We Love Ford's, Past, Present And Future.

Could This Be The Next Ford Fusion

2012-01-11T13:09:00.002-06:00

Click Here to see more pictures, and Click Here for the article.

Source: Motortrend.com

Battle On For Car Of The Year

2012-01-10T14:10:00.002-06:00

Click Here to read the article at AOL Autos.

The All-New Ford Escape

2012-01-02T12:15:00.001-06:00

Ford’s newest sport utility vehicle (SUV) arrives next year, bringing clever technologies and features designed to make life easier, and fuel economy projected to top any vehicle of its kind on the market

Versatile vehicle features new hands-free technology – including liftgate with motion-sensing technology similar to video games’ and upgraded MyFord Touch® system that makes connecting with digital devices on the go even easier

New Escape’s projected fuel economy is up to 5 mpg better than outgoing Escape; 1.6- and 2.0-liter EcoBoost® engines save customers fuel and money

Customers globally will start seeing this sleek small SUV next year, too. Named the Ford Kuga in Europe and China, this vehicle makes its international debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March and will offer unique powertrains and features for customers in those markets

Source: Ford

Safe and Secure Inflatable Rear Safety Belts

2012-01-02T12:09:00.001-06:00

Inflatable rear outboard safety belts help reduce the risk of injury while providing support to the head and neck.

A world-first in safety and comfort.

Introducing the world's first automotive production inflatable rear outboard safety belts. They're the latest evolution in safety and comfort from Ford. In the event of a frontal or side crash, the inflated belt is designed to deploy in less than the blink of an eye. Its unique design helps distribute crash force energy across more of the occupant's torso than a traditional belt, which helps reduce the risk of injury while providing support for the head and neck. After deployment, the belt remains inflated for several seconds before dispersing its air through the pores in the airbag. Inflatable safety belts are compatible with child safety seats. Because inflatable belts are not as large as traditional front airbags, they can fill at a lower pressure and at a slower rate. Ford research showed that more than 90 percent of people who tested the inflatable safety belts found them to be similar or more comfortable than a conventional belt because the belts feel padded and softer.

Source: Ford

Ford to Preview All-New Global Vehicle at the Delhi Auto Expo 2012

2011-12-05T17:24:00.001-06:00

Ford All-New Global Vehicle

Ford will use Auto Expo 2012 in New Delhi for the global preview of an all-new vehicle, providing the first glimpse of another next-generation vehicle for India and other global markets

Ford's all-new vehicle will join a showcase of 12 vehicles on display to capture the attention of customers

The Ford stand will use the latest technology to deliver a lively and interactive experience for customers

NEW DELHI, India, Dec. 19, 2011 – Visitors to the Ford stand at the 11th Auto Expo 2012 in New Delhi next month will get the first glimpse of an all-new vehicle planned for introduction in India and other global markets in the near future. With expected attendance of 1.4 million visitors, Auto Expo 2012 is an ideal location to showcase the newest Ford product.

This next-generation vehicle will take centre stage on Ford's high-tech and interactive stand, which will cover roughly 1,400 square meters. Highlights planned for Auto Expo 2012 include comprehensive safety and quality displays, a 3D theater, live shows and a crowd-sourced, interactive driving game.

The new vehicle will be the latest One Ford global product, a vehicle designed to help expand Ford's footprint in the world's fastest-growing auto markets, including India. It will be the second of eight products Ford plans to bring to India by mid-decade.

Fleet of Ford Vehicles on Display

Also on the Ford stand will be the Ford Figo, the All-New Fiesta, the Ford Classic and the Ford Endeavour.

The Figo has already sold around 130,000 units since its launch in March 2010. While the Figo has only been in the Indian market for a short time, it has become the country's most awarded car ever, and has garnered industry-wide recognition as a great value-for-money vehicle, which is exported to close to 30 international markets.

The Ford Classic, as it is known today, has established a strong foothold in the Indian market by winning more than 120,000 customers with its on-road dynamics and best-in-class fuel efficiency, while the Ford Endeavour is a popular all-action SUV.

The All-New Ford Fiesta four-door sedan, soon to be available with the new best-in-class PowerShift automatic transmission, also will be on display. A premium offering in the B-car segment, it is another positive step in Ford's strategy to bring the latest technology to customers in India. Compared to traditional four-speed automatics, the PowerShift transmission can improve fuel economy by up to 9 percent, depending on the vehicle.

Ford Stand Bursting With Activity

The Ford stand will take advantage of the latest technology to deliver a lively and interactive experience for customers.

A major highlight will be allowing the audience to take control of a vehicle on a large LED screen – virtually. Using a motion-sensing camera, the crowd will collectively be able to control the vehicle as it rolls along the road, and unlock information at each bend. The display will prompt the crowd to lean left and right during a short drive as it shows highlights of the route.

Photos from this event will be taken during each game and uploaded to a Facebook gallery, where visitors can tag themselves.

Ford also will have a Figo Theatre that allows customers to sit inside the car and watch a film played on a plasma television in front of the windscreen. The video will explain the Figo's Smart technologies.

Another theatre, in 3D, will showcase the technologies Ford takes advantage of in designing, developing and engineering its vehicles. Guests will navigate a virtual car interior under the guidance of a Ford engineer.

A Quality Touch Table will provide guests with a hands-on opportunity to feel the quality of the materials used in Ford vehicles, while a Green Touch Table will demonstrate the long-term value of Ford's green technology, delivering on Ford's commitment to provide customers with low total cost of ownership.

A Fiesta body shell also will be on display, giving visitors an opportunity to discover the engineering features that make the Fiesta safe, sturdy and secure on the road.

Guests will be entertained by a local magician who will perform on the stand, telling Ford's safety stories in a fun way.

Auto Expo 2012 runs from January 7-11 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

Source: Ford

The Ford Mystere Concept

2011-11-05T17:55:00.002-05:00

The Ford Mystere concept car was introduced to the press on October 5, 1955. The full-sized Mystere featured a hinged bubble glass top, rear fins, and a rear engine compartment designed to accommodate either a gas-turbine or conventional engine.

Source: Ford

America’s Favorite Classic Mustang – the ’65 Convertible – Returns with All-New Ford-Approved Body Shell

2011-11-05T17:42:00.002-05:00

Matt Patrias and Ed Orzechowski adjust the driver’s door on the new Ford-licensed 1965 Mustang convertible body shell. The new body shell is made from high-quality, automotive-grade steel that is better than the original and features modern welding techniques. It makes its debut Nov. 1 at the SEMA show in Las Vegas. More information is available at www.fordrestorationparts.com.

The original Mustang – America’s favorite classic convertible – can now be assembled complete with all-new Ford-approved restoration parts

New first-generation Mustang body shells can be made into ’64½, ’65 or ’66 models, depending on the trim and powertrain that is installed during the rebuild

New ’65 Mustang body shells are made with stronger steel and use modern welding techniques, making them better than the original

DEARBORN, Mich., Oct. 28, 2011 – It’s a classic car lover’s dream come true: Now it is possible to build a ’64½, ’65 or ’66 Mustang convertible from the wheels up using the all-new Ford-approved and officially licensed body shell.

The body shell for the original Mustang convertible, now in production and available for restorers as a Ford-licensed restoration part, gives classic car enthusiasts a new option in putting their classic dream Mustang ragtop back on the road.

“The 1964-66 Mustang is the most restored vintage vehicle. But the number of original 1964-66 vintage bodies is shrinking every year,” said Dennis Mondrach, Ford Restoration Parts licensing manager. “Most of the original Mustangs left in scrapyards are rusted or wrecked beyond repair. The new body shell is made of virgin metal and uses modern welding techniques. It comes rustproofed, and after final adjustment and finish preparation of the body panels, it is ready for painting and final assembly.”

To build a restored Mustang using the new shell, the powertrain, suspension and brakes, the electrical systems, the interior and trim can either be bought new or transferred from an existing car to the new body. Original parts that can’t be reused from an old Mustang can be replaced with Ford-approved restoration parts. Mondrach says that nearly all the parts needed to build a complete new 1964-66 Mustang convertible, except for some minor body hardware, are now available from Ford-approved classic parts suppliers.

Ford-approved Mustang restoration parts can be found at www.fordrestorationparts.com.

For a restoration part to be approved by Ford, suppliers must meet or exceed the fit, finish and quality of the original, said Mondrach. In order to keep classic Ford-built vehicles on the road, Ford allows parts suppliers access to original technical drawings, blueprints and specifications for parts.

The new body shell not only can save restorers time and money, but enable them to build a strong, well-engineered classic.

“Instead of spending money fixing rust and welding in new panels, restorers can now simply transfer their powertrain, interior and trim parts onto the new body shell,” said Mondrach.

The ’65 Mustang body shell is constructed of higher-grade steel than the original, said Jim Christina, vice president of Dynacorn International, the Ford-approved company that is manufacturing the ’65 Mustang. “We use a modern universal automotive-grade steel that is actually stronger than the original, and modern welding techniques along with more welds to strengthen the body,” Christina said.

The ’65 body is in production now and can be delivered by freight truck to any address. The ’65 Mustang body includes the doors and trunk lid and all the sheet metal from the radiator support to the taillight panel except the hood and front fenders. Those items are available separately. The ’65 Mustang body shell starts at $15,000.

America’s love affair with the original Mustang is still going strong after nearly 50 years. Debuting in April 1964, the original Mustang sold more than 1.2 million units – including more than 174,000 convertibles – before its first redesign in 1967. The 1964-66 Mustang has long been America’s most popular classic car of the postwar era. It is frequently the No. 1 most insured car at Hagerty Insurance, the world’s No. 1 insurer of classic and collectible cars.

The new body shell can be made into a 1964½, 1965 or 1966 Mustang, based on the powertrains and trim parts added to it. It is the third classic Mustang body shell now available to restorers. The other two are the 1967-68 and the 1969-70 fastback bodies.

Ford will display a new 1965 Mustang body shell Tuesday through Thursday at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas. It will be parked next to a restored 1965 convertible to demonstrate the high quality of the assembly.

Source: Ford

Recycled Plastic Bottles Find New Use in Carpeting of Next Ford Escape

2011-11-05T17:38:00.003-05:00

Based on 180,000 YTD sales, more than 4 million plastic bottles could be diverted from landfills by putting them in the all-new Ford Escape.

DEARBORN, Mich., Oct. 20, 2011 – They’re found nearly everywhere – on desks and in break rooms at work, on kitchen tables and counters at home, rolling under seats in cars, on the sidelines of athletic fields and heaped in trash cans and recycling bins.

They’re plastic beverage bottles, and seemingly not of much use when they’re empty.

But not at Ford. Ford is using 25 20-ounce plastic bottles to make the carpeting in every all-new Ford Escape utility vehicle it builds. It’s the first time Ford has used this type of carpeting in an SUV.

“It’s a good use of recycled product and keeps it out of landfills,” said Laura Sinclair, a materials engineer for Ford and mother of two young boys.

All materials – green or not – have to pass extensive durability tests. Sinclair and her team look for “chalking” during these tests – the fibers degrade and mash themselves in to form a white residue as they break apart. Chalking, or dusting, is the precursor to a hole forming in the carpet.

“The discoloration is one of the first signs of wear, and of course something the customer will see right away,” Sinclair said.

The testing is done on a device called a Taber 5150, which looks similar to a record player. A carpet sample about the size of a DVD is placed in the middle and spins while two weights rub the sample to simulate accelerated wear.

“We run the tests almost daily and can simulate five or more years of service in 10 to 15 minutes,” Sinclair said.

Part of the recipe to improve the carpet involves adding more plastic bottles to the mix.

“The polyester fibers created from pop bottles make up a nonwoven carpet material,” Sinclair said. “So think of it like when you make spaghetti – everything is intermixed. If you have more fibers running on each other – rather than what’s underneath, which can be more abrasive – that helps reduce wear.”

So adding more recycled bottles can help the carpet not wear as quickly, as well as help avoid the Fred Flintstone effect of your feet going through the bottom of your vehicle.

Also helping to mitigate wear is that the carpeting for the new Escape will be backed with cast foam. Cast foam helps reduce road noise and also fills in ridges and crevices for a smoother backing.

This attention to detail is something Sinclair enjoys.

“I like being a materials engineer because it is hands-on and what we do has a great impact on our customers’ perception of quality,” Sinclair said.

The carpet is supplied by Autoneum and produced at its plant in Bloomsburg, Pa.

The all-new Ford Escape, complete with carpets made from recycled bottles, will make its global debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show on Nov. 16.

Source: Ford

Where Henry and Clara Ford Called “Home”

2011-11-05T17:28:00.002-05:00

By 1914, Henry Ford's fame had reached global proportions, and he and Clara were ready for a home that offered them more privacy and a chance to indulge in their interests in gardening and bird watching.

Henry and Clara chose to build their new home on a 1,300-acre tract of land in Dearborn, Michigan, approximately two miles from Mr. Ford’s birthplace. The new fifty-six room residence and estate were named “Fair Lane” after an area in County Cork, Ireland, the birthplace of Mr. Ford's foster grandfather, Patrick Ahern.

Fair Lane

By 1914, Henry Ford's fame had reached global proportions, and he and Clara were ready for a home that offered them more privacy and a chance to indulge in their interests in gardening and bird watching.

Henry and Clara chose to build their new home on a 1,300-acre tract of land in Dearborn, Michigan, approximately two miles from Mr. Ford’s birthplace. The new fifty-six room residence and estate were named “Fair Lane” after an area in County Cork, Ireland, the birthplace of Mr. Ford's foster grandfather, Patrick Ahern.

Fair Lane: a Fitting Home

In keeping with the Fords’ love of nature, Fair Lane was built with rough-hewn Ohio limestone to harmonize with the surrounding countryside. The grounds, designed by noted landscape architect Jens Jensen, were transformed from farmland into a natural, native landscape.

During the Fords' residency, Fair Lane bustled with activity. In addition to the residence and its powerhouse, the estate included a summer house, man-made lake, staff cottages, gatehouse, pony barn, skating house, greenhouse, root cellar, vegetable garden, 1,000-plant peony garden, 10,000-plant rose garden, a "Santa's Workshop" for Christmas celebrations, maple sugar shack, working farm for the Ford grandchildren built to their scale, agricultural research facilities and 500 birdhouses.

Green Power

Henry Ford had long been interested in alternative energy. When he built Fair Lane, he harnessed the power of the Rouge River to run the estate entirely on hydroelectric power.

Fair Lane’s hydroelectric power was generated in a stand-alone powerhouse on the property. The powerhouse was dedicated by Thomas Alva Edison, Henry Ford's good friend and the famous inventor, in October 1914. The eight-foot dam powered two 55-kilowatt generators that continue to function today.

This dam was particularly important to Henry Ford, not only because it provided efficient and inexpensive power, but also because it was non-polluting. Ford cared deeply about the natural world and made efforts large and small throughout his life not to affect it adversely and to conserve it whenever he could.
Reducing Fair Lane’s Environmental Impact

Around his home, Ford installed bat houses to control mosquitoes organically and avoid the need to introduce harmful chemicals into the environment. Stories abound of the incredible lengths Ford took to make sure that local wildlife was safely relocated before he’d begin work at a new site—including stories that he would hire boys to track down every last squirrel! And in 1913 he was instrumental in getting the McLean Migratory Bird Bill (to protect the birds from illegal hunting) through Congress, where it otherwise would likely have been ignored without Ford's strong campaigning.

Fair Lane Today

Henry Ford died at Fair Lane in 1947, and Mrs. Ford lived there until her death three years later. In 1952, the Ford Motor Company purchased the estate from the heirs. In 1957, the company donated the residence, powerhouse, 210 acres, and $6.5 million to the University of Michigan for the creation of the Dearborn campus.

Today, an Environmental Interpretive Center and the River Rouge Bird Observatory are also located on the university grounds, where the adjacent area along the Rouge River is home to many species of birds and other animals.

The Henry Ford Estate, including 72 of the original 1,300 acres, was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1966. Public tours of the historic home have been ongoing since the 1970s, and include a wide variety of educational programs.

Source: Ford

Ford Officially Confirms Transit Production in Kansas City on Heels of UAW’s Leaked “Confirmation”

2011-10-22T04:52:00.003-05:00

Click Here to read the report in Car And Driver.

2012 F150 SVT Raptor

2011-10-03T11:52:00.002-05:00

Click Here to read the review and to see more pictures.

Source: Internet

Ford Unveils 2012 Harley Davidson

2011-10-03T11:46:00.002-05:00

Click Here to read about the 2012 Harley Davidson Edition and to view more pictures.

Source: Internet

Ford Evos Concept

2011-09-19T10:22:00.002-05:00

Said to be the "ultimate expression" of Ford's new global design language, the Evos concept is a 4-door fastback sporting gull-wing doors. As you might expect, the concept is a plug-in hybrid, featuring lithium-ion battery technology. It is also able to seamlessly integrate with a driver's personal information stored in the "cloud." Ford had four key benefits in mind here — personalization, enhancement of the driving experience, a smart electrified powertrain and a means of looking after the driver's well-being. That's right — this thing will even monitor your heart rate. But we'll get into that if the tech ever sees production.

Source: Internet

Ford Focus ST

2011-09-19T10:21:00.000-05:00

The Focus ST is cool for a couple of reasons: It marks a return to the American hot-hatch, and it's attainable. How many of the cars on our list can make the latter claim? The Focus ST gets its motivation from a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, which produces 246 horsepower, and a 6-speed manual transmission sends power to the front wheels. Amazingly, the car will be sold like this in 40 markets throughout the world. Though the ST looks quite different from a run-of-the-mill Focus, the changes are more than skin deep — springs, shocks, exhaust, Recaro seats and even a unique variable-ratio steering rack add specialness, to name just a few.

Source: Internet

Ford Raptor 6-Door SUV!

2011-09-10T09:01:00.002-05:00

Ford Raptor 6-Door SUV!!!

Source: StreetFire

Ford Increases Soy Content in Foam, Adds Head Restraint as New Item for Sustainable Material

2011-09-01T14:14:00.000-05:00

•Ford and Lear Corporation have introduced a new head restraint foam with 25 percent of the polyol replaced with soy

•75 percent of Ford’s North American-built vehicles feature bio-based foam in the head restraints. Vehicles include the Ford F-150, Taurus, Explorer and Fusion

•All Ford North American-built vehicles use bio-based foam in seat cushions and backs. Ford’s use of bio-based foam has helped the company reduce its petroleum oil usage by more than 3 million pounds annually and carbon dioxide emissions by more than 15 million pounds

Dearborn, Mich., Aug. 31, 2011 – Ford and Lear Corporation are taking another leap forward in sustainable technology with the introduction of new head restraint foam that has 25 percent of the polyol replaced with soy.

Seventy-five percent of Ford’s North American vehicles feature bio-foam in the head restraints, including the Ford F-150, Taurus, Explorer and Fusion. All Ford Motor Company vehicles built in North America use bio-foam content in the seat cushions and backs.

“We are continuously looking for new ways to expand our use of bio-based foam, and head restraints are a perfect example,” said Debbie Mielewski, technical leader, Ford Plastics Research. “It’s a new location with higher soy content. We’re not stopping at head restraints, either. There are still many other applications in which traditional foam can be converted to bio-based soy foam on vehicles, such as energy-absorption areas, steering wheels and armrests.”

The extended use of soy foam results from the continued research collaboration between Ford and Lear; Ford first used sustainable soybean oil-derived seating foam on the 2008 Mustang. The collaboration also generated the recent complete conversion of all Lear North American Ford seating cushion foam to Lear SoyFoam™.

SoyFoam is up to 24 percent more renewable than petroleum-based foam. The biomaterial has helped Ford reduce its annual petroleum oil usage by more than 3 million pounds. The use of SoyFoam also has helped Ford reduce its carbon dioxide emissions by more than 15 million pounds. SoyFoam also can provide a 67 percent reduction in volatile organic compound emissions.

“Our success with the introduction of sustainable products confirms customer acceptance of the technology and the need for green automotive interior innovation,” said Ash Galbreath, director, Advanced Materials and Comfort Engineering for Lear Corporation. “Lear’s advancement of ecological breakthroughs is intended both to reduce product sensitivity to petroleum raw material price fluctuations and lessen our impact on the environment.”

A sustainable solution

Ford was the first automaker to demonstrate soy-based foam could be formulated to pass the stringent requirements for automotive applications, pioneering its use in seats for the 2008 Ford Mustang and in headliners for the 2010 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner.

Ford and Lear have earned several awards for the technology, including the Society of Plastic Engineers’ Innovation Award and R&D Magazine’s annual R&D 100 Award for development and use of soy-based foam in vehicles.

Ford continues to research the use of other renewable sources for foam, including palm, rapeseed and sunflower oil in markets around the world where those commodities are locally available and cost effective.

Eco-friendly solutions

Ford’s “Reduce, reuse and recycle” commitment is part of the company’s broader global sustainability strategy to reduce its environmental footprint while at the same time accelerating the development of advanced, fuel-efficient vehicle technologies around the world.

Over the past several years Ford has concentrated on increasing the use of non-metal recycled and bio-based materials whenever possible, provided these materials are environmentally favorable and meet all performance and durability requirements. Examples include soy foam seat cushions and gaskets, wheat straw-filled storage bins, recycled resins for underbody systems, recycled yarns on seat covers and natural-fiber plastic for interior components.

Source: Ford

2012 Mustang

2011-09-01T13:45:00.004-05:00

When you turn 100, it’s pretty much guaranteed Willard Scott will Photoshop your face onto what is seemingly the label of a jar of jam and give a birthday shout-out. But when it’s 100 years of naval aviation we’re talking about? Jam is a no-go. But an extraordinary car created for the occasion? That’ll do.

To pay tribute to the centennial, engineering and design teams at Ford crafted this unique 2012 Ford Mustang, inspired by the U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels naval aviation demonstration team and the F-18 Hornet aircraft it flies. The GT’s exterior features a custom spoiler with vertical tailfins, Screaming Yellow gloss accents and Blue Angels script and crest from the Navy aircraft. Creations n’ Chrome did the chrome blue paint, and we’re sorry to say you can only drool over it for now – it’s unlike anything available on any production vehicle in the world.

Inside, the Mustang has the Blue Angels crest stitched into the leather Recaro racing seats and offset stripes that give a hint of pilot flight suits. There are cluster graphics, performance gauges and instrument panel appliqués, too. Other notables are the Blue Angels script on the illuminated sill plates and puddle lamps that project jet images when the doors open.

The Mustang also has a Ford Racing supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine that makes a whopping 624 horsepower, plus a Ford Racing handling pack, performance exhaust and racetrack brakes.

You like? Good news then: On July 28, the Blue Angels Mustang will be sold at the Gathering of Eagles charity auction during the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) AirVenture Oshkosh, an event that will take place July 25-31 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Ford is the exclusive automotive partner and longtime supporter of EAA. You will need to prequalify to participate in the auction, so click here for more information.

All proceeds from the car donation and sale will benefit the EAA Young Eagles organization, which has provided free introductory flights to more than 1.6 million young people since 1992 while also teaching the value of hard work, personal responsibility and enhanced math and science skills. The Gathering of Eagles annually draws more than 1,000 aviation enthusiasts in support of Young Eagles and other EAA programs that inspire young people to become engineers, aviators, astronauts, scientists and innovators.

The Blue Angels edition joins three other one-of-a-kind Mustangs created by the Ford design and engineering teams for the EAA Young Eagles auction in recent years. Ford vehicles sold at auction during past EAA AirVenture events have collectively raised more than $1.3 million to support Young Eagles.

Source: Ford

2012 Boss 302 Laguna Seca

2011-09-01T13:43:00.001-05:00

Click Here to watch the video.

Source: Youtube

Ford Evos Concept

2011-09-01T13:36:00.004-05:00

You’ve heard us use the term “global design” before on TheFordStory.com; it basically refers to the foundation of new Ford products that can be used worldwide. To simplify that even further, it’s like automotive DNA. And, it’s also part of the One Ford product plan.

Click Here to watch a video.

The Ford Evos Concept, which will officially debut at the 64th Frankfurt International Motor Show, held September 15-25, 2011, might give you the biggest hint of all regarding the DNA of the next generation of Ford cars and crossovers.

