Yin and Yang have converged in a perfect union today. The 2011 Ford Mustang has become not only the most fuel-efficient Mustang ever, but also the first production car in history to produce more than 300 horsepower and more than 30 mpg highway.

The Mustang’s official EPA ratings – completed this week – certify that models equipped with the 305-hp 3.7-liter V-6 and available six-speed automatic transmission achieve 31 mpg on the highway and 19 mpg in the city. The standard six-speed manual transmission is rated at 29 mpg on the highway and 19 mpg in the city.

Mustang is powered by a lightweight, all-aluminum 3.7-liter dual-overhead-cam (DOHC) V-6 engine that uses advanced engineering to deliver its combination of power and economy. Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) adjusts the valvetrain in microseconds depending on driver inputs, further contributing to the engine’s overall efficiency.

The fact that Mustang achieves its top fuel economy rating with the convenience of an automatic transmission also marks a shift in conventional wisdom. Ford engineered a modern six-speed automatic transmission with carefully calibrated gear ratios and shift programs to maximize economy, while still delivering high-horsepower driving fun.

In addition to engine improvements, upgrades to Mustang’s body, powertrain and chassis design contribute to the higher fuel economy numbers for 2011. Examples include:



•New Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) system eliminates the drag of an engine-operated hydraulic power steering pump


•Six-speed manual and automatic transmissions allow lower cruising revs without sacrificing off-the-line performance


•Aerodynamic changes include improvements like a new front fascia, tire spats on the rear wheels, modified underbody shields, a taller air dam and an added rear decklid seal



The new 2011 Mustang already has more than 11,000 orders. Half of all the nationwide orders are for the car’s fuel-efficient 3.7-liter V-6 engine. The 2011 Mustangs are also being equipped with record levels of technology, giving customers the option of choosing navigation, high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps and rearview cameras.

The new 2011 Mustang goes on sale this spring and will be built at the AutoAlliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Mich.

Quotes

“The Mustang engineering team aimed high and, through hard work, achieved fuel economy numbers that elevate Mustang into a class by itself.”

– Derrick Kuzak, Ford Group Vice President, Global Product Development


“At no other time in Mustang’s history – for that matter, in automotive history – have we been able to talk about 305 horsepower and 31 miles per gallon. The Mustang truly is a no-compromises sports car.”

– Derrick Kuzak, Ford Group Vice President, Global Product Development


“Advanced powertrains like our Ti-VCT V-6 and six-speed automatic really speak to the future of Mustang. We’ve proven that, using technology, Ford can deliver both power and fuel economy.”

– Barb Samardzich, Ford Vice President of

The Transit Connect Electric is the first of four battery-powered vehicles that Ford plans to bring to market by 2012.
(Don Kelsen / Los Angeles Times / March 3, 2010)


Ford Motor Co.'s first all-electric vehicle made its Los Angeles debut this week at the Petersen Automotive Museum, a fitting locale for a manufacturer to take a successful product from its present lineup and push it into the future.

The electric version of a light-duty cargo van that has been available globally since 2003 and has sold more than 600,000 units, the Transit Connect Electric is the first of four electrified vehicles the Detroit manufacturer plans to bring to market by 2012. The Ford Focus Electric passenger car is due out next year; plug-in and next-generation hybrids should be available in two years.

Despite the public's clamor for an all-electric passenger car, Ford decided to debut its lithium-ion-powered technology with a fleet vehicle whose corporate and government users typically drive them about 40 miles a day, said Praveen Cherian, Ford program manager for the Transit Connect Electric.

That's well within the 80-mile maximum that a Transit Connect can reach on a single charge, he said, allowing the vehicle to recharge at the owner's on-site parking facilities.

"Fleets are more ideal for these applications because they have a predetermined fixed route and don't have to depend on infrastructure outside the home station to recharge their batteries," Cherian said.

Production of the Transit Connect Electric will begin in the fourth quarter.

Ford has yet to set a price for the electric cargo van, whose charging time is six to eight hours at an estimated cost of $300 annually, depending on local utility rates.

The gasoline-powered version costs $21,000 and gets about 25 miles per gallon; the average annual fuel cost is about $1,500, Cherian said.

The weight of the van's batteries reduces its payload by about a third, but the electric version has the same 135 cubic feet of cargo volume and a 39-foot turning radius as its internal-combustion inspiration.

It's what makes it move that's different. There's an AC induction motor instead of a 2-liter, inline-4 engine and a liquid-cooled, 28-kilowatt-hour battery pack mounted under the floor instead of a gas tank.

"It's almost like the platform was designed in 2003 with an electric vehicle in mind," Cherian said.

The dashboard controls look very much like those in a traditional car, with gauges for motor temperature and speed; there are additional displays for remaining battery life and range.

Both the brakes and the accelerator pedal incorporate regenerative technologies that extend the vehicle's range by recharging the battery when the vehicle is slowing down.

The Transit Connect Electric's battery cells are similar to those used in Ford's Escape plug-in fleet, cells for which Ford has accumulated 250,000 miles of test time, Cherian said. The all-electric powertrain is made by Azure Dynamics, the same company that has been upfitting Ford's E450 chassis with its balanced hybrid power pack technologies.

The rolling chassis will be built at a Ford plant in Turkey and upfitted by Azure Dynamics at an as-yet-unannounced Michigan assembly plant. Ford plans to make 1,000 units in 2011, adjusting its production numbers to "what the market will accept," Cherian said.

Ford sells about 100,000 trucks to U.S. fleet customers each year, including AT&T, Best Buy, United Parcel Service and the United States Postal Service.

According to Cherian, "We hope to leverage those same customers with the Transit Connect Electric."

susan.carpenter @latimes.com
Copyright © 2010, The Los Angeles Times

By Mark Kleis
Shelby and Ford Motor Company have a long-standing relationship that has resulted in some of the most iconic sports cars ever produced. Shelby and Ford’s latest creation – the 2011 GT350 – a tribute to the original GT350 that was first produced for the public in 1966 – is set to go auction for the general public in the first week of April.


Collectors around the world have long placed added value in unique production numbers, and it will likely be no different with the 2011 Shelby GT350 Mustang. Shelby has announced that it will be auctioning (with reserve) the 2011 Shelby GT350 wearing serial number 350 – likely to become a highly sought after collector’s dream.

“Over the past several years, we’ve offered several prototypes, concepts and special serial numbered contemporary collector cars to the public, which has been a significant break from the traditional approach that car makers once followed with such important cars,” said Barrett-Jackson chairman/CEO, Craig Jackson.

Auctioning of unique and early production vehicles to the public has not always been the norm, as evidenced by automaker’s like GM for the first time turning to sell warehouses full of unique vehicles that it has kept for itself – known as the Heritage Collection.

“At one time, it was common for these cars to be destroyed or sold to industry insiders instead of being available to the general car collector hobby. The automakers have begun to turn to us as the best, most democratic way to offer these cars,” said Jackson.

