Posts Tagged ‘Ford Fiesta’

Here’s Something to Rally Around

Monday, February 1st, 2010

Ford Motor Company announced today that it is teaming up with Ken Block, the California-based action sports icon-turned-rally driver, for future global motorsports opportunities.

Block, the 2005 Rally America Rookie of the Year and a three-time medalist at X Games, has cultivated a tremendous following with his Gymkhana videos on YouTube. In 2010, Block will campaign a Ford Focus in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) and a Ford Fiesta in Rally America and X Games.

Rallying is a crucial part of Ford’s global motorsports strategy and provides the company with the opportunity to showcase the true performance capabilities of Ford’s products. Since its support of rallying began, Ford has won three WRC titles and 73 individual events. And, last year in North America, Ford's participation in the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb and X Games 15 were key elements for the launch of the Ford Fiesta for the U.S.

Quotes
“I am stoked to be rallying in a Ford. They are an impressive force in the sport. From the days of the 1970s Escorts to the Group B RS200 to the modern-day Focus and now the Fiesta, Ford just does an excellent job at rally. And I couldn’t be happier to now be part of this amazing heritage. Not to mention my dad would be proud. He was a dedicated Ford guy."
-- Ken Block

“Ken Block has established himself as an action sports competitor and a rising star in the world of American rally racing. We are excited to have him on our team to help promote our new global products, the 2011 Ford Fiesta and 2012 Ford Focus.”
– Jamie Allison, Director Ford North America Motorsports

“Thanks to our participation in WRC, rallying has always played a key role in Ford’s global motorsports programs. With that in mind, we are pleased that Ford is the only manufacturer that could provide Ken with global rally opportunities.”
– Jamie Allison, Director, Ford North America Motorsports

“We’re delighted that Ken Block has chosen to team up with Ford to develop his rallying activities beyond America and into the global arena. Ford and its U.K.-based rally partner, M-Sport, is looking forward to welcoming Ken to the wider team of talented rally drivers using Ford vehicles to compete in this demanding sport at the highest level internationally.”
– Gerard Quinn, Ford of Europe’s Senior Motorsports Manager

Tags: FIA World Rally Championship, Ford, Ford Fiesta, Ford Focus, Ford Motor Company, Gymkhana, Ken Block, Rally America, Rally America Rookie of the Year, X Games

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Live Chat with Rally Car Driver Ken Block

Friday, January 22nd, 2010

You may have heard that Ken Block recently teamed up with Ford. In 2010, Ken will campaign a Ford Focus in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) and a Ford Fiesta in Rally America and X Games. You
can read more about that and watch a teaser video by clicking here to go to that theFordStory article.

At 1:45 p.m. EST on January 22, 2010, you’ll have a chance to participate in a live chat with Ken right here. He’ll be answering questions and sharing some of his experiences.

Ken’s rally career began in 2005. His skill and car control were quickly apparent and he was aptly named Rookie of the Year in the Rally America Championship. Since then, he has continued to race in the series, boasting a healthy number of podium appearances, as well as X Games medals.

In addition to his performance in the car, Ken has been a driving force in shining a spotlight on the sport of rally in the United States. Before entering motorsports, he co-founded DC Shoes, a worldwide leader in performance skateboarding shoes and a renowned action sports brand.

His keen sense of marketing not only helped elevate DC to their current status, but it has also allowed Ken to achieve global fame as a national rally driver through his very successful viral video campaigns. Ad Age named his Gymkhana TWP film the No. 4 Viral Video of 2009.

In 2010, Ken goes global. He will compete in both Rally America and X Games in the United States with a Ford Fiesta, and WRC in a Ford Focus RS.

We make it easy for you to share this story with your friends; simply click on the “share this” method of your choice at the top right corner of this page. You can also click here to sign up for updates from Ford Motor Company, and click here to add an RSS feed to your regular homepage.

Tags: FIA World Rally Championship (WRC), Ford Fiesta, Ford Focus, Ken Block, Live Chat, Rally America, X Games

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Say Goodbye to Pet Peeve #10

Wednesday, December 23rd, 2009

Does the sight of a blinker flashing on the car in front of you for miles and miles drive you crazy? You’re not the only one.

This annoying habit is so frustrating to drivers that it made the “Top 10 Driving Pet Peeves” list by a leading vehicle insurance company, which surveyed thousands of drivers nationwide. Nicknamed Morse Coders in the survey, these drivers often cruise for miles without realizing their blinker is on. Meanwhile, they are annoying everyone behind them.

Most annoying driving habits:

1. Distracted drivers talking on cell phones (28.5 percent)

2. Slow drivers in the fast lane (21.6 percent)

3. Pushy drivers who tailgate (18.1 percent)

4. Drivers who weave through traffic to gain one or two car lengths (12.5 percent)

5. Obnoxious drivers who speed up to keep you from changing lanes (5.5 percent)

6. Hasty drivers who change lanes without signaling (4.9 percent)

7. Road Rage (2.7 percent)

8. Motorcyclists who race down the middle of a lane, between cars (2.1 percent)

9. Women applying makeup and men shaving (1.7 percent)

10. Drivers who leave their turn signal on for miles (0.92 percent)

Source: Hagerty Insurance

Coming this summer on the 2011 Ford Fiesta
Ford’s three-blink lane change technology is simplifying the way drivers maneuver on the road. With a simple flick of the switch – either up or down, depending on which lane the driver is moving into – the turn indicator will blink three times and automatically shut off. The switch can be held in the lane change position longer for additional blinks beyond the three minimum.

To engage the turn signal, drivers move the switch into the standard position, one more press past the lane change mode.

For motorists who drive behind the Morse Coders, this is welcome news: “Driving behind a car that’s blink, blink, blinking is enough of a driver annoyance that we’re putting the technology in our full Ford line going forward,” said Murphy. “Customers say this is confusing – and it bugs them. So we’re doing something about it.”

Going on sale in the summer of 2010, the all-new Ford Fiesta is among the first vehicles in the Ford lineup to receive the new three-blink technology. The “annoyance avoidance” feature is yet another technology going into the expressive, fun-to-drive Fiesta that makes perfect sense.

With a projected best-in-class highway fuel economy of 40 mpg, Fiesta is designed to be versatile, personal and adaptable. In fact, Fiesta is expected to deliver best-in-class safety, convenience and connectivity with segment-exclusive SYNC® voice-activated communications system, an expressive color palette and available graphics.

The 2011 Ford Super Duty is also set to receive the three-blink turn signal technology when it goes on sale in 2010.

Quotes
“Most drivers have found themselves behind cars that have their signals on after changing lanes. This can be confusing because there is no way of knowing if the signal is a real indication of an upcoming turn or not. To reduce this confusion, drivers want vehicles to automatically disengage the turn signal after making a lane change.”
– Jim Thomas, Senior Vice President of RDA Group

“This allows the driver to let go of the switch and concentrate on driving. Instead of holding down the switch, they can give a quick tap, show a three-blink warning that they are about to merge and change lanes. It’s that simple.”
– John Murphy, Ford Core Switch Product Engineer

Tags: Blinker, Ford, Ford Fiesta, Ford Motor Company, Lane Change, Pet Peeve, Three-Blink Lane Change Technology

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Someone Needs a New Trophy Case – A Big One!

Tuesday, December 22nd, 2009

Ford is celebrating a year of success for its best-selling small car, recently collecting the 26th major European honor for the Ford Fiesta in Bucharest – the Romanian Car of the Year award.

Over the past 12 months, the Ford Fiesta has been lauded across the globe, winning over 70 prestigious awards in 14 countries and regions to date – Australia, China, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Greece, Germany, Indonesia, Slovenia, Spain, Russia, Scotland, South Africa, the United Kingdom and Catalonia. In China alone, the Ford Fiesta has collected an astonishing 44 accolades so far! (See the list.)

Car of the Year
The awards have included national and individual publications’ overall Car of the Year awards and best supermini and B-segment honors – all awarded for the Fiesta’s all-round qualities. Other awards have been for Fiesta’s design or manufacturing excellence, and several for the Fiesta’s impressive environmental performance, most notably for the sub 100g/km CO2 Ford Fiesta ECOnetic model.
The large number of accolades the car has received highlights how well it has been received by the global media.
More importantly though, is the success new Fiesta has met with from customers, with over 540,000 examples sold since the car was launched just over a year ago. Of those, over 492,000 sales have been in Europe, where Ford Fiesta is the No.2 best-selling car overall, and the No.1 top-seller in its segment year-to-date.

Quotes
“We are extremely proud of the latest Fiesta model both in terms of what it has achieved and what it represents. The Fiesta is one of the vehicles that are key to how Ford Motor Company is transforming itself globally. We’re delighted that so many car buyers have chosen it, and that so many opinion formers have acknowledged its many strengths.”
– John Fleming, Chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe

“With the Ford Fiesta continuing its global rollout in North America in early 2010, we hope it is only a matter of time before our best-selling car adds to its impressive collection of accolades.”
– John Fleming, Chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe

Tags: award, Ford, Ford Fiesta, Ford Motor Company, Romanian Car of the Year

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Living the Dream… in 30-minute Increments

Thursday, December 17th, 2009

It’s been said that you can’t live – much less “live the dream” – in L.A. without your own wheels. In a town where image is everything, young up-and-comers are well advised to be seen in a vehicle that projects how hip and socially vibrant they are. Enter the Ford Fiesta.