“The Ford Evos Concept is a strong statement of intent from the global design team, and highlights the compelling vision we have for our future products. We believe that the new generation of buyers around the world has higher expectations for a more premium design language in all products,” explained J Mays, Group Vice President, Design and Chief Creative Officer.

Click Here for a Ford Evos Concept - technology demonstration

Take special note of the interior and exterior of the four-seater. There’s a fastback roof profile, which screams aerodynamic efficiency. There’s a sporty appearance. Its architecture is muscular. And about the face: The familiar Ford inverted trapezoid grille has been moved upward, which you might have already noticed on the new Focus Electric and Focus ST.

But it’s not only the design that’s important here. “The Ford Evos Concept unites three key elements which are at the core of our One Ford global product strategy: outstanding design, smart technologies and fuel economy leadership,” said Derrick Kuzak, Group Vice President of Global Product Development.

Driver interaction and awareness are key features. You’ve heard references to “the cloud”? It’s alive and well here. The technology on the Ford Evos Concept reflects a new generation of driver interaction and awareness currently under development in the Ford Research and Innovation laboratories. Seamless connectivity between the vehicle and the driver’s “personal cloud” of information is at the heart of its capabilities. Ford researchers are focusing efforts on delivering four key customer benefits: personalization, enhancement of the driving experience, looking after the driver’s well-being and smart electrified powertrain optimization.

Using information from the cloud, the vehicle can provide the same connected lifestyle the driver experiences at home or office. The car knows the driver and automatically adapts handling, steering and engine controls to deliver a dynamic driving experience. For example, imagine if it could automatically play the same music or news program that was just streaming at home, or heat or cool the interior to an ideal temperature before you got in, without input from you, since it would predict your departure time based on your calendar. Wirelessly communicating with devices in the home, it could close the garage door and switch off the lights automatically as it pulls away.

Learning driver habits and capabilities, the technology can overlay map and weather data sourced from the cloud to adjust powertrain, steering, suspension and braking systems for comfort and safety.

And Ford researchers have already developed technologies focused on driver wellness, such as the heart-rate monitoring seat and certified allergy-free interiors. With a seamless connection to the cloud, the Ford Evos Concept monitors the physical state and workload of the driver and adjusts the driving experience accordingly. The concept is also equipped with advanced air quality sensors and filtration systems to help allergy sufferers. Location-aware, it can access air-quality data from the cloud and proactively suggest a healthier route to the destination.

In dynamic driving situations, the vehicle may simplify the appearance of the instrument panel to display only necessary gauge information and switch the driver’s connected smartphone to Do Not Disturb mode to help keep the focus on the road.

What about performance? The Ford Evos Concept is a state-of-the-art lithium-ion plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain, providing the same next-generation performance and fuel economy as the Ford C-MAX Energi scheduled for introduction in North America in 2012 and Europe in 2013. Cloud connectivity would provide further opportunities to enhance performance and efficiency by selecting the optimum combination of powertrain modes for any given journey. Ford researchers are working to increase understanding of driver behavior, develop accurate protocols to predict it and enhance the trip by providing the smartest use of fuel or battery for the situation. The cloud-optimized powertrain would automatically “know” when to save energy and switch modes, using information about the vehicle’s predicted travel route, any emission zone restrictions during the journey and current weather conditions.

“We wanted the Ford Evos Concept to give a clear message about where Ford design is heading – shaping vehicles that are fun to drive, have a premium appeal but, above all, are stunningly beautiful,” said J. “The first fruit of this vision will be ready sooner than you might think – you’ll see it in around four months rather than four years. We can’t wait to introduce the first production car to include this new Ford design to our global customers.”

Source: Ford/Youtube

The World's Ugliest Car...,

2011-08-25T10:48:00.000-05:00

The World's Ugliest Car ???

Source: Streetfire.net

2012 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 Offers the Ultimate in Performance, Style with New Features, Class-Leading Power

2011-08-23T07:14:00.001-05:00

The 2012 Ford Harley-Davidson™ F-150 delivers on the custom cool design that the lineup has been known for, with new snakeskin leather interior accents, a new stylized bodyside graphic and a new wheel and premium paint color. Combine that with a standard 6.2-liter V8 engine and plenty of technology, and it delivers power, capability and style like no other.

•2012 Ford Harley-Davidson™ F-150 offers distinctive new design enhancements with snakeskin leather interior accents and unique bodyside graphic. Also new for 2012 are 22-inch machined-aluminum wheels with painted accents and unique center cap as well as a premium exterior color choice – White Platinum Tri-Coat

•Standard content includes the voice-activated Navigation System, a 4.2-inch productivity screen, power moonroof and Remote Start System

•The truck is powered by a 6.2-liter V8 gasoline engine, which uses big-bore architecture to deliver a best-in-class 411 horsepower and 434 lb.-ft. of torque and provides maximum trailer towing capability of 7,500 pounds
Download Technical Specs

STURGIS, S.D., Aug. 9, 2011– The 2012 Ford Harley-Davidson™ F-150 delivers on the custom cool design the lineup is known for, with new snakeskin leather interior accents and a stylized bodyside graphic. Also new are the wheel design and a premium paint color. Combine that with a standard 6.2-liter V8 engine and plenty of technology, and it delivers power, capability and style like no other.

“This is a great pairing of two icons of the open road: Ford and Harley-Davidson. Both brands appeal to truck owners and motorcycle enthusiasts alike,” said Marc Lapine, Ford F-150 marketing manager. “For 2012 we worked with Harley-Davidson to continue to push the styling envelope while still delivering the durability and power that F-150 is known for and that our collective customers expect. It perfectly captures both brands.”

The successful collaboration between Ford and Harley-Davidson has produced 10 F-150 models, as well as six Super Duty F-250 and F-350 models, and in 2009 the first Harley-Davidson F-450 edition truck. Ford has sold more than 70,000 Ford Harley-Davidson F-Series trucks since the brands teamed up in 1999.

Design in the details

The exterior of the 2012 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 offers a bold front fascia and six-bar billet-style bright chrome grille, and it boasts “Harley-Davidson” bright chrome badging. The truck also has a lowered appearance with a standard, fully integrated deployable running board.

Also standard are new 22-inch machined-aluminum wheels with painted accents and Harley-Davidson bar and shield logo on center cap. The paint selection is classic Harley-Davidson – Tuxedo Black and White Platinum Tri-Coat; this is the first year white has been offered.

New graphics on the bodyside of the truck are executed in a unique snakeskin texture, while “Harley-Davidson” dimensional lettering is featured on the box side. The snakeskin is inspired by tank inserts on premium-level Harley-Davidson motorcycles and also comes into play on the interior.

“This is the first time we’ve captured the full spectrum of light to dark on the exterior,” said Mike Massara, F-150 program manager. “The graphic flows and accents the design curve of the truck, yet brings the texture of the snakeskin into the vehicle, which is something that’s very difficult to do.”

Interior trim panels are covered in high-gloss Tuxedo Black paint, while the console lid and upper steering wheel carry the snakeskin leather. The scuff plate features brushed aluminum with snakeskin texture. All interior chrome surfaces feature a satin finish. Premium snakeskin leather-trimmed seats come with accent color inserts and unique cloisonné badge.

The 2012 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 interior is customized to appeal to the truck buyer who appreciates the attention to detail for which both Ford and Harley-Davidson are renowned.

Examples are the seats and the console lid featuring handmade cloisonné badges that are produced by the same company that makes badges for Harley-Davidson motorcycles; the console has limited-edition serialization plates, which include laser-engraved VIN and build numbers.

Nearly every member of the Harley-Davidson F-150 team at Ford is a Harley-Davidson owner.

Superior convenience

The 2012 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 offers plenty of technology options to meet customer needs. Key to helping customers take advantage of all the capability offered by the Harley-Davidson F-150 is a standard 4.2-inch LCD (liquid crystal display) productivity screen.

This screen offers a range of menu options, giving the customer important information on everything from fuel economy to towing performance. The menu is navigated through a five-way button on the steering wheel; the screen is positioned between the tachometer and speedometer.

Additionally, the 2012 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 comes equipped with a standard voice-activated Navigation System that integrates several functions, including voice-recognition destination entry, climate control and SiriusXM Satellite Radio into one easy-to-use system, displaying them on an 8-inch touch screen.

For the customer who wants more control of transmission gear selection, SelectShift Automatic™ transmission functionality is standard. A toggle switch located on the console shift lever engages the mode, where the transmission doesn’t second-guess the driver, giving total control over gear selection and performance feel.

Other standard features on the 2012 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 include:

•Power moonroof
•Rear view camera
•Second-row heated seats
•Ambient lighting
•Remote Start System
•110-volt power inverter
•Power-adjustable performance pedals
Potent power

Ford tapped into a bit of its proud racing heritage to create the 6.2-liter V8 gasoline engine, which uses big-bore architecture to produce impressive horsepower and torque. The gasoline engine delivers a best-in-class 411 horsepower and 434 lb.-ft. of torque and provides maximum trailer towing capability of 7,500 pounds.

Customer benefits of the 6.2-liter V8 gasoline engine include:

•SOHC valvetrain with roller-rocker shafts: The single overhead camshaft (SOHC) per cylinder head design results in a stiff valvetrain that allows optimized camshaft lift profiles and results in great low-speed torque. The roller-rocker shafts allow valve angles to be splayed, resulting in optimized intake and exhaust port layout for better breathing

•Dual-equal variable cam timing: Intake and exhaust valve opening and closing events are phased at the same time to optimize fuel efficiency and performance throughout the engine speed range and throttle positions

•Two spark plugs per cylinder: Due to the large bore size, two spark plugs per cylinder are used to more efficiently burn the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber, enabling better fuel economy and increased engine torque. The twin plugs also help the engine maintain a smooth, stable idle

•Dual knock sensors: A knock sensor on each bank of cylinders of the V8 engine allows the spark timing of each cylinder to be individually optimized real-time, throughout the engine speed range. The engine learns the optimum timing via an adaptive algorithm

F-Series firsts

Harley-Davidson F-Series trucks have continuously been pushing the envelope of innovation, bringing a variety of features to F-Series for the first time, including:

•20-inch wheels
•22-inch wheels
•Wet-on-wet paint
•Superchargers
•Badges as interior ornamentation
•All-wheel drive
•Power deployable running boards
•High-gloss painted interior

Source: Ford

Ford's New Small-Vehicle Platform Is Turning Heads

2011-08-23T07:11:00.001-05:00

Start with the ingredients needed to build an exceptional new small car: smart design, high-quality underbody and powertrain, and streamlined production.

The result is the revolutionary 2012 Focus. Now transform the recipe. Take that smallcar platform and design a sleek, versatile and compact SUV; then create a clever multi activity vehicle that has anticipated a family’s needs. Keep innovating. That is how Ford uses a forward-thinking formula to build 10 unique world-class small vehicles from a single platform. Meet the dynamic C-segment lineup.

How does the C-segment platform make Ford an even better car company? Building many cars off one platform provides Ford with economies of scale that, in turn, allow the company to offer vehicles with some of the most sophisticated features in the world at affordable prices. Any one of the Ford C-platform models could redefine the world’s expectations of a small car, delivering an unprecedented level of technology, features, craftsmanship, ride quality and quietness. “The new C-sized family from Ford will be the strongest demonstration yet of how we’re harnessing the company’s global resources to deliver real customer benefits,” says Derrick Kuzak, group vice president of Global Product Development for Ford. “The scale we’re generating makes it possible to deliver all that.”

Lest you think a single platform means limited style, take a look at the range of silhouettes. Every C-platform vehicle employs kinetic design language, which makes them look like they’re in motion even while they’re standing still. They’re unique unto themselves, yet they all reflect Ford Motor Company President and CEO Alan Mulally’s “ONE Ford” strategy, in which the fleet is similarly excellent—and distinctly recognizable—the world over. The C-platform exemplifies the commitment Ford has to giving you exceptional value in today’s changing automobile market.

That’s vital because, as Kuzak points out, “people downsize cars, not expectations. They want the amenities they’re used to in larger vehicles. They want a small car that is fully appointed with the right materials, craftsmanship and quality.” Without a doubt, they’re going to want a C-car.

FOCUS ELECTRIC
If you boil down the many benefits of an all-electric vehicle to one simple fact, it may just be this: no more trips to the fuel pump. An all-electric version of the flagship Focus is due late this year, and it should come as no surprise that the first fuel-free rechargeable passenger car from Ford has been done right. The 2012 Focus Electric will have a better miles per- gallon equivalent than the Chevrolet Volt* and will have about half the charging time of the current Nissan Leaf using 240-volt charging. “Its advanced powertrain will deliver zero emissions without compromising driving enjoyment,” Kuzak says. “And its suite of smart driver information technologies will transform the way customers think about energy usage and their transportation needs.”

Indeed, you’ll love that the Focus Electric’s connectedness goes well beyond the wall plug. It comes with a unique execution of SYNC® with MyFord Touch™ driver connect technology; electric-vehicle-specific features will allow you to keep tabs on battery charge, distance to your charging point, expected range surplus and other helpful data that make it easy to live with an electric vehicle. The driver interface allows you to change settings to optimize your range, and at the end of each trip it displays cool info such as how many miles were gained through regenerative braking, how much energy was consumed and the amount of money you saved compared with a gasoline vehicle. You can even monitor vehicle settings and charging remotely from your smartphone. And when it comes time to plug in, a Value Charging technology powered by Microsoft®** tells you when to charge to get the cheapest utility rates. Also, if some distant cousin shows up with an electric vehicle made by another company, you’ll be able to graciously let him or her charge up in your garage because of the fact that Ford had a leadership role in creating the industry standards for electric-vehicle plugs.

On the open road, the Focus Electric shares many of the dynamic driving characteristics of the zippy, gas-powered edition, including the European-engineered steering, handling and braking. The difference, of course, is the all-electric powertrain and single-speed transmission, which give you off-the-line responsiveness with the speed of switching on a light. And the engine smoothly accelerates to a projected top speed of 84 mph.

2012 FORD FOCUS ELECTRIC C-MAX
It’s time for a fresh take on the compact family vehicle. Introducing the C-MAX, an all-new, unique multiactivity vehicle that features twin sliding rear doors and flexible 5+2 seating— so everybody in your brood can easily fit comfortably for any occasion. This vehicle embodies an entirely new realm of performance, convenience and versatility. Take, for instance, the optional hands-free liftgate. So long as you have your Intelligent Access key fob in your pocket or bag, you don’t have to dig for it while balancing armloads of groceries and a wriggling dog on a leash. Just wave your foot under the rear bumper and the liftgate opens on its own. You can even set how high you want it to rise.

That is only the beginning of what the C-MAX has to offer. Another hallmark of the car’s versatility is the flexible 5+2 seating configuration, which features an ingenious mechanism that allows the middle seat in the second row to fold down and flip beneath the right-hand seat, instantly creating walk-through access to the third row. Everyone sits up high in the C-MAX—the better to enjoy the view through the optional fixed panoramic roof—and the driver enjoys a veritable command center, with optional push-button start, an elevated gearshift and easy access to the car’s plethora of other technology. Tune in to optional HD Radio®, monitor the optional rearview camera, or, with optional SYNC with MyFord Touch, call someone on your phone’s contact list, have text messages read to you, check the weather or traffic, get directions or control the cabin temperature—all using simple voice commands. That keeps your hands on the wheel and your focus on the road.

Step on the gas, and you’ll be impressed with the punch you get from the optional allaluminum 1.6-liter EcoBoost™ I-4 engine, as well as how little fuel it uses, thanks to the car's combination of direct-injection turbocharging and twin independent variable camshaft timing. The multi-link rear suspension and new torque-vectoring control allow you to take sharp corners with confidence, and the car's safety features go so far as to monitor tire pressure and notify you of any inconsistencies. And when you arrive at your destination, the optional Active Park Assist will guide the vehicle smoothly into the best-suited parallel parking space, to the cheers of everyone onboard. Even more good news: The C-MAX will also be available in a shorter, five-passenger hybrid and Energi plug-in hybrid model.

Source: Ford

All-New Ford Ranger

2011-08-23T06:57:00.001-05:00

Click here for the Youtube video.

or Click Here for another video of the Ranger.

Ford F-150 EcoBoost Sales

2011-08-23T06:38:00.001-05:00

Click Here for the MSNautos article.

Ford Fiesta Celebrates 35th Birthday

2011-08-02T17:47:00.001-05:00

•2011 marks 35 years since the 1976 launch of the Ford Fiesta – a car that has achieved iconic status in Europe and around the world

•15 millionth Fiesta produced in July, with demand for the sixth generation model showing no signs of waning

•Ford celebrates Fiesta landmarks with interior and exterior revisions and upgrades to keep the highly popular model on top of its game

COLOGNE, Germany, July 29, 2011 – The Ford Fiesta is celebrating two milestones in the summer of 2011, reaching its 35th birthday with a total of 15 million cars produced worldwide.

But despite turning 35, Fiesta is showing no signs of a mid-life crisis. In fact, it looks sharper than ever inside and out thanks to a refreshing facelift.

The Ford Fiesta reached the 15 million production landmark this month, a figure boosted by the popularity of the latest generation model. Ford has built a million of the current model since it debuted 28 months ago.

As Europe’s best-selling small car in 2009, 2010 and on track to accomplish the same feat in 2011, the Fiesta is one of Ford’s greatest success stories – appealing to several generations of drivers with its attractive styling, practicality, efficiency and performance.

“The Fiesta is a special car that has a special place in the hearts of European customers and car lovers around the world,” said Roelant de Waard, vice president, Marketing, Sales and Service, Ford of Europe. “It’s a testament to the original Fiesta from 1976 and the engineers who have developed and improved the car through more than three decades that the Fiesta remains one of the world’s most popular cars.

“Times and technologies have changed, but as long as the Fiesta continues to deliver the style, economy and performance elements that have been present from the very beginning, it will remain an enduring success.”

To keep the Fiesta’s dynamic styling and customer appeal as fresh as ever, Ford is introducing a number of exterior and interior styling changes.

Furthermore, two new exterior colours – Mars Red and Fashionista – are now available and Digital Audio Broadcasting radios, enabling drivers to tune into a larger range of stations with better sound quality where present, are introduced alongside Sony audio systems, both equipped with the signal-improving Diversity Antenna.

From the Fiesta Trend onwards the range now has carpet-backed rear seats and a map pocket on the rear of the driver’s seat. The enhanced Fiesta Trend also adds fog lamps with chrome surrounds and unique wheel trims for the exterior. Inside, new bright silver applications for the air vents and door levers create a striking contrast with a new dark grey interior package. A full leather soft-touch steering wheel, trip computer and attractive new seat trim are also being added.

The Fiesta Sport and Titanium feature the same updates, while the recently unveiled Fiesta Sport Special Edition adds exclusive features including leather seats, black alloy wheels, gloss black interior detailing and silver exterior elements.

The range topping Fiesta Titanium boasts further upgrades, including a new chrome strip for the upper front grille, exciting new 15-inch alloy wheels and a woven headliner. New partial leather seats are also available as an option.

“These upgrades ensure that the Fiesta continues to put its best foot forward in terms of style, equipment and comfort, just as it has done for the past 35 years,” said de Waard.

“With 15 million sales worldwide, the customer response to the Fiesta as a small car package speaks for itself, and we hope the carefully selected upgrades to the current Fiesta will further improve its appeal to small car drivers across the globe.”

The very first Fiesta was produced in Valencia, Spain, in 1976 as Ford’s practical and economical response to a fuel crisis that was gripping the world, and it immediately tapped into a small car demand in Europe and around the world.

Valencia continues to build the current Fiesta production with Ford’s manufacturing plant in Cologne, Germany, now producing the majority of new Fiestas. The Fiesta also is built in Nanjing, China, Rayong, Thailand, and Cuautitlàn, Mexico.

Thirty-five years, six generations and 15 million cars after its debut, the Fiesta continues to offer practicality, style and efficiency to car buyers of all ages

SourceL Ford

Ford "Talking" Vehicles

2011-08-02T17:46:00.001-05:00

Source: Youtube

2011 Ford Transit Connect: Dressed-Up For Family Duty

2011-07-27T09:14:00.002-05:00

Source: Internet

Three-Cylinder Ford Fiesta Coming To U.S.

2011-07-27T08:56:00.003-05:00

2012 Ford Fiesta customization pack

If you thought the 40 mpg highway fuel economy rating of the 2011 Ford Fiesta SFE model was impressive, just wait until the reveal of the three-cylinder version, which is reportedly destined to land in the U.S.

The car will come powered by a turbocharged 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine that should deliver horsepower and torque equal to or even better than the four-cylinder 1.6-liter unit currently found in the Fiesta, which means at least 120 horsepower on tap.

The latest information was revealed by Ford powertrain executive Greg Johnson, who spoke recently with Automotive News.

He said Ford’s EcoBoost technology was enabling the automaker to build engines that developed around 120 horsepower per liter. The three-cylinder example will enter production next spring and should appear shortly after in European versions of the Fiesta.

There’s no word on when it will appear in U.S. versions of the car but it shouldn’t be too long after. Ford also plans to install the engine in its Ka and Figo hatchbacks sold overseas but neither model is likely to be sold in the U.S. Both are smaller than the Fiesta, which means pricing would have to start lower--a segment Ford may not be ready to encroach.

In case you haven't been paying attention over the last year, EcoBoost is the name given to Ford’s engines that feature technologies designed to improve performance while simultaneously reducing fuel consumption.

The core of the EcoBoost technologies is turbocharging and direct fuel injection though in the case of Ford’s new three-cylinder engine there’s also variable-valve timing, an offset crankshaft and a host of other technologies. For full details on the tiny powerplant, click here.

Note, Ford isn’t the only automaker investigating the gains of downsizing engines in the effort to boost fuel economy. Rival automakers and independent suppliers alike are designing and building their own compact engines as well.

Source: Internet

U-Haul Won't Rent Trailers to Explorer Drivers

2011-07-04T14:41:00.002-05:00

There's a good chance that some of you honestly don't remember the Ford / Firestone debacle that went down in the mid/late 90s. Like the Audi / 60 Minutes firestorm for people of my generation, the Ford / Firestone thing is simply a bit of automotive history.

Unfortunately for anyone who owns an Explorer, this bit of history is not soon forgotten. At least, not if you plan to visit a U-Haul office anytime soon. Despite Ford no longer fitting Firestone tires to the Explorer nor the new one being even remotely similar to the contraption it was then, U-Haul blames the name and has a strict no trailer rental policy to this day as Consumer Reports found out when trying to rent a small trailer for yard mulch.

And as anyone who's been to a U-Haul knows, these aren't employees, they're policy robots like at the post office or DMV -- if the computer says no, there's nothing you can do.

Source: Internet

Spy Photos: 2013 Ford Shelby GT500...EcoBoost? KR?

2011-07-04T14:37:00.001-05:00

Let's take stock of what we have from these spy photos of a Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 prototype: Full cage, canards (GT500s do lift at speed), lower ride height, additional / revamped intercooler, larger rear brakes (current GT500 has 11.8-inch rotors), Nurburgring badge.

And now let's go for a quick walk down a more speculative road: The intercooler looks and is placed a lot like an Air:air intercooler (black car, closeup on the next page) would be, though one person thinks that the void area between the fins is too small for that. An Air:air intercooler would make sense if we were looking at a turbocharged V8 (branded EcoBoost despite absolutely no eco benefit) which would make sense as that's the direction Ford is going and affixing EcoBoost badges to a halo car works in a Reaganesque trickle-down theory of coolness.

And as high as the percentage is that the cage and racing seats present in both cars are for testing safety purposes, the Boss 302 has been incredibly popular for Ford despite it being slower than the GT500. (At least in our test it was.) There has to be some demand for a track-focused, ready-to-race Shelby with 500+ horsepower and a cage. The last KR was a disappointment, could this be the car we wanted it to be?

Did we miss anything here? What else could we be looking at? Oh, and where's that new Mach 1 we were expecting from Ford?

