Keith Hawthorne Ford

Ford Fusion Earns Autoweek’s Highest Honor: Named Best in Show at North American International Auto Show

2012-01-19T06:26:00.000-08:00

DETROIT, Jan. 12, 2012 – Just days after being revealed to the world, the new Ford Fusion is already bringing home awards. The Autoweek editorial staff has chosen Fusion for its Best in Show award at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS).

The selection is based on one compelling measurement – the car people will remember most five years from now.

“It’s very rare for a midsize sedan to win Best in Show,” said Autoweek Editor Wes Raynal. “I think it’s the first of a lot of awards the Fusion is going to win this year.”

For more information, check out these links: For photos, click here and here. For video of the awards presentation, click here. To read the Autoweek story, click here.

The highest award from Autoweekcomes just one day after the car received the prestigious Detroit Institute of Ophthalmology’s EyesOn Design award at NAIAS.

Fusion brings alive the next generation of more expressive vehicles from Ford. It is the first sedan to offer gasoline, hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions – each expected to deliver top fuel economy and an engaging driving experience.

“I’ve been with the company for 13 years,” said J Mays, Ford chief creative officer, “and I can truly say this is the best car ever to come out of the design and engineering center in Dearborn. We are delighted for the entire global design team, because this really was a global effort.”

Fusion is being revealed in North America in S, SE and the range-topping Titanium series, and points to the next Ford Mondeo for world markets.

Smart, sleek and fresh, the new Fusion is set to change how people think about midsize sedans, elevating the game with jaw-dropping fuel economy and the smart technology and refinement typically found in cars costing thousands more. From its groundbreaking design to its enhanced craftsmanship, Fusion is setting a higher standard.

The all-new Fusion will be on public display – along with other award-winning Ford vehicles – in Detroit’s Cobo Hall through Jan. 22.

The story behind the new Fusion
For more on the new Ford Fusion, check out http://FordFusionStory.com, a special mobile site featuring plenty of unique content including articles, videos and graphics that are easily shareable directly from your smartphone, tablet or computer browser to Facebook, Twitter, Google+ or blogs.

New Ford Fusion Brings More Technology, Expected Triple Crown of Best-in-Class Gas, Hybrid, Plug-In Efficiency

2012-01-12T06:50:00.001-08:00

2013 Ford Fusion
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New Ford Fusion is the first sedan to offer gasoline, hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, each with expected top fuel economy, underscoring Ford’s commitment to give customers the power of choice

With seven must-have technologies, including a Lane Keeping System, adaptive cruise control, active park assist and MyFord Touch^®, the all-new Ford Fusion shows how Ford is delivering features customers truly want and value

Customers can choose from Fusion’s widest-ever portfolio of fuel-efficient powertrains including EcoBoost^™, hybrid and plug-in hybrid engines; automatic and manual transmission offerings; and auto start stop technology

Revealed in North America as the midsize Fusion sedan, this all-new car signals the next-generation Ford Mondeo for world markets

Soundbites: All-New Ford Fusion

DETROIT, Jan. 9, 2012 – Ford’s all-new Fusion brings alive the next generation of more expressive vehicles from Ford and is the first sedan to offer gasoline, hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions – each expected to deliver top fuel economy and an engaging driving experience.

Featuring a sleek silhouette and fresh face, the all-new Fusion is the latest in a series of vehicles from Ford – following the 2011 Fiesta subcompact and 2012 Focus small cars – developed to satisfy customers everywhere who want leading fuel efficiency, helpful technologies and game-changing looks.

“Our vision for Fusion was clear – deliver the very best of what One Ford stands for,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president of Global Product Development. “We brought our global teams together around a blank slate with the charge to develop a midsize car with groundbreaking design and jaw-dropping fuel economy – one that featured technologies to help make our customers safer and better drivers. This car is the result.”

Fusion is revealed in North America in S, SE and range-topping Titanium series and points to the next Ford Mondeo for world markets.

For more information on the importance of the midsize car market, please follow this link:http://youtu.be/7C2ipp5A7gQ.

Triple-crown fuel efficiency

The new Fusion is expected to deliver best-in-class fuel economy across customers’ choice of gasoline, hybrid and plug-in hybrid sub-segments, following through with the commitment by Ford to be the fuel-efficiency leader – or among the leaders – with each new model brought to market.

Fusion brings the broadest selection of fuel-efficient powertrains in the midsize car segment. It offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid alternatives, a pair of EcoBoost^™ four-cylinder engines, a normally aspirated four-cylinder engine, an automatic start stop system to shut off the engine at stationary idle, front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive applications, and a choice between automatic and manually shifted six-speed transmissions.

The 1.6-liter EcoBoost is expected to deliver best-in-class four-cylinder non-hybrid fuel efficiency of 26 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. The 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine – paired with a paddle-shifted six-speed SelectShift Automatic^™ transmission, available 19-inch wheels and tires, and all-wheel drive with the ability to send additional torque to the rear – is the Fusion performance option.

2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
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The Fusion Hybrid – 2010 North American Car of the Year – continues to innovate and evolve with all-new lithium-ion batteries that save weight and generate more power than previous nickel-metal hydride batteries, while raising maximum speed under electric-only power from 47 mph to 62 mph.

Fusion Hybrid also features an all-new 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder gasoline engine, significantly downsized from the previous 2.5-liter unit while maintaining performance standards. This innovative powertrain is anticipated to deliver best-in-class fuel economy of 47 mpg in city driving and 44 mpg on the highway.

Fusion Hybrid fuel economy stands to outperform the 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid by 4 mpg city and 5 mpg highway and the 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid by 12 mpg and 4 mpg, respectively.

2013 Ford Fusion Energi
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Topping the fuel-efficiency ladder is the Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid, aiming to be the most fuel-efficient midsize car in the world. Arriving this fall, Fusion Energi is anticipated to deliver more than 100 MPGe, a mile per gallon equivalency metric for electrified vehicles. This is 8 MPGe more than the Chevrolet Volt and 13 MPGe more than the projected efficiency of the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid model.

The next-generation Fusion 1.6-liter is the first automatic-transmission Ford product offered with an automatic start stop system. It shuts off engine power smoothly when the car is stopped and seamlessly restarts as the driver releases the brake pedal, helping Fusion to reduce fuel consumption and emissions by approximately 3.5 percent.

Fusion looks out for you

The all-new Fusion offers an unprecedented portfolio of driver assistance and convenience technologies based on sensors, cameras and radar that enable the car to see and respond.

Fusion can help drivers maintain proper lane position, adjust vehicle speed to changing traffic conditions, identify suitable parking spaces and help park, even aiding drivers backing out of parking space where visibility is obstructed. Specific technologies include:

Lane Keeping System: This class-exclusive technology consists of three elements to help a driver maintain proper lane position. Using a small, forward-facing camera behind the inside rearview mirror, the system “looks” down the road, monitoring lane lines to determine that the car is on course. The system will alert a driver if drowsiness or erratic lane-keeping is detected. The second element warns a driver with a steering wheel vibration if the Fusion drifts too close to lane markings. Finally, lane keeping aid will actually apply pressure on the steering to help bring the car back into proper lane position

Adaptive cruise control: Using forward-looking radar, this system “looks” down the road when activated, slowing the Fusion when slower traffic is detected ahead. Adaptive cruise control enables collision warning with brake support to help slow the car if the potential of a crash is detected

Active park assist: Employing sensors, this technology can identify a suitable parallel parking space, calculate the trajectory and steer the car to properly position it within the spot. All a driver need do is operate accelerator and brake pedals

Blind Spot Information System (BLIS^®) with cross-traffic alert: Sensors in both Fusion rear quarter-panels are able to detect traffic in a driver’s blind spot, providing both audible and visual warnings if traffic – unseen by the driver – is detected. BLIS technology enables cross-traffic alert, warning the driver of oncoming traffic when backing out of a parking space with obstructed views, such as between two large vans

The power of voice

The all-new Fusion offers the latest iteration of Ford’s award-winning, industry-exclusive SYNC^®communications and entertainment system, which enables voice-activated communication through a driver’s mobile phone and interaction with the car’s audio system.