The Ford Fiesta is used to being noticed online. After all, it had a starring role in the Fiesta Movement, a marketing platform that lives in the social media space. Its newest role will be on the new series, If I Can Dream, where this exciting new car will serve as an integral part of the cast.

If I Can Dream follows five young people as they pursue their dreams in Hollywood. All the while, their lives will be captured and streamed online in real-time, 24/7 on www.ificandream.com. In addition, a 30-minute show will be broadcast each week exclusively on Hulu, a Web site that offers popular TV shows and movies from commercial networks.

The show is also a natural extension of Fiesta’s vibrant life online. Like Fiesta Movement agents, the cast of the show will communicate with fans and followers via social media.

The Ford Fiesta already has the attention of socially connected consumers months before it goes on sale in North America next summer,” said Fontaine. “So when 19 Entertainment approached us to cast the Fiesta in If I Can Dream, it seemed only natural. The role that 19 Entertainment and Ford have created for Fiesta is really exciting and will provide viewers a different look at the cast members through amazing technology and the Fiesta.”

Fiesta has it all – and more
Going on sale in the summer of 2010, the all-new Ford Fiesta features an expressive, vibrant design, with sharp reflexes and a global track record that will redefine U.S. small car customers’ expectations. With 15 class-exclusive technologies and projected best-in-class highway fuel economy of 40 mpg, Fiesta brings fuel economy and convenience together.

It’s also designed to be versatile, personal and adaptable. In fact, Fiesta is expected to deliver best-in-class safety, convenience and connectivity with segment-exclusive SYNC® voice-activated communications system, an expressive color palette and available graphics.

Quotes
“This is a natural role for Fiesta to play. Fiesta’s substantial role will allow customers to interact with the vehicle firsthand and experience the technologies and features before the vehicle goes on sale.”
– Connie Fontaine, Ford Brand Content and Alliances Manager

“I am determined to continue challenging convention and pushing the boundaries of mainstream entertainment. The next frontier is the video world of authentic real-time interaction. If I Can Dream experiments with technology to provide for the first time a complete open-door experience that allows the viewer to experience reality in a way never before attempted.”
– Simon Fuller, creator of If I Can Dream

Tags: Ford, Ford Fiesta, Ford Motor Company, Hollywood, Hulu, If I Can Dream, www.ificandream.com

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Over 1000 Fiestas Already Customized and Revving to Go

Thursday, December 10th, 2009

If you’ve been counting down the days until you can order your 2011 Ford Fiesta, the time is now – and there’s more than 1,000 people right there in line next to you. The new Ford Fiesta is off to a very fast start – with more than 1,000 reservations in less than a week on a new Web site that allows consumers to build, price and reserve the new car.

"The Fiesta Movement created an unparalleled awareness and interest for the Fiesta months ahead of it going on sale next summer," said Lew Echlin, car marketing communications manager. "Fiesta Reservations provides these prospective customers a customized experience for researching, reserving and following their Fiesta."

The Fiesta Movement helped generate momentum for Fiesta and resulted in more than 80,000 hand-raisers leading up to the car's reveal at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The Fiesta Reservations program will hold the interest of potential customers, and give them a VIP experience in conjunction with Ford dealers.

Through the program, consumers who reserve a new Fiesta will receive prioritized order handling with automatic build updates, their personal Fiesta Reservations consultant, and SYNC® and Premium Sound package, worth $595, at no charge once their vehicle is delivered. With a vehicle purchase, participants will be able to share their vehicle information through social media sites like Facebook.

Fiesta reservations have come from 47 states, with customers from California, Florida, Texas, New York and Illinois leading the way in reservations. The program also will provide Ford with a better understanding of mix rates as well as accessory interest, as this is the first time prospective customers can build and price their Ford accessories.

Customized service at your fingertips
Fiesta Reservations consultants will be available 12 hours a day to interact with participants and provide a personalized experience. Adding to the level of customer convenience, dedicated Fiesta Reservations consultants with multilingual capabilities are available.

Other personalized activities by the consultant include updating a customer's reservation per his or her desire, introducing the customer to a "Fiesta specialist" at a local dealership and answering any customer questions.

Interested consumers can access Fiesta Reservations by visiting www.fordvehicles.com/2011fiesta or by texting "reserve" to 4Ford on a smartphone.

Tags: Fiesta Movement, Fiesta Reservation, Ford, Ford Fiesta, Ford Motor Company, Los Angeles Auto Show

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Biggest. Tweetup. Ever.

Thursday, December 3rd, 2009

When Ford Motor Company hosted its Fiesta Movement Awards Celebration at the Palladium in West Hollywood Tuesday night it also set a Guinness World Record for the most attendees at a tweetup. A tweetup is any gathering of two or more people who know each other through Twitter, and this unprecedented event brought together 1,149 Fiesta Movement agents and Twitter friends.

In addition to the tweetup milestone, the event’s attendees also honored their favorite Fiesta agent, Courtney Force.

Sneak peek
The Fiesta Movement Awards Celebration also provided attendees with a sneak peek of the new Fiesta in advance of its reveal at the L.A. Auto Show. The Fiesta for the North American market shares the European model’s kinetic design, platform, performance and driving dynamics. Its body structure underwent minor adaptations to meet unique North American safety standards.

Building buzz
As part of the Fiesta Movement social media initiative, 100 young trendsetters are test driving and living with a European-spec Ford Fiesta for six months, traveling as agents on special missions. They then go on to relate their experiences through a variety of social media sites.

Throughout the Fiesta Movement, agents have traveled more than 1.4 million miles and have generated more than 6 million YouTube views, nearly 740,000 Flickr views and more than 3.7 million Twitter impressions. The Fiesta Movement and test drive program has resulted in more than 80,000 hand-raisers.

Quotes
“Time and again, our Fiesta Movement agents have shown how social media, adventurous spirit and unbridled enthusiasm can bring people together in new, exciting ways. Never before has a group of car owners created such a sustained buzz for a new car. We’re thrilled to celebrate their collective accomplishment.”
– Connie Fontaine, Ford Brand Content and Alliances Manager

“Over the past six months, our Fiesta agents have shown a lot of love for their cars, which were European spec. Judging from their reception for the North American model, that love affair will flourish in the coming year.”
– Connie Fontaine, Ford Brand Content and Alliances Manager

Corrections/Clarifications - December 09, 2009 at 09:24

Tags: Fiesta Celebration, Fiesta Movement, Ford, Ford Fiesta, Ford Motor Company, Guiness World Record, Most Attendees at a Tweetup, Palladium, social media, Tweetup

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Social Media Juggernaut Turns the Page

Wednesday, December 2nd, 2009

If you thought Fiesta Movement agents rocked the social media world this past six months, just wait until the second chapter when 20 new agent teams begin spreading the word about the Ford Fiesta. A new group of agents will be enlisted to engage their local communities by developing communications about Fiesta, leveraging social media as the means to spread the word about Ford’s all-new 40 mpg car.

Twenty teams of agents in major markets across the country will complete a series of missions, where they will compete in challenges online and locally that immerse them in cultural movements, allowing them to ignite passion into their communities through social media while opening the discussion about Fiesta.

After completing the challenge, agents will produce and place the creative content on www.fiestamovement.com. The best content will be recognized based on online consumer interaction and consumers’ opinions about their work. Applications can be submitted on www.fiestamovement.com starting today and running through Jan. 31. The program launches in mid-February.

Mr. or Ms. Right
These new Fiesta Movement agents are socially vibrant individuals who are in tune with the latest happenings in their own communities and are followers of the first chapter of Fiesta Movement. “These teams are going to be made up of part-thinkers, part-social butterflies,” said Fontaine. “New agents will create content that taps into the unique cultures in each city, all the while sharing their experiences with Fiesta.”

The new agents give Ford an opportunity to create a dialogue that is consumer-driven, and engages people with the Fiesta. “People are talking about our brand right now,” Fontaine said. “Fiesta Movement Chapter Two lets us be involved in that discussion.”

Building buzz
Throughout the Fiesta Movement, agents have traveled more than 1.4 million miles and have generated more than 6 million YouTube views, nearly 740,000 Flickr views and more than 3.7 million Twitter impressions. The Fiesta Movement and test drive program has resulted in more than 80,000 hand-raisers.

Quote
“The first chapter was about developing awareness, and now it’s about driving unparalleled consideration. We want to put Fiesta on the shopping list.”
– Connie Fontaine, Ford Brand Content and Alliances Manager

Tags: Fiesta Movement, Fiesta Movement Chapter Two, Ford, Ford Fiesta, Ford Motor Company

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The Fastest and Furiest Fiesta?

