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2009 FORD F-150: NORTH AMERICAN TRUCK OF THE YEAR · The all-new Ford F-150 is named North American Truck of the Year at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) · Since its launch in October, 2008, the all-new F-150 has earned many awards and accolades, including 2009 Motor Trend Truck of the Year™ · The 2009 F-150 also America’s safest full-size pickup DETROIT, Jan. 11, 2009 – The all-new 2009 Ford F-150, America’s best-selling vehicle, was named North American Truck of the Year today at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. 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. “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,” said Mark Fields, Ford’s president of The Americas. “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.” 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 improvements are just as dramatic beneath the sheet metal. They include a new high-strength, lighter-weight chassis that delivers even more horsepower, unsurpassed fuel economy and class-leading towing and payload capacity. “We know how important the F-150 is to our customers and their livelihood,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president of Global Product Development. “That’s why our team has been working so hard to deliver the most capability, improve fuel economy and ensure that this F-150 lives up to the durability and reliability expected of a ‘Built Ford Tough’ truck. “Ford has spent years listening to our truck customers, and as the truck leader, we take our responsibility to deliver the right tools for them very seriously – and winning North American Truck of the Year is yet another assurance that the team absolutely delivered the best full-size pickup in America,” Kuzak continued. For the 32nd year in a row, Ford’s award-winning F-Series is America’s best-selling truck with 2008 sales of 515,513. For the 27th year in a row, F-Series is once again America’s best-selling vehicle of any type – car, crossover, SUV, truck or van. Last week, the F-150 earned the title of America’s safest full-size pickup when it received 5-star frontal- and 5-star side-impact crash test ratings, the highest possible scores from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Earlier last fall, the truck received the “Top Safety Pick” award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The new 2009 F-150 also sports an array of smart technologies – from industry-first SYNC to Ford Work Solutions. SYNC provides hands-free, in-car communication. Ford Work Solutions is an innovative suite of options, including an in-dash computer with Internet access, Tool Link to track tools, Crew Chief technology to dispatch workers and reduce vehicle operating costs and Cable Lock to improve security of tools and equipment. The new F-150 delivers class-leading towing capability of 11,300 pounds and hauling capacity of 3,030 pounds – a combination no other competitor can match. For 2009, F-150 also has improved its fuel economy by an average of 8 percent across the entire lineup, thanks to a wide range engineering enhancements. The fuel economy gains reach as high as 12 percent versus the prior model year on F-150 models equipped with the high-volume, three-valve, 5.4-liter V-8 engine. Plus, the F-150’s SFE package – which is available on highest-volume XL and XLT series – delivers unsurpassed fuel economy of 15 mpg city and 21 mpg highway. The new 2009 F-150, which is built at Ford’s Dearborn (Mich.) Truck Plant and Kansas City Assembly Plant, has also won the following awards and accolades: · America’s safest full-size pickup with 5-star frontal and 5-star side-impact crash-test ratings, the highest possible scores, in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests. · Motor Trend 2009 Truck of the Year Award™ · Top honors as “Truck of Texas” as well as “Best Luxury Pickup” for the 2009 F-150 King Ranch from Texas Auto Writers Association · Finalist 2009 North American Truck of the Year (with 2009 Ford Flex for Car of the Year) · Playboy’s 2009 Best Pickup · 2009 Best Redesigned Vehicle from Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com · “Best Overall Half-Ton Pickup” from PickupTrucks.com · “Automotive Excellence” award in the Workhorse Category from Popular Mechanics · Detroit Free Press Truck of the Year · Detroit News Truck of the Year · “Top Safety Pick” from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for its standard safety technology: Safety Canopy side curtain air bags and AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control · “Residual Value” award from Automotive Leasing Guide (ALG) for retaining the highest percentage of its original price among 2009 full-size light duty pickups at the end of a conventional three-year lease, based on ALG projections · Motor Trend's Truck Trend Top 5 Trucks from Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) for 2009 Ford F-150 Heavy Duty DeWalt Contractor Concept · “Accessory-Friendly Truck” Design Award from SEMA · F-Series is best selling vehicle in America for 27 consecutive years; best-selling truck for 32 consecutive years
July 29, 2008
Top 10 Ford Motor Company Quality Success Stories
Ford continues to make great strides toward achieving its goal of best-in-class quality. The following ten examples show some of the successes already achieved along the way.
Now shoulder-to-shoulder with industry leaders in initial quality – The quality of Ford brand vehicles soared to the top of the charts equaling that of Toyota and Honda, according to the second quarter 2008 U.S. Global Quality Research System (GQRS) study conducted by RDA Group of Bloomfield Hills, Mich. The study showed Ford brand improved 6.5 percent versus last year with a combined average of 1343 things-gone-wrong (TGW) per 1,000 vehicles during the first three months of ownership. This performance is statistically equivalent at the 95% confidence level to the TGW levels of Honda and Toyota.