The serial number won’t be the only thing unique about the GT350 Mustang up for auction – the car itself doesn’t even exist yet, and 2011 Mustang production is set to begin around the same time as the Barrett-Jackson auction. Bidders will be getting rights to the serial number 350 car, along with the ability to order the car with options of their choosing. In fact, all 2011 Shelby GT350 Mustangs can be custom ordered, with dealers being able to drop-ship a Mustang GT of a customer’s choosing for aftermarket retrofitting of the complete GT350 package – making it a legitimate and serial numbered car.

“Because 2011 Ford Mustang GT production will begin about the same time as the auction, we’re going to sell the rights to the serial number 350 car,” added Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “The GT350 will be built in Las Vegas when the base car becomes available and include a host of important options. In addition, Carroll said that he will personally drive the car before it is delivered to the lucky bidder at the Shelby American factory. This will truly be a special, milestone collector car.”

The 2011 Shelby GT350 Mustang begins as a 2011 Mustang GT, powered by a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 that is good for 412 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. Once the Mustang arrives at Shelby’s facility, it undergoes an extensive transformation that includes the addition of a Ford Racing Whipple Supercharger, 3.73 rear axle, custom Shelby-Borla center-exit exhaust, Shelby-Ford Racing suspension, Shelby-Baer 6-piston front brakes with 14″ Eradispeed rotors, a functional hood scoop, unique front and rear fascias, side skirts, custom gauges, and countless unique Shelby-badged parts under the hood, inside the cabin and around the exterior of the vehicle.

The end result is a significantly increased performance and over 500 horsepower.

by Sam Abuelsamid (RSS feed)


Ford Transit Connect Electric

Ford has big plans for electrification of its fleet over the next decade, and while most of the emphasis has been on North America so far, Europe will be joining in on the party starting in 2011. Nancy Gioia has announced that between 2011 and 2013, Ford of Europe will get five new hybrid and battery electric models added to its lineup. About six to nine months after each of the new models rolls out in North America, they will be introduced in Europe.

Ford's first new battery-powered vehicle, the Transit Connect Electric goes on sale this fall in North America followed by a European launch in the middle of 2011. The battery powered van is just the beginning of Ford's global electrification plan. Read more about it after the jump.



[Source: Ford]

The Transit Connect is built at a Ford plant in Turkey, and EV models will be shipped to Detroit as gliders (sans powertrain). When they arrive here, Azure Dynamics will install the batteries, power electronics and electric drive system. Azure will be setting up a facility in Michigan to do the up-fitting.

It doesn't seem like it would make sense to ship TC gliders to the U.S., install the electric drive bits and then ship the finished vehicle back to the continent. Gioia told ABG that a final decision has not yet been made on how or where to install the TC's electric components for the European market.

Come 2012, Ford will add the new Focus Electric to the European lineup as well. Ford has developed the new C-segment platform to accommodate conventional internal combustion engines, hybrid drive and full battery electric powertrains. Like the Transit Connect, Ford has not announced where the Focus Electric would be sourced from for Europe. Because all of Ford's factories are using the same manufacturing processes, the European plants should be able to build the EV. North American market Focus Electrics will come from the Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, MI.

The Focus Electric will use 23 kWh lithium ion battery pack, which should provide a nominal range of 100 miles.



Ford is already participating in an ultra-low carbon vehicle test program with prototype Focus electrics in the UK. Testing is now being expanded to the E-Mobility program in Cologne Germany. There the Focus will be joined by the full-size Transit van converted to electric drive by Smith Electric Vehicles.

Because both of Ford's current hybrid models, the Escape and Fusion (along with their Mercury siblings) have been based on North American models, they have not been available in Europe. That changes when the next generation hybrid system arrives in 2012. The first two non-plug-in variants to use the new hybrid system will be on the global C and C/D platforms. The C is of course the Focus, and we are expecting the replacements for the Escape and the current European market Kuga to be commonized and offered as hybrids.

The C/D platform will be the basis of the Fusion and Mondeo replacements, which will also be commonized. A plug-in hybrid will also be build at Michigan Assembly based on an as yet unannounced body style... maybe the Escape/Kuga. The plug-in and non-plug hybrids will debut in Europe in 2013.

In developing its next-generation hybrids as well as the battery electrics, Ford is targeting as much systems commonality as possible. For example, the plug and non-plug hybrids will use the same power-split transmissions and power electronics. Even the battery pack systems will be common with the same management system. Only the cells inside will be different with the plug-in using higher capacity lithium ion cells in place of nickel metal hydride. Ford already announced earlier this year that, like General Motors, it would bring its pack manufacturing in-house beginning in 2012, only relying on suppliers for the cells.

With the expansion of hybrid and electric vehicle availability, Ford is definitely planning on higher sales. How high those sales go is hard to predict. Gioia projected that various electrified vehicles will comprise from 10-25 percent of Ford's global sales by 2020. The wide range is due to a lot of unknowns regarding fuel prices, battery prices and incentives.

Among those electrified vehicles, Gioia expects about 70 percent to be non-plug hybrids, 20 percent plug-in hybrids and only five percent battery electrics with each of those possibly varying by plus or minus several percent. While Ford is working on battery electric vehicles, the automaker clearly isn't as bullish on the prospects as companies like Nissan-Renault or Mitsubishi. Ford is only projecting BEVs to comprise about 0.5-1.5 percent of total sales, nowhere near the 50 percent that some are hoping for.

Despite some pessimism on the commercial prospects, Ford is engineering all of its highest volume vehicles to allow them to be fitted with gas, diesel, HEV, PHEV or BEV powertrains. Similarly, the manufacturing processes are being developed to provide Ford the flexibility it will need to respond to market demands. Only time will tell how EVs ultimately succeed or fail. Either way, Ford expects internal combustion engines to remain part of the automotive landscape until at least mid-century.

by Sam Abuelsamid (RSS feed)



Ford is expanding its EcoBoost engine strategy to Europe this summer with the introduction of 2.0-liter and 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engines. The EcoBoost range of turbocharged and direct injected gasoline engines debuted last summer here in North America with the launch of the 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 in the Ford Taurus SHO, Flex and Lincoln MKS and MKT.

Ford will debut refreshed versions of its S-Max and Galaxy minivans this summer, both of which will use the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine that will also be available in the updated Edge later this year. In the European van applications, the 2.0-liter will be rated at 200 horsepower, which is on the low end for an engine of this type and displacement. Power numbers for the four-cylinder turbo in U.S. applications haven't yet been announced but will likely be in the 230–240 hp range to match the current 3.0-liter V6 used in the Fusion and Escape.

The smaller C-Max and Grand C-Max will be the first vehicles to use a 1.6-liter EcoBoost when they go on sale in the fall. The 1.6-liter will be offered in two power levels, 148 hp and 177 hp. For now Ford is only committing to installing the 1.6-liter in the two MPV variants. However, when we got our first preview of the Focus models that debuted in Detroit, Ford officials acknowledged that an EcoBoost-powered Focus would eventually join the 2.0-liter normally aspirated engine in North America.