Source: Insideline

Spy Photos: 2013 Ford Flex Facelift

2011-07-04T14:30:00.002-05:00

When the Ford Flex first went on sale in 2009, it was a refreshing, pleasantly boxy alternative to the current crop of similarly shaped minivans. Unfortunately, like so many things that are refreshing and different, the Flex quickly faded into the background after an initial spike. Too bad, too, because it's good.

Well, Ford's doing something about that for 2013 when the Ford Flex is expected to undergo its first major upgrade. We can see from these spy shots that the 2013 Ford Flex is going to get in line and pick up the Explorer-like mesh-and-bars face treatment along with projector-beam foglights and wrap-around headlights, again, like the Explorer.

Interior and engine upgrades are still unclear.

Source: Edmonds/Insideline

The New Taurus ~ Part Rocket, Part Science

2011-07-04T14:02:00.003-05:00

First Look at the 2013 Ford Taurus and Taurus SHO
April 23rd, 2011

It’s difficult to pick the most noteworthy feature of the 2013 Ford Taurus, but let’s start with how the flagship sedan manages to make a bit of automotive history: It is the first car in the Ford North America lineup to offer the new 2.0-liter EcoBoost™ engine. Beyond that, the new Taurus also touts improved fuel economy, more smart technology, a fresh look and additional safety features. And did we mention the Taurus SHO is the sportiest model yet to wear the performance badge? But more on that one in a minute.

The 2.0-liter EcoBoost combines a turbocharger with gasoline direct injection, and is expected to deliver best-in-class highway fuel economy of at least 31 mpg, as well as an estimated 237 horsepower and 250 lb.-ft. of torque. Meanwhile, the standard 3.5-liter V6 is projected to deliver unsurpassed fuel efficiency among V6 segment competitors while still delivering increased performance, with an anticipated 290 horsepower. Both engines are mated to unique six-speed automatic transmissions that offer optimized gear selection for off-the-line power delivery in lower gears, while benefiting fuel economy with higher gears that keep the engine turning efficiently at lower revolutions while cruising.

On the technology front, class-leading offerings include SYNC® with MyFord Touch™, which replaces many traditional buttons, knobs and gauges with clear, colorful LCD screens and steering wheel-mounted five-way toggles. The Taurus is available with a wide variety of audio and navigation connectivity alternatives as well as comfort and convenience options. For example, you might dig the new heated steering wheel, a nice companion to heated and cooled leather-trimmed seats.

For driving performance, the new Taurus utilizes torque vectoring control, which uses a slight – virtually imperceptible to the driver – amount of braking force on the outside front wheel when accelerating through a corner. This minimal brake force provides an effect similar to a limited-slip differential, and the vehicle feels smaller and more maneuverable. The Taurus also adds curve control, a unique Ford braking innovation aimed at slowing the vehicle if it senses that a driver inadvertently enters a curve too quickly. The electric power-assisted steering improves response and feel as well as helps to conserve fuel.

Improving safety of the new Taurus brought enhanced airbag restraints with optimized tethering and venting to specifically tailor deployment force to occupant size, position and seat belt status.

Now, from the see-your-voice-matters department comes the new Taurus SHO. Ford absolutely listened to SHO buyers and enthusiasts to strengthen the design and driving quality of the 2013 model. Fun fact: Roughly half of 2010 SHO customers had not previously considered nor shopped Ford, and frequently it’s high-end sedans – think 3- and 5-Series BMWs and Acura TLs – that are trade-ins.

Giving the SHO a unique look is a performance-inspired grille in black mesh, flanked by series-specific high-intensity discharge headlamps. Behind the front wheel openings, a fender-mounted scallop contains a subtle SHO badge. Unique 19-inch premium painted wheels wearing standard P255/45VR-19 all-season tires fill out the openings; buyers can opt for 20-inch machined and painted wheels. SHO-specific sideview mirrors – also in contrasting black – are heated, have memory functionality and contain downward-facing puddle lamps; the driver’s side features auto-dimming. In the rear, Taurus SHO has a decklid-mounted spoiler.

Performance attributes include the award-winning and fuel-efficient 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, delivering 365 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque, mated to a six-speed high-capacity 6F55 SelectShift Automatic™ transmission, for up to 25 EPA-rated mpg on the highway.

Steering wheel–mounted paddle shifters enable the Taurus SHO to match revs for smooth, quick, manually selected downshifts. For the new model, these have been reconfigured for more intuitive operation, with one paddlhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gife for upshifts and the other for making smooth, matched-rev downshifts. As with the Taurus, the SHO models also feature torque vectoring control. And the new Performance Package includes Electrhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifonic Stability Control track mode with true off, performance brakes and track-tuned calipers and a sport-tuned suspension.

When it came to the 2013 Taurus and Taurus SHO, Ford approached the cars’ upgrades with “obsessive attention to detail,” explained Mark Fields, the Ford President of The Americas. “The new Taurus builds on the transformation we achieved in the 2010 model. Delivering so many upgrades so soon further underscores Ford’s leadership and commitment to delivering high-quality, fuel-efficient cars for our customers.”

Click Here to check out the new 2013 Taurus SHO.

Click Here to check out the 2013 Taurus.

Source: Ford

Ford reveals its all-new, purpose-built Police Interceptor Utility Vehicle

2011-07-04T13:59:00.002-05:00

Ford Motor Company, the police vehicle market leader for 15 years, has done it again. The company unveiled the all-new Police Interceptor Utility vehicle in Chicago.

To develop the all-new Police Interceptor Utility, Ford engineers worked hand-in-hand with Ford's Police Advisory Board of law enforcement professionals, which provided input on key vehicle attributes such as safety, performance, durability, driver comfort and functionality.

“Their feedback mattered to us,” said Scott Tobin, Ford vehicle line director for cars and crossovers. “Safety and durability were at the top of their list. So safety and durability were at the top of ours.”

Since law enforcement officials have specific needs, Ford's engineers designed several features to address the special requirements of the job. Including:

Ballistic Door Panels: These are certified by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) to stop all Type III and all lesser NIJ rounds.

75 MPH Crash Test Rated: Ford Police Interceptors are purpose-built to pass 75-mph rear-end crash testing. (Ford is the only manufacturer to publish results.)

Personal Safety System: Designed to protect, the Personal Safety System™ is a holistic, networked safety approach. The always-on-alert Safety Canopy® System includes a rollover sensor, along with roll-fold, side-curtain airbags. Meanwhile, the Interceptors are structurally tough. A reinforced, heavy-duty unibody architecture creates multiple crush zones.

Interior Comfort: The driver seat is six-way power adjustable with lumbar support. Plus, both front seats feature sculpted foam at the bottom of the seat back to accommodate an officer's utility belt. And inserted into the seatback, are anti-stab plates, designed to protect front-seat occupants.

The Police Interceptor utility crossover complements the Taurus-based sedan in Ford's police lineup. The utility vehicle will come in front- and all-wheel-drive models, and will be powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 making at least 280 hp working with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The utility vehicle and sedan are part of Ford's dual approach to replacing the aging Crown Victoria, which remains the most popular car for police around the country. Ford is breaking away from that car's tried-and-true mold of V8 power channeled to the rear wheels, though the company is quick to say the all-wheel setup will be just as effective for officers.

"This is a very diverse industry with multifaceted requirements," said Jim Holland, chief engineer of the police utility vehicle. The utility vehicle is also said to get 20 percent better fuel economy than the current Crown Vic.

Both vehicles were tested by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department and the Michigan State Police.

Ford's new Police Interceptor utility will be manufactured at Ford's Chicago (Ill.) Assembly Plant and will be offered without interruption when production of the Crown Victoria Police Interceptor ends in late 2011.

Source: Ford

First Look at the 2013 Ford Taurus and Taurus SHO

2011-06-22T13:16:00.002-05:00

It’s difficult to pick the most noteworthy feature of the 2013 Ford Taurus, but let’s start with how the flagship sedan manages to make a bit of automotive history: It is the first car in the Ford North America lineup to offer the new 2.0-liter EcoBoost™ engine. Beyond that, the new Taurus also touts improved fuel economy, more smart technology, a fresh look and additional safety features. And did we mention the Taurus SHO is the sportiest model yet to wear the performance badge? But more on that one in a minute.

The 2.0-liter EcoBoost combines a turbocharger with gasoline direct injection, and is expected to deliver best-in-class highway fuel economy of at least 31 mpg, as well as an estimated 237 horsepower and 250 lb.-ft. of torque. Meanwhile, the standard 3.5-liter V6 is projected to deliver unsurpassed fuel efficiency among V6 segment competitors while still delivering increased performance, with an anticipated 290 horsepower. Both engines are mated to unique six-speed automatic transmissions that offer optimized gear selection for off-the-line power delivery in lower gears, while benefiting fuel economy with higher gears that keep the engine turning efficiently at lower revolutions while cruising.

On the technology front, class-leading offerings include SYNC® with MyFord Touch™, which replaces many traditional buttons, knobs and gauges with clear, colorful LCD screens and steering wheel-mounted five-way toggles. The Taurus is available with a wide variety of audio and navigation connectivity alternatives as well as comfort and convenience options. For example, you might dig the new heated steering wheel, a nice companion to heated and cooled leather-trimmed seats.

For driving performance, the new Taurus utilizes torque vectoring control, which uses a slight – virtually imperceptible to the driver – amount of braking force on the outside front wheel when accelerating through a corner. This minimal brake force provides an effect similar to a limited-slip differential, and the vehicle feels smaller and more maneuverable. The Taurus also adds curve control, a unique Ford braking innovation aimed at slowing the vehicle if it senses that a driver inadvertently enters a curve too quickly. The electric power-assisted steering improves response and feel as well as helps to conserve fuel.

Improving safety of the new Taurus brought enhanced airbag restraints with optimized tethering and venting to specifically tailor deployment force to occupant size, position and seat belt status.

Now, from the see-your-voice-matters department comes the new Taurus SHO. Ford absolutely listened to SHO buyers and enthusiasts to strengthen the design and driving quality of the 2013 model. Fun fact: Roughly half of 2010 SHO customers had not previously considered nor shopped Ford, and frequently it’s high-end sedans – think 3- and 5-Series BMWs and Acura TLs – that are trade-ins.

Giving the SHO a unique look is a performance-inspired grille in black mesh, flanked by series-specific high-intensity discharge headlamps. Behind the front wheel openings, a fender-mounted scallop contains a subtle SHO badge. Unique 19-inch premium painted wheels wearing standard P255/45VR-19 all-season tires fill out the openings; buyers can opt for 20-inch machined and painted wheels. SHO-specific sideview mirrors – also in contrasting black – are heated, have memory functionality and contain downward-facing puddle lamps; the driver’s side features auto-dimming. In the rear, Taurus SHO has a decklid-mounted spoiler.

Performance attributes include the award-winning and fuel-efficient 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, delivering 365 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque, mated to a six-speed high-capacity 6F55 SelectShift Automatic™ transmission, for up to 25 EPA-rated mpg on the highway.

Steering wheel–mounted paddle shifters enable the Taurus SHO to match revs for smooth, quick, manually selected downshifts. For the new model, these have been reconfigured for more intuitive operation, with one paddle for upshifts and the other for making smooth, matched-rev downshifts. As with the Taurus, the SHO models also feature torque vectoring control. And the new Performance Package includes Electronic Stability Control track mode with true off, performance brakes and track-tuned calipers and a sport-tuned suspension.

When it came to the 2013 Taurus and Taurus SHO, Ford approached the cars’ upgrades with “obsessive attention to detail,” explained Mark Fields, the Ford President of The Americas. “The new Taurus builds on the transformation we achieved in the 2010 model. Delivering so many upgrades so soon further underscores Ford’s leadership and commitment to delivering high-quality, fuel-efficient cars for our customers.”

Cars Made Of Strange Stuff

2011-06-03T10:24:00.003-05:00

Ford's hemp prototype

Henry Ford might have had something strange in his pipe when he came up with the idea for this 1941 prototype, which was made of resin-stiffened hemp fiber (what's hemp?). He was so confident of the car's strength; he put it through a remarkable test.

Fuel of the Future

When Henry Ford told a New York Times reporter that ethyl alcohol was "the fuel of the future" in 1925, he was expressing an opinion that was widely shared in the automotive industry. "The fuel of the future is going to come from fruit like that sumach out by the road, or from apples, weeds, sawdust -- almost anything," he said. "There is fuel in every bit of vegetable matter that can be fermented. There's enough alcohol in one year's yield of an acre of potatoes to drive the machinery necessary to cultivate the fields for a hundred years."

Ford recognized the utility of the hemp plant. He constructed a car of resin stiffened hemp fiber, and even ran the car on ethanol made from hemp. Ford knew that hemp could produce vast economic resources if widely cultivated.

Ford's optimistic appraisal of cellulose and crop based ethyl alcohol fuel can be read in several ways. First, it can be seen as an oblique jab at a competitor. General Motors had come to considerable grief that summer of 1925 over another octane boosting fuel called tetra-ethyl lead, and government officials had been quietly in touch with Ford engineers about alternatives to leaded gasoline additives. Secondly, by 1925 the American farms that Ford loved were facing an economic crisis that would later intensify with the depression. Although the causes of the crisis were complex, one possible solution was seen in creating new markets for farm products. With Ford's financial and political backing, the idea of opening up industrial markets for farmers would be translated into a broad movement for scientific research in agriculture that would be labelled "Farm Chemurgy." 2

Why Henry's plans were delayed for more than a half century:

Ethanol has been known as a fuel for many decades. Indeed, when Henry Ford designed the Model T, it was his expectation that ethanol, made from renewable biological materials, would be a major automobile fuel. However, gasoline emerged as the dominant transportation fuel in the early twentieth century because of the ease of operation of gasoline engines with the materials then available for engine construction, a growing supply of cheaper petroleum from oil field discoveries, and intense lobbying by petroleum companies for the federal government to maintain steep alcohol taxes. Many bills proposing a National energy program that made use of Americas vast agricultural resources (for fuel production) were killed by smear campaigns launched by vested petroleum interests. One noteworthy claim put forth by petrol companies was that the U.S. government's plans "robbed taxpayers to make farmers rich".

Gasoline had many disadvantages as an automotive resource. The "new" fuel had a lower octane rating than ethanol, was much more toxic (particularly when blended with tetra-ethyl lead and other compounds to enhance octane), generally more dangerous, and contained threatening air pollutants. Petroleum was more likely to explode and burn accidentally, gum would form on storage surfaces and carbon deposits would form in combustion chambers of engines. Pipelines were needed for distribution from "area found" to "area needed". Petroleum was much more physically and chemically diverse than ethanol, necessitating complex refining procedures to ensure the manufacture of a consistent "gasoline" product.

However, despite these environmental flaws, fuels made from petroleum have dominated automobile transportation for the past three-quarters of a century. There are two key reasons: First, cost per kilometer of travel has been virtually the sole selection criteria. Second, the large investments made by the oil and auto industries in physical capital, human skills and technology make the entry of a new cost-competitive industry difficult.

Until very recently, environmental concerns have been largely ignored. All of that is finally changing as consumers demand fuels such as ethanol, which are much better for the environment and human health.

Henry Ford takes a whack at the automobile which he
"grew from the soil." This 1930s marvel withstood the
impact of a sledgehammer and in retrospect was the
first 'green' car made in America, manufactured using
resonated plant fiber and powered with hemp biofuels.
Other attributes of the vehicle, as reported by the article
in Popular Mechanics, included a steel tubular frame
which was 2/3 lighter than a steel counterpart and the
use of soybeans and other organic matter throughout.

Ford's home-grown creation was first featured in the
February 1941 edition of Popular Mechanics and was
expected to best any automobile being manufactured
at that time. The only thing that could stop Ford from
succeeding, did; Prohibition on the very hemp he used.

Ford's dream came to an end resulting from legislation
when Congress enacted The Marihuana Tax Act of 1937.
Though it was intended to control and tax marijuana,
the legislation made it impossible for citizens to follow
and hemp and marijuana have been illegal ever since.

Source: Internet

2012 Ford Focus

2011-04-01T14:38:00.002-05:00

The Basics

In a sea of sensibly-sized and relatively fuel-efficient—yet all rather humdrum—small cars, the 2012 Ford Focus has just a little more personality.

Key Takeaway

With the 2012 Focus, Ford shows that small cars don't have to feel so banal, with charismatic compacts that are more satisfying to drive, more luxurious, and better-equipped.

That's what Ford would like us to think with its new Focus, yet here it's true. The new Focus not only looks more flamboyant and sophisticated inside and out; it's also a more engaging drive than most other on-a-budget small sedans, and it offers some features that haven't up until now been offered in this class.

There's no longer a Focus Coupe, but there are two beautiful body styles—a four-door sedan or five-door hatchback—from which to choose. Both models have some nice creases and curves; and thankfully, Ford's saccharine chrome louvered grille, from several of its larger vehicles, hasn't been carried over here. Inside, the design is pleasingly complex—incorporating a cockpit-like instrument panel arrangement, with a thick center stack, some nice surface sculpting, and vertically-oriented vents.

An all-new 2.0-liter direct-injected four-cylinder engine powers the entire Focus lineup for 2012. It makes 160 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque and comes paired with either a five-speed manual gearbox or six-speed PowerShift dual-clutch automatic. You have to rev the engine to access its perky side, but the dual-clutch gearbox does a great job keeping the revs high and uninterrupted when you need it; there's also a Sport mode, or you can control shifts yourself with a little +/- button on the side of the shift knob instead of paddle-shifters or a separate gate. While the powertrain requires a little diligence, the ride-and-handling compromises are about the best it gets. The Focus handles as well as—or better than—the most deft handler in the class, the Mazda3, with a suspension that doesn't crash and bang over rough transitions. Ford's electric power steering system provides nice weighting and it performs well, providing precise control but not transmitting much feel of the road.

The Focus's inherent sportiness extends to its interior, which feels, in top Titanium trim (with upgraded sport seats), more like that of a smart European sport-sedan cabin than a low-priced small car. The base seats in the 2012 Ford Focus are quite good, with better support than those of most other affordable small cars. And whether you choose the sedan or hatchback, you get back seat accommodations that are virtually the same, with just enough legroom and headroom to fit even those over six feet. With the leather upholstery, there's no skimping on look and feel in back; you won't get mid-size comfort, but there's enough comfort back there for most six-footers.

Ford is giving shoppers a choice as to whether they want a basic small car or a much more sophisticated one with all the features and options of a larger one. Prices on the Focus range from $16,995, including destination, for the base 2011 Ford Focus S, up to about $27k for a loaded Titanium. At the top of the line, the Titanium earns you MyFord Touch, an upgraded ten-speaker Sony sound system, HD Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio, sport seats, a sport suspension, and sport wheels with summer performance tires. A number of the Titanium's features—including the Sport package—are optional on the SEL.

One other segment-exclusive feature that will be available in the Titanium is Active Park Assist—that's the system Ford has offered on several more expensive models that essentially allows the car to steer itself into a spot while you modulate the brake. In a city-savvy small car like the Focus—rather than one that's more likely to be valet-parked—it finally makes sense.

Source: Internet

2012 Ford Focus

2011-03-28T13:13:00.003-05:00

Supply Limited For Black, Red Vehicles

2011-03-28T13:09:00.003-05:00

If you're looking for one of several Ford or Lincoln vehicles in black or red, you'd better be ready to settle with what's out at the dealership—and potentially even paying a little extra. Ford has just told its dealerships to halt orders of some models with certain hues of semi-metallic red or black paint, because of a supply interruption due to the recent earthquake in Japan.

Tuxedo Black is temporarily not offered for order on a number of Ford trucks and SUVs, as well as the Ford Taurus and Lincoln MKX. There's also a problem with red for Ford F-Series Super Duty and Ranger pickups, Econoline vans, and the Ford Focus and Lincoln Navigator.

According to CNN Money, both hues rely on an ingredient called Xirallic to get a slightly metallic look, and the recent natural disaster in Japan caused a supply disruption from the company that was providing it.

Don't look for the shortage to last that long; Ford is looking for another ingredient to take its place.

Source: Internet

Amazing 2011 Fiesta Crash and Testimonial

2011-03-28T12:39:00.003-05:00

Poor Squeezie - Amazing 2011 Fiesta Crash and Testimonial

This was such a compliment to us and to Ford Motor Company that I had to share. Angela Williams, a customer who bought our very first lime squeeze 2011 Fiesta, got hit in a head-on collision by a drunk driver during broad daylight a few days ago. You can find a video of the aftermath of the crash on at YouTube.

The crash was bad, but as you'll see from the photos, those class-exclusive driver knee airbags allowed Mrs. Williams to walk away from the crash. Here is what she had to say:

"Please tell Randall Ford that I definitely want another Fiesta. If she could help us locate another I would be forever grateful. This car, from what the police said, at the very least saved my legs. I want to write a testimonial and send to Ford, but not sure who to send it to. I want to let them know how much I appreciate the engineering and safety features that helped save my life."

We are locating her another Fiesta as we speak. Nothing says customer loyalty like a life that has been spared! Thanks to the engineers at Ford who make safety standard.

Source: RandallFord/Youtube

1495 HP Stang

2011-03-16T14:34:00.001-05:00

Stang 1495HP

Source: Streetfire

Ford Gained Market Share Across Much Of Model Line

2011-03-03T10:12:00.001-06:00

Between 2008 and 2010, the U.S. auto industry—and the auto market as a whole—went through a sea change. In addition to bankruptcies from GM and Chrysler, discontinued brands, and retired model lines, the economy forced many brands to make hasty changes to their model lines.

And somehow, Ford managed to continue the upswing that it had started heading into the period—with some impressive gains in sales and market share.

R.L. Polk & Co. has helped put this into perspective: In a post, analyst Tom Libby explains that Ford's overall gain in market share from calendar-year 2008 to CY 2010 is more than the entire market share of Subaru, Mazda, or Volkswagen.

Over those two years, Ford has gained a very impressive 2.5 percent of market share, up to about 14.8 percent for 2010.

What's even more impressive is that the market share hasn't been earned through just a few halo vehicles. During those two years, eight of the seventeen Ford models have gained market share.

The Ford Fusion, F-Series, and Escape each gained a half a percent or more from 2008 to 2010. while only the Explorer, Crown Victoria, and Expedition (along with the discontinued Taurus X) lost market share—and even in all of those cases it was a tenth of a percent or less.

Those are great signs for the brand and the company, as its success hasn't been rooted in a particular vehicle line, or type of vehicle—although it does remain somewhat dependent on the F-150 as a profit center. The brand also otherwise looks well-positioned for rising gas prices—a heightened concern over the past several weeks given recent political upheaval throughout the Middle East and North Africa.

According to Autodata—and cited by MSN Money—Ford is one of just two, out of all the U.S. and Asian automakers, to reduce its average incentives last month—while its sales grew 13 percent.

Ford is expected to finish February with about 16 percent of the market, ranking it after General Motors but ahead of Toyota.

Source: Polk

Thieves Steal Gas By Drilling Into Tanks

2011-03-03T10:06:00.001-06:00

Gas prices are rising, and we're all already feeling it at the pump. Political instability abroad and economic instability at home seem to be conspiring to suck our wallets dry as fast as our gas tanks. But now some enterprising thieves are hurrying the process along, drilling into the tanks of parked cars to steal their refined payload.

The area around Fort Mill, SC, just southwest of Charlotte, North Carolina, is apparently feeling the pinch at the pump more acutely than elsewhere. Five incidents of drill-wielding gas theft have come out of South Carolina's York County, according to the local Sheriff's Office.

Drills in hand, the thieves pounce at night, stealing the gas, leaving the tanks in need of repair. Some of the owners of the cars vandalized thus far hadn't realized the full scope of the matter until the car was at the repair shop--likely after discovery by the mechanic.

The thefts have so far been localized to five streets in the Baxter Village and Bailiwyck areas of Fort Mill. If you're in those areas, you might want to boost security on your car in a visible manner to deter the thieves and avoid a costly repair--and another fill-up.

Source: Internet

2011 Ford B-Max Concept

2011-03-03T10:01:00.001-06:00

Fiesta-based, powered by a punchy three-cylinder turbo 1.0-liter engine, and seating five (assuming they're family or very good friends) the Ford B-Max Concept is the new new thing in tiny MPVs.