Wednesday, December 2nd, 2009

At the 2011 Ford Fiesta’s North American debut at the Los Angeles International Auto Show Dec. 1, Ford unveiled four tricked-out versions of the company’s first global car designed to whet the appetites of customization enthusiasts.

Fiesta showcases Ford Custom Accessories
The customized Fiesta models on display in Los Angeles feature a variety of Ford Custom Accessories, such as an upper rear hatch spoiler, body-side tattoo graphics and a 3dCarbon body kit.

The reveal of four Fiesta tuner cars at the Los Angeles Auto Show marks the first time that Ford is presenting customized cars in conjunction with a new model launch – a move Anderson says is perfect for the new Fiesta.

For performance-minded enthusiasts, Ford also will offer a selection of accessories from Ford Racing Performance Parts, including a performance-tuned suspension package, a performance exhaust and 17-inch Ford Racing wheels.

Ford Racing teamed up with Steeda Autosports to create a custom Fiesta that would perform as well on the track as it does on the street.

Also on display at the show is a Fiesta customized by H&R Special Springs, an aftermarket supplier of suspension parts. It features a lowered suspension that gives the vehicle more of a tuner stance, custom OZ wheels, Pirelli tires and free-flowing body graphics.

A variety of options for customization enthusiasts
The four tricked-out Fiesta models demonstrate that just about anything is possible with imagination. Customers can build and price their own personalized Fiesta by visiting www.fordvehicles.com/2011fiesta.

More than 80,000 people have expressed an interest in buying the new Fiesta months before the vehicle lands in dealerships thanks to the tremendous buzz created by the Fiesta Movement, a social media initiative that has 100 young trendsetters test driving and living with a European-spec Fiesta for six months and reporting their experiences online through a variety of social media sites.

Throughout the Fiesta Movement, agents have traveled more than 1.4 million miles and have generated more than 6 million YouTube views, nearly 740,000 Flickr views and more than 3.7 million Twitter impressions.

The customized Fiestas on display at the Los Angeles Auto Show include:

2011 Ford Fiesta by Ford Racing and Steeda Autosports

2011 Ford Fiesta by H&R Special Springs

2011 Ford Fiesta by Ford Custom Accessories

2011 Ford Fiesta by 3dCarbon and FSWerks

Quotes
“We expect the Fiesta will be wildly popular among people who like to personalize their vehicles because of its affordability, great driving dynamics and award-winning design. We’ll offer these customers a variety of appearance and performance accessories to choose from so they really can make their Fiesta their own. The Fiesta provides a great canvas for the customer who wants to create a vehicle that expresses his or her personality. The possibilities are endless.”
– Melvin Betancourt, Ford Designer

“We want to make it as fun and as easy as possible for people to customize their Fiesta. Since all of the accessories are installed at the dealership, customers can literally drive away with the vehicle of their dreams.”
– Richard Anderson, Fiesta Accessories Manager, Ford Vehicle Personalization

“What makes the Fiesta special is that it captures the essence of European driving. It’s a cool car that delivers from both an appearance perspective as well as a vehicle dynamics perspective.”
– Richard Anderson, Fiesta Accessories Manager, Ford Vehicle Personalization

“Benefiting from its European heritage of superior driving dynamics, Fiesta is the perfect platform for taking it to the next level with performance upgrades, allowing the enthusiast to personalize it with content that complements all the cool appearance items that will be available.”
– Mickey Matus, Ford Racing Marketing Manager

Tags: 2011 Ford Fiesta, Custom Accessories, Custom Fiesta, Fiesta Movement, Ford, Ford Fiesta, Ford Motor Company, North American debut, Steeda Autosports

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Who Got the Red Carpet Treatment in L.A. Last Night?

Wednesday, December 2nd, 2009

Fiesta Movement agents are known for their creative videos and photos that push the limits. At an awards ceremony at the Palladium in L.A. Tuesday night, that creative content was honored. Whether it was helping out a charity, checking out a space shuttle launch or even getting married, Fiesta Movement agents showed the online world they know how to produce exciting content.

Awards presented include:
Best Body of Work – Videos Natasha T. won for the following videos:

Travel – Natasha heads to the Kennedy Space Center to watch the space shuttle Atlantis launch. Check out the video at http://www.fiestamovement.com/missions/view/115.

Technology – Natasha takes an unusual approach to showing off the technology available in the Fiesta: http://www.fiestamovement.com/missions/view/184.

Style and Design – Natasha sets up a wild photo shoot, all staged around her Fiesta: http://www.fiestamovement.com/missions/view/361.

Social Activism – Natasha uses lavish costumes, arresting imagery and the contrast between gluttony and hunger in the world to illustrate the need for Meals on Wheels: http://www.fiestamovement.com/missions/view/391.

Adventure – Natasha took on an adventure that’s (almost) out of this world, by showing viewers the closest thing to zero gravity at Zero-G.: http://www.fiestamovement.com/missions/view/646.

Best Body of Work – Photos Agent Beto won this category. Using shots from all over San Francisco to pictures taken on a cross-country road trip, Beto made sure to show his Fiesta in the best light. And most importantly, in unique and fun settings. Check out his photostream at www.flickr.com/photos/mooncricketfilms/.

Best Travel Mission Agents Brad and Emma won for their video “Neither Rain Nor Snow.” Acting as “mules” for the day, they delivered packages from Harry & David to the National Guard Armory, and got a “taste” of Harry & David along the way. At the company’s headquarters in Medford, Ore., Brad and Emma worked on the conveyor belt helping make the gourmet treats, than packaged them up and delivered the food: http://www.fiestamovement.com/missions/view/24.

Best Technology Mission Agent Ryan won for his video “Will It Blend?” Taking his Fiesta to Blendtec’s headquarters in Orem, Utah, Ryan got the latest on the technology that makes the company’s blenders puree, whip, chop and blend up whatever you put into them. He was even asked to find something Fiesta-related to blend: http://www.fiestamovement.com/missions/view/118.

Best Style and Design Mission Agent Hillary won for her video “Heavens to Etsy.” Chronicling her journey from California to Tennessee to elope, Hillary shares the couple’s adventures along the way and the honeymoon after. With a little help from the Web site www.etsy.com, they prepped for the wedding before setting out: http://www.fiestamovement.com/missions/view/348.

Best Social Activism Mission Agent Hugh’s video, “To Moms, With Love,” won this award. Working to raise awareness for Mrs. Dude’s Boob Fund, a charity that aids cancer research and stricken families, Hugh sets up camp at the Sioux Empire Fair in South Dakota. Free T-shirts, a good cause and a good heart make this video a winner: http://www.fiestamovement.com/missions/view/488.

Best Adventure Mission Agents Brad and Maria’s video for the mission, “See Ya Later Alligator,” won this award. On a trip to Gatorland theme park in Florida, these agents take a walk on the wild side and learn how to wrestle with alligators. Watch your hands!: http://www.fiestamovement.com/missions/view/525.

Best Entertainment Mission Agent Jody’s video for her mission, “Big Tempin’ with Jordan Carlos,” ruled this category. In a rap video about living the life of a temp, Jody puts her skills to the test – and succeeds. She makes sure to touch on all aspects of office life, in a humorous and creative way: http://www.fiestamovement.com/missions/view/760.

People’s Choice The award went to Courtney Force. As voted on by Fiesta Movement fans and followers at www.fiestamovement.com, Courtney’s missions included organizing a can drive, testing out her feng shui design skills and showing off all the cool technology on her Fiesta. Check out her profile here: http://fiestamovement.com/agents/view/15.

Other awards handed out at a dinner before the ceremony include:

Youngest Person to Vomit in a Fiesta: http://twitter.com/johnherman/statuses/3741091856

Best Prank: http://italktosnakes.blogspot.com/2009/06/car-face-monster.html

Best Cameo Appearance: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t2iE61TfxiE

Best Car Makeover: http://www.flickr.com/photos/fiestavus/3775606054

Most Life-Changing Mission: http://www.fiestamovement.com/missions/view/22

For Fiesta Movement followers who want to see the awards ceremony, Current TV (check your local listings) and Current TV Online – www.current.com – will play highlights from the ceremony today at 9:30 p.m. PST.

Building buzz
As part of the Fiesta Movement social media initiative, 100 young trendsetters are test driving and living with European-spec Ford Fiestas for six months, traveling as agents on special missions. They then go on to relate their experiences through a variety of social media sites.

Throughout the Fiesta Movement, agents have traveled more than 1.4 million miles and have generated more than 6 million YouTube views, nearly 740,000 Flickr views and more than 3.7 million Twitter impressions. The Fiesta Movement and test drive program has resulted in more than 80,000 hand-raisers.