American enthusiasts hoping for a chance to buy Ford's raucous 300-hp Focus RS that launched in Europe last year won't be getting that particular car. However, Ford is confirming this week at the Geneva Motor Show that a global performance car based on the new Focus is definitely coming with EcoBoost power. When the Explorer America Concept was unveiled in Detroit two years ago, Ford also talked about a 275-hp 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, which would certainly be plenty in the Focus, especially if it stays front-wheel drive.

[Source: Ford]
Show full PR text
NEXT-GENERATION FORD FOCUS TARGETS CLASS-LEADING TECHNOLOGY FOR GLOBAL CUSTOMERS

Next-generation Ford Focus, along with new C-MAX and Grand C-MAX, to introduce host of class-leading technologies and features to C-segment
Global debut for stylish new Focus wagon at Geneva Motor Show
New Focus range will maintain benchmark standard for driving quality
Ford targets leadership in fuel economy and CO2 levels in C-segment
New Focus developed without compromise for global release and to meet requirements of over 120 different markets

Geneva, March 2, 2010 – Ford Motor Company's next-generation C-segment vehicles will provide customers with a class-leading choice of affordable new technologies and features, superb craftsmanship and outstanding fuel economy, and will continue to set the global C-segment benchmark standard for driving quality.

The latest model to be revealed is the stylish, next-generation Focus wagon for 2011, making its global debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show alongside the sporty five-door Focus hatchback, also coming in 2011, and Ford C-MAX and Grand C-MAX sibling models which go on sale in Europe later this year.

The new Focus is the hero model from Ford's new global C-segment platform and will be sold in more than 120 markets worldwide with 80 per cent parts commonality across all markets. European and North American Focus production will start simultaneously in late 2010 and it will go on sale early in 2011. Production will be introduced in other countries later.

Also based on Ford's global C-car platform, the all-new C-MAX and Grand C-MAX Multi-Activity Vehicles will go on sale in Europe during the second half of 2010, with the seven-passenger Grand C-MAX also scheduled for launch in North America late in 2011.

"We aren't accepting any compromises in the development of our new global C-segment vehicles and the overwhelmingly positive reception given to the next-generation Focus at its unveiling in Detroit gives us confidence that we've got it right," said Ford of Europe Chairman and CEO, John Fleming. "Above all, we believe our new Focus and the C-MAX family will bring an unrivalled blend of new technologies, innovative features and driving quality to this fiercely competitive segment."

Focus Technology: Set for Class Leadership

The global scale of Ford's C-car programme makes more technologies and features economically viable than ever before for cars in this segment.

The substantial technology package for the next-generation Focus and C-MAX and Grand C-MAX models promises clear leadership in the C-car segment, and also offers customers an exciting array of advanced features generally found only in larger and more expensive vehicles.

"Our clear objective is to offer C-car customers around the world more relevant, affordable and innovative technologies and features than any other manufacturer," said Derrick Kuzak, Ford's group vice president for Product Development. "It will not be a case of technology for technology's sake either. Our efforts are directed towards making the new Focus easier to live with, safer to ride in and more fuel efficient than any other C-car. And, in keeping with the Focus legacy, it must be the best car to drive by far."

The new features, however, have been designed to be affordable, simple and highly intuitive to use, while enhancing convenience, safety and cost of ownership for the vehicle owner and occupants.

Just a look at the extensive list of major features and technologies that will be available across the new Ford C-car range (depending on vehicle, series and market) provides proof of this:

MyFord - Within the cockpit, the most significant innovation is the company's next-generation driver connect technology, MyFord, which provides the driver with a state-of-the-art combination of controls and display screens to operate the key vehicle features. On those high series vehicles with High Nav, the MyFord Touch system includes an 8-inch touch screen, allowing the driver to control a wide range of functions via a clear and intuitive colour display.

SYNC - MyFord is complemented by a new generation of Ford's powerful SYNC connectivity package, which includes sophisticated voice control system, Bluetooth® and satellite navigation, along with connection points for a wide variety of external devices and media players. The Ford SYNC system will make its European debut in the next-generation Focus when it is launched early in 2011.

Active Park Assist (semi-automatic parking system) – Unlike many expensive camera-based systems, Ford Active Park Assist uses sensors around the vehicle working in tandem with Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS), to guide the vehicle into a parallel parking space. The length and depth of potential spaces are measured and if suitable, are identified for semi-automated parking. The steering is then automatically controlled while the driver operates accelerator, brake and gear control.

Torque Vectoring Control – This dynamic cornering facility is usually found on expensive sports cars and uses the car's braking system to imitate the effect of a torque vectoring differential, constantly balancing the distribution of engine torque between the two front wheels to suit driving conditions and road surface. In particular, when accelerating through corners, the system applies braking to the front inside wheel so more of the engine torque goes to the outside wheel, which provides more grip and better handling. The system is designed not only to delight experienced and enthusiastic drivers but provide less experienced drivers with confidence and control, particularly in difficult driving conditions.

Low speed collision mitigation system – Using a forward looking radar sensor, this system detects objects in front of the car and continuously (50 times per second) calculates the brake force required to avoid a collision. Depending on the distance to the object and the vehicle's own speed, the system automatically applies the brakes. If the estimated braking force exceeds a given level without the driver responding, the risk of a collision is considered imminent and the system automatically reduces throttle input and further applies the brakes. The system is designed for speeds below 30km/h
(20 mph) and helps drivers to avoid low speed collisions.

Adaptive Cruise Control – This improved cruise control system helps to maintain a preset cruising speed as well as a preset distance from vehicles ahead. When the system senses a vehicle in front, it decelerates automatically to keep the preset distance, accelerating back to the preset cruising speed once the road ahead is clear.

Adjustable Speed Limiter Device (ASLD) – This is designed to help drivers, for whatever reason, set a chosen speed limit which the vehicle will then prevent them from unintentionally exceeding (e.g. motorway or urban speed limits). Once set the accelerator will not accept additional input to exceed it. Displayed information keeps the driver informed and in emergency situations the system can be overruled by kicking down the accelerator pedal.

Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keeping Aid – A forward-looking camera continuously monitors the road ahead and evaluates where the car is in relation to lane markings. If the vehicle's wheels approach the lane markings, the driver is alerted by a vibrating steering wheel which allows him to react quickly. Lane Keeping Aid applies a small amount of steering wheel torque to help the driver recognise that action is needed to keep the vehicle within the chosen lane. If the driver uses the indicators, or the driving situation suggests a lane change is intended, the alerts are suppressed. Two levels of sensitivity adjustment and three levels of warning intensity are available according to driver preference. The system is deactivated at speeds below 70km/h (43 mph) so it does not operate in urban driving. The function can also be switched off manually.

Blind Spot Information System – This easy-to-use, radar-based feature alerts drivers to obstacles that may be hidden in the blind spot. When traffic enters the driver's blind spot on either side of the vehicle, a warning light in the corresponding side mirror illuminates helping the driver to change lanes safely. The warning lights are positioned so the driver does not get distracted during normal driving. The system works at speeds above 10 km/h (6 mph).