Virtual technology expertise worth sharing – For nearly a decade, Ford has been using its industry-leading digital ergonomics research to help line operators do their jobs efficiently and issue-free. Led by a world-renowned ergonomics expert, the team optimizes every movement so employees can build car after car and avoid fatigue and injury. This upfront virtual technology greatly reduces issues at launch and relates directly to quality. The company shares its findings on how to reduce repetitive stress and other injuries with the other American automakers and University of Michigan researchers.
Best-in-class paint performance – According to GQRS studies, Ford is tied in first place for fewer chips and scratches and more long-term durability. Its three-part wet application process not only provides better long-term resistance to chips and scratches than water-borne paint, it reduces the plant shop’s CO2 emissions by 15 percent. An eco-friendly anti-corrosion system helps prevent rust while cutting paint shop water use nearly in half and reducing the production of sludge by 90 percent. Also, Ford is the first automaker to implement a technology called High-Gloss Mold-in-Color. The 2008 Ford Super Duty’s wheel lip molding is injection-molded with the high-gloss metallic color built right in – no primer or paint required. This increases long-term appearance and durability, as well as being more environmentally friendly than priming and painting those parts.
Chart-topping electrical functions – Thanks in part to stringent electronics testing during the predelivery process, Ford topped the charts in GQRS studies for electrical functions such as the radios. Hundreds of end-of-line evaluations take place and are tracked through Ford’s Quality Leadership System (QLS), which gives anyone in the plant the ability to flag a vehicle as having an open concern and keeps that vehicle from leaving the plant until it’s been fixed.
Quality testing goes green – As the 52-year-old high-speed test track at Ford’s Michigan Proving Grounds undergoes its $13 million reconstruction, it’s reusing almost every bit of existing material, preventing 130,000 tons of debris from going to local landfills. The track is critical to Ford’s quality assurance process, as it’s used for a wide range of vehicle testing.
Earning third-party accolades – In May, two separate research firms confirmed that Ford continues to make great strides in quality. San Diego-based researcher Strategic Vision put Ford neck-and-neck with Toyota for total quality, and ahead of everyone else. The firm said the two automakers were tied for topping the most segments on its Total Quality Index with three vehicles each. Winning Ford vehicles are Ford Edge, Ford Mustang Convertible and Ford F-250/350, which was also a segment winner in 2007. Meanwhile, noted automotive consulting firm AutoPacific released the results of its 2008 model year vehicle satisfaction research, putting Ford on top or tied for first in six Vehicle Satisfaction Award categories. Vehicles earning accolades were Ford Taurus, Mercury Milan, Lincoln Mark LT, Ford Explorer Sport Trac, Ford Explorer and Ford Edge.
Ford Flex boasts ultra-quiet ride – Ford Motor Company’s wind noise went from second-worst in the industry in 2003 to best in the bunch for 2007 based on TGW according to GQRS results. The all-new 2009 Ford Flex is no exception. In Ford’s wind tunnel tests, it delivered a quieter ride than competitors including the Acura MDX, Toyota Highlander and GMC Acadia, good news for customers who equate quietness with quality.
J.D. Power says Ford Focus is most improved – The 2008 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study by J.D. Power and Associates showed that Focus gained 88 index points over last year. The Ford Escape also earned a spot among the top 10 most improved vehicles in the industry. In addition, five Ford Motor Company vehicles received second- or third-place honors in their segments: Ford Explorer Sport Trac, Mazda CX7, Mazda CX9, Ford Focus and Lincoln Navigator.
Long-term durability improves – Ford brand improved at a rate of 3 percent versus the industry average of 1 percent according to the 2008 GQRS three-years-in-service report. The survey looked at 2005 model year vehicles (compared to 2004 model year in 2007). The top non-luxury brands were Toyota, Mercury, Honda and Ford, with a gap of only 0.6 problems per vehicle difference from Toyota to Ford. For the fifth year in a row, Mercury did better than Honda in this durability study.
Ford brand makes significant quality gains – According to the J.D. Power and Associates 2008 Initial Quality Study, Ford vehicles increased in quality at a faster rate than the industry average. Continuing its five-year upward trend, Ford brand improved by eight points over last year’s study, bettering the industry’s seven-point improvement. Ford Motor Company vehicles received 10 honors, including three with the highest rankings in their respective segments: Lincoln Navigator, Mazda MX5 Miata and Ford E-Series.
June 4, 2008
Ford brand quality improves faster than industry average IN 2008 J.D. Power and Associates IQS
- Ford brand quality improves at a rate faster than the industry average.
- Ford Motor Company wins 10 vehicle honors, including three top segment performers.
- Ford brand has shown continuous improvement in this study since 2004.
- Lincoln Navigator, large premium multi-activity vehicle segment
- Ford E-Series, van segment
- Mazda MX5 Miata, compact sporty car segment
- Ford Ranger, compact pickup segment
- Mercury Sable, large car segment
- Ford Fusion, mid-size car segment
- Ford Escape, compact MAV segment
- Mercury Grand Marquis, large car segment
- Volvo S40, entry premium vehicle segment
- Volvo C70, compact premium sporty segment
April 7, 2008
New Quality Study Shows Ford is Second to None
- Ford catches Honda in initial quality, putting it in statistical tie at the top with Toyota and Honda.