Quotes
“This was the perfect way to say thank you to our agents. We also got to present awards to agents whose videos went above and beyond our expectations, and really captured the spirit of Fiesta.”
– Connie Fontaine, Ford Brand Content and Alliances Manager

Tags: awards, Fiesta Movement, Ford, Ford Fiesta, Ford Motor Company

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Who Pulled Out the Stops in 2009?

Monday, November 30th, 2009

They’ll be telling this story to their children and grandchildren… Six months ago, 100 socially vibrant trendsetters each got behind the wheel of a Ford Fiesta and hit the road. They shared their adventures through www.fiestamovement.com, generating more than 5.7 million YouTube views, more than 710,000 Flickr views and more than 3.4 million Twitter impressions. It’s been a wild ride, with many memorable moments…

The Fiesta Highlight Reel

Agent Brittani had hot chicks washing her car, but not the kind you think. These are bikini-clad and yellow-feathered chicks with oversized, yellow beaks, washing the car. Check it out here: http://www.fiestamovement.com/videos/agent/21/13

Agent Natasha used lavish costumes, arresting imagery and the contrast between gluttony and hunger in the world to illustrate the need for Meals on Wheels. Dressed in costumes, Natasha and some of her friends piled into her Fiesta to deliver food to those in need. Check it out here: http://www.fiestamovement.com/missions/view/391

Agents Marc and Jennifer traveled Detroit and its suburbs to show off their favorite area and set their video to a song about what they saw along the way. Stops include the Detroit Institute of Arts, Tiger Stadium, Michigan Central Station and the Spirit of Detroit statue. Check it out here: http://www.fiestamovement.com/missions/view/16

Agent Jake got his Fiesta back after it’s towed in New York City. After repeated denials the city didn’t have the car, Jake gets to the bottom of the truth, and gets his Fiesta back too. Check it out here: http://www.fiestamovement.com/missions/view/106

Agents Joel and Mandy learned what Team Ford Racing thinks about the new Fiesta, with interviews from Carl Edwards, Greg Biffle and more. The consensus is, they love it! Check it out here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ljSVw23Qcw

Agent Beto created a music video highlighting his experience with the Fiesta. Showing the places he’s been and the people he’s met along the way, the video is a sweet ending to his adventure. Check it out here: http://www.fiestamovement.com/missions/view/772

Agent Deena ordered three items off the SkyMall catalog – a popcorn maker, a cotton candy machine and a sno-cone machine. For the fun part, she tests them out and reviews them. Check it out here: http://www.fiestamovement.com/missions/view/181

Agent Kristina found out what happens when her Fiesta becomes recognizable – someone has a little harmless fun with it and adds a few decorations. Check out her blog about it here: http://italktosnakes.blogspot.com/2009/06/car-face-monster.html

Agent Tim showed just how indestructible his Panasonic Toughbook is. While pretending the computer is a love interest, he puts it through three tests to prove it has the ultimate endurance. Check it out: http://www.fiestamovement.com/missions/view/130

Agent Jody created a rap video about living the life of a temp. She makes sure to hit on all the points of office life, in a humorous and creative way. Check it out here: http://www.fiestamovement.com/missions/view/760

Chance to drive a Fiesta
With a kickoff in May and running through December, five regional test drive teams representing the Fiesta Movement are traveling across the country to engage consumers with the opportunity to test drive a European-spec Ford Fiesta.

The Fiesta Movement test drive is drawing huge numbers by engaging more than 140,000 consumers along the way.

The teams are visiting at least 200 cities over eight months, stopping in small towns and big cities, as well as making appearances at major and regional events and festivals. Information about drive stops, including monthly calendars, is available on www.fiestamovement.com under the “Test Drive” section. Site visitors also can sign up to receive test drive updates as they become available.

Quotes
“Our agents had the ride of a lifetime during the Fiesta Movement. The content they put out there was amazing – they told their Fiesta stories in such creative ways.”
– Connie Fontaine, Ford Brand Content and Alliances Manager

“The Fiesta draws a crowd wherever it goes. The test drives were a perfect way to introduce Fiesta to consumers everywhere.”
– Jeff Eggen, Ford Car Experiential Marketing Manager

Tags: European-spec, Fiesta Movement, Ford, Ford Fiesta, Ford Motor Company

Posted in Ford Cars - text, Ford Fiesta - text | No Comments »

Who’s Your Fave?

Thursday, November 19th, 2009

On the eve of the Los Angeles Auto Show, Ford will celebrate all things Fiesta Movement-related – the agents, social media and, of course, the Ford Fiesta – during an awards celebration at the Palladium in West Hollywood.

Among the awards categories will be a viewer’s favorite, with fans and consumers having the opportunity to select their favorite Fiesta agent. Fans can visit www.fiestamovement.com to cast their vote now, and can vote once daily; voting closes Dec. 1.
The Fiesta Movement Awards Celebration, which takes place Dec. 1, will provide attendees with a sneak peak of the new Fiesta in advance of its reveal at the Los Angeles Auto Show on Dec. 2.

The band Parachute will be on hand for a live performance featuring its hits “She Is Love” and “Under Control” from the debut album Losing Sleep. Fiesta agents are no strangers to Parachute; four of them created a music video for “Under Control” for October missions. The agent videos will debut at the awards celebration during Parachute’s performance.
In keeping with the spirit of the Fiesta Movement and its use of social media platforms, the awards celebration will also play host to the world's largest corporate tweetup.

Building buzz
As part of the Fiesta Movement social media initiative, 100 young trendsetters are test driving and living with a European-spec Ford Fiesta for six months, traveling as agents on special missions. They then go on to relate their experiences through a variety of social media sites.

Throughout the Fiesta Movement, agents have traveled more than 1.1 million miles and have generated more than 5.5 million YouTube views, more than 677,000 Flickr views and more than 3.4 million Twitter impressions. The Fiesta Movement and test drive program has resulted in more than 60,000 hand-raisers.

Quotes
“We’re celebrating the agents and all of the engaging content they created with this awards ceremony. Over the past six months, our agents have showed that they love Fiestas and we are thrilled to give three agents exactly what they want – a Fiesta of their own.”
– Connie Fontaine, Ford Brand Content and Alliances Manager

Tags: Agents, Fiesta Movement, Ford, Ford Fiesta, Ford Motor Company, Hollywood, Los Angeles Auto Show, Losing Sleep, Palladium, Parachute, She Is Love, social media, Tweetup, Under Control

Posted in Ford Cars - text, Ford Fiesta - text | No Comments »

For These Social Media Mavens the Action Isn’t All Online

Tuesday, October 27th, 2009

Fiesta Movement agents have traveled more than 1 million miles, and they surpassed that mark as they were completing their adventure-themed missions for September. These missions weren’t easy, but they were definitely fun and unusual. Agents tried their hand at racing at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, went sailing in Chicago with Outside Magazine and even experienced what zero gravity feels like.

As part of the Fiesta Movement social media initiative, 100 young trendsetters are test driving and living with a European-spec Ford Fiesta for six months, traveling as agents on special missions. They then go on to relate their experiences through a variety of social media sites. Throughout the Fiesta Movement, agents have generated more than 4.8 million YouTube views, more than 600,000 Flickr views and nearly 3.2 million Twitter impressions

Missions accomplished
September missions had agents doing new things that got their blood pumping and their adrenaline running. Fiesta Movement agents are known for trying out the unusual, but these missions took that to a new level.

Videos that pushed the limits of creativity include:

“Outside Magazine: Chicago,” by Derek D., who teamed up with a staffer from Outside Magazine to have an urban adventure in Chicago, complete with a sail on Lake Michigan.

http://fiestamovement.com/missions/view/638

“Who Needs Gravity,” by agent Natasha T., who took on an adventure that’s (almost) out of this world, by showing viewers the closest thing to zero gravity at Zero-G.

http://www.fiestamovement.com/missions/view/646

“What Happens in Vegas, Stays in Vegas…Unless…,” by agents Brad and Emma, who set out on an adventure to Sin City, where they headed to Las Vegas Motor Speedway to see how the Fiesta would look zooming around the track.

http://www.fiestamovement.com/missions/view/637

Operation: Entertainment
Fiesta Movement agents are entering their final month of missions, and October has them having a blast with missions planned around the theme of entertainment. Missions include hanging out in the recording studio with Jukebox the Ghost, creating a music video for the band Parachute and watching them perform live and visiting Turn10 Studio, Microsoft’s racing studio. Throughout the month and after its completion, followers can keep up with agent activity on the Fiesta Movement Web site’s live feed – www.fiestamovement.com

Chance to drive a Fiesta
With a kickoff in May and running through December, five regional test drive teams representing the Fiesta Movement are traveling across the country to engage consumers with the opportunity to test drive a European-spec Ford Fiesta.

The Fiesta Movement test drive is drawing huge numbers by engaging more than 137,000 consumers, with more than 28,000 taking a Fiesta for a test drive.

The teams are visiting at least 200 cities over eight months, stopping in small towns and big cities, as well as making appearances at major and regional events and festivals. Information about drive stops, including monthly calendars, is available on www.fiestamovement.com under the “Test Drive” section. Site visitors also can sign up to receive test drive updates as they become available.