Auto High Beam Control – This improves driver visibility significantly during night driving. Using a forward looking camera, the system detects light sources ahead and when oncoming vehicles are sensed, automatically switches to low beam to avoid glare. The high beam is also deactivated in urban areas.

Driver Alert – This system computes an attention level for the driver and shows it in the cluster on request. The level is based on statistical analysis of lane information collected by the forward looking camera as well as the vehicle's yaw behaviour. Additionally if driver attention falls below a certain level, for example when he is tired or falling asleep, the vehicle will issue a warning alert.

Traffic Sign Recognition – Recognises traffic signs on the right or left side of the road and shows them in the driver's information display. Speed limits as well as overtaking signs are identified and can be indicated simultaneously in the cluster.

Electric power steering with pull-drift compensation and torque steer compensation – Minimises fuel consumption, while also helping to eliminate unwanted steering disturbances.

Economy shift indicator – Visibly advises the driver when to change gear for optimum fuel economy.

Ford EasyFuel – This award-winning, capless refuelling system helps to prevent the driver misfuelling their vehicle.

Ford Keyless System and Ford Power start button – Ford's easy-to-use keyless entry and push-button start system.

Power Child Locks – Allow the driver to electronically activate or release the rear-door child locks via a simple control switch.

All-seat Beltminder – Monitors the first, second and third row of seats. Active acoustic warning and a visible signal is given for unbelted front seat occupants, while visible signals in the instrument cluster are provided for seat belt use in the rear rows. Additional acoustic warning is given if any occupant in the car unbuckles a seat belt while the vehicle is in motion.

Rear view camera – Tailgate mounted camera for safe and accurate reversing, with a clear image displayed on the centre console screen.

Ford Mobile Navigation – Allows the driver to use a compatible smart phone as a navigation system.

ONE Ford, One Focus

Under Ford Motor Company's global ONE Ford initiative, the next-generation Focus has been developed by an international team led from Ford's European small and medium vehicle centre of excellence in Merkenich near Cologne, Germany, with powertrain development led by a similar team at Ford's Dunton Technical Centre in England.

The product team based in Europe was able to call on the experience acquired from recent programmes such as the much-acclaimed new Ford Fiesta, and was supported by the expertise of vehicle and powertrain technology specialists located in Ford's engineering centres in Dearborn, Michigan in the U.S. and in Australia and Asia. Overall, some 1,800 Ford engineers globally are heavily involved in the development of what promises to be the most significant model to wear the Focus name since the very first example was launched
in 1998.

"The scale, level of commonality and global reach of Ford's new C-segment strategy, plus our global development and sourcing strategy have made it possible to provide a level of refinement and feature content that we believe will be unrivalled in this vehicle segment," said Derrick Kuzak, Ford's group vice president for Product Development. "The breadth of the technology and feature content plus the sophistication of the powertrain and safety strategy will be surprising, even to drivers of larger or more premium vehicles."

Focus on the Road - Unmatched Driving Quality

From its original introduction in 1998, the Ford Focus has been acclaimed for setting new levels of agility and responsiveness in the C-car segment. Ford will set new standards with the next-generation Focus by targeting class-leading driving quality that blends outstanding steering precision and road feedback with significantly improved refinement and ride control.

To deliver this performance, engineers have updated the innovative suspension concepts from prior models, developing optimised new designs for the "control blade" multilink rear suspension and the semi-isolated front subframe.

The chassis design is complemented by a completely new Electric Power Assist Steering system, which has been carefully tuned to deliver pure and precise responses at high speed while remaining light and manoeuvrable for parking.

Ford's European driving dynamics specialists have also enhanced cornering stability and agility with the introduction of the advanced Torque Vectoring Control system, which acts like an electronic differential to transfer power between the drive wheels, delivering reduced understeer, improved traction, better turn-in and even more precise, effortless, driving.

"The Focus has always been renowned for the quality of its driving dynamics, and the new model will build on that reputation," explained Gunnar Herrmann, Ford's Global C-car Vehicle Line Director. "Our dynamics engineers have been able to achieve greater steering precision and agility, while also delivering a noticeable improvement in refinement and comfort levels."

Focus Power: Outstanding Economy, Low CO2

The engaging driver appeal of the new Ford Focus is enhanced by a powertrain range that delivers spirited performance and targets leadership in fuel economy and CO2 emissions. It will be shared by other models in Ford's new C-car line up.

The European powertrain line-up for the next-generation Focus will include a range of brand new Ford EcoBoost 4-cylinder turbocharged direct injection petrol engines and a choice of improved Duratorq TDCi common-rail diesel engines, all of which offer reductions in fuel consumption of between 10 and 20 per cent compared to the outgoing models.

European customers have the choice of the new high-efficiency 1.6-litre Ford EcoBoost SCTi petrol direct-injection turbo engine with targeted outputs of 150 PS or 180 PS, or the light and responsive 1.6-litre Duratec Ti-VCT unit with targeted outputs of 125 PS
or 105 PS.

Diesel offerings include the 2.0-litre and 1.6-litre Duratorq TDCi engines that have been completely updated for 2010 with significantly improved fuel economy, performance and refinement. The powerful and smooth 2.0-litre line-up offers 163 PS, 140 PS or 115 PS, while the responsive and economical 1.6-litre engine delivers 115 PS or 95 PS.

The 2.0-litre TDCi diesel is also available with the advanced, high-efficiency Ford PowerShift 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission in a choice of 163 PS, 140 PS and 115 PS ratings. The Ford PowerShift transmission is an advanced dual-clutch design, combining the efficiency, optimised gear ratios and driving enjoyment of a manual gearbox with the smoothness and ease-of-use of a conventional automatic.

Focus Quality: Craftsmanship in Every Detail

With global customers now demanding a more premium experience from small- and medium-sized vehicles, achieving outstanding levels of quality and craftsmanship is a primary objective for the next-generation Ford Focus.

Significant strides have been made in reducing cabin noise, promising a quieter interior environment. This refinement complements the fresh new interior design and higher craftsmanship levels to create a premium feel akin to larger and more expensive vehicles.

Each component in the vehicle that the customer will touch, see, hear or even smell has been subjected to rigorous analysis to ensure that it will exceed an owner's expectations. Particular attention has been given to the quality of interior trim materials, and the colour matching, gaps, flushness and tolerances where one part meets another.

Across the majority of vehicle attributes, Ford has developed a global DNA standard that defines the exact attributes a part should have to meet the quality requirements of the brand. Examples include the sound the door makes when it is closed, requiring special attention to the door structure and latch mechanism, and the design of a steering wheel, right down to the thickness of padding and size of stitching on the rim.

Focus Design – A New Level of 'kinetic design'

A no-compromise approach to the next-generation Ford Focus is immediately evident from the striking exterior design of the sporty five-door and elegant new wagon models on display in Geneva. Both demonstrate the high level of distinctive style and presence that the new range will offer.

"With the new Focus, we have delivered a lower, sleeker and more sporting design," explains Martin Smith, Ford of Europe's Executive Design Director. "Each of the bodystyles has the same modern and expressive quality as our other recent European models, but we have taken the design language to the next level for the Focus to create a bold new look."