It's also an exercise in design, with its magical disappearing B-pillar built into the doors. As you can tell from the photos, the B-Max is ready for prime time. We still don't know if it would come to the U.S. should it get the green light, but given Ford's seriousness with its global strategy of late, we wouldn't be surprised if it did.

Source: Internet

2012 Mustang Boss 302

2011-03-03T08:41:00.003-06:00

Click Here to read the article at The Car Connection as well as seeing some great pictures.

Source: Internet

2012 Ford Focus To Get 40-MPG EPA Rating

2011-03-03T08:35:00.001-06:00

2012 Ford Focus

40 miles per gallon seems to be the new magic number in the automotive industry and Ford could be considered heavy weight in the category. With the official 40-mpg rating of the 2012 Ford Focus by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Ford now has four vehicles with a 40-mpg or greater rating. As you might guess that is the most of any manufacturer currently. What is even more interesting is the research that backs up Ford’s strategy for superior fuel economy, their method and we quite like the technology as well.

Friday, Ford released a press release that educated the media on the fuel efficient model range and research that shows consumers leaning towards fuel efficiency. According to Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development, ““Our customers tell us that fuel economy is the top reason for purchasing a Focus. The all-new Focus meets that demand with great fuel economy, class-leading technologies and features, exceptional standards of craftsmanship and driving dynamics typically reserved for larger, more expensive vehicles.” What makes this achievement more significant is how Ford has chosen to execute their offering of mpg to the customer.

What sets the Ford Focus apart from some of the competition? Besides the 14 class leading features, ones that will have some 50 commercials to promote them to the public, the Focus also employs a six-speed automatic transmission that is used in the Super Fuel Economy (SFE) model. Think of the SFE model as similar to the Hyundai Elantra Blue and if you were going to place bets, then we would put our money on other companies following suite. In other words we believe we will start to see designated high efficiency models. One of the more interesting and unique features of the 2012 Ford Focus is the Active Grille Shutter System.

The system features a motorized shutter system that has horizontal vanes. These vanes can rotate some 90 degrees to block airflow and are controlled by the cars ECU. The shutter system can rotate the horizontal vanes in 15 different directions to control the amount of airflow into the radiator. When the vanes are completely close the system reduces the drag on the vehicle and therefore the CO2 emissions. How much? Two percent. The system also helps keep the driver more comfortable by keeping the vanes closed during cold start to allow the engine to warm up quicker.

Ford says, “Great looks, smart technology and true performance.” What will you say? If you are in the market for a new small car you owe yourself a close look at the 2012 Ford Focus so you can try it on for size—and technology.

Source: Internet

2012 Ford Focus Video: MyFord Touch And (A Few Of) Its 10,000 Words

2011-03-03T08:28:00.001-06:00

2012 Ford Focus Sedan and Hatchback

The Ford Sync system is now installed in about 70 percent of U.S. Ford models, in a total of 2.5 million vehicles. With voice-command-based, hands-free access to cellphones and media players, via Bluetooth and USB, Sync arguably helps keep your eyes on the road by replacing button-pushing with words.

The next step up from Sync is MyFord Touch, featured in the 2011 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX, and now offered in the 2012 Ford Focus that's just reaching dealerships this month.

In case you missed our coverage of MyFord Touch in the Edge and MKX, the system introduces the combination of a beautiful, tablet-like touch screen, five-way toggle buttons on the steering wheel, and additional, smaller gauge-cluster displays. It's generally been well-received, and in our first few drives with the system, we can see that there's a bit of a learning curve but we find the system more intuitive than most.

That said, not all testers have come away very impressed with MyFord Touch. Consumer Reports bashed the system for its confusing controls, cluttered touch-screen layout, and sometimes sluggish screen response, saying that while the system worked well for complex commands it was clumsy for everyday controls.

One thing that few could fault (because it's simply the best in the business at this time) is the much-expanded voice-command set introduced with MyFord Touch; it gets a new voice-recognition (VR) engine and a new command structure that opens up the system to recognizing about 10,000 voice commands, according to Ford. That's about ten times the number of commands that earlier versions of Sync could respond to.

Nearly every feature in the vehicle that doesn't directly pertain to driving can now be controlled through voice commands; that includes climate control, the sound system, hands-free calling functions, and trip computer and navigation functions.

Destination street address completely skips the clunky keypad destination entry process that you have to deal with in many high-end luxury cars—it's one of the best examples of the expanded abilities—and instead allows you to simply address the entire street address, including the street number, street name, and city, with one voice input. MyFord Touch then has you verify the input and set the destination.

Ford Sync systems engineer Dominic Colella recently took us on a tour of Sync's expanded voice commands in a MyFord Touch–equipped 2012 Focus and his examples point out that you don't, as in some systems, reach a wall where you're not sure which command to give next—we appreciate how the interface will, if in doubt, give a series of numbered options in most cases.

The system has quite awesome speech-recognition ability and can even tune to Sirius channels by the station name, or by a specific FM frequency, as opposed to simply numbered presets as in most other voice command systems. The interface will also boast similar levels of interactivity with upcoming apps for Pandora and Stitcher.

"Basically any piece of information that your song is known by, you can request to play over VR," Colella said.

Watch the video clip here for some examples of how well these expanded voice commands work.

MyFord Touch is standard on the 2012 Ford Focus Titanium and optional on Focus SEL models.

Source: Ford

1962 Ford Cougar Concept Car

2011-03-01T15:02:00.002-06:00

Source: Internet

1955 Ford Mystere Concept Car

2011-03-01T14:59:00.002-06:00

Source: Internet

1953 X-100

2011-03-01T14:53:00.003-06:00

Source: Internet

1943 Ford Works Lot

2011-03-01T14:40:00.002-06:00

Source: Internet

F-150 5.0L GETS THE NOD

2011-02-16T13:25:00.002-06:00

A 2011 F-150 XLT SuperCrew 5.0 4x4 showed up in the driveway of pickuptrucks.com last week, and they wasted no time putting it through its paces. In less than a week, they drove it 800 miles – 622 miles of which it towed a 9,000-pound conventional tandem axle horse trailer.

THE BEST QUOTE:

"Snap judgment? This could be the best all-around engine ever offered in the F-150 – at least until EcoBoost…"

Keep your truck knowledge sharp – read this great review by some of our best experts in the road-test business.

Road Test Review: 2011 Ford F-150 XLT 5.0-liter V-8

Super Duty Proves Once Again – We are the “GO TO” Guys

Have you seen this clip? Let's hear it for the Super Duty - if this doesn't represent "Built Ford Tough”, nothing does. Both NBC and Fox News picked it up – we all hate to see someone in trouble in bad weather, but when Super Duty plays the hero, you can't beat that kind of advertising. Best quote from these stories:

“I feel like it’s a blessing to have this [Ford F-250]. God blessed me with a nice vehicle. I might as well use it to help people out sometimes. That’s what I’m gonna do.”

Click Here for the above article.

Source: Ford Region

Camping in a Ford Model T

2011-02-01T18:41:00.001-06:00

Long before there was a motel in every town folks who traveled by car had to make do with whatever comforts they could carry in the primitive automobiles of the day. Normally that meant sleeping on the ground with, at best, protection from a canvas cover attached to the side of the vehicle. A few innovators went a step further, turning the car into a mobile bedroom. Henry Ford's remarkably versatile Model T lent itself to such conversions, becoming the first wheeled "camper" since the covered wagon. The car above, which caught my attention at the Model T 100th Centennial in Richmond, Indiana this year, is a charming example. It got the occupants off the ground, provided basic shelter, and included storage space for bedding, pots and pans, and the various paraphenalia needed when camping away from normal conveniences. Just to prove how practical it may have been in its time, the owners actually slept in their Model T en route to the event.

Source: Internet

Sanitation Workers Destroy a Ford Explorer!

2011-01-18T11:05:00.002-06:00

During the big snowstorm in NYC last week the city was nearly completely shut down. Watch as these NYC Sanitation workers try to free their stuck front loader and destroy a parked car!

Source: Internet/Streetfire

Best Buy, Not Dealerships, To Oversee Ford Focus Electric Home Chargers

2011-01-18T11:02:00.002-06:00

The 220-volt home-charging stations that make electric-car ownership a lot easier—and possible, for heavy commuters—are admittedly more like home appliances than traditional auto accessories.

But it's still a bit surprising that Ford [NYSE: F] has chosen Best Buy, rather than its dealerships, to supervise deployment and installation of home charging stations for the 2012 Ford Focus Electric, which was officially revealed in production form today at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.

In a move that makes sense but might keep customers from seeking help from the Ford dealership as much as they otherwise might, Best Buy is also handling warranty and repair for the charging station. Focus Electric owners will be able to purchase the stations through 1,200 Best Buy stores across the U.S. or through the Best Buy website, then the retailer's Geek Squad service and support crew will schedule an electrical audit and professional installation.

Unlike the charging station for the 2011 Nissan Leaf, the Ford charging station won't be a permanent home installation; it plugs into a 240-volt drier-style outlet and can be removed when needed—such as when the owner moves.

Ford has said that with the 240-volt, charging system, permitting the system's 32-amp maximum capability, the Focus Electric will charge fully in as little as three to four hours—about half the time of the Nissan Leaf. That comes thanks to the 6.6-kW on-board charger.

The price for the home charger, at $1,499 with a standard installation, is also substantially less than that of the Nissan Leaf.

When the connector is plugged into the Focus Electric's charge port, a light ring illuminates to show a proper connection, then the ring lights up in quadrants to show the approximate stage of charge completion.

The Focus Electric, which goes on sale late this calendar year, will offer enough range to satisfy the needs of most driving Americans, Ford says, and is emphasizing the driving experience more than Nissan has with the Leaf. Top speed for the Focus Electric, in final specs revealed at CES, is 84 mph.

This isn't the first time Best Buy's name has been mentioned at CES. GM's OnStar just announced the other day that its hardware would be available for purchase for non-GM vehicles at the electronics retailer's stores.

Source: Internet

2011 North American Truck Of The Year

2011-01-18T10:58:00.001-06:00

Source: Internet

2012 Ford C-Max

2011-01-18T10:06:00.003-06:00

Source: Internet

2012 Ford Focus ST

2011-01-18T10:01:00.002-06:00

Hot hatches, how we love thee. Punchy, pint-sized, yet utilitarian and able to fly (just) under the radar, these do-it-all wonders never cease to please. The 2012 Ford Focus ST is no exception, and this video even treats us to a bit of turbo spool action.

As B-roll footage, it's not particularly exciting, but it does give us yet another look at the car, and this time it's actually moving.

Source: Internet

2012 Ford Focus Electric Live Unveiling At 2011 Detroit Auto Show

2011-01-18T09:59:00.003-06:00

Ford’s Volt and Leaf rival has been revealed, making its world debut last week at the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas and then reappearing again this week at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show. We are, of course, talking about the 2012 Ford Focus Electric, the Blue Oval’s first mass-produced electric car and possibly the pick of the bunch out of the Ford-GM-Nissan trio.

Below is a video of the new model’s unveiling in Detroit this week, with Ford’s product chief Derrick Kuzak and chairman Bill Ford touting all of its benefits.

Source: Internet

2012 Ford Focus EV Prototype

2011-01-18T09:54:00.002-06:00

Ford Focus EV

Plug-in electric cars are the next frontier for green car buyers. Hybrids like the 2010 Toyota Prius and 2010 Honda Insight will duke it out this year, but you can't charge them up from wall current.

GM has been promoting its plans for the 2011 Chevrolet Volt, a plug-in car with an auxiliary engine, for more than two years. In January, Ford startled the Detroit Auto Show by saying it would offer a fully electric Focus in 2011.

Now we've had a chance to drive a development version of that car, which is engineered by supplier Magna, which will also build several thousand copies of the car to be sold at Ford dealers.

We were particularly impressed with the refinement and lack of noise. Most development vehicles haven't been tweaked by noise-vibration-harshness (NVH) engineers, so they squeak, roar, whine, clunk, or howl. The Focus EV may be the most exemplary mule we've driven.

Ford Focus EV - the power electronics sit above the electric motor

Electric cars generate their highest torque from 0 rpm, and the Focus's motor was able to spin the inside front wheel when accelerating hard around a corner. The brakes were nicely integrated, with no noticeable transition between regenerative braking and the friction brakes.

The Bottom Line:

For a development 'mule', this thing feels like it could have rolled off a production line. We couldn't take the car out on freeways, but the car felt showroom-ready in low-speed testing around the roads and parking lots of DisneyWorld (top speed: 30 mph).

Source: Internet

2011 Ford Vertrek Concept

2011-01-18T09:39:00.009-06:00

Ford was clearly one of the stars of last week's Detroit Auto Show, launching green vehicles and concepts across a wide range of fuel-saving technologies.

The company unveiled just a single concept, the Vertrek crossover, but it's an important one. The production version of the Vertrek will be the replacement for both the Escape crossover in the U.S. and the similarly-sized Kuga crossover in Europe.
We don't yet know if it'll keep the Escape name for the U.S., shift to a new name--Vertrek, perhaps?--or even convert over to the European Kuga label. Regardless, this is the hybrid crossover that Ford will offer, along with a raft of other non-hybrid fuel-saving technologies.

Partying like 1999, no more

The 2011 Ford Escape Hybrid is the last year of a model whose basic design dates back more than a decade to the launch of the original 1999 Ford Escape. The hybrid model, added in October 2004, was both the first hybrid sport utility and the first U.S.-built hybrid of any kind.

2009 Ford Escape Hybrid

Now we know what the 2012 Ford Escape Hybrid will look like: Imagine a Vertrek with slightly smaller wheels, and with door handles added.
Add or subtract a few of the flashier trim elements and design cues, and there you have it: a fully modern Escape, with the company's MyFord Touch audio control system and all the electronic goodies you could want.

'Kinetic design'

The new crossover sports a raked-back windshield and carefully shaped body surfaces, both to lessen aerodynamic drag. The trapezoidal lower front grille offers a family connection to the 2012 Ford Focus compact.

2011 Ford Vertrek Concept

Ford calls this its 'kinetic design' theme, and it will be used across most of Ford's lineup of global vehicles. Following the Fiesta and Focus, the first two cars Ford adapted from their European roots to sell in the States, the Vertrek will be the third truly global design to be built and sold all over the world.

The swoopy design resembles the current Kuga far more than than the upright and slab-sided Escape. But the dimensions of the Vertrek are much closer--especially in the all-important wheelbase--to today's Escape, meaning it should have more legroom and interior volume than the slightly smaller Kuga.

The Vertrek show car shows off a panoramic glass roof, which--in light of stringent new rollover roof-strength requirements--may give way to more conventional rectangular moonroof panels.

2009 Ford Kuga

Fuel-saving technologies

There's also a power bulge on the hood, which on the concept car is meant to highlight Ford's 2.0-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

That will be one of two engines offered, and may replace the optional 3.0-liter V-6 offered today. The other engine is likely to be an evolution of the current Escape's 2.5-liter four.

One or both of the gasoline engines may be offered with the engine start-stop technology Ford has said it will offer on various vehicles to eliminate gasoline wasted in idling at stop lights.

Ford Four-Cylinder EcoBoost Engine

Best MPGs of all

But the hybrid is likely to offer the best fuel economy of all. Today's 2011 Ford Escape Hybrid is EPA-rated at 34 mpg city, 31 mpg highway in front-wheel-drive form (30 mpg city, 27 mpg highway fitted with all-wheel-drive).

If Ford stands by its promise to offer 'best-in-class' fuel economy on every new vehicle it sells, those numbers are likely to rise for the new-generation hybrid.
Among other changes, the Escape/Vertrek Hybrid will switch to a lithium-ion battery pack from today's nickel-metal-hydride technology, which holds less energy per pound.

Source: Internet

Polk: Ford Is Number One In 2010 Owner Loyalty, Kia Most Improved

2011-01-14T14:09:00.002-06:00

Ford has won yet another accolade: This past year, its buyers are more loyal than those of any other automaker.

Overall, 61.8 percent of Ford owners in the market for a new vehicle traded their vehicle for another vehicle from Ford Motor Company. The Ford brand itself was nearly as high, at 60.1 percent.

This is the first time Ford has won the award for overall manufacturer loyalty since 1999.

The Automotive Loyalty Awards—now in their fifteenth year—are based on an analysis of 4.9 million "return to market events" during the 2010 model year—running October 1, 2009, through September 30, 2010—and gauge a manufacturer's ability to retain owners in repeat buying cycles. Loyalty, as Polk measures it, is when a household that owns a new vehicle returns to market and then buys or leases another new vehicle of the same make or model.

Among Asian and Hispanic owners, Toyota retained its top standing in loyalty, while among African-American owners Ford also ranked at the top.

"It's clear that the OEMs are paying attention to the importance of owner loyalty in this economy," said Stephen Polk, chairman, president, and CEO of Polk, in a news release. "We've seen many programs put into place to help them keep customers coming back – and it's paying off for them."

Polk pointed to another curious trend: throughout the sales slump, overall loyalty rates across the industry have increased. It appears that in a time of tight resources, shoppers are going with what's tried and true.

Kia most improved for loyalty in 2010

Kia was the most improved in loyalty, up nearly six percentage points from 2009, while repeat winners included the Mini Cooper, Toyota Prius, Chrysler Town & Country, Ford F-Series, Subaru Forester, Lexus RX, and Land Rover Range Rover.

Polk also notes the continued ascension of Asian brands, as opposed to domestic and European brands, in market share: Asian brands no hold about 54 percent of the market, as opposed to 37 percent for domestics and about nine percent for Europeans. The changes in loyalty signaled that trend: From 2005 to 2010, loyalty to Asian brands rose more than six percent, but loyalty to the 'Big 3' fell by nearly three percent.

See below for Polk's individual award winners and their calculated Loyalty Percentage:

Overall Awards
Winner
Loyalty Percentage

Overall Loyalty to Manufacturer
Ford Motor Company
61.8

Overall Loyalty to Make
Ford
60.1

Ethnic Market Make – African American
Ford
60.1

Ethnic Market Make – Asian
Toyota (repeat winner)
53.6

Ethnic Market Make – Hispanic
Toyota
58.1

Most Improved Loyalty to Make
Kia
+5.9 percentage points

Vehicle Category Awards
Winner
Loyalty Percentage

Compact Car
MINI Cooper (repeat winner)
28.2

Mid/Full-size Car
Toyota Prius (repeat winner)
38.9

Luxury Car
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
45.6

Sports Car
Dodge Challenger
20.5

Luxury Sports Car
Jaguar XK
22.2

Minivan
Chrysler Town & Country (repeat winner)
32.6

Mid/Full-size Pickup
Ford F-Series (repeat winner)
42.3

Compact SUV
Subaru Forester (repeat winner)
31.9

Mid/Full-size SUV
Lexus RX (repeat winner)
41.1

Luxury SUV
Land Rover Range Rover (repeat winner)
35.4

Source: Internet

1949 Ford - Design and Testing

2011-01-03T03:04:00.001-06:00

Source: Internet

1960's Ford Concept Cars - 1965 Mustang

2011-01-03T02:44:00.001-06:00

Source: Internet

What a Ride!! What A Driver!!

2010-12-23T21:13:00.002-06:00

Click Here to check out this video of the 2011 Ford Fiesta Monster.

It's a video that you will want to watch more than once.

Source: Youtube

GLOBAL REVEAL OF NEW HIGH-PERFORMANCE FORD FOCUS ST AT PARIS SHOW

2010-12-02T01:39:00.001-06:00

The next-generation Ford Focus ST makes its global debut at the
2010 Paris Motor Show

•Ford delivers on promise to introduce a global performance version of the new Focus: next-generation 250 PS Focus ST previewed at the Paris Motor Show

•Ford's first global high-performance model, scheduled for 2012 launch and developed by Ford's global Performance Vehicles team

•Exciting new model will be true to Ford's ST heritage, with exhilarating performance and handling, an addictive sound and muscular sports design

•Pure performance delivered by unique 250 PS version of new 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost four-cylinder petrol engine

•Over 10 per cent more power and torque than the current European Focus ST, but fuel consumption and CO2 emissions cut by more than 20 per cent

•Lowered chassis and unique suspension tuning to deliver acclaimed ST handling agility and poise

•5-door ST show car for Paris features dramatic ‘Tangerine Scream’ body colour, reflecting new ST's exciting and energetic character

The exciting next-generation Ford Focus ST makes its global debut at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, providing an early preview of the new high-performance model which will be introduced around the world in 2012.

Ford's first global high performance model and a star attraction for Ford in Paris, the powerful new Focus ST show car was revealed today by Alan Mulally, Ford’s President and CEO, and Stephen Odell, Chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe.

This range-topping Focus will be completely true to Ford's ST model heritage, offering driving enthusiasts an intoxicating cocktail of exhilarating performance and handling, an addictive sound and muscular sports design.
"The ST will be the performance flagship of our new Focus range, and we are excited to provide our enthusiast customers with an early preview in Paris," said Gunnar Herrmann, Ford Motor Company's Global C-car Vehicle Line Director. "The ST represents an ultimate expression of Focus driving quality and performance and we are confident that the new model will strengthen the reputation of Ford's ST heritage among enthusiast drivers and attract new fans as well."

Global Performance Model
One common Focus ST model is being developed for all global markets, with the vehicle targeted for launch during 2012. This will be the first time that Ford has produced one of its highly regarded high-performance models for a global audience.

The Focus ST development programme is being undertaken by Ford’s global Performance Vehicles group, which comprises Team RS (Europe) and SVT (USA) engineers, who are dedicated to developing and tuning products like the formidable Focus RS, Shelby GT500 and F-150 SVT Raptor.

For new Focus ST the development is being led by Team RS performance specialists based in Europe, building on their extensive experience in engineering sought-after cars like the previous ST models and legendary RS series.

“The new Focus ST will be our first true global performance vehicle and we are excited about the chance to give many customers worldwide their first taste of Ford's acclaimed ST heritage,” said Jost Capito, Director of Global Performance Vehicles. “Like the ST and RS models before it, the Focus ST will be the result of painstaking tuning around the curves of the Nürburgring, along high-speed German autobahns, and down classic British B-roads.

“For European drivers, the Focus ST will bring the same distinctive qualities of pure dynamics and performance that have created the unique appeal of our ST heritage.

“For enthusiasts in North America and Asia who have asked why our compact performance models were not available to them – the wait is almost over! The new Focus ST will offer exactly the same exciting driving experience wherever it’s on sale,” added Capito.

More Performance – and More Economy – from Ford EcoBoost Power
At the heart of the appeal of the next-generation Focus ST is a high-output 250 PS derivative of the efficient and advanced new 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost four-cylinder petrol engine.

Succeeding the turbocharged 2.5-litre five-cylinder unit of the current European model, this unique 250 PS Ford EcoBoost engine is being specially developed for the new Focus ST to ensure that the car gets the muscular performance – and the inspirational sound – which it deserves. It also marks the first application of the four-cylinder Ford EcoBoost engine in a high performance model.

Compared to the 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost engine used in other Ford vehicles, the 250 PS unit features re-designed intake and exhaust systems and a unique engine calibration to deliver the desired level of power and responsiveness. The engine retains the strong torque delivery which is a feature of Ford EcoBoost designs, with a broad, flat torque curve offering a maximum output of 360 Nm.

One of a completely new generation of downsized, high-efficiency, low-CO2 petrol engines from Ford, the 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost is a lightweight, all-aluminium design which combines three technologies – high-pressure direct injection, low-inertia turbocharging and twin independent variable cam timing – to create an advanced combustion system which brings new levels of performance and fuel efficiency to petrol engines in this power range.

This ultra efficient 250 PS engine therefore not only delivers over 10 per cent more power and torque than the current 2.5-litre unit, it is also estimated to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by more than 20 per cent.

The standard transmission for the Focus ST is a 6-speed manual gearbox, optimised with more sporting ratios carefully matched to the performance characteristics of the engine.

Genuine Performance and Handling
Ford Team RS performance vehicle specialists have a mission: to ensure that the new Focus ST delivers the pure performance and handling everyone expects from a genuine Ford ST model.

Compared to the standard Focus, the ST model will feature a comprehensive range of enhancements including a chassis lowered by 10mm, a substantially different variable ratio steering system, high performance brakes and unique suspension tuning, that will enable the vehicle to deliver the acclaimed ST handling agility and poise.

