It’s one of your worst nightmares – taking that ride downtown with the boys in blue for further questioning. You’ve been read your Miranda Rights and unceremoniously ushered into the back seat of a squad car.
“Wow,” you say, hoping to dispel the tension between you and the law enforcement officials in the front seat. “This is a really nice police car.”
“We get that a lot,” says Officer O’Brien.
He tells you the all-new, purpose-built Ford Police Interceptor sedan exceeds the durability, safety, performance and fuel economy of the industry’s leading police car – the Ford Crown Victoria.
He adds that Ford, the police vehicle market leader for 15 years, specifically designed and engineered an all-new Police Interceptor to handle the rigors of police work, including industry-leading powertrain, safety and technology innovations.
“Nice,” you say, temporarily forgetting that you’re under arrest.
You learn that Ford will also add a second Police Interceptor to the lineup, a utility vehicle to provide customers a choice of the best vehicle to suit their needs. More details will be released in the third quarter of this year.
“Very cool,” you say, thinking everything’s going to be a-okay.
To develop the all-new Police Interceptor, Ford engineers worked hand-in-hand with Ford’s Police Advisory Board of law enforcement professionals, which provided input on key vehicle attributes such as safety, performance, durability, driver comfort and functionality.
“That was very thoughtful of them to do that,” you say.
“You don’t know the half of it, buddy,” O’Brien says as the car pulls up to the station.
A focus on safety
Continuing Ford’s safety leadership includes engineering the Police Interceptor to pass 75-mph rear-end crash testing. Currently, the Crown Victoria Police Interceptor is the only pursuit sedan to meet this test.
The new Police Interceptor also features Ford’s exclusive Safety Canopy® side-curtain air bag rollover protection system to help protect front and rear outboard passengers in both rollover and side-impact crashes. The multiple side-curtain air bags use Ford’s unique Roll Fold technology to help them slip between the occupant and the side window.
Increased power, enhanced sophistication
Ford’s Police Interceptor engine strategy will provide a V-6 lineup that performs equal to or better than V-8 engines. The lineup comes with two powertrain options, allowing police to choose the powerhouse that best meets their patrol requirements.
A highly efficient 3.5-liter V-6 engine delivering at least 263 horsepower and E85 compatibility is 25 percent more efficient than the 4.6-liter Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) V-8 offered in the current Crown Victoria Police Interceptor.
Plus, an all-new 3.5-liter EcoBoost™ V-6 twin-turbocharged, direct-injection engine will deliver at least 365 horsepower and 350 ft.-lb. of torque across a broad rpm range.
EcoBoost brings municipalities and police fleet administrators the first ultra high-performance, yet environmentally friendly, police pursuit vehicle. Offering performance that bests normally aspirated V-8 powered police cruisers and comparable fuel economy and CO2 emissions to the standard V-6, EcoBoost represents a triple-win for police departments, the tax-paying constituents they serve and the environment they help collectively to preserve.
A high-capacity six-speed SelectShift Automatic™ transmission delivers the power of EcoBoost to the road via the sophisticated torque-sensing all-wheel-drive system.
Rigidly tested, police-tuned
Throughout its development, Ford’s new Police Interceptor has been put through the paces, undergoing a battery of torture tests to ensure its individual components can hold up to the rigorous driving styles of police professionals.
Certification testing designed by the Michigan State Police and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department evaluates the durability and capability of the vehicle through a variety of tests where the car’s systems are pushed to the limits for nearly an hour and a half – far exceeding the demands most patrol cars ever experience.
To meet the rigors of the durability testing, the brakes have been increased in size and performance. The cooling package is purpose-built as well, featuring a heavy-duty alternator and larger radiator. Its honeycomb grille is designed to work in harmony with the interior components, offering more air flow throughout the vehicle. Plus, the standard 18-inch steel wheels are vented, designed to work in concert with the enhanced brake system.
Functional, inside and out
Special features continue inside, too.
Front seats have been specially designed, with a lower bolster removed to better accommodate officers’ utility belts. Inserted into the seatback are anti-stab plates, designed to protect front-seat occupants.
The Police Interceptor second row also has been optimized to address police-specific needs.
The vinyl seats are specially sculpted and set back to improve second-row space and maximize legroom. The back door hinges are modified to open up another 10 degrees versus traditional rear doors.
The Ford Police Interceptor also is equipped with a column shift specifically designed so the console area is free for the ever-increasing amounts of aftermarket police equipment necessary for officers to do their jobs.
The new vehicle also features:
BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System)
Cross Traffic Alert
Rear View Camera System
Reverse Sensing System
Standard AdvanceTrac® ESC (electronic stability control)
Ford SYNC®
Ford’s new Police Interceptor sedan will be manufactured at Ford’s Chicago (Ill.) Assembly Plant and will be offered without interruption when production of the Crown Victoria Police Interceptor ends in late 2011.
Quotes
“Police nationwide asked for a new kind of weapon in the battle for public safety, and Ford is answering the call with a purpose-built vehicle – engineered and built in America – that’s as dynamic as it is durable.”
– Mark Fields, Ford President of The Americas
“Their feedback mattered to us. Safety and durability were at the top of their list. So safety and durability were at the top of ours.”
– Scott Tobin, Ford Vehicle Line Director for Cars and Crossovers
“We have an extremely powerful standard engine, and to top that off, we also offer our exclusive EcoBoost technology. Both are designed for the severe-duty cycle that police engage in on a daily basis.”
– Scott Tobin, Ford Vehicle Line Director for Cars and Crossovers
“Working with our police partners, we’ve considered every detail. Approximately 90 percent of the interior has been redesigned to meet the needs of our special police customers.”
– Ken Czubay, Ford Vice President of Marketing, Sales and Service
“Ford remains committed to leading the police vehicle market, and our new Police Interceptor demonstrates how much engineering and innovation we’re willing to invest to address the unique needs of those who protect and serve communities throughout America.”
– Mark Fields, Ford President of The Americas
“This vehicle is pursuit-ready. It’s no nonsense, through and through.”
Fuel efficiency isn’t a advantage usually attributed to heavy duty work trucks… until now.
The all-new 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty delivers best-in-class torque, horsepower, towing and payload capability – and does it all more efficiently, resulting in less fuel usage and extended maintenance intervals that can translate directly into bottom-line savings for customers.
All-new diesel and gas engine powertrains are the backbone of the 2011 Super Duty's best-in-class towing (26,400 pounds for F-550 chassis cab with fifth-wheel hitch) and payload capability (6,520 pounds for F-350 dual rear-wheel pickup). The Ford-designed, Ford-engineered and Ford-built 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 turbocharged diesel engine produces best-in-class 735 ft.-lb. of torque at 1,600 rpm and best-in-class 390 horsepower at 2,800 rpm. The new engine is compatible up to B20 biodiesel fuel as well.
The new 6.2-liter V-8 gasoline engine also boasts best-in-class numbers of 405 ft.-lb. of torque at 4,500 rpm and 385 horsepower at 5,500 rpm. The new engine is E85 compatible.
Mated to each engine is the all-new 6R140 heavy-duty TorqShift six-speed automatic transmission. The added feature content and overall efficiency of the transmission are the main reasons for the improved fuel economy. The all-new 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty equipped with the 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel averages an 18 percent improvement for pickup models and up to 25 percent improvement for chassis cabs versus 2010 models. Trucks equipped with new base 6.2-liter V-8 gas engine average a 15 percent improvement versus 2010 models.
Here's a closer look at what was achieved and the benefits to the customer:
New torque converter that locks at a far lower rpm than the competition: The new, stronger torque converter is core to the improved transmission performance. One key component is the long-travel turbine damper that allows the transmission to lock earlier, at a lower rpm, which translates to less slip and more fuel efficiency. The new transmission locks down to 900 rpm, which is about 200 rpm less than the outgoing product and more than 100 rpm less than competitors. The second key component of the torque converter is the closed-piston design. This design allows for better control of the lock-up clutch, which enables controlled converter clutch slip during lock-to-lock upshifts that are seamless to the customer.
– Customer fuel economy benefit: Locked converter operation at lower speeds means less wasted heat energy and better fuel economy.
Optimized shift and converter lock-up schedule: After analyzing the entire shift schedule, Ford calibration engineers fine-tuned it by measuring and optimizing the fuel flow. The system recognizes light or heavy throttle use, and puts the transmission in the right gear for best performance and efficiency. The entire operating range has been optimized to get the best fuel economy by locking up the converter as soon as possible and as much as possible.
– Customer fuel economy benefit: Optimizing the shift schedule and lock schedule ensures customers automatically operate in the most efficient gears and save fuel.
Gearing and double-overdrive: The 6R140 transmission has a ratio span of about 5.9, which is quite a bit wider than competitors. This wider span means the transmission has a deeper first gear that allows customers to get the load moving quicker, and a tall overdrive ratio for good highway efficiency. While the gearing itself is important, the key to overall efficiency is matching that gearing to the correct axle. With the diesel engine, up to four axle ratios are available on the pickups – 3.31, 3.55, 3.73 and 4.30. Matching up the gearing with the right axles means better overall efficiency.
– Customer fuel economy benefit: The double-overdrive gear means even if a customer gets a downshift on the highway, the transmission remains in overdrive. Also, the F-450 pickup went from a 4.88 axle to a 4.30 axle at launch for the 2011 model mated to the wide ratio span of the transmission. This and other optimizations mean the F-450 now has about a 30 percent improvement in fuel economy.
Optimized pumping pressure: A certain amount of pressure is required to hold the clutches together so they don't slip. The trick is to have the right amount of pressure to do the job. Too much pressure wastes fuel. The solution is to optimize the size of the pump and precisely control the pressure for all operating conditions.
– Customer fuel economy benefit: At highway speeds, for example, the line pressure is reduced, which helps save fuel. The system maintains the right amount of pressure for any given speed range. The less energy needed for internal pump pressure means less fuel used.
Optimized drainback to reduce spin losses: A main objective is to get the fluid through the main barrel to lubricate and cool components, and get it back to the sump as quickly as possible. This reduces windage and parasitic loss. The clutch friction plates were designed to allow fluid to flow through them efficiently for cooling and reduced drag. Clutch housings, connecting shells and the main case housing were optimized to quickly drain the fluid out of rotating components and back into the sump.
– Customer fuel economy benefit: Fewer parasitic losses due to reduced churning of fluid increases fuel economy.
Warmer operating temperature: Tied in with spin losses, the 6R140 cooling system has been optimized to allow for the proper amount of cooling when towing heavy loads in high ambient temperatures, while running at an overall higher stabilized temperature. This higher stabilized temperature lowers the viscosity and helps the fluid flow more easily, which reduces parasitic losses and saves fuel. The fluid also warms up faster because it does not flow to the cooling circuit until properly warmed up. Faster warm-up also reduces overall parasitic losses.
– Customer fuel economy benefit: Fewer parasitic losses due to reduced fluid viscosity translates to less internal drag on the system and increases fuel economy.
Quotes
"The 2011 Super Duty is not only the most powerful, most capable and fuel-efficient heavy-duty pickup truck on the road, it performs the tough jobs with even more efficiency than ever before. Customers can be confident that Super Duty's class-leading capability comes with Ford's 'and solution' of best-in-class fuel economy."
- Doug Scott, Truck Group Marketing Manager
"The new transmission is a 'clean-sheet' design, developed specifically to handle the significantly increased torque produced by the new diesel engine and the higher rotational speeds produced by the new gas engine, and to deliver the power to the wheels seamlessly and efficiently for heavy-duty truck customers. Each system and component was scrutinized to deliver optimum performance."
Azure Dynamics Corporation today announced AT&T has agreed to purchase two of the first Ford Transit Connect Electric vans, the latest addition to AT&T’s growing fleet of alternative-fuel vehicles.
The Ford Transit Connect Electric – the all-electric version of the 2010 Ford Transit Connect, the North American Truck of the Year – will be powered by Azure Dynamics’ patented Force DriveTM electric drivetrain with an advanced lithium-ion battery from Johnson Controls-Saft. The vehicle, which goes on sale later this year, has a range of up to 80 miles on a single charge and will be rechargeable using either 240-volt or standard 120-volt outlets. It has a top speed of 75 miles per hour.
AT&T currently operates more than 77,000 vehicles in its corporate fleet, including 15 gasoline-powered Ford Transit Connect vehicles AT&T began piloting in 2009.
Commercial vehicles are ideal candidates for electrification due to typical duty cycle characteristics like predictable drive routes and a return to a central location each night for recharging. The zero tailpipe emission Ford Transit Connect Electric also will help protect air quality in the urban environments where it operates.
By combining car-like driving dynamics with truck-like cargo capacity, Ford Transit Connect Electric is well-suited to the demands placed on urban delivery vehicles for small businesses and larger, corporate fleets.
The Transit Connect Electric is expected to offer lower cost of operation because recharging with electricity is generally less expensive than refueling with gasoline. Additionally, customers will benefit from lower maintenance costs as the electric drive train has far fewer moving parts to maintain.
AT&T plans to take delivery of the Transit Connect Electric in late 2010.
Quotes
“Cleaner, alternative-fuel vehicles are the future of our corporate fleet, and the Transit Connect Electric represents a real breakthrough and will be a strong addition to our range of alternative-fuel vehicles. It’s exactly the kind of vehicle we envisioned when we mapped our long-term vision to invest up to $565 million to deploy more than 15,000 alternative-fuel vehicles through 2018.”
– Jerome Webber, Vice President of Fleet Operations at AT&T
“Our business is built on great technology, committed partners and customers who want to improve efficiency while reducing their environmental footprint. The Transit Connect Electric brings all of those elements together in a single package and is exactly on target with our goal at Azure of ‘driving a world of difference.’”
– Scott T. Harrison, CEO of Azure Dynamics
“Ford Transit Connect was first introduced in the U.S. last year as a new fuel efficient alternative to larger commercial vehicles. Adding the electric option addresses a growing demand from our customers for sustainable vehicles for their fleets. This Transit Connect Electric represents the first in a family of electrified vehicles, including new hybrids, plug-in hybrids and all battery electric vehicles, which Ford will deliver over the next three years.”
Thousands of miles apart and struggling to survive in one of the world’s richest countries or one of the poorest, homeless people share a similar need for the basics in personal and medical care. The Ford Volunteer Corps is teaming up with World Medical Relief to provide assistance to people in both areas as part of a Ford Accelerated Action Day.
MODEL Teams of Ford employee and retiree volunteers are today assembling personal hygiene kits for homeless people in southeastern Michigan and packing medical supplies for earthquake victims in Haiti at World Medical Relief facilities in downtown Detroit.
The number of people who say they are homeless for the first time is increasing. In 2008, there were more than 86,000 homeless people in Michigan – up 10% from 2007.
Access to basic personal supplies give homeless people a greater sense of self and an improved outlook on life. The personal hygiene kits being prepared today include a bath towel, shampoo, toothpaste, a toothbrush, deodorant, soap and a comb. The kits will be distributed to more than 1,400 homeless children and families in the tri-county area. Most of the items were purchased with a grant from Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services.
Ford Model Teams volunteers also will be packing medical supplies destined for Haiti. These supplies will be part of the third shipment of a 40-foot container to Haitian earthquake victims organized by World Medical Relief. This shipment will include everything from blankets and clothes to basic patient care and medical supplies.
Ford Accelerated Action Days are concentrated one-day efforts to meet critical needs identified by our agency partners. This is the first of five Ford Accelerated Action Days in 2010. In May, we will focus on outdoor projects and the environment. Community Building is the theme in September during Ford Global Week of Caring. Ford MODEL Teams will help veterans and military families in November, and feeding the hungry will be our goal in December.
Quotes
"Creating a better world starts with our children and families. They are the foundation for building a brighter future for our local communities. A lot of people need our help, and Ford and its employees believe that giving back is the best way to show people we care."
– Jim Vella, President, Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services
“I commend Ford for its commitment to community service. The Ford volunteers have been a great help to World Medical Relief for many years, and we are looking forward to many more years of collaboration with Ford Motor Company Fund and the Ford Volunteer Corps serving the unfortunate around the globe.”
Soaring sales of the Ford Fusion have made 2009 already a record-breaking year for America’s most fuel-efficient midsize sedan.
Sales for 2009 already have reached 151,137 units, eclipsing the previous Fusion full-year sales high of 149,552 in 2007. Importantly, Fusion sales are skyrocketing at a time when industry sales are the lowest they have been since the early ’80s.
Welcome to the Top 10
In the first ten months of 2009, Fusion sales were 15 percent higher than a year ago. Also, Fusion has moved among America’s Top 10 selling vehicles and the No. 1 selling domestic car.
The 2010 Fusion and Fusion Hybrid are the most fuel-efficient sedans in America. The new models offer more power, class-exclusive technologies, such as Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) and Ford SYNC®, and more total passenger and luggage capacity than the Toyota Camry.
The diversity of the 2010 Fusion lineup is drawing a growing number of customers to the brand. Sales data show that consumers are taking notice. Fusion Hybrid, Sport and SEL models account for 50 percent of sales. Data also show that customers are embracing technology offerings such as voice-activated navigation, SYNC and Sony® Audio.”
The hybrid attraction
Sales of the new Fusion Hybrid account for almost 20 percent of total Fusion retail sales. Perhaps even more significant, more than 60 percent of Fusion Hybrid sales have been to customers coming from import brands – mostly Toyota and Honda.
The Fusion Hybrid delivers an EPA estimated 41 mpg rating in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, topping the Toyota Camry hybrid by 8 mpg in the city and 2 mpg on the highway. It also offers innovative new technology – SmartGauge™ with EcoGuide – that coaches hybrid drivers to maximize fuel efficiency.
According to early 2010 survey data obtained in the 2009 U.S. Global Quality Research System (GQRS), the 2010 Fusion Hybrid has the highest customer satisfaction ratings of any Ford vehicle ever. The survey was conducted for Ford Motor Company by RDA Group of Bloomfield Hills, Mich.
Quotes
“It’s extraordinary that a car could set a sales record in an environment where overall industry sales are down 26 percent from a year ago.”
– George Pipas, Ford Sales Analyst
“There is no reason for customers shopping for a midsize sedan to look beyond the Fusion, because the lineup offers something for everyone – a Hybrid model, a Sport version and a new selection of gas-powered engines paired with six-speed transmission.”
– Jonathan Richards, Ford Fusion Marketing Manager
Driving fast on the German Autobahn, where speed limits are often as optional as bathing suits in the South of France, can be a thrill. But the fantasy of putting the pedal to the metal on Europe’s fastest public roads has usually involved some exotic sports car or European luxury saloon – that is, until now.
The recently announced transformation of Ford’s engine range in Europe is led by the introduction of two state-of-the-art, 4-cylinder Ford EcoBoost petrol engines.
These highly efficient high-torque engines represent a completely new generation of downsized, high-efficiency, low-CO2 petrol engines from Ford. Developed by Ford engineers based in Europe, the 4-cylinder EcoBoost engines combine high-pressure direct injection, advanced turbocharging and twin variable valve timing to maximize combustion efficiency.
The primary benefits delivered by the Ford EcoBoost design approach include:
Optimized engine efficiency – fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are reduced by up to 20 per cent compared to conventional, larger displacement engines
Greater driving enjoyment – strong low-end torque and responsive performance is delivered across the full rev range
Opportunity to downsize – the best of both worlds – large engine performance but with the size, weight and fuel economy of a much smaller unit
The 4-cylinder Ford EcoBoost engines are available as either a 1.6-litre engine with outputs of 150 PS and 180 PS, or a 2.0-litre engine for applications of 200 PS and above.
The 1.6-litre Ford EcoBoost will be launched in the all-new C-MAX and Grand C-MAX models in late 2010, followed by the next-generation Focus in early 2011. The 2.0-litre engine with 203 PS is being launched in the latest 2010 S-MAX, Galaxy and Mondeo models, which are now in production at Ford's Genk plant in Belgium.
Ford EcoBoost engines are a central element in the company’s global powertrain strategy, with annual sales expected to exceed 1.3 million units by 2013. In addition to the two 4-cylinder engines, this total also includes the 3.5-litre V6 engine already available in larger vehicles in North America, and a future small displacement engine which will be produced in Europe.
Duratorq TDCi Diesels - Completely Updated
The acclaimed Ford Duratorq TDCi diesel engines have also been completely updated for 2010 to deliver even higher efficiency, with improved performance, fuel economy and refinement.
The latest 1.6- and 2.0-litre TDCi diesels benefit from a comprehensive range of engineering changes including:
Next-generation combustion system design with a lower compression ratio, increased combustion chamber diameter and reduced swirl
New higher-pressure common-rail fuel injection systems with advanced multi-hole injectors
The more efficient combustion system enables these engines to meet stringent new Stage V emissions standards, while at the same time delivering reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. In addition to greater peak power, the engines benefit from significantly improved driveability, with increased responsiveness and more pulling power at low engine speeds.
The new 1.6-litre TDCi engine will be fitted to the all-new C-MAX and Grand C-MAX, and the next-generation Focus, with 95 PS and 115 PS power ratings. It is also available in the 2010 Mondeo. Depending on application, CO2 emissions are reduced by up to 6 per cent compared to the previous 1.6-litre TDCi.
The new 2.0-litre TDCi engine is available in 115 PS, 140 PS and new 163 PS displacements, and will be featured in the all-new C-MAX and Grand C-MAX, and the next-generation Focus. The engine is also fitted to the 2010 Kuga, Mondeo, S-MAX and Galaxy models. Depending on application, CO2 emissions are reduced by up to 7 per cent compared to the previous 2.0-litre TDCi.
Ford ECOnetic - Ultra-frugal
Ford’s range of economical TDCi diesel models features dedicated, ultra-high-efficiency ECOnetic derivatives, which feature an optimised specification for the best fuel economy and lowest possible CO2 emissions.
The current Ford ECOnetic model line-up includes versions of the Fiesta, Focus, Mondeo and Transit, with CO2 emissions starting as low as 98g/km on the extremely frugal Fiesta ECOnetic.
For 2010, an updated Focus ECOnetic is launched, and can be specified with Ford's first Auto-Start-Stop System in Europe. This takes CO2 emissions down to a class-leading 99g/km with combined fuel economy of 3.8 l/100 km (74.3 mpg)*.
Ford Transmissions - Advanced and High-Efficiency
The latest high-efficiency, low-CO2 petrol and diesel engines have been matched with state-of-the-art transmissions, including a new 6-speed manual gearbox and the advanced Ford PowerShift 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
New C-MAX, Grand C-MAX and next-generation Focus vehicles fitted with the 1.6-litre Ford EcoBoost petrol and 1.6-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engines are the first models to be fitted with a completely new 6-speed manual gearbox.
The new Ford Durashift 6-speed transmission is exceptionally light and compact for its torque capacity, and features an optimised design to minimise efficiency losses. Real-world fuel economy is typically reduced by 3 to 5 per cent compared to a prior-generation 5-speed manual gearbox.
An increasing number of models in Europe can now be specified with the advanced, high-efficiency Ford PowerShift automatic transmission. This transmission is a state-of-the-art dual-clutch design, which combines the efficiency, optimised gear ratios and driving enjoyment of a manual gearbox with the smoothness and ease-of-use of a conventional automatic.
Ford PowerShift is significantly more efficient than traditional torque-converter automatics, resulting in fuel economy and CO2 emissions which are typically reduced by 8 to 10 per cent, and which are very close to those achieved with a manual gearbox.
This transmission is standard equipment on the 2010 Mondeo, S-MAX and Galaxy models with the 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost petrol engine, and is also available as an option for the latest 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel in the all-new C-MAX and Grand C-MAX, next-generation Focus, 2010 Kuga, Mondeo, S-MAX and Galaxy.
Quotes
“Following the tremendous reception given to the first of our new EcoBoost direct-injection turbo petrol engines in North America, we are now extending the family to Europe with the launch of our all-new 4-cylinder engines. Combined with the comprehensive updates we have made to our TDCi diesel engine line-up, this provides our customers with a choice of world-class engines, all of which deliver more power and torque, but with significantly lower fuel consumption and CO2.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s Group Vice President of Global Product Development
“We know car buyers around the world are focused on cost of ownership, and the introduction of Ford’s latest petrol and diesel powertrains is another significant step towards our goal of being a global leader for fuel economy. Both our new Ford EcoBoost petrol engines and latest Duratorq TDCi diesels have been developed specifically to prove our commitment to delivering class-leading economy and low CO2 emissions in the models they power."
– Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s Group Vice President of Global Product Development
Yin and Yang have converged in a perfect union today. The 2011 Ford Mustang has become not only the most fuel-efficient Mustang ever, but also the first production car in history to produce more than 300 horsepower and more than 30 mpg highway.
The Mustang’s official EPA ratings – completed this week – certify that models equipped with the 305-hp 3.7-liter V-6 and available six-speed automatic transmission achieve 31 mpg on the highway and 19 mpg in the city. The standard six-speed manual transmission is rated at 29 mpg on the highway and 19 mpg in the city.
Mustang is powered by a lightweight, all-aluminum 3.7-liter dual-overhead-cam (DOHC) V-6 engine that uses advanced engineering to deliver its combination of power and economy. Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) adjusts the valvetrain in microseconds depending on driver inputs, further contributing to the engine’s overall efficiency.
The fact that Mustang achieves its top fuel economy rating with the convenience of an automatic transmission also marks a shift in conventional wisdom. Ford engineered a modern six-speed automatic transmission with carefully calibrated gear ratios and shift programs to maximize economy, while still delivering high-horsepower driving fun.
In addition to engine improvements, upgrades to Mustang’s body, powertrain and chassis design contribute to the higher fuel economy numbers for 2011. Examples include:
New Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) system eliminates the drag of an engine-operated hydraulic power steering pump
Six-speed manual and automatic transmissions allow lower cruising revs without sacrificing off-the-line performance
Aerodynamic changes include improvements like a new front fascia, tire spats on the rear wheels, modified underbody shields, a taller air dam and an added rear decklid seal
The new 2011 Mustang already has more than 11,000 orders. Half of all the nationwide orders are for the car’s fuel-efficient 3.7-liter V-6 engine. The 2011 Mustangs are also being equipped with record levels of technology, giving customers the option of choosing navigation, high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps and rearview cameras.
The new 2011 Mustang goes on sale this spring and will be built at the AutoAlliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Mich.
Quotes
“The Mustang engineering team aimed high and, through hard work, achieved fuel economy numbers that elevate Mustang into a class by itself.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Ford Group Vice President, Global Product Development
“At no other time in Mustang’s history – for that matter, in automotive history – have we been able to talk about 305 horsepower and 31 miles per gallon. The Mustang truly is a no-compromises sports car.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Ford Group Vice President, Global Product Development
“Advanced powertrains like our Ti-VCT V-6 and six-speed automatic really speak to the future of Mustang. We’ve proven that, using technology, Ford can deliver both power and fuel economy.”
– Barb Samardzich, Ford Vice President of Global Powertrain Engineering
You guessed it.Ford Motor Company has confirmed that its global electric vehicles plan is extending to Europe with five full electric or hybrid vehicles across its C, CD and light commercial vehicle ranges coming for European customers by 2013.
Specifically, Ford will launch two zero-emission full battery-electric vehicles including the Transit Connect Electric light commercial vehicle in 2011 followed by the Ford Focus Electric in 2012. Three other vehicles – two next-generation petrol hybrid-electric vehicles and a plug-in hybrid – will be introduced in 2013.
Ford’s global electrification strategy will deliver a suite of electrified vehicles to a variety of markets and build on the company's overall vision of offering the widest possible range of technology solutions – instead of a single vehicle or technology – to improve fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions for customers around the world.
As Ford's global product vision accelerates to ensure that all the company's vehicles competing in global segments become common in Europe, North America and Asia, the resulting efficiencies will allow a global portfolio of environmentally friendly transportation solutions to be developed based around hybrid electric, plug-in hybrid electric and all-electric vehicles.
Zero-Emission
The first models to be launched in Europe will be zero-emission, full-electric versions of two significant models in Ford's global product portfolio.
The Focus Electric will be based on Ford's next-generation Focus model and is one of at least ten vehicles that will be developed from the company's new global C-car platform. Focus Electric will be introduced in the US and Canada in 2011, followed by Europe in 2012.
The Ford Transit Connect Electric is a zero-emission, pure electric-powered version of the award-winning Transit Connect light commercial vehicle and goes on sale in North America later this year. Ford is aiming to make the Transit Connect Electric available for European customers from 2011.
Future Hybrids
While Ford has considerable experience in the North American market with full petrol-hybrid vehicles the company also is planning to expand its presence in Europe with two all-new, next-generation hybrid passenger cars based on global platforms following in 2013.
In addition, European customers will be able to opt for a plug-in hybrid model, also coming in 2013.
Prototype Trials in Europe
Ford's Product Development team is participating in two specific European trial initiatives to demonstrate the technology in real world driving conditions, and generate feedback to help develop further the Focus Electric and the Transit Connect Electric for market acceptance in Europe.
In the UK, a consortium of Ford, Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE) and Strathclyde University is preparing later this year to run a fleet of zero emissions prototype Ford Focus Battery Electric Vehicle prototypes, based around the current Focus model sold in Europe and using elements of the technology under development for the new Focus Electric.