The bodystyles share a sporty and dynamic character, marking the next evolution of Ford's acclaimed kinetic design form language, which has contributed to the growing popularity of the company's latest small and medium cars.

With its striking front end, sleek profile, dramatic rising beltline and athletic stance, the new Focus clearly signals the rewarding driving experience that awaits customers when they take to the road.

With its rakish appearance, the new Focus wagon also makes a design statement and provides the ideal balance of dynamic looks and functional practicality. Full-length integrated roof rails enhance the wagon's attractive kinetic design, while the tailgate has a self-closing function and neatly incorporates a compact roof spoiler.

The dynamic quality of the exterior is reinforced by the distinctive design of the interior. The new Focus has an extremely modern, cockpit-style interior, with the stylish centre console wrapped around the driver and providing outstanding access to the vehicle's major controls and display panels.

The cabin's bold and contemporary graphics, the sculptured shape of the soft-touch instrument panel and the choice of superior trim materials all help to give occupants the feeling that they are travelling in a premium-class car.

Focus Structure: Strength and Safety

The Focus platform provides an incredibly strong and stiff structure, which not only benefits vehicle dynamics and refinement but also provides the basis for enhanced crash performance.

High-strength steels are used extensively in the next-generation Focus bodyshell. High-strength steels comprise 55 per cent of the bodyshell, and more than 26 per cent of the vehicle's structure is formed from ultra-high-strength and Boron steels.

These advanced materials help the structure meet the most stringent crash legislation across world markets, while minimising the vehicle's weight.

The structural integrity of the body shell is also reflected in its torsional rigidity, which is 10 per cent greater than the current European Focus.

This meticulous attention to detail is also reflected in Ford's global manufacturing strategy for the Focus, with consistent standards and processes being applied in every one of the assembly plants, wherever they are located in the world.

"We believe the new Ford Focus will provide consumers with an unmatched driving experience, together with an unrivalled ownership experience," said John Fleming. "The Focus brand always has been very special to Ford, and this new global model shows our commitment to developing another generation of exciting, appealing and class-leading cars."

by Steven J. Ewing (RSS feed) on Mar 3rd 2010 at 11:58AM


2012 Ford Focus Wagon

We'll be honest – we're all pretty excited about the 2012 Ford Focus as it's set to add new levels of refinement and technology to the booming C-segment in the United States. And while we're pleased to see the return of the five-door hatchback, we'd be lying if we said we weren't a bit jealous that other markets will be getting this haul-ready wagon variant.

Plans for bringing the wagon to the States haven't been completely ruled out, and executives have said that if market demand is there, Ford will answer (we've heard this one before). Still, Europe should be relatively impressed with the 2012 Focus Wagon, what with its new Kinetic design, optional MyFord Touch system, and a range of both petrol and diesel engines. Click through our attached gallery to see live shots of the not-for-U.S. Focus Wagon.


GLOBAL NEXT-GENERATION FORD FOCUS RANGE GROWS WITH ELEGANT WAGON DEBUT AT GENEVA

Next-generation global Ford Focus 5-door model makes European debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show; Global debut for attractive new wagon derivative
European-developed Focus spearheads Ford's new generation of global C-cars, and will be sold in more than 120 markets globally
Focus wagon is the latest of at least ten vehicles from Ford's new global C-car portfolio.
A global performance version of new Focus using Ford EcoBoost engine technology is promised.
New wagon derivative will account for more than one third of total Focus sales in Europe. Five-door share expected to reach around 60 per cent
Stylish next-generation Focus range provides customers with class-leading new technologies and high levels of craftsmanship
New Focus targets outstanding fuel economy, low CO2 and further advances in acclaimed levels of driving quality
European and North American production starts simultaneously in late 2010 and go on sale from early 2011. Asia, Africa and South America production to follow

Geneva, March 2, 2010 – The stylish next-generation Ford Focus wagon makes its global debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show alongside the sporty Focus 5-door, appearing for the first time in Europe.

The next-generation Focus wagon is the fifth vehicle to be revealed from Ford Motor Company's new global C-segment platform that will underpin at least ten vehicles around the world and account for two million units of annual production by 2012.

Revealed so far are the new Ford C-MAX and Grand C-MAX models at Frankfurt 2009, the next-generation Focus 4-door and 5-door cars at the 2010 North American International Auto Show, and now the wagon at Geneva.

"Our next generation of C-cars shows how Ford is using its global resources to develop at least ten new models or derivatives from the same platform globally," said Derrick Kuzak, Ford's group vice president of Product development. "The Focus wagon is the next model to be revealed, and is particularly significant for the European market as more than a third of our C-car customers here prefer a wagon bodystyle."

At Geneva, Ford is also confirming that a global performance vehicle will be developed as part of the next-generation Focus range, and that it will be powered by a version of the 4-cylinder Ford EcoBoost engine family.

"We want to reassure enthusiasts of Focus performance models that we have a plan for them as well," Kuzak added. "Our commitment is to deliver an exciting performance model of the new Focus on a global basis and using a version of our advanced new Ford EcoBoost petrol direct-injection turbo engine. We're not ready to reveal more details yet, but we recognise how important this model will be in the Focus line-up, particularly for customers in Europe."

Further details of the entire portfolio of new models based on Ford's global C-car platform will be revealed soon, with all of them coming into the company's line-up around the world by the end of 2012.

Focus wagon Targets Major Customer Base
The attractive next-generation Ford Focus wagon is a crucial model for the European market in particular, as around one third of all Focus customers choose this bodystyle. In some markets, such as Italy and Germany, the wagon derivative represents more than half of all Ford Focus cars sold.

"A key strength of the Ford Focus range in Europe has always been its wagon, and its popularity is second only to the five-door," said John Fleming, Ford of Europe Chairman and CEO. "These customers want the extra space and flexibility a traditional wagon provides, yet they still expect all of the technology, great driving dynamics, and superb styling. We believe the new Focus wagon will more than satisfy their requirements in every way."

With its rakish appearance, the new Focus wagon also makes a design statement and provides the ideal balance of dynamic looks and functional practicality. Full-length integrated roof rails enhance the wagon's attractive kinetic design, while the tailgate has a self-closing function and neatly incorporates a compact roof spoiler.

Overall, the C-car segment in Europe remains relatively stable and accounts for around a third of total car sales with roughly five million C-cars sold annually. Although many premium manufacturers have also moved into the segment in recent years, it is among the volume makers that the competition is most fierce.

The market has seen significant fragmentation in the last decade thanks to the development of new bodystyle derivatives beyond the traditional four-door sedan, five-door hatchback and wagon models.

By 2012, six bodystyles will cover 85 per cent of customer requirements in the segment in Europe - the four-door sedan, the five-door hatch, the wagon, the five-passenger MAV, seven-passenger MAV and the small SUV.