Quotes
“These adventure mission videos are fantastic, in every sense of the word. They put the agents in their element and let them share the Fiesta story in an exciting way.”
– Connie Fontaine, Ford Brand Content and Alliances Manager

“Our test drive tour is achieving exactly what we set out to do – build awareness for the Fiesta and let people experience it. They can see it, touch it and most importantly, experience it.”
– Jeff Eggen, Ford Car Experiential Marketing Manager

Follow the Fiesta Movement:
YouTube: www.youtube.com/fiestamovement
Flickr: www.flickr.com/photos/fiestamovement
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/fiestamovement
Twitter: www.twitter.com/fordfiesta

Tags: Fiesta Movement, Ford, Ford Fiesta, Ford Motor Company, Las Vegas Motor Speedway, live feed, Missions, Outside Magazine, Test Drive, zero gravity, Zero-G

Posted in Ford Cars - text, Ford Drive Experiences - text, Ford Fiesta - text | No Comments »

Everyone Who Is Anyone Will Be There. Will You?

Tuesday, October 6th, 2009

Like, wow. We’re, you know, totally stoked about the Fiesta reveal at the L.A. Auto Show. Everything else is, like, bogus and grodie. I mean, duh!

Ford’s rollout of its next generation of small cars will hit an important milestone when the new Fiesta is revealed in December at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The reveal of the North American-based Ford Fiesta will also mark the culmination of the first phase of the Fiesta Movement.

Set to arrive in dealer showrooms next summer, the Fiesta already can claim more than 50,000 potential customers thanks to the Fiesta Movement.

Fiesta Movement October missions – entertainment
Fiesta Movement agents are entering their final month of missions, and October has them having a blast with missions planned around the theme of entertainment. With 100 missions to choose from, all agents are sure to find an adventure to suit their tastes.

October missions include:

Visiting Turn10 Studio, Microsoft’s racing studio, to get a look behind closed doors at the making of the latest Forza race game featuring the 2011 Ford Fiesta. The agent will get to design his or her own Fiesta, then climb into a three-screen simulator complete with hydraulics to put the new game to the test.
A behind-the-scenes glimpse into the production of a music video with Izza Kizza. The hip-hop artist is creating his music video for the song “They’re Everywhere,” and one lucky Fiesta agent will get to be right there, front and center, for the fun.
Hanging out in the recording studio with Jukebox the Ghost. The indie pop group is recording its new album; a Fiesta agent will be checking out the band's new tunes right along with them.
Several missions for football fanatics, from checking out a Detroit Lions game with a former player, to watching a Philadelphia Eagles warm-up, to hanging out for the team's game and meeting the broadcast group for the Eagles.

During each mission and after its completion, agents upload content to the Fiesta Movement Web site or the social media platform of their choice. Using www.fiestamovement.com, visitors can follow the ride by accessing the live feed feature to keep current on what the agents have to say about Fiesta and their missions.

Spreading the word
After kicking off the Fiesta Movement and embarking on their first missions in May, agents created a big impression in the social media world, including:

More than 4.3 million video views on YouTube
More than 540,000 photo views on Flickr
More than 3 million impressions on Twitter

Fiesta sales success
Fiesta is continuing its sales momentum as Europe’s No. 2-selling car and Ford of Europe’s top-selling vehicle, helping Ford's share in Europe’s main 19 markets increase for the eighth consecutive month.

Nearly 340,000 Fiestas have been sold since the car was launched last autumn, with 21,800 delivered to customers in August. Fiesta was the best-selling foreign vehicle in August in both Italy and France.

In Europe, the Fiesta name has long been synonymous with outstanding drive quality, design and value. The all-new Ford Fiesta will bring its three-decade heritage to U.S. consumers in 2010.

Quote
“This is the perfect time to show the North American Fiesta,” said Sam De La Garza, Ford Fiesta marketing manager. “The Fiesta Movement will have wrapped up, and after hearing so much about this car leading up to the reveal, everyone will finally get to see what we are so excited about.”

Tags: Agents, Fiesta, Fiesta Movement, Ford, Ford Fiesta, Ford Motor Company, LA Auto Show, social media

Posted in Ford Cars - text, Ford Fiesta - text | No Comments »

You Know You’re Seeing a Paradigm Shift When…

Monday, October 5th, 2009

…a product launch is more about the messenger than the message. Need proof? Consider Ford’s groundbreaking Fiesta Movement.

More than nine months before the 2011 Ford Fiesta goes on sale in North America, the new small car can claim more than 50,000 potential customers, and 97 percent of them would be new to Ford.

That’s because Ford took a nontraditional approach with the Fiesta Movement initiative. It’s using a fraction of a typical marketing and advertising budget and relying on social media to drive the buzz. This means huge dividends for the brand – Fiesta awareness is running at the same level of a nameplate that has been on the market for two to three years.

The Fiesta Movement promotes Ford’s new small car through 100 socially vibrant “agents” who have been driving Euro-spec Fiestas and taking part in monthly themed “missions” such as volunteerism, adventure, and style and design. After each mission wraps, the agents relate their experiences through the realm of social media.

Social networking sites allow Ford to meet consumers it might not connect with through traditional advertising, making it easier to open dialogue with a whole new set of consumers. The Fiesta Movement also realizes that people trust people like themselves and that everyone has a car story, and has successfully leveraged this as a platform from which to promote a new car.

Fiesta Movement drives the discussion
Agents are taking advantage of their time in Ford Fiestas, accumulating more than 1 million miles total. And their Fiesta Movement-related content is gaining huge traction on the Internet, with:

More than 4.3 million YouTube views

More than 540,000 Flickr views

More than 3 million Twitter impressions

Through the accompanying nationwide test drive program, more than 162,000 customers have interacted with the Fiesta through walk-arounds and social interactions and 35,000 have taken a test drive.

Fiesta Movement agents are also providing key product insights with Ford. Exterior styling, driving dynamics and unique color offerings top the list of their favorite attributes.

Follow the Fiesta Movement:

YouTube: www.youtube.com/fiestamovement

Flickr: www.flickr.com/photos/fiestamovement

Facebook: www.facebook.com/fiestamovement

Twitter: www.twitter.com/fordfiesta

Quotes
“We didn't break the bank. We didn't use traditional media. We tried something different, and it is working. We're delighted with how Fiesta is gaining traction with consumers. It's a whole new way of introducing a car to market.”
– Connie Fontaine, Ford Brand and Content Alliances manager

Tags: 2011 Fiesta, Agents, Fiesta Movement, Ford, Ford Fiesta, Ford Motor Company, social media

Posted in Ford Cars - text, Ford Fiesta - text | No Comments »

Chantel Lenard – a Live Chat About Ford’s New Small and Medium Vehicles

Wednesday, September 30th, 2009

Chantel Lenard, Ford's Global Car Marketing Manager

Chantel Lenard has a hot job: she is the group marketing manager for Ford’s small and medium vehicles in the U.S.

These two segments are seeing lots of activity from automakers, and Ford will soon offer 10 unique models created from the company’s all-new global C-Car platform, developed under its “One Ford” strategy. The rapid expansion of the company’s B- and C-sized line-up is an exciting and challenging opportunity for Lenard and her team.

Join the chat below, scheduled for Friday, October 2, at 2:30 p.m. EDT to see ask her about these segments.

“Since 2004, the small car market has grown from less than 15 percent of the U.S. market, to nearly 22 percent of industry sales through August of this year”, said Lenard. “Ford is in a unique position to take advantage of that growth, by leveraging our world-class global B and C platforms to bring outstanding small vehicles to market quickly.”

In Europe, Ford cars have a strong reputation for outstanding driving dynamics, eye-catching design, and innovative technology. Leveraging these strengths globally allows Ford economy-of-scale benefits that will provide excellent value to consumers, and technology not typically seen in small cars.

Having held a variety of sales, marketing, and strategy positions with Ford, Lenard describes her present role as one of the most challenging. By the end of 2011, Lenard will oversee the launch of the Ford Fiesta, the all new, next-generation Ford Focus sedan and five-door hatchback, a battery-electric Focus, the C-MAX, and a Mercury C-sedan.

We make it easy for you to share this story with your friends; simply click on the “share this” method of your choice at the top right corner of this page. You can also click here to sign up for updates from Ford Motor Company, and click here to add an RSS feed to your regular home page.

Tags: C-MAX, Ford, Ford Fiesta, Ford Focus, Ford Motor Company, Mercury

Posted in Ford Cars - text, Ford Fiesta - text, Ford Quality - text | No Comments »

Don’t Look Now – ‘Hot Magenta’ is the New Black

Thursday, September 17th, 2009

2011 Fiesta to Launch with Bold New Colors

Henry Ford – pioneering populist and entrepreneur extraordinaire – famously quipped that customers can have their cars in “any color so long as it is black.” Well, that might’ve worked for folks during the Great Depression (wasn’t everything in black and white back then?), but customers of the Great Recession want a more cheerful hue. Who can blame them? Even the Goth girl next door needs a splash of “passion orange” in her life.