- Ford's vehicle quality improved 8 percent versus last year.
- Every new car and truck, including the 2008 Ford Focus, launched with improved quality versus its predecessor.
DEARBORN, April 7, 2008 – When it comes to initial vehicle quality, no automaker performs better than Ford.
The quality of Ford, Lincoln and Mercury brand vehicles soared to the top of the charts equaling that of Toyota and Honda, according to the first quarter 2008 U.S. Global Quality Research System (GQRS) study conducted by RDA Group of Bloomfield Hills, Mich.
The study shows Ford's domestic brands improved 8 percent versus last year with a combined average of 1,284 things-gone-wrong (TGW) per 1,000 vehicles during the first three months of ownership. This performance is statistically equivalent to the 1,250 TGW level of Honda and Toyota.
"Last year we tied with Toyota, and this year our quality performance is as good as industry-leading Honda's too," said Mark Fields, Ford's president of The Americas. "Our world-class quality is one of the most important aspects of our turnaround in North America. This consistently strong quality improvement should offer today's customer renewed confidence, setting the stage for important new products like Ford Flex, which is launching this summer."
Ford's dramatically improved vehicle quality will be highlighted in a sweeping new marketing campaign called "Drive one" that officially debuts Tuesday. The campaign tells the story behind Ford's rise to the top of the industry in initial vehicle quality as well as underscoring safety, smart technology and improved fuel efficiency.
The company earned best-in-class honors in two important engineering functions: interiors, which includes such areas as trim, seats and instrument panel appearance; and electrical, which includes entertainment systems. Ford tied for best-in-class in two other functions, paint and vehicle engineering, which includes such areas as ride and handling and cabin quietness.
Additionally, Ford's domestic brands pushed customer satisfaction up one point to 77 percent.
"There is an unprecedented level of teamwork at Ford. Everyone from the top floor to the plant floor is working together to deliver the highest quality vehicles for our customers," said Bennie Fowler, Ford's group vice president of Global Quality. "We are extremely proud to be among the industry's quality leaders. But that's not why we're in the game. We want sole possession of first place, and we will keep working to earn it."
A total for 15 Ford, Lincoln, Mercury vehicles are ranked in the top three of their respective segments for either TGW performance, customer satisfaction or both.
The following models are segment leaders:
- Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 – TGW for sports car
- Ford Taurus – customer satisfaction for large car
- Ford Sport Trac – customer satisfaction for medium traditional utility
- Mercury Milan – TGW for midsize car
- Lincoln Navigator – TGW and customer satisfaction for large premium utility
The new 2008 Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable both recorded quality levels that equate to less than one problem per vehicle, as did the Volvo S80 (947). The Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ were close, with 1,030 TGW and 1065 TGW, respectively.
The Taurus also led a string of impressive new vehicles launched in 2007. Taurus showed a 33 percent quality improvement compared with the product it replaced. The new Ford Escape improved 16 percent over the out-going model, and the new Ford Focus improved 13 percent.
In fact, 36 of 40 Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda nameplates improved this year versus 2007.
The 2008 first quarter U.S. GQRS study, which RDA Group conducts for Ford, asks customers of all major makes and models to comment on troubles and rate their overall satisfaction with their three-month-old vehicles. The survey includes vehicles registered from September 2007 through November 2007.
February 26, 2008
2009 Ford E-series: Interior upgrades, more ‘smart’ features for America’s best-selling full-size van
- Ford’s class-leading E-Series full-size van delivers even more functionality for 2009, thanks to class-leading convenience features including integrated navigation system and SIRIUS Travel Link™, plus a redesigned instrument panel that includes four new upfitter switches.
- Ford Work Solutions, a collection of affordable ‘smart’ technologies – including four industry-first features – will provide E-Series customers connectivity, flexibility and security to better run key aspects of their business – from their van, cutaway or wagon, even on the job site.
- Ford is the commercial vehicle leader in the U.S. with 40 percent share of the total commercial vehicle market and has been the full-size van leader with the Ford E-Series for 29 years running. Manufactured at Ford's Ohio Assembly Plant in Avon Lake, Ohio, 2009 Ford E-Series will be available in August.
ATLANTA, Feb. 26, 2008 – Ford E-Series – America’s top selling full-size van for 29 years running – delivers an improved interior for 2009, along with new tools designed to help customers manage their fleets more efficiently, track and secure tools and better serve customers.
E-Series updates include a redesigned instrument panel and console, door trim panels with more storage, built-in auxiliary switches users can customize, wider-opening rear doors, more comfortable seats, a first-in-class factory-installed navigation system and Ford Work Solutions – a collection of technologies aimed at making business and fleet owners more productive and successful.
“Continuously listening to our customers and delivering solutions to meet their unique vehicle and business needs are the driving forces behind Ford’s commercial vehicle leadership,” said Kevin Koswick, director, Ford North American Fleet, Lease and Remarketing Operations.
“Today, more E-Series are on the road with 250,000 miles or more than vans from any other manufacturer. Smart customers know that E-Series deliver the durability, cargo capacity, flexibility and technologies that make these the most capable full-size vans on the market.”
