“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
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Posts Tagged ‘NAIAS’
Is It Getting Hot in Here?
Tuesday, January 12th, 2010Tags: 5.0-litre, Ford, Ford Motor Company, Ford Mustang, NAIAS, Nelly
Posted in 2011 Mustang GT - text, Ford Mustang - text | No Comments »
Who’s Getting Charged Up About Electric Cars?
Tuesday, January 12th, 2010
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.
Learn more about Ford’s investment announcement.
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
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.
Learn more about Ford’s investment announcement.
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
Tags: electric vehicle, Ford, Ford Motor Company, hybrid, Michigan, NAIAS, New Jobs, plug-in hybrid
Posted in Ford and the Environment - text | No Comments »
Sweep!
Tuesday, January 12th, 2010
Thank you, thank you, very much.
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.
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.
Tags: Car of the Year, Ford, Ford Fusion, Ford Motor Company, NAIAS, Transit Connect, Truck of the Year
Posted in Ford Cars - text, Ford Fusion - text, Ford Trucks - text, Ford and the Environment - text | No Comments »
What’s Powerful, Luxurious and Sophisticated?
Tuesday, January 12th, 2010
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:
• Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT)
• Aggressive Deceleration Fuel Shut-Off; torque-based deceleration control
• Battery management: “Smart Charging”
• Engine hardware improvements
Learn more about 2011 Lincoln MKX engine improvements.
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
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:
• Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT)
• Aggressive Deceleration Fuel Shut-Off; torque-based deceleration control
• Battery management: “Smart Charging”
• Engine hardware improvements
Learn more about 2011 Lincoln MKX engine improvements.
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
Tags: 2011, 2011MKX, 3.7-liter Duratec V-6, Ford, Fordmotorcompany, Lincoln, MKX, MyLincoln, MyLincoln Touch, NAIAS, SelectShift Automatic, SelectShift Automatic transmission, SYNC, Ti-VCT
Posted in Lincoln - text | No Comments »
Just Say ‘Yes’ to No Compromise Luxury
Tuesday, January 12th, 2010
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.
Learn more about the 2011 Lincoln MKX.
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
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.
Learn more about the 2011 Lincoln MKX.
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
Tags: 2011, 2011MKX, AdvanceTrac, Blind Spot Mirrors, Cross-Traffic Alert, easy-fuel, Ford, Fordmotorcompany, Lincoln, MKX, MyKey, MyLincoln, MyLincoln Touch, NAIAS, roll stability control, RSC, SecuriCode, SYNC
Posted in Lincoln - text | No Comments »
My Goodness, What a Touching Display
Tuesday, January 12th, 2010
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
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
Tags: 2011, 2011MKX, Ford, Fordmotorcompany, Lincoln, MKX, MyLincoln, MyLincoln Touch, NAIAS, SYNC
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Picture Your Favorite Technologies in Sharp Focus
Monday, January 11th, 2010
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:
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
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
Tags: Ford, Ford Focus, Ford Motor Company, global C-car, MyFord, NAIAS, SYNC, Technology
Posted in Ford Cars - text, Ford Focus - text snippets | No Comments »
How to Get Focused on Fuel Economy
Monday, January 11th, 2010
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.
Learn more about the Ford Focus’s fuel economy.
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
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.
Learn more about the Ford Focus’s fuel economy.
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
Tags: Ford, Ford Focus, Ford Motor Company, fuel economy, NAIAS
Posted in Ford Cars - text, Ford Focus - text snippets | No Comments »
Isn’t Time You Got Into Focus?
Monday, January 11th, 2010
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.
Learn more about the Ford Focus.
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
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.
Learn more about the Ford Focus.
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
Tags: Ford, Ford Focus, Ford Motor Company, fuel economy, NAIAS, Technology
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TAURUS NAMED “MOST SIGNIFICANT” BY AUTOWEEK
Tuesday, February 10th, 2009The new 2010 Taurus earned the “Most Significant” at NAIAS.