Still skeptical? Look around. Fashion magazines are heralding bright colors this fall. Bold shades are being offered in an increasing array of consumer products – from laptop computers to vacuums to stand mixers for the kitchen.

Not Your Great-Granddad’s Ford
Ford is experiencing the trend, too, with high demand for vehicle colors such as the 2010 Mustang in “Grabber Blue” and the F-150 SVT Raptor in “Molten Orange.” When the 2011 Ford Fiesta goes on sale next summer, consumers will have bright colors to choose from, including “Bright Magenta” and “Lime Squeeze.” In the U.S. already, Ford is seeing strong sales for cars in brilliant colors:

Nearly four in 10 (39 percent) customers purchasing the new Ford F-150 SVT Raptor are choosing “Molten Orange.”

New “Grabber Blue” Ford Mustangs are exceeding sales projections, accounting for roughly 10 percent of total 2010 Mustang sales so far.

The Ford Fiesta is coming to the United States with even bolder colors after seeing drivers around the globe gravitate to a palette of brilliant hues:

In Asia, Fiesta buyers’ third most favorite color (15 percent of sales) is an eye-popping blue called “Vision,” followed by the lime green “Squeeze” (11 percent) with the top selling color being “Moondust Silver.” In China, nearly three in 10 (28 percent) Fiestas purchased are “Passion Orange,” making it far and away the favorite choice.

Right behind “Panther Black” and “Silver”, Europeans are selecting “Hot Magenta” and “Vision” as their third and fourth most favorite colors, each accounting for about 10 percent of sales across Europe.

In fact, for the first time with any Ford vehicle in Europe, Fiesta buyers are saying that vehicle color was among the top 10 reasons for purchasing the car, according to Ford research.

Since May, 100 Fiesta agents have traveled more than 800,000 miles around the country, primarily driving “Hot Magenta” and “Squeeze” colored Fiestas as part of Ford’s Fiesta Movement (www.fiestamovement.com) The Euro-spec Fiestas are turning heads with their bold colors.

Quotes:

“Brilliant colors are transforming the norms in how we think about all sorts of products, allowing people to express individuality more and more through the electronics they use and the cars they drive. Color is a simple way to allow people to add a personal touch to their everyday lives – something that speaks to them and expresses a little of their personality.”
– Susan Swek, Ford Group Chief Designer, Color and Materials Design

“Almost everywhere I go, someone comments on the color (of her Lime Squeeze Ford Fiesta). Women love it, and some people even show me how it matches their cell phone. It makes me think of spring. There’s a lot of life in it. I think people are excited about having more color options these days. It allows people to express their personalities more.”
– Hilary McHone, Ford Fiesta agent and Brooklyn photographer, who had her wedding dress made this summer to match the lime green

Tags: 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor, 2010 Ford Mustang, Fiesta Movement, Ford Fiesta, Fordmotorcompany

Posted in Ford Cars - text, Ford Fiesta - text, Ford Quality - text | No Comments »

FORD FIESTA TAKES ON ESPN’S X GAMES

Thursday, July 2nd, 2009

The new Fiesta Rallycross cars make their debut with all-star driver lineup in ESPN’s X Games 15.

The Fiesta makes its U.S. motorsport debut with the Swedish Olsbergs Motor Sport Evolution (MSE) race team in July’s Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in Colorado. The team will also compete in ESPN’s X Games 15 in Los Angeles, Calif., July 30 – August 2 with famous Swedish driver Kenny Brack behind the wheel of a 2009 Fiesta 3-door hatchback.

Olsbergs MSE drivers Tanner Foust and Brian Deegan will also field two Ford Fiestas for ROCKSTAR Energy Drink. Tanner Foust will drive a race-prepared 2009 Fiesta 5-door hatchback and Brian Deegan, who has competed at every X Games rally event, will drive a 2008 Fiesta 3-door hatchback.

All three Fiestas will comply with Rally America Open Class specifications.

The X Games 15 will be covered live on ESPN's family of networks, including ABC, as well as across ESPN's many digital media assets, including Xgames.com (or you can use ESPN.com/action or simply ESPN.com) and ESPN360.com.

About Kenny Brack
Brack was the 1998 IndyCar Series champion and was a factory driver for Ford Racing’s Champ Car entry Rahal Letterman Racing (RLR). Brack sustained significant injures in a major accident at Texas Motor Speedway in 2003 while driving for RLR, but he returned to the car at the Indy 500 in 2005, subbing for the injured Buddy Rice and posting the fastest qualifying speed (227.598 mph) of the field.

About Tanner Foust
In addition to winning the both the 2007 and 2008 Formula Drift Pro Drift Championship, he also took the Silver medal as runner-up in the 2008 Summer X Games Pro Rally race. Foust won the 2007 X Games Gold Medal in the Pro Rally for the ROCKSTAR Energy Rally team. He was selected to represent Team USA in the annual Race of Champions at Wembley Stadium in London, UK this past December. He teamed with Ford Racing NASCAR star Carl Edwards to do battle with the world's fastest drivers and riders from Formula One, World Rally Championship, Superbike and Touring Car racing.

About Brian Deegan
Brian Deegan is a 10-time medalist at the X Games, including three gold medals for Moto X Best Trick (2002, 2003, 2005). Earlier this year, Deegan launched a Pro-Lite class off road truck team in Championship Off-Road Racing (COOR) under a newly formed ROCKSTAR/Metal Mulisha/Caffaro Motorsports banner. In 2004, he was named one of the Top 100 Action Sports Stars by ESPN.

Quotes

“The new Fiesta is already creating headlines around the world. The announcement that it would compete at Pikes Peak was greeted so positively by enthusiasts everywhere. Now, to back it up with competition at the X Games will just create even more buzz for the car.”
- Brian Wolfe, Director of Ford North America Motorsport

"We are very excited to see the Fiesta competing not only at the Pikes Peak Hill Climb, but also at the X Games in LA. The competition will be extremely strong in both events, but we’ve put together a strong team with the ROCKSTAR/BF Goodrich Tires Fiestas and our all-star drivers. The Olsbergs Motor Sport Evolution race team is doing an outstanding job in preparing the cars for both of these world famous events."
- Jost Capito, Director of Ford Global Motorsport Business Development

“Pikes Peak and the X Games give our agents two more exciting events to attend and show off their Fiesta’s.”
- Connie Fontaine, Brand Content and Alliance Manager for Ford Motor Company

Links

The Fiesta Movement
Ford Racing

Tags: 2009 Fiesta, Brian Deegan, ESPN, Ford, Ford Fiesta, Ford Motor Company, Ford Racing, Kenny Brack, Olsbergs Motor Sport Evolution, Tanner Foust, X Games

Posted in Ford Fiesta - text | No Comments »

THE FIESTA MOVEMENT LAUNCHES IN NYC

Monday, April 6th, 2009

Ford’s social media campaign aimed at Millennials kicks off in New York City with two events for bloggers.

The Fiesta Movement, which is aimed at introducing Millennials to a new generation of global small cars, rolls into New York’s Times Square on April 7, 2009, just prior to the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS). The campaign will engage the city’s “social media influencers” to spread the word about Fiesta’s upcoming 2010 North American launch.

Millennials –those born between 1979 and 1995– are active users of online networks like Twitter, Facebook, Flickr and YouTube. Two main Fiesta Movement events, Influencer Drives and a Ford Fiesta! Tweet Up, will allow these Gen-Y influencers to use these technologies to share their experiences digitally and in real-time.

Influencer Drives
Approximately 20 social media, lifestyle and trendsetter bloggers will be invited to experience the Ford Fiesta first hand through a test drive or ride along in Manhattan. Members of the Ford Fiesta marketing and communications team will act as chauffeurs and help personalize each individuals’ Fiesta experience as they cruise about the city - a staff member will be on hand to capture each ride on video.

Ford Fiesta! Tweet Up
The Ford Fiesta Tweet Up, hosted by Scott Monty (Ford), Rohit Bhargava (Influential Marketing Blog), Ray Wert (Jalopnik), Adam Hirsh (Mashable), Julia Roy (Undercurrent) and other notable NYC based online influentials, will be held from 6 – 8pm at Nero on Gansevoort Street. Attendees will have the opportunity to get a tour of the vehicle, chat with the hosts and contribute Fiesta Movement challenge ideas in real time via the Twitter hashtag #fiestamovement.

Throughout the two events, both bloggers and attending Fiesta 100 agents will be encouraged to share their thoughts and experiences by uploading videos and photos via social networks, writing blog posts and “live Tweeting” throughout the Fiesta Movement campaign using the hashtag #fiestamovement.