Naturally, the ST will also benefit from the performance improvements being delivered by the next-generation Focus vehicle architecture. Features like a stronger, stiffer body structure, optimised front and rear suspension system designs, and a new electric power assisted steering (EPAS) system all contribute to superior vehicle dynamics and improved refinement.

Unprecedented Level of Smart Technologies
Focus ST drivers will also be able to take advantage of the unprecedented level of smart new technologies incorporated in Ford’s latest global C-car platform, including advanced new driver assistance, powertrain, chassis and active safety features.

Many of these features, such as the advanced new Torque Vectoring Control system – which acts like a torque vectoring differential to enhance cornering stability and agility – have a direct impact on improving driving quality to an even higher level.

“This is the third generation Focus ST and we are determined that the new car will continue the strong heritage of affordable, high performance ST models into the future,” said Jost Capito. “The technology on offer with Ford's new global C-car platform will also help to ensure that the Focus ST provides enthusiasts with an exceptional driving experience.”

Unique High-Performance Exterior
The new Focus ST features a highly distinctive sports exterior, providing significant functional and aerodynamic benefits and clearly differentiating the ST derivative from other models in the new Focus family.

While sharing the already sleek and dynamic profile of the new Focus five-door, the ST features unique front- and rear-end designs, together with muscular extended rocker panels and striking new alloy wheels based on the classic Y-spoke ST pattern.

“The changes we have made to deliver superior aerodynamics and vehicle performance have made the new Focus ST even more sporty and distinctive,” explained Martin Smith, Executive Design Director. “Exciting new design treatments at the front and rear give the ST a much more dynamic and purposeful character, making it very clear that this is definitely a sporting Focus.”

The more sporting design language is particularly evident at the front end, where the twin upper and lower grilles of the standard car are replaced by a prominent new one-piece design.

Representing the sportiest definition yet of Ford’s signature trapezoidal grille, the bold one-piece design is placed higher on the nose of the vehicle, and incorporates a distinctive hexagonal mesh finished in high gloss black.

The front spoiler has a completely new configuration, with a deep central splitter framed by small motorsport-inspired spoiler blades on either side, which sweep round and encompass the fog lamps. The spoiler blades are linked to the rest of the body lines through the grille structure, which is reminiscent of the similar treatment in the current Focus RS model.

The more assertive, sporting character of the front end is completed by details like the gloss black finish to the headlamp bezels, and the bold red ST badge on the one-piece grille.

From the side, muscular extended rocker panels emphasise the lowered chassis, and the bold wheel arches are filled with 19-inch alloy wheels which are the latest evolution of the classic Y-spoke ST wheel.

Dynamic Rear End Treatment
The rear bumper and lower fascia is also completely new, with prominent diffuser-style vents on either side which mirror the form of the front spoiler blades. Rear lamps with a dark smoked tint enhance the sporty feel.

The new Focus ST has a high-performance exhaust system, which exits the vehicle through a central dual-pipe outlet. The exhaust outlet has been given a highly-distinctive design treatment with a strong kinetic form which emulates the design themes on the rest of the car.

The car’s aerodynamic package is completed by a highly effective integrated roof spoiler, which has been optimised to deliver improved high-speed stability and reduced drag. With a larger, more exaggerated design than the spoiler on the current Focus ST, it incorporates ducting to the rear screen and has been carefully integrated with the vehicle tailgate and roof.

Dramatic New Body Colour
The Paris preview car is finished in a dramatic new 'Tangerine Scream' body colour, which reflects the exciting and energetic new character of the Focus ST.

A spiritual successor to the signature Electric Orange finish of the current Focus ST, Tangerine Scream is a very intense and vibrant high-saturation metallic yellow-gold tone created using an experimental process with multiple layers of tinted lacquer.

“Such an exciting new car deserves an exciting new finish and we believe that this vibrant new colour will prove just as memorable as Electric Orange,” said Martin Smith. “You can expect to see a very similar shade when the ST reaches the showroom.”

To complement the vibrant exterior colour, the 19-inch alloy wheels have a warm, anodised Golden Graphite finish. Their sophisticated five-spoke design is contrasted by the brake calipers which are brightly painted in body colour.

Bold High-Contrast Sports Cockpit
The performance theme from the exterior is echoed inside the car, with a very bold high-contrast sports cockpit featuring Recaro seats, unique instrumentation and modern, highly technical finishes.

Dramatically-bolstered and rally-inspired Recaro leather and fabric front seats provide an ideal balance between sporting support and long-distance comfort, and form the centrepiece of the cabin.

The seats are finished in high-quality Charcoal Black leather, offset by bold orange gold panels in a neoprene fabric and vibrant yellow-gold contrast stitching. The central Charcoal Black fabric seat panels feature a rugged embossed design in the style of a performance tyre tread pattern. The rear Recaro seats are finished in the same distinctive style.

Throughout the cabin, unique details ensure that the Focus ST clearly signals its sporting intent. Three additional gauges for turbo boost, oil pressure and oil temperature are housed in a dedicated binnacle on the upper instrument panel; the instrument cluster features unique ST sports graphics with red needle pointers; and the centre console has a technical carbon-effect finish.

The interior has the signature ST treatment of a dark interior environment, with black headlining, bespoke steering wheel and a gear knob featuring the ST logo, plus metal racing pedals.

The premium sports feel of the cabin is enhanced by a generous use of Charcoal Black leather with vibrant yellow-gold contrast stitching on many of the interior surfaces, including the seats, door panels, central armrest, steering wheel, gearshift gaiter and the top of the instrument binnacle.

“The Focus ST will be a serious driving machine, and we have developed a purposeful exterior combined with a cockpit that blends sporting function with impressive comfort,” said Stephen Odell. “The approach of form following function is a key part of the ST DNA, and we have remained true to that both inside and outside the vehicle.”

Source: Ford

NEW STEALTH FORD POLICE INTERCEPTOR MIXES MUSCLE, MYSTERY AT 2010 SEMA SHOW

2010-11-30T01:08:00.001-06:00

•Ford to debut the ultimate stealth Police Interceptor at SEMA – a customized concept of its all-new Police Interceptor sedan

•Revamped grille, lighting, exhaust and interior provide a sleek, yet slightly sinister look designed to blend muscle with mystery

•Designer drew inspiration from the SR-71 Blackbird, the original stealth airplane revealed in the ’60s and considered by many aviation experts to be the ultimate aircraft

Stealth Ford Police Interceptor concept

DEARBORN, Nov. 1, 2010 – Sleek, streamlined and slightly sinister, a specialized stealth concept version of Ford’s Police Interceptor will debut at the SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) trade show in Las Vegas.

Using the strong lines and muscular stance of the Ford Police Interceptor sedan as a base, Ford designer Melvin Betancourt developed a customized undercover stealth version that’s both stylish and full of high-tech surprises.

“This car offered the perfect canvas for me as a designer,” Betancourt said. “The Police Interceptor sedan is already a unique vehicle. I just started looking at ways to give it that mysterious but high-tech look.”

The Police Interceptor sedan was introduced in March, followed by a utility version in September. Both Interceptors will debut simultaneously when production of the Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor ceases in late 2011.

The stealth concept vehicle will be on display throughout the SEMA show, which runs Nov. 2-5.

Betancourt started the undercover version by lowering the body and giving the illusion of added width. The body was lowered an inch, and the special 22-inch wheels are inside a staggered rim section so the front is 3 inches and the rear is 3.5 inches.

“The rim section is stacked to give it the illusion of greater width,” he said. “The center of the wheel is glossy black, and the rim is chrome. So we have that racy, hot rod look, but at the same time we’re building a sinister, stealthy, ‘Don’t mess with me’ feeling.”

Top-secret airplane provides inspiration

Betancourt used imagery of the SR-71, the original stealth airplane, for inspiration as he customized the vehicle. Known as the “Blackbird,” this high-altitude, long-range reconnaissance aircraft was secretly designed in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Its top speed was more than three times the speed of sound. Now retired, the Blackbird is considered by many aviation enthusiasts as the ultimate airplane.

Betancourt kept in mind the Blackbird’s iconic imagery and status as he considered the elements of his own stealth project. “When you think stealth, you think, ‘there, but not there.’ This is all about strength, secrecy and concealment.”

The exterior of the Police Interceptor stealth vehicle is solid black. The grille is mesh, like the original sedan, but the metal is thicker, offering more depth. The lights on the car are designed to be inconspicuous, with the surrounding area painted black so they blend in until illuminated.

The back of the vehicle was given an aggressive spoiler adorned with bead lights painted black so they remain unnoticed until the car is started. The taillights are smoked, the windows tinted.

It’s a vehicle that exudes power – and it should. The production Police Interceptor sedan model offers two powertrain options, allowing police to choose the engine that best meets their needs.

A 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering at least 280 horsepower and E85 compatibility is 25 percent more efficient than the 4.6-liter single-overhead-cam V8 offered in the current Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor. And an all-new 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged, direct-injection EcoBoost™ V6 engine will deliver at least 365 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque across a broad rpm range.

That strength complements the mystery inside the revamped interior of the stealth version.

“It’s all about concealing everything,” Betancourt said. “The headliner is black, we wrapped the B-pillars in black, and then we started looking at, ‘Where can I hide this? How can I conceal this?’ We repackaged the console – it looks like a production console with the waterfall of the instrument panel. But when you start opening doors and panels, that’s when you see everything.”

Unless you’re supposed to be in the vehicle, you won’t know where and how to find the compartments, he said. For example, the radio is hidden inside the console, as is an onboard computer. Also, the glove box has a secret space designed for weapons.

Betancourt anticipates visitors to SEMA will immediately sense the uniqueness of the car.

Right away, they’ll see this vehicle that looks different, that looks sinister – but they won’t know exactly why. Then, as they get closer, they’ll start to see all of these touches that work together to create the overall image.”

Source: Ford

NEW FOCUS RACE CAR CONCEPT: L.A. AUTO SHOW DEBUT FOR FORD’S NEXT GLOBAL TOURING RACE CAR

2010-11-30T01:03:00.002-06:00

Ford Focus Race Car Concept

•Focus race car concept by Ford Racing makes its global debut at the 2010 Los Angeles International Auto Show

•Powered by a 2.0-liter Ford EcoBoost™ turbo engine, the Focus race car concept is built to compete in global road and touring car racing

•All-new Focus, Ford’s latest offering, will be raced by touring car teams globally, building on Ford’s history in engineering race-ready platforms. First race appearance for the car is anticipated to be in the 2011 British Touring Car Championship

•Focus race car concept hints at future potential as Ford coordinates with and provides technical support to private race teams around the world to develop one common race car capable of winning major touring car categories

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 17, 2010 – Ford Motor Company is putting racing on the map at the 2010 Los Angeles International Auto Show with the debut of the Focus race car concept, demonstrating future potential for the all-new 2012 Ford Focus to compete in road and touring car championships with teams around the world.

The Focus race car concept is a dramatic example of Ford’s global approach to product development and builds on the company’s comprehensive approach to leveraging its global product platforms.

This race car concept, powered by the sophisticated 2.0-liter Ford EcoBoost I-4 engine, is the first to benefit from a collaborative effort between Ford and race teams around the world that have already built and raced successful Focus race cars. The Focus race car concept has been based around rules governing circuit racing in the United States and beyond.

“This teamwork has resulted in a global racing platform using a common Focus body and a safety cage built to FIA regulations – a competitive platform that can be tailored for regional competition, based on different rules,” said Jost Capito, director of Global Performance Vehicles and Motorsport Business Development. “By leveraging our collective experience and Ford technology worldwide, this approach parallels our global dedication to the Focus production car and specifically its exciting performance derivative, the new Focus ST, to deliver a competitive race car that can be campaigned around the world.”

Using the all-new Focus as its base, the Focus race car concept features AST performance coil-over adjustable dampers, Ford Racing upgraded sway bars with adjustable end links and front brakes with 320-millimeter two-piece rotors and race pads. The Anthracite 18-inch wheels and Hoosier race tires put the finishing touches on the exterior.

In addition to the FIA Super 2000 regulations roll cage, interior components include a Recaro® racing seat, AIM MXL Pista data system and AIM SmartyCam. Ford Racing fire suppression system and Ford Racing six-point safety harness round out the modifications that bring the car from street-spec to race-ready.

“There has been tremendous interest from the racing world in the new Focus, and it’s the perfect fit for a global touring car,” said Capito. “Even more, by working with professional private race teams, we’re ensuring Focus has the support it needs to compete and win around the world.”

Benefits will stretch beyond the track

Professional private race teams are partnering with Ford to develop common technical specifications for the race car, which will conform to FIA Super 2000 regulations with potential to adopt to other regulations.

The teams are being brought together by Ford to harness their strengths and define roles for the development of the race car. Ford will also support the race teams by providing data, advanced engineering tools, state-of-the-art testing facilities and production parts, resulting in teams racing more competitive cars that are developed with greater efficiency.

“Ford’s commitment to using motorsports to influence high-performance vehicles will be highly evident, as the development of the Focus touring car will also provide valuable input as we develop the upcoming Focus ST production car,” said Capito. “It’s very similar to how the Mustang team was able to apply learnings from the Ford Racing Boss 302R to the 2012 Mustang Boss 302.”

The first race appearance for the Focus is targeted for the 2011 British Touring Car Championship. Globally, the race car has the potential to run in many national and regional championships, such as the China Touring Car Championship and 24-hour endurance races like the classic Nürburgring in Germany.

New global Focus has it all

The new Focus is the result of a global product development program bringing together Ford’s best engineers and technology from around the world. The new Focus will be sold in 122 markets worldwide and manufactured in Ford plants in Asia, Europe and North America.

All Focus models sold in North America will be powered by Ford’s most advanced naturally aspirated engine ever: a new, 2.0-liter gasoline engine equipped with direct injection and twin independent variable camshaft timing – two important fuel-saving technologies. A six-speed PowerShift automatic transmission will be offered.

A Focus ST version also will be available, boasting exhilarating performance and an addictive sound. Ford’s first global high-performance model, scheduled for 2012 launch and developed by Ford’s global performance vehicles team, will deliver a 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4 engine, lowered chassis, high-performance brakes and unique suspension tuning. The standard transmission for Focus ST is a six-speed manual, optimized with sporting ratios matched to the performance characteristics of the engine.

Ford’s North American engineering team is targeting fuel economy of 40 mpg highway for the most efficient Focus model, equipped with an automatic transmission. The new Focus will also offer North American consumers a full suite of Ford technology – including Ford SYNC®, MyFord Touch™, in-car Wi-Fi capability, active park assist and rear view camera.

Source: Ford

FORD TRANSIT CONNECT XLT PREMIUM WAGON DEBUTS WITH ADDED COMFORT, CONVENIENCE FEATURES

2010-11-30T01:00:00.001-06:00

Transit Connect XLT Premium Wagon

•Ford Transit Connect – 2010 North American Truck of the Year – is expanding its lineup with the addition of a Transit Connect XLT Premium Wagon offering

•Transit Connect XLT Premium Wagon offers seating for five passengers with enhanced interior appointments and visibility from integrated blind-spot mirrors, a rear view camera and flip-open rear quarter windows

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 18, 2010 – A new personal-use package for the 2011 Ford Transit Connect debuted today at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show.

The XLT Premium Wagon offers more comfort and visibility for second-row passengers, something customers have been asking for since the small, fuel-efficient van went on sale in the United States in 2009.

“Since Transit Connect arrived here as the ‘ultimate tool’ for small business proprietors, we’ve heard requests from potential personal-use customers,” said Rob Stevens, chief nameplate engineer for Commercial Vehicles. “Buyers looking for a taller wagon with seating for five passengers and generous cargo space have shown significant interest in Transit Connect.”

XLT Premium Wagon offers enhanced second-row passenger comfort, including cargo space surface trim, wheelhouse covers and flip-open rear quarter windows for draft-free ventilation.
This personal-use package gives owners and drivers additional confidence with blind-spot sideview mirrors, rear view camera, rear cargo door windows and privacy glass.

Transit Connect was named North American Truck of the Year in January 2010, selected by journalist jurors for its unique combination of car-like ride, 135 cubic feet of cargo space, 1,600-pound payload capacity and unmatched fuel efficiency – up to an EPA-rated 26 mpg highway.

All Transit Connect models – including XLT Premium Wagon – are assembled at the Ford Otosan joint-venture production facility in Kocaeli, Turkey, and are available at North American Ford dealerships.

Source: Ford

L.A. AUTO SHOW: ALL-NEW FORD FOCUS MAKES NORTH AMERICAN DEBUT WITH PROJECTED 40 MPG

2010-11-30T00:57:00.003-06:00

2012 Ford Focus

•New Ford Focus combines expressive design with an exceptional array of smart new technologies, high levels of craftsmanship and occupant safety

•Focus will deliver up to a projected 40 mpg on the highway, while offering the driver engaging performance and handling

•Focus production starts at the end of 2010 at the company’s Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Mich.

•North American Focus hatchback and sedan models will go on sale – in S, SE, SEL and Titanium trim series levels – at Ford dealerships in early 2011

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 17, 2010 – The all-new Ford Focus is gearing up for its North American launch with a sporty five-door hatchback and sleek four-door sedan, both taking center stage today at the 2010 Los Angeles International Auto Show.

The all-new Focus will set a new standard in the small car segment, offering more technology and features than more expensive European cars, while delivering an expected 40 mpg, the only gas engine-powered vehicle with an automatic transmission in its segment to do so.

“Focus brings a desirable combination of dynamic design, outstanding driver engagement, unmatched levels of technology and impressive fuel economy,” said Mark Fields, president of The Americas. “The new model should expand Focus appeal to a whole new generation of customers.”

Focus is Ford’s most significant global nameplate. With more than 10 million units sold since launch in 1998, Focus has become a sales leader with consumers worldwide for its outstanding value, comfort, safety, technology and driving dynamics.

Following an unprecedented global development program under the company’s One Ford strategy, the all-new 2012 Focus is set to continue its successful tradition. Focus demonstrates how Ford can scale to meet the universal needs of worldwide customers, while fine-tuning to suit regional preferences.

“In every world market where Focus competes, customers are looking for expressive design, meaningful technologies, responsive performance and exceptional fuel economy,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford group vice president of Global Product Development. “Focus will set new standards for these comparatives and offer a class-leading range of standard and available content, enabled by its global scale.”

Distinguished by its sleek and sporty design, the new Focus is packed with more affordable technologies and features than Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla or even larger competitors such as Honda Accord or Toyota Camry. In addition, Focus offers high standards of quality and craftsmanship and class-leading fuel economy, and it takes driving dynamics to a new level.

“One of every four new vehicles sold in the world today comes from this small car segment, which we anticipate will see further growth in North America,” said Jim Hughes, chief engineer. “We’re aiming to stretch Focus’ ‘brandwidth’ by adding a premium Titanium series with luxury levels of convenience and comfort, appealing to an ever-expanding spectrum of buyers.”

Developed in Europe and for sale in more than 120 markets worldwide, the all-new Focus is a key element of the North American Ford product portfolio. Building on the quality leadership of the previous model, the next-generation Focus range has been expanded to include a high-series Titanium model that will please drivers shifting from larger and luxury-class vehicles.

Striking, streamlined design

Both Focus bodystyles share a sporty character, marking the next evolution of Ford’s acclaimed kinetic design form language. With its striking front end, sleek profile, dramatic rising beltline and athletic stance, the new Focus signals the rewarding experience awaiting a driver.

The all-new Focus four-door has a drag coefficient as low as 0.297, compared to the current model’s 0.320. This is a lower drag coefficient than Chevrolet Cruze and Volkswagen Jetta. The slippery Focus shape and steeply raked windshield contribute to significantly reduced drag. Optimized aerodynamics help to reduce Focus wind noise at speed and contribute to improved fuel efficiency.

Focus features new active grille shutters to block airflow through the cooling system when not required. In addition to an aerodynamic improvement at higher speeds, active grille shutters reduce underhood temperatures at low speed, increasing thermal efficiency.

Stylish, functional interior

The dynamic quality of the exterior is reinforced by the distinctive design of the interior. Focus has a modern, cockpit-style interior, with a stylish center console.

The most significant interior innovation is SYNC® with MyFord Touch™, which replaces many of the traditional vehicle buttons, knobs and gauges with clear, colorful LCD screens and five-way buttons. The screens can be personalized to display information relevant to each driver using a simple button click, voice command or touch screen tap. MyFord Touch is powered by a new generation of the company’s award-winning SYNC system, which includes a sophisticated voice control system for vehicle functions, connected Bluetooth® devices, MP3 players and a wide variety of external media.
The interior combines functionality with outstanding craftsmanship. The cabin’s bold and contemporary graphics, the sculptured shape of the soft-touch instrument panel and the choice of superior trim materials combine to give occupants a premium-class experience.

Focus brings C-car interior space to a new level, rivaling larger vehicles. It offers more shoulder room than an Audi A4, and more front headroom than a Toyota Camry. In the spacious second row, Focus provides more hip room than the Audi or Toyota.

Smart technology for safety and practicality

The worldwide scale of Ford’s C-car program makes additional technologies and features more economically viable than ever for cars in this segment. This enabled Focus engineers to make a wide range of innovative technologies available to meet the diverse needs of global consumers.

While the number of features offered in each market will vary according to local customer demand and acceptance, the full range of technologies has been engineered for Focus, meaning additional features could be made available to meet changing market requirements.

The comprehensive range of smart technologies and features available on the new Focus for North America includes:

•Active park assist
•SYNC with Traffic, Directions and Information
•HD Radio™ with iTunes® Tagging
•Ambient lighting
•Torque vectoring control
•Rear view camera
•Intelligent Access with push-button start

Unmatched driving quality

The original Ford Focus brought new levels of driving agility to this segment of cars. Now Focus raises the benchmark to target class-leading driving quality, blending communicative steering with significantly improved ride quality. To achieve this, Ford engineers have optimized new designs for the Control Blade™ multilink rear suspension and semi-isolated front subframe.

The Focus chassis design is complemented by a completely new electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) system, which has been carefully tuned to deliver precise response at speed while remaining light and maneuverable for easy parking.

Ford engineers have enhanced Focus cornering stability and agility with an advanced torque vectoring control system, behaving like a limited-slip differential to constantly balance the distribution of torque between the front wheels. This results in reduced understeer, improved traction and better turn-in.

The system is particularly effective as the car accelerates through corners, applying an imperceptible amount of braking to the inside front wheel so that more of the engine torque goes to the outside wheel with greater traction. This makes the car feel smaller, more agile and responsive. Torque vectoring control provides handling characteristics that will flatter novice drivers and reward the expert ones.

Spirited performance with outstanding economy

The engaging driver appeal of the new Ford Focus is magnified by an advanced powertrain delivering spirited performance while targeting class-leading fuel economy.

Focus is fitted with a completely new 2.0-liter gasoline direct-injection four-cylinder engine that combines high-pressure direct injection and twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) for enhanced performance and fuel efficiency. This engine delivers more power than the current 2.0-liter Duratec® unit featured in the North American Focus, while contributing to projected fuel economy gains of more than 10 percent.

To maximize its performance and economy advantage, the engine is mated with the latest dry-clutch six-speed Ford PowerShift automatic transmission. A high-efficiency dual dry-clutch design, the transmission alone can help to reduce fuel consumption by up to 9 percent compared to a traditional four-speed automatic. This advanced transmission is also offered with SelectShift Automatic™ functionality, allowing drivers to manually control gear selection.

For drivers preferring a stick shift and clutch pedal, Focus offers a five-speed manual transmission alternative.

The all-new 2012 Ford Focus goes on sale at North American Ford dealerships in early 2011. It will be manufactured at Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Mich.

Source: Ford

Ford Figo

2010-11-02T04:26:00.003-05:00

The Ford Figo is Ford's new subcompact automobile that went on sale on 10 March 2010 in India for Rs 3.5 lakh (U$8400). It is based on the fourth generation Ford Fiesta hatchback that was phased out in 2008. It is built only in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, to be sold in developing countries. The current generation Fiesta is not sold in India.

First generation

The vehicle was unveiled in New Delhi in September 2009.