With its impressive class-leading array of technologies to add convenience, connectivity and safety for our customers, the editorial team at AutoWeek named Ford Taurus “Most Significant” of all vehicles displayed at the January 2009 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.
In addition, the editors also awarded Ford Shelby GT500 as “Most Fun.” Coming just two days after the 2009 Ford F-150 was named “North American Truck of the Year,” the AutoWeek auto show awards recognize Ford’s product-driven momentum.
The new 2010 Ford Taurus leads a wave of new vehicle introductions, demonstrating Ford’s commitment to providing customers expressively designed, technically advanced and fun-to-drive vehicles at a good value.
Quotes
“This important recognition from the editors at AutoWeek affirms that our new product plans are taking hold, and that Ford is building more products people really want and discerning journalists value. We want to thank AutoWeek for these distinctions – and for recognizing how hard our product teams have been working to further strengthen Ford’s product lineup.”
- Mark Fields, Ford’s President of The Americas
“We’re delighted that the editors at AutoWeek see the new Ford Taurus, and its unique blend of style, substance, class-leading highway fuel economy and meaningful technologies as highly significant.”
- Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s Group Vice President for Global Product Development
"It looks new… and I think that is important to be Taurus. Each one of the famous Taurus's had it's own distinct identity all the way back from the very original through the early 90's they had a distinct identity of their own and that is what I think this one has."
- Peter Reyes, Ford Chief Engineer
Tags: 2010 Ford Taurus, AutoWeek, Ford Taurus, NAIAS, North American International Automotive Show
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2009 FORD F-150: NORTH AMERICAN TRUCK OF THE YEAR
Tuesday, February 3rd, 2009The all-new 2009 Ford F-150 is named North American Truck of the Year at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS)
The North American Truck of the Year award recognizes vehicles based on factors including innovation, design, safety, handling, driver satisfaction and value for the dollar. Fifty 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.
The 2009 F-150 is new inside and out. The Ford truck team adopted a holistic, 360-degree approach to revamping the vehicle – from its segment-first features to the tough new exterior highlighted by a dramatic three-bar grille and more spacious, flexible and refined interior, to the unparalleled choice of cab styles and trim levels.
The prestigious award comes hot on the heels of the 2009 F-150 being named 2009 Motor Trend Truck of the Year™ and the "Truck of Texas" by the Texas Auto Writers Association in addition to a number of other awards and accolades.
Quotes
"Winning 2009 North America Truck of the Year honors is a special distinction because it acknowledges the team's efforts to push harder and deliver even more for customers – including quality, safety leadership, unsurpassed fuel economy and smart features aimed at further improving their productivity. Ultimately, though, this award is a nod to true truck customers, who have inspired us to deliver America's favorite pickup for 32 straight years."
- Mark Fields, Ford's President of The Americas
Tags: 2009 Ford F-150, Ford F-150, Ford trucks, NAIAS, North American International Auto Show, North American Truck of the Year
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2010 Ford TAURUS AT THE NAIAS DETRIOT AUTO SHOW
Thursday, January 22nd, 2009
The all-new 2010 Ford Taurus makes its debut at the North American International Auto Show.
Tags: 2010 Ford Taurus, NAIAS
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GOV. GRANHOLM RIDES BATTERY ELECTRIC VEHICLE
Wednesday, January 14th, 2009Governor Granholm Takes a Ride in Ford Battery Electric Vehicle
When Michigan’s Gov. Jennifer Granholm arrived at Cobo Conference and Exhibition Center in Detroit for a tour of the 2009 North American International Auto Show it was in a battery electric Ford Focus demonstration vehicle driven by Nancy Gioia, director, Sustainable Mobility Technologies and Hybrid Vehicle Programs.