Social Media Links
Fiesta Movement on Facebook
Fiesta Movement on Twitter
Fiesta Movement on YouTube
Fiesta Movement on Flickr

Tags: 2011 Fiesta, Fiesta Movement, Ford Fiesta, Ford Motor Company, Millennial, New York International Auto Show, NYIAS

Posted in A Year In Review: 2009, Ford Fiesta - text | No Comments »

MILLENNIALS FIRST TO DRIVE NEW FIESTA

Friday, February 20th, 2009

Ford Targets 100 Socially-Networked Millennials for First Drive of Ford's New Small Car, the Fiesta

Ford is rebranding the driving experience during their upcoming social media campaign called the “Fiesta Movement.” The movement is strategically designed to spread the word and generate buzz about the Fiesta’s upcoming 2010 North American launch.

Aside from being voted “Car of the Year 2009” by What Car? Magazine, in the European auto market the Fiesta has strong customer loyalty and brand recognition for its performance, design and value.

The Fiesta Movement focuses on the emerging market force and highly influential Millennial group; those born between 1979 and 1995. With over 11,000 Millennials reaching driving age every day, they have been identified as one of the most significant consumer groups since the Baby Boomers.

Selected from over 1,500 applications, 100 Millennials have been chosen by Ford to act as special “agents” tasked to complete their individual Ford Fiesta missions. Throughout the missions they’re to use technology to capture and share their experiences digitally by connecting with their social networks through Facebook, Flickr and YouTube.

Overall, the agents’ final mission and main goal of the Fiesta Movement is to produce socially authentic and genuine driving experiences through the use of social media.

Quotes:

“For Millennials, social media is just a part of life. In fact, statistics show that for those born after 1980, 62 percent of the content they consume comes from someone they know personally. The missions will take them to new places, to meet new people and to experience new things in their Fiesta.”

“Social networks are becoming an increasingly important way to talk to consumers, especially for the Millennial generation. According to statistics from a Universal McCann Comparative Study on social media trends, 45 percent of online users have started a blog, 57 percent have joined a social network and 55 percent have uploaded photos.”

“Since it was introduced last August, sales of the new Fiesta have totaled more than 89,000 units across the main European markets. That success continued into 2009, with January sales of more than 28,000 vehicles.”

“The Fiestas engaged in the Movement campaign are European-specification vehicles, updated for use in the U.S. The language in the message center was changed from German to English and the speedometer was changed from kilometers to miles per hour, but the voice for the Bluetooth functionality has a British accent!”

Links:

News Release: FORD TARGETS 100 SOCIALLY-NETWORKED MILLENNIALS FOR FIRST DRIVE OF FORD’S NEW SMALL CAR, FIESTA

Tags: , 2010 Fiesta, Fiesta Movement, Ford Fiesta, Ford Motor Company, Millennial, performance, quality

Posted in Ford Fiesta - text | No Comments »

Affordable Fuel Efficiency

Sunday, January 11th, 2009

Ford aggressively delivering affordable fuel efficiency to millions of consumers.

Studies show that fuel economy is one of the most important factors for car buyers. By investing in advanced technologies and products to improve fuel efficiency over the next four years, Ford will leverage the company’s global product strengths and bring more, smaller, fuel-efficient vehicles to the U.S. market.

Ford is accelerating the introduction of more fuel-efficient vehicles – including a broader range of hybrid-electric vehicles and the introduction of plug-in hybrid and full electric vehicles. Improved fuel economy is evident in Ford’s new and upcoming vehicles:

The 2009 Ford Flex is the most fuel-efficient standard seven-passenger vehicle on the market.

The 2009 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner deliver best-in-class highway fuel economy; the hybrid versions are the most fuel-efficient utility vehicles available.

The new 2009 F-150 offers fuel economy gains as high as 12 percent versus the prior model year; the SFE package delivers unsurpassed fuel economy.

The 2009 Ford Focus delivers highway fuel economy of up to 35 mpg.

The 2010 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan Hybrids are America’s most fuel efficient mid-size sedans; both feature SmartGauge™ with EcoGuide, a new instrument cluster execution that gives hybrid owners a more connected, fuel-efficient driving experience by coaching them on how to optimize performance.

The 2010 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan feature the all-new fuel-efficient Duratec 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine.

EcoBoost engine technology, which will available on 80 percent of the lineup by 2013, will deliver up to 20 percent fuel economy savings, up to 15 percent CO2 reductions and a boost in driving enjoyment compared to larger displacement engines.

The new Transit Connect van will offer the top mileage in the segment, making it easy for small businesses and other users to increase their fuel economy.

The new Ford Fiesta will offer further improvements in fuel economy.

The new global Ford Focus will be more fuel-efficient than the current North American model through new direct injection engine technology and a new six-speed transmission.

Related Link
SmartGauge with EcoGuide Fact Sheet (PDF)

Tags: 2009 F-150, environment, Ford Escape, Ford Fiesta, Ford Flex, Ford Focus, Ford Fusion, fuel efficiency, Mercury Mariner, Mercury Milan Hybrids

Posted in Electrification, Ford and the Environment - text | No Comments »

THE FIESTA MOVEMENT

Sunday, January 11th, 2009

Ford asks tech-savvy consumers to share their Fiesta driving experience socially.

In a new program dubbed “Fiesta Movement”, Ford will choose up to 100 vehicle enthusiasts to drive a Fiesta and share their hands-on experience online at Facebook, Flickr and YouTube. The pre-launch program is like no other as it is uniquely focused on social media – indicative of the progressive marketing ideas taking shape at Ford. Consumers will be able to connect to the Fiesta discussion, and capture and share their experiences digitally.

Starting in late spring, the chosen consumers, called “agents”, will be asked to complete “missions” in their Fiesta. The missions take them to new places, to meet new people and to experience new things, all while bringing their friends and followers along for the ride. As well, additional consumers will also get a hands-on experience with the Fiesta in the form of test drives -100,000 in all.

Applications for those who want to be an “agent” in the Fiesta Movement can be found online at fiestamovement.com or fordvehicles.com/2011fiesta. The application also asks applicants to submit a two to five minute video explaining why they want the opportunity to become part of the Fiesta Movement. Applications will be accepted through March 13, 2009.

Quotes

“It’s one thing to talk about the vehicle, but it’s another to put people into the vehicle and let them experience it. To give people the hands-on experience to get excited about the Fiesta this early, is a great opportunity.”
- Connie Fontaine, Ford Brand Content and Alliances Manager

“This is another demonstration of ‘One Ford.’ Now that we are leveraging our global reach, this presents a unique opportunity. It’s already been launched in Europe with success, and now it’s our turn.”
- Sam De La Garza, Small Car Marketing Manager

“By focusing on social networks, the Fiesta Movement embraces a fundamental shift in the way people are communicating. The Fiesta brand is already being talked about…and we want to keep the conversation moving.”
- Sam De La Garza, Small Car Marketing Manager

Tags: Consumer reviews, Facebook, Fiesta Movement, Flickr, Ford Fiesta, social media, YouTube

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FORD FIESTA’S FAST START

Thursday, January 8th, 2009

The new global Fiesta becomes Ford’s second-best selling vehicle in Europe behind the Focus.

Early strong sales of Ford’s stylish subcompact have helped Ford’s European operations increase market share in November. This bodes well, as the Fiesta is poised to launch in China, Australia and New Zealand in the first quarter of 2009, and in the United States in early 2010. The upscale features and trim packages are drawing a broader range of customers, of which, approximately half choose the Titanium and Ghia trim levels.

In the United Kingdom alone, the Fiesta, including the new version and outgoing model, was the top-selling vehicle in November among all automakers, capturing 6.2 percent of the total new car market. This represents the Fiesta’s highest market share in the U.K. since 1998.

Currently on sale in Europe and South Africa, Ford has sold more than 42,200 new Fiestas in its first two months on sale, despite soft overall industry sales. In total, Ford of Europe sold 95,700 vehicles in November across its 19 European markets. This was down 21.4 percent versus November 2007, but the company again outperformed the industry by increasing its market share to 8.8 percent, up 0.5 percentage points. Ford is now firmly established as the No. 2 brand in Europe’s main 19 markets behind only Volkswagen.

Quotes

“After only two months since its introduction, the Fiesta is already our second-best selling model behind the Focus. In the U.K., the Fiesta’s market share for November was the highest since January 1998 for the nameplate, and the new Fiesta attracted 1,000 more retail British buyers than the previous model in November 2007. This is a promising start for our all-new global model.”
- Ingvar Sviggum, Ford of Europe Marketing, Sales and Service Vice President

Tags: Fiesta, Ford Fiesta, global small car

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NEW PRODUCTS

Tuesday, December 2nd, 2008

In 2010 Ford Reveals Exciting New Product Developments

What’s on the horizon for Ford? Here’s a glimpse at some fuel efficient, new product developments scheduled for 2010.

With up to 10 percent higher mileage, the new Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan are available in efficient six-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid models get up to 47 mph in electric mode with a range of 700 miles on a tank of gas.