In Germany, Ford has recently announced its participation in the colognE-mobilproject. This initiative will research the impact of electric vehicles on urban air quality, traffic safety and the electricity supply infrastructure. Scientists will then scale up the results to examine the true benefits an electric future could deliver for German cities.
Quotes
“We recognize that one technology does not work for all our customers. Our electrification strategy and plans include hybrids, plug-in hybrids and battery electric vehicles to best meet our global customers' needs. Leveraging our global platforms is also central to this strategy and allows us to build on our strong product line-up in the most customer-driven, affordable way.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s Group Vice President of Global Product Development
“Our goal is to provide consumers with access to significant fuel economy improvements and reduced CO2 emissions to meet their functional needs and without compromising their driving experience.”
– John Fleming, Chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe
“There is increasing interest among a number of customers in Europe for electrified vehicles and we are responding by stepping up our efforts to bring these models to the marketplace alongside our latest-generation, fuel-efficient petrol and diesel powered models. This is further evidence of how the ONE Ford global product vision is transforming our business. European consumers will not have to wait too long before they can choose from a range of electrified alternatives from Ford.”
– John Fleming, Chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe
“Ford is focused on solutions that reach not just hundreds or thousands of cars, but millions of vehicles – because that is how Ford can truly make a difference.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s Group Vice President of Global Product Development
“Electrification is a key element in the effective use of Ford’s global resources and talents to provide a portfolio of affordable and fuel-efficient technologies for customers. In particular our fleet trials in the UK and Germany will give us vital experience and insight into how fleet and private customers for these niche models will use them on a daily basis. This will ensure that the five models we bring to market are fully developed to meet their expectations."
We could tell you how great we’re doing, but we’ll let the numbers tell the story.
Higher sales for every brand and in every product category propelled Ford Motor Company to a 43 percent sales increase in February versus a year ago. Compared with January, Ford’s February sales are up 22 percent.
February sales were higher throughout Ford’s line-up. Cars were up 54 percent versus a year ago, utilities were up 39 percent, and trucks were up 36 percent. Among brands, Ford sales were up 46 percent, Lincoln sales were up 19 percent, and Mercury sales were up 24 percent.
Year to date through February, Ford, Lincoln and Mercury sales totaled 250,050, up 34 percent versus a year ago.
Ford said it remains committed to delivering the freshest line-up of new products in the U.S. industry. New or significantly upgraded vehicles this year include the Ford Fiesta, Focus, Edge and Edge Sport, Explorer, F-Series Super Duty, Transit Connect Electric, Lincoln MKX and an all-new small car for Mercury.
In addition, the company is introducing nine new or upgraded fuel-efficient engines and six new transmissions this year. They include the new 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, new Mustang V-6 and V-8, new Super Duty 6.7-liter diesel and 6.2-liter gasoline engines.
Ford estimates its February U.S. total market share was approximately 17 percent – up 3 percentage points versus a year ago.
In February, Ford sales to retail customers were 28 percent higher versus a year ago, and sales to fleet customers were up 74 percent.
North American Production
In the second quarter of 2010, Ford plans to produce 595,000 vehicles, up 144,000 vehicles (32 percent) versus the same period a year ago. Ford’s first quarter production plan is 570,000 vehicles, unchanged from the prior forecast.
Additional Sales Highlights
February sales of the Ford Fusion, Motor Trend’s Car of the Year, were more than double year-ago levels (up 116 percent). Fusion set a new February sales record – its 10th monthly sales record in 11 months. The Fusion Hybrid recently was named North American Car of the Year.
Mercury Milan sales were higher than a year ago for the fourth month in a row.
February sales of Ford Mustang and Focus and Lincoln MKZ also were higher.
Ford Taurus sales totaled 6,359, up 93 percent versus a year ago. Since the introduction of the all-new model in August, Taurus sales are nearly double year-ago levels. The average conquest rate for Taurus is 46 percent nationwide and 76 percent on the West Coast.
Ford’s F-Series – America’s best-selling truck for 33 years in a row and best-selling vehicle (car or truck) for 28 years in row – posted a 39 percent increase in February. In 2009, F-Series increased its leadership position among full-size pickups with a 4 percentage-point gain in segment share, and the F-Series continues to gain share in 2010 with a 6-point gain in January.
Production of the all-new F-Series Super Duty has begun at Ford’s Kentucky Truck Plant.
Utility vehicles also posted strong sales increases. In February, Escape sales were up 50 percent versus a year ago, Edge sales were up 67 percent, Flex sales were up 19 percent, and Mercury Mariner sales were up 39 percent. Sales for traditional SUVs (Explorer, Expedition and Navigator) also were higher than a year ago.
Sales for Ford’s E-Series van (Econoline/Club Wagon) were up 26 percent versus a year ago. E-Series has been America’s best-selling full-size van for 31 years.
Sales of the new Transit Connect – a small commercial van introduced in mid-2009 – totaled 1,338 in February. Ford’s share of the commercial van segment is more than 60 percent. Production of a battery-electric Transit Connect begins later this year.
Quotes
“The strength of our new products and Ford’s leadership in quality, fuel efficiency, safety, smart design and value are resonating with customers. The good news is we have even more new products and fuel-efficient powertrains coming this year, and we expect our progress to continue.”
– Ken Czubay, Ford Vice President, U.S. Marketing Sales and Service
“This is the most ambitious powertrain upgrade ever undertaken by Ford. Our goal is to provide our customers with industry-leading fuel economy and performance – and more reasons to shop Ford and buy Ford.”
– Ken Czubay, Ford Vice President, U.S. Marketing Sales and Service
Marketing campaigns are kind of like popcorn movies. Blockbusters get sequels.
Take Ford’s Fiesta Movement. The social media initiative was designed to create excitement about the new Fiesta and put the new small car on the minds of thousands of people nationwide. It is now moving to its second chapter, this time enlisting 40 people to tell the story of Ford’s newest car in 16 cities across the country.
Culled form more than 1,000 applications, Fiesta Movement Chapter 2 consists of 20 teams comprised of two agents each. Their mission will be to redefine the way Fiesta is brought to market by interacting with consumers online and offline, while bringing Fiesta to their communities.
The first Fiesta Movement generated more than 6.2 million YouTube views, more than 750,000 Flickr views and nearly 4 million Twitter impressions. The Fiesta Movement also set a Guinness World Record for the most attendees at a tweetup during the Fiesta Movement Awards Celebration in West Hollywood in December. This unprecedented event brought together 1,149 Fiesta Movement agents and Twitter friends.
Telling the story, locally
Agents will complete a series of missions, where they will compete in challenges locally that leverage the best of their communities, allowing them to open the discussion about Fiesta through social media and beyond.
After completing a challenge, agents will produce and place the creative content online at www.fiestamovement.com, where followers also can keep up with their favorite agents. The best content will be recognized based on online consumer interaction and consumers’ opinions about the agents’ work, and will be amplified in local media and events as well as through a variety of national mediums.
One of the missions is called “Show the World UR Personality,” where agents will design their Fiesta wrap and work with designers to create a wrap that fits their team’s personality. Their personalized Fiesta will be delivered to the agent team, and the best wrap, as voted by the fans on www.fiestamovement.com, will later be available to consumers. Additionally, the winning wrap will be integrated into a future national Fiesta display.
Followers of Fiesta Movement Chapter 2 will play a pivotal role in this adventure, by checking in with their favorite agent team, snapping a picture of the content they saw on the streets or commenting on what the agents post to social media sites.
Agents were selected based on entrepreneurial spirit, strong, continued local connections, social vibrancy and creative vision. The agent teams are located in major markets, including Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Detroit, Philadelphia, Boston, Denver, San Diego, Dallas, Houston, Seattle, Orlando, Phoenix, Atlanta and Miami.
Fiesta has it all – and more
Going on sale this summer, the all-new Ford Fiesta features an expressive, vibrant design, sharp reflexes, and a global track record that will redefine U.S. small car customers’ expectations. With 15 class-exclusive technologies and a projected best-in-class highway fuel economy of 40 mpg, Fiesta brings efficiency and convenience together in one package.
Fiesta is designed to be versatile, personal and adaptable. In fact, Fiesta is expected to deliver best-in-class convenience and connectivity with Ford’s segment-exclusive SYNC® voice-activated communications system, as well as an expressive color palette and available graphics.
Already more than 6,000 consumers have made reservations for the Ford Fiesta – half of them from non-Ford customers – and more than 100,000 handraisers are showing an interest in the new fuel-efficient car. Customers can place their order for the new Fiesta today through their local Ford dealer.
Quotes
“This was a natural progression from the first phase of the Fiesta Movement. Chapter 2 will still be rooted in social media, but this time the content will also live offline and find its way into new mediums. Fiesta needs to clearly be the star now as the agents share their work within their communities and beyond.”
– Connie Fontaine, Ford Brand Content and Alliances Manager
“Essentially, the agents will be introducing Fiesta to their communities, with local culture driving the content they create. There will be unique opportunities for consumers to actively engage and follow along with the agent teams in their area.”
- Connie Fontaine, Ford Brand Content and Alliances Manager
Ever feel like the Energizer Bunny®… you just keep going and going. We know what you mean.
Ford Motor Company’s actions to reduce the amount of energy used to manufacture vehicles and support its U.S. operations have earned it the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s coveted 2010 ENERGY STAR Award for the fifth consecutive year.
The 2010 ENERGY STAR Award for Sustained Excellence recognizes Ford’s continued leadership and commitment to protecting the environment through energy efficiency.
In 2009, Ford improved energy efficiency in the U.S. by 4.6 percent resulting in savings of approximately $15 million. Actual savings due to plant shutdowns were higher, but Ford measures energy efficiency as energy consumed per vehicle. Since 2000, Ford’s U.S. facilities have improved energy efficiency by more than 30 percent. That’s equivalent to the annual energy consumed by more than 110,000 homes.
Contributing Factors
Energy efficiency enablers include innovative technology solutions, replication of best practices and nonproduction shutdowns. A number of actions taken by Ford since 2000 have contributed to its overall energy efficiency improvement, including:
Using flexible tooling to assemble multiple vehicles on the same production line, which requires less manufacturing floor space and optimizes plant utilization
Updated facility lighting systems by replacing inefficient high-intensity discharge fixtures with up-to-date fluorescent lights and control systems
Upgraded paint process systems including booth air handling and improved emission controls
Continued development of Ford’s “Paint Shop of the Future” processes, including Fumes-to-Fuel that turns paint fumes into electricity, the 3-Wet painting process that significantly reduces the footprint and energy use of paint booths, and zirconium oxide pretreatment that uses less energy to inhibit surface corrosion
Installed advanced computer controls on all North American plant air compressors for paint shop applications and pneumatic tools
Initiated a PC Power Management program to improve global energy efficiency with an estimated reduction in the company’s carbon footprint of between 16,000 and 25,000 metric tons annually
Initiated the plan for the recently announced “Go Green” Dealership Sustainability Program to improve the energy efficiency of Ford and Lincoln Mercury dealerships
Aggressively curtailing energy use during extended production shutdown periods
Leveraging the ENERGY STAR program through employee energy awareness communications and events, development of energy modeling and analysis tools, and replication of industry best practices
Updated heating systems at many manufacturing facilities by replacing outmoded steam powerhouses with digitally controlled direct-fired natural gas air handler
Ford has shared these and other energy efficiency practices with its global industrial partners and coached its regional operations to use ENERGY STAR guidelines as a foundation for sustainable energy management processes.
Quote
“More than ever, we at Ford Motor Company are committed to the responsible use of resources. Partnering with ENERGY STAR is an essential component of Ford’s plan to become economically, environmentally and socially sustainable.”
– George Andraos, Director, Energy and Manufacturing Site Management
Think this nation needs a new engine of growth? Done and done.
Ford Motor Company is investing $155 million and adding 60 jobs at its Cleveland operations to build a new fuel-efficient V-6 engine for the 2011 Mustang, which has expected class-leading highway fuel efficiency of 30 miles per gallon on the highway and 305 horsepower.
The investment and jobs at Ford’s Cleveland Engine Plant No. 1 brings the company’s investment in powertrain engineering and facility upgrades in North America to $1.8 billion to support its 2011 vehicle launches – with more to come. The total number of jobs being added as part of these investments is 1,260. The new Mustang engine is one of nine new or upgraded engines or transmissions for 2011 model Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles.
On sale this spring, the 2011 Ford Mustang delivers 305 high-performance horses for V-6 coupe buyers. The all-aluminum dual-overhead cam (DOHC), 3.7-liter Duratec 24-valve V-6 engine delivers a projected 30 mpg on the highway with a six-speed automatic transmission and fun for drivers on nearly every road.
Also available for the 2011-model year are the Mustang GT – with an all-new 5.0-liter V-8 delivering 412 horsepower and projected unsurpassed highway mileage of 25 mpg – and a no-compromises Shelby GT500 powered by a 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 and 550 horsepower.
The new 3.7-liter V-6 is built at Ford’s Cleveland Engine Plant 1. The 5.0-liter V-8 engine is built at Ford’s Essex Engine Plant in Windsor, Ontario. The 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 is built at Ford’s Romeo, Mich., Engine Plant.
Cleveland Engine Plant 1 Retooled
Cleveland Engine Plant No. 1’s V-6 engine is expected to represent two-thirds of Mustang’s volume this calendar year.
Ford’s $155 million investment there includes $121 million in manufacturing investment at the plant and $34 million for launch and engineering. Sixty new jobs have been added to the plant to support the new engine.
Specifically, the $121 million for the manufacturing facility supports continued investment in developing and re-tooling the plant’s flexible manufacturing systems in the assembly and component (cylinder block, head and crankshaft) areas.
Ford’s investment at Cleveland Engine Plant is supported by Ford’s green partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy. This Ohio plant is one of 11 Ford facilities in the U.S. participating in the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Incentives Program initiated by Congress and implemented by the Obama administration. The program is helping to develop advanced technology vehicles and strengthen American manufacturing across the country. This project is also supported by Ford’s state and local government partners primarily through training funds.
The investment represents the latest in Ford’s ongoing commitment to the Cleveland Engine Plant No. 1. Opened in 1951 as Ford’s first engine plant in Ohio, the facility has produced more than 35 million engines.
In 2004, Ford invested $350 million into the plant for redesign and installation of an all-new assembly line as well as block, crankshaft and cylinder head machining lines. The plant also led the way in 2009 with the introduction of Ford’s first EcoBoost engines, which use gasoline turbocharged direct-injection technology for up to 20 percent better fuel economy, 15 percent fewer CO2 emissions and superior driving performance versus larger displacement engines.
Nine New or Upgraded Powertrains This Year
Ford is introducing nine new or upgraded powertrains in North America for its 2011 model vehicles, representing $1.8 billion worth of investment in engineering and facilities. Among the nine powertrains are:
6.2-liter V-8 gasoline engine for the F-Series Super Duty
6.7-liter Power Stroke Diesel for the F-Series Super Duty
6R140 heavy-duty TorqShift® automatic transmission for the F-Series Super Duty
3.7-liter Ti-VCT V-6 engine for the Mustang
5.0-liter Ti-VCT V-8 engine for the Mustang
Six-speed automatic transmission for the Mustang
The 2011 Mustang is the most technically advanced model yet of America's favorite sports car. Both V-6 and V-8 models feature Twin Independent Variable Valve Timing (Ti-VCT), double overhead cams, four-valves per-cylinder and free-flowing exhaust systems. Both models are available with six-speed manual or an upgraded 6-speed automatic transmission.
The 2011 Mustang is a strong example of Ford’s industry leading fuel economy gains. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, Ford’s combined car and truck fuel economy has improved nearly 20 percent since 2004 – almost double the next closest competitor.
Additionally, Ford has lowered its tailpipe CO2 emissions more than any other automaker. Ford’s fleet-wide average of 434 grams per mile is 37 grams lower than the 2007 total and 25 grams lower than 2008.
Quotes
“Ford is absolutely committed to delivering class-leading fuel efficiency with every new vehicle we introduce, and this investment in Cleveland provides further proof.”
– Bill Russo, Director of Manufacturing for Ford’s Powertrain Operations
“Mustang is completely transformed with this new engine. Everything people love about the car is still there and now under the hood is a V-6 engine that uses premium technology to deliver the power, the feel, the fuel efficiency, even the sound of the best sports coupes in the world.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Group Vice President, Global Product Development
“The Cleveland Engine Plant is not only building fuel-efficient engines for some of our most popular Ford products, it’s becoming a hub for the future of Ford powertrains. This facility has the flexibility and the expertise to help us meet customer demands for fun, fuel-efficient vehicles, and it represents the future of advanced manufacturing in North America.”
– Bill Russo, Director of Manufacturing for Ford’s Powertrain Operations
“We’re focusing on every single detail of our engine and transmission lineup to speed class-leading fuel efficiency to our customers as quickly as possible, affordably and in high volumes.”
Wait a second… Run that past me again… It does what? No wonder everybody wants one.
The new 2011 Ford Mustang with all-new powertrains has three times more orders than the 2010 model in its first month, and half of all nationwide orders are for the car’s class-leading 30 mpg 3.7-liter V-6 engine.
Nearly 11,000 Mustangs have been ordered since order banks opened in late January.
Fifty percent of the 2011 Mustang orders are for V-6 models, which feature a new, high-performance, all-aluminum Duratec 3.7-liter dual overhead-cam (DOHC) Twin Independent Variable Cam Timing (Ti-VCT) engine. This new engine delivers 305 horsepower and an expected best-in-class EPA fuel efficiency of 30 mpg on the highway – a 25 percent improvement versus the 2010 model.
2011 Mustang V-6 order levels are up 19 percent versus the new 2010 model orders.
A first-ever Mustang Club of America (MCA) Special Edition package available on V-6 models generated three times more orders than expected. Plus, “take rates” on the California Special series – which is available on the Mustang GT and harkens back to the original 1968 feature vehicle – are triple the expected rates.
2011 Mustangs also are being equipped with record levels of technology. Navigation is specified on 18 percent of orders. High-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps are on 26 percent of vehicles. Rear-view cameras are on 10 percent – all up from 2010.
For the 2011 model, 41 percent of orders are for Mustang GTs.
The Mustang GT’s modern 5.0-liter four-valve, Ti-VCT V-8 engine delivers 412 horsepower and 390 ft.-lb. of torque. At the same time, fuel economy of 25 mpg highway is projected to be better than the previous model and unsurpassed in the segment.
Approximately 9 percent of the 2011 Mustang orders are for Shelby GT500 models, which are powered by an all-new aluminum-block 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 engine. This produces 550 horsepower and 510 ft.-lb. of torque, a 10 horsepower increase versus the 2010 model. The engine also is 102 pounds lighter than its predecessor, delivering a better power-to-weight ratio, improved fuel economy, acceleration, handling and steering precision.
Quotes
“Fuel economy ranks among the top two reasons people choose vehicles. With the 2011 Mustang lineup, we’ve found a way to offer even better fuel efficiency for V-6, GT and even Shelby GT500 performance drivers – while improving performance. And consumers are responding.”
– Steve Ling, Ford North America Car Marketing Manager
“The new engine transforms Mustang. Everything people love about the car lives on, and now under the hood is a V-6 engine that uses premium technology to deliver the power, the feel, the fuel efficiency, even the sound of the best sports cars in the world.”
– Steve Ling, Ford North America Car Marketing Manager
“Mustang is ready for a new generation of buyers. With new high-tech and fuel-efficient engines, class-leading connectivity and infotainment options as well as signature style and performance, Mustang is poised to continue its legacy as America’s favorite sports car.”
– Steve Ling, Ford North America Car Marketing Manager
Getting a nation back on the road to prosperity is hard work. Rebuilding and repairing a battered infrastructure takes the right tools. As much as we like small cars, there are some jobs they just can’t do. Sometimes, you need a super capable, super tough truck to ‘getter done.” Sometimes you need a Super Duty.
Ford Super Duty customers expect and demand capability from the best-selling heavy-duty truck in America. For most Super Duty owners, it’s the core asset of their business. Day after day, year after year, it’s expected to deliver results in the most demanding situations. No nonsense. And never any excuses.
Ford’s F-Series has been the best-selling line of trucks in the U.S. for 33 straight years. With class-leading torque, horsepower, fuel economy and towing and payload capability, the new Super Duty further underscores Ford’s Built Ford Tough legacy.
New diesel and gasoline engines deliver improved torque, horsepower, fuel economy
For 2011, Super Duty features both all-new diesel and gasoline engines that are mated to a new transmission. The new 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 turbocharged diesel was designed, engineered and built by a Ford team dedicated solely to delivering this class-leading diesel to the next-generation Super Duty to enable continued best-in-class towing and payload.
The result: The new Power Stroke pumps out a best-in-class 735 ft.-lb. of torque at 1,600 rpm and 390 horsepower at 2,800 rpm, enabling the 2011 Super Duty’s class-leading towing capability of 24,400 pounds. The 2011 Super Duty also has class-leading payload capability at 6,520 pounds.
Benefits of the new 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel engine:
First use of a compacted graphite iron (CGI) engine block in a Super Duty-class vehicle in North America; CGI is stronger than cast iron, and Ford successfully has used the material in engine blocks in products around the world. The block structure was optimized for reduced weight and maximum strength to meet the demands of higher torque and more horsepower, and enable class-leading fuel economy.
Unique inboard exhaust and outboard intake architecture, an automotive-industry first for a modern production diesel, reduces overall exhaust system volume, which leads to better throttle response; a reduced exhaust system surface area minimizes heat transfer to the engine compartment and improves NVH (noise, vibration and harshness).
The turbocharger features an industry-first dual-sided compressor wheel that works in a single housing. The unit is uniquely center-mounted on a pedestal low in the back of the valley for improved NVH. The design allows the single unit to deliver the advantages of a twin-turbocharger system in a smaller, more efficient package, combining the benefits of a small turbocharger (faster response) and a large turbocharger (ability to compress and force more air into the engine for more power) in one unit.
The high-pressure fuel system injects fuel at more than 29,000 psi. The system delivers up to five injection events per cylinder per cycle using eight-hole piezo injectors to spray fuel into the piston bowl. The direct-injection system is calibrated and phased for optimum power, fuel efficiency and NVH.
Aluminum cylinder heads for reduced weight; the mid-deck construction with dual water jackets provides increased strength and optimal cooling; six-head bolts, instead of four as found on other engines, help improve sealing and maintain cylinder integrity even with the higher firing pressures.
Compatible up to B20 fuel, allowing greener fueling options of up to 20 percent biodiesel and 80 percent petroleum diesel.
The engine and aftertreatment system for the 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 turbocharged diesel powertrain ably meets the new, more stringent 2010 federal emissions requirements for nitrogen oxides (NOx), which have to be lowered by approximately 80 percent, making this the cleanest Super Duty diesel ever.
New gasoline engine delivers class-leading power and fuel economy as well
Ford tapped into a bit of its proud racing heritage to create the new 6.2-liter V-8 gasoline engine, which uses big-bore architecture to produce best-in-class torque, horsepower and fuel economy. The new gasoline engine delivers 405 ft.-lb. of torque (at 4,500 rpm) and 385 horsepower (at 5,500 rpm) on regular gasoline. The new V-8 also is E85 compatible.
These numbers represent an increase of 40 ft.-lb. of torque and 85 horsepower over the outgoing 5.4-liter V-8. The V-8’s large bore (102 millimeters) allows for larger intake and exhaust valves for improved engine breathing, and the short stroke (95 millimeters) allows higher engine speed for increased horsepower.
Benefits of the new 6.2-liter V-8 gasoline engine include:
SOHC valvetrain with roller-rocker shafts: The single overhead camshaft (SOHC) per cylinder head design results in a stiff valvetrain that allows optimized camshaft lift profiles and results in great low-speed torque. The roller-rocker shafts allow valve angles to be splayed, resulting in optimized intake and exhaust port layout for better breathing.
Dual-equal variable cam timing: Intake and exhaust valve opening and closing events are phased at the same time to optimize fuel economy and performance throughout the engine speed range and throttle positions.
Two spark plugs per cylinder: Due to the large bore size, two spark plugs per cylinder are used to more efficiently burn the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber, enabling better fuel economy and increased engine torque. The twin plugs also help the engine maintain a smooth, stable idle.
Dual knock sensors: A knock sensor on each bank of cylinders of the V-8 engine allows the spark timing of each cylinder to be individually optimized real-time, throughout the engine speed range. The engine learns the optimum timing via an adaptive algorithm.
Better engine crankcase “breathing” and efficiency: Significant development work and computer-aided engineering optimized the cylinder block for more efficient airflow in the crankcase as the pistons move up and down in the bores, resulting in improved torque at higher engine speeds. Piston-cooling jets squirt oil on the underside of the pistons to keep the piston crowns cool under extreme operating conditions. The cooling jets also allow for a higher compression ratio for better engine efficiency and faster engine oil warm-up on cold starts, also improving fuel economy.
New TorqShift transmission harnesses and manages the power; Live Drive PTO available
The all-new 6R140 heavy-duty TorqShift six-speed automatic transmission was designed to manage the high low-end torque produced by the new diesel engine. The same basic transmission also is mated to the new gasoline engine, giving customers of either engine the ability to efficiently get the increased torque and horsepower to the ground. Engineered for greater efficiency and fuel economy, improvements include refined architecture to provide relatively low clutch speeds, which results in lower drag losses, and optimized fluid levels and drainback to reduce churning of fluid while also providing superior lubrication.
In addition to hardware-based improvements, the new transmission features enhanced Tow Haul mode with integrated engine exhaust braking and SelectShift Automatic capability, which includes Progressive Range Select and a manual mode, allowing customers to select the gear to suit their needs.
The new TorqShift transmission also enables the first application of Live Drive PTO (Power Take Off) in a Super Duty-class vehicle. On 2011 Super Duty diesels with the PTO prep option, the PTO output gear is linked through the torque converter to the engine crankshaft. This allows the transmission to power auxiliary equipment such as snowplows, aerial lifts, tow truck lifts, cement mixers or dump trucks. The power is available any time the engine is running.
Pioneered on agricultural applications, the Live Drive feature is particularly useful when mobile PTO function is required during start-stop operations, such as salt spreading or snow plowing.
“Our Super Duty customers do some of America’s toughest jobs. Every day they’re out there working with little fanfare and all they ask is the right tool for the job. The new 2011 Super Duty offers them a truck with best-in-class towing and payload, all-new powertrains and even more capability than ever to help them do their jobs.”
– Mark Fields, Ford President of The Americas
“The 2011 Super Duty offers the widest array of solutions for the widest array of heavy-duty work truck customers. The Super Duty lineup offers a variety of bodystyles and powertrains, from diesel and gasoline engines, each with a new six-speed transmission, to pickup trucks and chassis cabs, each with the towing and payload capabilities that define Super Duty.”
– Chris Brewer, Ford Super Duty Chief Engineer
“Developing the new 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 turbocharged diesel engine was an awesome endeavor. The extensive engineering and testing made us confident this engine ensures the new Super Duty’s leadership in capability, reliability and productivity.”
– Adam Gryglak, Ford Lead 6.7-liter Diesel Engineering Mana ger
Ever wonder how much of your time is wasted in traffic? Believe me, you don’t want know. But there are ways to minimize the hassle.
Drivers hitting the road in a new 2011 Ford, Lincoln or Mercury vehicles equipped with voice-activated navigation will be able to tap into nearly 2,500 miles of highway and interstate lanes designed to help get them where they need to go quicker and with less hassle.
For 2011 models, Ford will be adding a new high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane routing preference to the navigation menu. The HOV guidance option is one more tool in the award-winning Ford system’s traffic-fighting portfolio that already includes traffic reports, incident alerts and re-routing prompts to avoid congestion that are supported through SIRIUS Travel Link. These features helped the Ford system rank highest in the J.D. Power and Associates 2009 Navigation Usage and Satisfaction Study.
The fast way
HOV, or carpool lanes, are popular among commuters in highly-populated states such as California, New York, Texas and Virginia – along with cities such as Washington D.C., Seattle and Atlanta – because they allow vehicles with multiple passengers to use designated lanes for faster travel. In Northern Virginia, for example, a trip on a popular 27-mile stretch of I-95/I-395 where HOV designated lanes exist can cut travel time by half, with some 18,500 people traveling that specific route during peak commuter hours daily.
Drivers traveling with passengers will be able to set the HOV guidance option on the navigation preference menu. Once engaged, the system will map routes using HOV lanes where appropriate when a destination is entered. Users will know that routes contain HOV lanes when they see a white diamond icon illuminated on the map during route selection.
As a bonus, owners of Ford hybrid vehicles, including the Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner, could be eligible in certain states for special HOV lane passes that allow single-occupant travel in the carpool lanes, making the combination of hybrid and an HOV-enabled navigation system a highly fuel- and time-efficient form of travel.
More upgrades
In addition to the new HOV logic for 2011, the Ford voice-controlled navigation system will also receive:
Branded point-of-interest icons – for example, Starbucks, Mobile or Holiday Inn – will appear on mapping screens, and higher-density street labeling, showing more street names per zoom level on navigation maps
HD Radio™ technology, allowing users to receive free over-the-air digital FM broadcasts where available
Integration with SYNC Traffic, Directions, & Information app, enabling new features like the ability to download destinations sent from a home or work computer from Mapquest (late availability).