‘Built Ford Tough’ E-Series Delivers More
Understanding E-Series is the van of choice for a range of customers – from small business owners to custom upfitters to larger commercial fleet operators – Ford is offering new features and technologies to make work and travel more productive and convenient. They include:
·Four industry-exclusive Ford Work Solutions innovations:
·An in-dash computer developed with Magneti Marelli and powered by Microsoft Auto that provides full high-speed Internet access via the Sprint Mobile Broadband Network and navigation by Garmin. It’s the first broadband-capable in-dash computer in production and features available wireless accessories including a mouse and printer. This system allows customers to print invoices and access documents stored on their home or office computer networks – right on the job site.
- A navigation system integrated into the instrument panel with a 6.5-inch touch screen display. This is available for the first time in E-Series along with SIRIUS satellite radio.
- SIRIUS Travel Link, an industry-exclusive feature. When coupled with navigation, this system provides a collection of data services including real-time local traffic, coast-to-coast weather conditions and fuel price information for more than 120,000 gas stations.
- Reverse Camera System, which mounts a small camera at the rear of the vehicle. It’s activated when the van is shifted into reverse, giving the driver a clear view behind the vehicle. The video image is displayed in the navigation screen on vans equipped with that option or in the self-dimming rearview mirror on vans without the navigation system. The screen image includes an industry-first centerline and colored guides, which provide the driver a better perspective of the vehicle’s center point and periphery.
1) Tool Link, a Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) asset tracking system developed with DEWALT, the industry leader in professional power tools, and ThingMagic, the industry expert on embedded RFID technology. This enables customers to maintain a detailed real-time inventory of the tools or equipment stored in the vehicle.
2) Crew Chief, a fleet telematics and diagnostics system, which allows small fleet owners to efficiently manage their vehicles, quickly dispatch workers to job sites and keep detailed vehicle maintenance records.
3) Cable Lock security system developed in partnership with Master Lock®, the industry-leading lock manufacturer, to secure large tools or equipment in the cargo area of E-Series vans and wagons.
All four Ford Work Solutions technologies also will be available this fall on the new 2009 Ford F-150 XL, STX, XLT and FX4 trucks; F-Series Super Duty XL, XLT and FX4 pickup trucks. Transit Connect vans join the lineup in mid-2009.
Comfort and Convenience Built Into the Interior
For 2009, the E-Series features a tougher, more functional interior that better reflects its exterior design, which was improved for 2008. New features include:
· A new, more user-friendly instrument panel and center console.
1) Even more storage, cleverly integrated throughout.
· Redesigned door trim panels feature integrated second-bin compartments. A contents-retention strap helps secure items in the driver’s door.
1) The instrument panel has a new storage tray above the passenger air bag.
2) The center console doubles the usable storage space of the previous version – and now includes three larger cup holders that can accommodate a wider variety of cup/mug sizes, an integrated clipboard holder and space for a laptop.
· Four new optional user-defined switches on the dashboard and a more efficient wiring harness, which make it easier for upfitters to integrate aftermarket features such as auxiliary lighting.
1) An optional audio input jack on the instrument panel that connects E-Series to MP3 players and other portable audio devices.
2) A new glove box that provides still more storage and a second power point.
3) A new message center available in E-Series vans and wagons that features standard vehicle maintenance information as well as miles-to-empty and fuel economy numbers. The message center is standard on vans equipped with the 6.0-liter Power Stroke® V-8 Turbo Diesel engine and includes an engine-hour meter that keeps a running total of engine use, even during idling.
“Customers let us know what an important tool their E-Series can be taking care of business, and that’s why we’ve continued investing in these vehicles, building on the suspension and chassis improvements, new cargo management system upgrades and improved exterior design we delivered on E-Series for 2008,” Koswick said. “Beyond these new technology-based solutions, though, we haven’t overlooked ways to improve the essential elements of E-Series vans.”
Core upgrades include:
- A new door system that makes it easier to move the rear doors to their full-open position. A detent in the system allows the doors to be held open at 95 degrees and when needed, they can be opened to 172 degrees with a simple push. This allows full access to the rear cargo area.
- More fueling options. E-Series full-size cargo vans equipped with 4.6-liter and 5.4-liter engines are capable of running on E85 (85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline), pure gasoline or any blend in between – a segment first. All E-Series engines are designed to meet 2010 emissions standards.
- Added safety equipment, including a new optional, dash-mounted front-passenger air bag cutoff switch on vans and cutaways; standard AdvanceTrac® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control) on all wagons and recreational vans and optional on commercial vans with gasoline engines; and an optional factory-installed integrated trailer brake controller that allows direct operation of the trailer’s electronic brakes by squeezing the control module on the instrument panel with more confidence than typical aftermarket systems.
Feb. 5, 2008
New Factory Customized 2009 Edge Sport Debuts
- Chicago Auto Show marks the debut for the 2009 Ford Edge Sport, providing a factory-quality, customized model to America's best-selling crossover.
- The Edge Sport features standard 20- or optional 22-inch wheels, low-profile tires, exterior modifications and interior enhancements, lending it a dynamic look and feel.