Fusion also offers the latest version of MyFord Touch^®, allowing a driver to interact with vehicle systems through voice control, a touch screen tap or a conventional button.

Both SYNC and MyFord Touch – powered by SYNC – help reduce the potential for driver distraction through voice-controlled functionality, allowing drivers to keep hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.

Different, by design

“The previous Fusion was an easy purchase for a customer to rationalize,” said Chris Hamilton, chief exterior designer for the next-generation model. “Our design goal for the new car was to give the mainstream sedan buyer a top-drawer visual experience, adding some emotional appeal to an already sensible choice.”

These five elements provided direction for the design team behind the all-new Fusion:

Silhouette innovation: Fusion’s sleek profile sets it apart from the powertrain/cabin/trunk “three-box” designs synonymous with midsize sedans

Perceived efficiency: Fusion character lines sweeping to the rear and thin roof pillars suggest the car is nimble and light on its feet

Refined surface language: Fusion demonstrates that a tasteful, well-executed design does not require add-ons or visual clutter

Technical graphics: Fusion’s functional design elements such as headlamps, LED taillamps and polished exhaust tips communicate enhanced technological capability

New face: Fusion signals the next evolution in Ford global design language for midsize cars and smaller

Inside, the new Fusion offers a sporty, driver-oriented environment with next-generation seating that brings expanded functionality. A higher center console supports the driver-centric theme and yields clever storage for items a driver wants to keep handy.

Additional passenger space was designed-in by moving the instrument panel toward the windshield, contributing to the cabin’s airy, open environment. Thinner, lighter frames support the comfortable next-generation seats trimmed with fabric using recycled sustainable yarns.

Craftsmanship plus dynamics equals feel

Fusion design delivers on the promise of high visual quality, with improved materials, elevated levels of craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Interior surfaces are softer to the touch and interior and exterior gaps are minimized, while extra care has been taken to upholster or cover each edge and every surface a customer can touch. When the trunk lid is opened, for example, a spring-loaded cover automatically conceals the trunk latch hardware.

“The holistic goal of our craftsmanship process is to see that Fusion not only delivers a superior visual experience but also feels like quality to the customer,” said Adrian Whittle, Fusion chief engineer.

Key contributors to how the Fusion feelsare the ride and handling components that maximize vehicle dynamics.

“This really is a driver’s car,” said John Jraiche, program manager. “Fusion is even more fun to drive with specially tuned electric power-assisted steering (EPAS), a MacPherson strut front suspension and an all-new premium-level multilink rear suspension – comparable to Audi and BMW configurations.”

Careful tuning by Ford’s vehicle handling and ride team has yielded a Fusion with a dynamic character that will please a well-seasoned enthusiast while increasing the confidence level of less-experienced drivers.

Fusion interior quiet reaches a new level with acoustic underbody shields and weight-saving sound-absorption material; both minimize road and powertrain noise while boosting aerodynamic efficiency to help save fuel. The all-new model adds content such as a full-perimeter hood seal to be among the midsize sedan segment leaders in giving drivers a quiet ride.

Fusion Hybrid and Fusion Energi models also are equipped with active noise control. This feature uses the audio system to mitigate extraneous road noise while enhancing powertrain sounds.

Strength and safety

Fusion is designed with customer safety in mind. Engineers increased its body strength by 10 percent, using more high-strength steels such as boron, and added dual first-row knee airbags and adaptive front airbags that vent and tether to conform to a specific occupant’s size, position and seatbelt usage.

The Fusion safety team targeted top-of-the-line ratings in each public domain safety benchmark, including National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ratings, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick and top ratings in world markets where the car will be sold.

The most prominent example is Fusion’s front-end architecture, as the same car must face simultaneous – and seemingly conflictive – standards across regions. The car’s front end is equipped to meet head-on and offset barrier standards for North America while still conforming to European standards for pedestrian protection – thanks to hours of computer modeling and 180 validating crash tests.

Fusion will be produced at Ford’s Hermosillo, Mexico, manufacturing facility, soon adding production at AutoAlliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Mich. The car will appear in Ford showrooms in North America and South America later this year. Mondeo will be introduced next year in Asia and Europe.

The story behind the new Fusion

For more on the new Ford Fusion, check out http://FordFusionStory.com, a special mobile site featuring plenty of unique content including articles, videos and graphics that are easily shareable directly from your smartphone, tablet or computer browser to Facebook, Twitter, Google+ or blogs.

Ford Targets 30 Percent Water Reduction Per Vehicle

2012-01-06T09:09:00.001-08:00

New aggressive water strategy calls for global reduction target of 30 percent per vehicle by 2015

Between 2000 and 2010, Ford reduced its global water use by 62 percent, or 10.5 billion gallons; 71 percent in North America

On a per-vehicle basis, global water use decreased by 49 percent between 2000 and 2010; 45 percent in North America

Infographic: What do 10.5 billion gallons of water look like?

DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 30, 2011 – Ford enters 2012 with plans to further reduce the amount of water used to make vehicles and continue showing efficiency is not only inherent in its vehicle lineup, but also in its manufacturing practices.

A new goal calls for Ford to cut the amount of water used to make each vehicle 30 percent globally by 2015, compared with the amount of water used per vehicle in 2009.

Ford is also developing year-over-year efficiency targets as part of its annual environmental business planning process and has established a cross-functional team spanning several divisions to review water usage more holistically.

“Water remains one of our top environmental priorities and our aggressive reduction target helps ensure continued focus on this critical resource,” said Sue Cischke, group vice president, Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering.

Ford’s latest water reduction initiatives are designed to build on the success the company has had with its Global Water Management Initiative that launched in 2000. Between 2000 and 2010, Ford reduced its global water use by 62 percent, or 10.5 billion gallons. That’s the equivalent of how much water 105,000 average American residences use annually, based on figures from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

If Ford meets its goal of reducing the amount of water used by 30 percent between 2009 and 2015, the amount of water used to make a vehicle will have dropped from 9.5 cubic meters in 2000 to approximately 3.5 cubic meters in 2015. One cubic meter is equal to 264.2 gallons of water.

Leading by example

When it comes to water, drought and extensive population growth are just two of many challenges in places such as Mexico’s Sonoran Desert, home to Ford’s Hermosillo Stamping and Assembly Plant. The plant produces the Ford Fusion, Fusion Hybrid and Lincoln MKZ.

Production at Hermosillo Stamping and Assembly Plant doubled between 2000 and 2010. However, water usage at the plant dropped during the same period by 40 percent.

“We applied innovative technology to our Hermosillo plant to reduce water consumption, minimize impact on the community and build vehicles in a more sustainable manner,” said Larry Merritt, manager, Environmental Quality Office.

To reduce water use, a membrane biological reactor – a biological water treatment system – was installed. The complex system is able to make up to 65 percent of the plant’s wastewater suitable for high-quality reuse elsewhere in the facility or for irrigation. The water treatment system also is being used at Ford plants in Chennai, India and Chongqing, China.

More technology, less water

Another approach is to cut the amount of water necessary to complete a task – a strategy afforded by the use of advanced technologies and processes.

“As we invest in new and existing facilities globally, our water strategy prioritizes sustainable manufacturing technologies,” said John Fleming, executive vice president, Global Manufacturing and Labor Affairs. “This disciplined approach allows us to make significant progress in water reduction and other environmental efforts over time.”

For example, several of Ford’s engine plants around the world are using Minimum Quantity Lubrication (MQL) machining, also known as dry-machining.