The updated voice-controlled navigation system will be offered on most 2011 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles, first launching on the new 2011 Ford Mustang.
Quotes
“We’ve worked hard to ensure our navigation system is not only extremely helpful, but exceptionally intuitive. We’ve added services and features such as HOV logic and others for 2011 that will help customers access exactly the information they need while they’re on the go.”
– Jim Buczkowski, Director, Global Electrical
and Electronics Systems Engineering
For the millions of people who suffer from airborne allergies, Ford is making a small change that could produce huge benefits. Beginning with the 2010 Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan and Lincoln MKZ, more efficient, upgraded allergen filters have been installed in the vehicles’ climate control systems. The particulate filters remove pollen, mold spores and road dust from outside air. The result is a cleaner, fresher cabin for occupants.
You’ll breathe easier knowing that Ford is planning to use the high-quality cabin filters in a host of new vehicles, including the Ford Fiesta, which goes on sale in North America this year.
According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, the costs of treating hay fever and similar nasal allergies have skyrocketed, reaching more than $11 billion annually – mostly for prescription medications.
For the 30 to 40 percent of people estimated to suffer from allergies, improvements in air quality can make a big difference in their symptoms, and consequently their health care expenses.
Ford’s new cabin air filter removes the most troublesome airborne allergens, such as pollen and mold spores.
The cabin filter used in North America is similar to the one that has helped certify Ford vehicles in Europe as being allergy-friendly by the independent testing organization TÜV Rhineland. Ford is the only automaker in Europe with the official TÜV allergy-friendly certification.
Quote
“Upgrading the cabin air filter to remove allergens and airborne pollutants will help our millions of allergy-suffering customers find relief while driving their Ford cars, trucks and SUVs. This is a great example of how Ford is examining every aspect of vehicle engineering to maximize consumer benefits.”
– Adam Barrow, Feature and Branding Manager, Ford Product Marketing
It’s commonly said that you should “protect your investment.” That’s all well and good, but an investment that is really working in your favor is one that protects you.
The 2010 Lincoln MKT recently earned top ratings for frontal and side-impact crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The three-row luxury crossover previously earned a 2009 "Top Safety Pick" award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Ford Motor Company has more Top Safety Pick ratings and more U.S. government five-star ratings than any other automaker.
A winning combination
The all-new MKT is attracting a balanced mix of Lincoln loyalists and new customers with its array of standard and optional crash-protection, crash-avoidance and driver-awareness features in addition to distinctive design, interior spaciousness, craftsmanship and fuel economy.
Since the MKT went on sale last fall, approximately 45 percent of MKT purchasers have traded in competitive models, most commonly the Acura MDX and Cadillac SRX. More than half of those buyers opted for the 3.5-liter EcoBoost™ engine.
Customer interest in MKT's driver-awareness features has been strong as well. Nearly one in three purchasers of the MKT opts for Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support and three of four opt for a package that includes Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross Traffic Alert.
Technology under the skin
The Lincoln MKT features Ford's Trinity Front Crash Body Architecture. The energy-absorbing body structure is optimized for strength and stiffness and features octagonal front frame rails, engine cradle/front subframe and "shotgun" front structural members designed to absorb and redirect crash forces away from the passenger compartment.
Lincoln MKT also includes Side Protection And Cabin Enhancement Architecture (SPACE®) to optimize side-impact occupant protection. The SPACE system integrates a hydroformed high-strength steel tube in the floor that runs the width of the vehicle from B-pillar to B-pillar and reinforcements along the rocker panels to help protect passengers in side-impact incidents.
Lincoln MKT also features Ford's Personal Safety System™, combining multiple technologies to tailor the air bag package and safety belt functions to the individual passenger and the accident circumstances. The system can identify variables, such as severity of the crash, weight of the individual passenger and safety belt usage, to adjust air bag deployment force.
“Leading the industry in both five-star crash test ratings and Top Safety Pick awards is very significant because customers increasingly rely on NHTSA and IIHS ratings when choosing a new vehicle.”
– Susan Cischke, Ford’s Group Vice President of Sustainability,
Environment and Safety Engineering
“Our research shows that MKT customers are tech-savvy, and luxury vehicle buyers tend to be early adopters of new safety, audio, infotainment and powertrain features. Not only is the MKT packed with standard luxury features and state-of-the-art technologies, it is unsurpassed in its segment for highway fuel economy.”
– Kate Pearce, Lincoln MKT Marketing Manager
“The MKT’s array of advanced safety te chnologies raises the bar for luxury vehicles and pushes the new frontier of ‘active’ crash-avoidance features that help drivers avoid or reduce the severity of accidents.”
– Steve Kozak, Chief Engineer, Ford Safety Systems
Customer demand for Ford’s new F-150 SVT Raptor is moving nearly as fast as the world’s only production high-speed off-road performance truck. Already, over 5,300 orders have been placed for the new performance pickup.
The F-150 Raptor is the first ever high-speed off-road performance truck offered by any manufacture and highlights Ford’s 33 years of truck leadership by emphasizing Built Ford Tough innovation and engineering. Developed with the DNA of an off-road pre-runner, the comprehensive modifications to the truck focused on chassis and suspension.
Built alongside the best-selling F-150 at Ford’s Dearborn Truck Plant, the 2010 F-150 SVT Raptor was designed for the off-road performance market which has steadily grown in popularity over the past decade.
Raptor is powered by F-150’s proven 5.4-liter Triton® V-8 three-valve engine, which delivers 320 horsepower and 390 ft.-lb. of torque. This spring, customers will have the added option of an all-new 6.2-liter V-8 engine, producing 411 horsepower and 434 ft.-lb. of torque – making Raptor the most powerful half-ton pickup on the market.
The appeal of the Ford’s F-150 SVT Raptor extends beyond just desert runners. While the biggest markets for order so far are in the Southwest and Texas, demand also is high in states like Tennessee, Michigan, Colorado, Ohio and Georgia
Customers are showing an appreciation for Raptor’s unparalleled off-road performance, as well as its many features. Options such as the luxury package, moonroof and reverse camera all have “take rates” of more than 79 percent. Popular F-150 utility options like touch-screen navigation with SIRIUS Travel Link™, trailer brake controller and Ford’s tailgate step have take-rates higher than 62 percent.
The overwhelming top color choice has been Tuxedo Black for more than 52 percent of all orders, followed by Molten Orange, Oxford White and Blue Flame.
Quotes
“We couldn’t be more pleased with the popularity of the F-150 SVT Raptor. Orders have exceeded our expectations. The truck is so popular that we actually wound up building more 5.4-liter V-8 models than we had originally anticipated. The order banks are now open for the all-new 6.2-liter V-8, and the orders keep rolling in.”
What does Ford Motor Company have in common with Google, Apple, and Amazon? Ford shares a spot with them on Fast Company’s Top 10 list of “Most Innovative” companies in Mobile technology, and becomes the first automaker to ever be recognized in the category.
Fast Company ranked Ford fifth in the mobile technology category for the introduction and evolution of SYNC, the industry-leading connectivity system co-developed with Microsoft, as well as the recent reveal of MyFord Touch, an innovative user interface that promises to redefine the in-car experience.
“The automaker has taken a great leap forward,” says Fast Company.
Ford developed SYNC in response to the explosive growth potential of the mobile device and embarked on a strategy to build a software-based connectivity platform that could leverage the increasing power of the phone and improving data networks. MyFord Touch expands on the system’s device connectivity features by delivering a graphical, touch, and voice-controlled user interface that maximizes SYNC’s capability and provides an intuitive and safer way for drivers to interact with the car.
In addition to introducing MyFord Touch at the recent 2010 International CES, Ford became the first automaker to announce hands-free command and control of smart phone apps. Pandora, Stitcher, and OpenBeak are the first to implement the SYNC Application Programming Interface (API), enabling drivers to voice control the apps through SYNC’s Bluetooth connection.
“This honor represents Ford’s commitment to innovation and development of technology that enhances the driving experience and adds real value to the consumer. We’re very proud of this recognition from Fast Company, and it is truly an accomplishment to be named amongst some of the leading technology innovators and mobile application developers.”
– Mark Fields, Ford President of The Americas
“Collaboration and strategic investment in open innovation have been keys to our success. Our relationship with Microsoft was just the beginning, as we’ve forged strong relationships throughout the mobile industry and look forward to even more.”
Ford Motor Company and Automotive Components Holdings LLC this week announced the donation of 242 acres of unique coastal wetlands in Monroe County, Mich., to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to be included in the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge.
This donation of the land follows nearly five years of joint management under a cooperative agreement between ACH, a Ford affiliate, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Ford Marsh is located adjacent to Lake Erie in Monroe County and bordered by Sterling State Park and the River Raisin.
An important flyway and waterway
It is an important flyway for thousands of migrating birds, a habitat for bald eagles and wide variety of mammals, and is home to significant beds of the American Lotus, the official symbol of Michigan’s clean waterways.
The habitat has been jointly managed since 2005 under a cooperative agreement between ACH and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as part of the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge. The refuge was established in 2001 under an Act of Congress authored by Congressman Dingell.
The Ford Marsh contains marshlands, forests, and transitional meadows, and is home to bald eagles that have returned to the coastal marshes to nest on the site. The marsh also is home to significant beds of the threatened American Lotus, a pale yellow flower that is the nation's largest aquatic wildflower.
An urban refuge for wildlife
The Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge incorporates more than 5,700 acres along a
48-mile stretch of shoreline on the lower Detroit River and western Lake Erie. It is the only international wildlife refuge in North America and one of the few urban refuges in the United States.
Under the earlier management agreement, biologists from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service banded and monitored bald eagles, and worked on plans to manage invasive species and enhance wildlife habitats.
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is, working with others, to conserve protect and enhance fish, wildlife, and plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. The Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge focuses its efforts on 30 species of waterfowl, 117 kinds of fish and 300 species of migratory birds.
Quotes
“This is a special piece of land and I’m pleased this donation will ensure that it will remain pristine for future generations to enjoy its natural beauty and rich wildlife. At Ford, protecting the environment is a core value and this project is an example of how we can partner with the government to ensure that vision is a reality.”
– Bill Ford, Ford’s Executive Chairman
“We are profoundly thankful to Congressman Dingell for his leadership that enabled us to work through the regulatory challenges and leave this lasting legacy in Monroe County.”
– Mark Blair, CEO of Automotive Components Holdings LLC
“There is an unfortunate myth that corporations and conservation cannot go well together. The donation of Ford Marsh by Ford and ACH should permanently debunk that falsehood. In fact, some of the greatest potential for preserving our fragile wetlands and wildlife habitats in this country lies within our nation’s businesses – a concept the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge continues to advance.”
– U.S. Rep. John Dingell
“I want to express my deep gratitude to both Ford and ACH for making this donation possible and for bravely creating an example that I hope will be increasingly followed by other corporations around the country.”
– U.S. Rep. John Dingell
“In acknowledgment of this significant donation by Ford and ACH, we are naming this area the Ford Marsh Unit. We have lost over 90 percent of the coastal wetlands in this western Lake Erie region to development. The permanent conservation of this unique marsh will make a major difference in restoring and maintaining the ecological integrity of Lake Erie and North America’s only International Wildlife Refuge.”
– John Hartig, Refuge Manager of the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge
Thinking about replacing that crusty old mini-van, and want a new ride that your spouse and kids won’t groan about getting into? According to Kelley Blue Book’s editors there are 10 family haulers that deserve your consideration, and here are three of their favorites: the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid, 2010 Ford Taurus and 2010 Ford Flex.
“While the product landscape in the new-car world seems ever-changing, the vehicle needs of the typical American family remain fairly constant; capable versatility, value, safety and economical factors usually remain top-of-mind,” said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com.
“Best hybrid experience on the road”
Nerad says the Ford Fusion Hybrid is a top pick for families because it saves money at the pump, keeps everyone entertained with the latest Ford SYNC® technology, and scores high in terms of ride and handling.
“The Ford Fusion Hybrid doesn’t scream its hybrid-ness to the multitudes,” he said. “Instead, it provides what many of us at Kelley Blue Book feel is the best hybrid experience on the road. We love the way the Fusion Hybrid rides and handles, and we applaud its innovative dash and environmental credentials.”
“A visually striking technological tour de force”
Nerad says customers in the market for a family car should also consider the Ford Taurus because it delivers features that American families will appreciate.
“What was once merely a competent full-size sedan has transformed into a visually striking technological tour de force,” he said. “With features uncommon in its segment, a roomy cabin, cavernous trunk, and nimbleness that belies its size, the redesigned Ford Taurus is a family car that pleases everyone, including the driver.”
“A great transcontinental family tourer”
Nerad says if the editors of Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com had to pick an overall winner from the “Top 10 Family Cars for 2010,” the Ford Flex might get the nod.
“The Ford Flex leaves plain-vanilla crossovers behind with its distinctive styling, and it has all the comfort and convenience features required to be a great transcontinental family tourer while performing equally well in getting the kids to softball practice,” he said. “It drives better than some midsize sedans, offers comfortable seating for seven, and boasts a long list of available interior amenities including an array of infotainment features and even a small refrigerator.”
For more information about the “Top 10 Family Cars for 2010” from Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com, visit www.kbb.com/Top10FamilyCars.
GQ magazine knows a thing or two about stylishness and it isn’t limited to bespoke suits and luxurious accoutrements. The magazine’s Web site recently listed its “most stylish cars of the past 50 years.”
Among the honored are a number of exotic sports cars and high-end European coupes, but you’ll also find the classic Ford Mustang GT (’66-’68) and the contemporary Ford Flex (’09-’present).
Here’s what GQ says about Ford’s distinctively designed full-size crossover: “Instead of the faux-sporty, swoopy lines that so many cars this size have adopted as if to say "I'm not a minivan!," the Flex is unabashedly boxy, its most outstanding feature being the four horizontal grooves on the doors. Like the Ford Woody that those lines evoke, the Flex is comfortable being what it is—the most stylishly square people-mover on the road today.”
GQ isn’t alone in thinking the Flex is “the best-looking car of its day… one whose beauty stands the test of time” (GQ’s criteria for stylishness). The Friends of the National Automotive History Collection (NAHC) singled out the Flex as its 2009 “Collectible Vehicle of the Future” award-winner last December.
As cars and trucks become increasingly fuel efficient so should the businesses that sell them. That’s at the heart of Ford Motor Company’s new ‘Go Green’ Dealership Sustainability Program for its U.S. Ford and Lincoln-Mercury dealers, which was announced at the 2010 National Automobile Dealers Association Convention this week.
The goal of the program is simple: Collaborate with dealers to implement cost-effective ways to improve the energy-efficiency of their facilities, resulting in a long-term reduction in individual dealership’s carbon footprint as well as overall operating costs. Participation in the ‘Go Green’ Dealership Sustainability Program is voluntary for dealers.
Ford has partnered with Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI), an organization recognized as a leader in providing energy-efficiency solutions to businesses, communities and organizations around the world.
Getting Started
Dealers interested in participating in the ‘Go Green’ Dealership Sustainability Program will first receive a comprehensive energy assessment from sustainability experts at Ford. After the thorough assessment is completed, Ford and the dealer will collaborate on energy-saving options available and will tailor a program to meet the needs of the dealer. Solutions are wide-ranging and can be implemented for dealers with existing facilities as well as dealers who are constructing new facilities.
Dealers who participate in the program will be able to take advantage of several benefits, including guidance on available State and Federal tax credits and incentives, as well as access to technical expertise and resources to assist with selection of energy-efficient products and equipment.
Ford is finalizing details to initiate a pilot program with three dealers located in Florida, New York and Nevada.
Quotes
“In keeping with Ford’s commitment to the environment, this program is a great fit for our dealers because it provides a variety of energy-efficient improvement options regardless of the current age and design of the facility. This allows all dealers the opportunity to participate in improving the energy efficiency of their facility and gives them flexibility in making choices that are right for them and their dealership.”
– Sue Cischke, Group Vice President, Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering
“We applaud Ford for their ongoing energy-efficiency efforts around the world. This initiative will have a positive impact participating dealers decrease their consumption of energy. Implementing these cost-effective solutions will also improve dealer’s bottom line over the long-term.”
– Amory B. Lovins, Co-Founder, Chairman and Chief Scientist, Rocky Mountain Institute
“Through this initiative we are making available to dealers the same techniques, principles and expertise we use to reduce our energy use and contribute to a better world.”
– Sue Cischke, Group Vice President, Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering
Tonight on Jimmy Kimmel, an exclusive behind-the-scenes Mardi Gras segment will air in support of FAT Tuesday.
With the help of the 2010 Ford F-150, Guillermo was able to achieve his life-long dream of appearing on a float during the Mardi Gras Tucks parade. His several thousand pound royal float was towed down St. Charles Avenue and filled to the brim with muffaletta sandwiches, a new love of his that he wished to share with all the people of New Orleans!
The episode will chronicle Guillermo's entire experience including a special meeting with Super Bowl Champion Saints players Darren Sharper and Roman Harper, as well as a recap of the building of the float and Guillermo's interaction with the people of New Orleans.
While you watch, don't fight the urge to shout out "who dat?"- the enthusiasm from Mardi Gras and a Super Bowl win is infectious, and Guillermo's experience is surely a once-in-a-lifetime event!
The Ford Fiesta already is proving that it’s got the makings of a star, but now Ford’s new small car is serving as a vehicle to stardom for a few aspiring young artists. Three Fiestas are hitting the road with five young people in tow to promote Simon Fuller’s new reality show “If I Can Dream,” which follows the artists as they move to the Hollywood Hills looking for their big break.
The five artists include a musician, an actor, two actresses and a model, who will be mentored by the best in Hollywood while trying to make their dreams come true. All the while, their lives will be captured and streamed online in real-time, 24/7 on www.ificandream.com. It also will be available for TV viewers exclusively on Hulu, a Web site offering popular TV shows and movies from commercial networks.
Fiesta serves as the “sixth bedroom” of the show – it’s the artists’ primary way of transportation, and it is outfitted with three cameras so they can talk about their experiences through livestreaming.
The “If I Can Dream” tour will be visiting New York, Feb. 10-12; Boston, Feb. 14-15; Chicago, Feb. 16-17; Atlanta, Feb. 18; New Orleans, Feb. 19; Dallas, Feb. 21-22; Phoenix, Feb. 23; San Francisco, Feb. 24; and Los Angeles, Feb. 25.
Fiesta’s involvement with “If I Can Dream” builds on the success of the Fiesta Movement, a social media initiative that 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 have resulted in more than 100,000 handraisers.
Fiesta has it all – and more Going on sale this summer, the all-new Ford Fiesta features an expressive, vibrant design, sharp reflexes, and a global track record that will redefine U.S. small car customers’ expectations. With 15 class-exclusive technologies and a projected best-in-class highway fuel economy of 40 mpg, Fiesta brings efficiency and convenience together in one package.
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 the segment-exclusive SYNC® voice-activated communications system, as well as an expressive color palette and available graphics.
Already more than 6,000 consumers have made reservations for the Ford Fiesta – half of them from non-Ford customers – and more than 100,000 handraisers are showing an interest in the new fuel-efficient car. Customers can begin placing their order for the new Fiesta today through their local Ford dealer.
Quote “This is the perfect way for people across the country to connect with the Fiesta and the ‘If I Can Dream’ artists. Not only will they get to see the Fiesta up close, but they’ll get to meet the artists on the first part of this exciting journey.”
– Connie Fontaine, Ford Brand Content and Alliances Manager
The Ford Transit Connect hits the silver screen with an all-star ensemble cast in the New Line Cinema film, “Valentine’s Day,” which opens in theaters nationwide today.
The film follows the intertwining storylines of a diverse group of Los Angelinos as they navigate their way through romance and heartbreak over the course of one Valentine’s Day. One of the main characters is a florist who uses the Transit Connect to deliver flowers on love’s most celebrated holiday.
The Transit Connect featured in the movie is painted powder-puff pink and sports decals for the fictitious L.A. florist Siena Bouquet. Daly says as product placements go, this one is pretty prestigious.
In addition to the placement of the Transit Connect in “Valentine’s Day,” Ford Warriors in Pink is teaming up with the celebrity cast of the movie to help raise awareness for breast cancer. To learn more, please visit www.fordcares.com/valentinesdaymovie.
Quotes
“The delivery of flowers is one of the threads that ties all of the characters in the movie together. This film is heavily character-driven, so this is one of the few opportunities for a vehicle in the film to be showcased.”
– Brian Daly, Senior Vice President, Team Detroit and Ford Global Brand Entertainment
“We knew that the character of the florist was going to be a passionate entrepreneur, and since the Transit Connect is smaller than the typical cargo van, it conveys that ‘small business’ message to the viewer. We took it over to Warner Bros., and the production crew fell in love with it.”
– Brian Daly, Senior Vice President, Team Detroit and Ford Global Brand Entertainment
The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid earned the inaugural Hermance Vehicle Efficiency Award Wednesday at the Chicago Auto Show. The award is named for the late Dave Hermance, the legendary engineer and vocal proponent of hybrid-electric vehicles who died in 2006 at the age of 59 when his experimental plane crashed in the Pacific Ocean.
The Hermance award, which is given by BermanWorks, the media company behind HybridCars.com, honors new North American vehicles that best represent the vision of practical efficiency and risk-taking – two qualities the engineering wizard and avid pilot cherished. The voting committee recognized Fusion Hybrid for “setting a whole new benchmark” for mainstream hybrid-electric vehicles.
“The word that most evokes the design and engineering accomplishment seen in the Ford Fusion Hybrid is integration,” the Hermance Committee said in its official statement. “Any remnants of dissonance in joining the yin of gasoline with the yang of electricity – whether for the feel of regenerative braking or the twinge of motor-generator and engine transitions – have been erased. The result is a product that is indeed a feat of seamless fusion, one that truly creates a new paradigm for how hybrid cars should drive.”
The Hermance committee went on to praise Fusion Hybrid’s “no compromise” drivability and functionality as well as its SmartGauge™ with EcoGuide human-machine interface. Its independent members also predicted that the Fusion Hybrid will “stand the test of time as a product that, years from now, will mark the beginning of when hybrids became transparent in terms of how they operate.”
The committee concluded that Dave Hermance himself would approve of Ford’s accomplishment with the Fusion Hybrid, “marrying a seamless, sophisticated hybrid powertrain to a highly competitive product, positioned solidly in the middle of the mainstream market.”
Quote
“This is a tremendous honor. Dave Hermance’s commitment to producing efficient vehicles for the 21st century is the same kind of commitment our team brings to work everyday.”
– Lisa Drake, Chief Engineer of Ford’s Global Hybrid and Battery Electric Vehicle programs
This is the moment you’ve been waiting for… cars and consumer electronics have never been as beautifully aligned as they are now.
MyFord Touch driver connect technology, launching on the 2011 Ford Edge, is designed to be powerful yet intuitive for drivers, blending strengths of the most proven interfaces in consumer electronics – including MP3 players and mobile phones – with a new generation of Ford’s award-winning SYNC system.
MyFord redesigns the in-car interface, mirroring how consumers interact with most devices in their lives using touch-sensitive buttons, touch screens, thumb-wheel controls and voice recognition.
In that respect, MyFord is instantly familiar. Using reconfigurable displays and simplified voice commands, though, MyFord also can present multiple layers of information, just as the driver wants it.
MyFord Touch layout
MyFord Touch retains the traditional car interior layout that has existed for decades – instrument cluster in front of the driver, center stack dividing the dashboard – and adds even more voice control plus full-color LCD screens for much of the visual information presentation. The information presented is customizable by the driver using a combination of voice controls, touch-screen technology and five-way cell phone-style buttons mounted on the steering wheel.
MyFord Touch displays information using two 4.2-inch full-color LCD screens flanking an analog speedometer and an 8-inch touch-screen LCD at the top of the center stack. A five-way switch on each side of the steering wheel crossbar – similar to the one found on most mobile phones and MP3 players – controls the information displayed on the corresponding instrument panel screens.
Regardless of what menus customers are viewing, a single touch on the appropriate corner will always bring up the desired functionality, and in most cases, a voice command also can be used to adjust the controls.
With the four-corner layout, functions are where they’re expected to be, and they’re always visible on the screen, so it’s clear and easy for users to understand where they are in the system.
Color also is used to give drivers intuitive visual cues between the central 8-inch MyFord Touch display and the instrument panel-mounted 4.2-inch display. Phone and communications functions always are presented with an orange background, navigation with a green background, climate control with a blue background and audio/entertainment functions with a red background.
SYNC – behind the scenes
Behind the displays of MyFord Touch driver connect technology, the next generation of Ford’s award-winning SYNC system runs the show, built using the Microsoft Windows Embedded Auto software platform.
SYNC has evolved from a stand-alone module providing voice-activated control for mobile devices to a fully integrated platform for Ford vehicles with MyFord – a technology that will become the global interior architecture for all future Ford products.
Flexible and upgradable
Built using the latest technology from the Windows Embedded Business at Microsoft, the second generation of SYNC has been designed from the outset to be expandable, allowing it to grow and add new features without requiring new hardware. By employing a Media Hub for interfacing with external devices and media, Ford has helped ensure compatibility with future innovations.
Quotes
“MyFord Touch, combined with new SYNC functionality, creates an experience that will cause people to fall in love with their vehicles again. It’s not just a technology; it’s an experience – one we hope will have people across the globe looking forward to spending time behind the wheel of their vehicle.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Ford Group Vice President, Global Product Development
“MyFord really is about managing information. Driving is the priority when you’re behind the wheel, so we’ve made it possible to simplify the content management so customers can drive with minimal distraction. In the end, what MyFord displays is really up to the driver.”
– Jason Johnson, Ford User Interface Design Engineer
“The steering wheel has all the necessary functions available in a very compact area, right where your hand falls as you grab the wheel. The five-way buttons will feel familiar to anyone who has used a mobile phone or MP3 player. Drivers aren’t forced to use a quirky or unfamiliar interface like a joystick or rotary knob.”
– Jason Johnson, Ford User Interface Design Engineer
“With more than 1 million SYNC-equipped cars on the road already, it’s exciting to see Ford continue to push the envelope and explore new applications for Microsoft’s Windows Embedded automotive software. The car is returning to the place where consumers go to see high-tech innovation.”
– Kevin Dallas, General Manager for Microsoft’s Windows Embedded Business Division
“The Media Hub is really the key to SYNC’s new upgradability. Take navigation: In the past, map data were stored on a hard drive and updates took hours to load from DVD. With SYNC and MyFord Touch, if you need a map update, you take the old SD card out of the Media Hub and pop in a new one. It’ll be the first time an automaker will offer something that competes with the cost and ease of personal navigation devices.”
– Jason Johnson, Ford User Interface Design Engineer
Remember when vehicles came with only one powertrain option? Ah, those were simpler times. But there’s something to be said about having options, too. After all, variety is the spice of life.
The 2011 Ford Edge, which launches this summer, showcases Ford’s impressive drive to bring new powertrain options to the customer. Both the Edge 3.5-liter V-6 and Edge Sport 3.7-liter V-6 use advanced engine valvetrain technology (Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing, or Ti-VCT) and clever control strategies to increase horsepower and torque to best-in-class levels. This beats competitors such as the BMW X5, Lexus RX350 and Audi Q5, all while delivering unsurpassed fuel economy of 27 mpg (3.5-liter V-6 highway).
The 3.5-liter V-6 produces 285 horsepower and 253 ft.-lb. of torque while the 3.7-liter V-6 delivers 305 horsepower and 280 ft.-lb. of torque – all on regular fuel. Edge’s unsurpassed fuel economy is not at the expense of power and performance. For example, the 3.5-liter V-6 with Ti-VCT technology delivers highway fuel economy that is 15 percent better than the Nissan Murano but produces 20 horsepower more.
Both engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The SelectShift Automatic™ transmission is standard on the 2011 Edge SEL and Limited series, with class-exclusive paddle activation of the SelectShift standard on the 2011 Edge Sport.
In addition, the arrival of the new 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4 engine in the months ahead will give customers yet more choice and will deliver class-leading fuel economy with impressive power and torque. All of this will be mated to a six-speed transmission that will help channel the impressive performance from the new EcoBoost engine. Since the launch of Edge in 2006, fuel economy performance has been drastically improved. With the introduction of the 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4, fuel economy on the 2011 Edge will be 30 percent better than it was in 2006.
Edge Sport adds more power, distinctive look
The 2011 Edge Sport is powered by a 3.7-liter Ti-VCT V-6 engine that produces 305 horsepower and is similar to the one added to the 2011 Ford Mustang. The 2011 Edge Sport includes all of the content found on Edge SEL as well as a specially tuned suspension, paddle shift transmission and its own unique style.
The Edge Sport’s class-exclusive 22-inch polished aluminum wheels have distinctive Tuxedo Black spoke accents. Other unique styling cues include a Tuxedo Black grille, smoked headlamp and taillamp treatment, body-color rocker moldings, oval chrome exhaust tips, body-color door cladding and revised body-color lower front and rear fascias.
Key interior differentiators are liquid silver smoke appliqués that are echoed in the silver smoke metallic leather seat inserts, aluminum pedals and class-exclusive paddle shifters, which activate the six-speed SelectShift Automatic transmission to give customers the option of a fun-to-shift manual experience.