- 2009 Ford Edge Sport will be available this fall.
Ford is providing still more sizzle for America's best-selling mid-size crossover, introducing a new factory-customized model – the 2009 Edge Sport.
"The new Ford Edge Sport is designed to instantly appeal to crossover customers who want a sportier custom look and feel," said John Felice, general manager, Ford Division. "This specialty design reflects the growing popularity of personalization and more customers' interest in industry shows like the annual Hot Import Nights around the country and the Specialty Equipment Market Association Show in Las Vegas."
The Sport model – which joins the SE, SEL and Limited models in the range – makes the Ford Edge the first vehicle in its segment to offer a customized model. Its modern, athletic design, flexible package and unique features like VistaRoof™ and SYNC helped sell 130,125 Edge units in 2007, making it the nation's top-selling crossover. The new Edge Sport model will further distinguish it from competitors.
Edge Becomes Even Sportier
Edge Sport stands on even bolder, available 22-inch polished aluminum wheels or the standard 20-inch premium painted wheels with branded center hubs. Low-profile, 40-series Pirelli Scorpion Zero tires complete the look, giving Edge Sport an aggressive stance.
This marks the first time that a 22-inch wheel-and-tire combination has been offered on a crossover. The eight-piece Edge Sport body kit includes a unique front air dam, side skirts, lower door caps and a rear skirt, all finished in body color, instead of the dark lower on other Edge models. The front air dam features integrated fog lamps and a lower grille insert. These elements combine with the unique wheels and tires to provide a sporty personality.
Details, like custom Sport badging, polished dual exhaust tips emerging from openings in the rear skirt and "foundry gray" smoked headlamp and taillamp lenses, add to its purposeful look.
In addition to lustrous Sport Blue paint on the model highlighted at the Chicago Auto Show, Edge Sport will be available in Ebony, Brilliant Silver and Redfire. Inside, dark gray leather seats feature unique suede-feel patterned inserts in a combination of light and dark gray. Contrasting, light gray stitching gives the seats a premium appeal. The contrasting stitched leather also is used on the Edge Sport steering wheel and shift knob.
Edge Sport is further distinguished by an appealing etched metal effect on the instrument panel center console.
"While custom-made to appeal to customers, Edge Sport is smart business," said Mark Fields, president of The Americas. "The aftermarket industry has grown to a $40 billion annual business, and crossovers are the fastest-growing vehicle segment in the U.S. We want customers who crave something special to know that Ford can customize their Edge – right at the factory."
January 6, 2008
Ford to Equip Half a Million Vehicles With EcoBoost Engine Technology For Up To 20% Better Fuel Economy
- EcoBoost is Ford Motor Company’s new high-volume, affordable engine technology slated for a range of global vehicles – from small cars to large trucks.
- EcoBoost uses gasoline turbocharged direct-injection technology for up to 20 percent better fuel economy, 15 percent fewer CO2 emissions and superior driving performance versus larger displacement engines.
- The new technology will be available in half a million Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles annually in North America during the next five years – beginning with the new Lincoln MKS sedan in 2009.
- Ford Explorer America concept at the North American International Auto Show showcases EcoBoost combined with other sustainability actions; together, they deliver a 20-30 percent increase in fuel economy, depending on engine selection, versus today’s mid-size utilities.
DETROIT, Jan. 6, 2008 – Ford Motor Company is introducing a new engine technology called EcoBoost that will deliver up to 20 percent better fuel economy on half a million Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles annually in North America during the next five years.
The EcoBoost family of 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder engines features turbocharging and direct injection technology. Compared with more expensive hybrids and diesel engines, EcoBoost builds upon today’s affordable gasoline engine and improves it, providing more customers with a way to improve fuel economy and emissions without compromising driving performance.
“EcoBoost is meaningful because it can be applied across a wide variety of engine types in a range of vehicles, from small cars to large trucks – and it’s affordable,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president of Global Product Development.
“Compared with the current cost of diesel and hybrid technologies, customers can expect to recoup their initial investment in a 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine through fuel savings in approximately 30 months. A diesel will take an average of seven and one-half years, while the cost of a hybrid will take nearly 12 years to recoup – given equivalent miles driven per year and fuel costs,” he said.
Ford will introduce EcoBoost on the new Lincoln MKS flagship in 2009, followed by the Ford Flex and other vehicles. By 2013, Ford will have more than half a million EcoBoost-powered vehicles on the road annually in North America.
In 2009, Ford first will introduce EcoBoost on the Lincoln MKS featuring a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6. It will produce the power and torque of a V-8 engine with the fuel efficiency of a V-6. In fact, with an estimated 340-horsepower and more than 340 lb.-ft. of torque, the Lincoln MKS will be the most powerful and fuel-efficient all-wheel-drive luxury sedan in the market.
More With Less
EcoBoost’s combination of direct injection and turbocharging mitigates the traditional disadvantages of downsizing and boosting 4- and 6-cylinder engines, giving customers both superior performance as well as fuel economy.