This technology lubricates the cutting tool with a very small amount of oil sprayed directly on the tip in a finely atomized mist, instead of with a large quantity of coolant/water mixture. The process saves hundreds of thousands of gallons of water and oil per year. By eliminating the coolant/water mixture, dry-machining eliminates the need to treat and dispose of an oily waste stream.

Dry-machining also is delivering significant benefits in energy use, waste production, quality, working conditions and costs. For a typical 450,000-unit line, more than 280,000 gallons of water can be saved annually.

In the U.S., the dry-machining system has been implemented at Ford’s Livonia Transmission Plant, Van Dyke Transmission Plant and Romeo Engine Plant. Ford also has implemented the system at a number of transmission and engine plants in Europe and applications in other plants around the world currently are being considered.

Tracking success

Before Ford launched the Global Water Management Initiative in 2000, many facilities had little ability to even track water usage. The picture is very different today.

When the initiative started, Ford engineers developed software to predict water usage. Another kind of software was developed to track water use at each facility and generate a monthly report so successes and potential opportunities for improvement could be identified.

Also, water reduction actions are built into Ford’s Environmental Operating System (EOS), which provides a standardized, streamlined approach to meeting all environmental requirements, including sustainability objectives and targets within each of Ford’s plants around the world.

EOS allows Ford to track its plants’ performance of fundamental water reduction actions such as leak identification and repair, and cooling tower optimization at every manufacturing site worldwide.

Further, Ford’s progress against its water reduction target will be communicated in the company’s annual sustainability report and through participation in the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) Water Disclosure, which Ford joined in 2010 – the first automaker to do so.

CDP Water Disclosure serves as a central clearinghouse for Ford and other participating companies to report on water usage, water risks and water management plans of company operations and their supply chains.

“We recognize that these environmental issues are increasingly important to our stakeholders, including our customers, investors and business partners,” said Merritt. “Water conservation is integral to Ford’s global sustainability strategy. By reporting our progress, we support positive social change and reduce the environmental impact of our facilities.”

All-New 1967 Mustang Convertible Body Joins Growing Stable of Classic Ford-Licensed Restoration Parts

2011-12-28T07:50:00.000-08:00

The 1967 Mustang convertible body shell is the fourth reproduction body licensed by Ford Motor Co.
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Restorers can now build a “new” 1967 Mustang convertible with an all-new steel body
The ’67 Mustang convertible body is stronger than the original and can be outfitted with Ford’s big-block engines
With nearly 8.5 million built since first debuting in 1964, the Ford Mustang is America’s longest selling four-seat sports car

DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 20, 2011 – The latest addition to the growing stable of classic Mustang bodies – the 1967 convertible – just might be the ultimate stocking stuffer this Christmas for restorers of America’s favorite sports car.

The 1967 convertible body shell, the newest officially licensed Ford Restoration part, is now available to order starting at $15,995. It is the fourth reproduction classic Mustang body available to restorers, joining the ’65 convertible, the ’67 fastback and the ’69 fastback.

To qualify as an official Ford-licensed restoration part, the ’67 body shell has to meet or exceed the fit, finish and quality of the original, said Dennis Mondrach, Ford Restoration Parts licensing manager. “The new ’67 convertible body shell gives restorers a super-solid foundation on which to build their dream pony car.”

Dynacorn International, manufacturer of the ’67 convertible body, worked to not only replicate the original ’67 convertible, but make it better. The body panels, for example, are stamped from modern automotive-grade virgin steel that is slightly thicker than the original, according to Jim Christina, Dynacorn general manager. Then, to further add strength, the panels are assembled using modern welding techniques. There are also newly engineered reinforcements in known stress areas to add strength and rigidity to the body, added Christina.

“These days, the chances are fairly slim of finding a restorable, rust-free ’67 Mustang that has never been wrecked,” said Mondrach. “As the value of classic Mustangs has increased over the years, garages, barns and scrapyards have been picked clean.”

Now, Mustang fans dreaming of restoring a classic ’67 convertible – or building one with a modern powertrain – won’t have to spend time and money getting an original ’67 convertible body into restorable condition. That expensive, time-consuming step can be skipped by starting with the new ’67 convertible body. “Some minor panel adjustment and alignment still has to be done, but the body comes rustproofed and primed and is otherwise ready for painting and assembly,” said Mondrach. More information about the ’67 body shell and all other Ford-licensed restoration parts can be found at www.fordrestorationparts.com.

’67 Mustang: More luxury, more power, more style

After a record-setting production run that saw more than a million Mustangs gallop out of Ford factory gates in just 18 months, the 1967 model was given a major redesign. The move helped keep Mustang ahead of the pack as new competitors from General Motors and Chrysler along with imported sports cars from Great Britain claimed a larger share of the mid-1960s youth market.

No part of the Mustang was overlooked in 1967. The body was widened, the hood lengthened, and the engine bay grew in size to accommodate an array of six engines ranging from a thrifty and peppy 200-cubic-inch inline six-cylinder all the way up to a thundering 390-horsepower 427 that came in the Shelby GT500. This helped launch an entirely new generation of big-block high-horsepower pony cars that fueled the growing muscle car mania.

The ’67 also got all-new sheetmetal, a redesigned grille, new taillights and a nifty option that put turn signals in the hood scoops. On the inside, the more luxurious interior took the Mustang in a new direction. Buyers could opt for a tilt-away steering wheel, a gauge package with a built-in tachometer, brushed aluminum trim on the dash, door panels and shifter console. There was also a roof console with map lights between the sun visors, and the ’67 was the first Mustang with built-in air conditioning that was packaged behind the dash, not under it.

Because more than 90 percent of the parts needed to restore a 1967 Mustang convertible are available new as Ford-licensed reproduction components, the ’67 convertible body can be built to just about any specification that was available when the car was new. Ford’s big-block engines from that era, including the 390, 427 and 428-cubic-inch motors, bolt right in with no modifications necessary. Also, the ’67 body can be used as a basis to build a replica of the Shelby GT350 or GT500 convertibles.

“The ’67 convertible body is supported by thousands of high-quality Ford-licensed restoration parts,” Mondrach said. “So, though it may be possible to build a 1967 Mustang using almost all new parts, we think most customers who buy the ’67 convertible shell will use it for high-performance applications, resto-mod projects or for show cars.”

Ford Offers Top 10 Safe Winter Driving Do’s and Don’ts

2011-12-22T06:40:00.001-08:00

Ford Offers 10 Dos and Don'ts for Winter Driving
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DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 19, 2011 – With winter officially beginning this week, and as drivers prepare for the height of the holiday travel season, Ford offers a Top 10 list of driving safety do’s and don’ts to help drivers and their families stay safe on the roads this season:

10. DO allow a few minutes to brush and scrape your vehicle. Clearing windows is crucial for visibility and removing snow or ice from the top of your car will spare cars behind you from encountering an unexpected snow assault, impairing visibility or even cracking a windshield.

DON’T forget to clean snow and ice off your headlights and taillights as well.

9. DO use winterized windshield wiper fluid to make sure your wiper sprayer doesn’t freeze over or crack, preventing you from washing away dirt and salt.

DON’T try to melt ice from your windshield by pouring hot water on it. Using hot water can crack the windshield.

8. DO wash your car regularly to remove salt and dirt from the roadways.

DON’T let road grime prematurely age the body of your vehicle by neglecting to bathe it.

7. DO maintain at least half a tank of gas to prevent unnecessarily stranding yourself in adverse conditions. To help get the most out of your tank, Ford offers fuel-saving technologies such as its EcoBoost® engines, electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) and hybrid electric vehicles.

DON’T forget to check that all fluids are at proper levels and ensure all tires, including the spare, have the required pressure and tread.

6. DO prepare your car for an emergency. Essential items to keep in the trunk are a blanket to stay warm, proper attire (boots, jacket, hat and gloves) in case you have to be outside for an extended period of time, a shovel, flashlight with fresh batteries and snacks. Keep your cell phone charged to call help if necessary.

