Ford has been a part of the Twin Cities since 1915, when 100 workers began assembling Model T's in an old warehouse that had been converted into an assembly plant. In 1925 the current Twin Cities Assembly Plant formally opened its doors, starting a legacy of pride and quality in the Ford brand in the city. Over the years the plant proved it could take care of itself – it forged power from a hydroelectric dam and manufactured its own glass from silica mines located deep below the earth. It altered and changed with the times, stopping production during the Great Depression and manufacturing military vehicles in World War II. The plant proved its versatility time and again by producing the F-Series truck along with full-size cars like the LTD, Galaxie, Country Squire, Country Sedan, Starliner, Del Rio, Fairlane, Crown Victoria, Crestliner, Sportsman, Deluxe Super Deluxe and Phaeton. Most recently, the Ranger compact pickup has rolled off its assembly line for the last 26 years. Through it all, the loyalty and dedication of the employees hasn’t wavered. Their contribution will never be forgotten.
Source: Ford
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
All-New 1967 Mustang Convertible Body Joins Growing Stable of Classic Ford-Licensed Restoration Parts
The 1967 Mustang convertible body shell is the fourth reproduction body licensed by Ford Motor Co.
Restorers can now build a “new” 1967 Mustang convertible with an all-new steel body
The 1967 Mustang convertible body is stronger than the original and can be outfitted with Ford’s big-block engines
With nearly 8.5 million built since first debuting in 1964, the Ford Mustang is America’s longest selling four-seat sports car
DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 20, 2011 – The latest addition to the growing stable of classic Mustang bodies – the 1967 convertible – just might be the ultimate stocking stuffer this Christmas for restorers of America’s favorite sports car.
The 1967 convertible body shell, the newest officially licensed Ford Restoration part, is now available to order starting at $15,995. It is the fourth reproduction classic Mustang body available to restorers, joining the 1965 convertible, the 1967 fastback and the 1969 fastback.
To qualify as an official Ford-licensed restoration part, the 1967 body shell has to meet or exceed the fit, finish and quality of the original, said Dennis Mondrach, Ford Restoration Parts licensing manager. “The new 1967 convertible body shell gives restorers a super-solid foundation on which to build their dream pony car.”
Dynacorn International, manufacturer of the 1967 convertible body, worked to not only replicate the original 1967 convertible, but make it better. The body panels, for example, are stamped from modern automotive-grade virgin steel that is slightly thicker than the original, according to Jim Christina, Dynacorn general manager. Then, to further add strength, the panels are assembled using modern welding techniques. There are also newly engineered reinforcements in known stress areas to add strength and rigidity to the body, added Christina.
“These days, the chances are fairly slim of finding a restorable, rust-free 1967 Mustang that has never been wrecked,” said Mondrach. “As the value of classic Mustangs has increased over the years, garages, barns and scrapyards have been picked clean.”
Now, Mustang fans dreaming of restoring a classic 1967 convertible – or building one with a modern powertrain – won’t have to spend time and money getting an original 1967 convertible body into restorable condition. That expensive, time-consuming step can be skipped by starting with the new 1967 convertible body. “Some minor panel adjustment and alignment still has to be done, but the body comes rustproofed and primed and is otherwise ready for painting and assembly,” said Mondrach. More information about the 1967 body shell and all other Ford-licensed restoration parts can be found at
href="www.fordrestorationparts.com">www.fordrestorationparts.com.
1967 Mustang: More luxury, more power, more style
After a record-setting production run that saw more than a million Mustangs gallop out of Ford factory gates in just 18 months, the 1967 model was given a major redesign. The move helped keep Mustang ahead of the pack as new competitors from General Motors and Chrysler along with imported sports cars from Great Britain claimed a larger share of the mid-1960's youth market.
No part of the Mustang was overlooked in 1967. The body was widened, the hood lengthened, and the engine bay grew in size to accommodate an array of six engines ranging from a thrifty and peppy 200-cubic-inch inline six-cylinder all the way up to a thundering 390-horsepower 427 that came in the Shelby GT500. This helped launch an entirely new generation of big-block high-horsepower pony cars that fueled the growing muscle car mania.