In SelectShift mode, the transmission doesn’t second-guess the driver, offering total control over gear selection and performance feel. Upshifts, for instance, are not commanded at redline, and downshifts are allowed at the lowest gear possible as defined by the engine speed.
When the system is in manual mode, engine speed matching provides faster and smoother downshifts, and customers get the gear they request within the limits of the rev limiter.
When a lower gear is selected while descending a long downhill grade, the 2011 Ford Edge Sport in SelectShift mode will hold that gear until the driver manually upshifts or returns to the fully automatic setting. To ensure safe shifting, the transmission will downshift to the lowest acceptable gear, based on a calculated maximum speed. That means if a vehicle were traveling at highway speeds, the driver could not downshift to first gear in SelectShift mode.
Quotes
“Customers told us how much they like Edge’s design and dynamic driving quality. We listened and made sure the new 2011 Edge delivers that and more – including fuel economy leadership, unexpected levels of quietness, a strong new design with quality materials, and MyFord Touch driver connect technology that will change how people experience their vehicles.”
– Mark Fields, Ford’s President of The Americas
“The new Edge demonstrates how a refresh at Ford has become more than just a few design and interior tweaks. We have taken every element of the Edge and completely reworked it, including three new powertrains, two new transmissions, a bold new exterior design and a completely new interior. If you add in our industry-exclusive MyFord Touch system, you have a vehicle that will continue to stand out above all the competition on the road.”
– Elaine Bannon, Ford Edge Chief Engineer
“The 2011 Ford Edge Sport, with its exceptional powertrain, specially tuned suspension and unique style, offers a driving experience not seen in other crossovers, and really appeals to the driving enthusiast. Like the rest of the 2011 Ford Edge lineup, it perfectly blends technology and style.”
– Elaine Bannon, Ford Edge Chief Engineer
Taxis are getting progressively eco-friendly through the embrace of more fuel-efficient, zero-emissions technologies, which is great for fleet operators, passengers and pedestrians alike. Ford Motor Company, the leader in the North American taxi market, is enabling that trend to continue with its Ford Transit Connect Taxi, which will go into production and arrive in dealerships later this year as a 2011 model.
Making the announcement today at the Chicago Auto Show, Ford also said it will introduce engine prep packages on all Transit Connect models – base and taxi – allowing conversion to efficient, clean-burning compressed natural gas (CNG) or propane (LPG, or liquefied petroleum gas). Both CNG and LPG are popular among taxi operators because of their low cost of ownership.
The roomy, flexible interior of the Transit Connect – the 2010 North American Truck of the Year – is perfectly suited for taxi service and conversion to CNG and LPG. The vehicle’s 135 cubic feet of cargo space accommodates a compressed gas tank while leaving ample passenger legroom and cargo capacity.
To further serve taxi operators, Ford will provide required calibration specifications for the CNG or LPG conversion. By properly following Ford’s specifications, the conversion can be completed without voiding the engine’s warranty.
The alternative fuel advantage
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, CNG is less expensive and burns cleaner than gasoline, resulting in 30 percent to 40 percent less greenhouse gas emissions. Propane also burns cleaner than gasoline.
Compressed natural gas and propane offer more than sufficient power for vehicles because they are high-energy fuels. Another natural benefit for these fuels is they provide an overall lower emission of greenhouse gases compared to gasoline. Additionally, operating on CNG or LPG provides the operators lower fuel/operating costs for their fleet.
Furthermore, nearly 87 percent of natural gas used in the United States is domestically produced. There also are government tax credit incentives for fleets to convert to alternative fuels.
Since October 2009, CNG prep packages have been available on E-Series vans with 5.4-liter and 6.8-liter gas engines.
Building on taxi leadership
The “green” taxi isn’t new at Ford, which has been a leader in the taxi business for decades. Ford was the first manufacturer to introduce gas-electric hybrid-powered taxis into North American fleets with the launch of the Ford Escape Hybrid in San Francisco and New York City in early 2005.
Built on a dedicated commercial vehicle platform and tested to Ford tough truck standards, the Transit Connect Taxi – including gasoline-powered versions and those modified to operate on CNG/LPG – is designed to meet the extreme demands of taxi service.
With its standard 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine and automatic transmission, the conventionally powered Transit Connect is expected to deliver an estimated 30 percent improvement in fuel economy over many of today’s traditional taxis.
Quotes
“While meeting with taxi operators in cities throughout the U.S., we found considerable interest for vehicles that run on alternative fuels. The Transit Connect Taxi, combined with an engine modified by Ford to use CNG/LPG, is designed to meet that need. This marks a new era in ‘green’ transit.”
– Mark Fields, Ford’s President of The Americas
“Transit Connect already has proven that it offers tremendous versatility for commercial fleet use. The Transit Connect taxi, combined with the capability for CNG/LPG conversion, further demonstrates its flexibility.”
– Gerry Koss, Ford Fleet Marketing Manager
Fleet operators are among the early adopters of electric vehicles. That’s because their vehicles typically travel predictable, short-range routes with frequent stop-and-go driving in urban and suburban environments and they have a central location for daily recharging.
Well, Ford Motor Company has what may be the ultimate electric fleet vehicle going into production later this year – the zero-emissions, all-electric version of the Ford Transit Connect – the 2010 North American Truck of the Year.
The 2011 Transit Connect Electric will use a Force Drive electric powertrain manufactured and integrated by specialty upfitter Azure Dynamics.
Getting charged up and moving
Transit Connect Electric, which will accelerate at a similar rate as the gas-powered Transit Connect and will have a top speed of 75 mph, has a targeted range of up to 80 miles on a full charge.
Owners will have the option of recharging the Transit Connect Electric with either a standard 120V outlet or preferably a 240V charge station installed at the user’s base of operations for optimal recharging in six to eight hours. A transportable cord that works with both types of outlets will be available for recharging at both kinds of locations.
The vehicle’s charge port is located above the passenger-side rear wheel well. The onboard liquid-cooled 28-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack is charged by connecting the charge port. Inside the vehicle, an onboard charger converts the AC power from the electric grid to DC power to charge the battery pack.
Driving on electric power
When the vehicle is operating, battery power is provided to the drive motor through the electric powertrain’s motor controller. The motor controller uses throttle input from the driver to convert DC power supplied by the battery into three precisely timed signals used to drive the motor.
The onboard DC/DC converter allows the vehicle’s main battery pack to charge the onboard
12V battery, which powers the vehicle’s various accessories, such as headlights, power steering and coolant pumps.
In the Transit Connect Electric, the battery pack has been efficiently integrated without compromising interior passenger room and cargo space. The battery pack is expected to last the life of the vehicle.
An ideal platform
With a unique combination of car-like driving dynamics, cargo capacity, accessibility and low purchase and operation costs, the Transit Connect is an ideal choice for electrification.
The Transit Connect Electric is expected to offer lower cost of operation, because recharging with electricity is generally less expensive than refueling with gasoline. Users may also benefit from much lower maintenance costs over the life of the vehicle. Consider the following:
The number of components typical in an internal combustion engine and transmission are dramatically reduced in an electric vehicle to just a few moving parts in the electric motor and transaxle, which results in much fewer parts to wear out or maintain
Electric powertrains operate with solid state electronics, which have demonstrated low or no maintenance over the life of the product
Electric vehicles have completely sealed cooling systems that do not require refilling, replacement or flushing
Electric vehicles require no oil changes or tune-ups
There are no belts to wear out or break and no spark plugs or injectors to clean or adjust
There is no exhaust system to replace and no liquid fuel system to freeze or clog
The use of regenerative braking reduces wear and tear on brake pads
Quotes
“Transit Connect Electric exemplifies how we are leveraging our relationships as well as our hybrid and advanced powertrain programs to bring energy-efficient technologies from the laboratory to the street. Not only is this an ideal vehicle for eco-conscious fleet operators, it is an important part of Ford’s future.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Ford Group Vice President, Global Product Development
“We’re excited about the potential for our electrified vehicles. Today’s electric vehicle buyers are similar to early adopters of hybrid vehicles. People were a little hesitant about hybrids at first, but now they accept it and embrace it. We expect the same will be true of electric vehicles.”
– Praveen Cherian, Program Manager for the Transit Connect Electric
“There is an increasing interest in electrified vehicles, and we are committed to bringing these vehicles to the marketplace. Ford’s work with Azure and Johnson Controls-Saft to create a purely electric Transit Connect will allow us to offer fleet customers an additional option for eco-friendly transportation.”
– Nancy Gioia, Ford Director of Global Electrification
“The opportunity to work with Ford on the Transit Connect Electric is a breakthrough advancement for us at Azure and for the light-commercial vehicle market. For us, it’s an important evolution of our existing relationship with Ford. From an industry standpoint, we are seeing delivery fleet and utility vehicle operators move to smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles.”
– Scott Harrison, Azure Dynamics CEO
“With interest in eco-friendly vehicles stronger than ever among commercial and government fleet operators, the Transit Connect Electric promises to offer another unique solution for their needs.”
– Gerry Koss, Ford Fleet Marketing Manager
You heard the rumors and said “No way.” Well, you were only half right, because you should’ve said “Yes way.”
Ford’s Special Vehicle Team (SVT) engineers are taking high performance to a new level with the 2011 Ford Shelby GT500, resulting in a car that has an all-new aluminum-block engine, even better driving dynamics and handling, improved fuel economy and more horsepower than ever. You can pick your jaw up off the floor now. Read on, my friend.
Weight savings, new technology headline all-new aluminum engine
The 2011 Shelby GT500 is powered by an all-new aluminum-block 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 engine, which produces 550 horsepower and 510 ft.-lb. of torque, a 10 horsepower increase versus the 2010 model. The engine also is 102 pounds lighter than its predecessor, delivering a better power-to-weight ratio, improved fuel economy, acceleration, handling and steering precision.
The new engine uses state-of-the-art Plasma Transferred Wire Arc (PTWA) liner coating, a process that applies a 150-micron composite coating that contains nanoparticles on the internal surfaces of engine cylinder bores, replacing cast-iron liners typically used in aluminum engine blocks. The Intellectual Property Owners Education Foundation honored the inventors of the Ford-patented PTWA technology with the 2009 National Inventor of the Year Award.
This is the first Ford application of the technology, and it offers improved overall performance and durability, along with functional benefits of reduced friction between piston rings and cylinder bores, improved heat transfer due to increased surface contact area and a weight savings of 8.5 pounds compared to a typical steel-sleeved aluminum block. A mechanical roughening process provides higher material adhesion for the spray coating.
The PTWA process uses air and electricity to create a plasma jet of 35,000 degrees Fahrenheit, which melts a steel wire that is fed into a rotating spray gun. Using atomized air, the melted steel wire is blown into a specially machined surface of the aluminum-block engine cylinder bore. In the process of melting and applying the metal to the surface, the steel wire oxidizes, creating a composite coating consisting of both iron and iron oxide.
The new engine also has its roots in the iconic Ford GT. The new 5.4-liter engine is an evolution of the GT engine, with improved block structure through the use of a unique bulkhead chilled process and six-bolt billet main bearing caps. This new advanced engine will exceed Ford GT performance with its traditional supercharger technology.
Increased power and increased fuel economy
The 2011 Shelby GT500 combines power and fuel economy into one impressive package. This 2011 Shelby GT500 will be the first modern Shelby without the gas guzzler tax, thanks to the EPA-projected 23 mpg highway and 15 mpg city it will deliver. This is up from 22 mpg highway and 14 mpg city for the 2010 model.
The 5.4-liter V-8 achieves 80 percent of its torque between 1,750 and 6,250 rpm, giving the car a higher level of performance feel. A larger two-row intercooler for the supercharger system has 40 percent more cooling capacity, helping to make power more consistent in higher ambient conditions.
Fuel economy gains come from the new 102-pound-lighter aluminum-block engine, EPAS and detailed aerodynamic changes to the underside of the vehicle.
Dramatic performance upgrades
New for 2011 is an SVT Performance Package for enthusiasts who want even more performance out of their Shelby GT500 for racetrack-ready driving dynamics. Complete with all-new Goodyear Eagle® F1 SuperCar G: 2 tires that SVT engineers worked directly with Goodyear to develop, the car is ready to race. The tires offer superb dry traction and precise handling, complete with a race-inspired high-performance tread compound.
The optional package also offers unique styling, lighter wheels, a higher rear axle ratio and stiffer springs, and it is available on both the convertible and coupe. Data show the 2011 coupe with the SVT Performance Package is 3.0 seconds faster per lap than the 2010 Shelby GT500 on a 2.3-mile test track.
Carried over from 2010, the 2011 Shelby GT500 features AdvanceTrac®, Ford’s stability control system with several options for performance. Calibration of the system for the 2011 Shelby has been uniquely tailored to each vehicle configuration (base or optional) to optimize the performance.
SVT has worked very hard to make EPAS better than the outgoing hydraulic steering system. The addition of EPAS makes for a dramatic contribution to Shelby GT500 driving dynamics, with improved torque build-up and road feel that delivers quicker and more precise steering, increased effort on the racetrack or winding roads, and reduced effort in low-speed parking maneuvers.
Quotes
“The SVT team continues to push the performance standards of the Shelby to even higher levels and better refinement. All the changes we made reflect a desire for even better handling and outstanding driving dynamics – from weight savings to improved balance.”
– Jost Capito, Director of Global Performance Vehicles and Motorsports Business Development
“Cutting weight to improve performance is a tradition among hot rodders. It might not be as sexy as adding more horsepower or bigger brakes, but shaving pounds off of a car is the single smartest move you can make.”
– Carroll Shelby, Founder of Shelby American
“Ford’s Global Research and Advanced Engineering looks to all industries for advanced technologies – and this comes from aerospace. It’s the same technology you would find on aircraft engines. We’ve invented a coating as a replacement for cast iron that delivers improvements in power and performance and fuel economy.”
– Glenn Jorgensen, SVT Powertrain Team Leader
“The Ford GT has solidified itself as one of the world’s most coveted supercars. To make improvements to the engine from this supercar and make it available in a Mustang is impressive. The aluminum-block engine is robust and strong enough to produce the performance numbers and durability our customers demand.”
– Kerry Baldori, SVT Global Performance Vehicles Chief Functional Engineer
It sounds like something from a science fiction movie.
Partnering with top-ranked national and international universities, the Ford “Atoms to Engines” team challenged skeptics to develop the world’s first virtual materials modeling prediction tool. Come again? It’s a tool that allows the team to simulate the microstructures of a material before the first prototype is built.
In other words… the Atoms to Engines team blends engineering and science to develop physics-based computer models that predict how properties and materials will behave and change during the manufacturing process. Building these computer models integrates the study of product performance, manufacturing and materials; in some cases it requires analyzing metals down to their atomistic level.
The result? Components are more durable and efficiently constructed, which saves the company considerable development time and money. In fact, the process is estimated to save Ford between $2 and $5 million a year in reducing test requirements and product development time.
Computational materials engineering also has been used on the recently released 3.5-liter EcoBoost™ block and head and the soon-to-be-released 6.7-liter Power Stroke® diesel, where the technology enabled the use of aluminum cylinder heads, for a 160-pound weight savings.
Learn more about Ford’s Atoms to Engines team and its work in computational materials engineering.
Quote
“Computational materials engineering is about blending engineering and science. Why is it worth it? Reduction of test time. Higher-quality parts. In other words, you’re getting the highest possible quality at the lowest possible cost.”
– John Allison, Senior Technical Leader, Ford Research and Advanced Engineering
Higher sales for every brand and in every product category propelled Ford to a 24 percent sales increase in January versus a year ago.
Ford cars were up 43 percent, crossovers were up 20 percent, sport utilities were up 8 percent, and trucks and vans were up 14 percent. Among brands, Ford sales were up 26 percent, Lincoln sales were up 16 percent and Mercury sales were up 6 percent.
Market share up
Ford estimates its January U.S. total market share was approximately 16 percent – about 2 percentage points higher than in January 2009. Last year, Ford posted its first full-year U.S. market share increase since 1995.
Plus, every consumer metric about the Ford brand – including favorable opinion, consideration, shopping and intention to buy – ended the year at record levels. Last year, favorable opinion improved 27 percent and intention to buy Ford increased 30 percent.
Resale value up
Among full-line manufacturers, Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles recorded the largest gain in resale values from the 2009 to 2010 model year. The projected resale value of Ford vehicles increased by more than $1,300 per vehicle. Ford already holds a resale value advantage over its U.S.-based competitors, and it continues closing the gap on key imports with some Ford vehicles already having surpassed competing foreign vehicles.
Fleet sales up
In January, Ford sales to fleet customers more than doubled last January’s depressed levels (up 154 percent) when most fleet owners deferred vehicle purchases due to the credit crunch and uncertain business and economic conditions.
Ford posted gains in every fleet market – commercial, government and rental. On an annual basis, a majority of Ford’s fleet sales are to commercial and government customers where the Ford F-Series truck and Econoline van have long been top sellers. Today, products such as Fusion, Taurus and Escape are popular choices among fleet customers.
Quotes
“Ford’s focus on building products consumers want to buy and love to drive will continue. In 2010, we will give Ford customers even more reasons to Drive One.”
– Ken Czubay, Ford Vice President, U.S. Marketing Sales and Service
“People increasingly are discovering that the Ford difference is the strength of our products, particularly our leadership in quality, fuel efficiency, safety, smart technologies and value.”
– Ken Czubay, Ford Vice President, U.S. Marketing Sales and Service
“Resale value is a key indicator of brand health and an important contributor to the total value equation. Fleet managers monitor vehicle operating costs very carefully. They are giving Ford more consideration because of our improving resale values.”
– Ken Czubay, Ford Vice President, U.S. Marketing Sales and Service
Ford today reported a full year 2009 pre-tax operating profit, excluding special items, of $454 million, a $7.3 billion improvement over a year ago. The company said it now expects to be profitable for full year 2010 on a pre-tax basis excluding special items, for North America, total Automotive and total company, with positive Automotive operating-related cash flow.
Full year net income of $2.7 billion, or 86 cents per share, a $17.5 billion improvement from a year ago. Pre-tax operating profits of $454 million, a $7.3 billion improvement from a year ago++
Fourth quarter net income of $868 million, or 25 cents per share, a $6.8 billion improvement from a year ago. Pre-tax operating profits of $1.8 billion, a $5.5 billion improvement from a year ago++
Ford North America fourth quarter pre-tax operating profits of $707 million, a $2.6 billion improvement from a year ago++
Reduced Automotive structural costs by $500 million compared with the fourth quarter 2008, bringing the total 2009 reduction to $5.1 billion, exceeding the target of about $4 billion
Strong products drove full year market share gains in North America, South America and Europe as well as continued improvements in transaction prices and margins
Ended the year with $25.5 billion of Automotive gross cash and $34.3 billion in Automotive debt
Achieved positive Automotive operating-related cash flow of $3.1 billion for the fourth quarter. Full year Automotive operating-related cash outflow was $300 million, a $19.2 billion improvement over 2008
Ford Credit fourth quarter pre-tax operating profits of $696 million, a $1.1 billion improvement from a year ago
For full year 2010, Ford plans to be profitable on a pre-tax basis excluding special items, for North America, total Automotive and total company, with positive Automotive operating-related cash flow, based on its assumptions
Quotes
“While we still face significant business environment challenges ahead, 2009 was a pivotal year for Ford and the strongest proof yet that our One Ford plan is working and that we are forging a path toward profitable growth by working together as one team, leveraging our global scale. In every part of the world, we are providing customers with great products, building a stronger business and contributing to a better world. Our progress has helped us gain market share in most of our major markets.”
– Alan Mulally, Ford President and CEO
“We delivered very encouraging results in the fourth quarter and for full year 2009 despite severe economic headwinds, although our transformation remains a work in progress. We are committed to staying absolutely focused on executing our plan to deliver profitable growth.”
– Lewis Booth, Ford Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
“We are more convinced than ever that Ford has the right plan to lead us through the near-term economic and external operating pressures and continue to deliver profitable growth. The entire extended Ford team is absolutely committed to building on our progress and working together as a lean global enterprise focused on automotive leadership and delivering products with the best quality, fuel efficiency, safety, smart design and value around the world.”
– Alan Mulally, Ford President and CEO
Ford Warriors in Pink is making its big-screen debut with New Line Cinema’s all-star ensemble film Valentine’s Day to give the gift of hope in the fight against breast cancer this February. Before eager moviegoers can say “be mine” during love’s favorite season, fans will have the chance to win an action-packed Valentine’s Day Los Angeles getaway to attend the movie’s star-studded Feb. 8 premiere. Valentine’s Day opens nationwide Feb. 12.
By joining forces with Valentine’s Day, Ford is reaching out to people of all ages with vital messages about breast cancer awareness and the importance of early detection. As a 16-year partner of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Ford has dedicated more than $105 million to the breast cancer cause and remains committed to innovative ways to drive breast cancer awareness.
Fans can enter for a chance to win one of two Valentine’s Day getaway prize packages and watch the trailer powered by Ford Warriors in Pink (atwww.fordcares.com/valentinesdaymovie) – no sweet talk necessary.
You had me at all-expenses-paid
As part of the partnership, fans can enter through Feb. 1 to win an all-expenses-paid trip for two with red-carpet treatment to the Feb. 8 Valentine’s Day premiere in Los Angeles. From Feb. 1 through March 31, fans can enter to win an all-expenses-paid vacation for two to Los Angeles and a brand-new 2011 Ford Fiesta. Fans are also encouraged to come back to the site every day and enter themselves for a chance to win free passes to Valentine’s Day at their local theater.
As a part of the effort to find a cure, cast members model pieces from the Ford Warriors in Pink apparel collection in national print ads, which will appear in publications including People, US Weekly, InStyle, SELF and Glamour. Stars, including Jessica Alba, Jessica Biel, Eric Dane, Patrick Dempsey, Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Garner, Topher Grace, Anne Hathaway and George Lopez appear in the ads to remind viewers that breast cancer touches the lives of people of all ages.
The apparel collection is available for purchase on www.FordCares.com and each piece features important symbols signifying the message of hope, strength and unity in the commitment to the fight against breast cancer. Ford donates 100 percent of net proceeds to Susan G. Komen for the Cure – not just on Valentine’s Day, but 365 days a year.
Click here to download PDF.
Quotes “Ford Warriors in Pink actively works on creative efforts to continue the fight against breast cancer 365 days a year. The exposure from Valentine’s Day and the strength and unity of the all-star cast heightens the awareness of this important initiative – leading to early detection and saving lives through the funds generated at Fordcares.com.”
– Connie Fontaine, Brand Content and Alliances Manager, Ford Motor Company
“This is a wonderful and rare opportunity to partner with an organization in a promotion that creatively brings attention to a very worthy cause. The movie Valentine’s Day is about the one day devoted to expressions of love, and what better way to express how much you care than to support the fight against breast cancer.”
– Nicole Sedita, Vice President, Warner Bros. National Promotions
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
Two notable Fords will play prominent roles in the 2010 NCAA Men's Frozen Four, which will be held April 8-10 at Ford Field in Detroit.
Ford Executive Chairman Bill Ford will serve as co-chairman of the Detroit Local Organizing Committee for the Frozen Four. And the Ford Transit Connect, recently named North American Truck of the Year, will serve as the official vehicle for the prestigious NCAA championship event.
Bill Ford co-chairs Detroit Local Organizing Committee for NCAA Men's Frozen Four
In his role as co-chairman, Ford will oversee Detroit Local Organizing Committee activities and fundraising, as well as host efforts for a series of public events, including a FanFest, open practices and Frozen Four Friday, which will feature exciting skills challenges involving the championship team players, autograph sessions and NCAA Division 1 Men's Ice Hockey award announcements.
Ford and fellow co-chairman Christopher Ilitch announced details of upcoming Frozen Four activities at Detroit's Campus Martius Park today. The two avid ice hockey fans and longtime players skated onto the ice wearing special Frozen Four hockey sweaters with Ford No. 20 and Ilitch No. 10 (displaying "2010" when photographed side by side) on the backs of their jerseys. They also took turns skating and stick-handling on the ice with more than 25 local youth players.
Ford Transit Connect: Official vehicle of the NCAA Men's Frozen Four
As the official vehicle of the Frozen Four, the Ford Transit Connect will serve as a "billboard on wheels" for the event, traveling to nearly a dozen CCHA games and the conference championship at Detroit's Joe Louis Arena in March before returning to Ford Field for the Frozen Four Championship in April.
The Transit Connect is decaled with a Frozen Four logo and ticket information, the CCHA crest and symbols of the 12 college teams participating in the CCHA tournament. In addition to promotion, the vehicle will be used to transport hockey gear to and from various locations.
Powered by a 2.0-liter I-4 engine with a four-speed automatic overdrive transmission, the Transit Connect offers double the fuel economy of full-size vans, delivering an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.
Quotes
"We believe that with the leadership of Bill Ford in the role of co-chairman, the 2010 Frozen Four at Ford Field will be a tremendous success. Not only is he an extremely successful and visionary businessman and committed civic leader, he also is a great sportsman and passionate hockey fan who loves the game of hockey and even plays the game himself."
– Tom Anastos, Commissioner, CCHA
"We were looking for a head-turning vehicle to use for mobile promotion of our Championship. The Transit Connect's unique look, great utility, excellent fuel mileage and recent distinction as the 2010 North American Truck of the Year make it the perfect choice."
– Tom Anastos, Commissioner, CCHA
"The Transit Connect's large side panels make it an ideal promotional tool for the Frozen Four. It also is an excellent utility vehicle, with more than 135 cubic feet of cargo space and up to 1,600 pounds of cargo-carrying capacity. And it's more fuel efficient than other cargo vans, making it a cost-effective choice for road trips."
– Damoni Hurt, Transit Connect Marketing Manager
Stars of the new Lincoln vehicle lineup – and musical stars from the brand's popular television ads – will shine brightly during music's biggest night, the 52nd GRAMMY Awards®, which airs at 8 p.m. EST on Sunday, Jan. 31 on CBS.
Continuing with its music-infused advertising, Lincoln will present viewers with unique concert-like commercials for the Lincoln MKZ, Lincoln MKT and Lincoln MKS that integrate seamlessly into the GRAMMY show, featuring the Shiny Toy Guns performing the group's hit rendition of "Major Tom."
The Lincoln ads on GRAMMY night will encourage people to visit www.lincoln.com/music, where they will be able to see the full concert performance of Shiny Toy Guns as well as behind-the-scenes footage from that band and Sia, an Australian pop singer who performs the track for the current Lincoln MKT commercial. They also will be able to listen to music from four up-and-coming artists, vote for the band they think should perform the music for the next Lincoln ad, and check out the latest Lincoln products.
Unique music draws new customers to the Lincoln brand
Lincoln has been using music to draw new, younger customers to the brand since the launch of the Lincoln MKS in 2008.
The soundtracks for the Lincoln commercials, which feature new remakes of popular hits like "Burnin' for You" (featured in Lincoln MKS EcoBoost), "Major Tom (Coming Home)," used with Lincoln MKZ, and "Under the Milky Way," now airing with the new Lincoln MKT, are performed by contemporary new bands to showcase the new cars and crossovers.
If the number of hits on YouTube is any indication, the commercials have been wildly successful. The Lincoln MKZ ad, which features Shiny Toy Guns singing "Major Tom," has received more than 447,000 views and was voted the most popular ad song of the year for 2009 by Adtunes. And Cat Power's version of "Space Oddity," the soundtrack for the Lincoln MKS commercial, has racked up more than 420,000 views.
According to Zaremba, the commercials may also be impacting sales. The brand is attracting new customers, many of whom are coming from other makes. From 2005 to 2009, Lincoln's share of the luxury segment increased 30 percent.
Lincoln: Multicultural appeal
In addition to the innovative Lincoln commercials airing during the GRAMMY telecast, Lincoln also is the official sponsor of the first-ever ESSENCE Black Women in Music event, which will be held today at the Sunset Towers Hotel in Hollywood, Calif., as part of GRAMMY Week.
To commemorate its 40th anniversary, ESSENCE magazine will host a reception honoring nine-time GRAMMY winner Mary J. Blige. The invitation-only, red-carpet event will fete the career and accomplishments of Blige as an influential artist, successful entrepreneur and passionate philanthropist.
As part of the sponsorship, Lincoln will have two 2010 Lincoln MKS vehicles on display, a custom advertorial honoring the top GRAMMY picks in ESSENCE magazine, and inclusion in the event's recap story both inside ESSENCE magazine and online at www.essence.com.
Awareness of the Lincoln brand continues to grow within the African American market, particularly as it relates to African American women.
The current Lincoln vehicle lineup has received positive sentiment from African American women in recent ESSENCE Music Festival qualitative research. According to that research, the women associate characteristics such as "modern" and "stylish" with the new Lincoln nameplates, and express willingness to consider the brand's vehicles with the knowledge that all the amenities they seek can be found on Lincoln vehicles.
Lincoln's sponsorship of the ESSENCE Black Women in Music event comes on the heels of the brand's recent sponsorship of the 2009 ESSENCE Music Festival in New Orleans.
Quotes
"The GRAMMY Awards bring out music lovers who are not only looking for cool music but also up-and-coming bands. We are giving this audience what they tuned in for."