With direct injection, fuel is injected into each cylinder of an engine in small, precise amounts. Compared to conventional port injection, direct injection produces a cooler, denser charge, delivering higher fuel economy and performance.
When combined with modern-day turbocharging – which uses waste energy from the exhaust gas to drive the turbine – direct injection provides the best of both worlds: the responsiveness of a larger-displacement engine with fewer trips to the gas pump.
Ford’s 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6, for example, can deliver upwards of 340-plus lb.-ft. of torque across a wide engine range – 2,000 to 5,000 rpm versus 270 to 310 lb.-ft of torque for a conventional naturally aspirated 4.6-liter V-8 over the same speed range. At the same time, this V-6 gives customers an approximate 2 mpg improvement and emits up to 15 percent fewer CO2 emissions to the environment.
Direct injection coupled with turbocharging allows for the downsizing of engines that deliver improved torque and performance. A small 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine has the capability of producing more torque than a larger 4-cylinder engine – nearly an entire liter larger in displacement – with better fuel efficiency.
The real-world fuel economy benefit is consistent no matter the drive cycle, meaning the engine is efficient in the city as well as on the highway – unlike hybrids, which are most efficient in stop-and-go traffic. In addition, customers who tow and haul – and have long turned to more expensive diesel powertrains for their superior towing capabilities – can find the engine performance they need from an EcoBoost powertrain.
EcoBoost – combined with multi-speed transmissions, advanced electric power steering, weight reductions and aerodynamic improvements – is part of Ford Motor Company’s strategy to deliver sustainable, quality vehicles that customers want and value. Additional hybrid offerings and diesel engines are planned for light-duty vehicles.
Longer term, Ford plans to remain aggressive in the development of plug-in hybrids and hydrogen fuel cell-powered vehicles.
“We know that what will make the biggest difference is applying the right technology on volume vehicles that customers really want and value and can afford,” said Kuzak. “EcoBoost puts an affordable technology within reach for millions of customers, and Ford’s systems approach adds up to a big idea that differentiates Ford’s sustainability strategy in the market.”
Explorer America – A Sustainable Showcase
To help explain its vehicle sustainability strategy, Ford has created the Explorer America concept for the 2008 North American International Auto Show.
The Explorer America concept delivers an approximately 20 to 30 percent fuel-economy improvement – depending on engine selection – while providing room for six and their gear, along with moderate towing and off-roading capabilities.
The concept aims to highlight for customers and auto show attendees a number of innovations tied to Ford’s systems approach, including:
- A powertrain lineup that includes a 4-cylinder 2-liter engine with EcoBoost technology delivering 275 hp and 280 lb.-ft. of torque or, as a premium engine, a 3.5-liter V-6 delivering about 340 hp. Depending on engine selection, fuel-efficiency will improve by 20 to 30 percent versus today’s V-6 Explorer
- Migration from current body-on-frame to unibody construction, reducing weight and delivering superior driving dynamics
- A fuel-efficient 6-speed transmission with auto shift control, allowing the driver to select and hold a lower gear with just the turn of a dial when conditions warrant it
- A weight reduction of 150 pounds for the V-6 version thanks to its downsized – yet superior performing – engine, as well as more lightweight materials, suspension and chassis components
- Fuel-saving electric power assisted steering (EPAS) and other engine actions that deliver a fuel savings benefit of about 5 percent. Between 80 to 90 percent of Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles will have EPAS by 2012
- Aerodynamic and other parasitic improvements that add up to a 5 percent fuel economy gain
The production model of the Explorer changed the landscape when it arrived on the scene in 1990 as a 1991 model, delivering an experience as unique as the owners who would eventually shape the design of the Explorer America concept.
Today’s Explorer leads the mid-size SUV segment in sales. Since its introduction 18 years ago, Explorer has sold more than 6.5 million vehicles.
For 2008, Explorer adds several new features, including Ford’s award-winning SYNC system that it developed with Microsoft. SYNC connects people and their favorite portable devices while in the vehicle, including media players and Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones. In addition, Explorer receives Ford’s EasyFuel capless refueling system, which is fitted as standard and new available 20-inch polished aluminum wheels.
Ford Explorer received 5-star ratings in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s frontal and side-impact crash tests for the second year in a row. Explorer comes standard with six air bags, including front seat and side-curtain air bags and AdvanceTrac with class-exclusive Roll Stability Control, an electronic stability enhancement system that actually measures what other manufacturers’ systems ignore or can only estimate.
December 2007
Ford Honored with 'Clean Vehicle Award' From International Energy Agency
Today, for the second time, Ford Motor Company was awarded the “Clean Vehicle Award” from the International Energy Agency (IEA) Implementing Agreement on Hybrid & Electric Vehicles for the company’s achievement in obtaining high energy efficiency and lower energy consumption in the transport sector. Ford accepted the award today at the 2007 Electric Vehicle Symposium (EVS23) in Anaheim.
Ford was recognized for achieving sales of more than 50,000 hybrid models worldwide as part of the organization’s award given to manufacturers with outstanding sales figures – surpassing thresholds of 25,000; 50,000; 100,000 and more than 250,000 clean vehicles sold.