DON’T forget the kitty litter or sand, which can be used to provide added traction if your car becomes stuck in the snow.

5. DO remain aware of what’s around you on the road, including checking your blind spots and keeping an eye out for pedestrians or lost reindeer from Santa’s sleigh.

DON’T follow too closely. The general rule is the vehicle ahead should pass a road marker two seconds before you. In slippery conditions, it is recommended to double the amount of space between you and the vehicle in front.

4. DO apply even pressure when braking in slick conditions if your vehicle is equipped with anti-lock brakes. Keep in mind anti-lock brakes do not shorten stopping distance, but they do help you maintain control.

DON’T become overconfident in snowy and slippery road conditions. Always test road conditions with cautious driving when the surface area is wet or icy, particularly on bridges and overpasses.

3. DO turn the steering wheel in the direction of the slide when driving on snowy or icy roads until you gain control.
DON’T apply power or change directions suddenly on snow or ice.

2. DO stay calm if you find yourself stuck in the snow or broken down on the side of the road in adverse conditions.
DON’T leave your car unless available shelter is close by. If you need to run the engine to stay warm, make sure the exhaust pipe isn’t clogged with snow so the interior stays clear of harmful carbon monoxide.

1. DO make sure you are awake and alert behind the wheel. If necessary, take a break and grab a coffee.
DON’T lose track of how many eggnogs you consumed at the holiday party. The most important holiday safe driving tip of all is to refrain from drinking and driving under all circumstances. If you think you will drink, arrange for alternate transportation ahead of time.

Ford Introduces Gas-Free Focus Electric with 100+ MPGe Expected; Nearly a Third of Lineup Now Offers 40-mpg Model

2011-12-15T07:54:00.001-08:00

Ford introduces gasoline-free 2012 Focus Electric, expected to be the first five-passenger electric vehicle with a 100 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe)
Nearly one-third of Ford’s vehicle lines will feature a model with 40 mpg or more in 2012
Focus Electric is the first all-electric vehicle to offer faster charging technology, allowing it to charge in half the time of a Nissan Leaf using 240-volt outlets
C-MAX Hybrid is projected to achieve better fuel economy than Toyota Prius v and C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid projected to achieve better miles per gallon equivalent in electric mode than Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid.With the C-MAX lineup, Ford becomes the largest hybrid transmission producer in North America

Visit the Ford Electrified Vehicles Media Site for more information.

WAYNE, Mich., Dec. 14, 2011 – Ford’s world-class Michigan Assembly Plant is starting production of the 2012 Focus Electric, expected to be the first five-passenger, all-electric car to achieve more than a 100 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) fuel efficiency rating.

Focus Electric also is the first of its kind to feature faster charging, which will halve Nissan Leaf’s time to fully recharge the battery and help drivers to more than double the expected single-charge range in a busy day of driving and recharging.

The car headlines Ford’s transformed lineup, one-third of which will feature a model with 40 mpg or more in 2012, building on the company’s commitment to give fuel-efficiency-minded customers the Power of Choice.

“The Focus Electric is a shining example of the leading fuel economy Ford is offering for each new vehicle,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. “Whether people want a hybrid, plug-in hybrid or full battery-electric vehicle, we have a family of vehicles for them to consider, providing a range of options to best meet their needs and support their driving habits and lifestyles.”

Even with relatively stable gas prices, fuel economy is the top purchase consideration for new vehicles. Nearly 45 percent of customers say fuel economy is their top consideration based on a Ford survey of Americans in 36 cities this fall. Styling is the next consideration, with only 16 percent of study participants saying it is their top purchase driver.

Ford’s rollout of electrified vehicles began in December 2010 with the 2011 Ford Transit Connect Electric – a small commercial van built in collaboration with Azure Dynamics. Ford’s other 40-mpg vehicles include:

Focus SFE
Fiesta SFE
Focus Electric
C-MAX Hybrid
C-MAX Energi
Three vehicles yet to be announced

With 20 years of Ford research and innovation behind the software and hardware technology, the company offers proven engineering and design with Focus Electric. Ford holds approximately 500 patents on the hybrid technology used in the new Focus Electric and its other electrified vehicles.

Faster charging

Focus Electric is designed to offer enough range to cover the majority of daily driving habits of Americans. Its expected 100 MPGe is better than Chevrolet Volt and all electric vehicles with seating for five.

It will be the first electrified vehicle to offer faster charging with 240-volt outlets, which can be installed in customer homes. The battery can be recharged in just more than three hours using a 240-volt charging station, about half the charging time of the 2012 Nissan Leaf.

Faster charging with 240 volts also can extend range as drivers can more quickly recharge between stops – up to 30 miles per charge hour – so they can more than double the vehicle’s range with multiple charging stops during a busy day of driving.

A unique value charging feature, powered by Microsoft, will help owners in the U.S. charge their vehicles at the cheapest utility rates, lowering the cost of ownership.

Elec-tech

Focus Electric introduces new features and technologies – including a unique version of the MyFord Touch^® driver connect system especially for electric vehicles and a smartphone app called MyFord^®Mobile that helps plug-in owners control their vehicles remotely.

The sleek and stylish five-door hatchback is designed to deliver real driving enjoyment as well. The all-electric powertrain and single-speed transmission provide immediate responsiveness and smooth acceleration when the driver steps on the accelerator, up to a top speed of 84 mph.

The Focus Electric is a dynamic driver’s car, sharing the steering, handling and braking feel with the agile, sporty, fuel-powered Focus models upon which it’s based. At the same time, the absence of a gasoline or diesel engine and outstanding aerodynamics lead to a remarkably quiet, comfortable in-car experience.

A limited number of Focus Electrics will first be available in California and the New York/New Jersey areas. Availability of the Focus Electric will expand in 2012 to the remaining 15 launch markets as production ramps up.

The 19 launch markets also include Atlanta; Austin and Houston, Texas; Boston; Chicago; Denver; Detroit; Los Angeles; San Francisco; San Diego; New York; Orlando, Fla.; Phoenix and Tucson, Ariz.; Portland, Ore.; Raleigh-Durham, N.C.; Richmond, Va.; Seattle; and Washington, D.C.

MAXimum efficiency

The Ford C-MAX Hybrid and C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid are Ford’s first compact multi-activity vehicles (MAVs) in North America and offer high mileage and low emissions as well as a distinctive design and flexible interior.

The C-MAX Hybrid and C-MAX Energi use the company’s next-generation powersplit hybrid technology in combination with a lighter, smaller lithium-ion battery system. Both models provide maximum fuel efficiency by pairing the high-voltage lithium-ion battery and electric traction motor with a high-efficiency Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine. This technology enables the gasoline engine to run less than the previous generation.

C-MAX Hybrid is targeted to deliver better fuel economy than the Toyota Prius v. C-MAX Energi is expected to deliver better MPGe in electric mode than the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid and to achieve more than 500 miles of driving range using the battery and engine.

The C-MAX Hybrid and C-MAX Energi, like the Focus Electric, have been engineered and built to deliver engaging driving dynamics and technologies. In addition, C-MAX Energi and Focus Electric will offer MyFord Touch and MyFord Mobile, designed to make charging and driving the vehicle even more efficient, affordable and easier to live with.

Hybrid transmission leader

When C-MAX Hybrid launches, Ford becomes North America’s largest maker of hybrid transmissions.

Ford engineered the transmission and upgraded the controls with a goal of creating the industry’s highest-performing and smoothest-operating hybrid transmission. Among the hybrid transmission’s innovations:

Electric motors capable of operating at higher electric speeds
A new, super-efficient cooling system that enables higher speeds in electric drive
Optimized gear ratios enabling improvement in fuel economy
More precise controls to deliver higher levels of refinement as the powertrain transitions between engine and electric drive
Reduced weight to help increase fuel economy

This is the first hybrid transmission to be designed and built by Ford. Production is moving from a supplier in Japan to the Van Dyke Transmission Plant in Sterling Heights, Mich., which also will assemble battery packs for Ford’s hybrid and electric vehicles.