The 1967 also got all-new sheetmetal, a redesigned grille, new taillights and a nifty option that put turn signals in the hood scoops. On the inside, the more luxurious interior took the Mustang in a new direction. Buyers could opt for a tilt-away steering wheel, a gauge package with a built-in tachometer, brushed aluminum trim on the dash, door panels and shifter console. There was also a roof console with map lights between the sun visors, and the 1967 was the first Mustang with built-in air conditioning that was packaged behind the dash, not under it.
Because more than 90 percent of the parts needed to restore a 1967 Mustang convertible are available new as Ford-licensed reproduction components, the 1967 convertible body can be built to just about any specification that was available when the car was new. Ford’s big-block engines from that era, including the 390, 427 and 428-cubic-inch motors, bolt right in with no modifications necessary. Also, the 1967 body can be used as a basis to build a replica of the Shelby GT350 or GT500 convertibles.
“The 1967 convertible body is supported by thousands of high-quality Ford-licensed restoration parts,” Mondrach said. “So, though it may be possible to build a 1967 Mustang using almost all new parts, we think most customers who buy the 1967 convertible shell will use it for high-performance applications, resto-mod projects or for show cars.”
Source: Ford
Limited-Edition Ford Racing History Artwork Unveiled at SEMA; Limited-Edition Print Sales to Benefit JDRF
Special limited-edition Ford Racing history artwork is unveiled at the annual SEMA show as part of the Ford press conference
Famed automotive artist Sam Bass created the artwork at the request of Edsel B. Ford II, with proceeds from sales of limited-edition autographed prints benefiting JDRF
Drivers and Ford race vehicles featured on the special artwork include Henry Ford (Sweepstakes), Trevor Bayne (No. 21 Fusion), Dan Gurney/A.J. Foyt (Ford Mark IV), Bob Glidden (NHRA Thunderbird), Jackie Stewart (Tyrrell F1), Jim Clark (Lotus-Ford Indy car), John Force (NHRA Mustang) and Parnelli Jones (SCCA Mustang)
LAS VEGAS, Oct. 30, 2012 – Just as Ford Racing drivers try to lock down major 2012 championships on the track and consumer holiday shopping begins off the track, Ford Motor Company is unveiling a special limited-edition Ford Racing history print today at the SEMA show that will be sold to benefit JDRF.
This special Sam Bass artwork celebrates Ford’s storied 111-year racing history, with proceeds from the limited-edition prints benefiting JDRF. Commissioned for his private collection by Edsel B. Ford II, great-grandson of Henry Ford, the original artwork dramatically portrays some of the greatest moments in Ford Racing history.
There will be only 500 numbered prints created, all hand-signed by Edsel B. Ford II and Sam Bass, and retailing for $449 on www.fordimages.com. All proceeds from sales will benefit JDRF.
Print No. 1 will be on display at the Ford stand at SEMA, and will be sold as part of a special online auction on eBay. The link to bid on Print No. 1 is http://item.ebay.com/180992921115. Both eBay and Channel Advisor are waiving their fees to support this charitable effort.
In addition, a collectible Fathead® peel-and-stick graphics piece featuring the artwork, Ford and JDRF logos will be available at the Ford merchandise trailer during the show.
The lower center of the artwork, in black-and-white, features Henry Ford himself, on top of his Sweepstakes racer, which he took to an upset win over Alexander Winton, the greatest racer in America, on Oct. 10, 1901. Ford’s victory, with mechanic Spider Huff perched on the side to assist him, helped him gain the investors to start Ford Motor Company in 1903. That race is considered the start of the Ford racing program. Below Ford is a rendering of the cut-glass punch bowl he received for winning that day, a prized racing artifact lost for more than 60 years.
To the left of Ford is the 1965 Indianapolis 500-winning Lotus-Ford 38/1 Indy car driven to victory by Jim Clark. The Lotus-Ford was the first rear-engine car to win Indianapolis and it changed the sport forever. Clark’s victory for team owner Colin Chapman was assisted by NASCAR’s Wood Brothers Racing team, which was brought in by Ford to pit the car that day.
Just above the Lotus is the famous No. 15 Boss Mustang driven by Parnelli Jones to the 1970 SCCA Trans-Am Championship. The late 1960's and early 1970's were considered the golden era of Trans-Am racing, and no car and driver better represent that era than Jones and his Bud Moore-prepared Mustang.