"As the segment develops around the world, we see clear preferences among customers for the six main bodystyles, with variations by region and even within a region," Kuzak said. "For example, the preferred bodystyle in China and Russia is the four-door sedan, while in Britain and Spain the five-door is most popular and we believe there is also a customer trend towards five-door small cars in North America.

"This is driving our global C-segment strategy and we are concentrating our efforts around the world on meeting the expectations of buyers for these six key bodystyles," Kuzak noted.
While the Focus wagon will initially launch only in Europe, it has been designed to share the wide range of technologies, fuel efficient powertrains, great driving quality and high levels of craftsmanship that all of Ford's new global C-cars will deliver.

The Focus wagon debuts in the same vibrant Candy Red body colour which was first shown to great acclaim on the new Focus five-door model unveiled at the North American International Motor Show in Detroit in January.

The five-door Focus model for Geneva is finished in a warm and modern Hot Mustard – a contemporary, dark metallic yellow colour.

"As with all of the models in our new global C-platform portfolio, there is scope to offer this dynamic wagon additionally in other markets around the world, provided the business case and customer demand exist," said John Fleming. "We see this as an integral part of our global next-generation Focus line-up, and we're eager to hear the reaction to what we believe is a very stylish and distinctive car."

by Jeremy Korzeniewski



Next-gen Ford Focus

It may not be an earth-shattering revelation or anything – Ford's own Jost Capito said about as much a couple weeks back – but Ford has reportedly confirmed at the Geneva Motor Show that it is merging its European and American high-performance divisions into one unit. First up on The Blue Oval's hi-po radar will be a hotted-up version of the new next-gen Focus.

Will the car carry an ST, RS or SVT badge? That we don't yet know. Nor do we know what engine will be powering the hot hatch, though our best guess (which goes along nicely with rumormill fodder) would be a four-cylinder EcoBoost. Perhaps Ford will find a few more ponies lurking within in its new 2.0-liter turbocharged and direct-injected mill. We'd also gladly take the Powershift six-speed dual clutch gearbox.

All-wheel or front-wheel drive? Dunno. Hatchback bodyshell? Probably, and we hope so. Sale date? No clue, but certainly not before 2011 hits and probably well into the year. Price? We'll see. Clearly, there are way more questions than answers at this point, but you can consider our interest officially piqued by the notion of a return to real performance from Ford's neglected (in the U.S. at least) Focus platform.

Ford Motor Co. has been named part of Fast Company’s Top 10 list of "Most Innovative" companies in Mobile technology –the only automaker to ever be recognized in the category. Sharing in the ranks are global brands like Google, Apple, and Amazon.

"This honor represents Ford’s commitment to innovation and development of technology that enhances the driving experience and adds real value to the consumer," said Mark Fields, Ford President, The Americas.

"We’re very proud of this recognition from Fast Company, and it is truly an accomplishment to be named amongst some of the leading technology innovators and mobile application developers."

Fast Company ranked Ford fifth in the mobile technology category for the introduction and evolution of SYNC, the industry-leading connectivity system co-developed with Microsoft, as well as the recent reveal of MyFord Touch, an innovative user interface that promises to redefine the in-car experience.

Ford SYNC was first introduced here in the Philippine market via the 2009 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer EL which hit Ford showrooms nationwide around this time last year.

Ford developed SYNC in response to the explosive growth potential of the mobile device and embarked on a strategy to build a software-based connectivity platform that could leverage the increasing power of the phone and improving data networks.

by Steven J. Ewing (RSS feed) on Feb 23rd 2010 at 3:58PM


Ford Ranger spy shots


Ford has done a lot of work over the past few years to really improve its F-Series line of pickups, in both standard F-150 and Super Duty forms. And while the Blue Oval's "Built Ford Tough" motto stands true to the latest and greatest versions of these pickups, the smaller Ranger has been greatly overlooked over the past decade.

These most recent spy shots show Ford's new Ranger, but don't get too excited. Despite the long-in-the-tooth truck's aging underpinnings and FoMoCo's push to standardize platforms with it's "One Ford" initiative, the all-new Ranger most likely won't make it to the States (despite our best hopes).

Our spies indicate that this new Ranger will be slightly larger than the version currently on sale in other markets, but that it's actually somewhat smaller than the truck currently sitting at U.S. dealerships. We think that may be a visual trick of the camouflage and the four-door configuration, however, as this vehicle is expected to be larger than the current North American model, as it will go on duty in countries where Ford doesn't offer the F-150. Still, should the Blue Oval perform an about-face and bring the truck to America, we don't think this would hinder Ford's overall sales too much, and this much-needed overhaul would make the model better positioned to compete with the likes of the Toyota Tacoma, as well as the Nissan Frontier/Suzuki Equator twins in markets abroad.

by Jeremy Korzeniewski (RSS feed) on Feb 19th 2010 at 3:32PM


2009 Ford Focus RS –

Our friends across the pond in Europe have always good things to say about the Ford Focus RS, leading to a great deal of angst in America since the Blue Oval Boys have never brought the hi-po Focus Stateside. News from Jost Capito, the man in charge of aligning Ford's performance divisions all around the globe, has us anxiously awaiting the time when that gross oversight is finally corrected.

Automobile recently got the chance to sit down and chat with Capito, and the conversation quickly turned to the new global Ford Focus platform that was recently unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show. According to Capito, Ford is still deciding what to call the next-gen high-performance Focus, saying only, "I don't see RS in Europe going away, and I don't see SVT in the U.S. going away."

Regardless of what it's called, we could very well see the speedy Focus take on multiple forms – similar to the path Ford has taken with the car in Europe with both a Focus ST and top-level RS. Previously, we heard rumors that a 240-horsepower Ecoboost-powered Focus ST could hit the scene within 18 months, followed by the latest RS, which could sport a 350-horsepower all-wheel drive hybrid powertrain, within the next three years.

Ford aims to align global performance vehicles

Filed under: Car News, Ford, Hatchbacks




When Derrick Kuzak was leading development of the 2000 Ford Focus, Jost Capito was charged with transforming the compact hatch into Europe’s hot Focus RS. Now that Kuzak is responsible for all Ford products globally, he’s called Capito up to oversee performance vehicles for all markets as the director of global performance vehicles and motorsport business.

Prior to joining Ford, Capito wrote himself an impressive resume in motorsports. He started with successful stints in motorcross and endurance motorocycle racing, but a 1985 win in the truck class of the Paris-Dakar Rally was the defining victory. In 1999, he joined the Sauber Formula One team as chief operating officer after serving with BMW and Porsche motorsports programs. He hired into Ford’s Cologne-based Team RS in 2001.

Now, Capito will align America’s SVT, Europe’s Team RS, and Australia’s FPV while establishing performance vehicles that can be sold on multiple continents. With products like the new Fiesta and Focus set to bow soon, we’re eager to see what tuned variants Ford will come up with.