“Our hybrid program has been an unqualified success and we believe hybrids are important to America's future,” said Greg Frenette, chief engineer, Fuel Cell Production Program, Ford Motor Company. “From a technological perspective, our Escape Hybrid was the first hybrid from an American automaker and the first SUV hybrid on the market. It also remains the most fuel-efficient SUV in the world.”
In 2006, the Implementing Agreement on Hybrid & Electric Vehicles recognized Ford for passing the 25,000 milestone in clean vehicle sales. According to IEA, “Ford Motor Company played an important role as a clean vehicle innovator in the early 1990s. By developing and marketing the hybrid Escape, Ford has been a pioneer among U.S. manufacturers to introduce a sports utility vehicle to the marketplace, and this has rewarded the company with well-earned market success.”
New Mustang Convertible Stands Alone In Its Class As a True 5-Star Safety-Rated Vehicle
The Ford Mustang convertible, the best-selling convertible ever, is now the first specialty sports car in history to earn the highest possible safety ratings in all New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) test modes performed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The iconic 2008 Ford Mustang convertible stands alone as the only convertible of any type that can be called a five-star safety vehicle, having aced all NCAP crash testing and rollover resistance evaluations.
To achieve five stars in all categories, vehicles must earn the highest possible safety ratings in:
- Frontal crash evaluations for both driver and front-seat passenger
- Side impact evaluations for both driver and rear-seat passenger directly behind the driver
- NHTSA's rollover test, a two-tiered evaluation used to gauge a vehicle's resistance to rollover
The new Mustang convertible also earned the highest side-impact performance rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
“The five-star ratings confirm our own analysis of the safety performance of this excellent vehicle,” said Jim Vondale, director, Ford's Automotive Safety Office. “The Mustang convertible is another example of working at all levels to offer a vehicle that is both sporty and safe. It was developed with a dedicated focus on safety, making it the highest rated Mustang ever built."
For 2008, Mustang adds standard side air bags to an already comprehensive safety package. Along with the addition of seat-mounted thorax side air bags, safety features include the Personal Safety System – a suite of restraint technologies designed to tailor their response to the severity of the crash and other factors. The system includes dual-stage driver and front passenger air bags, safety belt pretensioners, seat weight sensing system for the passenger seat and crash severity sensing.
A vehicle occupant's best line of defense in crashes remains the safety belt. Ford Motor Company's industry-leading technology, Beltminder, reminds the driver and front-seat passenger to buckle up. The technology has been installed in more than 20 million vehicles. Both NHTSA and IIHS have noted the effectiveness of Beltminder as a significant life-saving technology.
Mustang convertible features a crash-optimized structure designed to help absorb and dissipate crash energy and maintain occupant compartment integrity. Ford designs all of its vehicles with the objective of reducing the risk and severity of injury in a crash. Ford safety engineers and experts use the most advanced computer modeling technology in the industry to ensure its vehicles meet or exceed our stringent internal crashworthiness standards. Ford incorporates an array of other stringent safety testing in the development of its vehicles, including frontal offset, side impact and rear impact.
Mustang remains one of the greatest automotive sales success stories of all time and is America’s best-selling convertible. Nearly one out of every two sports cars sold in this country is a Mustang. The 2008 Mustang intends to hold on to that sales leadership with new available features that will add personal appeal, including High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps, 18-inch wheels on the V-6 coupe, and an interior ambient lighting system.
Aug. 6, 2007 Ten Ways Ford F-150 Stands Out From the Pack
Ford F-Series, America’s truck leader for 30 consecutive years, sets the standard for strength and toughness – with more trucks on the road with over 250,000 miles than any other brand. Ford continues to raise the bar to give truck customers more of what they’re looking for. The 2008 Ford F-150 introduces new models, features and options that take “Built Ford Tough” to a new level. Here’s a look at just a few of the ways the F-150 continues to lead full-size pickups:
1. Bolted Ford Tough: With 1,000 pounds more payload than the nearest competitor and a class-leading 11,000-pound towing capacity, the Ford F-150’s capability leadership can be measured down to the bolts. Ford has the largest, strongest bed and key suspension bolts in the segment to hold up to the abuse of customers who move these extreme loads. While its 300-horsepower, 5.4-liter V-8 engine, fully boxed frame and robust suspension get most of the credit, the bolts hold it all together over the long haul. Check out the video at http://youtube.com/watch?v=zShwG9l1F0Q&mode=related&search to see how the Ford F-150 handles grueling rough roads versus the competition.
2. One tough customer: The Ford F-150’s fully boxed frame is the strongest in the segment, providing the foundation for improved durability, driving dynamics, ride refinement and quietness. The result is increased stiffness and stronger attachment points for the brackets that attach the body and suspension to the frame – and minimal shake and shudder on rough roads. With a driving feel that is designed to be plush yet connected to the road, F-150 has a front suspension system that readily absorbs bumps but stands strong against steering forces. The frame also contributes to the F-150’s leading payload and towing capability.