Just above Jones is the NHRA Mustang Funny Car of racing legend John Force. Force drove the Mustang to his record 15th NHRA title in November 2010, coming from behind on the final day to capture a victory for the ages. The championship – at age 61 – was even more special due to the fact Force had fully returned from serious injuries that almost ended his career just three years earlier.
To the right of Force and just below the Ford oval is Elf Team Tyrrell of Jackie Stewart, who took the Ford-powered car to his third and final Formula One World Championship in 1973. Stewart, certainly one of the greatest F1 drivers of all time, scored the final victory of his career with this car in Germany, ending with 27 wins in just 99 starts.
To the right of Stewart’s car is the Motorcraft Ford Fusion of Wood Brothers Racing, the longest-running NASCAR team in history. No. 21 is shown as a new 2013 model NASCAR Fusion at Daytona International Speedway, recalling the Woods’ most recent victory at the 2011 Daytona 500 with Trevor Bayne. That victory was the fifth Daytona 500 win for the Wood Brothers, and Ford’s 600th in NASCAR Sprint Cup.
Below the Fusion is the famous Motorcraft Thunderbird NHRA Pro Stock car of Bob Glidden. Glidden was the king of Pro Stock racing, ending his career with a then-record 85 victories. He also won 10 NHRA Pro Stock championships, including five in a row, with his family race team.
Finally, in the lower right corner is the Ford Mark IV race car that won the 1967 24 Hours of Le Mans. The No. 1 car remains the only all-American car, powered by an American engine, prepared by an American team with American drivers to win Le Mans overall. Racing legends A.J. Foyt and Dan Gurney drove the car to victory, the second of four Ford wins at Le Mans in the late 1960's.
Source: Ford
2013 Super Duty® Going Platinum.
Luxury and toughness come together in a way only a Ford F-Series Super Duty® can deliver. It's the new Super Duty Platinum, coming late 2012.
Featured is unique styling inside and out, with Platinum-color trim and lots of chrome and body-color cues. Illuminated 6-inch angular step bars too. Plus heated/cooled leather-trimmed front seats and a steering wheel wrapped in leather with heated wood.
The list of conveniences is just as impressive, headlined by premium features such as Ford SYNC® with MyFordTouch®, Navigation System with HD Radio and SiriusXM Satellite Radio. PowerScope® trailer tow mirrors and Remote Start System are also standard equipment.
And all this style and luxury ride on 20-inch cast aluminum wheels with painted pockets.
For the full preview of the 2013 Super Duty Platinum, click here.
Source: Ford
2012 Mustang Boss® 302 Laguna Seca: Best of the Best Honoree
Congratulations to the 2012 Mustang Boss® Laguna Seca for being named among the Best of the Best 2012: Coupes and GT's by the Robb Report.
Born in 1969, the Mustang Boss 302 was originally developed by Ford to rival its Chevrolet competition and compete in the Trans-Am series. Its second generation, in 2012, marked major revisions including powerful engine choices, a responsive 6-speed transmission and tailored interior options.
The 2012 Boss 302 Laguna Seca was upgraded even further. Additions like optional RECARO® racing seats, TORSEN® helical differential and front-air splitter make it the ultimate purpose-built track Mustang.
According to Robert Ross of the Robb Report, “In an age of paddle-shift automatics, button-controlled suspension modes, shift-mapping software, and driver-tuned exhausts, the Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca is a welcome throwback to the get-in-and-drive days of its progenitor.”
Source: Ford
Monday, October 15, 2012
1965 Ford Mustang On A Stamp
On September 3, 1999, the United States Postal Service unveiled the Mustang stamp as a part of its Celebrate the Century series. The 33-cent stamp featured a 1965 red Mustang convertible and was one of a total of 150 stamps featuring important events from the US in the 20th century.
Source: Ford
How Many Of These Ford's Do You Remember?
1950 Ford F1
1949 Ford Station Wagon
1941 Ford Tow Truck
1950 Ford Sedan
1933 Ford Fordor Sedan
1994 Ford Explorer
On August 27, 1993, Ford Motor Company's one millionth Explorer was built at our Louisville Assembly Plant. Since its introduction in 1990, Ford has sold more than six million Explorers.