Engines

The Ford Figo is available in both petrol and diesel versions, all with five speed manual transmissions and power steering as standard:

A four cylinder 1196cc 16V DOHC Petrol engine, rated at 71 PS (52 kW; 70 bhp) @6250rpm with 102 N·m (75 ft·lbf) @4000rpm maximum torque.

A four cylinder 1399cc 8V SOHC Diesel engine, rated at 69 PS (51 kW; 68 bhp) @4000rpm with 160 N·m (120 ft·lbf) @2000rpm maximum torque.

The petrol version is the all new 1.2 liter, SEFI petrol engine with five speed manual transmission. The petrol variant gives a mileage of around 12.5 kmpl mileage in the city while on the highway it offers mileage around 15.5 kmpl. The engine also meets with BS-IV (Bharat Stage - IV) emission norms. Diesel variants of the Figo are powered by Ford’s 1.4 liter Duratorq diesel engine. This engine also currently powers Ford Ikon and Ford Fiesta. This engine too, satisfies the BS-IV emission norms. It offers a mileage around 14.5 kmpl in the city while on the highway it delivers a mileage of 18.5 kmpl. The Figo also offers the 'Distance to Empty' feature, informing how many km one can go with the available petrol in the tank.

Source: Wikipedia

Ford Mainline

2010-11-02T04:18:00.002-05:00

1952 Ford Mainline 4 door sedan

The Ford Mainline is an automobile which was produced by the Ford Motor Company in the United States in the models years 1952 to 1956. It was introduced as the base trim level of the 1952 Ford range below the Customline and Crestline models. The Mainline retained its position in the redesigned 1955 Ford range but was dropped for the 1957 model year when the Ford Custom became the new base model.

The Mainline was offered in 2 door sedan, 4 door sedan, 2 door coupe and 2 door station wagon body styles. The station wagon was marketed as the Mainline Ranch Wagon until it lost its Mainline tag for the 1955 model year when all Ford wagons were moved to their own series. Mainlines were available with both inline six cylinder and V8 engines.

Australian Ford Mainline Utility

Australian Ford Mainline Utility

In Australia the Mainline name was applied to a locally developed 2 door coupé utility version of the Ford Customline sedan from 1952. The Mainline utilized an imported Ford V8 convertible chassis with an added cross member for additional load carrying strength. It sold alongside the Australian built Customline sedan, with both given yearly updates until production ceased in 1959. The Mainline Utility were powered by an Australian produced version of the Ford side valve V8 engine until the introduction of the OHV V8 in the redesigned 1955 series.

Source: Wikipedia

Ford F-Series At 2010 SEMA Show

2010-10-30T02:35:00.008-05:00

•Customized versions of Ford F-150 and Super Duty will show their stuff at the Ford stand, displaying the variety of modifications customers can make at the 2010 SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) show. Themes include a motocross concept, a Pro Football Hall of Fame-dedicated truck and a race car support truck

•Ford F-Series trucks have been a popular mainstay at SEMA, winning three awards in the past five years, including the Accessory-Friendly Truck design award twice

•Ford F-Series is the best-selling line of trucks in the marketplace for 33 years running and the most customized trucks in the $31.85 billion aftermarket industry
Dearborn, Mich., Oct. 22, 2010 – Ford F-Series trucks have long been known for their definitive power and capability, but they’re also admired for the versatility of the platform, which can be adapted to everything from off-roading to low-riding. At the SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) show in Las Vegas Nov. 2-5, the versatility of F-Series will again shine in the industry spotlight.

“These trucks sell imagery across the board,” said Melvin Betancourt, Ford specialty design manager. “Customers in the truck world want to go off-roading, or at least have the image that they can, or have a truck they can cruise in. We have trucks that fit everything in those categories.”

F-Series trucks have not only been a major presence at SEMA, but they have also garnered three awards in the past five years, including the Accessory-Friendly Truck design award. They have also been awarded Motor Trend’s Truck Trend Top 5 Trucks from SEMA for the 2009 Ford F-150 Heavy Duty DeWalt Contractor Concept. Additionally, Ford F-Series is the best-selling line of trucks in the marketplace for 33 years running and the most customized trucks in the $31.85 billion aftermarket industry.

The 2011 Ford F-150 offers an all-new powertrain lineup, including a new 3.7-liter V6engine that is projected to deliver best-in-class 23 mpg highway, pending final EPA certification. A new twin-turbo 3.5-liter EcoBoost™ engine with Ti-VCT also will be available, and has been torture-tested for tough truck use in the lab and on the road. The new 5.0-liter V8 engine is projected to deliver best-in-class 21 mpg highway pending EPA certification.

The F-Series dynamic duo is rounded out with an all-new 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty, with the first Ford-designed, Ford-engineered and Ford-manufactured heavy-duty diesel 6.7-liter Power Stroke® V8 turbocharged engine. This versatile Ford diesel is a key reason why the 2011 F-Series Super Duty has best-in-class payload of 7,070 pounds and best-in-class towing capability of 24,400 pounds.

F-Series project trucks showcased at this year’s SEMA show include:

2011 Ford F-150 by Godfather Customs

Godfather Customs is demonstrating that going green can still mean style with its Ford F-150 with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine. Modifications include a 2.5-inch cowl induction hood, bumper cover and roll pan and handle relocator. A tonneau bed cover and liner and halo taillamps round out the customizations.

2011 Ford F-150 by A.R.E. Accessories

This Ford F-150 by A.R.E. Accessories promotes the mission of the Pro Football Hall of Fame to educate, honor and preserve the history of professional football. Featuring hall of fame styling, the truck is painted with a stadium silhouette and features pigskin leather and materials reminiscent of the gold hall of fame jackets inside. The bed will display notable hall of fame memorabilia, while a wrap on the interior of the bed will simulate the hall of fame enshrinement gallery.

2011 Ford F-150 by Mickey Thompson

The Mickey Thompson Project TTC F-150 is the perfect off-road vehicle, with the new 35-inch Mickey Thompson Baja Claw TTC Radical tires, Fabtech 6-inch suspension, PIAA auxiliary lighting and Warn Industries winch recovery gear. The interior comes with Katzkin leather and aftermarket audio, video and navigation enhancements. For additional utility, the truck features a BedSlide cargo management system and AMP Research power steps.

2011 Ford F-150 by The Custom Shop

On this Ford F-150 with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine by The Custom Shop, shaved handles, lightweight tonneau cover, lightweight rims and low-rolling-resistance tires help enhance looks and mileage. The green theme carries into the styling, with a custom show paint job with a detailed pinstripe border using a low-VOC-emissions DuPont paint. The interior matches the exterior styling with custom Katzkin tan and black leather.

2011 Ford F-350 Super Duty by Rize Industries

This Ford F-350 is a motocross concept that uses top-quality products with the highest standards in craftsmanship. The truck features a Rize Industries 8-inch quad-link suspension that offers additional ground clearance. The bed comes complete with a built-in loading ramp, power washer, air compressor, built-in motorcycle stand and storage space for riding gear.

2011 Ford F-350 Super Duty by Cars by Kris and Airhead Kustoms

Cars by Kris and Airhead Kustoms delivers the Pit Boss, the ultimate tow and support vehicle built off a Ford F-350 Super Duty platform. Built to haul a race car to the track and serve as a mobile pit, the truck offers a bed-mounted tire cage and custom swing-case toolboxes. The interior features custom headliner and leather upholstery, along with sound-deadening material and an in-dash computer system.

2011 Ford F-350 Super Duty by Skyjacker Suspensions

Skyjacker Suspensions’ Ford F-350 Super Duty is made to appeal to the active lifestyle of the Super Duty owner. A Skyjacker-developed 8.5-inch suspension offers a bold lift for work and play, and will let the owner go deeper into the field. Heavy-duty front and rear Fab Fours bumpers are added along with a Warn Industries winch and lights to round out the tough look.

Source: Ford

2011 Ford F-150

2010-10-30T02:27:00.001-05:00

Best-in-Class Capability, Better Fuel Economy

Ford F-Series – the future of trucks is here! With the most extensive powertrain makeover in its 62-year history and the first EcoBoost™ truck engine, the 2011 Ford F-150 delivers best-in-class power and up to 20 percent better fuel economy. Bottom line – the 2011 Ford F-150 offers more choice and capability than ever.

PRESS RELEASES

2011 Ford F-150 Overview
2011 Ford F-150 Engine Lineup
2011 Ford F-150 EcoBoost Engine
2011 Ford F-150 Fuel Economy

6R-80 Transmission

2011 Ford F-150 Desert Racer

Web-Based Documentaries TECHNOLOGY FACT SHEETS

3.7-liter V6
5.0-liter V8
6.2-liter V8
3.5-liter EcoBoost

2011 Ford F-150 XLT Custom
Trailer Towing Comparison

2011 Ford F-150 Engine Availability
2011 Ford F-150 Truck Technologies
Electric Power-Assisted Steering
6R-80 Transmission

Source: Ford

All New Ford Ranger

2010-10-30T02:08:00.006-05:00

Powerful stance and confident proportions are central to the ‘21st Century Tough’ character of the all-new Ford Ranger

Designed around pickup truck capability, the large body all-new Rangers feature a deep, spacious box and high beltline that give it a purposeful presence. Its sculpted, contemporary shape is optimised for aerodynamic efficiency

The all-new Ranger debuts with a spacious, comprehensively featured Double Cab model that previews a complete range of three body styles, 4x2 and 4x4 versions and a broad series lineup

Stretched on the inside for more spaciousness and easier access, Ranger has all the comforts, features and refinement for up to five occupants

The interior design and contemporary look of the all-new Ford Ranger features outstanding levels of craftsmanship and feature content, reflecting the importance of dual use to many customers in this segment around the world

HARDEST WORKER – ALL-NEW FORD RANGER DEBUTS WITH MORE POWER, CAPABILITY AND TECHNOLOGIES

The all-new Ford Ranger – the latest in a wave of global vehicles – makes its worldwide debut today at the Australian International Motor Show.

The all-new Ranger has a powerful presence and promises to give pickup truck owners more can-do capability and a transformed truck ownership experience.

From impressive gains in power and safety to exceptional towing capability, the next-generation Ford Ranger emerges as a clear segment leader.

Source: Ford

FORD POSTS THIRD QUARTER 2010 NET INCOME OF $1.7 BILLION

2010-10-30T02:02:00.000-05:00

•Ford reports third quarter net income of $1.7 billion, or 43 cents per share, a $690 million improvement from third quarter 2009. Pre-tax operating profit totaled $2.1 billion, or 48 cents per share, a $1.1 billion improvement from third quarter 2009++

•Ford is announcing further actions to reduce Automotive debt and strengthen its balance sheet, including further paying down its revolving credit line by $2 billion; plans to use cash to fully prepay the remaining $3.6 billion of debt owed to the VEBA retiree health care trust; and conversion offers on two convertible debt securities

•Ford now expects its Automotive cash to be about equal to its debt by year end, earlier than previously expected. This will be an improvement of $8 billion to $9 billion from the end of last year

•Ford ended the quarter with $23.8 billion of Automotive gross cash and total liquidity of $29.4 billion. Automotive operating-related cash flow was $900 million positive

•Revenue for the quarter totaled $29 billion, a decline of $1.3 billion from third quarter 2009; excluding Volvo revenue from 2009, revenue increased $1.7 billion ++

•Ford Automotive operations posted a third quarter pre-tax operating profit of $1.3 billion, a $953 million improvement from third quarter 2009++

•Ford North America reported third quarter pre-tax operating profit of $1.6 billion, a $1.3 billion improvement from third quarter 2009

•Ford Credit reported third quarter pre-tax operating profit of $766 million, an $89 million improvement from third quarter 2009, and provided Ford with a $1 billion distribution during the quarter

•Ford will deliver solid profits in 2010 with positive Automotive operating-related cash flow, and continued improvement in 2011

Source: Ford

Ford Concept Cars Sold For Charity

2010-10-04T17:51:00.001-05:00

These cars are often the beginning of an idea.

Some are design exercises, others are proposals to gauge public interest. All of them draw a crowd.

Advertisement

Eighteen concept cars from Ford Motor Co. were auctioned off Thursday night in Monterey, Calif., as a fundraiser for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the Children's Center.

The three-day auction, open to the public and featuring 225 vehicles from around the world, began Thursday night. Ford raised nearly $1 million for charities.

"Concept cars serve as the auto industry's vision into the future, and we are thrilled to have the opportunity to showcase these vehicles at RM's Sports & Classics of Monterey," said Edsel B. Ford II, great-grandson of Ford's founder and a member of the company's board of directors.

Auctioning concept cars is not as rare as one might think, said Ford spokesman Robert Parker, who attended Thursday's auction. But "it's certainly not a common occurrence to do this many," he noted.

The highest price concept vehicle sold Thursday night was the 2006 Ford GT, which fetched $148,000, including the 10 percent buyer's fee.

"RM's all-Ford Thursday evening sale in Monterey presented the biggest single offering of concepts in the last 10 years," said RM car specialist Dan Warrener, who consigned the collection of Ford concept vehicles.

"All 18 of these automotive works of art found new homes and the prices realized were solid, especially considering the fact that they cannot be titled for use on public roads," he added.

Some concepts cannot be titled because they lack drivetrains and had to be pushed onto the auction block, Parker said.

The event in Monterey preceded the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, one of the most prestigious and expensive car shows in the world, which begins Sunday.

Source: The Detroit News

Amazing Race Team Tapped To Produce Ford Focus Reality Show

2010-10-04T17:33:00.002-05:00

Dearborn — Ford Motor Co. has tapped the team behind “The Amazing Race” to create a five-week online reality show to promote the features of the new 2012 Ford Focus coming in March.Focus Rally America will have six teams racing across the country in a rally that includes weekly challenges. The race will start about Feb. 1 and conclude as the new Focus arrives in showrooms.

The show, including live streaming of the race from inside the six cars, will be on the Hulu website as original content.

Contestants, being cast now, must have social network skills and big personalities.

The marketing effort builds on the Fiesta Movement that garnered attention for the 2011 Fiesta, which is on sale now.

Focus Rally America is designed to show off the connectivity features of the new Focus, including its navigation systems and ability to communicate online. Viewers will be encouraged to help their favorite team by sending messages to help them figure out clues along the way.

Source: The Detroit News

FIRST-EVER FORD POLICE INTERCEPTOR UTILITY DEBUTS, OFFERS PORTFOLIO OF CHOICE FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT

2010-09-01T20:41:00.002-05:00

Ford's Police Interceptor utility will deliver at least a 20 percent improvement in fuel-economy over the outgoing Crown Victoria Police Interceptor.

* Ford’s new Police Interceptor utility is designed to complement the sedan introduced earlier this year and give law enforcement agencies a comprehensive choice for pursuit vehicles

* The purpose-built sedan and utility Police Interceptors will deliver at least 20 percent better fuel economy than the current Crown Victoria Police Interceptor

* Ford’s utility and sedan Police Interceptors will debut simultaneously when production of the Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor ceases in late 2011

Chicago, Sept. 1, 2010 – Ford Motor Company today revealed its newest pursuit-rated vehicle – Ford’s first-ever specially designed Police Interceptor utility built for the rigors of police work.

The new vehicle is designed to complement Ford’s all-new Police Interceptor sedan, which was introduced earlier this year. Combined, the two vehicles provide law enforcement agencies the ultimate in versatility and choice, something no other police vehicle on the road today can match.

“We understand today’s police departments require adaptability,” said Mark Fields, Ford’s president of The Americas. “Ford is committed to remaining the nation’s largest provider of police vehicles, and we’re offering law enforcement officials a complete portfolio of options that are purpose-built, capable and delivered with the safety, technology and performance they need to excel at their jobs.”

Ford, the police vehicle market leader for 15 years, developed both Police Interceptors to allow departments to maximize versatility without sacrificing quality. Both vehicles will debut simultaneously and be offered without interruption when production of the Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor ends in late 2011.

Meeting a spectrum of needs

With the introduction of its newest Police Interceptor, Ford now provides a complete package of performance and capability designed to meet the diverse and ever-increasing needs of law enforcement agencies across the U.S.

Ford’s new Police Interceptor utility vehicle is equipped with the highly efficient 3.5-liter V6 engine. This Ti-VCT engine, delivering at least 280 horsepower and E85 compatibility, is mated to a unique six-speed automatic transmission that combines lowered initial gears for improved off-the-line acceleration and higher gearing for improved efficiency at lower engine rpm when cruising. Two drivetrain options are available, providing off-road capability teamed with a multipurpose cargo area specially calibrated for loads up to 800 pounds.

Both the sedan and utility are rated for the severe-duty cycle that police professionals undertake on a daily basis and will deliver at least 20 percent more fuel efficiency than the 4.6-liter single overhead cam (SOHC) V8 offered in the current Crown Victoria Police Interceptor.

Police input key to development

When developing the next-generation Police Interceptors, Ford worked with its Police Advisory Board of law enforcement professionals to provide input on key vehicle attributes such as safety, performance, durability, driver convenience and comfort.

“The combination of both the sedan and utility versions of the Police Interceptor allows Ford to deliver a complete, diverse and efficient solution to all of law enforcements’ pursuit needs,” said Ken Czubay, vice president of Marketing, Sales and Service. “These vehicles were developed step-by-step with our valuable Police Advisory Board, so we have had customer feedback throughout the development process and provided an efficient solution for fleet managers.”

Keeping it safe

Like the sedan, the utility version of the Police Interceptor puts a priority on safety. Continuing Ford’s safety leadership includes engineering both Police Interceptors to pass 75-mph rear-end crash testing. Currently, the Crown Victoria Police Interceptor is the only pursuit sedan to meet this test.

The Police Interceptor utility vehicle features Ford’s exclusive Safety Canopy® side-curtain airbag rollover protection system that helps protect passengers in both rollover and side-impact crashes. The multiple side-curtain airbags use Ford’s unique roll-fold technology to help position them between the occupant and the side window.

Staying in control

Unique to the utility vehicle is Ford’s state-of-the-art curve control technology, designed to help drivers maintain control of their vehicles when taking curves at high speeds. Curve control senses when a vehicle is entering a curve too quickly, and can apply four-wheel smart braking to reduce vehicle speed by up to 10 mph in approximately one second and help drivers follow their intended path.

Rigorously tested, police-tuned

Just like its sedan partner, Ford’s Police Interceptor utility vehicle has been put through its paces, undergoing a battery of torture tests to ensure its individual components can hold up to rigorous driving. Certification testing designed by the Michigan State Police and the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department proved out the durability and capability of the vehicle through a variety of punishing tracks.

To make sure the utility vehicle can take the heat – quite literally – the AWD drivetrain is equipped with a water-cooled power transfer unit that guarantees capability in all conditions. Across the board, brakes have been increased in size and performance, and the cooling package features a heavy-duty alternator and larger radiator. Standard 18-inch wheels are vented, designed to work in concert with the enhanced brake system.

Even so, the utility vehicle is light, precise and easy to handle. “Officers won’t need any special training to drive this,” said Carl Widmann, vehicle engineering manager. “The advanced technologies and similar driving dynamics of Ford’s new Police Interceptors provide officers the flexibility, convenience and ease of driving utility or sedan police vehicles.”

Functional, inside and out

Inside, the functionality continues, with the vehicle’s interior package uniquely designed for the needs of police, maximizing officer comfort and cargo capacity. The front seats are designed with a lower bolster to accommodate utility belts, and just like the sedan, Ford’s Police Interceptor utility offers a column shift, designed to leave the console area free for the ever-increasing amounts of equipment necessary for officers to do their jobs.

The second row features a vinyl, easy-to-clean bench seat that folds flat for versatility. Because police require a lot of gear, additional space in the utility provides plenty of room for K-9 officers and SWAT operations, including room for the full-size spare tire to be stored safely under the cargo area.

The new utility vehicle also features:

* Ford SYNC®: The Ford-exclusive, hands-free information system provides officers the ability to operate their various communication and audio equipment by voice control.
* BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System): The system uses two radar sensors located in the rear quarter panels to detect vehicles in the surrounding lanes. If a vehicle enters the driver’s blind spot zones, the system alerts the driver with a warning light in the sideview mirror.
* Cross-traffic alert: This system uses the existing BLIS radar modules to sense oncoming traffic when slowly backing out of a parking spot. This industry-exclusive system functions only while the vehicle is in reverse and warns when cross traffic appears within three car-widths.
* Rear view camera: When the vehicle is in rear camera mode, a color image with guidance markers on the rearview mirror will assist the driver in backing up.
* Reverse Sensing System: An audible tone will alert the driver to certain objects up to 6 feet behind the vehicle.
* Remappable steering wheel controls: Helping officers keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel, remappable steering wheel controls offer the police the flexibility to work specifically with police aftermarket equipment to customize voice-controlled lights and sirens at the push of a button.
* Standard AdvanceTrac® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control™): This system helps maintain the intended path by measuring side-to-side yaw, or skidding, by the vehicle’s speed, throttle position and steering wheel angle. When wheel slip is sensed, AdvanceTrac reduces engine torque and applies selected brakes.

Both Ford Police Interceptors will be manufactured at Ford’s Chicago Assembly Plant.

Source: Ford

Spied! 2011 Ford F-150 with EcoBoost V-6

2010-08-01T17:19:00.002-05:00

Ford is about half a year away from starting production of the first six-cylinder EcoBoost-equipped 2011 F-150 half-ton pickup, but our spies have caught a tester SuperCab FX4 model racking up the miles.

In the picture, you can see a turbo intercooler framed in the middle of the lower bumper.

The EcoBoost twin-turbo system runs at up to 1,740 degrees, according to Ford. An air-to-air intercooler is used to cool the compressed intake air before it enters the engine's combustion chamber, and water cooling protects the internal turbo bearings in the high-temperature operating environment. Using two turbochargers, rather than one larger one, helps fight turbo lag.

In an interesting reversal of tradition for trucks, it's expected that the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 (which also features direct injection) will be a premium engine for the light-duty F-150, along with the new 411-horsepower, 6.2-liter naturally aspirated gas V-8 that makes 434 pounds-feet of torque.

Ford has officially said the F-150's EcoBoost engine will arrive by late 2010 with improved fuel economy and low-end torque with a broad, diesel-like torque curve through most of its power band. Our sources say it will be rated at about 400 hp and more than 400 pounds-feet of torque. Gas mileage is expected to be at least 23 mpg on the highway.

What do you think? Would you buy the new EcoBoost V-6 or stick with a conventional V-8?

Source: Pickuptruck.com

The 2011 Ford Explorer

2010-07-26T12:28:00.013-05:00

Not such a big surprise after seeing so many spy pics for so long.

Finally, a modern Explorer.

Gone is the old "trucky truck", with that 70's wagon driving experience.

Source: Zimbio

AS STATES MULL BANS, FORD IMPROVES SYNC TO GIVE DRIVERS SAFER ALTERNATIVES TO HAND-HELD TEXTING

2010-07-20T02:13:00.002-05:00

MyFord Touch driver connect technology, launching on the 2011 Ford Edge, features a "Do Not Disturb" button for drivers to choose to have incoming phone calls and text messages blocked for the duration of their trip.

* Ford adds “Do Not Disturb” button to block incoming calls and texts on new MyFord Touch-equipped vehicles and proactive feature content “lock-outs” to encourage use of voice control

* In addition, Ford integrates new Bluetooth Message Access Profile (MAP) into SYNC for all MyFord Touch-equipped vehicles so more drivers can have texts read aloud to them while driving

* Research In Motion (RIM), maker of BlackBerry smartphones, plans to adopt MAP and enable SYNC audible text messaging capability to work with all new smartphones; Ford urges other phone manufacturers to follow

Video: Ford SYNC Reads SMS Text Messages (YouTube)

DEARBORN, Mich., July 8, 2010 – As the issue of texting while driving grows in prominence nationally, Ford Motor Company is expanding its SYNC technology with new features to give drivers safer alternatives to hand-held texting and keep them more focused on the road.

To help make the in-car connection safer, Ford is improving the SYNC text message readback feature and empowering drivers with a “Do Not Disturb” button so they can decide the level of connectivity and communications they want to manage while in the car. Ford is also taking the proactive step to “lock-out” capabilities that are not relevant to the task of driving while the vehicle is in motion.