3. Safety in numbers: The Ford F-150 is one of the only half-ton pickups to have earned NHTSA’s five-star crash rating for both driver and front passenger thanks to a solid structure and rigorous “Built Ford Tough” testing. The structure includes strong hydroformed front frame rails that are built with computer-designed front horns to help manage crash forces. In an impact, these areas of the frame are designed to collapse in an accordion fashion, dissipating energy before it reaches the passenger compartment.
4. Fuel-saving innovations: The Ford F-150 features the segment’s only 4x4 system with integrated wheel ends that automatically disconnect when the truck is shifted into 4x2 and re-connect when it is shifted into four-wheel mode. The system reduces fuel consumption by up to a half gallon per mile in 4x2 driving conditions compared to more traditional systems used by competitive trucks. Combined with fuel-saving engine technologies such as the 5.4-liter 3-valve V-8’s variable cam timing, the F-150 gets comparable real-world fuel economy while still delivering class-leading capability.
5. Eyes in the back of your bed: The 2008 Ford F-150’s new rearview video camera parking aid system enhances visibility at the rear of the box through an innovative video feed customers can conveniently see on the rearview mirror. The Rearview Camera System is mounted in the tailgate handle bezel and is activated when the vehicle is shifted into reverse, giving the driver a clear view behind the vehicle. The video image is displayed in the self-dimming rearview mirror, a natural place for the driver to look while in reverse. This system gives truckers who tow the visibility they need to back up to their trailer and line up precisely to hook up the hitch. The industry’s only other truck application requires drivers to look down at the navigation screen as they’re reversing.
6. Six-door truck? Retail and fleet truck customers can choose an innovative Mid-box feature – a customizable box between the cab and bed – that provides lockable storage for tools and other valuable items. The rugged, steel construction features double-paneled doors that are accessible from both sides of the vehicle and lock and unlock with the same key that operates the driver’s door. Latches feature double-bitted keys and lock tumblers designed to provide additional security. Dent-resistant exterior door panels wear factory Ford door handles for a well integrated look and feature commercial grade sealing delivering a weather- and dust-resistant interior compartment. The Mid-box option is available on Regular Cab and Super Cab models.
7. The ultimate tool box: The 2008 Ford F-150 works even harder and smarter with a factory-installed feature that offers an easy-to-use solution for secure storage of all types of cargo. The base Cargo Management System comes with two side rails and four cleats. Additional options include a pair of bins, a pair of crossbars and a header bar. Extra bins and crossbars are easily added when extra capability and flexibility is needed. In the “Built Ford Tough” spirit, Ford engineered the system to handle more load and last longer than competitive systems. For example, the easily adjustable, cast-aluminum cleats can hold more than 600 pounds. Side-mounted, blow-molded plastic tool bins can hold up to 60 pounds and feature double wall construction, providing a watertight, thermal barrier that keeps beverages cold when used as a cooler.
8. Power play: The supercharged, 450-horsepower 2008 Ford Harley-Davidson™ F-150 is the most powerful F-Series truck ever and races onto streets this fall to help the famed motorcycle maker and automaker kick off their 105th anniversary celebrations. The new limited-edition truck is the third supercharged Ford Harley-Davidson™ F-150, following the best-selling 2002 and 2003 models that were among the more than 60,000 specialty trucks sold since 1999. This supercharged beast is available on both monochromatic and two-toned 4x2 models.
9. More choice: The Ford F-150 offers the industry’s widest variety of body configurations, including three cab choices, three box lengths, two box styles and five unique series. Ford further expands the leading lineup of more than 60 unique models and configurations with the addition of the 2008 Ford F-150 Lariat Limited and XL Super Crew. The Lariat Limited takes Ford’s “Tough Luxury” to a new level with a stunning White Sand Metallic monochromatic paint scheme and massive 22-inch wheels. The XL Super Crew offers the hottest truck model – four-door crew cabs – in a more affordable package. Why so many choices? Ford customers need different tools for different jobs. The competition only offers half as many combinations as the Ford F-150.
10. Paint by quality numbers: The Ford F-150’s frame is painted with a high-tech e-coat paint process that was perfected by Mazda and reduces paint waste. The unique paint job reduces the environmental impact by allowing a more uniform and consistent quality coating of paint to be applied to parts. This paint process uses electric energy to attract paint particles to a part, minimizing waste and overspray.
June 6, 2007
Did you know that Ford Motor Company has captured the Most Awards in the 2007 J.D. Powers Initial Quality Study?
Ford Motor Company won 14 vehicle honors, more than any other automaker - an achievement unmatched by any other corporation this year supplanting Toyota, who captured only four honors this year - down from 11 segment leaders last year.
The following Ford models placed within the top three in their respective segments:
1st place: Ford Mustang
2nd place: Ford F150
3rd place: Ford Fusion, Ford Econoline, Ford Five Hundred
Lombard Ford invites you to come by and celebrate this outstanding achievement and our 25th year in business as we continue to serve the Northwest corner of CT.
"Have you driven a Ford lately?"
Call today 860-379-3301 or 800-822-4222 and let's make an appointment for you to test drive one of the many fine products built by Ford Motor Company. We have many new and pre-owned vehicles in stock to choose from.