1929 Model AA Stakeside Truck
August 21, 1997 marked the day that Ford delivered the first factory-built natural gas-powered Crown Victoria to be used as a New York City taxi cab.
On August 28, 2000, Ford unveiled its exclusive 2002 Neiman Marcus Edition Thunderbird at the 50th Annual Concours d’Elegance in Pebble Beach. The elegantly designed vehicle would be only available in black body color and silver removable hard top, with chrome 17” wheels and matching A-pillar. There would only be 200 units available through the Neiman Marcus “Christmas Book” at an MSRP of $41,995.
August 10, 1999 marked the unveiling of the Harley-Davidson F-150 pickup truck. The truck was all black with the Harley-Davidson pin striping and chrome accessories. The 4x2 SuperCab pickup with a flareside box was topped by a hard shell tonneau cover on a 139 inch chassis.
The all-new 2013 Motorcraft/Quick Lane Ford Fusion stock car, the model that was just approved for ‘13 competition by NASCAR.
On July 27, 1917, Ford announced that it would begin selling its first dedicated truck chassis. Prior to 1917, Ford used car chassis with pick up and commercial bodies for their truck. The new Model TT chassis was two feet longer than the Model T chassis and had stiffer suspension, with heavy-duty wheel hubs and solid rubber tires. While only three Model TT chassis were produced in 1917, Ford went on to produce 1,471,441 chassis through the product run, which ended in 1928, with the introduction of the Model AA. The photo below is a 1918 Model TT truck.
Did you know that more than 10 pounds of scrap cotton from jeans, sweaters, T-shirts and other items – material that otherwise would be sent to a landfill – is used in sound-absorption material throughout the 2013 Escape?
The 2006 Ford GT. The designers drew inspiration from Ford GT40 racing cars of the 1960's when they designed this model.
On July 17, 1985, the very first Ford Aerostar rolled off the St. Louis Plant assembly line. The Aerostar provided the best balance between passenger comfort and light truck versatility. Did you ever use an Aerostar to get from here to there in the '80's, '90's, or even now?
July 19, 1999 marked the first day of production for two breakthrough products - the Ford Focus and Ford Excursion. The Ford Excursion began US production at the Kentucky Truck Plant, while Ford Focus production began further north at the Wayne (MI) Assembly Plant.
The Ford Model T debuted on October 1, 1908 and thanks to Henry Ford’s vision, put the world on wheels. More than 15,000,000 of this universal car were built and sold in the 19 years that the model was available.
The groundbreaking ceremony for Ford Motor Company World Headquarters was held on September 28, 1953 in Dearborn, Michigan. World Headquarters is 12 stories tall, and contains nearly 5 acres of glass, hence its nickname: The Glass House.
On October 7, 1913, the world's first moving automotive assembly line began operation at Highland Park Plant. Henry Ford and Ford engineers used the mass production process of the moving assembly line, creating and defining the industrial age and enabling Ford to steadily decrease the price of the Model T. In 1908, the first Model T’s sold for $825. By 1925, it sold for only $260.
In the early 1920's, Fordson could be found at the Michigan State Fair in September exhibiting tractors to the public. Fair-goers could check out the tractors and other farm equipment on display, as well as watch tractor demonstations.
On September 10, 1942, Ford's Willow Run Plant delivered its first completed B-24 to the US Army. Willow Run would go on to produce more than 8,500 B-24s during its 3 years of production during World War II.
Source: Ford
2002 Ford Thunderbird
On September 25, 2000, the Neiman Marcus Edition of the model year 2002 Ford Thunderbird set a world record for any vehicle offered through the Neiman Marcus catalog. The 200 vehicles (intended to be collectors' items) were completely sold out within 2 hours and 15 minutes after the phone lines opened.
Source: Ford
1955 Continental
On October 5, 1955, the Continental Mark II was introduced. Like the original Continental, the Mark II is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful cars ever designed. With perfect proportions and standard equipment that included power steering, power brakes, radio and heater, as well as an asking price of around $10,000, the Mark II was clearly a special vehicle.
Source: Internet
35 Years of Ford Fiesta
1976 Ford Fiesta and 2011 Ford Fiesta
Introduced in 1976, over two million MkI Fiestas were built.