Building green vehicles cleaner

Ford completely transformed Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Mich., into an environmentally friendly workplace with flexible manufacturing capability.

With the new electrified vehicles and the new Focus ST performance model also coming in 2012, Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant is the first facility in the world capable of building a full array of vehicles – gas-powered, EcoBoost^®, electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid – all on the same production line.

The plant also features one of the largest solar power generation systems in the state as well as several electric vehicle charging stations, allowing the facility to operate on a blend of renewable and conventional electricity.

Renewable energy collected by the solar panels directly feeds the energy-efficient microgrid, helping power the plant. When the plant is inactive, such as holidays, the stored solar energy will provide power during periods of insufficient or inconsistent sunlight. Projected energy cost savings are approximately $160,000 per year.

The plant also has 10 electric vehicle charging stations that recharge the electric switcher trucks that transport parts between adjacent facilities – saving an estimated 86,000 gallons of gas a year.

Plus, 50 percent of the parts arriving for the all-new Focus are packed in cardboard, are carefully collected, sorted and recycled, as is the bubble wrap, the Styrofoam and the water bottles used by employees.

Ford Focus and Boss Mustang are 10Best for 2012

2011-12-08T06:53:00.000-08:00

2012 Ford Focus

DECEMBER 2011
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN ROE

Two boxing terms seem appropriate here: the “rope-a-dope”—Ali’s ploy to sit on the ropes getting beaten for what seemed like a decade, then come out swinging once the other guy was worn out—and “punching above your weight class,” its meaning obvious. The Ford Focus so embraces these two concepts that it ought to be wearing silk shorts. After nearly a decade of waning significance, the Focus comes off the ropes with several unexpected combinations: a sensational ride-handling balance, an admirable power/mpg index, and fantastic materials and utility inside. This is one of the best front-wheel-drive chassis on the road right now, supple yet precise, and it allows the Focus to get around many more expensive, more powerful, more overtly sporty cars on a twisting stretch. It’s as much sports sedan as economy sedan. Still, like most prizefighters, it has its vices. No, not pet lions or a taste for ear meat. The Focus’s, at least, are avoidable: No version should be ordered with the frustrating MyFord Touch infotainment system. And no serious driver should purchase a Focus with the clunky-yet-somehow-squishy PowerShift dual-clutch automatic. We recommend the Focus SE with the slick manual transmission and the SE Sport package. It’s the sweet spot of the Focus lineup and a staggering bit of sweet science.

SPECIFICATIONS

VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, front-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan or 5-door wagon

BASE PRICE: $17,295–$23,495

ENGINE TYPE: DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injection

Displacement: 122 cu in, 1999 cc
Power: 160 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque: 146 lb-ft @ 4450 rpm

TRANSMISSIONS: 5-speed manual, 6-speed dual-clutch automatic

DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 104.3 in
Length: 171.6–178.5 in
Width: 71.8 in Height: 57.7 in
Curb weight: 2950–3050 lb

FUEL ECONOMY:
EPA city/highway: 26–28/36–40 mpg

2012 Ford Mustang GT / Boss 302

DECEMBER 2011
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN ROE

What the Boss 302 did for the Mustang GT is not too dissimilar from what the Stradivari family did for the violin. The basic instrument (the violin, the Mustang GT) was already pretty great. Near perfection. Then someone (a Stradivari, Ford Mustang engineers) managed to create a new standard for all other luthiers and/or muscle-car makers. Which are kind of the same people. Okay, they’re not, but the point is that nothing can touch the Boss at $41,105. With its screaming 7500-rpm, 444-hp, 5.0-liter V-8, it’ll rip off 60 mph in four seconds flat, break the quarter-mile in 12.4 seconds at 117 mph, stop from 70 in 155 feet, and hold the road at 0.95 g. If you are wondering, those numbers are on par with the $20,970-pricier BMW M3 coupe. And don’t forget the Boss 302 Laguna Seca edition, good for one second around its namesake track. Our biggest complaints are that the steering wheel lacks a telescoping feature and that steering feedback is, at best, vague. We got over it, and so can you. Also, as one of us found out, your significant other may have a problem riding around in a car that has “Boss” emblazoned on its side. Then again, if 40 large is too rich, the Stang GT doesn’t disappoint. It’s short 32 horses and lacks the track-ready suspension of the Boss, but it’s an astounding instrument in its own right.

SPECIFICATIONS

VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 2- or 4-passenger, 2-door coupe

BASE PRICE: $30,105–$48,100

ENGINE TYPE: DOHC 32-valve 5.0-liter V-8, aluminum block and heads, port fuel injection

Displacement: 302 cu in, 4951 cc
Power: 412 hp @ 6500 rpm or 444 hp @ 7400 rpm
Torque: 390 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm or 380 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

TRANSMISSIONS: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic with manual shifting mode

DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 107.1 in
Length: 188.1 in
Width: 73.9 in Height: 55.1–55.8 in
Curb weight: 3600–3650 lb

FUEL ECONOMY:
EPA city/highway: 17–18/25–26 mpg

Ford Customers give F-150 with Fuel-saving Technologies High Marks for Quality

2011-12-01T08:34:00.001-08:00

F-150’s fuel-saving EcoBoost engine and electric power assist steering earn high ratings from customers in Ford quality survey.
F-150 also was the highest-ranked full-size pickup this year in J.D. Power and Associates’ Initial Quality Study (IQS), and Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study.
Ford’s EcoBoost technology is helping lead a consumer shift to smaller engines. Ford sold over 13,000 F-150 pickups equipped with EcoBoost engines in both September and October.

DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 28, 2011 – Customers are as happy with the new F-150’s V-6 EcoBoost engine as with their favorite V-8, as Ford proves consumers will move in large numbers to smaller engines.

The F-150’s EcoBoost engine and another fuel-saving technology – electric power assist steering – earned high ratings from customers in Ford’s 2011 U.S. Global Quality Research System, or GQRS, helping to power the F-150 to some of the industry’s strongest independent quality rankings in 2011.

The V-6 EcoBoost-equipped F-150 is achieving customer quality ratings on par with F-150s equipped with the popular 5.0-liter V-8 engine, according to data from GQRS, a quarterly survey conducted for Ford by RDA Group of Bloomfield Hills, Mich. The data was gathered from surveys of more than 1,600 F-150 owners who purchased their trucks between September 2010 and May 2011.

“Ford F-150 customers are very discerning so we are pleased they rate our new EcoBoost technology as highly as V-8 engines that some thought truck customers would never give up,” said Doug Scott, group marketing manager, F-Series trucks. “We believe this is a good sign as we plan to roll out this innovative, powerful and fuel-saving technology to most of our lineup during the next few years.”

Electric power-assisted steering, or EPAS – another Ford truck first – is also giving the F-150 a quality edge, with steering that adapts to changing road conditions and vehicle speed, allowing for more confident handling and improved fuel economy.

Internal customer data show these technologies have reduced warranty claims with 25 percent fewer complaints for vehicle vibration and 33 percent less reported issues with drifting and pulling. This means customers are happier with the new system than the reliable outgoing hydraulic-assisted steering system.

Ford’s internal quality data mirror a strong performance by the F-150 in this year’s J.D. Power and Associates’ IQS and APEAL studies. The initial quality study measures vehicle quality during the first 90 days of ownership, while the APEAL study measures owner satisfaction. The F-150 was the only full-size pickup to earn top awards in both J.D. Power studies.

“The F-150 is a symbol of how Ford is reinventing its lineup to lead the industry in fuel economy and quality,” says Bennie Fowler, Ford Group Vice President, Global Quality and New Model Launch. “We have demonstrated with our EcoBoost engines that we can deliver new technology with great fuel economy improvements and leading quality.”