– Connie Fontaine, Brand Content and Alliances Manager, Ford Motor Company
"This is our way of introducing Lincoln to a new audience who may not be aware that we have a relevant product offering for them. We hope they'll give us some of their time and interact with us as we educate them on who Lincoln is today."
– Thomais Zaremba, Lincoln Marketing Communications Manager
"These are songs that Generation Xers – one of Lincoln's primary audiences – are familiar with, but they've been redone in fresh new voices that really grab attention. The new twist on these classics is really symbolic of the fresh new Lincoln showroom that we have."
– Thomais Zaremba, Lincoln Marketing Communications Manager
"Lincoln has grown share over the past couple of years, and we're gaining conquest customers," said Zaremba. "That's attributable to the fantastic new products we've put on the showroom floor, and if the popularity of the Lincoln music videos is any indication, the advertising is helping as well."
– Thomais Zaremba, Lincoln Marketing Communications Manager
"We are extremely excited and honored to be a part of the first-ever ESSENCE Black Women in Music event. Music has always played a key role in how we've worked to increase awareness of the Lincoln brand within the urban market. To be part of an event that allows us to further this strategy, and to do so tied to an event honoring a musical artist of Mary J. Blige's status is incredible."
– Crystal Worthem, Lincoln Multicultural Marketing Manager
DTE Energy of southeastern Michigan, one of Ford Motor Company’s utility partners conducting real world testing of the plug-in hybrid electric Ford Escape, invited PHEV-curious consumers into its “Smart Garage” at the North American International Auto Show. There, DTE demonstrated how electric vehicle users will use smart meter technology to recharge their vehicle using renewable energy sources such as solar panels.
In this video, DTE Energy manager Hawk Asgeirsson talks about the potential for electric vehicles and smart garages.
“Come on, baby, don't you want to go… sweet home Chicago” goes the classic blues song by Robert Johnson. Had the song been written today it might have been about the next-generation Ford Explorer, which will be produced at Ford’s Chicago Assembly Plant beginning in the fourth quarter of this year, the company announced today.
Ford is investing nearly $400 million in its Chicago manufacturing facilities to launch production of the new, fuel-efficient Ford Explorer. The company also will add 1,200 new jobs to staff a second production shift at Chicago Assembly Plant and increase production at the nearby Chicago Stamping Plant.
The next-generation Explorer will be built at the Chicago Assembly Plant on a flexible assembly line alongside the new Ford Taurus and Lincoln MKS sedans. Ford’s $400 million investment includes approximately $180 million in manufacturing investment at the Chicago sites and about $220 million for launch and engineering costs. In addition, Ford will be making significant investment in supplier tooling to support next-generation Explorer production.
Explorer to have better fuel economy, inflatable seat belts
The new Explorer will deliver at least 25 percent better fuel economy than the current model. The vehicle will feature unibody construction, Ford’s EcoBoost engine technology, a six-speed transmission and lightweight materials. Ford will provide full details about the new Explorer later this year.
In addition, the next-generation Explorer will debut the auto industry’s first-ever production inflatable seat belts, designed to provide additional protection for rear-seat occupants – often children and older passengers who can be more vulnerable to head, chest and neck injuries. The inflatable rear seat belts spread crash forces over five times more area of the body than conventional seat belts, which helps to reduce pressure on the chest and to control head and neck motion for rear-seat passengers. Ford eventually plans to offer inflatable seat belt technology on other vehicles globally.
An economic infusion
In planning for the company’s future manufacturing presence in the state, Ford worked closely with Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn, who led an effort in passing legislation that allows Ford to participate in Illinois’ Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) program, which provides tax incentives to businesses that commit to new investments and create or retain jobs in the state. This legislation allows Ford to participate in the EDGE program through payroll tax credits rather than corporate income taxes.
Ford’s investment of $400 million in Chicago-area manufacturing facilities and Explorer’s fuel economy improvement of at least 25 percent is also supported by Ford’s green partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy. Chicago Assembly Plant is one of 11 Ford facilities in the U.S. participating in the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Incentives Program initiated by Congress and implemented by the Obama administration. The program is helping to develop advanced technology vehicles and strengthen American manufacturing across the country. Ford, Nissan, Tesla, Fisker and Tenneco are all participants in this initiative.
The current Explorer and Explorer Sport Trac models are built at the company’s Louisville Assembly Plant in Kentucky. Shifting production of the next-generation Explorer to Chicago Assembly paves the way for Louisville Assembly to undergo transformation to a flexible, fuel-efficient small car plant from a truck-based SUV plant. Ford will begin producing new vehicles at Louisville Assembly based on its global C-car platform in 2011. The specific models will be named at a later date.
The Chicago Assembly Plant, opened in 1924, currently has approximately 1,200 employees working on one shift. Ford’s Chicago Stamping Plant, which opened in 1956, has approximately 700 employees on two shifts. Opened in 1955, Louisville Assembly Plant has approximately 1,000 employees operating on one shift.
Quotes
“The new Explorer will redefine the SUV for the modern era – retaining the capability customers want while delivering superb fuel efficiency, comfort and convenience. This investment underscores Ford’s commitment to building world-class, fuel-efficient vehicles in America and creating new jobs that will contribute to our nation’s economic recovery.”
– Mark Fields, Ford’s President of The Americas
“Our Chicago Assembly Plant – with its excellent work force, lean and flexible manufacturing processes, and proud history of making great Ford vehicles – is the ideal choice for building the new Explorer. The plant successfully has launched two new vehicles in the past two years and our Chicago employees consistently deliver with an eye on quality, efficiency and safety.”
– Jim Tetreault, Ford Vice President, North America Manufacturing
“Governor Quinn immediately understood the importance of helping Ford by proposing and passing legislation that provides us with an alternative way to claim and secure these important tax credits. We are grateful for his support of Ford and auto manufacturing in Illinois, and want to thank him for his leadership.”
– Mark Fields, Ford’s President of The Americas
“The production of the new Ford Explorer will create 1,200 new jobs here in Illinois. The Economic Development for a Growing Economy tax credit, which I put the full weight of my administration behind and signed into law in December, has provided much needed relief to our state’s ailing automotive industry and the necessary incentives for one of our nation’s leading car companies to stay in the Land of Lincoln.”
– Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn
“Ford has been a major presence in our city since 1924 when it opened this plant to make the Model T. The company has demonstrated its commitment to Chicago by spending millions of dollars to modernize the facility in recent years, and I want to thank the company for that commitment and for its faith in Chicago and its residents.”
– Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley
Game on! The 2010 Ford Taurus takes a giant leap into cyberspace today, starring in a new online interactive game that takes product placement in casual gaming to the next level by fully integrating the vehicle and its technology and features into the gaming experience.
The game, “White Collar: Chasing the Shadow,” is an extension of the critically acclaimed USA NETWORK drama “White Collar,” which follows a con artist and FBI agent who team up to catch bad guys. The Taurus is not only featured prominently in the television series but now in a new online game that allows players – acting as FBI trainees – to drive the Taurus and use its features to catch a notorious villain dubbed “The White Shadow.”
What makes this initiative unique is that the 2010 Taurus isn’t just along for the ride. The new and class-exclusive technologies in the Taurus are used to interpret clues and collect evidence.
For example, players use the Ford SYNC technology to access text messages that contain important crime-solving tips.
Online game product placement: Kicking it up a notch
Product placement in online games is not new for Ford, but the depth of the Taurus integration in “White Collar: Chasing the Shadow” is.
Ford is continually looking for ways to extend partnerships – like the one with USA NETWORK – in meaningful ways.
If you would like to experience the Taurus in the new online game, please visit http://chasingtheshadow.usanetwork.com/ and click on the “games” tab at the top of the page.
Quotes
“Features like SYNC, SecuriCode, Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning are used in the online game as they would be by a real-world consumer, and they seamlessly contribute to the game’s plot and puzzles. The game also is episodic in nature, giving players the ability to come back and solve new puzzles weekly and vary the ways in which they interact with the Taurus.”
– Connie Fontaine, Ford Brand Content & Alliances Manager
“This is a more immersive, realistic and storytelling-based experience that is more closely aligned with television and movie product integration,” he said. “It raises the bar by providing realistic environments and compelling game play that showcases the Taurus and its features to consumers.”
– Jonathan Beebe, Taurus Digital Marketing Manager
“What we really liked about creating the online game with USA is that it not only introduces Taurus to millions of consumers through the popularity of online gaming but provides them with a very engaging way to experience the innovative technology and features in the new Taurus.”
– Jeff Eggen, Ford Car Experiential Marketing Manager
Engineers at United Space Alliance (USA) and Ford Motor Company are sharing their animation software experiences to create virtual reality simulations that benefit both astronauts and drivers.
Ford is applying virtual reality animation software that is used by movie animators and video game creators to improve real-life driving situations before the first prototype is even built. In an immersive Virtual Evaluation lab (iVE), Ford engineers create virtual vehicles complete with exterior views.
Space-age sedan
Engineers for USA, the prime Space Shuttle contractor, are using the same technology at the Kennedy Space Center to help build future space vehicles safer and more efficiently. Current applications include using the technology to track and characterize launch debris during ascent. Past applications include developing processes to more efficiently remove and re-install the reinforced carbon-carbon panels on the Space Shuttle wing leading edges.
In the case of the Lincoln MKS, for example, iVE was used to test multiple iterations of the sedan’s centerstack at varying eye points. The intent is to find the best possible placement of controls and displays not only for aesthetics and visibility, but it helps engineers and designers to see how certain designs and layouts look before the vehicle is built.
Ford iVE technicians can put themselves in the customer’s shoes and get a better understanding of how the vehicle’s dashboard displays look from the customer’s point of view or evaluate height of the centerstack, for example. They can then judge things like whether the cockpit feels too crowded or cavernous, if all the buttons and dials on the dashboard are visible and within reach, and whether the layout is appealing.
Virtual vehicle development
Ford is the auto industry leader when it comes to melding state-of-the-art motion capture and immersive virtual reality tools. Using analytical data derived from those tests, Ford can test targets in the iVE lab to improve visibility, quality and comfort of its vehicles, while significantly reducing the time and cost that come with prototype development.
Ford engineers, using a suite of virtual tools including animation software, have shaved eight to 14 months off the time it took to develop a vehicle five years ago.
USA, a leading space operations company, is also using the same digital animation tool to develop models that accurately predict how the loss of materials would affect liftoff of the Space Shuttle or the next generation vehicles.
Working with Ford, USA is looking at ways to customize the technology used by Ford to help it make quick decisions about repairs and maintenance, as well as determine the best decisions should a spacecraft face unexpected events.
These two teams are sharing information to the benefit of both. Ford engineers have helped USA to specify software enhancements to human simulation software and motion tracking technology with the goal of simulating spacecraft repairs.
In turn, USA engineers have provided expertise to Ford engineers to enhance the immersive virtual experience by improving response time, allowing for a smoother and more realistic environment. They’ve also provided expertise on computer and projection hardware.
Quotes
“In this virtual environment, we can evaluate early vehicle designs against a backdrop of virtual conditions and literally experience a vehicle from someone else’s vantage point before it is built, helping us to create a car, truck or crossover that provides the perfect environment for the driver and its occupants.”
– Elizabeth Baron, Ford’s Virtual Reality and Advanced Visualization Technical Specialist
“Being able to evaluate a vehicle in the virtual world allows us to duplicate anything to recreate a realistic driving experience. We’re even able to include passing cars, pedestrians and animated towns in the driving experience.”
– Elizabeth Baron, Ford’s Virtual Reality and Advanced Visualization Technical Specialist
“The opportunities working with the Ford Visualization team are providing us invaluable knowledge in combining ergonomic analysis with visualization technology. It was extremely interesting to see how similar our efforts are regarding automobile and spacecraft processing. When the two teams got together a wealth of creative ideas were formed and lasting friendships were made. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with the Ford team.”
– Brad Lawrence, USA Computer Science Lead
“Helping our designers build cars that are a better fit for drivers and passengers is a thrill and teaming up and sharing ideas with USA for the benefit of our space program is a whole other level of cool. We’ve learned a great deal from USA about how to make our virtual lab even more life-like for engineers and designers so our new vehicles look and feel just right inside.”
– Elizabeth Baron, Ford’s Virtual Reality and Advanced Visualization Technical Specialist
“Ford is better able to refine the design of new vehicles, and USA aims to prepare for any scenario that lies ahead.”
– Elizabeth Baron, Ford’s Virtual Reality and Advanced Visualization Technical Specialist
Ford’s new 2011 Mustang GT will serve as the Official Pace Car at this year’s 52nd Daytona 500, the first time in 40 years a Ford vehicle has paced NASCAR’s biggest and most prestigious race.
Under the hood of the Mustang GT Glass Roof Coupe will be Ford’s all-new 5.0-liter V-8, which will be available to customers in dealer showrooms this spring.
Before the new Ford Mustang takes to the track, one lucky enthusiast will have the rare opportunity to own the pace car pony and help a deserving charity at the same time.
The Race Red Mustang, which carries a special Daytona 500 striped paint scheme, will be auctioned at the 39th Annual Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Collector Car Auction on Jan. 23 at WestWorld of Scottsdale, in Scottsdale, Ariz. The event will be televised live on the SPEED channel. All proceeds from the car over MSRP will benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), a leader in research leading to a cure for Type 1 diabetes.
This is the first time in four decades that a Ford Motor Company vehicle will pace the Daytona 500. The last time was in 1970 when the Ford Torino GT convertible had the honors.
In addition to the special paint, the Mustang pace car features a Brembo brake package, Ford Racing suspension, strut tower brace and mufflers, unique 19-inch painted wheels, summer-only tires and a special interior treatment, including lit sill plates. It also carries an early VIN and will be among the first 2011 Mustang GT 5.0-liter V-8s made available for sale to the public.
Quotes
“This is the resurgence of Ford, and pacing the field at the Daytona 500 is a great opportunity to showcase all of the technology that the new 2011 Mustang 5.0 brings to deliver 412 horsepower and projected unsurpassed highway mileage of 25 mpg,”
– Mark Fields, President, The Americas.
“Over the past three years, Ford is proud to have raised more than $2 million for JDRF through the sales of vehicles at Barrett-Jackson. This year, one lucky bidder will not only experience the thrill of seeing his or her 2011 Mustang pacing the Daytona 500 in front of 43 of the world’s greatest race car drivers, but will contribute toward finding a cure for juvenile diabetes at the same time.”
– Jamie Allison, Director, Ford North America Motorsports
“It would be a thrill to own this early VIN, one-of-one 2011 Mustang GT Glass Roof Coupe Daytona 500 Pace Car and watch it lead the famous race in February. And knowing that you helped an amazing organization like JDRF would make it even better.”
– Steve Davis, President of Barrett-Jackson
For the first time ever, American’s favorite muscle car will pace ‘The Great American Race.’
For the first time in 40 years, a Ford Motor Company car will be pacing the field for the NASCAR season-opening Daytona 500 when the 2011 Mustang GT, powered by the all-new 5.0-liter V-8 engine, officially starts the race on Feb. 14 at Daytona International Speedway.
This latest version of Ford’s legendary muscle car will be a Race Red glass roof coupe with an all-new 5.0-liter V-8 engine capable of producing 412 horsepower, while delivering a class-leading 25 mpg on the highway.
The one-of-a-kind model will feature a special Daytona 500 paint scheme, Ford Racing suspension, strut tower brace and mufflers, unique painted wheels, and special interior treatment, including specially branded lit sill plates.
The 2011 Mustang GT Daytona 500 Pace Car model is one of only 50 special editions that will be built and sold to the public.
The last time a Ford served as pace car for the Daytona 500 was 1970 when a Ford Torino GT convertible led the field to the green flag.
And while Mustang may be a rookie when it comes to pacing the Daytona 500, its 45-year history is firmly entrenched in racing and winning championships. Mustang captured championships last year in the Grand-Am KONI and SCCA SPEED World Challenge, in addition to leading Robert Hight to his first NHRA Funny Car championship.
Another element that makes this year’s pace car even more unique is that it will be auctioned off for charity before the actual race. Later this week (Jan. 23), the Mustang GT Daytona 500 Pace Car will be offered at the annual Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Collector Car Auction, which is taking place in Scottsdale, Ariz. Seven-time Daytona 500 champion Richard Petty, the newest member of the Ford Racing family, will be on site to help hand over the car to the winning bidder.
All proceeds over the manufacturer’s suggested retail price from the pace car auction will go to help cure childhood diabetes through a donation to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
About the 2011 Mustang GT
The new Mustang GT continues Ford’s powertrain offensive with an all-new 5.0-liter V-8, which uses advanced technology to deliver 412 horsepower and projected unsurpassed highway mileage of 25 mpg.
The 2011, Mustang GT adds specially tuned Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS), 11.5-inch front and 11.8-inch rear vented disc brakes, and an enhanced suspension featuring an improved rear lower control arm and stiffened rear stabilizer bushings.
For enthusiasts, a Brembo brake package, with larger rotors and calipers from the Ford Shelby GT500® Mustang, unique 19-inch wheels and summer performance tires, is offered; new fender badges herald return of the 5.0-liter engine.
Quotes
“Having the opportunity to pace America’s biggest auto race with a Ford icon like the 2011 Mustang GT is truly an honor. And to have the new 5.0-liter engine powering the car will be a great way to demonstrate its power and class-leading fuel economy.”
– Jamie Allison, director, Ford North America Motorsports
“Everybody loves Mustang. That was evident last year from the fan reaction when we announced it was going to be our new model in the NASCAR Nationwide Series starting later this year. This is just another way to showcase a true American icon in its most natural environment.”
– Jamie Allison, director, Ford North America Motorsports
The AutoWeek editorial staff has named Ford’s next-generation Focus the “Most Significant” vehicle of the 2010 North American International Auto Show. High praise indeed, considering the number of excellent cars and trucks at this month’s annual gathering in Detroit. The popular auto show hosted nearly 40 new vehicle premieres.
The next-generation Ford Focus made its worldwide debut Monday, Jan. 11 at the 2010 North American International Auto Show. Scheduled to go on sale in both North America and Europe early in 2011, the new Focus will offer customers more affordable technologies and features than ever in this segment, noteworthy levels of craftsmanship, outstanding fuel economy and a new standard for driving quality.
The prestigious AutoWeek award is being presented just three days after Ford received both the North American Car and Truck of the Year awards for the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid and 2010 Ford Transit Connect, respectively.
Sleek, stylish and sporty, the new Focus will eventually be sold in 122 markets, with up to 80 percent parts commonality. The Focus will be built on Ford’s new C-car platform, which will underpin up to 10 unique models and generate sales of 2 million units annually.
The next-generation Ford Focus will be on public display at NAIAS – along with other award-winning Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles – in Detroit’s Cobo Hall through Jan. 24.
For more information
For photos and more information on the next-generation Ford Focus, please click here to reach the global media site.
Quotes
“This was a unanimous vote, one of the few in the history of the AutoWeek award. This car gives Ford and Focus fans their car back. By that we mean enthusiasts have been crying for the European Focus for years and we’re finally getting our wish. We also think it’s a perfect platform for an SVT version. The car goes on sale in 2011 powered by a sporty four-cylinder engine mated to a DSG transmission, and we can’t wait to drive it.”
– Wes Raynal, Editor of AutoWeek and autoweek.com
“We are delighted and humbled with the initial response to the next-generation Ford Focus. The new Focus is a direct result of our new global product development system and perhaps the best example yet of what we believe a global Ford product should be – great to look at, great to sit in and great to drive. This is truly ONE Ford in action.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s Group Vice President for Global Product Development
“I'm goin down down baby, yo' street in a… Mustang GT?” Okay, maybe the lyrics to Nelly’s “Country Grammar” didn’t used to go that way, but maybe they do now. “Street sweeper, baby, cocked ready to let it go…”
The 2011 Mustang 5.0-liter V-8 is set to make its hip-hop debut alongside Grammy Award-winning artist Nelly as part of his upcoming album’s artwork. The album, set to launch this spring, will feature a tricked-out 2011 Mustang GT customized by DUB Magazine.
The 35-year-old rapper, actor and mogul, who was most recently ranked third on Billboard Magazine’s “Artist of the Decade List,” says the Mustang is one of the hottest muscle cars ever to hit the streets.
Nelly’s tricked-out Mustang GT came to life after the artist caught a glimpse of the vehicle while inside the walls of Ford’s design studio a little more than a year ago as part of a partnership tied to the launch of the 2009 Ford Flex. Since then, Nelly has collaborated with Ford’s design team and DUB’s customization team to make the Mustang his own while still keeping the vehicle true to its muscle car roots.
The exterior of the vehicle features a custom gloss black paint job with flat black racing stripes and a Street Scenes body kit complete with custom 22- and 24-inch wheels and Pirelli tires. The vehicle also includes a billet grille, hood scoop, tinted taillights, angel eyes headlights and a Borla exhaust.
In addition, the interior is a complete suede and leather design with a custom JL Audio system that includes two 12-inch subwoofers, amps and speakers.
2011 Ford Mustang GT
The 2011 Ford Mustang GT arrives with an all-new advanced 5.0-liter V-8 engine, developed by a passionate cadre of engineers who rallied around the common goal of delivering more than 400 horsepower.
The modern 5.0-liter four-valve Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) V-8 engine in the new Mustang GT will deliver 412 horsepower and 390 ft.-lb. of torque. At the same time, fuel economy is projected to be better than the previous model and unsurpassed in the segment.
The 412 horsepower and 390 ft.-lb. of torque delivered by the 2011 Mustang GT 5.0-liter V-8 represent significant increases versus 2010 model year output levels.
A Brembo brake package upgrade will be available for serious enthusiasts. This package includes 14-inch vented front discs from the GT500 Mustang, unique 19-inch alloy wheels and summer performance tires.
Quotes
“I don’t care where you grew up, everyone knows the Mustang. At some point, you’ve had a conversation about a Mustang – and it was probably one about you wanting to get behind the wheel of one. I’ve always loved the Mustang; the vehicle has power to the point where you can’t help but want to hit the pedal. And the newest one? More power, hotter style.”
– Nelly
“I’m itching to get behind the wheel of my Mustang and really take it out on the streets. This vehicle being a part of my album artwork is just a reflection of the direction and feel that the album has. To be able to partner with Ford again on another vehicle that is going to change the automotive game is exciting.”
– Nelly
“Nelly is a true car guy, there’s no denying that. When Nelly expressed interest in wanting to partner with Ford on the all-new 2011 Ford Mustang GT, we knew it was a perfect fit. The Mustang has such appeal within the urban market. Since it was launched, the vehicle has made appearances in several of the most popular urban films. This was just a great opportunity for Ford, and we’re excited that the Mustang GT is going to be a part of one of the most anticipated albums of 2010.”
– Crystal Worthem, Ford’s Multicultural Marketing Communications Manager
Ford’s innovative new MyFord Touch driver connect technology has received a Popular Mechanics’ Editor’s Choice award for best new product at the 2010 International CES.
The 2010 show marks the third time the magazine’s technology editors have selected a Ford breakthrough for the award, granted annually to products the magazine feels “will make a difference this year.
About MyFord Touch
MyFord Touch retains the traditional car interior layout that has existed for decades – instrument cluster in front of the driver, center stack dividing the dashboard – and adds even more voice control plus full-color LCD screens for much of the visual information presentation.
The information presented is customizable by the driver using a combination of voice controls, touch-screen technology and five-way cell phone-style buttons mounted on the steering wheel.
MyFord Touch displays information using two 4.2-inch full-color LCD screens flanking an analog speedometer and an 8-inch touch-screen LCD at the top of the center stack. A five-way switch on each side of the steering wheel crossbar – similar to the one found on most mobile phones and MP3 players – controls the information displayed on the corresponding instrument panel screens.
A history of award-winning technology
Ford previously won the Popular Mechanics’ Editor’s Choice Award in 2007 for its SYNC technology, developed with Microsoft, which allows customers to seamlessly operate almost any mobile phone or digital media player in their vehicles using voice commands and steering wheel-mounted controls. The technology also received a “People’s Voice Award” that year.
In 2009, SYNC received the Bluetooth Special Interest Group’s “Best of CES” award. The SYNC Traffic, Directions & Information application, the industry’s first system to seamlessly integrate a variety of technologies to provide emergency, diagnostic and information services as well as traffic reports and directions on the road, also received the 2009 Popular Mechanics’ Editor’s Choice Award.
Quotes
“Ford innovations are a direct response to consumer trends. Technologies such as SYNC and MyFord Touch feed the demand for information in an integrated, elegant user interface. For both the auto industry and the consumer electronics industry, the best bet is to develop products that are versatile and loaded with features that make them easy to personalize.”
– Alan Mulally, Ford President and CEO, during his CES keynote presentation
“Our vision for MyFord driver connect technology is that customers can connect to friends and family, to their favorite entertainment devices, and to all of the data stored in the ‘cloud’ using voice commands, touch controls and colorful LCD graphics. They can chat with their kids, listen to their RSS feeds, scan their iPods and make dinner reservations all while driving home from work, and all while keeping their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Ford Global Product Development Chief.
CNET editors awarded Ford Motor Company a “Best of CES” award for MyFord Touch™, the company’s new driver connect technology, in the car and GPS technology category.
Selected by unbiased expert editors from CNET (www.cnet.com) at the 2010 International CES, winners are recognized as having the hottest products in their respective technology categories for their unmatched innovation and creativity and their ability to excite consumers and help them explore a world gone digital. CNET editors reviewed hundreds of entries, as well as scoured the 2010 CES show floor for products to consider for the prestigious award.
The nine categories include Digital photo and video; Car tech and GPS; Cell phones and smartphones; Computers and hardware; Gaming; Green; Home Theater; MP3 and portable video players; and Televisions. In addition, there were awards given for the Best in Show product and People’s Voice, given by the thousands of online viewers who cast their votes.
About MyFord Touch
MyFord Touch is the all-new driver interface launching later this year on new Ford products. The interface retains the traditional car interior layout that has existed for decades – instrument cluster in front of the driver, center stack dividing the dashboard – and adds even more voice control plus full-color LCD screens for much of the visual information presentation.
The information presented is customizable by the driver using a combination of voice controls, touch-screen technology and five-way cell phone-style buttons mounted on the steering wheel.
MyFord Touch displays information using two 4.2-inch full-color LCD screens flanking an analog speedometer and an 8-inch touch-screen LCD at the top of the center stack. A five-way switch on each side of the steering wheel crossbar – similar to the one found on most mobile phones and MP3 players – controls the information displayed on the corresponding instrument panel screens.
Quotes
“At Ford, technology innovation is driven by what consumers want, enhancing the driving experience and adding real value. We’re proud to have MyFord Touch recognized by CNET, as it positions Ford amongst the leaders in consumer electronics innovation.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Ford Group Vice President, Global Product Development
“Each year, CNET editors spend hundreds of hours on the show floor to find the hottest technologies that will drive industry trends for the coming year and beyond. Ford was chosen from thousands of products at the show and demonstrates the innovation to be honored with one of our ‘Best of CES’ award.”
– Scott Ard, Editor in Chief of CNET
“Our vision for MyFord driver connect technology is that customers can connect to friends and family, to their favorite entertainment devices, and to all of the data stored in the ‘cloud’ using voice commands, touch controls and colorful LCD graphics. They can chat with their kids, listen to their RSS feeds, scan their iPods and make dinner reservations all while driving home from work – all while keeping their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Ford Group Vice President for Global Product Development
Plenty of people talk the talk about transforming the auto industry and personal transportation as we know it, but few walk the walk. On of the few is Ford Motor Company, which announced Monday that it will invest an additional $450 million in its aggressive electric vehicle plan, paving the way to build a next-generation hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicle in Michigan beginning in 2012 and creating 1,000 new jobs.
This comes in addition to Ford’s already announced plans to invest $550 million to transform Michigan Assembly Plant from a large SUV factory to a modern car plant to build the all-new Focus starting in 2010 and Focus Electric pure battery electric vehicle in 2011. With today’s news, Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Mich., will be the production site of hybrid, plug-in hybrid and full battery electric vehicles, all of which will be built off the company’s new global C-car platform.
In addition to building the Ford Focus Electric and next-generation hybrid and plug-in hybrid at Michigan Assembly Plant, Ford said it is bringing battery system design and development in-house.
Ford will design advanced lithium-ion battery systems in-house for the next-generation hybrid in Michigan and move production of the battery packs from Mexico to Michigan. The production site will be announced at a later date.
In addition, Ford has announced it will produce hybrid transaxles at its Van Dyke Transmission facility in Sterling Heights, Mich., beginning in 2012.
Partnering with the state of Michigan has been critical to the acceleration of the electric vehicle plan, Ford said. Today, the Michigan Economic Growth Authority board approved a package of incentives and tax credits totaling $188 million. The package includes job credits, brownfield site credits and battery pack assembly credits recently approved by the Michigan legislature.
Quotes
“This investment underscores how serious we are about delivering a range of electrified vehicles to customers – including hybrids, plug-in hybrids and pure electric vehicles. Our industry is at the intersection of three critical global issues – the economy, energy and the environment. The winning companies will be those that address these issues with vehicles that are also exciting and fun to drive, without compromises.”