Drivers can look forward to an American version of the award winning and highly fuel efficient European Fiesta hitting the streets of the U.S. in 2010. Features such as front, side, curtain and even driver knee airbags, electric power steering and a front strut/twist beam rear suspension have earned it kudos from AutoWeek magazine, which said: “Clearly, Ford has learned how to make cars that are among the best available – and it’s coming to play on American roads.”

Tags: Ford Fiesta, Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan

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The All-New Ford Fiesta

Monday, November 24th, 2008

The All-New Ford Fiesta: Production Begins Of a Small Vehicle Going Global

[media.ford.com: Press Release]

Volume production of the new Ford Fiesta, the first of a generation of new global small Ford cars, started at the company's Cologne plant in Germany. This Fiesta has been conceived and developed to meet the demands and expectations of customers around the world. It is also the blueprint for future Ford global product development, bringing together Europe, the Americas and Asia.

Edmunds - Inside Line: Ford Fiesta Global Car Production Begins In Germany

Edmunds - Green Car Advisor: First New-Generation Global Ford Fiesta Rolls Off German Production Line

Autoblog Green: Ford Starts Production of Global Fiesta in Germany

Tags: Ford Fiesta, global, production

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A GLOBAL APPROACH TO QUALITY

Monday, February 25th, 2008

Ford Closes the Gap on Asian Automakers

Ford's recent year-end Global Quality Research System survey (GQRS) shows that Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan overtook both Toyota Camry and Honda Accord to have the lowest number of TGW, or Things Gone Wrong, for any of the company's first-year vehicles.

Mercury Milan had 934 TGW, and Ford Fusion had 1,088 TGW versus Toyota’s Camry with 1,311 and Honda’s Accord at 1,221. The rankings reflect things gone wrong per 1,000 vehicles at three months service.

The GQRS results are just one example of Ford’s desire to close the gap on Asian carmakers by adopting a global approach to business and product development.

Under CEO Alan Mulally, Ford created a single, global management team to be able to leverage its global assets by eliminating duplication, implementing best practices and a systematic approach to quality, and utilizing common components for the advantage of scale.

The new integrated approach can be seen in the upcoming Fiesta, Ford’s first global car. The Ford Fiesta was designed and produced in Europe where it will launch in the fall of 2008. It is expected to go into production in Asia, Australia, and North and South America by 2010. Selling one high-volume vehicle helps Ford cut costs, solidify the global brand and continue to make quality strides.

Tags: automotive quality, customer satisfaction, Ford Fiesta, Ford Fusion, Ford Verve, global automotive manufacturing, Global Cars, global operations, GQRS, Mercury Milan, TGW Alan Mulally

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GREEN ELECTRIC POWER

Thursday, February 21st, 2008

Ford’s plant in Cologne, Germany, uses renewable electricity

Fully renewable, green electric power will cover the demands of Ford’s manufacturing and engineering facilities in Cologne, Germany, effectively reducing the plant’s CO₂ emissions by 190,000 tons per year.

Part of a broader plan to minimize Ford’s CO₂ footprint throughout its European operations, the energy – which comes from environmentally friendly sources in Scandinavia – will be used in the assembly of Ford’s Fusion and Fiesta vehicles as well as to power Ford’s Cologne-Niehl operations, specifically the customer service, product development, manufacturing and administrative departments.

Some key facts demonstrate Ford’s commitment to sustainable energy:

Ford has reduced its global operational energy use by 27 percent overall, or 12 percent per vehicle built since 2000.

In the same time, CO₂ emissions have been cut by 31 percent, or 16 percent per vehicle built and water use has decreased by more than 25 percent, or 11 percent per vehicle built.

Hydro, solar, wind and geo-thermal power, landfill gas and waste gases supply approximately 3 percent of Ford’s global energy needs.

Two wind turbines installed in May 2004 at its Dagenham diesel engine production center in the U.K. provide enough electricity for most of the electrical power needs of the plant, which produces approximately one million diesel engines a year.

Tags: Environmentally friendly energy, Ford Cologne-Niehl, Ford Fiesta, Ford Fusion, global energy resources, green automotive manufacturing, green electricity, reduced CO2, renewable electricity, renewable energy, sustainable resources

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CONCEPT BECOMES REALITY

Friday, February 15th, 2008

Ford confirms Fiesta as global name for small car.

Ford’s new-generation global small car to be previewed at 2008 Geneva Motor Show. Its worldwide name is confirmed – Ford Fiesta.

The new Ford Fiesta brings the Verve Concept exterior and interior styling to production reality, demonstrating that small cars can be stylish, sophisticated and emotional. It rejects the notion that an affordable small car has to be a commodity.

Designed and developed in Europe for customers in Europe, Asia, South Africa, Australia and the Americas between 2008 and 2010, the new Fiesta is the first major product of Ford’s new global product development process.

In Europe, the new Fiesta will debut first in production guise at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show in March and will go on sale in fall 2008 in three and five-door hatchback body styles. By 2010, the new Fiesta will be on sale in markets across Europe, Asia, South Africa, Australia and North America in a variety of regionally tailored models derived from a common platform.

Tags: 2008 Geneva Motor Show, Fiesta, Ford Fiesta, global small car, Verve concept

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FIESTA FOREVER

Friday, February 15th, 2008

12 Ford Fiesta Facts:

The worldwide name is confirmed – Ford Fiesta

Next generation, all-new global small car signals fresh chapter in Ford Fiesta story

Stylish 'kinetic design' and dynamic flair combines with traditional Ford strengths to deliver confident, contemporary, fun-to-drive package

Fiesta brings a host of big-car features to the small car segment for the first time

Fiesta stays compact but is lighter and stronger. Ultra high-strength steels and a comprehensive safety package that includes a driver's knee airbag

Exciting three-door body remains true to Verve Concept

Futuristic interior from Verve Concept becomes production reality, including integrated HMI center stack inspired by mobile phones

113 HP (115 PS) Duratec 1.6-liter Ti-VCT gasoline engine joins Fiesta range; one of five fuel efficient and clean engines

Fiesta will expand Ford ECOnetic ultra-low CO2 range, delivering optimized reduction in CO2 emissions.

New Fiesta is the first product of Ford’s new global product development process, with versions due for launch in Europe in 2008, and in Asia and the Americas between 2008 and 2010

5 Efficient Powertrain Choices at launch from 68 PS Duratorq TDCi diesel to new Duratec 1.6-liter Ti-VCT petrol engine which delivers low emissions.

New technology highlights include keyless vehicle technology, 'Ford Power' engine start button, Ford Easyfuel capless refueling, USB connectivity and ambient interior lighting

Tags: 2008 Geneva Motor Show, Fiesta, Ford Fiesta, global small car, Verve concept

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GLOBAL DESIGN VISION

Saturday, January 12th, 2008

Ford’s future small car is being developed as a global car – led by the Verve concept

Verve was developed through Ford’s new global product development system. Ford is building on its European small-car expertise to stake a bigger claim in this critically important segment. Ford’s celebrated small car lineup in Europe includes such top-sellers as the Ford Focus, Fiesta and Ka.

Verve provides a vision for a new world standard for quality, design and comfort. This strategy gives Verve a bold, modern, design along with sophisticated electronics, premium materials, surprising functional space and a fuel-efficient 4-cylinder engine – all previously unseen in the small car segment.

Ford maintains small-car leadership in Europe with vehicles set apart by their world-class driving dynamics and dynamic designs.

With more than five million vehicles produced in Europe since it was launched in 1998, the Ford Focus is one of the only vehicles in the world to be named “Car of the Year” both in Europe and in North America. It is Ford’s perennial top seller in Europe and, in 2007, was Europe’s top-selling car in its class.

The Ford Fiesta – which is smaller than the Focus – debuted in 1976, and it has sold more than 12 million units in Europe.

The iconic Ford Ka redefined the small city car sector in Europe with its eye-catching and enduring design and fun-to-drive character when it was introduced more than 11 years ago. Sales remain strong – with more than 1 million cars sold.

Tags: European small cars, Ford Fiesta, Ford Focus, Ford Ka, Ford Verve concept, global design, global product development, small car

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Recent updates

Posts Tagged ‘Ford Fiesta’

The new Fiesta Rallycross cars make their debut with all-star driver lineup in ESPN’s X Games 15.

Ford’s social media campaign aimed at Millennials kicks off in New York City with two events for bloggers.

Ford Targets 100 Socially-Networked Millennials for First Drive of Ford's New Small Car, the Fiesta

Ford aggressively delivering affordable fuel efficiency to millions of consumers.

Ford asks tech-savvy consumers to share their Fiesta driving experience socially.

The new global Fiesta becomes Ford’s second-best selling vehicle in Europe behind the Focus.

In 2010 Ford Reveals Exciting New Product Developments

The All-New Ford Fiesta: Production Begins Of a Small Vehicle Going Global

Ford Closes the Gap on Asian Automakers

Ford’s plant in Cologne, Germany, uses renewable electricity

Ford confirms Fiesta as global name for small car.

12 Ford Fiesta Facts:

Ford’s future small car is being developed as a global car – led by the Verve concept

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