by Jeremy Korzeniewski on Dec 17th, 2009 at 8:59PM


2010 Ford Mustang GT

Thanks to a loose-lipped Facebookian that couldn't help sharing insider information and a quick follow-up post from Inside Line, we can now confirm the return of the iconic 5.0-liter Mustang GT for 2011. Even better news is the fact that the Mustang GT's new mill will crank out an impressive 412 horsepower.

By way of comparison, the 2010 Chevy Camaro SS has a 6.2-liter V8 with as much as 422 horses when mated to a six-speed manual and the 2010 Dodge Challenger SRT8 has a 6.1-liter Hemi that offers 425 ponies. And remember, both of those rivals are considerably heavier than the Mustang.

As much as we'd like to unload more goods on the 2011 Mustang, you'll just have to wait until Ford's good and ready. Or someone blows another embargo, whichever comes first.

Jamie LaReau
Automotive News | December 8, 2009 - 1:41 pm EST
DETROIT -- Ford Motor Co. has designed a new transmission for its 2011 Super Duty pickup that will achieve “significant” performance and fuel economy improvements over the current five-speed automatic, a top Ford engineer said today.

The truck goes on sale next spring. It will have a new body, Ford's first in-house designed diesel V-8 truck engine and a new six-speed automatic transmission.

“It's a clean sheet; it is not an evolution of the current product,” said Dick Boerema, Ford engineering manager, during a Web conference. “We're going to be significantly improved over what's available today.”

Boerema declined to give fuel economy estimates for the truck other than to say it will be “very competitive.”

The EPA does not require fuel economy estimates to be given on the window sticker because heavy-duty pickup trucks are in a different weight class and do not have to conform to passenger-car standards.

Ford will announce more details on the fuel economy of the truck as it gets closer to launch.

Derrick Kuzak, Ford's global product chief, has committed Ford to fuel economy leadership in every segment. But engineers stopped short of saying the 2011 Super Duty trucks would top General Motors and Chrysler products' fuel economy.

“Testing continues, and it continues to look very good,” Boerema said. “The market will be very happy with the end result for fuel economy.”

Ford can use the same base transmission in gasoline and diesel trucks.

Ford engineers benchmarked the GM Allison transmission used in heavy-duty versions of the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra. Ford's new transmission uses a one-piece case that saves 25 pounds compared with the GM transmission that uses a three-piece case.

The transmission has two novel features. It can be made to mimic a manual transmission. It also has what engineers call a “live drive” power takeoff. That enables auxiliary equipment, such a salt spreader, to be used while the truck is stationary.



The Ford 2011 Super Duty pickup will have a new body, Ford's first in-house designed diesel V-8 truck engine and a new six-speed automatic transmission.


PRINTED FROM: http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/a ... e=printart

12/07/2009, 11:26 AMBy Drew Johnson

We’ve just caught a 2011 Ford Explorer prototype with some of the camouflage peeled away and managed to get off a few frames before it was hastily recovered. We’re now able to see the cutline of the rear door, the shape of the rear glass and the chrome door handles you can expect to see on all four doors.

We can see the rear doors on the new Explorer are not nearly as squared-off as the current model. The cutline of the rear door also seems to reinforce the rumors we’ve heard of the new Explorer having a C pillar very similar to the recently discontinued Taurus X.

Code-named “U502,” this all-new Ford Explorer is in for a big change. While Ford’s iconic SUV has always ridden on a body-on-frame chassis, the 2011 model will switch to the D4 unibody platform. Ford’s D4 platform, a moderately updated version of the D3, currently underpins the Ford Flex and Lincoln MKT. Ford is hoping for a significant weight drop, and in turn, 20-25% better fuel mileage, by switching the Explorer to a unibody setup.

The two powertrains we have confirmed for the Explorer are the 2.0L 4-cylinder Ecoboost and the regular, non-turbocharged 3.5L V6. While the twin-turbo, Ecoboost V6 could still find its way into the Explorer sometime after launch, it may only be part of police of package.