“Text messaging has become the default communications method for consumers of all ages,” said John Schneider, chief engineer, Ford multimedia and infotainment engineering. “The power of SYNC voice control combined with Ford’s latest connectivity improvements will reduce the temptation to pick up the phone and take your eyes off the road, providing a safer solution for the use of mobile devices in the car.”

Ford believes drivers should keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel and was the first automaker to support a proposed federal ban and state-level legislation banning hand-held texting while driving. In turn, Ford also understands that drivers want to be connected to their mobile worlds while on the road, and texting continues to grow as a preferred communication method. According to a new poll from the Pew Internet and American Life Project, for example, approximately one in four (27%) American adults and driving age teens (26%) admit to texting while driving.

Ford will offer the new features on 2011 model year vehicles equipped with MyFord or MyLincoln Touch, the intuitive driver connect technology that provides drivers personalized access to information and entertainment through voice control, touch screens and familiar five-way controls mounted on the steering wheel.

Bluetooth MAP

Bluetooth is the standard technology that allows electronic devices such as a mobile phone and Ford SYNC to communicate with each other wirelessly. To improve the number of phones that can “communicate” with SYNC so the system can read aloud incoming text messages to drivers, Ford has adopted the latest Bluetooth standard – Message Access Profile (MAP).

“Today, only a small population of phones have the capability to work with the text message readback feature of SYNC,” added Schneider. “With MAP technology, even more drivers will be able to use SYNC to listen to text messages.”

Defined by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), the MAP standard outlines a set of features and procedures used to exchange email, SMS, and MMS messages between devices. It is tailored to the automotive hands-free environment where an onboard terminal device – in this case, SYNC – takes advantage of the messaging capability of a communications device, such as a BlackBerry smartphone.

The Bluetooth SIG recommendations are considered benchmarks, but they’re not industry requirements. Ford has elected to implement the MAP to signal support for the protocol and encourage additional mobile device manufacturers to add the capability in their products.

“It’s only through acceptance of common standards industry-wide that key technologies can be adapted to the in-vehicle environment,” said Schneider. “We’re hoping to encourage the adoption of MAP so more customers – and more mobile devices – can successfully use the innovative features SYNC has to offer, helping reduce the problem of driver distraction.”

According to a 100-car study conducted by Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, driver inattention that involved looking away from the road for more than a few seconds was a factor in nearly 80 percent of accidents. By providing drivers with the ability to receive audible, hands-free texts, Ford is hoping to help drivers focus on the task of driving.

Ford is already working with Research In Motion (RIM) and supports the company’s intention to begin implementing it in all new BlackBerry smartphones.

“RIM plans to implement MAP on BlackBerry smartphones moving forward and we are pleased to work with Ford in an effort to foster industry-wide adoption and standardization,” said Andrew Bocking, Vice President, Handheld Software Product Management at Research In Motion.

“Do Not Disturb” and locked features

Ford has also proactively designed the MyFord and MyLincoln Touch driver connect system to give drivers more control of how they manage communications while in the car. Screens can be personalized to display information relevant to an individual driver using a simple button click, voice command or touch-screen tap.

The new 2011 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX will be first to offer the “Do Not Disturb” button. This handy feature blocks incoming phone calls or text messages from a Bluetooth-enabled mobile phone paired with SYNC; diverting calls into voicemail and saving text messages on the device for viewing later. But unlike turning the phone off, drivers can still make voice-activated outgoing phone calls, if they so decide, and the SYNC 911 Assist feature can make a call to 911 in case of emergency.

In addition, Ford continues to limit access to a variety of communication features while the vehicle is in motion, thus encouraging drivers to use voice commands if they wish to access the function.

Ford is also taking the proactive step of locking out or limiting content and capabilities of MyFord Touch that are not related to the task of driving when the vehicle is in motion, for instance:

* Screens with information not intended to be used by the driver while driving such as point-of-interest reviews and ratings plus SIRIUS Travel Link sports scores, movie listings, and ski conditions

* Any action that requires typing on a keypad (e.g. typing a navigation destination, editing information)

* Limiting lists of navigation and phone choices that the user can view to fewer entries (e.g. phone contacts, recent phone call entries)

Specific functions that are locked out when the vehicle is in motion:

* Cell Phone
o Pairing a Bluetooth-capable phone
o Manually adding individual contacts into the Phonebook
o Viewing received text messages on screen
* WiFi Connectivity
o Web browsing on the vehicle screen
* Video/Photos/Graphics
o Playing video
o Album cover art and Phonebook photo browsing
o Editing photos
o Editing the screen’s wallpaper or adding a new one
* Navigation
o Destination entry by touchscreen keyboard input (voice entry is permissible)

Source: Ford

MUSTANG V-6 AVERAGES 48.5 MPG; RUNS 1,457 LAPS AT BRISTOL ON A SINGLE TANK OF GAS

2010-07-20T02:07:00.002-05:00

* The 2011 Ford Mustang V-6 sets a new record by averaging 48.5 mpg on a track while completing 1,457 laps with an average speed of 43.9 mph

* Mustang is powered by a new 3.7-liter V-6 engine that uses advanced engineering and technology to deliver great performance and fuel economy

* More than 51,000 entries were received for the Mustang 1,000 Lap Challenge with 22 entries guessing the winning number of laps

* A team of five drivers, including four Ford Mustang engineers and Ford NASCAR
star David Ragan, drove the Mustang during its record run

Mustang 1,000 Lap Challenge

BRISTOL, TN., June 24, 2010 – The 2011 Ford Mustang, which made history when it became the first car ever to deliver more than 30 mpg and 305 horsepower, has set a new record by running 1,457 laps at Bristol Motor Speedway while averaging 48.5 mpg.

The Mustang 1,000 Lap Challenge was designed to demonstrate that a stock production Mustang V-6 could run 1,000 laps and 533 miles on a single of tank of fuel. With the aid of fuel efficient driving techniques by Ford engineers, the Mustang far surpassed its goal of 1,000 laps.

“To see a Mustang post average fuel economy of 48.5 mpg while running at Bristol is impressive,” said Dave Pericak, Mustang chief engineer. “The new V-6 engine along with the advanced six-speed transmission in the car is a key element in delivering both fuel economy and performance for Mustang.”

Ford is committed to being a fuel economy leader in every segment it competes in and Mustang’s leads in its class along with other Ford fuel economy leaders like the Ford Fiesta, Fusion Hybrid and new Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, America’s most fuel efficient luxury sedan.

The Challenge team, which included NASCAR star David Ragan and four Ford Mustang engineers, completed the challenge in 17 hours and 40 minutes, showing off the 2011 Mustang V-6’s class-leading fuel economy by averaging 48.5 mpg over the course of the 776.5 miles logged during the Challenge. That distance is more than the two complete NASCAR Sprint Cup events that take place in Bristol every year.

Ragan pushed the Mustang past the 1,000-lap mark at 7:26 p.m., 12 hours and 26 minutes into the Challenge, but the car wasn’t close to being out of fuel. Mustang engineer Seong Park was behind the wheel when it finally came to a halt (on the backstretch) of the famed NASCAR track at 12:41 a.m. local time.

Other Mustang Challenge team drivers included Tom Barnes, Jonathan Mehl and Carl Ek, who along with Park, rotated through one-hour driving stints during the event, which took place at the world’s fastest half-mile track.

“When we hit 1,000 laps we still had a quarter of a tank of gas left,” said David Ragan, driver of the No. 6 UPS Ford Fusion for Roush Fenway Racing, and the man who drove the 2011 V-6 Mustang past the 1,000 lap mark. “The last driving stint before I passed 1,000 laps I was averaging 43.7 miles a gallon and that is unbelievable. These guys have run the distance of more than two Sprint Cup races at Bristol and they still have fuel left. Congratulations to everyone behind the Mustang and to everyone at Ford, because this 2011 Mustang V-6 is really something special.”

A team of Ford engineers prepared for the challenge by implementing fuel efficient driving tips like minimizing the use of air conditioning, steady and consistent driving, avoiding sudden stops/starts and by keeping the RPMs low. The engine in the Mustang is powered by a lightweight, all-aluminum 3.7-liter dual-overhead-cam (DOHC) V-6 engine that uses advanced engineering to deliver its combination of power and economy. Twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) adjusts the valve train in microseconds depending on driver inputs, further contributing to the engine’s overall efficiency. The Mustang used in the challenge is a stock production vehicle that can be purchased through a Ford dealer.

“This is beyond our wildest dreams,” said Tom Barnes, the lead engineer for the Ford Mustang 1,000 Lap Challenge. “There have been a lot of people who have done a lot of things in preparing this 2011 Mustang V-6 to run the Mustang 1,000 Lap Challenge and have the success we have had today. It was great when we went past the 1,000 lap mark with David, but nobody could ever imagine that we still had five hours ahead of us. This is a fantastic feeling and it shows again what a great car the 2011 Mustang V-6 is.”

More than 51,000 consumers registered their guesses for the event at www.mustang1000lapchallenge.com. One lucky consumer that correctly guessed 1,457 laps will be randomly drawn from all correct entries and will win their own 2011 Mustang V-6.

Source: Ford

2011 FORD EXPLORER WITH ECOBOOST LEADS SEGMENT; AT LEAST 30 PERCENT BETTER FUEL ECONOMY

2010-07-20T02:04:00.001-05:00

* All-new Ford Explorer SUV offers best-in-class fuel economy with technologically advanced powertrains featuring multiple enhancements to improve mechanical efficiency
* Explorer offers an optional 2.0-liter EcoBoost™ I-4 engine delivering V6 power with four-cylinder fuel efficiency
* Electric power-assisted steering, battery management, fast engine warm-up and the first North American Ford application of a variable-displacement air conditioning compressor all combine to improve drivability, increase efficiency and save fuel.

DEARBORN, Mich., July 19, 2010 – The Ford Explorer has been reinvented to shatter long-held myths about SUV fuel efficiency and performance.

The 2011 model equipped with an optional 2.0-liter EcoBoost™ I-4 engine will be the new class leader in the mid-size SUV segment, achieving at least a 30 percent increase in fuel efficiency compared with the current V-6-powered Explorer.

“The all-new Explorer will give a huge universe of existing and prospective customers the capability they expect and the luxury and convenience they want, all combined with the fuel economy they need,” said Mark Fields, Ford president of The Americas.

The new Explorer, due in Ford showrooms later this year, has added comfort and convenience features, while overall vehicle weight is reduced compared to the previous model. Extensive use of lighter and stronger high-strength steels such as boron add durability while saving weight. An aluminum hood is used, while a one-piece composite front bolster – the radiator support between engine and grille – is 65 percent lighter. Lighter weight equates to fuel and money saved.

Sophisticated engine controls and advanced technologies are key contributors to the Explorer’s improved fuel economy. Electric power-assisted steering, battery management, fast engine warm-up and aggressive deceleration fuel shutoff all combine to improve drive dynamics and save fuel. Explorer also features the first North American Ford application of a variable-displacement air conditioning compressor that reduces parasitic engine drag.

See how the all-new Explorer is being put to the test in a series of on- and off-road tests designed to drive quality and fuel economy improvements.

Powertrain advancements like twin independent variable camshaft timing and six-speed automatic transmissions help Explorer deliver responsive performance when needed combined with low-rpm efficiency when cruising.

SUV buyers placing highest priority on fuel economy can choose the available EcoBoost I-4. Delivering the power of a normally aspirated V6, this advanced engine pairs a turbocharger with direct gasoline injection to provide SUV buyers with projected class-leading fuel economy – pending EPA certification – with no compromise in performance.

Finally, all of these fuel economy enhancements are wrapped in a smooth, distinctive Explorer design that was extensively refined in wind tunnel testing. Designers and aerodynamicists collaborated to reshape sideview mirrors and harmonize the front air dam with the rear liftgate spoiler to significantly increase fuel efficiency on the highway. Reduced wind noise at speed is an incremental benefit.

“Explorer owners told us they want capability with convenience, and improved fuel economy without compromised performance,” Fields said. “We believe we’ve hit the mark with the next-generation Explorer. It has the potential to change perceptions of what a modern SUV is all about.”

Source: Ford

1960 Ford Starliner

2010-07-14T17:30:00.003-05:00

Click Here for More photos at: Hot Rods Custom Stuff

Hot Rods And Custom Stuff

2010-07-14T17:24:00.001-05:00

Click Here To check out this website.

1941 Ford Deluxe

2010-07-01T12:56:00.001-05:00

1941 Ford Deluxe 2 door sedan. Beautifully restored to factory condition from a nice original car. Comes with radio, heater, fog lights, spot lights and fender skirts.

Source: Almeida's Classic Cars

1934 Ford V-8 Pickup

2010-07-01T12:52:00.003-05:00

1934 Ford V-8 pickup. Body off restoration on this beautiful little truck which still has it's original numbers matching V-8 engine. Original beige & black color scheme.

Source: Almeida's Classic Cars

Rare Year And Rare "P" Code Car

2010-07-01T12:46:00.001-05:00

1956 Ford

RARE YEAR AND RARE "P" CODE CAR! The "P" stands for the factory 312 cubic inch Thunderbird motor! Automatic transmission. Black/pink exterior. Continental kit.

Source: American Classic Autos

Can Automatic Car Washes Damage Your Car?

2010-07-01T12:40:00.001-05:00

Automatic/drive-through car washes are more popular than ever because they save time and hassle.

But are automatic car washes safe for your car? In fact, in many instances, they are the "safest" course of action for many car owners who want to keep their car clean.

In fact, automatic car washes can be safer for your car's finish than washing your car yourself because do-it-yourselfers sometimes don't use enough water to safely remove dirt; or they wash the car in direct sunlight -- which can burn spots in the paint. Or they use the wrong type of soap -- such as dishwashing detergent, which removes protective wax and leaves a chalky residue on the finish. Or any one of several common mistakes can end up doing more harm than good.

Cars by the numbers:

3 Most Popular Muscle Cars6 Cheap Cars with Great Gas Mileage10 Fastest Sports CarsKeeping your car clean and the finish looking good can also mean higher resale value when it comes time to get a new car. All else being equal, a car with faded paint and a dingy overall look sells for 10-20 percent less than an otherwise identical vehicle that just looks nicer.

So how often should you have your vehicle washed? That depends on how quickly it gets dirty -- and how dirty it gets. For some cars, once a month or so is sufficient -- especially if the car is lightly used and kept in a garage. But some cars will need a bath more often -- especially those that are parked outdoors where they're exposed to bird droppings, tree sap and so on, or driven in areas with very long/severe winters, where the roads are salted when it snows.

Here are a few important things to keep in mind when it comes to automatic car washes:

Be sure it's "brushless" -- Some older car washes still use abrasive brushes (instead of cloth), which can leave small scratches in a car's finish. On older cars with so-called "single stage" paint jobs, light scratches could usually be buffed out; but all modern cars use a "base/clear" system with a thin, transparent layer of clear coat on top of the underlying color coat to provide the shine. Once the thin clear coat is damaged, often the only way to restore the shine is to repaint the damaged area.

Another safe bet is "touchless" car washes that use only high-pressure water jets and detergents to clean the car -- without physically touching it at all. There is virtually no chance of your vehicle suffering any cosmetic damage this way. Some areas have "self-service" coin-operated hand washes, which are great for spraying away heavy dirt buildup. You'll usually need to bring your own bucket, wash cloth/sponge and dry towels, though.

Watch out for the after-wash wipe-down -- Most drive-through washes use a strong jet of heated air to force excess water off after the car goes through the wash. Many full-service car washes will then have you drive the car (or drive it for you, in some cases) away from the wash area to be hand-wiped by attendants. This is usually OK -- provided the attendants are using fresh, clean (and soft) towels to do so. Be alert on busy days, when lots of other cars have gone ahead of you. If you see the attendants using obviously dirty old rags to wipe the car down, you should say "thanks, but no thanks" -- and drive away wet. Dirt and other abrasives in the rags can scratch the finish just like sandpaper. Simply driving away from the wash and letting air flow over the car to dry any remaining water won't hurt anything -- and is the best guarantee of a no-damage experience. Any lingering streaks can easily be cleaned up at home yourself using readily available spray cleaners designed for just this purpose. (Honda Pro Spray Cleaner & Polish is excellent for this; it also provides UV protection and easily and safely cleans off bugs, tar and road grime, etc. without water.)

Hold off on the extras -- A "works" car wash can cost twice as much as the basic wash, but you may not be getting twice the wash for your money. Undercarriage rustproofing, for example, is of dubious value. Effective rustproofing is applied to brand-new metal, in order to seal it from contact with external corrosives such as road salt. Most new cars are extensively rustproofed at the factory during the assembly process; further "treatment" is superfluous -- and a money-waster.

On the other hand, if the wash offers an undercarriage bath, it may be worth the additional cost. Jets of water sprayed directly underneath the car can break loose accumulated crud that would be difficult (and unpleasant) to try to remove yourself using a garden hose. It's also important that underbody drainage holes not be obstructed by mud and other buildup; accumulated moisture can accelerate rust or (in the case of the air conditioning system) lead to the formation of mold in the system. The undercarriage bath should help keep those drain holes clear.

Do, however, think twice about spray-on wax. This typically adds at least a couple bucks to the cost of the wash and while it doesn't hurt anything, it's no substitute for hand-applied polish/wax. Spray-on "wax" may provide a short-term gloss enhancement, but doesn't protect against UV sun damage the way hand-applied wax does. Ditto the cost of having an attendant spray Armor All (or a similar protectant) on your tires to make them shiny. The cost for this extra can be equivalent to the cost of buying an entire bottle of the stuff on your own.

Wheel and tire cleaning is an exception; the heavy-duty cleaners used by the car wash do a great job of removing baked-on brake dust, etc., that can otherwise be a real chore to clean on your own, using over-the-counter cleaners, a hand brush and a hose. It's especially important to keep aluminum alloy wheels clean; brake dust can eventually permanently stain them if it's not regularly cleaned away.

Finally:

Make sure your car's OK before you leave -- While many car washes will have a disclaimer posted that they are "not responsible for any damages that may occur" as a result of running your car through their wash, that doesn't mean you should automatically absolve them of any damage their equipment or personnel may have caused. If you notice something, ask to see the manager and point it out to him; whether "legally liable" or not, he may offer to fix the problem in the interest of customer relations. And even if he does not, you can still pursue the matter with a higher-up (such as the company headquarters, if the wash is a franchise, as many associated with big-name gas stations often are). If you have a cell phone with a camera, use it to take a photo of the damage in order to support your claim. And it ought to go without saying that you should never leave your purse or other valuables in the car if you use a wash where an attendant will have access to the vehicle's interior.

Source: Autos.aol

Four Newest Trends For Car Thieves

2010-06-12T09:51:00.001-05:00

1. Odometer Fraud

Amid so many technological advances, the full digitization of the dashboard has had an effect on odometers. Odometer rollbacks are "back in a big way," said Christopher Basso of Carfax. "There is widespread use of digital odometers. People are getting software off the internet rather than cracking open the dash and hand-cranking back the odometer. It's harder to detect as there are no physical signs the vehicle has been tampered with."

Odometer rollbacks increased 57 percent from 2004-2008 (the last year for which data is available), with more than 450,000 cases reported annually. Over the last five years there's been a nearly 60 percent increase in the number of vehicles reported with odometer rollbacks, Basso says. The number of unreported cases -- where a consumer is unaware there is a problem -- is potentially much higher.

"It is a big and growing problem that continues to plague used-car buyers," said Basso.

But Frank Scafidi, of the National Insurance Crime Bureau, says rolling back odometers "is not as easy as it used to be."

"It happens here or there but it is not the predominant cause of auto fraud. Just like making moonshine, you're still going to find people somewhere doing it because they know how to do it. It's just now most people prefer to get their alcohol at a liquor store."

Poll
Have you been the victim of a vehicle break in?
Yes
No

2. Car Cloning

Scafidi says one of the newest auto frauds is "car cloning." Cloning occurs when multiple (usually higher-end) cars of the same model are stolen and registered with a VIN number from a legitimate vehicle.

"The thieves go get a VIN number from a showroom floor and reproduce it three or four times and attach it to the stolen vehicles and then ship them to four or five states," said Scafidi. "The multiple VIN numbers for us are the biggest red flags out there, and we go get 'em."

The FBI says that car-cloning rings -- often established for decades -- operate in most major cities nationwide. While there is no way to calculate true rates of car cloning, the FBI says it constitutes a "significant percentage" of vehicle thefts, the value of which totaled $6.4 billion in 2008. The agency recommends always buying your car from a reputable dealership and checking your car's VIN number with your state's licensing agency before you buy.

Common warning signs that you may have bought a cloned car include receiving unpaid traffic tickets you haven't sustained; a model being sold for much less than buyer's guides indicate it should be; scratches or evidence of tampering on the car's VIN number on the door frame or engine block; or a missing vehicle history report.

Terri Miller, director of Michigan's Halt Auto Theft program, says: "We're seeing a lot of cloning. They'll go to a scapyard and buy a clean title and they can then use that number on a vehicle of the same make and model."

3. Component theft and resale

With car stereos -- traditionally the item most stolen from cars -- getting harder to pilfer as a result of electronic security measures, thieves are getting more inventive.

Nationally, more than 75,000 airbags are stolen every year, according to the FBI. Thefts of GPS and DVD systems are increasing alongside the popularity of the devices among aftermarket buyers. Thefts of xenon headlights are also a growing problem. The advantage (or disadvantage) of component theft: The goods often are difficult to track and usually there's a fairly constant demand for them.

Miller says component theft is "the biggest thing. As cars are getting harder to steal, they have to steal parts of them. We're seeing easily fenced items such as tires, rims and GPS units getting stolen."

She says many items end up being sold online or on the street. In many cases buyers may think they're buying a legitimate product rather than a stolen part. She says that criminal enterprises, like legitimate businesses, mainly work on the basis of supply and demand.

"Occasionally, when, for example, Ford Taurus airbags are on back order, we'll see an increase in thefts."

4. Carjackings

You may think that carjackings had gone the way of spinning rims, but rates are holding steady in Southern California and increasing in Michigan. And there are pockets of America urban areas where the trend never really died down.

Officer Canales of the Los Angeles Police Department's Rampart Division says carjacking is still "pretty common."

"We get a few every now and then, usually a gun or knife is involved. It can be anything from high-value to low-value [cars] but we see more Hondas -- Accords and Civics -- and Toyotas."

Carjackings occur most frequently in urban areas and account for about three percent of all thefts, the Insurance Information Institute reports.

"A co-worker of my husband last week was carjacked outside a pizza parlor," Miller said. "He pointed a gun and said, 'You know what I want,' and drove off in his brand-new Mustang.

"Most carjackings involve a weapon so we always advise motorists to hand over their keys before they become a statistic," Miller says.

Where You Live Is As Important As What You Drive

A motor vehicle is stolen in the United States every 33 seconds, according to the FBI. In 2008, most vehicles -- or 37.8 percent, were stolen in the South, followed by the West at 33.9 percent, the Midwest at 18.3 percent and the Northeast at 10 percent. But thefts are decreasing by about 12 percent year on year for the last five years.

"Thefts follow technology," said Scafidi. "Smart keys or digital security devices are playing a big part in the reduction."

Source: Aol Autos

Willow Run Bomber Plant

2010-06-07T11:37:00.002-05:00

Thought you would be interested in this, Ford build Willow Run Ariport and I-94(it was not called I-94 ) but was built for the workers to get there.

A Bit of World War II History.

Willow Run is near Bellville, Canton and Ypsilanti, Michigan.

It's amazing that one B-24, with over a million parts, came off the assembly line every 55 minutes.

This is a great snapshot of history, a tribute to the greatest generation and American industrial power.

Source: Youtube

Fordlândia

2010-06-06T02:07:00.004-05:00

A dilapidated building from Fordlandia

Fordlândia ("Ford-land") is a now-abandoned, prefabricated industrial town established in the Amazon Rainforest in 1928 by American industrialist Henry Ford for the purpose of securing a source of cultivated rubber for the automobile manufacturing operations of the Ford Motor Company in the United States. Ford had negotiated a deal with the Brazilian government granting his newly formed Companhia Industrial do Brasil a concession of 10,000 km² of land on the banks of the Rio Tapajós near the city of Santarém, Brazil, in exchange for a nine percent interest in the profits generated.