In Europe you use the ST and RS monikers for performance vehicles, while it’s SVT here in America. What badge will these new performance vehicles wear?
We’re not finished with the nomenclature yet. I think we have two different things. We have regional performance vehicles and we have global performance vehicles. We are fully agreed on global performance vehicles, you need one nomenclature. We see that the RS already has got quite the following in the U.S., so there would be nothing wrong in calling it RS globally. Each car should have only one nomenclature [globally], but I don’t see RS in Europe going away, and I don’t see SVT in the U.S. going away.

Does the new global approach to performance vehicles mean we Americans are more likely to see a next-generation Ford Focus RS?
When you see the global vehicle lines, they offer the opportunity of global performance vehicles. The two generations of Focus we’ve had so far [internationally] were great bases for performance vehicles. The new Focus is the same, so there’s no reason if there’s one in Europe, it wouldn’t be here.

Could you offer two distinct performance trims in the U.S. like you do in the Europe?
I think the Mustang has that. I’d say that the GT is the first level of performance and the GT500 is the second level.

How about with a Focus?
I wouldn’t see a reason why not. I think there is room when you see there is a market. I am convinced this segment is growing. The VW GTI is the main competitor to the ST, and there’s the Mazdaspeed 3. The entry performance level of those kind of cars, they are absolutely everyday capable. They have no restrictions compared to a base vehicle, just adding the performance, the sportiness, the sound.

Could you make the case to sell a Fiesta RS and Focus RS at the same time?
To sell one at a time is never an issue. To do an RS, a lot of things have to come together. The industry has to be right, we have to have the right base vehicles, we have to have the right resources, we have to have the right economic clime that you can sell the vehicles. In Europe, we had the ST Fiesta and Focus in parallel, but that is entry-level performance and I think that’s a no-brainer and it’s a very easy answer.

With the RS, it’s an icon, and I’m convinced you shouldn’t just flush the market with RSes. The lesson we learned in Europe is that we shouldn’t do as many cars as we can sell. Our customers, they are really loyal RS customers and they need the car for everyday driving. It’s not their second car, it’s not their third car, and they always want to have the new RS. They can only afford that if they can sell their old RS for a good price. If you keep the RS limited, you keep the used price up so that the guys who are our traditional customers can fulfill their dream and get the new RS. That keeps the whole hype about RS going.

How strongly are your products tied to what’s available in the Ford parts bin?
If you can take an engine that’s already in the platform, it’s much easier, much more cost efficient. But our approach is not starting with, “What engine do we have?” Our approach is, “What should the car be?” and then we know the options and we look in the parts bin. If we have an engine in the platform and delivers what we define the car should deliver, then it’s fine. If there is no engine in the platform that delivers, then we have to look for something else.


(healy Ford would like to sell these!)

by Chris Shunk (RSS feed) on Feb 20th 2010 at 12:18PM


2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor

While we wholeheartedly love the F-150 SVT Raptor, part of us wondered whether there'd be many takers for a truck that was purpose-built for the sand dunes. Looks like we needn't have worried, as it appears demand is very strong for the Raptor. In fact, Ford had its flacks issue a press release bragging about just how successful the Raptor's been so far. The factory super-truck has reportedly found 5,300 takers to date, and F-150 marketing manager Mark Grueber says Raptor "is so popular that we actually wound up building more 5.4-liter V-8 models than we had originally anticipated."

The reason Ford thought customers might be interested in waiting to pull the trigger on a Raptor is the spring availability of the Dearborn, MI-based automaker's new 6.2-liter V8 engine. The new 6.2 promises 411 horsepower and 434 pound-feet of torque, or 91 more ponies than the soon-to-be-mothballed 5.4. Ford's already taking orders for the 6.2-liter model, and we're thinking they'll only increase in number over the coming weeks and months.

After filling out 5,300 orders, Ford also has a better idea of which amenities customers want in their Raptors, and the content story is a good one for the automaker. Ford reports that customers are checking option boxes for the luxury package, reverse-sensing camera and moonroof at a rate of at least 79 percent. Ford's expensive but fantastic touchscreen navigation with SIRIUS Travel Link™ is being chosen in 62 percent of Raptors sold. And while we loved the Raptor in Molten Orange, 52 percent of customers are opting for Tuxedo Black. Hit the jump pore over Ford's bragfest press release.

Did we mention that they were available at Healy Ford Sherwood Ford?
[Source: Ford]


PRESS RELEASE

DEARBORN, Mich., Feb. 19, 2010 – Customer demand for Ford's new F-150 SVT Raptor is moving nearly as fast as the world's only production high-speed off-road performance truck. Already, over 5,300 orders have been placed for the new performance pickup.

"We couldn't be more pleased with the popularity of the F-150 SVT Raptor," said Mark Grueber, F-150 Marketing manager. "Orders have exceeded our expectations. The truck is so popular that we actually wound up building more 5.4-liter V-8 models than we had originally anticipated. The order banks are now open for the all-new 6.2-liter V-8, and the orders keep rolling in."

The F-150 Raptor is the first ever high-speed off-road performance truck offered by any manufacture and highlights Ford's 33 years of truck leadership by emphasizing Built Ford Tough innovation and engineering. Developed with the DNA of an off-road pre-runner, the comprehensive modifications to the truck focused on chassis and suspension.

Built alongside the best-selling F-150 at Ford's Dearborn Truck Plant, the 2010 F-150 SVT Raptor was designed for the off-road performance market which has steadily grown in popularity over the past decade.

Raptor is powered by F-150's proven 5.4-liter Triton® V-8 three-valve engine, which delivers 320 horsepower and 390 ft.-lb. of torque. This spring, customers will have the added option of an all-new 6.2-liter V-8 engine, producing 411 horsepower and 434 ft.-lb. of torque – making Raptor the most powerful half-ton pickup on the market.

The appeal of the Ford's F-150 SVT Raptor extends beyond just desert runners. While the biggest markets for order so far are in the Southwest and Texas, demand also is high in states like Tennessee, Michigan, Colorado, Ohio and Georgia

Customers are showing an appreciation for Raptor's unparalleled off-road performance, as well as its many features. Options such as the luxury package, moonroof and reverse camera all have "take rates" of more than 79 percent. Popular F-150 utility options like touch-screen navigation with SIRIUS Travel Link™, trailer brake controller and Ford's tailgate step have take-rates higher than 62 percent.

The overwhelming top color choice has been Tuxedo Black for more than 52 percent of all orders, followed by Molten Orange, Oxford White and Blue Flame.

What does Ford Motor Company have in common with Google, Apple, and Amazon? Ford shares a spot with them on Fast Company’s Top 10 list of “Most Innovative” companies in Mobile technology, and becomes the first automaker to ever be recognized in the category.

Fast Company ranked Ford fifth in the mobile technology category for the introduction and evolution of SYNC, the industry-leading connectivity system co-developed with Microsoft, as well as the recent reveal of MyFord Touch, an innovative user interface that promises to redefine the in-car experience.

“The automaker has taken a great leap forward,” says Fast Company.

Ford developed SYNC in response to the explosive growth potential of the mobile device and embarked on a strategy to build a software-based connectivity platform that could leverage the increasing power of the phone and improving data networks. MyFord Touch expands on the system’s device connectivity features by delivering a graphical, touch, and voice-controlled user interface that maximizes SYNC’s capability and provides an intuitive and safer way for drivers to interact with the car.