– Bill Ford, Ford’s Executive Chairman
“Vehicle electrification is part of our ongoing strategy to diversify Michigan’s economy and make the state a center for green and advanced manufacturing. That is why we have worked so hard to invest in and encourage development of battery and electric vehicle technology and production in the state. We applaud Ford’s leadership and commitment to Michigan and our transportation future.”
– Michigan Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm
“Battery system design and development will be a core competency for Ford in the 21st century. Building in-house expertise and leveraging our global scale is critical to developing electrified vehicles that are affordable, connected and fun to drive.”
– Nancy Gioia, Ford’s Director of Global Electrification
“Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant is quickly becoming a symbol of transformation on many different levels. Not only will the new facility enable Ford to meet increased market demand for small fuel-efficient cars, it also promises to become the hub of Ford’s advanced technology vehicle manufacturing in Michigan that will benefit the company, the UAW, the state and our customers throughout North America.”
– Jim Tetreault, Vice President, North America Manufacturing
Ford Motor Company scored a historic doubleheader Monday, capturing both the North American Car of the Year and North American Truck of the Year awards for the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid and 2010 Ford Transit Connect, respectively, at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). It is only the third time in 17 years that one manufacturer has won both titles.
The North American Car and Truck of the Year awards recognize vehicles based on factors including innovation, design, safety, handling, driver satisfaction and value for the dollar. A jury of 49 automotive journalists in the United States and Canada vote for the vehicles, which must be “all-new” or “substantially changed” from the previous model to qualify for the award.
In the winner’s circle
The Fusion Hybrid edged out finalists including the Buick LaCrosse and Volkswagen Golf/GTI to win the North American Car of the Year award. It is the fourth hybrid vehicle in 17 years to win recognition as North American Car (or Truck) of the Year. It also is the second hybrid win for Ford – the most hybrid wins for any automaker. The Ford Escape Hybrid was named North American Truck of the Year in 2005.
The Transit Connect bested finalists including the Chevrolet Equinox and Subaru Outback to win the North American Truck of the Year award. It is the sixth Ford truck to win the award – the most wins of any automaker in the 17-year history of the awards program. It also is the second year in a row that Ford has captured the title. Last year, top honors went to the 2009 Ford F-150.
Fusion Hybrid a winner out of the gate
The North American Car of the Year award is the latest in an impressive string of awards and accolades for the Fusion Hybrid. Most recently, the vehicle was honored as CAR and DRIVER Magazine’s “10Best” Cars for 2010, one of AUTOMOBILE Magazine’s 2010 All-Stars, and the entire Fusion lineup captured the acclaimed MOTOR TREND Car of the Year® award.
The all-new Fusion Hybrid arrived in dealers in March, complete with a powertrain system that combines the best attributes of the gasoline engine and electric battery-driven motors to deliver the optimal experience for the customer in terms of driving performance and fuel economy. The Fusion Hybrid also offers drivers a way to be more connected to the hybrid driving experience thanks to Ford’s SmartGauge™ with EcoGuide, a unique instrument cluster execution that helps coach them on how to optimize the performance of their hybrid.
Transit Connect fills unmet needs of small businesses and fleets
The Transit Connect was brought to the U.S. to fulfill the unmet needs of small business owners and entrepreneurs, offering them a new vehicle choice with significantly improved fuel economy, generous and accessible cargo space, and the agility and maneuverability to operate in crowded urban areas.
Powered by a 2.0-liter I-4 engine with a four-speed automatic overdrive transmission, the Transit Connect offers double the fuel economy of full-size vans, delivering an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.
The Transit Connect also has more than double the cargo-carrying capacity of the Chevrolet HHR Panel, making it suitable for a broader range of commercial-use applications. And it offers commercial users a cargo payload of up to 1,600 pounds – a larger payload than the full-size Dodge Ram 1500 standard-cab short-box pickup truck.
The Transit Connect also is available with the industry-exclusive Ford Work Solutions™, a suite of affordable technologies that provides customers with connectivity, flexibility, visibility and security to better run key aspects of their business.
Learn more about the winners: Fusion Hybrid and Transit Connect.
Quote
“Winning both of these prestigious awards is confirmation that the ONE Ford plan is working, delivering industry-leading products for our customers.”
– Mark Fields, Ford President of The Americas.
The 2011 Lincoln MKX, with industry-first MyLincoln Touch™ driver connect technology, is a high-tech showcase. That is true of the luxury crossover’s powertrain as well.
Its new 3.7-liter Duratec V-6 employs advanced technology and clever control strategies to increase horsepower and torque to best-in-class levels while achieving unsurpassed fuel economy.
2011 Lincoln MKX customers will enjoy a luxury crossover that delivers best-in-class power and torque versus all V-6 competitors with unsurpassed highway fuel economy of 25 mpg – all on regular fuel. Horsepower has been increased to 305 – a 15 percent increase compared with the outgoing product – while torque is up to 280 ft.-lb., marking a 12 percent improvement.
The 3.7-liter V-6 is mated to a six-speed SelectShift Automatic™ transmission, which gives customers the option of a fun-to-shift manual experience.
In SelectShift mode, the transmission doesn’t second-guess the driver, offering total control over gear selection and performance feel. Upshifts, for instance, are not commanded at redline, and downshifts are allowed at the lowest gear possible as defined by the engine speed.
When a lower gear is selected while descending a long downhill grade, the 2011 Lincoln MKX in SelectShift mode will hold that gear until the driver manually upshifts or returns to the fully automatic setting. To ensure safe shifting, the transmission will downshift to the lowest acceptable gear, based on a calculated maximum speed. That means if a vehicle were traveling at highway speeds, the driver could not downshift to first gear in SelectShift mode.
Improvements to engine hardware as well as the powertrain control strategies account for the gains in power and fuel economy. These improvements include:
Quotes
“Fuel economy continues to be at the top of customers’ minds. But customers refuse to compromise on power. With the 2011 Lincoln MKX, they won’t have to. We’re delivering increased power and torque with unsurpassed fuel economy.”
– Greg Johnson, Lincoln Powertrain Manager
“When the system is in manual mode, engine speed matching provides faster and smoother downshifts, and the customer gets the gear they request within the limits of the rev limiter.”
– Greg Johnson, Lincoln Powertrain Manager
“The key to the performance gains and fuel economy with the 2011 Lincoln MKX is that we don’t look at power and fuel economy as being mutually exclusive. Instead, we focus on optimizing every component, every system and every control in the powertrain for greater efficiency overall, which enables increased power, better performance and response and helps to maintain the fuel economy found in smaller-displacement engines.”
– Mazen Hammoud, Lincoln Powertrain Calibrations Manager
They say that times are tough all over, but you won’t feel that way when you get inside the 2011 Lincoln MKX. New, industry-exclusive technologies and engaging design featuring world-class craftsmanship and materials further elevate the midsize luxury crossover.
Leading the wide-ranging innovations is the all-new MyLincoln Touch driver connect technology, which delivers a smarter, safer, simpler way to connect drivers with in-car technologies and their digital lives. MyLincoln comes standard on the 2011 Lincoln MKX, providing drivers a whole new experience behind the wheel.
The dramatic freshening of the 2011 Lincoln MKX extends to all areas of the vehicle: new features and technologies not available anywhere else, new exterior design, new interior design with increased use of genuine materials, new powertrain with unsurpassed fuel economy, improved driving dynamics and new tires and wheels all combine to deliver an unparalleled luxury experience.
Introducing… MyLincoln
The industry-first MyLincoln Touch experience, powered by Lincoln SYNC®, replaces traditional vehicle buttons, knobs and gauges with clear, crisp LCD screens and five-way buttons like those found on cell phones and MP3 players. The screens can be personalized to display information relevant to each individual driver using a simple button click, voice command or touch screen tap.
The electronic finish panel on the 2011 Lincoln MKX demonstrates all the advantages of this touch-sensitive technology in a beautiful, engaging package. Activated features display amber light. When turned off, signature Lincoln White lighting is displayed.
In addition to the usual audio and climate control features, the touch-sensitive technology also operates the volume and fan controls, which is exclusive to Lincoln.
Customers can swipe their fingers along the slider to adjust the volume. The slider features 10 distinct touchpoints; three full swipes bring the system to maximum volume. Customers also can touch anywhere along the slider to get a corresponding increase or decrease in volume.
The fan control is operated in a similar fashion. On both the volume control and the fan control, the distinctive Lincoln White lighting acts as a chaser.
Brimming with technologies and craftsmanship
Standard MyLincoln Touch and remote start lead the list of features or technologies on the 2011 Lincoln MKX, including: MyLincoln Touch, Lincoln SYNC, Easy Fuel, SecuriCode™ keyless entry, Blind Spot Mirrors, MyKey, Cross Traffic Alert and AdvanceTrac® with RSC (Roll Stability Control™).
The interior of the 2011 Lincoln MKX reflects an even greater emphasis on what defines Lincoln DNA: luxury, craftsmanship, genuine materials and sharper execution.
Gentle details that bring out Lincoln standards of quality and excellence include brightwork on the vents, genuine stitching on the doors and softer armrests with upgraded materials. The cupholders, with available ambient lighting, are found beneath the independent sliding leather-covered console lids, which feature decorative stitching. A power tilt/telescoping steering column and a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel are available.
All-new leather-trimmed seats, comfort sections and standard tuxedo stripe embrace the new Lincoln DNA sew style. More genuine aluminum appliqués are standard, with aluminum accents on the door added to the spears on the instrument panel.
The two available wood accents – Olive Ash and Walnut Swirl – on the steering wheel, dashboard and doors add character and form; each selection has a livelier, natural appearance, adding even more character to the interior. Whether customers select aluminum or wood, the increased use of genuine materials in the 2011 Lincoln MKX ensures that each interior will be distinctive.
Quotes
“With its combination of style, performance and uncompromising luxury, the Lincoln MKX has brought new customers into the Lincoln showroom in a way that very few products have before. Lincoln customers tell us they care most about style and technology, and the new Lincoln MKX meets these needs perfectly. The new MyLincoln Touch technology will change the way customers interact with their vehicles while its new design language gives the vehicle a distinctive and stylish silhouette we know customers will love.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Group Vice President, Global Product Development
“The 2011 Lincoln MKX represents no-compromise luxury. Every attribute – technology, ergonomics, material selection, power, fuel economy, driving experience – is a standout. Plus, it’s wrapped in a beautiful package. Everything about the 2011 Lincoln MKX is vibrant and luxurious. Our MyLincoln Touch system will draw people in, helping them discover that the new Lincoln MKX delivers a total driving experience not found anywhere else.”
– Elaine Bannon, Chief Engineer of the 2011 Lincoln MKX
Based upon the new MyFord Touch driver connect technology announced at the 2010 International CES, MyLincoln Touch is designed to be a powerful yet intuitive interior design for drivers, blending strengths of the most proven interfaces in consumer electronics – including MP3 players and mobile phones – with a new generation of Lincoln’s award-winning SYNC® system.
MyLincoln Touch redesigns the in-car interface, mirroring how consumers interact with most devices in their lives: touch-sensitive controls, touch screens, thumb-wheel controls and voice recognition.
In that respect, MyLincoln is instantly familiar. Using reconfigurable displays and simplified voice commands, though, MyLincoln also can present multiple layers of information, just as the driver wants it.
MyLincoln Touch layout
MyLincoln Touch retains the traditional car interior layout that has existed for decades – instrument cluster in front of the driver, center stack dividing the dashboard – and adds even more voice control plus full-color LCD screens for much of the visual information presentation. The information presented is customizable by the driver using a combination of voice controls, touch-screen technology and five-way cell phone-style buttons mounted on the steering wheel.
MyLincoln Touch displays information using two 4.2-inch full-color LCD screens flanking an analog speedometer and an 8-inch touch-screen LCD at the top of the center stack. A five-way switch on each side of the steering wheel crossbar controls the information displayed on the corresponding instrument panel screens.
The left display, which is controlled by the left five-way controller, features information and settings for the vehicle: fuel economy, mechanical status, safety features.
The right display, controlled by the right five-way controller, contains infotainment information: audio settings, climate control, phone communications and navigation menus.
Those same right-hand functions also appear in the vehicle’s center stack, now augmented with capacitive switches and touch-screen technology, which subtly replaces most traditional knobs and switches.
Lincoln center stack applications will take touch-sensitive technology to the next level with fingertip “slider” controls for audio volume and fan speed. Occupants will slide a finger along the touch-sensitive slider bar to adjust settings as an LED chaser gives a visual representation of volume or fan speed.
Touch-screen display
The 8-inch touch-screen center stack display is the key interface on MyLincoln Touch. Designers employed a four-corner solution for its layout, representing the four activities most important to customers: phone, navigation, climate and audio/entertainment functions.
Regardless of what menus customers are viewing, a single touch on the appropriate corner will always bring up the desired functionality, and in most cases, a voice command also can be used to adjust the controls.
With the four-corner layout, functions are where they’re expected to be, and they’re always visible on the screen, so it’s clear and easy for users to understand where they are in the system.
Color is also used to give drivers intuitive visual cues between the central 8-inch MyLincoln Touch display and the instrument-panel-mounted 4.2-inch display. Phone and communications functions always are presented with an orange background, navigation with a green background, climate control with a blue background and audio/entertainment functions with a red background.
SYNC – behind the scenes
Behind the displays of MyLincoln Touch driver connect technology, the next generation of the company’s award-winning SYNC system runs the show, built using the latest Microsoft Auto operating system.
No longer just a “black box” add-on providing voice-activated control for mobile devices, SYNC has become a fully integrated operating system for Lincoln vehicles – a technology that will become the global interior architecture for all future Lincoln products.
Quotes
“MyFord Touch, combined with new SYNC functionality, creates an experience that will cause people to fall in love with their vehicles again. It’s not just a technology; it’s an experience – one we hope will have people across the globe looking forward to spending time behind the wheel of their vehicle.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Ford Group Vice President, Global Product Development
“MyLincoln really is about managing information. Driving is the priority when you’re behind the wheel, so we’ve made it possible to simplify the content management so customers can drive with minimal distraction. In the end, what MyLincoln displays is really up to the driver.”
– Jason Johnson, User Interface Design Engineer
“The steering wheel has all the necessary functions available in a very compact area, right where your hand falls as you grab the wheel. The five-way buttons will feel familiar to anyone who has used a mobile phone or MP3 player. Drivers aren’t forced to use a quirky or unfamiliar interface like a joystick or rotary knob.”
– Jason Johnson, User Interface Design Engineer
The synergies between automotive and digital technologies have never been better integrated than they are in the next-generation Ford Focus. The global C-car debuts with the Ford’s new technology that changes the way people interact with their car’s vehicle information, entertainment features and even Bluetooth-enabled devices.
MyFord retains the traditional automotive interior layout – instrument cluster in front of the driver, center stack dividing the dashboard – and adds LCD screens to provide much of the visual information.
Drivers decide what – and how much – information is presented by using a combination of voice controls and five-way cell phone-style buttons mounted on the steering wheel. It’s easy to use, thanks to its layout and design. Plus, it’s tremendously scalable given all the functions available through the LCD screens and the power of SYNC®, the operating system behind MyFord.
Interacting with MyFord
MyFord divides information in a familiar fashion: left-hand and right-hand. A five-way switch, similar to the one found on most mobile phones and MP3 players, exists on each side of the steering wheel crossbar to control the information.
On basic MyFord trim levels, display duties are handled by two 4.2-inch full-color LCD screens, one in the center of the instrument panel and another atop the center stack. Higher-specification versions use a 4.2-inch LCD in the center of the instrument panel and an 8-inch touch-screen display in the center stack.
The instrument panel display, controlled by the left-side five-way controller, contains information about the vehicle: fuel economy, mechanical status, safety features and other information typically found in the vehicle message center. The center stack display, controlled by the five-way controller on the right side, contains information relating to the vehicle occupants: entertainment system settings, climate control information and communications functions.
On MyFord models, a traditional telephone-style keypad and key command buttons surround the center stack display to provide quick access to commonly used features. Focus models with a touch-screen use a combination of on-screen buttons and the right-hand five-way controller to manage information.
How MyFord driver connect technology accommodates all types of drivers
To ensure the MyFord system is an instant hit with Focus buyers, designers prioritized four key attributes of the interface design:
Attentive: MyFord uses controls, screens and other interfaces with which most users are already comfortable and familiar through popular consumer electronics devices.
Approachable: MyFord is attractive, using rich graphics, vibrant colors, high-definition screens and easy-to-use buttons that are appealing to the eye and the touch.
Clear: Rather than an imposing cluster of buttons, switches and dials, MyFord is clean-looking with controls that fall readily to hand and displays that are exactly where users expect to find them. Most major functions can be controlled through voice commands without the driver’s hands ever leaving the steering wheel.
Connected: For technophiles, MyFord can be configured to display the information they want in the way they want it. For technophobes, radio, heating and air-conditioning controls are still accessible via familiar stack-mounted controls, so there’s no need to learn a host of new commands to operate the vehicle.
Why design a new interface?
In recent years, the variety of in-car communications, navigation, audio and entertainment technologies that consumers demand has outgrown the traditional “button and knob” interface. Consumers have been suffering “button fatigue,” even as they’re demanding more in-car connectivity, more options and more information, which is likely to grow still further.
For example, consumers still were required to interrupt much of their communications, information flow and music when entering the vehicle. Once inside, the focus often was on song selection, making a phone call or setting up the navigation system rather than on driving.
The original SYNC system helped provide a seamless flow of information and entertainment to drivers. It now has even more capability available, and MyFord will help manage the immense functionality available to drivers. MyFord is the next major Ford technology geared toward helping drivers complete their tasks while keeping the focus on safe, attentive driving.
Quotes
“This isn’t a new dashboard or a new instrument cluster or an interior redesign. MyFord rethinks how information is presented to drivers and how drivers are able to personalize the way they relate to the information or entertainment the car makes available to them. It’s a groundbreaking, intuitive interface that puts tremendous power at the hands of Focus owners.” – Derrick Kuzak, Group Vice President, Global Product Development
“With MyFord, we’re not asking drivers to relearn how to turn up the heat or change the radio volume. Those basic controls are exactly where you expect them. For those inclined to dive deeper and make their in-vehicle experience truly their own, though, there’s much more information and more control available with a few clicks of a steering wheel button.” – John Schneider, Chief Engineer, Ford Connected Services Solutions Organization
“The steering wheel has all the necessary functions available in a very compact area, right where your hand falls as you grab the wheel. And the five-way buttons will feel familiar to anyone who has used a mobile phone or MP3 player. Drivers aren’t forced to use an unfamiliar interface like a joystick or rotary knob.” – Gary Braddock, Ford Group Chief Designer
“Everything has been designed around usability. Our goal was to provide the means – multiple means, in many cases – for drivers to accomplish what they want to do. More importantly, we had to keep the focus on driving and not confuse drivers with a huge collection of buttons. MyFord was designed to work with the driver, not force the driver to work with it.”
– Tom Cullen, Project Manager for MyFord
“When we started work on MyFord, we saw this huge groundswell of new functionality and capability hitting consumers and expanding right before our eyes. We knew that unless we devised an intuitive interface for these capabilities, they would detract – and possibly distract – from the driving experience.”
– Gary Braddock, Ford Group Chief Designer
Everyone knows that smaller cars mean better fuel economy, but there’s more to the story than mere size.
The reveal of the next-generation Ford Focus at the 2010 North American International Auto Show includes the first in a series of powertrain technology developments coming from Ford that give its new global C-segment leader a combination of power, exhilarating performance and unsurpassed fuel economy.
Ford has disclosed that North American models of the new Focus will be equipped with a responsive, fuel-efficient combination of a 2.0-liter I-4 engine with Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) and direct injection (DI) plus a dual-clutch PowerShift transmission.
The new engine is designed to deliver an estimated 155 horsepower and 145 ft.-lb. of torque to give customers ample performance and a refined driving experience.
The 2.0-liter Ti-VCT I-4 also serves as another example of Ford delivering fuel economy leadership by using advanced technologies to produce surprising power from minimal displacement. The engine can deliver outstanding fuel economy and emissions along with the throttle response, performance and flexibility expected from a world-class engine.
Core engine technologies
As a DOHC design, the 2.0-liter I-4 uses two camshafts: one to open the intake valves and one to open the exhaust valves. Traditionally, camshafts have only been able to open the valves at a fixed point, defined during engine design and manufacture. But with modern variable cam timing systems, the camshafts can be rotated slightly relative to their initial position, allowing the cam timing to be advanced or retarded.
Ti-VCT takes this technology and applies it to both the intake and exhaust camshafts of its DOHC design, using electronic solenoid valves to direct high-pressure oil to control vanes in each of the camshaft sprocket housings. By using one oil control solenoid per camshaft, controlled by the Electronic Control Module, each intake and exhaust cam can be advanced or retarded independently of the other as engine operating conditions change, providing an exceptional degree of valve timing control.
Attention to detail yields fuel economy improvements
Complementing the efficiencies introduced by Ti-VCT and DI, every aspect of the proven 2.0-liter I-4 was examined to identify ways fuel economy could be improved. Key strategies focused on reducing internal engine friction and reducing overall weight.
Computer modeling indicated areas where friction reduction strategies would pay the most dividends. The valvetrain received a fine surface treatment to present the smoothest surface possible. Piston skirts are treated with a special low-friction coating, and the oil pump and its drive ratio are sized for the exact capacity requirements of the new 2.0-liter engine.
PowerShift: A different kind of automatic
An all-new PowerShift six-speed automatic transmission that combines the responsive performance and fuel economy of a manual gearbox with the convenience of a traditional automatic transmission promises to be another key Focus powertrain technology.
Twin internal clutches keep the PowerShift in constant mesh, continuously optimizing for maximum responsiveness and fuel efficiency, depending on engine speed, vehicle speed and input from the driver’s foot on the accelerator pedal. The new technology provides significant fuel economy improvement, and for the driver, it retains the operational ease of an automatic with noticeably quicker and smoother shift quality.
PowerShift is a dual dry clutch transmission, operating with sealed internal lubrication, reducing friction and contributing to Focus fuel economy improvements. The lack of pumps and hoses reduces complexity, saves weight and contributes to fuel efficiency.
Quotes
“Combining a direct-injected engine and the dual-clutch PowerShift transmission will help Focus redefine fuel economy and flexibility in the C-car segment. The refinement and sheer fun-to-drive nature of the new Focus will surprise a lot of drivers.”
– Barb Samardzich, Vice President for Ford’s Global Powertrain Development
“Using direct injection and Ti-VCT, and coupling that to a dual-clutch transmission, we’ve been able to make a quantum leap in fuel economy and performance. We’re meeting the goals of our global powertrain strategy, and we now have another key powertrain for use around the world.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Group Vice President, Global Product Development
“The overlap control via Ti-VCT helps us eliminate compromises in the induction and exhaust systems. Drivers will notice improved low-end power and better fuel economy. And there are benefits they won’t notice too, like reduced emissions overall, especially at part-throttle.”
– Jamie Hanshaw, Ford VCT Technical Specialist
“The DI system creates an incredibly fine spray of gasoline that’s injected directly into the combustion chamber at the precise moment it’s needed, eliminating a lot of the compromises on traditional fuel systems. It sounds simple, but months of testing and computer simulation went into finding the exact injector spray pattern, where in the cylinder to aim the spray, and even the piston dome design.”
– Scott Makowski, I-4 Engine Manager
“PowerShift is a transmission that changes the game. Our fuel economy leader is now a PowerShift automatic. Previously, a C-segment driver needed a manual transmission and a clutch pedal to enjoy the greatest fuel efficiency.”
– Barb Samardzich, Vice President for Ford’s Global Powertrain Development
“When the new Focus launches in late 2010, it will be among the global leaders in fuel economy and CO2 emissions. We will continue to pioneer new technologies beyond launch, including a true zero-emission model launching in North America in 2011. Throughout its life cycle, Focus in all forms, in all regions, will demonstrate the Ford commitment to deliver unsurpassed fuel economy on a truly global scale.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Group Vice President, Global Product Development
People are a-buzz about Ford Motor Company’s revitalized commitment to automotive excellence, and no car better represents its laser-like… Focus.
The next-generation Ford Focus makes its worldwide debut providing customers with more affordable technologies and features than ever in this segment, as well as detailed craftsmanship, outstanding fuel economy and a new standard for driving quality.
Sleek, stylish and sporty, both the four-door sedan and five-door hatchback body styles of the next-generation Focus are previewed prior to their production start for Europe and North America late in 2010 and market launch early in 2011.
The new Focus will be nearly identical in all markets, with 80 percent parts commonality around the world.
Engineered without compromise
The new Ford Focus has been developed by a global team, led from Ford’s European small and medium vehicle center of excellence in Merkenich, near Cologne, Germany, with powertrain development led by a similar team at Ford’s technical center in Dunton, England. The vehicle has been engineered without compromise to meet all customer and legislative requirements of the major worldwide markets.
In developing the vehicle for global markets, the product team in Europe was able to call on the experience acquired from recent programs like the much-acclaimed new Ford Fiesta, and was supported by the expertise of vehicle and powertrain technology specialists located in Ford’s engineering center in Dearborn, Mich.
Ford’s global development and sourcing strategy made it possible to provide a level of performance and feature content that is unrivaled for this vehicle segment and surprising even to drivers of larger, more premium vehicles.
Taking kinetic design to the next level
The no-compromise approach to the new Ford Focus is immediately evident from the striking exterior design of the four-door sedan and five-door hatchback models that take center stage at the 2010 NAIAS.
The two models share a sporty and dynamic character, marking the next evolution of Ford’s acclaimed kinetic design form language, which has contributed to the growing popularity of the company’s latest small and medium cars.
The kinetic design approach uses bold vehicle designs to capture the feeling of energy in motion, so that cars look like they are moving – even when they are standing still.
With its striking front end, sleek profile, dramatic rising beltline and athletic stance, the new Focus clearly telegraphs the rewarding driving experience that awaits customers when they take to the road.
This dynamic quality is reinforced by the distinctive design of the interior. The new Focus has an extremely modern, cockpit-style interior, with the stylish center console wrapped around the driver and providing outstanding access to the vehicle’s major controls and display panels.
A key element of the interior is the quality of craftsmanship. The cabin’s bold and contemporary graphics, the sculptured shape of the soft-touch instrument panel and the choice of superior trim materials all help to give occupants the feeling that they are traveling in a premium-class car.
Intuitive technology enhances convenience and safety
The next-generation Focus will bring C-segment customers around the world an exciting array of advanced technologies generally found in larger, more premium vehicles. The global scale of Ford’s C-car program makes more technologies and features economically viable than ever before for cars in this segment.
The technology package of the new Focus promises not only clear leadership in the C-segment, but also includes features customers in larger, more premium segments would find surprising.
Within the cockpit, the most significant innovation is the company’s next-generation driver connect technology, MyFord, which provides the driver with a state-of-the-art combination of controls and display screens to operate the key vehicle features. On high series vehicles, the MyFord system includes an 8-inch touch screen, allowing the driver to control a wide range of functions via a clear and intuitive color display.
MyFord is complemented by a new generation of Ford’s powerful SYNC® connectivity package, which includes a sophisticated voice control system, Bluetooth and satellite navigation, along with connection points for a wide variety of external devices and media players.
Quotes
“The new Ford Focus is a clear demonstration that our ONE Ford strategy is providing global consumers with great products that harness the best of Ford Motor Company. The efficiencies generated by our new global C-car platform will enable us to provide Ford Focus customers with an affordable product offering quality, fuel efficiency, safety and technology beyond their expectations.”
– Alan Mulally, Ford’s President and CEO
“Global customers increasingly want smaller cars with outstanding fuel economy, but without sacrificing any of the style, technology, connectivity and driving quality they demand from larger vehicles. Our next generation of C-cars – led by the exciting new Focus – will clearly show that Ford is ready to meet that challenge.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s Group Vice President of Global Product Development
“The all-new Focus is at the center of convergence for automotive trends. We’ve designed it with an acute understanding of global customers, yet it’s tailored for each individual region. Focus combines the best from Europe, North America and Asia to deliver a level of emotional driving enjoyment never before experienced in a car this size.”
– J Mays, Ford Group Vice President of Design and Chief Creative Officer
“We believe the new Ford Focus will provide consumers with an unmatched driving experience, together with an unrivaled ownership experience. The Focus brand always has been very special to Ford, and this new global model shows our commitment to developing another generation of exciting and appealing cars.”
– Jim Farley, Ford Group Vice President, Global Marketing
You thought it was just crazy talk when you heard the rumors, but lo and behold it’s a reality. Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) will allow drivers of the 2011 Mustang GT to balance high performance and fuel economy. What a concept!
Ti-VCT provides extremely precise variable – yet independent – control of timing for intake and exhaust valves. Drivers of the 2011 Mustang GT will notice abundant torque and class-leading fuel economy. An additional benefit of Ti-VCT is a reduction of emissions, especially in situations when the throttle is partially open.
Independent adjustment of intake and exhaust valve timing allows maximum fuel economy at part-throttle, while delivering optimized power in full-throttle situations. An added benefit is improved drivability and responsiveness across the torque curve.