History and decline

Ford intended to use Fordlândia to provide his company with a source of rubber for the tires on Ford cars, avoiding the dependence on British (Malayan) rubber. The land was hilly, rocky and infertile. None of Ford's managers had the requisite knowledge of tropical agriculture. The rubber trees, packed closely together in plantations, as opposed to being widely spaced in the jungle, were easy prey for tree blight and insects, a problem avoided by the Asian rubber plantations where transplanted Amazonian rubber trees faced no such natural predators. The mostly indigenous workers on the plantations, given unfamiliar food such as hamburgers and forced to live in American-style housing, disliked the way they were treated — they had to wear ID badges, and to work midday hours under the tropical sun — and would often refuse to work. In 1930, the native workers revolted against the managers, many of whom fled into the jungle for a few days until the Brazilian Army arrived and the revolt ended.

A typical Fordlandia house

Ford forbade alcohol and tobacco within the town, including inside the workers' own homes. The inhabitants circumvented this prohibition by paddling out to merchant riverboats moored beyond town jurisdiction and a settlement was established five miles upstream on the "Island of Innocence" with bars, nightclubs and brothels.

Failure

The government of Brazil was suspicious of any foreign investments, particularly in the northern Amazonia region, and offered little help. Ford tried again, relocating downstream to Belterra where better weather conditions to grow rubber existed, but by 1945, synthetic rubber was developed, dampening the worldwide demand for natural rubber. Ford's investment opportunity dried up overnight without producing any rubber for Ford's tires, making Fordlândia a total disaster. In 1945, his grandson Henry Ford II sold it for a loss of over $20 million. Despite repeated invitations from residents and periodic promises to do so, Henry Ford never actually visited his ill-fated jungle city.

Cultural references

Singer/songwriter Kate Campbell has memorialized Fordlândia and its spectacular failure as a modern-day parable on her 2008 album "Save the Day." Sung with fellow folk artist Nanci Griffith and co-written by Kate Campbell and Walt Aldridge, the title of the cut is simply Fordlandia. The lyrics incorporate many of the historical facts, including the failure of the project to export a single drop of latex back to the U.S., and the failed method of rubber tree planting.

Additionally, in November 2008, Icelandic composer Jóhann Jóhannsson released an album entitled Fordlândia. On his official website, Jóhannsson explained the album's relation to the Henry Ford-owned location:

One of the two main threads running through it is this idea of failed utopia, as represented by the "Fordlândia" title - the story of the rubber plantation Henry Ford established in the Amazon in the 1920’s, and his dreams of creating an idealized American town in the middle of the jungle complete with white picket fences, hamburgers and alcohol prohibition. The project – started because of the high price Ford had to pay for the rubber necessary for his cars’ tyres – failed, of course, as the indigenous workers soon rioted against the alien conditions.

Links:

D Interesting

Fordlandia

NPR

Source: Wikipedia

Kingsford Charcoal

2010-06-06T01:04:00.004-05:00

Kingsford is a brand of charcoal used for grilling, along with related products. The brand is owned by The Clorox Company.

The Kingsford Company was formed by Henry Ford and E.G. Kingsford during the early 1920s. Charcoal was developed from Ford Motor Company's factory wastes (wood scraps). The Kingsford Company was formed when E.G. Kingsford, a relative of Ford's, brokered the site selection for Ford's new charcoal manufacturing plant. The company, originally called Ford Charcoal, was renamed in E.G.’s honor.

Kingsford Charcoal is made from Charred softwoods, pine, spruce etc. then mixed with ground coal and other ingredients to make a charcoal briquette.

Today The Kingsford Products Company remains the leading manufacturer of charcoal in the U.S., enjoying 80 percent market share. More than 1 million tons of wood scraps are converted into charcoal briquets every year, making Kingsford the pacesetter in the charcoal industry. All Kingsford charcoal products are manufactured in an environmentally-conscious way – whether it’s converting wood waste into useful fuels, reusing combustion gases to generate heat for use in production water or containing process water to be reused for the next batch of charcoal.

And has been since the 1920s, when Henry Ford learned of a process for turning wood scraps from the production of Model T's into charcoal briquets. He built a charcoal plant, and the rest is history.

The Kingsford Company was formed when E.G. Kingsford, a relative of Ford's, brokered the site selection for Ford's new charcoal manufacturing plant. The company, originally called Ford Charcoal, was renamed Kingsford® Charcoal in his honor.

Today, the Kingsford Products Company remains the leading manufacturer of charcoal in the U.S. More than 1 million tons of wood scraps are converted into quality charcoal briquets every year.

Barbequing with charcoal has become immensely popular since Ford's time, and even today, more people prefer the taste of charcoal-grilled food to gas. *

Source: Wikipedia

The "Ford Plantation"

2010-06-06T00:58:00.010-05:00

The Ford Plantation is a private, gated community and sporting club located at 12511 Ford Avenue, Richmond Hill, Georgia, approximately 18 miles southwest of the City of Savannah. Its 1,800 acres include nearly a mile of deep water frontage on the Ogeechee River which twists and turns and ultimately empties out into the Atlantic Ocean, 14 miles downstream. The Ford Plantation is located just south of Richmond Hill on Highway 144, and is approximately 15 miles via I-95 from Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport.

This picture was taken from the Ford Plantation. This is the beautiful Ogeechee River.

Bryan County is filled with these gorgeous live oaks.

Historic Bryan Neck Presbyterian Church was rebuilt in 1885. The church had burned in 1882. The manse was built by Henry Ford in a property trade with the church.

This is the home that Henry Ford built for himself. It is located in South Bryan at the Ford Plantation. Ford purchased the Hermitage Plantation in Savannah and used the bricks (Savannah 'greys', made at the plantation in the early 1800s) to build his house. Finished in 1938, Mrs. Ford had her Southern-style plantation house where she could grow a lawn and cultivate roses. Today, the house is used as a private Inn and meeting place for property owners at the new Ford Plantation.

This caboose is located in Pembroke to remind us of Pembroke's early days as a railroad town.

This is the old Pembroke Hotel.

Richmond Hill has a history that mirrors that of our nation: Exploration, Indian and Colonial settlements, the American Revolution, the War Between the States, Henry Ford Era, and recent military conflicts.

For centuries, the Guale people inhabited the shores of the Ogeechee River, enjoying the plentiful seafood and temperate climate. Spanish exploration in the late 1500s led to English settlement by 1792.

Prosperous rice plantations in the area were the "breadbasket" of the South, but the Civil War shifted this prosperity into poverty almost overnight. Fort McAllister, built in 1862 is one of our significant historical sites (now a Georgia state park). Originally the fort was built to protect Savannah's "back door.” Civil War buffs will tell you about the incredible stand the Rebels made against a new Yankee weapon, the ironclad, in the first sea-land battles in which this new class of warship was used. Nine distinct battles were fought involving the fort, including the final battle of General Sherman's March to the Sea, which ended in Bryan County.

Devastated after Sherman's March to the Sea in 1864, the desperate years of 1865-1925 found nearly 80 percent of county residents living at the poverty level, with malaria and moonshine dominating people's lives and livelihoods. An economic shot in the arm came when Henry Ford and his wife Clara visited Ways Station, as the town was then known, looking for a winter retreat. They built their winter estate on Sterling Bluff and set about erasing the impoverishment of Ways Station over the next 22 years. Ford’s philanthropic initiative saved Fort McAllister and enabled the fort to be reconstructed, and preserved for all to enjoy.

Eventually, Ford bought 85,000 acres, drained the swamps, constructed a sawmill, subsidized health care, built schools, a church, commissary, trade school, community house, and homes for his 600 employees. Ways Station was one of the most impoverished areas of Georgia. Ford sought to improve the quality of life and ultimately built 272 buildings on his property. With friends Thomas Edison and Harvey Firestone, Ford formed the Edison Botanic Society and conducted laboratory experiments, attempting to turn agricultural products into goods useful to the auto industry.

Ford Farms transformed former rice fields into fields of fine iceberg lettuce and grew 365 varieties of soybeans, testing their properties for extracting rubber. In 1941, the town was renamed Richmond Hill after Ford's estate. The Fords gave this small village a 20th-century rebirth through their philanthropic efforts, transforming the backwater town of Ways Station into a vibrant community with new schools and employment opportunities.

Today most of our historic resources are associated with the Henry Ford Era. Richmond Hill has been recognized and awarded as a Preserve America Community for preserving American heritage by the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, the U.S. Department of the Interior, the U.S. Department of Commerce, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development on behalf of First Lady Laura Bush.

Most historic resources in Richmond Hill are associated with the Henry Ford Era. There are three types of properties related to the philanthropic and development activities of Henry Ford. There are the residential structures constructed for the employees of Henry Ford, commercial structures which were financed by Ford and the institutional buildings which housed religious, educational, and civic activities. Roughly 25 structures are being preserved with the intention of being listed on the National Registry. Some of the resources are just at the 50 year age requirement for eligibility for the National Registry Nomination. This includes:

Bryan County Court House
Community House
Martha-Mary Chapel
Richmond Hill School Teacherage
Commissary
Cannan Baptist Church
Kindergarten Building
Richmond Hill Plantation, currently on the National Registry

In 1939, Ways Station was renamed to Richmond Hill in honor of the Ford’s winter residence. The city was incorporated in 1962 with boundaries that contain approximately 3,720-acres. Subsequent annexations have almost doubled the current city size (6,535-acres). The county is physically divided by the Fort Stewart Military Reservation. Created prior to World War II, Fort Stewart occupies almost 109,000-acres of central Bryan County. Richmond Hill is located in the southern portion of Bryan County and is home to many soldiers and their families – the county’s fastest growing city.

Today Richmond Hill serves as a quiet family community, located just minutes from metropolitan Savannah. The city of more than 10,000 residents retains the small town charm. Richmond Hill has a great deal to offer to its residents; a diminished crime rate, outstanding educational opportunities, community services, recreational facilities, and beautiful scenery. This community has infinite potential. Richmond Hill offers relief from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

Quality growth and teamwork characterize Richmond Hill’s success. Southeast Georgia is one of the hottest business and residential growth areas in the country. Local businesses are aware of the unrivaled location advantages and the pro-business, pro-growth mentality of the local government. Richmond Hill borders the Fort Stewart Military Reservation and serves as home to many soldiers and their families. Families are aware the school system is top notch and the Board of Education is producing quality results. The schools continually exceed state standards and rank in the top 5% in SAT scores. Community involvement is evident in the motivated Parent Teacher Student Organizations. Neighborhood associations take pride in their neighborhoods and maintain the appearance. The Chamber of Commerce and the Convention and Visitors Bureau play an active role in the community as well as other active civic organizations. These partnerships enable the city and local businesses to work together towards effective growth. Citizen participation and community collaboration have led to creative solutions on development issues, prevention programs for the youth, and greater community understanding of good planning and investment.

The history of The Ford Plantation mirrors the history of this country. The plantation played important roles in the Revolutionary War, the Civil War and the industrial revolution. And it continues to play a prominent role in American society today as one of our premier Private Club Communities.

In 1733, General James Oglethorpe established the Colony of Georgia, named for King George II of England, and laid out its first city, Savannah. He barred slavery, rum and lawyers, seeing all three as contrary to the best interests of the new English settlement.

One of the earliest grants made by Oglethorpe was for 2,000 acres on the Ogeechee River at Sterling Bluff where present-day Ford Plantation sits. The grant was made to Hugh and William Sterling. The Sterlings ultimately abandoned the grant, the land passing to John Harn, who named it Dublin Plantation and began cultivating rice. In 1747, Harn planted the now massive live oaks that form the letter “H” at the entrance to The Ford Plantation.

After the Revolution and throughout the 1800s, rice cultivation at Dublin and Silk Hope Plantations reached new heights and fortunes were made.

The good times ended with the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861, when the Union blockaded the coasts of South Carolina and Georgia. Robert E. Lee, later Commander of the Army of Northern Virginia, served as the Commander of the Military Departments of the Coasts of South Carolina, Georgia and East Florida. Lee oversaw the construction of Fort McAllister at Genesis Point near Savannah, to protect the Confederacy’s “breadbasket.” It survived numerous attacks by naval forces, only to be destroyed in 1864 when General William Tecumseh Sherman conducted his “March to the Sea.”

In the early 1900s, the booming rice economy crashed, planters moved away and plantations fell into disrepair. It was at this time in 1923 that a stranger from Michigan unexpectedly appeared. Henry Ford, the world’s first billionaire, headed enterprises that included assembly plants, coal and iron mines, timber holdings, railroads, freighters and aircraft manufacturing, and employed more than 500,000 men. With the influence of his friends Harvey Firestone and Thomas Edison, Ford developed a keen interest in coastal Georgia – first as a place to grow rubber; then because it was home to an innovative school which Ford supported to the tune of $4 million; and, finally, because it had “a better climate and was a better place to winter than Florida.”

Ford started purchasing land, and when he finished he had accumulated 70,000 acres covering 120 square miles. He called his estate Richmond Hill. Addressing social and economic problems of the area gave Ford his greatest satisfaction and provided him with an escape from things that distressed him.

“Helping the people,” he said, “is my religion.” He championed causes to improve health care and education. He brought in doctors and nurses. He built clinics. He enlarged schools and brought in new educational equipment, libraries, movie projectors, radios, athletic equipment and most of all teachers. He built community houses and chapels.

In 1936, Ford broke ground for a beautiful Greek Revival style mansion of Savannah-gray brick with marble steps on the banks of the Ogeechee River. It featured a colossal portico and sweeping “Temple of the Winds” columns on both the front and river sides. The grand house had air conditioning and an elevator. It sat on 55 acres of manicured lawns and flowering gardens. It remains the centerpiece of The Ford Plantation today.

Ford’s ever-present birdhouses were tucked in appropriate places. He forbade hunting and before long deer and wild hogs began to abound and even wild turkeys became tame and frequented the lawn during the day. Steam plants and tunnels interlaced the estate, with a power plant located at the rice mill which had been left in ruins by General Sherman.

Ford suggested the entire town be renamed Richmond Hill and the town’s people eagerly agreed. The house became the center of social gatherings with visitations by the Vanderbilts, Rockefellers and the DuPonts.

Clara and Henry Ford made their last trip to Richmond Hill in the spring of 1947. Ford had suffered a stroke and returned to Dearborn on Easter Sunday, April 6. He died the next day at the age of 83.

Custom Ford Truck

2010-06-03T00:47:00.002-05:00

A 1950 Ford Convertible

2010-06-03T00:44:00.002-05:00

The Model T Assembly Line

2010-05-24T12:53:00.002-05:00

"This is a great video showing the first assembly lines at the original Ford auto plant. Neat to see those guys making the old wooden wheels, by hand mostly... The places that car could go...is amazing!"

Source: Youtube

First Test Drive Of 2011 Ford Raptor

2010-05-10T13:35:00.000-05:00

Raptor Attack in the Desert: Is Ford's New 411-Horsepower V-8 Worth an Extra $3000? Oh, Yes...

We're sideways at maybe 70 mph and I see the washout looming on the right. It's only two feet wide, but from where I'm sitting, it looks like the Grand Canyon rushing toward us-dark and deep, with jagged edges carved by recent heavy rain. This is going to get ugly.

Gene Martindale deftly flicks the truck back to the right at the last second, roostertails of sand spitting from the rear tires as he kicks the beast in the belly and unleashes 411 angry horses. I see what he's doing: The washout abruptly peters out on the left, and now he's trying to unload the suspension on the right hand side. Even so, this is going to be a big hit. I brace myself, and...there's a muted thud, a sharp but not uncomfortable vertical movement, then...that's it. The sparkling-blue Ford F-150 SVT Raptor barely breaks stride as SVT development engineer-and Baja racer-Martindale races for the far horizon.

Ford's F-150 Raptor is the Porsche 911 GT3 of pickup trucks. Like a 911 GT3, the Raptor is a racebred piece of machinery you can drive every day on the street. Okay, the GT3's reflexes were honed in the green hell of the legendary Nurburgring Nordschliefe road course in Germany. The Raptor, meanwhile, was developed on the stony desert tracks, powdery sand washes, and bone-jarring whoopdies of Baja California. Point the Raptor down a rough desert track, and this thing will go as fast as you dare, without turning into a dribbling mess, out of breath and out of brakes, after a dozen miles or so. And it'll make you feel like a born racer.

Just like a 911 GT3.

The Raptors are built using the biggest brakes and strongest half-shafts in the F-150parts bin, along with the heavy-duty rear axle. Engineers at SVT, Ford's in-house hot-shop, made hundreds of other detail mechanical changes, ranging from stiffening the engine and transmission mounts 45 percent to developing trick new forged-aluminum front wishbones.

Expensive Fox Racing Shox internal bypass dampers peeking out from behind the special 35-inch BFGoodrich tires are the Raptor's secret sauce, however (and they are expensive-SVT boss Hermann Salenbauch, an ebullient German whose résumé includes stints at BMW and Rover, says when he presented the Raptor program to Ford product development brass, one of them saw the piece cost for the dampers and exclaimed: "I could get half a V-8 for that!"). Boasting 11.4 inches of travel up front, and 12.2 at the rear, the Fox Racing Shox help the Raptor shrug off monstrous high-speed off-road impacts that would pop the springs through the fenders of a regular truck, yet deliver such sublime body control it rides like a Range Rover on the blacktop. It's that good.

But there's one thing the Raptor's been missing -- power. Though massaged to deliver 310 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque, even an SVT-tuned 5.4-liter Ford Triton V-8 is not the world's most scintillating powerplant. Throttle response is a touch languid, and by the time you reach the 5000-rpm power peak it's gasping as hard as Danny DeVito running a marathon. The Raptor needed more grunt. The good news is, it's got it.

Ford's new 6.2-liter V-8 is the engine the Raptor was always meant to have; the decision to launch with a tuned Triton was made when the engine and truck development programs got six months out of phase. Built at Ford's Romeo engine plant, the new 6.2 is a conventional iron-block, aluminum-head V-8 with single overhead camshafts, variable camshaft timing, and two valves-and two spark plugs-per cylinder. The crank is secured by four bolt main bearing caps, cross-bolted for extra durability. Forged-steel connecting rods are standard, as are lightweight magnesium cam covers and a composite intake manifold.

The base engine made its debut in the 2011 Ford Super Duty with 385 horsepower and 405 pound-feet of torque. A unique cam profile means the engine pumps out 411 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 434 pound-feet at 4500 rpm in Raptor trim. That's a useful 26-horse bump in power and a 29-pound-foot increase in torque, not to mention an extra 101 horsepower and 69 pound-feet over the old 5.4-liter engine. But the raw numbers don't tell the whole story.

The bigger engine adds 150 pounds over the Raptor's front axle, necessitating changes to front and rear spring rates and some of the damper valving to better manage what SVT engineers call "pitch inertia." That's important because one of the keys to the Raptor's unbelievable high-speed stability in the rough stuff is eliminating the tendency of the lightly loaded rear suspension to kick the truck's tail in the air over bumps. The other big change has been to the transmission calibration for the six-speed automatic, which will now hold a lower gear on the entry to corners if you're driving hard.

We drove 5.4 and 6.2 Raptors back to back along the same desert track, a challenging mixture of soft sand and scattered rocks and stomach-churning bumps, linked by a constant string of fast and slow-speed turns. The 6.2's crisper throttle response, how it punches harder out of the turns, and how it blows through deep sanddrifts that leave the 5.4 struggling, are all instantly noticeable. The revised transmission calibration delivers faster, more authoritative upshifts, yet holds a lower gear when you lift off the gas and pitch the truck sideways into a corner. The over-square configuration (bore is 4.02 inches and stroke 3.74 inches) means the 6.2 revs harder than the long-stroke Triton, spinning readily to 6200 rpm with a leaner, harder-edged snarl, thanks, in part, to the new engine's different firing order.

The extra power and torque make the Raptor more adjustable, more fun to drive in the rough stuff. You're more able to change the truck's attitude mid-turn; lift off the gas to get the nose to tuck into the apex, or punch it to kick the tail wide. It might weigh more than the 5.4, but the 6.2 Raptor feels lighter and nimbler. We tried it in 4x2 with the diff locked, and 4x4 with the rear diff open (you can run in four-wheel drive with the diff locked, but the front end then wants to push too much). In two-wheel drive, the Raptor is spectacular, sideways and spitting sand everywhere, but it requires pro-racer reflexes to keep the momentum up through the desert. Four-wheel drive is the hot ticket for most drivers in most conditions, the extra power and torque helping the front wheels pull you out of the turns, particularly in soft sand.

The 6.2 engine is a $3000 option. Worth the money? You betcha. In fact, it's such a no-brainer that, of the 7000 orders that have been placed for the Raptor at this time, 3000 or so were for the 6.2, even though no one outside of Ford engineers and execs, plus a handful of media, have actually driven it. Once the Raptor 6.2 starts to hit the streets, we wouldn't be surprised if demand for the 5.4 slowly dries up.

And what will SVT do for an encore then? Well, with a bump in the compression ratio, a revised cam profile, new headers, and remapped engine-management system, the new 6.2-liter V-8 is good for a reliable 500 horsepower and 500 pound-feet. The engine's already been race proven in the Baja 1000, installed in the Raptor R. The SVT engineers know better than most the truth in the old saying that racing improves the breed-more than a few are racers themselves. A Raptor R for the street? Now that would be one helluva truck. And the line starts right here.

The Racer's Edge

The true stroke of genius in the Raptor is this time SVT hasn't tried to make a truck do what it really can't do: drive like a sports car. Sure, the slammed, fat-tired SVT F-150 Lightning was fun (as was the outrageous Dodge Ram SRT10), but it was a pretty one-dimensional vehicle. And no matter how good you were behind the wheel, you'd still get your doors blown off by a Porsche.

Turning a truck into a desert racer you can drive on the street makes a lot more sense. Desert racers are built tough and built to go off-road; there's a big slice of truck DNA right there. The Raptor might not have the payload and towing capability of a regular F-150, but it will still haul stuff. And it will take you off-road in-below racing speeds-real comfort. For that reason, the Raptor is apparently proving popular among Texas ranchers who regularly drive across rough tracks to the farthest corners of their property.

But if the Raptor is the Porsche 911 GT3 of pickup trucks, it's perhaps not too much of a stretch to suggest that, as Porsche does with the GT3, Ford might support a desert-racing class for near-stock Raptors. Mention the idea to the folks at SVT, and you'll get a knowing smile.

Source: Motortrend

"Wear Your Seatbelt"

2010-05-03T03:46:00.001-05:00

This is the new "wear your seatbelt" ad the UK is doing - started by some
dude not hired to do it, but because the cause is important to him, he came
up with this idea, and now it's being hailed across the world as a
‘beautiful’ commercial. ...And now the video has gone “viral” (which means,
has become so popular with the general public that people are forwarding it
to friends/family on their own so quickly that it has spread all over the
world in a very short time).

Source: Youtube

Ford Blue Oval Bash

2010-04-24T09:13:00.004-05:00

Blue Oval Bash Flyer

Schedule

Friday, April 30

Gates Open 9:00 AM
Test N Tune Noon-5 PM
Ford vs. The World (All Run) 6:00 PM
Secure Track

9:00 PM

Saturday, May 1

Gates Open 8:00 AM
Car Show Registration 9:00 AM
Time Trials (2) (All Classes) 10:00 AM
Car Show Judging Noon-4 PM
Bracket Eliminations begin after Time Trials
True Street Cruise 2:00 PM
1st Round of Fast Ford 8.50 Index 2:30 PM
Battle of the Ford Jet Cars 3 PM & 6 PM
Car Show Awards 5:00 PM
Secure Track

9:00 PM

Sunday, May 2

Gates Open 8:00 AM
Church Service 9:00 AM
Time Trial (1) 10:00 AM
Bracket Eliminations Noon
1st Round of Ford Modular Motor Class 1:30 PM
Truck/SUV Race 2:00 PM

Check Out This Site For More Information: Bristol Dragway