The sporty XR2 model appeared in MkII guise in 1984.
MkIII Fiesta appeared in 1989 and was available in three-door - such as the S model shown here - or, for the first time, five-door formats.
The 1996 MkIV had an aerodynamic shape.
In 1999, the MkIV received a facelift to give it a New Edge look.
The MkV was revealed in 2001 and was launched in 2002, with advanced common rail diesel engines available.
2011 WRC
Ford Fiesta RS WRC. Shakedown, 2011 Rally Finland Les Kolczak
Source: Ford
2013 SEMA Focus ST Project Vehicles
2013 Ford Focus ST, 2.0L EcoBoost, Six-Speed Manual Transmission
Why it's cool: Brings European design cues to American soil, Bojix Design delivers a sleek, chic, tasteful and impactful look with their new Focus ST interpretation. Iconic orange paint, expressive body kit bits, big brakes and coil-overs add grip to the go. A celebration of full-throttle design, this unique build will turn heads of Focus fanatics everywhere.
2013 Ford Focus ST, 2.0L EcoBoost, Six-Speed Manual Transmission
Why it's cool: The M&J team formulated a partnership between Ford, Cosworth LLC and Ford Racing to boost Focus ST power by more than 30 percent, and torque by almost 20 percent. Ford Racing engine and suspension modifications combined with Cosworth specified wheels and tires to put 330 horsepower to the pavement. The Tangerine Scream finish and subtle graphics signal an appreciative nod to an authentic motorsports heritage.
2013 Ford Focus ST, 2.0L EcoBoost, Six-Speed Manual Transmission
Why it's cool: Steeda takes aim at demanding performance junkies with their European-inspired Focus ST. On the street or track, the Steeda ST offers increased performance, improved handling, aggressive looks and performance feel to make an automotive enthusiast latch on and not let go. Steeda G-Trac suspension modifications, Brembo brakes and a 19-inch custom wheel and tire package takes power to the tarmac. This hot hatchback means business.
2013 Ford Focus ST, 2.0L EcoBoost, Six-Speed Manual Transmission
Why it's cool: World record holder and X-Games Gold medalist Tanner Foust set out to build a competent weekend track/canyon warrior, comfortable enough to endure a Southern California commute. Improved performance including increased air intake, and a signature MagnaFlow exhaust add power, while fully adjustable front and rear suspension adds flexibility for top performance regardless of the track. Custom body kit additions complete Tanner's aggressive, yet approachable look.
2013 Ford Focus ST, 2.0L EcoBoost, Six-Speed Manual Transmission
Why it's cool: Infusing a heavy dose of rally car DNA into a 2013 Focus ST, the Galpin team took power and vehicle dynamics to the next level with coil-over springs, big brakes, methanol injection and a rally-ready body kit. An eye-catching paint scheme and upgraded interior finishes the expressive design. The result is a fun to drive, great looking rally car equally at home slinging mud or cruising the boulevard.
Source: Ford
Friday, October 12, 2012
2013 Ford C-Max
Maximize Your Lifestyle
The 2013 C-MAX is the first-ever hybrid-only vehicle line from Ford in North America.
Both the all-new C-MAX Hybrid and the all-new C-MAX Energi Plug-in Hybrid offer the sporty style and performance of a Ford vehicle with the added benefit of leaving a smaller carbon footprint. The vehicles run on a combination of gas and electric.
The key difference between the C-MAX Hybrid and the C-MAX Energi is that the C-MAX Energi is the first plug-in production vehicle for Ford. That means that the C-MAX Energi is like a “hybrid plus,” which operates just like a traditional hybrid, plus features a charge port and larger lithium-ion battery. This allows you to plug in for electric-only range, which enhances efficiency.
Whichever model suits your lifestyle, both feature the SmartGauge® with EcoGuide, a 2.0L Atkinson-cycle I-4 gas engine teamed with an advanced high-voltage lithium-ion battery, and innovative technology like the available SYNC® with MyFord Touch®. The C-MAX Energi also seamlessly integrates with the smartphone app and website, MyFord® Mobile.*
*MyFord Mobile subscription complimentary for five years. Subscription fees apply after five years.