How Ti-VCT works
The new 5.0-liter V-8 in the 2011 Mustang GT is a double-overhead-camshaft configuration that employs two camshafts per cylinder bank – one camshaft to operate the intake valves and one camshaft to operate the exhaust valves. Ti-VCT rotates the camshafts to advance or retard the cam timing, based on several measures including throttle opening.
An element unique to the Mustang GT 5.0-liter V-8 application is that Ti-VCT is actuated by camshaft torque, with assistance from pressurized oil. Using camshaft torque energy provides faster throttle response and maximizes use of existing energy, to aid fuel economy. Camshaft torque energy Ti-VCT actuation is a Ford innovation, introduced first on the 3.0-liter V-6.
Working like a ratchet, the one-way valves allow precise timing of camshaft events, continually optimizing timing to provide maximum thrust or fuel economy, based on driver input.
Quotes
“Ti-VCT is a win-win-win technology. It helps our new range of engines to deliver high performance with unsurpassed projected highway fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon and reduced emissions.”
– Barb Samardzich, Vice President, Global Powertrain Development
“Ti-VCT technology will continue to proliferate across the Ford powertrain portfolio. By 2013, you can expect to see this advancement available on 90 percent of our nameplates.”
– Barb Samardzich, Vice President, Global Powertrain Development
Forty years after its namesake became a road racing legend, the BOSS is back on track for 2010 with a new 5.0-liter V-8 engine.
In honor of the 40th anniversary of Parnelli Jones’ 1970 Trans-Am championship in a Mustang BOSS 302 prepared by Bud Moore Engineering, Ford Racing is introducing the BOSS 302R, a factory-built race car ready for track days and road racing in a number of Grand-Am, SCCA and NASA classes.
Ready to race
The Mustang BOSS 302R is a serialized off-road-only vehicle ready to race. Each base model will come with a 5.0-liter four-valve engine and a six-speed manual transmission with a roll cage, race seats, safety harness, data acquisition and race dampers/springs, and a Brembo brake and tire package, starting at an MSRP of $79,000.
And, with a special Grand-Am Homologation Package (M-FR500-BOSS R1), it will also be ready to compete in the Grand-Am Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge series (formerly known as KONI Challenge), starting with the season-opening race in Daytona on Jan. 29, 2010. As of today, five BOSS 302R race cars will be delivered to customers ready to race in Daytona. MSRP of the BOSS 302R1 is $129,000.
The Grand-Am Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge-ready Mustang BOSS 302R will feature a sealed high-output race engine with an upgraded cooling system, a close-ratio six-speed transmission with integral shifter, a seam-welded body, race suspension/KONI dampers and ABS brake tuning, race performance exhaust and a high-speed balance one-piece driveshaft.
A winning track record
The BOSS 302R follows in the very successful footsteps of its most recent road racing predecessor – the Mustang FR500C from Ford Racing. In 2005, when the Mustang FR500C debuted at Daytona, the first car was delivered on Wednesday of that week and won the KONI Challenge race on Friday.
In five years of competition since then, the Mustang FR500C has won three Triple Crown championships of driver, team and manufacturer’s titles in KONI competition including back-to-back (2008 and 2009). The FR500C has also seen success in FIA GT4 competition winning the 2007 and 2008 driver’s championships.
Each Ford Racing factory-built production-based turnkey race car has won its competition debut.
Available through Ford dealers, a total of 50 BOSS 302R Mustangs will be built by Ford Racing. Delivery is anticipated in the third quarter of 2010.
For more information on Ford Racing Performance Parts, please visit www.fordracingparts.com.
Quotes
“To keep pace with consumer demand, the Ford team has built modern versions of the most iconic performance Mustangs over the years. From Shelbys to Bullitt, Mach and Cobra Jet, it is now time for BOSS to join the list of America’s most coveted Mustangs. The original BOSS 302 was a championship-winning legend and the new Mustang BOSS 302R will carry on the tradition. The Mustang was born to race from the start, and this new Mustang is bred to win.”
– Jamie Allison, Director, Ford North America Motorsports
“We expect the BOSS 302R to continue the successful tradition of winning with factory-built production-based race cars from Ford Racing. The FR500C and FR500S road racing Mustangs, and the Mustang FR500CJ (Cobra Jet) for drag racing have proven to be great cars for our customers, helping teams win races and championships. We believe that the BOSS 302R will provide that same sort of competitive product for our customers with the tradition you can only get from Ford Racing.”
– Jamie Allison, Director, Ford North America Motorsports
“Racing has long served as a technical proving ground for production engines. What’s good enough for the streets is now good enough for the racetrack. The 5.0-liter block and architecture in the Mustang BOSS 302R is the same as the 2011 Mustang GT.”
– Jamie Allison, Director, Ford North America Motorsports
“We have a great team on the BOSS 302R project. Between our partners at AutoAlliance International, where the Mustang is built, Team Mustang, Multimatic and the entire Ford Racing team, we have once again proven to be a leader in turnkey production-based race cars.”
– Andy Slankard, Ford Racing Engineering Supervisor and the Lead Engineer on the BOSS 302R project
In 2009 Ford executives were highly visible in social media. From Twitter Q&As to open discussions on Ford’s Facebook Wall to blogger meet ups to guest blog posts. In 2010 Ford is dedicated to continuing to engage with online influencers, and Ford fans using social media channels.
On January 11, global Ford executives from Alan Mulally on down will kick off Ford’s 2010 online activities at the North American International Auto Show with a full day of social media activity. We’ll even conduct a live chat with Jim Farley, Ford Chief Marketing Officer, and Brian Solis and Marketing Profs right here (scroll to the bottom to participate in the chat).
Check out the day’s agenda to get involved in the conversation!
On Monday, January 11 get up-close and personal with Ford executives online!
America’s most innovative sedan, the hot-selling 2010 Ford Taurus, is the winner of the first-ever Edmunds.com Technology Breakthrough Award. The announcement was made today at the 2010 International CES (Consumer Electronics Show) in Las Vegas.
The Edmunds.com Technology Breakthrough Award is presented to vehicles that set the standard for intuitive, practical and affordable technology that enhances safety and convenience
for drivers and passengers. Any new vehicle available for sale within the U.S. within the last year is eligible to receive the award.
With its expressive styling, the Taurus offers more user-friendly technology than other cars twice its price, including 10 class-exclusive technologies not available from any other manufacturer.
Other class-exclusive features include:
Easy Fuel® Capless Fuel Filler – a self-seal system without a traditional fuel cap. No lost, dangling or spinning caps. It seals automatically every time.
Sony Audio® System – a surround-sound system that delivers Dolby® Digital
5.1 sound through 12 high-quality Sony speakers.
Available EcoBoost™ V-6 – a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine that delivers the output of a V-8, 365 horsepower, without compromising its V-6 fuel economy.
MyKey™ – a programmable feature that allows parents to limit top speed and audio volume and set speed alert chimes to encourage safer driving.
In addition to receiving the Edmunds.com Technology Breakthrough Award, the Taurus is serving as the official vehicle of CES, and the 2010 Taurus SHO was dubbed Esquire magazine’s first-ever “Car of the Year.” Since going on sale in August 2009, Ford's all-new Taurus has received more than a dozen awards from an array of leading consumer and automotive publications.
Quotes
“We chose the 2010 Ford Taurus to receive the first annual Edmunds.com Breakthrough Technology Award because the vehicle offers an extensive and impressive array of electronic amenities that also represent an excellent value for consumers.”
– Doug Newcomb, Senior Technology Editor, Edmunds.com
“In addition to the innovative Ford SYNC® system that provides voice-activated Bluetooth and iPod connectivity and free features such as 911 Assist™ and turn-by-turn navigation, the Taurus also has heated and cooled Multi-Contour Seats with Active Motion™, Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross Traffic Alert, SIRIUS Travel Link™ and SecuriCode™ Keyless Entry Keypad.”
– Doug Newcomb, Senior Technology Editor, Edmunds.com
Ever wonder how to better integrate your technological needs into your driving experience? Wonder no more.
Ford introduced a smarter, safer, simpler system to connect drivers with in-car technologies and their digital lives today at the 2010 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES).
Building on its leadership with the award-winning SYNC® device connectivity system, Ford has combined a variety of technologies into one powerful, intuitive connected driver experience called MyFord, which will begin rolling out on vehicles this year.
This new in-vehicle connectivity experience replaces many of the traditional vehicle buttons, knobs and gauges. With more voice commands, clear, crisp LCD screens that can be customized and five-way buttons like those on cell phones and MP3 players, drivers can choose which information is front and center through a button click, voice command or touch-screen tap.
Driven by trends
Ford decided to undertake a sweeping and ambitious redesign of the automotive interface after studying consumer electronics trends and the many new ways in which drivers were using technology inside their Ford vehicles.
Recent years have seen a massive expansion in the variety of in-car communications, navigation and infotainment technologies consumers regularly use. The expectations of average drivers have outgrown the traditional “button/knob/gauge” interface used in cars for the past 100 years, as most consumer and household electronics have moved to colorful digital displays and multi-function touch-sensitive buttons.
Consumers are insisting on simpler interfaces even as they’re demanding more in-car connectivity, more options and more information – a dilemma known as “simplexity.” Plus, the pace of advancement is expected to continue unabated, posing a new opportunity for drivers and engineers alike.
For example, prior to SYNC, drivers often were required to either leave behind their communications, digital information and favorite music while on the road or split their attention between driving and selecting songs, making phone calls or using the navigation system.
Influenced – and powered – by SYNC
When launched, Ford SYNC, developed with Microsoft, helped provide a seamless transition – and seamless flow of information and entertainment – from the moment drivers entered their vehicles to the moment they got out. As Ford began to develop additional SYNC capabilities and add other signature content, the company realized it was redefining the interior environment and ownership experience.
Accommodating all types of drivers, all types of vehicles
In the initial planning stages of redesigning the interior experience, Ford collaborated with IDEO, a world leader in helping consumers connect with technology. As a result, the company identified four key attributes of successful interfaces:
Be attentive: Use controls, screens and other interfaces with which most users already are comfortable and familiar.
Be approachable: Create an attractive environment with rich graphics, vibrant colors and buttons/screens that are appealing to the eye and the touch, and consistent with what consumers expect from certain functions.
Be clear: Rather than an imposing cluster of buttons, switches and dials, create a clean-looking interface, with controls that fall readily to hand and displays that are exactly where users expect to find them. Provide maximum control without the driver’s hands ever leaving the steering wheel.
Be connected: For technophiles? Let drivers display all the information they want in the way they want it. For technophobes? Make sure basic controls, like radio and HVAC settings, still are accessible via familiar stack-mounted controls, so users don’t have to learn a host of new commands to operate the vehicle.
A global future for MyFord driver connect technology
As a signature offering, and one with the potential to help reduce driver distraction, Ford knew widely offering MyFord driver connect technology was a priority from the start.
MyFord also will be expanded across world markets. As new and refreshed models continue to arrive, nearly all Ford passenger vehicles will be outfitted with MyFord driver connect technology. There will be minor variations across car lines, but the interface will be instantly recognizable in Ford vehicles around the globe.
MyFord will arrive later this year on the redesigned 2011 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX crossovers, before appearing on the all-new 2012 Ford Focus for global markets. By 2015, approximately 80 percent of Ford’s North American models are expected to have MyFord driver connect technology, with similar percentages predicted for the world market.
Quotes
“MyFord delivers a premium interior experience that will help consumers fall in love with their vehicles again. It integrates all our signature features so customers will know exactly what they’re going to get in any Ford vehicle they may find themselves driving, no matter where they are in the world.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Ford Group Vice President, Global Product Development
“As we began developing MyFord’s capability, we saw this groundswell of new technology, new functionality and incredible capability opening up to consumers. It was readily apparent that unless we devised an intuitive interface to help drivers manage these capabilities, they could detract – and possibly distract – from the driving experience.”
– Mark Fields, Ford’s President of The Americas
“With MyFord driver connect technology, we realized we weren’t necessarily competing with other automakers, but we were really redefining how customers interacted with their cars. We had to look very closely at the evolution of hand-held devices in terms of user interface, connectivity, productivity and entertainment applications. Our goal is to set the benchmark for the automotive user interface, just as we’ve done for device connectivity with SYNC.”
– Jim Buczkowski, Ford Director of Electronics and Electrical Systems Engineering
“The driving experience is not just about getting from A to B. It’s about the approach to the car, how it responds to you when you get in, and how it responds to you while you drive. It’s the anticipation, the welcome and the continuing conversation. Keeping these principles in mind helped us ensure we made decisions for the right reasons.”
– J Mays, Ford Group Vice President of Design
“Democratization of technology is a key aspect of our product plan. With MyFord, we didn’t want to create an upscale electronics package and just put it on our highest-end vehicles. This technology will be available across our full range of vehicles: From our affordable small cars to the ultimate Lincoln, we’re going to make a premium, appealing and intuitive experience available to everyone.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Ford Group Vice President, Global Product Development
“We’ve developed an environment that will make every Ford vehicle feel like a Ford. Across the country, across the globe, all of our products will have the same type of feel, making them instantly comfortable to the drivers who know and love them, and MyFord will become a key part of the joy of owning and driving a Ford product.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Ford Group Vice President, Global Product Development
In sports, teams that three-peat are dubbed “dynasties.” So, what do you call something that repeats its dominance 33 years in a row? That’s easy: an F-Series pickup truck.
For the 33rd year in a row, Ford’s award-winning F-Series is America’s best-selling truck with 2009 sales of 413,625. F-series outsold its nearest truck rival by more than 97,000 units, the largest margin in three years.
In addition, for the 28th consecutive year, F-Series is once again America’s best-selling vehicle of any type – car, crossover, SUV, truck or van.
F-Series sales for 2009 totaled 413,625, which increased its segment share by 4 percentage-points. December sales for F-Series were 48,209, a 16 percent increase over December 2009 and the best sales month since March 2008.
The new benchmark
The F-150 was redesigned inside and out for 2009 and set a new benchmark for full size pickups with new high-strength, lighter-weight chassis that delivers more class-leading towing and hauling capability and unsurpassed fuel economy.
During the past six years, the “core trucker” – those who use their truck’s towing and hauling capability for work and play – has jumped to 40 percent from 30 percent of the light-duty full-size pickup market. In the commercial/fleet portion of this core trucker sub-segment, Ford F-Series continues to dominate. The F-150 has 44 percent of the light duty commercial/fleet market; and Super Duty is stronger still with over 56 percent of heavy duty commercial/fleet market.
Options galore
New to F-Series for 2010 is the F-150 Harley-Davidson and the off-road F-150 SVT Raptor, winner of the 2009 Truck of Texas.
F-Series also offers the industry-first Ford Work Solutions, an innovative suite of options including an in-dash computer with Internet access, Tool Link to track tools, Crew Chief technology to dispatch workers and reduce vehicle operating costs and Cable Lock to improve security of tools and equipment.
When the 2011 F-Series Super Duty hits dealership showrooms this spring, it will feature an all-new Ford-designed, Ford-engineered and Ford-built 6.7-liter Power Stroke turbocharged V-8 diesel engine.
Top-sellers
The top-selling Ford truck dealerships in the country are located in Texas, Nebraska and Missouri. Among them: Woodhouse Ford, Blair, Nebraska; Philpott Ford, Port Neches, Texas; Planet Ford, Spring, Texas; Midway Ford Truck Center, Kansas City, Missouri.; Five Star Ford, North Richland Hills, Texas; Sam Pack’s Five Star Ford, Carrollton, Texas.
Quotes
“When it comes to trucks, only one stat matters – how customers vote with their wallets. And the results are clear – the capability, productivity, technology and value of Ford F-Series is unmatched.”
– Doug Scott, Ford Truck Group Marketing Manager
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
As Americans fight through the most stressful time of the year, Ford Motor Company and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) are embarking on a plan to study driver workload and identify new opportunities to use in-vehicle technologies to improve driver safety by lowering stress.
While holiday shoppers recover from fighting long lines, crowded parking lots and icy roads, Ford and MIT researchers are focusing on how the car can potentially enhance overall human wellness, become an oasis from stressful situations, and increase driver attention and safety.
Studying stress factors
Partnering with MIT's renowned AgeLab, the project will identify specific stress-inducing driving situations, monitor a driver's reaction to the situations using biometrics, and evaluate methods to incorporate new stress-reducing features into the next generation of Ford products. A six-month effort beginning this January will focus on human interaction with a specially equipped 2010 Lincoln MKS, a vehicle already recognized for its advanced safety features.
The goal of this program is to take this one step further by creating the most comfortable driving environment possible so that our driver is always relaxed, calm and able to perform at peak performance.
Ford and MIT – partners in driver wellness
This current undertaking is the next step in an ongoing effort to study and, eventually, significantly improve driver wellness. Since 2004, Ford and MIT’s AgeLab – in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s New England University Transportation Center – have been working to develop vehicle systems that detect the state of a driver at key points in time. This project envisions using this information to adjust systems in the car in ways that reduce driver stress. One of the goals of this work is to help the driver recapture the wellness experience that driving once promised.
By identifying specific situations and the physiological effect they have on the driver, Ford and MIT are seeking solutions that can bring the driver from a heightened stress level back to an optimal operational state and thereby make their commute safer and more comfortable, renewing the positive experience of driving and riding in an automobile.
By monitoring biometrics such as heart rate, skin conductivity and eye movement, researchers at MIT have been working to develop a specific set of parameters for an embedded detection system that could be engineered into future Ford vehicles.
Increasing human-vehicle connectivity through biometrics may provide the next major breakthrough in vehicle safety and lead the development of aware vehicle systems.
Diet, exercise, rest...and a stress-free car
Today’s consumers are seeking every edge they can in the pursuit of a healthier and happier life, including diet, exercise and rest. Ford is committed to introducing in-vehicle technology that minimizes anxiety and actively mitigates stress levels so that the vehicle can serve a beneficial role in a human's life like a healthy diet or regular exercise, and ultimately be part of the total wellness solution.
Ford and MIT expect to conclude this phase of the study in July 2010. Findings of the study will be made public shortly after its conclusion.
Quotes
“We strongly believe that driving can be made safer by reducing the stress load placed on a driver. Through the use of our existing technologies such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning or SYNC, our voice-activated communications system, we are proactively guiding drivers away from difficult situations. We have the opportunity to recast the driving experience not as a source of stress, but as a refuge from the daily grind and an opportunity to refresh the driver “
– Jeff Rupp, Ford Manager, Active Safety Research
“Today’s driver is feeling a greater level of anxiety than in the past, both from situations inside and outside the vehicle. This arises in part from the chronic stress in individuals’ daily lives combined with longer commute times, increased driving demands due to traffic congestion and deteriorating infrastructure.”
– Joseph Coughlin, Founder and Director of MIT's AgeLab
The 5.0 is back! The 2011 Ford Mustang GT arrives with an all-new advanced 5.0-liter V-8 engine, developed by a passionate cadre of enthusiastic engineers who rallied around the common goal of delivering more than 400 horsepower.
The modern 5.0-liter four-valve Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) V-8 engine in the new Mustang GT will deliver 412 horsepower and 390 ft.-lb. of torque. At the same time, fuel economy is projected to be better than the previous model and unsurpassed in the segment.
Ti-VCT
A critical element in the 5.0-liter V-8’s ability to deliver 412 horsepower, with improved drivability, tractability and fuel economy over the 2010 Mustang GT powertrain, is enhanced Ti-VCT.
For a high-performance application, the Ford powertrain team specified cam-torque-actuated variable camshaft timing. Using existing cam torque energy, with assistance from pressurized oil, meant that minimal upgrades to the oil pump were required, resulting in less parasitic drag. Increased volumetric and thermal efficiency gives faster Ti-VCT response at all engine speeds.
The all-new aluminum four-valve-per-cylinder heads feature a compact roller finger follower valvetrain layout leaving more room for high-flow ports for free-breathing performance. Head structure was designed to support higher cylinder head pressures and cross-flow cooling for sustained high-rpm use. Head bolt size was increased from 11 to 12 millimeters to contain the higher combustion pressures.
The aluminum block was developed for optimized windage and oil drainback under lateral conditions and high rpm, such as a track-day outing for an enthusiastic owner and driver. Increased main bearing bulkhead widths and nodular iron cross-bolted main bearing caps with upsized bolts were also employed to accommodate the significant performance increase.
Performance and fuel economy
The 412 horsepower and 390 ft.-lb. of torque delivered by the 2011 Mustang GT 5.0-liter V-8 represent significant increases versus the 2010 model year output levels.
The six-speed automatic transmission on the 2011 Mustang GT will deliver up to an estimated 25 mpg highway and 17 in the city. This is up from 23 mpg highway and 17 city for the 2010 model. Six-speed manual transmission Mustang GT models for 2011 are projected to deliver 24 mpg highway and 16 city, matching the 2010 model but delivering significantly more horsepower and performance feel.
2011 Mustang GT fuel economy is enabled by the Ti-VCT, the six-speed transmissions in automatic or manual variations, EPAS and an additional rear decklid seal to enhance aerodynamics.
Fuel economy also is aided by engineering a lightweight powertrain. The engine, as shipped, weighs just 430 pounds. This represents a weight savings of more than 20 percent versus the previous 5.0-liter offering. Lower mass can be attributed to the aluminum block and heads, the lightweight composite intake manifold, composite cam covers and hollow camshafts.
Improved driving dynamics
EPAS has made a dramatic contribution to Mustang GT driving dynamics, delivering quicker on-center steering response, increased effort at highway speeds and reduced effort required in low-speed parking maneuvers. EPAS allows specific tuning for the Mustang GT application.
The 2011 Mustang GT features an enhanced rear lower control arm to add stiffness, improve powertrain NVH control and sharpen handling. A stiffened rear stabilizer bar for better on-center steering is also included. Stabilizer bar diameters, spring rates and dampers all have been tuned for improved dynamics.
A Brembo brake package upgrade will be available for serious enthusiasts. This package includes 14-inch vented front discs from the GT500 Mustang, unique 19-inch alloy wheels and summer performance tires.
Read more about the new 5.0-liter Mustang GT.
Quotes
“This all-new 5.0-liter engine is the next chapter in the development of the world-class Mustang powertrain portfolio. It’s a thoroughly modern engine for the times, delivering the performance and fun-to-drive factor that enthusiasts want, while improving fuel economy.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Group Vice President, Global Product Development
“This powertrain honors Mustang’s heritage by raising the bar on performance while increasing fuel economy. For enthusiasts, such as the passionate members of the 5.0-liter V-8 team, it’s like having your cake and eating it, too.”
– Barb Samardzich, Vice President, Powertrain Development
iTunes Tagging and crystal-clear radio sound through HD Radio technology are the latest features on Ford’s growing list of factory-installed customer conveniences and technologies that will be newly available in 2010.
HD Radio receivers pull in digital radio signals and play them with dramatically improved sound. FM stations, for example, have near-CD quality, making it convenient for customers to select songs they want to download and purchase.
In 2010, Ford vehicles will offer familiar terrestrial radio, HD Radio technology, SIRIUS® Satellite Radio as well as Internet radio through Ford SYNC® from a Bluetooth®-streaming audio-capable smartphone. Like the song? You can tag it
The world’s first implementation of iTunes Tagging in a factory-installed HD Radioreceiver will launch in 2010 on select Ford vehicles. Through the SYNC system, iTunes Tagging will provide Ford customers with the ability to capture a song they hear on the HD Radio receiver for later purchase. With a simple push of the “TAG” button on the radio display, the song information will be stored in the radio’s memory.
Up to 100 tags can be stored on SYNC until the iPod is connected to receive the download of metadata. When the iPod is then synced to iTunes, a playlist of “tagged” songs will appear. Customers then can preview and, if desired, purchase and download tagged songs from the iTunes Store.
All HD Radio-enabled receivers in Ford vehicles also will provide Program Service Data – information that appears on the radio screen and includes song title, artist name and more.
Quotes
“iTunes Tagging and HD Radio technology are strong new additions to the growing collection of Ford convenience features and technology we’re offering customers to make driving even more enjoyable. This is another example of Ford’s commitment to bring the widest variety of factory-installed customer-focused technology, features and conveniences to millions of people.”
– Mark Fields, President of The Americas, Ford Motor Company
“Ford continues to lead the market in bringing advanced capabilities to popular vehicles. We are very pleased that HD Radio technology is an integral part of Ford’s broad offering of new features.”
– Jeff Jury, COO of iBiquity Digital Corporation, the developer of HD Radio technology.
The new Mustang GT continues Ford\'s powertrain offensive with an all-new 5.0-liter V-8, which uses advanced technology to deliver 412 horsepower and projected unsurpassed highway mileage of 25 mpg
For 2011, Mustang GT adds specially tuned Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS), 11.5-inch front and 11.8-inch rear vented disc brakes, and an enhanced suspension featuring an improved rear lower control arm and stiffened rear stabilizer bushings
For enthusiasts, a Brembo brake package, with larger rotors and calipers from the Ford Shelby GT500® Mustang, unique 19-inch wheels and summer performance tires, is offered; new fender badges herald return of the 5.0-liter engine
The 5.0 is back! The 2011 Ford Mustang GT arrives with an all-new advanced 5.0-liter V-8 engine, developed by a passionate cadre of enthusiastic engineers who rallied around the common goal of delivering more than 400 horsepower.
The modern 5.0-liter four-valve Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) V-8 engine in the new Mustang GT will deliver 412 horsepower and 390 ft.-lb. of torque. At the same time, fuel economy is projected to be better than the previous model and unsurpassed in the segment.
Coyote in the lobby
Many of the engineers on the development team have worked in the Engine and Electrical Engineering Building on the Dearborn, Mich., product development center campus. For years they walked past the original 5.0-liter V-8 Coyote Indy racing engine on display in the lobby, continually inspired by its mix of heritage, high technology and horsepower.
The powertrain development community had long wanted to develop a new 5.0-liter powertrain, with strategic discussions beginning in 2000. By 2007, the Mustang competitive landscape was beginning to change, a sign that the time was right for advancing the Mustang GT powertrain to world-class levels.
The team began 5.0-liter engine development with the objective of delivering 400-plus horsepower, on a timetable accelerated by 12 months without compromises in reliability, durability, fuel economy, or noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) control.
Development test engines and benchmarks included 5.0-liter blocks, employing different bore and stroke measurements, GT500 four-valve-per-cylinder heads and cams, various intake manifold runner configurations, differing compression ratios and a deep-sump oil pan. The team also evaluated Ford Racing\'s 5.0-liter \"Cammer\" V-8 crate engine for transferable best practices.
Extensive computer-aided engineering (CAE) modeling, development engine experimentation and evaluation in combination with intricate machine work brought this promising, all-new configuration to jaw-dropping life in an accelerated time frame.
The result of this development is an \"and\" solution, not an \"or.\" 2011 Mustang buyers will enjoy the benefits of a powerful engine as well as responsible fuel economy.
Ti-VCT
A critical element in the 5.0-liter V-8\'s ability to deliver 412 horsepower, with improved drivability, tractability and fuel economy over the 2010 Mustang GT powertrain, is enhanced Ti-VCT.
For a high-performance application, the team specified cam-torque-actuated variable camshaft timing. Using existing cam torque energy, with assistance from pressurized oil, meant that minimal upgrades to the oil pump were required, resulting in less parasitic drag. Increased volumetric and thermal efficiency gives faster Ti-VCT response at all engine speeds.
During the development phase, camshaft lift profile and port optimization started with higher-lift Ford Racing aftermarket units, modified for compatibility with various four-valve-per-cylinder heads. Extensive CAE and dynamometer testing was performed to fine-tune camshaft events and port flow for performance and fuel efficiency in conjunction with the variable camshaft timing.
The resulting all-new aluminum four-valve-per-cylinder heads feature a compact roller finger follower valvetrain layout leaving more room for high-flow ports for free-breathing performance. Head structure was designed to support higher cylinder head pressures and cross-flow cooling for sustained high-rpm use. Head bolt size was increased from 11 to 12 millimeters to contain the higher combustion pressures.
The aluminum block was developed for optimized windage and oil drainback under lateral conditions and high rpm, such as a track-day outing for an enthusiastic owner and driver. Increased main bearing bulkhead widths and nodular iron cross-bolted main bearing caps with upsized bolts were also employed to accommodate the significant performance increase. An additional element is the increased capacity and baffling of the deep-sump stamped steel oil pan to enable sustained high-rpm use and offer the convenience of 10,000-mile oil change intervals. Piston-cooling jets also were incorporated for performance-minded customers and for faster oil warm-up on cold start.
Specially designed tubular exhaust headers were developed to maximize exhaust pulse separation and improve flow. A team analyst actually fabricated the tubular headers in his home workshop, bringing the CAE design to life.
Performance and fuel economy
The 412 horsepower and 390 ft.-lb. of torque delivered by the 2011 Mustang GT 5.0-liter V-8 represent significant increases versus the 2010 model year output levels.
The six-speed automatic transmission on the 2011 Mustang GT will deliver up to an estimated 25 mpg highway and 17 in the city. This is up from 23 mpg highway and 17 city for the 2010 model. Six-speed manual transmission Mustang GT models for 2011 are projected to deliver 24 mpg highway and 16 city, matching the 2010 model but delivering significantly more horsepower and performance feel.
2011 Mustang GT fuel economy is enabled by the Ti-VCT, the six-speed transmissions in automatic or manual variations, EPAS and an additional rear decklid seal to enhance aerodynamics.
