and well-being:

Ford’s ECG Heart Rate Monitoring Seat records the driver’s heart rate, delivering long-term heart activity data that would otherwise need to be recorded at medical centres, and offers the potential to connect with Ford SYNC to alert remote medical experts to unusual activity or even trigger active safety systems to take over in a case of emergency.

Glucose Level Monitoring connects with Ford SYNC could warn parents if a sleeping child in the rear seats suffers a diabetic episode

Sophisticated communications and sensor systems provide the S-MAX Concept with detailed information about the driving environment, to enhance awareness and safety.

Ford’s advanced car-to-car communications technology enables the vehicle to talk to similarly equipped vehicles, delivering warnings in the event of oncoming traffic on the wrong side of the motorway, or if a vehicle has stopped in a potentially dangerous situation such as a blind bend in the road.

Ford Intelligent Protection System with Pre-Collision Assist identifies pedestrians and automatically applies the brakes if a collision is imminent.

Advanced version of Active Park Assist featuring perpendicular parking capability, park out assist and Cross Traffic Alert is the next generation of Ford parking technology, able to control steering, gear selection and fore and aft movement, and assist drivers in leaving parking bays by alerting them to approaching traffic.

The interior design offers a range of smart solutions to enhance flexibility and versatility. Thin Seat Technology is employed in the third row of seats, enabling the seats to be raised and lowered in a single action with minimum effort. An intelligent second row of seats makes it easy to get in and out, with a centre seat that folds into the vehicle‘s floor and allows for maximum versatility.

Dual-View Display in the centre console delivers different images to the driver and front passenger using the same screen, ensuring the driver receives important information without being distracted, while the front passenger can enjoy a movie at the same time.

High-efficiency powertrain features the all-new 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol engine with turbocharging, twin-independent variable camshaft timing and further advanced technologies to enhance power and fuel economy.

“The new S-MAX Concept is not only a unique proposition in terms of its uncompromised combination of styling, versatility and driver-focused dynamics, but also through its innovative technologies delivering superior safety, well-being and seamlessly integrated connectivity,” said Pim van der Jagt, executive technical leader, Ford Research and Advanced Engineering. “With the S-MAX Concept we aimed to demonstrate just how wide a scope of technologies Ford is preparing to deliver for customers in future generations of vehicles.”

Source: Ford.com

2015 Ford F-Series Super Duty Features Improved Power Stroke Diesel, Stronger F-450, Revamped King Ranch Edition

• Engineering improvements boost the performance, capability and durability of the Ford-designed and Ford-built 6.7-liter Power Stroke^® V8 turbo diesel engine

• Upgraded 2015 Ford F-450 pickup offers more towing capability than ever

• 2015 Ford F-Series Super Duty King Ranch restyled, combining authentic Texas heritage with modern luxury

VIDEO: 2015 Ford Super Duty Leaves the Competition Behind

DALLAS, Texas, Sept. 26, 2013 - Ford, America’s truck leader, introduces the 2015 F-Series Super Duty lineup today at State Fair of Texas, featuring a second-generation 6.7-liter Power Stroke^® V8 turbo diesel engine; increased towing capabilities; and a refreshed, Texas-inspired King Ranch model.

“Truck leadership means never resting, and the Super Duty team has been tireless in finding ways to improve the industry’s most popular heavy-duty pickups,” said Joe Hinrichs, executive vice president and president of The Americas, Ford Motor Company. “Super Duty diesel customers will benefit from improved performance and features backed by outstanding Built Ford Tough durability.”

Since the 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel debuted in 2011, Ford engineers have listened to customers and continued to examine each component of the engine to develop improved performance.

Ford is the only heavy-duty pickup truck manufacturer that designs and builds its own diesel engine and transmission combination, ensuring the powertrain will work seamlessly with all chassis components and vehicle calibrations – from concept to execution. This approach also enables Ford engineers to optimize the vehicle’s performance across the entire lineup.

A key Ford innovation on the original 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel was its so-called reverse-flow layout. The advanced design places the exhaust inside the engine’s V-shape while the air intake is positioned on the outside of the V. This segment-exclusive design naturally improves a variety of attributes:

• Shorter airflow from the exhaust system to the turbocharger sitting between the engine’s cylinder banks improves turbo responsiveness – key to providing torque quickly to truck customers when they need it most
• Positioning the turbo inside the engine’s valley helps isolate the engine’s hottest temperatures, improving performance and efficiency, while also reducing noise, vibration and harshness

Ford engineers built upon the many benefits of this design as they upgraded the Power Stroke. One improvement is a larger GT37 turbocharger that replaces the previous GT32 model, enabling more airflow to the engine to produce more power beyond today’s 400 horsepower and 800 lb.-ft. of torque.

Key components of the new GT37 turbocharger

The GT37 features a single, larger 88-millimeter compressor wheel that replaces the GT32’s dual-sided compressor design. The compressor forces air into the engine’s cylinders to improve performance – especially at high altitude where the air is thinner than at sea level. The turbine size is increased to 72.5 millimeters from 64 millimeters, so exhaust gases have a larger surface area to spin the turbo, providing extra power. The wastegate and the wastegate controls are eliminated, because the turbo operates at lower peak pressures than the GT32.