2.0L I-4 Hybrid Electric Powertrain
For more than a decade, Ford has engineered alternative-energy vehicles. These include the world's first hybrid SUV - powered by a gas engine/electric motor and designed to be efficient and reduce impact on the environment while still offering impressive performance.
The C-MAX Hybrid and C-MAX Energi both offer an engine that was designed for hybrid efficiency
The new 2.0L Atkinson-cycle I-4 gas engine is teamed with an advanced high-voltage lithium-ion battery
A new electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT) built and engineered by Ford.
Next-generation SmartGauge® with EcoGuide
Next-generation SmartGauge® with EcoGuide
SmartGauge® with EcoGuide coaches you on how to drive more efficiently.
Standard on C-MAX Hybrid and C-MAX Energi
Innovative instrument gauge cluster
Built-in LCD tutorials on braking and driving efficiency
Four levels of customizable information with MyView
Easy-to-use five way steering wheel controls
Accessible through MyFord Touch® controls
Green leaves displayed growing on a lush green vine indicate greater driving efficiency
Available SYNC® with MyFord Touch®
Keep your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.27
Call without reaching for your phone
Voice control your music
911 Assist® can call even if you can’t
Vehicle Health Report checkups
Voice-control your climate
Customizable color screens
Screens also display other efficiency content with features like EcoRoute,* which displays the most economical way to get to your destination.
*The vehicle must be equipped with a navigation system to get EcoRoute.
Hybrid Technology – 47 mpg
Efficient operation combined with dynamic style and performance.
Electric motor powered by an advanced state-of-the-art battery provides up to 47 mpg*
2.0L Atkinson-cycle I-4 gas engine teamed with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT)
Regenerative braking system
The next-generation SmartGauge® with EcoGuide is an innovative gauge cluster that provides real-time information to help you get the most efficiency from your C-MAX vehicle
*EPA-estimated 47 city/ 47 hwy/ 47 combined mpg.
C-MAX Energi Technology
Think of the all-new C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid as a "hybrid plus". It was designed to deliver maximum efficiency by combining an advanced state-of-the- art battery and electric motor with a gasoline engine.
The gasoline engine does not run all the time, so you may go farther between refueling stops
Plug-in capability lets you charge the battery using either a standard 120-volt or a 240-volt outlet upgraded with available electric vehicle supply equipment
Next-generation SmartGauge® with EcoGuide* provides images representing driving efficiency
Available SYNC® with MyFord Touch®
EV Mode button allows the driver to easily switch between all-electric and gas power
*The vehicle must be equipped with a navigation system to get EcoRoute.
Illuminated Charge Port
You’ll always know at a glance when your car is charged and ready to go.
When the connector cord is plugged into the C-MAX Energi charge port, located between the driver’s door and front wheel well, the port will illuminate into quadrants to indicate its current level of charge
When all four quadrants are illuminated, the vehicle has fully charged
Available 240V charging cord shown.
Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (eCVT)
Enjoy incredibly seamless engine speed shifts.
Allows engine to run at its most efficient operating points (speeds and torque) over a full range of vehicle speeds
Does not require shifting elements such as clutches. This contrasts with other mechanical transmissions that offer a fixed discrete number of gear ratios
Includes state-of-the-art electric motor for performance on demand
Available Foot-Activated Liftgate
Simply place your foot under the rear bumper to open the power liftgate
Requires available Intelligent Access key to be on your person
Motion sensors are located in two places in the bumper
Flexible Fold-Flat Second-Row Seat
C-MAX features second-row seats that fold flat.
Second-row 60/40 bench seat
Easy-to-use forward fold-flat functionality
Provides ample cargo space on demand
Available Active Park Assist
Helps make parallel parking easier.
Once the feature is engaged by pushing the active park assist button, ultrasonic sensors can detect an appropriate parallel-parking spot
Sensors measure available parking spaces and inform the driver of an appropriate parking spot
With minimal driver input, the vehicle virtually parks itself
Takes the guesswork out of determining if a vehicle can be parked in the desired space
Innovative Storage
C-MAX thoughtfully offers multiple storage areas including a center console and in-floor storage second-row compartments.
Located in the floor of the second-row footwell
Just lift up the floor mat
Get extra storage for small personal items
Secure storage for added peace of mind
Source: Ford
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