“At first, she was surprised that it wasn’t merely a concept car, but actually a road-ready demonstrator of battery electric vehicle technology,” Gioia says. “I think she was wowed by how it’s quiet, smooth and fun to drive – that it’s a no compromise driving experience.”
Gioia told the governor about Ford Motor Company’s aggressive plan to bring a family of electric vehicles to the North American market by 2012. Ford will introduce four new vehicles in four years including a new battery electric commercial van in 2010, a new battery electric small car in 2011 to be developed jointly with Magna International, a next-generation hybrid vehicle, and a plug-in hybrid by 2012.
Granholm was reportedly impressed that Ford’s battery-powered small car planned for 2011 has a targeted range of up to 100 miles on a single charge, without using a single drop of gasoline.
Gioia and Granholm also discussed what Ford’s plan could mean for Michigan in terms of technology development, engineering and potentially manufacturing both on the vehicle level and component level.
“She’s very excited that Ford is leading the way in the electrification of vehicles,” Gioia says. “She also kidded me that I drive too fast, but I wanted to be sure she knew how peppy this electric vehicle is.”
Tags: battery electric vehicle, BEV, Focus, NAIAS
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F-150 WINS AUTOWEEK AWARD
Wednesday, January 23rd, 2008Preeminent car magazine chooses the new 2009 Ford F-150 as “most significant” vehicle of NAIAS
The editors of AutoWeek Magazine have picked the new 2009 Ford F-150 as the “Most Significant” vehicle of this year’s North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) at their annual Design Forum held in Detroit Jan. 16.
AutoWeek reported: “From the Explorer America [concept]– a unibody-constructed, friendlier sport/utility vehicle – to the Verve, the best-looking small car Ford has built for America in generations, the F-150 is “Most Significant” for what it means not only to the company but to the American ethic. The F-150 is ‘Ford Tough’ – and so was this decision among quite an impressive lineup of products Ford has on display."
The new 2009 Ford F-150 offers the most capability, most ‘smart’ features and most choice in the full-size pickup market. The new 2009 F-150 is new from the inside and out – from its segment-first features, tough new exterior, more spacious, flexible and refined interior and unparalleled choice of cab styles and trim levels, including a new Platinum series that redefines tough truck luxury. The addition of Platinum brings Ford to a total of 35 unique F-150 configurations.
The new 2009 Ford F-150 expands its capability by adding more usable interior space to the SuperCrew model, a stronger, lighter frame and more standard safety features than previous models.
The F-Series, America's best-selling truck line for 31 years, turns 60 this year, during which time Ford has built more than 33 million F-Series pickups. Today, Ford has more F-Series pickups on the road with 250,000 miles on them than anyone else in the truck business.
Tags: 2009 Ford F-150, AutoWeek, AutoWeek Magazine, F-Series, Ford Explorer concept, Ford Motor Company, Ford trucks, NAIAS, New 2009 Ford F-150, North American International Automotive Show, Verve
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As diesel fans around the world anticipate National Biodiesel Day on March 18, the birthday of the famed engine inventor, Rudolf Diesel, Ford readies for customers the new 2011 Super Duty and its all-new 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 turbocharged diesel engine with unsurpassed biodiesel compatibility.
Ford is adding an exciting new element to its sponsorship of the hit television series “American Idol,” giving the top 12 Idols a unique opportunity to work with Ford designers and create their own personalized 2011 Ford Fiesta.
Hello from Cologne to all the other Mustangs in foreign countries !
I went to Germany in the year 2006 and was sold to a guy who has been working for Ford for more than
23 years!! After a Ford Taunus in 1981, several Ford Escorts and several Ford Fiestas in the following years I am now his absolute favorite. He loves me and takes me to lots of Ford Mustang Reunions here in Germany. Meanwhile I have several Pony friends here :-)))
Good Luck to all of you !
Ford vehicles are still durable and easy to handle, but the women behind the wheel bear little resemblance to the hothouse flower of yesteryear.
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