Source: Ford.com

Ford Focus Extends Streak As Best-Selling Vehicle Nameplate Worldwide Through First Half Of 2013

• Ford Focus maintains its leadership as the best-selling vehicle nameplate globally, based on Ford analysis of the latest Polk global vehicle registration data for the first half of 2013

• Globally, Focus is up 20 percent in the first half of 2013 compared with the same period last year

• In addition, Ford Fiesta ranks as the fourth best-selling vehicle overall, and is the world’s best-selling subcompact vehicle through June 2013

• Ford is the only brand with two nameplates among the global top five best-sellers

DEARBORN, Mich., Oct. 23, 2013 - Ford Focus, the best-selling vehicle nameplate in the world in 2012, retains the title for the first half of 2013.

In addition, Ford Fiesta ranks as the fourth best-selling vehicle – making Ford the only brand to have two nameplates among the global top five best-sellers, according to Ford analysis of Polk global vehicle registration data.

Ford Focus grew 20 percent in the first half of 2013 from the same period last year, to 589,709 vehicle registrations, driven primarily by increasing demand from customers in China and other Asian countries. Focus in China is up 137 percent from 2012, to a total of 202,380 vehicles, making China the single biggest global market for the car with one-third of Focus sales.

Xiao Bing, a 31-year-old sales manager for an IT company in Beijing, is one such new Focus customer.

“The new Focus looks high-tech and meets my aesthetic expectations,” Bing says. “It has significantly changed from the previous model. The car’s handling is great. When I test-drove it, the new Focus cornered smoothly. Overall, it’s the best combination of looks, performance, value and fuel economy.”

Customers are responding enthusiastically to Focus in other Asian countries, as well. Through September, Ford reports Focus sales are up 193 percent in Indonesia, 72 percent in both the Philippines and Vietnam, and 42 percent in Thailand.

Fiesta Also a Best-Seller

Ford Fiesta joins Focus among the five global best-sellers, and earns the top spot as the best-selling subcompact car globally, with 356,434 units registered in the first half of 2013.

“Fiesta is off to a terrific start, and Focus just keeps getting better – especially in China,” said Jim Farley, Ford executive vice president, global marketing, sales and service and Lincoln. “This is One Ford at its best: great-looking vehicles with great fuel economy, leading quality, technology and fun-to-drive personalities.”

Combined, global registrations of Ford’s small cars – Fiesta and Focus – total 946,143 vehicles for the first six months of the year, representing an 8 percent increase.

Source: Ford.com

Ford C-MAX Energi, Fusion Energi Overtake Toyota In Plug-In Hybrid Sales

• Ford C-MAX Energi and Ford Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid vehicles deliver best sales month ever, outpacing sales of the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid vehicle

• Sales of Ford plug-in hybrid vehicles in October shatter previous record by 45 percent

• Ford catapults from zero market share to 34 percent in 13 months in the plug-in hybrid vehicle market

DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 4, 2013 - Ford Motor Company took over the No. 1 spot in plug-in hybrid vehicle sales of the Ford Fusion Energi and Ford C-MAX Energi in October, outpacing sales of the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid vehicle.

Ford sold 2,179 Fusion Energi and C-MAX Energi vehicles last month, accounting for 34 percent of the total plug-in hybrid market. Toyota sold 2,095 units of its Prius plug-in hybrid vehicle.

It is Ford’s best month ever for plug-in hybrid sales, shattering the previous record of 1,508 vehicles sold in September, a 45 percent increase. Ford’s plug-in hybrid vehicles – Fusion Energi and C-MAX Energi – hit this sales milestone just one year after introduction of C-MAX Energi and less than a year since launch of Fusion Energi.

Plug-in hybrid sales are beginning to gain traction in some key growth markets for Ford across the United States.

California continues to account for 38 percent of all Ford plug-in hybrid vehicle sales, but plug-ins are strengthening in the midwestern and eastern regions. New York, Boston, Detroit, Chicago, Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia combine to make up 32 percent of the C-MAX Energi market. Those same cities make up 34 percent of the market for Fusion Energi. New York alone comes close to unseating San Francisco as the second most popular market for Fusion Energi.

Fusion Energi sales in October doubled in New York, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. from the previous month.

Plug-in hybrid sales for the industry are up 32 percent year-to-date. The industry sold 39,083 vehicles through October, compared to 29,526 vehicles in 2012. October plug-in hybrid sales came within 40 units of setting an all-time monthly record for the segment.

Through September, aggregate data collected through MyFord^® Mobile show Ford plug-in hybrids are being driven about 203,000 electric miles a day, enough to drive around the earth nearly eight times, or more than 8,400 electric-only miles an hour. These numbers are rapidly increasing as Ford continues investing in infrastructure while features exclusive to Ford plug-ins help improve driving habits.

Through MyFord Mobile and other features such as SmartGauge^® with EcoGuide, data show how driving habits evolve and how electric-only miles rapidly accumulate. After six months of vehicle ownership, nearly 30 percent of all trips are taken gas-free, compared to about 20 percent at the beginning of ownership.

Source: Ford.com