EcoBoost Boosting F-150 SalesFord’s gasoline turbocharged, direct-injection EcoBoost engine combines the performance of a V-8 with the fuel efficiency of a V-6 to help boost the truck to new heights. The F-150 with EcoBoost is showing there is a “replacement for displacement.”

“This truck gives customers more with less – using advanced technology to deliver both power and efficiency,” said Raj Sarkar, F-150 Marketing Manager. “The EcoBoost trucks are our most capable F-150s and the fact they also offer exceptional fuel efficiency means our customers don’t have to compromise.”

The Ford F-150’s official 2011 EPA ratings certify that 4x2 models equipped with the 365-horsepower 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo engine and six-speed automatic transmission achieve 22 mpg on the highway and 16 mpg in the city. At the same time, the engine produces a class-leading 420 lb.-ft. of torque, helping enable best-in-class maximum towing of 11,300 pounds and maximum payload of
3,060 pounds.

Ford total truck sales were 9.1 percent higher year to date through October than a year ago, with 651,837 trucks sold, representing their highest sales since 2007. Ford F-Series sales totaled 54,410 and 52,511 in September and October, respectively. It is America's number one selling nameplate, totaling 468,899 vehicles through October of this year. This included new monthly records for the EcoBoost-equipped F-150's, with nearly 13,000 trucks sold to retail customers, representing over 40 percent of all F-150 retail sales.

The EcoBoost is so popular with truck buyers that the F-150 is on track to sell 100,000 of the engines in less than a year. Third party accolades for EcoBoost continue to roll in with the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) naming the 2012 F-150 the "Truck of Texas" and the 2012 F-150 Platinum EcoBoost the "Luxury Pickup of Texas".

Improved Handling, Fuel Economy with Electric Power-Assisted Steering

Electric power-assisted steering, or EPAS, enables Pull-Drift Compensation technology, which constantly measures the driver’s steering input, adapts to changing road conditions and helps compensate for slight directional shifts caused by factors such as crowned road surfaces or steady crosswinds. The system’s Active Nibble Compensation feature helps reduce vibrations that transfer through the steering wheel.

The system has been carefully tuned with sophisticated speed mapping to deliver accurate responses at high speed while remaining light and manageable in parking maneuvers. EPAS steering also improves fuel economy by up to 2 percent, compared to conventional hydraulic steering systems, because EPAS only requires power during steering maneuvers instead of constant engine power to drive the hydraulic pump. That also means there’s no hydraulic fluid to be disposed of during maintenance, creating less hazardous waste and resulting in a cost saving for owners.

Seat Fabric in All-New Ford Focus Electric Uses Waste To Create a Better World

2011-11-21T06:50:00.001-08:00

Ford is the first automaker to use REPREVE^® branded fiber inthe seat fabric for the all-new Focus Electric
REPREVE is a polyester fiber made from a hybrid blend of recycled materials including used plastic water bottles and post-industrial waste
Through the use of REPREVE, each all-new Ford Focus Electric keeps 22 plastic bottles out of landfills

NEW YORK, Nov. 17, 2011 – Sitting on empty plastic bottles while driving or riding in a car would be less than ideal. That’s not the case when it comes to the all-new Ford Focus Electric, as it features seat fabric made of recycled material that includes the equivalent of more than 20 plastic bottles per car.

The fiber – called REPREVE^® – is made from a hybrid blend of recycled materials and manufactured by Unifi, Inc. (NYSE: UFI), a global leader in sustainable textile solutions.

Unifi officials say 22 plastic, 16-ounce water bottles are used in the seat fabric of a single Focus Electric. The figure is based on the amount of REPREVE branded fiber used in the production of fabric in each vehicle.

Ford is the first automaker to use REPREVE branded fiber in its seat fabric.

“What better vehicle than the Focus Electric to put seat fabric made of recycled materials?” said Carol Kordich, lead designer of Sustainable Materials for Ford. “Not only does the use of this fabric in Focus Electric help reduce waste, it also helps to offset the need to produce new raw material from crude oil – a process that consumes precious energy and natural resources.”

The 2012 Ford Focus Electric is green in other ways, too. Focus Electric runs on battery power alone, requiring no gasoline and producing zero carbon dioxide emissions.

“We are excited to work with Ford for the introduction of REPREVE into the automotive industry,” said Roger Berrier, president and COO of the Greensboro, N.C.-based Unifi. “As REPREVE continues to expand into new applications and markets, consumers are becoming more aware of companies like Ford and Unifi working together to make a positive impact on the environment.”

In 2009 Ford mandated that fabric suppliers use a minimum of 25 percent recycled content for all 2009 and beyond model year vehicles. Since then, 37 different fabrics meeting the requirements have been developed and incorporated into Ford vehicles.

Kordich said Ford is taking it a step further by mandating that fabric be 100 percent sustainable in vehicles with eco-conscious powertrains like Focus Electric.

REPREVE fits the bill, she said, because it is a combination of post-industrial fiber waste and post-consumer waste, like the plastic water bottles made of polyethylene terephthalate plastic. Using REPREVE also reduces energy consumption by offsetting the need to use newly refined crude oil for production.

“It made sense when we were designing the Focus Electric to keep pushing for even more innovative ways to offer our customers the best, most environmentally sound products without sacrificing quality,” said Kordich.

REPREVE meets all Ford performance requirements, said Kordich, and Ford already is considering other uses across its entire car and truck lineup.

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

Last month, Ford announced it is using 25 20-ounce plastic bottles to make the carpeting in every all-new Ford Escape utility vehicle it builds. It’s the first time Ford has used this type of carpeting in an SUV.

Over the past several years Ford has concentrated on increasing the use of nonmetal recycled and bio-based materials whenever possible, provided these materials are environmentally favorable in the specific application. Examples include soy foam seat cushions and head restraints, wheat straw-filled plastic, castor oil foam in instrument panels, recycled resins for underbody systems, recycled yarns on seat covers and natural-fiber plastic for interior components.

MyFord Mobile App with Value Charging and Plug-to-Plug Routing Honored with CES Best of Innovation Award

2011-11-17T06:29:00.000-08:00

MyFord® Mobile app recognized with International CES Best of Innovation Design and Engineering Award in the software and mobile applications category
With Value Charging powered by Microsoft delivering utility rate data, the MyFord Mobile app will give Focus Electric drivers unique “set it and forget it charging” for lower cost of ownership
MyFord Mobile users can monitor charging, receive alerts, find charge stations, plan trips and do more from their smartphones or computers for an effortless transition to a battery electric vehicle lifestyle

DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 9, 2011 – The MyFord® Mobile app aims to make driving a new Focus Electric from Ford as hassle-free as it is green by adding several industry-first features. The remote vehicle monitoring and management features that are available only through MyFord Mobile will be honored with the 2012 International CES Innovation Design and Engineering Award.
“MyFord Mobile is designed to help Focus Electric drivers maximize their gasoline-free driving in a worry-free, low-effort way,” said Bill Frykman, Product & Business Development, Ford Connected Services. “Drivers can take advantage of information stored off-board to automatically charge their cars at the lowest possible cost and reduce range anxiety with plug-to-plug route planning.”
The MyFord Mobile app harnesses the power of cloud computing through a unique partnership with Microsoft, to keep track of when local utilities switch to lower off-peak charging rates, helping to minimize the cost of ownership of the battery-powered Focus Electric.
Drivers just need to enable a single setting in the app and then plug in their cars without ever worrying about what time the rates change in their area. The network monitors utility rate schedules and automatically transmits a signal to the vehicle through embedded cellular connectivity to start charging at the lowest cost. “With its quick 3 to 4 hour charge time using a 240-volt home charging station installed by Best Buy, the Focus Electric will be ready to go when the owner heads out in the morning,” said Frykman.
The capabilities of the network also enable drivers to plan customized trips using navigation data from Mapquest. Drivers can use the app to find charging stations, estimate whether they can reach a station with the currently available charge, and create multi-stop, plug-to-plug journeys for their daily driving needs.
The vehicle connectivity module and app also provide the driver with alerts when charging is complete or if charging is interrupted due to being unplugged or a power outage. The vehicle interior can be preheated or cooled while still plugged in using power from the grid to maximize driving range.
“We want to give Focus Electric drivers the opportunity to maximize the EV ownership experience,” said Frykman. “We’re honored CES has recognized our efforts to use the latest connectivity and cloud technology to augment the capabilities of the car to promote greener driving.”
The MyFord Mobile app will be available for use on most major smartphone platforms including Android, BlackBerry and iPhone. The same capabilities can also be accessed through a mobile web app for other platforms and a secure Ford website from any Internet-connected computer.