In addition to introducing MyFord Touch at the recent 2010 International CES, Ford became the first automaker to announce hands-free command and control of smart phone apps. Pandora, Stitcher, and OpenBeak are the first to implement the SYNC Application Programming Interface (API), enabling drivers to voice control the apps through SYNC’s Bluetooth connection.

More information on SYNC and MyFord Touch can be found here or at www.media.ford.com.

Quotes

“This honor represents Ford’s commitment to innovation and development of technology that enhances the driving experience and adds real value to the consumer. We’re very proud of this recognition from Fast Company, and it is truly an accomplishment to be named amongst some of the leading technology innovators and mobile application developers.”

– Mark Fields, Ford President of The Americas


“Collaboration and strategic investment in open innovation have been keys to our success. Our relationship with Microsoft was just the beginning, as we’ve forged strong relationships throughout the mobile industry and look forward to even more.”

– Mark Fields, Ford President of The Americas

08:46 CAPTION By Carlos Osorio, AP



The next Explorer will likely be powered by an EcoBoost engine which is much more cost-effective than a hybrid, using direct-injection and turbocharging technologies.


As we were leaving Orlando yesterday, Drive On was haunted by an encounter with a particularly giddy Ford dealer. He had just come out of a closed-door meeting between executives and dealers, an upbeat session loaded with information about coming attractions at the National Automobile Dealers Association convention. Even though a planned Mercury small car got all the media attention, there was one new entrant that people couldn't stop talking about -- the 2011 Ford Explorer.

After a series of big introductions, with the new Taurus being the most recent, Ford has a secret weapon up its sheet-metal sleeve. The new Explorer is due to go on sale later this year, yet it hasn't shown up at any of the auto shows. All we have to go on are a few slim details:

It will be unibody, not another heavy, fuel-wasting body-on-frame design.
It will come with an incredibly fuel miserly powertrain, the four-cylinder EcoBoost turbocharged engine.
The look will probably roughly parallel the concept that Ford introduced at the Detroit auto show a couple of years ago, seen above, which was generally well received but didn't exactly set the world on fire.
A game changer?


If the new Explorer could combine 30-mile-a-gallon performance with all the good vibes that go with Explorer that was American's favorite family vehicle a decade ago, the brand could have its next mega-winner. Small crossovers are the hot segment -- and the new Explorer would be right-sized at being just a little bigger.

Jalopnik says the new Explorer will have an updated version of the same chassis used on today's Taurus, Flex and Lincoln MKS and MKT. "It'll be sized and shaped like an oversized, three-row (Ford) Edge ... with the spoiler across the back and everything," Jalopnik writes. There are few spy shots of the new Explorer tooling around the landscape.

Yet Drive On can't figure out why Ford is keeping the new Explorer under wraps for so long. The Dearborn crew has one last chance to roll it out before a lot of eyes -- the New York Auto Show in April. You'll be the first to know what we see.

The Ford Fiesta already is proving that it’s got the makings of a star, but now Ford’s new small car is serving as a vehicle to stardom for a few aspiring young artists. Three Fiestas are hitting the road with five young people in tow to promote Simon Fuller’s new reality show “If I Can Dream,” which follows the artists as they move to the Hollywood Hills looking for their big break.

The five artists include a musician, an actor, two actresses and a model, who will be mentored by the best in Hollywood while trying to make their dreams come true. All the while, their lives will be captured and streamed online in real-time, 24/7 on www.ificandream.com. It also will be available for TV viewers exclusively on Hulu, a Web site offering popular TV shows and movies from commercial networks.

Fiesta serves as the “sixth bedroom” of the show – it’s the artists’ primary way of transportation, and it is outfitted with three cameras so they can talk about their experiences through livestreaming.

The “If I Can Dream” tour will be visiting New York, Feb. 10-12; Boston, Feb. 14-15; Chicago, Feb. 16-17; Atlanta, Feb. 18; New Orleans, Feb. 19; Dallas, Feb. 21-22; Phoenix, Feb. 23; San Francisco, Feb. 24; and Los Angeles, Feb. 25.

Fiesta’s involvement with “If I Can Dream” builds on the success of the Fiesta Movement, a social media initiative that generated more than 6 million YouTube views, nearly 740,000 Flickr views and more than 3.7 million Twitter impressions. The Fiesta Movement and test drive program have resulted in more than 100,000 handraisers.

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

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

Already more than 6,000 consumers have made reservations for the Ford Fiesta – half of them from non-Ford customers – and more than 100,000 handraisers are showing an interest in the new fuel-efficient car. Customers can begin placing their order for the new Fiesta today through their local Ford dealer.

Quote
“This is the perfect way for people across the country to connect with the Fiesta and the ‘If I Can Dream’ artists. Not only will they get to see the Fiesta up close, but they’ll get to meet the artists on the first part of this exciting journey.”
– Connie Fontaine, Ford Brand Content and Alliances Manager

Thinking about replacing that crusty old mini-van, and want a new ride that your spouse and kids won’t groan about getting into? According to Kelley Blue Book’s editors there are 10 family haulers that deserve your consideration, and here are three of their favorites: the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid, 2010 Ford Taurus and 2010 Ford Flex.


“While the product landscape in the new-car world seems ever-changing, the vehicle needs of the typical American family remain fairly constant; capable versatility, value, safety and economical factors usually remain top-of-mind,” said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com.

“Best hybrid experience on the road”


Nerad says the Ford Fusion Hybrid is a top pick for families because it saves money at the pump, keeps everyone entertained with the latest Ford SYNC® technology, and scores high in terms of ride and handling.

“The Ford Fusion Hybrid doesn’t scream its hybrid-ness to the multitudes,” he said. “Instead, it provides what many of us at Kelley Blue Book feel is the best hybrid experience on the road. We love the way the Fusion Hybrid rides and handles, and we applaud its innovative dash and environmental credentials.”

“A visually striking technological tour de force”



Nerad says customers in the market for a family car should also consider the Ford Taurus because it delivers features that American families will appreciate.

“What was once merely a competent full-size sedan has transformed into a visually striking technological tour de force,” he said. “With features uncommon in its segment, a roomy cabin, cavernous trunk, and nimbleness that belies its size, the redesigned Ford Taurus is a family car that pleases everyone, including the driver.”

“A great transcontinental family tourer”


Nerad says if the editors of Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com had to pick an overall winner from the “Top 10 Family Cars for 2010,” the Ford Flex might get the nod.

“The Ford Flex leaves plain-vanilla crossovers behind with its distinctive styling, and it has all the comfort and convenience features required to be a great transcontinental family tourer while performing equally well in getting the kids to softball practice,” he said. “It drives better than some midsize sedans, offers comfortable seating for seven, and boasts a long list of available interior amenities including an array of infotainment features and even a small refrigerator.”

For more information about the “Top 10 Family Cars for 2010” from Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com, visit www.kbb.com/Top10FamilyCars.