Fuel economy also is aided by engineering a lightweight powertrain. The engine, as shipped, weighs just 430 pounds. This represents a weight savings of more than 20 percent versus the previous 5.0-liter offering. Lower mass can be attributed to the aluminum block and heads, the lightweight composite intake manifold, composite cam covers and hollow camshafts. Improved driving dynamics EPAS has made a dramatic contribution to Mustang GT driving dynamics, delivering quicker on-center steering response, increased effort at highway speeds and reduced effort required in low-speed parking maneuvers. EPAS allows specific tuning for the Mustang GT application.
The 2011 Mustang GT features an enhanced rear lower control arm to add stiffness, improve powertrain NVH control and sharpen handling. A stiffened rear stabilizer bar for better on-center steering is also included. Stabilizer bar diameters, spring rates and dampers all have been tuned for improved dynamics.
A Brembo brake package upgrade will be available for serious enthusiasts. This package includes 14-inch vented front discs from the GT500 Mustang, unique 19-inch alloy wheels and summer performance tires.
Added convenience content
For 2011, Mustang GT offers drivers several new convenience technologies, including:
Standard message center
Integrated blind spot mirrors
MyKey™ programmable vehicle key
Illuminated visors
Universal garage door opener
Sun visor storage
New look
From the 5.0 fender badges to the new engine cover, Mustang GT honors and continues the proud heritage of its predecessors. The speedometer increases to 160 mph and the tachometer redline advances from 6,500 to 7,000 rpm.
Three vibrant new colors will be added for 2011 including Yellow Blaze Tri-Coat, Race Red and Ingot Silver.
Improved NVH control and convertible rigidity
For 2011, Mustang GT benefits from across-the-board NVH improvements. These include additional sound-deadening material on either side of the instrument panel, an additional seal between door and rocker panel to reduce wind noise and a real wheel arch liner to reduce noise on gravel or wet surfaces.
Mustang GT convertible models feature enhanced structural rigidity, with lateral stiffness improved by 12 percent versus the 2010 model. A tower-to-tower front strut brace is now standard, and the V-brace has been stiffened by adding gussets. The secondary crossmember also has been stiffened while a front Z-brace has been added, connecting primary and secondary crossmembers. A-pillar stiffening foam also has been added to increase rigidity.
Quotes
\"This all-new 5.0-liter engine is the next chapter in the development of the world-class Mustang powertrain portfolio. It\'s a thoroughly modern engine for the times, delivering the performance and fun-to-drive factor that enthusiasts want, while improving fuel economy.\" - Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development Ford Motor Company
\"Nearly all of the team members have worked on other high-profile powertrain programs. They all had a clear vision of the work required on their particular component or subsystem. Their passion for engines, racing and delivering every last ounce of performance throughout the engine speed range really demonstrated that they put their heads and their hearts into this powertrain.\" – Mike Harrison, V-8 Engine Programs Manager, Ford Motor Company
\"This powertrain honors Mustang\'s heritage by raising the bar on performance while increasing fuel economy, For enthusiasts, such as the passionate members of the 5.0-liter V-8 team, it\'s like having your cake and eating it, too.\" - Barb Samardzich, Vice President, Powertrain Development, Ford Motor Company
Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) technology is a key element in helping the new 5.0-liter V-8 Mustang GT deliver class-leading performance and fuel efficiency
Variable camshaft timing in the Mustang GT 5.0-liter uses camshaft torque energy actuation, with assistance from pressurized oil, resulting in a broad torque curve
Camshaft torque will advance or retard camshaft timing based on internal routing, via one-way valves, resulting in more immediate response across a wide range of engine speeds
Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) will allow drivers of the 2011 Mustang GT to balance high performance and fuel economy.
Ti-VCT provides extremely precise variable – yet independent – control of timing for intake and exhaust valves. Drivers of the 2011 Mustang GT will notice abundant torque and class-leading fuel economy. An additional benefit of Ti-VCT is a reduction of emissions, especially in situations when the throttle is partially open.
Independent adjustment of intake and exhaust valve timing allows maximum fuel economy at part-throttle, while delivering optimized power in full-throttle situations. An added benefit is improved drivability and responsiveness across the torque curve.
How Ti-VCT works
The new 5.0-liter V-8 in the 2011 Mustang GT is a double-overhead-camshaft configuration that employs two camshafts per cylinder bank – one camshaft to operate the intake valves and one camshaft to operate the exhaust valves. Ti-VCT rotates the camshafts to advance or retard the cam timing, based on several measures including throttle opening.
An element unique to the Mustang GT 5.0-liter V-8 application is that Ti-VCT is actuated by camshaft torque, with assistance from pressurized oil. Using camshaft torque energy provides faster throttle response and maximizes use of existing energy, to aid fuel economy. Camshaft torque energy Ti-VCT actuation is a Ford innovation, introduced first on the 3.0-liter V-6.
Working like a ratchet, the one-way valves allow precise timing of camshaft events, continually optimizing timing to provide maximum thrust or fuel economy, based on driver input.
Quotes
"Ti-VCT is a win-win-win technolog. It helps our new range of engines to deliver high performance with unsurpassed projected highway fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon and reduced emissions." - Barb Samardzich, Vice President, Global Powertrain Development, Ford Motor Company
Ti-VCT technology will continue to proliferate across the Ford powertrain portfolio. By 2013, you can expect to see this advancement available on 90 percent of our nameplates." - Barb Samardzich, Vice President, Global Powertrain Development, Ford Motor Company
Dave Pericak, chief engineer of the Ford Mustang, comes from a family that owned Fords; he wanted to own a Mustang while growing up
The Chicago native started his career as a manufacturing engineer in a parts plant
Pericak has a 1968 Mustang he likes to work on, as well as a 2000 Mustang GT convertible
Each work day for Dave Pericak is absolutely packed. And he couldn\'t be happier about it.
Pericak\'s dream while growing up was to own a Ford Mustang. It\'s a dream shared by many, as more than 9 million Mustangs have been sold, and the iconic muscle car has been the top seller in its class for 45 consecutive years.
Pericak has attained a position that other Mustang owners can only dream about: he\'s Mustang\'s chief engineer. That means he is responsible for engineering, manufacturing, quality, cost – in short, everything.
\"You hear a lot about how people have their dream job and how lucky they are,\" said Pericak. \"Well, I\'m definitely one of those lucky few. It\'s an honor to lead the Mustang team. This car, more than any other, represents the freedom we have in this country and it is raw power at its finest.\"
That raw power will get an even bigger boost with the return of Mustang GT to its rightful place, at its rightful displacement of 5.0 liters. This advanced Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) V-8 engine delivers 412 horsepower and – when paired with a six-speed automatic transmission – improved fuel economy over the previous offering. This new engine – along with six-speed automatic and manual transmissions – will be available on the 2011 Mustang GT.
\"Mustang continues to evolve with more power, class-leading fuel economy, industry-first technology and a bold, muscular design evocative of classic Mustangs,\" said Pericak. \"What excites me most about the 2011 Mustang is that we will prove you don\'t need to trade performance for fuel economy.\"
Moving the legend forward
Pericak said one of his goals as Mustang\'s chief engineer is to bring even more edginess back to America\'s favorite sports car.
\"I want to take a great car and make it second to none,\" he said. \"The 2010 Mustang is outstanding, and the next couple of years will be some of the most exciting for Mustang. Our vision is to make Mustang a world-class sports car.\"
Pericak\'s first Mustang was the 2000 GT convertible. He also has a 1968 version he\'s restoring.
\"Owning the cars and having a passion for them keeps me grounded with customer wants and expectations as I am truly a customer of Mustang,\" Pericak said. \"This helps me as I make decisions about Mustang going forward.\"
City boy takes to country living
Pericak began his career at Ford as a manufacturing engineer at a parts plant working on door panels. This position afforded Pericak the chance to interact with several chief engineers and inspired his desire to direct a vehicle program himself.
\"For the program to be Mustang was almost too much to hope for,\" he said.
A native of Chicago, Pericak and his wife, KrysAnna (\"my high school sweetheart\"), have been married 13 years and live in Bruce Township, Mich., with their 20-month-old son Dominic.
\"The best thing about living here is the outdoors,\" said Pericak. \"My house is my favorite place to hang out. We live on a pond – I love to fish – and have a bit of land. The wildlife is awesome. I always feel like I\'m on vacation.\"
Personal Insights and Fun Facts
Pericak has been married to KrysAnna for 13 years.
They have one child, Dominic, 20 months
His favorite auto-themed movie is \"Gone in Sixty Seconds.\" Not surprisingly, the famous Mustang, named \"Eleanor,\" is his favorite car featured in a movie or TV show
In Pericak\'s garage are a 1968 Mustang, a 2000 Mustang GT convertible, a Lincoln MKT and a Ford Focus. \"I am going to add another Mustang soon,\" he says
Pericak recently wrote a chapter in the book Program Management Circa 2025
Mike Harrison is team leader for developing and delivering the 5.0-liter V-8 that powers the 2011 Ford Mustang GT
A native of the U.K., Harrison was profoundly influenced by the rally success of the Mk. I Ford Escort, which swept the top three spots in the 1973 Rally of Great Britain
Motorsports has provided inspiration and motivation for Harrison's work in high-performance engine development
Mike Harrison's favorite Ford product is the Mk. I Ford Escort RS1600, a European-market model that established the Blue Oval as a rally force to be reckoned with.
"It was a wonderful rally car with great motorsports heritage," reflected Harrison, V-8 engine programs manager. "My father had a British-built Escort – a bright-red 1973 model – that sparked my interest in all things automotive and the Ford brand specifically."
Harrison says he grew up on a steady diet of watching rally and road racing, and indeed, motorsports has played an important role in his life, both inside and outside of his office at Ford's product development center in Dearborn, Mich.
Participating in Sports Car Club of America road racing events – in a wide range of vehicles from a near-stock Improved Touring C Ford Mk. I Fiesta to a vintage H Production MG Midget and a GT3 Mazda RX7 – has given Harrison the on-track, behind-the-wheel perspective to lead the development of successful racing engines.
In addition to leading development of the 2011 Mustang GT 5.0-liter V-8, Harrison's team delivered the all-new 6.2-liter V-8 for Super Duty® and Raptor, including the 500-hp Baja 1000 Raptor R race truck engine. Working with Roush, they also developed a normally aspirated 7.0-liter 800-hp V-8 for the Don Bowles Mustang drag racing car.
"Knowing our most enthusiastic Mustang GT customers will be aggressively driving their cars in club track-day events, autocrosses and other grassroots motorsports opportunities really pushed the team to make the all-new 5.0-liter V-8 a durable powerhouse," said Harrison proudly. "Oil drainback has been optimized to allow for sufficient lubrication, even under lateral, high-rpm conditions such as high-speed cornering at a closed track event."
Harrison is a native of the town of Nelson in Lancashire, England, and graduated from Loughborough University of Technology in the U.K. He started at Ford in 1983 as an undergraduate intern, and then advanced to engine calibration engineer when he accepted a full-time position. His tenure with the company has provided assignments in the U.K. and Germany as well as the United States, where he is now based.
"We're really having fun at Ford these days," he said. "For a performance and motorsports enthusiast, this is a wonderful place to be."
Personal Insights and Fun Facts
Mike, his wife Sharon and their four children – ages 8 to 16 – enjoy spending off-hours outdoors in Northern Michigan
He is a golfer and is currently restoring a Harley-Davidson™ motorcycle.
For 20 years, Mike has owned a 1972 British Racing Green MGB
Todd Brewer is Ford's top technical resource for cylinder head design
A native of Leadwood, Mo., Brewer led the team that designed and developed the free-breathing cylinder heads for the 5.0-liter V-8 in the 2011 Ford Mustang GT
A part-time mechanic in high school and fervent Mustang enthusiast, Brewer owns a cherished 1987 Mustang 5.0-liter
From Todd Brewer's perspective, breathing is as important to a high-performance engine as it is to a marathon runner.
"An engine is really a great big air pump," said Brewer, Ford's technical expert on cylinder head design. "The better the engine breathes, the better it performs. Better airflow improves volumetric efficiency as well as fuel economy – just like breathing helps marathon runners go the distance."
Designing and developing free-breathing cylinder heads for the new 5.0-liter V-8 presented a challenge and an opportunity for Brewer and the team.
"Breaking the 400 horsepower barrier, with uncompromised fuel economy, tractability, smoothness, and noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) characteristics was a tall order," said Brewer. "Striking the optimal balance between all of these attributes required us to do all the things we know how to do, only better – like optimizing port flow while still enabling all the needed features of the engine system, such as Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT), to combine power and efficiency."
The Mustang 5.0 team members like to describe their new 5.0-liter V-8 as a "have your cake and eat it, too" proposition. It produces 412 horsepower and 390 ft.-lb. of torque, yet is projected to deliver the same fuel economy – or better, depending on the transmission specified – as its predecessor.
"We are all very proud of the 5.0-liter V-8," said Brewer. "It's the opportunity for the team to deliver a world-class engine in terms of specific output – more than 80 horsepower per liter – and improved fuel economy, while employing implementation-ready approaches and technologies. It's a high-volume, affordable engine that can compete with much more expensive and exotic engines."
Brewer hails from Leadwood, Mo., a former lead-mining village of 1,200 inhabitants. Working as a mechanic in high school got him excited about engines, so he pursued a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering at the University of Missouri-Rolla.
During undergrad vacations Brewer worked two summer internships at Ford, which led to a permanent position with the company upon graduation. He later went on to earn a master's in mechanical engineering from the University of Michigan.
Like many of his teammates, Brewer is an enthusiastic Mustang fan.
"During my second Ford internship, I spent every extra penny I earned on a 1987 Mustang GT 5.0-liter," he said proudly. "To this day, I still own it."
For members of the team, the V-8 represents their best possible work from their heads, their hands and their hearts.
"I've never before seen such passion and dedication to a project," Brewer said. "This engine represents the very best of our collective experience. It returns the Mustang GT to its rightful place, at its rightful displacement of 5.0 liters."
Personal Insights and Fun Facts
Todd is single and lives in Dearborn, Mich.
He was a part-time mechanic in high school, which got him enthusiastic about engines
Prior to joining the company, Brewer served as a Ford college intern for two summers
Brewer has been with Ford for 15 years, working with cylinder heads for more than 10 of those years
At 14, Adam Christian envisioned his goal of designing engines for Ford Mustang
An Ohio native, Christian was profoundly influenced by his uncle, an engine builder and drag racer
Christian fabricated prototype 5.0-liter exhaust manifolds, after-hours, in his home workshop
Intake, Combustion and Exhaust (ICE) Engineer Adam Christian read an illustrated Mustang history book at the impressionable age of 14 that set a course for his career.
"Learning that Lee Iaccoca had earned a master's degree, on top of his bachelor's in mechanical engineering, I decided that would be my path, too," Christian reflected.
As a teen, Christian spent considerable time with his uncle, an engine builder and amateur drag racer. Born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, he stayed close to home for college. At The Ohio State University, he earned both an undergraduate degree as well as a master's in mechanical engineering.
"Throughout college, cars and engines were always my passion," said Christian. "Between drag racing with my uncle and getting involved in road racing with some college buddies, my passion for cars is what kept me on track." During graduate work at OSU, Christian was mentored by Professor Ahmet Selamet, a specialist in internal combustion flow characteristics, thermal dynamics and heat transfer. In addition to participating in Selamet's Ford-sponsored research work, Christian was exposed to a pair of Ford-supplied dynamometers and a 1940s-vintage Ford flow bench. He was hooked.
After graduate school, Christian hired in with the Ford College Graduate (FCG) program. Part of his FCG rotation was spent with Ford Racing engineers, where he contributed to Ford's NASCAR restrictor plate program. He also took instruction from a top-ranked exhaust header fabricator at Roush-Yates Racing Engines.
Although Christian has only been with Ford for five years, he has observed significant and positive cultural changes in the organization.
"When I arrived, the conversation was all about the competition," he said. "Now, the customer is our unwavering focus. For veteran engineers, and relative newcomers like me, this has been both inspiring and empowering."
Christian is proud to be part of a team that has contributed to across-the-board improvement in Ford's powertrain portfolio, with each successive new engine delivering more power and increased fuel economy compared to its predecessor.
"Working on an icon like the 5.0-liter Mustang engine is the realization of the dream I've nurtured since the ninth grade," said Christian. "This engine – 412 horsepower with refinement and improved fuel economy – is for our Mustang customers and fans. They own it, not us."
Living a dream can make an engineer careful what he wishes for.
"The greatest obstacle we faced on the 5.0-liter was getting the fabricated exhaust manifolds into the program," said Christian. "Initial supplier prototypes failed to meet program objectives, and we were running out of time. Computational Fluid Dynamics Analyst Beth Dalrymple and I quickly finalized the computer-aided engineering (CAE) design and I built the prototype manifolds in my home workshop." Christian's handcrafted manifolds were instantly installed on a development engine and dynamometer-tested, yielding an incremental increase of 6 horsepower and 14 additional ft.-lb. of torque. The home-grown headers became benchmarks for production pieces. The entire process took two weeks.
While Christian already owns two vintage Mustangs, he intends to purchase a 2011 Mustang GT with the new 5.0-liter V-8 as soon as it becomes available.
"This engine has so many attributes," said Christian. "It's got a broad, useful torque curve, high specific output and high technology. Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) allows us to have our cake and eat it, too. Ti-VCT, the 11:1 compression ratio, aggressive fuel shutoff on closed throttle – all combine to allow this engine to deliver unexpected fuel economy."
Christian is married and in his spare time works on his vintage Mustangs, continually striving to optimize their performance.
"I'm lucky to contribute to the Mustang 5.0-liter program," said Christian. "Like so many of my teammates, my profession and hobby are truly the same magnificent obsession."
Personal Insights and Fun Facts
Adam owns two vintage Mustangs, including a modified 1966 Coupe – his first car
He is assisting, pro bono, in restoration of a museum-owned 1966 Ford GT Mk. II A
Adam is an annual ICE guest lecturer at Rose Hulman Institute of Technology
His dogeared copy of Modern Compressible Flow is seldom out of his reach
Forty years after its namesake became a road racing legend, the BOSS is back on track for 2010 with a new 5.0-liter V-8 engine.
In honor of the 40th anniversary of Parnelli Jones' 1970 Trans-Am championship in a Mustang BOSS 302 prepared by Bud Moore Engineering, Ford Racing is introducing the BOSS 302R, a factory-built race car ready for track days and road racing in a number of Grand-Am, SCCA and NASA classes.
The Mustang BOSS 302R is a serialized off-road-only vehicle ready to race. Each base model will come with a 5.0-liter four-valve engine and a six-speed manual transmission with a roll cage, race seats, safety harness, data acquisition and race dampers/springs, and a Brembo brake and tire package, starting at an MSRP of $79,000.
And, with a special Grand-Am Homologation Package (M-FR500-BOSS R1), it will also be ready to compete in the Grand-Am Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge series (formerly known as KONI Challenge), starting with the season-opening race in Daytona on Jan. 29, 2010. As of today, five BOSS 302R race cars will be delivered to customers ready to race in Daytona. MSRP of the BOSS 302R1 is $129,000.
The Grand-Am Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge-ready Mustang BOSS 302R will feature a sealed high-output race engine with an upgraded cooling system, a close-ratio six-speed transmission with integral shifter, a seam-welded body, race suspension/KONI dampers and ABS brake tuning, race performance exhaust and a high-speed balance one-piece driveshaft.
The BOSS 302R follows in the very successful footsteps of its most recent road racing predecessor – the Mustang FR500C from Ford Racing. In 2005, when the Mustang FR500C debuted at Daytona, the first car was delivered on Wednesday of that week and won the KONI Challenge race on Friday.
In five years of competition since then, the Mustang FR500C has won three Triple Crown championships of driver, team and manufacturer's titles in KONI competition including back-to-back (2008 and 2009). The FR500C has also seen success in FIA GT4 competition winning the 2007 and 2008 driver's championships.
Each Ford Racing factory-built production-based turnkey race car has won its competition debut.
Available through Ford dealers, a total of 50 BOSS 302R Mustangs will be built by Ford Racing. Delivery is anticipated in the third quarter of 2010.
For more information on Ford Racing Performance Parts, please visit www.fordracingparts.com.
Quotes:
"To keep pace with consumer demand, the Ford team has built modern versions of the most iconic performance Mustangs over the years. From Shelbys to Bullitt, Mach and Cobra Jet, it is now time for BOSS to join the list of America's most coveted Mustangs. The original BOSS 302 was a championship-winning legend and the new Mustang BOSS 302R will carry on the tradition. The Mustang was born to race from the start, and this new Mustang is bred to win." - Jamie Allison, Director, Ford North America Motorsports
"We expect the BOSS 302R to continue the successful tradition of winning with factory-built production-based race cars from Ford Racing. The FR500C and FR500S road racing Mustangs, and the Mustang FR500CJ (Cobra Jet) for drag racing have proven to be great cars for our customers, helping teams win races and championships. We believe that the BOSS 302R will provide that same sort of competitive product for our customers with the tradition you can only get from Ford Racing." - Jamie Allison, Director, Ford North America Motorsports
"Racing has long served as a technical proving grounds for production engines. What's good enough for the streets is now good enough for the racetrack. The 5.0-liter block and architecture in the Mustang BOSS 302R is the same as the 2011 Mustang GT." - Jamie Allison, Director, Ford North America Motorsports
"We have a great team on the BOSS 302R project. Between our partners at AutoAlliance International, where the Mustang is built, Team Mustang, Multimatic and the entire Ford Racing team, we have once again proven to be a leader in turnkey production-based race cars." - Andy Slankard, Ford Racing engineering supervisor and the lead engineer on the BOSS 302R project
The 2010 Ford Flex and the award-winning 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid have been named 2010 All-Stars by AUTOMOBILE Magazine, one of America's leading automotive lifestyle publications.
The AUTOMOBILE Magazine All-Stars are chosen by the AUTOMOBILE Magazine staff, its worldwide bureau chiefs and its contributors, following an intensive test drive of the year's most innovative and important new cars. Winners are selected based on design, value and performance, driving enjoyment and the vehicle's ability to redefine an existing category or create a new market segment.
The 2010 Ford Flex: Turning heads today and tomorrow
This year marks the second consecutive win for the Ford Flex. Last year, AUTOMOBILE Magazine described the 2009 model as a "class act among people movers."
In addition to being named one of AUTOMOBILE Magazine's 2010 All-Stars, the 2010 Ford Flex was recently singled out for the 2009 "Collectible Vehicle of the Future" award from the Friends of the National Automotive History Collection (NAHC). Members of the organization, which supports the world-famous automotive collection at the Detroit Public Library, predict Flex will be the vehicle most likely to turn heads at the Woodward Dream Cruise of 2034. Ford's unique crossover has been turning heads since its introduction in 2007.
For 2010, the Flex offers outstanding fuel economy in the full-size crossover segment with 17 mpg city/24 highway and an unsurpassed 20 mpg combined. It also offers a twin-turbocharged, direct-injected 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 engine, an auto-fold 60/40 second-row split bench seat, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel and the Ford-exclusive MyKey™ technology, which allows owners to program a maximum top speed – and radio volume – to encourage safe operation by teen drivers.
Banner year for 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
2009 has been a banner year for the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid. In addition to being named one of AUTOMOBILE Magazine's 2010 All-Stars, America's most fuel-efficient midsize sedan was honored as one of CAR and DRIVER magazine's "10Best" cars for 2010, and the entire Fusion lineup captured the prestigious MOTOR TREND Car of the Year award. The Fusion Hybrid also is a finalist for North American Car of the Year.
Despite the slump in overall industry sales, Fusion sales are at an all-time high for 2009, with the Fusion Hybrid accounting for almost 20 percent of total Fusion retail sales. And more than 60 percent of Fusion sales have been to customers coming from import brands – mostly Toyota and Honda.
Additional awards and accolades for the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid include:
"Top Safety Pick" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
2009 Ward's Interior of the Year Special Achievement Award for Best Graphic Display for SmartGauge™ with EcoGuide digital instrument cluster
Great Car for the Long-haul Salesman by Kelley Blue Book kbb.com
Named one of America's Top 40 New Cars by MOTOR TREND magazine
Rated the No. 1 Hybrid Family Sedan by CAR and DRIVER in a recent comparison test by the magazine
Named 2009 Editors Choice for Fuel Sipper by CAR and DRIVER
Named Best Hybrid for the Money in the Midsize Car segment by cars.com
Named one of 2009 Top 10 Green Cars by Kelley Blue Book kbb.com
Earned The Detroit News Readers' Choice Award for "Best Value"
Quotes
"The level of excellence found during our annual All-Stars competition was at an all-time high and the competition was strong, despite the auto industry coming off its worst year in recent history. We whittled down a list of 39 finalists to the 10 All-Stars, and the end results produced a list of true standouts."
– Jean Jennings, President and Editor-in-chief of AUTOMOBILE Magazine
"For 2010, Ford has equipped the Flex with its much-anticipated EcoBoost™ engine, thereby addressing the Flex's only weakness – power – and effectively transforming it from a well-rounded family hauler into a large sport wagon. The Flex is unique in a market brimming with compromised, look-alike utility vehicles and is one of the best-handling full-size crossovers on the market."
– Jean Jennings, President and Editor-in-chief of AUTOMOBILE Magazine
"Its very ordinariness is what makes the Fusion Hybrid an AUTOMOBILE Magazine All-Star. The Fusion Hybrid is not a performance machine, but neither does it feel hobbled or inadequate for daily driving. Perhaps the best thing about it is that, apart from the LCD color screens, you might never know you're driving a hybrid."
– Jean Jennings, President and Editor-in-chief of AUTOMOBILE Magazine
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
From Mustang pool tables, children’s T-shirts and remote-controlled Raptor pickups, Ford is cueing up a sleigh full of gift items that are just in time for the last-minute holiday shopper.
Ford’s new line of licensed items will fit every budget – from $15 to $15,000. There’s a high-end Mustang pool table, a children’s line of JCPenney T-shirts, a 2010 Mustang calendar and even a dog collar with a seat belt buckle latch and matching leash.
The Mustang pool table is molded from a 1965 Mustang and can be ordered in any paint color. Complete with working lights, alloy rims and wheels and chrome decals, bumpers and hardware, this high-end Mustang replica looks like the real thing. The pool table can be ordered online at www.mustangpooltable.com or over the phone by calling 727.827.8268; it costs $14,995.
Two new styles of children’s T-shirts are available for $15.99 at JCPenney stores nationwide. One T-shirt, a Super Duty design, features a dump truck; the other has a Ford tractor with the phrase “Playin’ Dirty!” on it.
For those last-minute stocking stuffers, a 2010 Mustang wall calendar will help you keep track of your days, while showcasing the ever-popular pony car. With 13 pictures, covering the 1964-1/2 model to the 2010 Mustang, nothing was forgotten. The calendar can be ordered online from www.thetimefactory.com for $6.99.
And of course, we can’t forget our furry friends. Dog collars and leashes round out the selection of last-minute gifts for the holiday season. Logos available include Ford Trucks, Mustang, the Blue Oval™ and Built Ford Tough®. The collar retails for $25 and even comes with a miniature seat belt buckle that releases with the push of a button. The leash costs $22, and can be purchased online from www.beltsdirect.com.
For more last-minute holiday gift needs, check out www.fordmarket.com for other Ford-licensed merchandise.
Quotes
“People are sharing their passion for Mustang, F-150 and other Ford vehicles with our great line of toys and other gifts. We’ve already sold thousands of the Raptor remote-controlled trucks – a great example of how a niche truck can create a big halo.”
– John Nens, Ford Global Brand Licensing Manager
Leaping into the world of virtual engineering, Ford Motor Company now employs the same type of motion-capture technology used to create films like “Avatar,” “Lord of the Rings” and “Shrek” to design vehicles that are more comfortable and enjoyable to drive.
Motion-capture, a technology that digitally captures movement, is used by Hollywood computer animators and video game designers to make nonhuman characters appear more lifelike. Ford uses the technology to create realistic digital humans that engineers use to test vehicles in the virtual world. Ford is the only automaker to use motion-capture software in this way for vehicle design.
Capturing motion in movies and cars
One of the newest ways Ford is using motion-capture technology is through a system called Human Occupant Package Simulator (HOPS), which combines motion-capture software with a special test vehicle to measure and evaluate body motion.
A human test subject is outfitted with up to 50 motion-capture sensors. The test subject performs a series of movements, such as swinging a leg outside of the vehicle or reaching for the seat belt. The markers record trajectories of the test subject’s movements. The recordings are then loaded into a database to create digital human models.
Ford engineers use the digital human models to evaluate movement using different virtual vehicle design proposals from a small car to a full-size pickup truck. The system also can be reconfigured to represent the driver and the front, second or even third-row passenger compartments.
The HOPS motion-capture technology allows engineers to apply a more scientific approach to understanding how people interact with vehicles.
Creating a holistic experience
Ford also is applying motion-capture animation software to improve real-life driving situations before the first prototype is even built. In Ford’s Immersive Virtual Evaluation (iVE) lab, engineers create virtual vehicles complete with exterior views with buildings, intersections and pedestrians.