Ford Fund Sends World War II Veterans to Visit World War II Memorial in D.C.

2011-11-10T06:48:00.001-08:00

Ford Motor Company Fund is sponsoring two flights for World War II veterans to visit the National World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The first of two flights will transport Michigan World War II veterans on Nov. 4
Ford has provided more than $6 million in support of veterans since 1974

DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 4, 2011 – One week before Veterans Day, Ford Motor Company Fund is sponsoring a Pride and Honor Flight for more than 30 World War II Michigan veterans to visit the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The veterans, all in their late 80s and 90s, and their guardians will receive a festive send-off on Nov. 4 at Detroit Metropolitan Airport from Ford employees and others. After their arrival in Washington, D.C., the veterans will be greeted by members of Congress and Ford employees at the Memorial, and will receive letters of appreciation from Ford employees, family members and others.

The daylong trip is being organized as part of the Honor Flight Network. A second flight for Kentucky veterans will take place on D-Day on June 6, 2012.

“This is a small gesture in recognition of the service and bravery of these soldiers some 70 years ago,” said Jim Vella, president, Ford Motor Company Fund. “For many, this will be their first visit to the national memorial dedicated in their honor.”

Ford Motor Company recently received the 2011 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award for its assistance to Ford employees in the National Guard and Reserve. It is the highest honor bestowed by the Department of Defense for America’s employers who provide exceptional support to their employees. Ford is one of 15 companies nationwide selected for this award out of more than 4,000 nominations.

Ford Motor Company has a long history of supporting veterans and military personnel. Since 1974, Ford Motor Company and Ford Fund have provided more than $6 million to veterans organizations, including ongoing support to the Disabled American Veterans Transportation Network. With support from Ford Fund, 156 vehicles have been added to the network, which provides free rides for disabled veterans to and from medical appointments.

The Ford Veterans Network Group, one of Ford’s corporately supported Employee Resource Groups, sponsors activities throughout the year in support of its veterans, military personnel and their families. Ford has about 30 U.S. employees actively serving in the military and employs about 700 U.S. Reservists and Guardsmen, along with more than 7,000 U.S. veterans.

Hands-Free and Easy: Power Liftgate on All-New Ford Escape Opens and Closes with a Gentle Kick

2011-11-03T07:02:00.000-07:00

The new Escape, which makes its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show on
Nov. 16, will be the first SUV to use gesture-based technology – similar to that found in video games – to open the rear liftgate. A gentle kicking motion under the center of the rear bumper activates the system and raises the liftgate. The same kicking motion closes the liftgate as well.
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All-new Ford Escape debuting this month at Los Angeles Auto Show

Segment-first hands-free liftgate offered for first time; gentle kicking motion opens and closes liftgate without the need to fumble for a key

Motion-sensing technology is gesture-based and similar to technology used in interactive video games

VIDEO: All-New Escape SUV Features Hands-Free Liftgate

DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 1, 2011 – Ford this month is introducing its all-new Escape SUV featuring a segment-first hands-free power liftgate that opens with a simple kicking gesture under the rear bumper and without the need to fumble for a key.

The new Escape, which makes its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show on Nov. 16, will be the first SUV to use gesture-based technology – similar to that found in video games – to open the rear liftgate. A gentle kicking motion under the center of the rear bumper activates the system and raises the liftgate. The same kicking motion closes the liftgate as well.
“The hands-free power liftgate is yet another innovative Ford technology that makes customers’ lives easier,” said Jason Sprawka, Escape brand manager. “New Escape owners will be able to load their vehicle without ever having to set packages or gear down.”

The hands-free liftgate builds on Ford’s Intelligent Access push-button start. It allows customers to unlock and start their vehicles without having to take the key out of their pocket or purse.

The hands-free liftgate uses two sensors in the rear bumper to detect a person’s shin and kicking motion. The system safeguards against accidental opening by being programmed to open with leg motions – not when an animal runs under the car or when the vehicle hits a bump on the road.

The liftgate height can be programmed or adjusted manually to meet specific customer needs.

About the Escape
The all-new Escape goes on sale next spring, building on the success of Ford’s highly popular small SUV. First introduced in 2000, nearly 2 million Escapes have been sold.
The new Escape is another of Ford’s global vehicles, based on the company’s C-sized platform, which is being used as the basis for more than 2 million Ford vehicles around the world.
In addition to being a technological leader, the new Escape will be a fuel economy leader, too. The vehicle will be offered with three fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines, including 1.6- and 2.0-liter versions of Ford’s popular EcoBoost® engines.
The new 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine is expected to deliver better fuel economy than competitors’ larger four-cylinder engines. The 2.0-liter EcoBoost is expected to offer better fuel economy than competitors’ V6 engines, while delivering unsurpassed performance compared to those larger six-cylinder powertrains.

The Escape will be built at Ford’s Louisville Assembly Plant in Kentucky, where the company has invested $600 million to retool the facility and is in the process of adding 3,100 jobs to launch two new shifts of Escape production by the end of next year.
To see how the hands-free liftgate works, click here.

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

2011-10-27T06:15:00.000-07:00

Based on 180,000 YTD sales, more than 4 million plastic bottles could be diverted from landfills by putting them in the all-new Ford Escape.
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The next Ford Escape uses 25 recycled 20-ounce plastic bottles in the carpeting of each vehicle
That means more than 4 million bottles could be diverted from landfills and instead find a home in the next Ford Escape, based on current sales
The new Ford Escape will be revealed at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show in November

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This attention to detail is something Sinclair enjoys.

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

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

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

Ford, General Mills Come Together to Help America’s Schools, partner in Box Tops for Education® program

2011-10-10T06:25:00.001-07:00

Ford joins General Mills' Box Tops for Education program. Login to download images.

By purchasing a Ford vehicle, ordering a brochure or watching a product video, consumers will be able to raise money for schools of their choice from Ford, thanks to its new tie-up with General Mills’ Box Tops for Education® program
Ford is the first automotive company to partner with General Mills’ Box Tops for Education® program
Ford estimates it will provide more than $1 million dollars to schools during the two-month program through box top redemptions
America’s schools have earned more than $400 million through Box Tops for Education® since the General Mills program started in 1996; Ford has donated more than $100 million to education in the same timeframe

DEARBORN, Mich., Oct. 3, 2011 – Ford Motor Company and General Mills, two companies that have made supporting education a key element of their businesses, are partnering to provide additional funding to schools across the country through the popular Box Tops for Education® (BTFE) program.

Ford, the first automotive company to partner with General Mills on its Box Tops for Education® (BTFE) initiative, today kicks-off a two-month program, which aims to generate $1 million in support for schools throughout the U.S.

“Since this company started, Ford has always looked for ways to support our country’s young people and their education,” said Jim Farley, group vice president, Ford Global Marketing. “We are delighted to be the first automotive company to partner with General Mills on Box Tops for Education because it provides us a unique way to reach and help students across the whole country.”

Ford has taken General Mills’ consumer fundraising effort and evolved it so Ford vehicle owners and shoppers can now easily participate and generate funds to support their local schools. Starting Oct. 3, participants can earn and collect Box Tops for their local school in three new ways. They can request a brochure from the official Ford/BTFE program website at FordDrivesBoxTops.com; watch product videos on the program website; or purchase a Ford vehicle at dealerships during October and November.

“The partnership with Ford is a major step for Box Tops for Education as we continue to offer new ways to activate the program beyond the packaged goods category,” said Mark Addicks, senior vice president and chief marketing officer for General Mills. “Ford’s involvement in the program will allow us to drive needed revenue for schools across the country in a very interactive way with one of America’s most storied brands.”

During the two-month “Ford Drives Box Tops” Sweepstakes, Ford will provide sweepstakes winners with eBoxTops, which will be automatically credited to the school of their choice. Five 10,000 Box Top prizes worth $1,000 and one 200,000 Box Tops prize worth $20,000 will be given to the BTFE-eligible school of the winner’s choice at the end of the Sweepstakes. Schools can use the money in any way they choose.

Filling a Vital Need
As schools struggle to find funding, local communities are turning to corporate programs such Box Tops for Education and Ford’s Drive One 4 UR School program to fill budget gaps.

Through the first nine months of this year alone, Ford has donated $1.8 million to U.S. schools through its Drive Drive One 4 UR School program, with student test-drives skyrocketing more than 600 percent. During the first four years of the program combined, the program generated $5.5 million.

“Our dealers have seen programs like Drive One 4 UR School garner more popularity year after year,” said Jim Herrick, President, Liberty Auto Group. “Now with Box Tops for Education, we have the opportunity to help even more kids in more schools than ever before.”

Ford and Education
Supporting education has been a key tenant of Ford since the company’s inception. Through its history, Ford has created a variety of programs dedicated to improving schools in communities across America, donating more than $100 million to education in just the past 15 years.

The Drive One 4 UR School program was developed as a fun, engaging way to help high schools raise money to support their sports and extracurricular activities. Ford and Lincoln Dealerships partner with local high schools to conduct test-drive fund raising events. For every valid test-drive completed, Ford Motor Company will donate $20 to the participating high school, up to $6,000. Since the program’s inception in 2007, more than $7 million in funds have been donated to high schools nationwide.

The Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services program works with community partners to advance driving safety, education and American heritage and community life. The fund has been in operation for more than 60 years, and in 2010, nearly $19 million in donations were contributed to education and other programs through the Ford Fund.

Ford’s Driving Skills for Life program, supports teen safe driving through its award-winning safe-driving curriculum. Since 2003, more than 341,000 students have been trained in safe-driving practices. The free Driving Skills for Life program was developed by Ford, the Governors Highway Safety Association and a panel of safety experts to educate teens with a combination of ride-and-drive events, educational materials, customized in-school events and an interactive Web site.

About Box Tops for Education®
General Mills’ Box Tops for Education® program offers families easy, everyday ways to earn cash for their designated school. The program started in 1996 and over the past 15 years, more than 90,000 schools have earned over $400 million through Box Tops for Education, including more than $59 million last school year.

eBoxTops are electronic credits that are made directly to the BTFE-eligible school by General Mills, equivalent to 10 cents for each eBoxTop credit. Schools can earn up to $60,000 per year, up to $20,000 respectively from the Clip, Box Tops Marketplace®, and Reading Room program components, to spend on things they need most. For additional information, check out btfe.com.

Go Head to Head with New Ford F-150 Online: Comparison Tool Shows Off Fuel Economy, Capability Leadership

2011-10-04T06:27:00.000-07:00

Ford has launched a new online tool for pickup truck buyers, the Head to Head Pickup Comparison tool for the F-150. Complete with detailed data and interactive graphics in an easy-to-use format, the tool helps customers select the most efficient powertrain to meet their needs by showing how it stacks up against the competition
Located at www.ford.com/f150/experiencef150, the tool lets users select how their truck will be used for work or play and how much payload and trailer tow capacity they need. The tool determines the recommended engine based on their choices, and shows how the engine compares in terms of fuel savings, torque and productivity
Ford F-Series has been America’s best-selling truck for 34 years running. F-150 offers a powertrain lineup that delivers a mix of best-in-class horsepower, torque, capability and fuel economy

DEARBORN, Mich., Sept. 27, 2011 – Ford truck customers now have a new way to confirm they’re making the best possible decision when purchasing an F-150 thanks to the new Head to Head Pickup Comparison tool that in just four simple steps shows the best engine choice for each buyer’s needs.

Located on www.ford.com/f150/experiencef150, the tool is an easy and fun way for customers to find the best F-150 engine to fit their needs and to see how it rates on capability and fuel efficiency, especially compared to the competition. Ford is the first auto manufacturer to feature an interactive tool for competitive comparison.

“We found a way to bring F-150’s key advantages to life in a relevant and engaging manner that tells the customer a story,” said Raj Sarkar, F-150 Marketing manager. “No matter what kind of capability someone is looking for in their truck, they can find a combination that fits their needs and beats the competition.”

Users start off by determining if their truck will be used for work or play, which correlates with a construction site or mountaintop backdrop. They then use a sliding scale of zero to 3,060 pounds to select how much weight they will be hauling. As they do this, items are dropped into the bed of the truck as a depiction of the weight. Depending on if the customer selects work or play, the items include bales of hay, a lawn mower, coolers, barbecue grills, an ATV, a dirt bike or boulders.

The next screen asks the user to select how much weight he or she will be towing, ranging from zero to 11,300 pounds. Similar to payload, items are added to the rear of the truck to represent the weight and include a tractor, boat and race car trailer.

Based on the weights chosen, the customer is shown the recommended engine that is most efficient for his or her needs. It shows a detailed competitive comparison with other engines and even offers a video for a deeper look into each of Ford’s four engine offerings.

The detailed comparison shows the potential fuel savings, with space to enter annual mileage, the current price of gas and how many years the truck will be driven. The tool also features a comparison torque curve chart.

A productivity screen shows off the capability differences over time by calculating how much weight each truck can tow, as well as how much fuel will be consumed. Choosing the amount of days of use for the truck updates the results.

At the end customers can choose to share their findings on Facebook or Twitter, print their results, continue on to build and price their Ford F-150 or check out the Torture Test videos, which show the F-150 EcoBoost® being put through the paces.

The comparison tool also will live on kbb.com in the coming weeks and is verified by Kelley Blue Book, which ensured all information was accurate.

Engine offerings
Ford F-150’s signature class-leading capability and durability is enhanced with class-leading fuel economy and performance. Ford F-150 now offers a powertrain lineup that delivers a mix of best-in-class horsepower, torque, capability and fuel economy.

3.7-liter four-valve Ti-VCT V6

Best-in-class 302 horsepower at 6,500 rpm vs. V6 competitors
Unsurpassed 278 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm vs. V6 competitors
Best-in-class 17 mpg city and best-in-class 23 mpg highway (4x2)
Best-in-class 6,100 pounds maximum trailer tow vs. V6 competitors

5.0-liter four-valve dual-overhead-camshaft Ti-VCT V8

Best-in-class 360 horsepower at 5,500 rpm vs. standard V8 competitors
Best-in-class 380 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,250 rpm vs. standard V8 competitors
21 mpg highway, unsurpassed 15 mpg city (4x2)
Best-in-class 10,000 pounds maximum trailer tow vs. standard V8 competitors

6.2-liter two-valve single-overhead-camshaft V8

Best-in-class 411 horsepower at 5,500 rpm vs. all competitors
Best-in-class 434 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm vs. all competitors
13 mpg city, 18 mpg highway (4x2)
Best-in-class 11,300 pounds maximum trailer tow vs. all competitors

3.5-liter Ti-VCT EcoBoost

365 horsepower at 5,000 rpm on regular fuel
Best-in-class 420 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,500 rpm vs. premium V8 competitors
90 percent peak torque available from 1,700 rpm to 5,000 rpm
Best-in-class 11,300 pounds maximum trailer tow vs. all competitors
Best-in-class 3,060 pounds payload vs. all competitors