Under the camouflage, we can see a typical Ford 3-bar grille. You also get a look at an impressive pair of projector headlights and trick set of LED taillights.

On the inside, expect 3 rows of seats, with the third row being jump seats.

One thing you should not expect with this new Explorer is a Mercury or Lincoln variant. We’ve also learned there will be no Sport Trac model. Watch for production to start in the second half of 2010 at Chicago’s Torrence Avenue assembly plant.

J.D.
by Jonny Lieberman (RSS feed) on Dec 7th 2009 at 9:59AM



Not only does Ford rank number one on J.D. Power and Associate's 2009 navigation system survey, it ranks number two as well. The top ranking system, according to Power's study, is the one found in the Lincoln MKS, followed by a nearly identical system (if not 100% identical) in the Ford Flex. And get this, Ford took down five of the top ten spots with the F-150 coming in fourth and the Escape and Edge taking seventh and eighth place, respectively.

To anyone that's driven a modern Sync-equipped Ford with navigation, these survey results probably won't come as any sort of shock, as FoMoCo has been making some of the best systems in the business ever since they released Sync with Sirius Travel Link. Here's what Ford user interface design engineer Jason Johnson had to tell us about why Ford got ranked tops:

"I think what really makes our system stand out is the fact it's designed with the user in mind. Yes, it has all the features you'd expect from a high-level navigation system -- the 3-D maps, the digital jukebox, the customizable home screens, and of course we pride ourselves on SYNC and SIRIUS Travel Link -- but it's more than that. This system is easy to use. It's intuitive. The buttons are where you'd expect them to be, the grouping is logical and the graphics are bright and easy to read. Everything is integrated, so it all works together, simply and easily."
Non-Ford top ten nav-system finishers include the Acura TL (third), Porsche 911 (fifth), Cadillac CTS (sixth), Hyundai Genesis (ninth) and Infiniti FX-series (tenth). Interestingly, Ford is the only non-luxury/premium brand to make it into the top ten. If you were wondering, seven of the bottom ten nav-systems were made by Toyota, with the Avalon finishing dead last. Complete results list and official press release available after the jump.
[Source: J.D. Power]



PRESS RELEASE:

J.D. Power and Associates Reports:
Popularity of Real-Time Traffic and Voice Recognition Features in Navigation Systems Increases

The Clarion Navigation System Supplied to the Lincoln MKS
Ranks Highest among Factory-Installed Navigation Systems

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif.: 1 December 2009 - Real-time traffic and voice recognition are becoming increasingly popular features among factory-installed navigation system owners, compared with 2008, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2009 Navigation Usage and Satisfaction StudySM released today.

The study finds that 26 percent of owners report having a factory-installed navigation system equipped with real-time traffic capabilities-twice the proportion of owners in 2008 who said the same. Among owners whose systems do not currently have the real-time traffic feature, nearly 80 percent report interest in having the option in the future. Real-time traffic capability has a considerable impact on overall navigation system satisfaction, as satisfaction averages 8.1 (on a 10-point scale) among owners with the feature, compared with 7.3 among those without.

Approximately 60 percent of owners report having voice recognition on their factory-installed navigation system. Among those owners who do not currently have the feature, two-thirds of respondents express an interest in having it in the future. Overall navigation system satisfaction is positively impacted by the presence of voice recognition. Among owners who report having the feature, satisfaction averages 7.7 compared with an average of 7.2 among owners of systems without voice recognition technology.

"Among the 10 navigation systems with the highest levels of customer satisfaction, all of them have real-time traffic capabilities, and a majority are equipped with voice recognition-underlining the positive effect these advanced features have on overall navigation system satisfaction," said Mike Marshall, director of automotive emerging technologies at J.D. Power and Associates. "With 39 percent of consumers in the study reporting that they would have purchased another vehicle if navigation wasn't available (up from 31 percent in 2006) there is a growing segment of automotive consumers who are driven by technology. Integrating and delivering advanced user-facing technology in vehicles will continue to gain importance among manufacturers fighting for market share."

Now in its 11th year, the study identifies six factors that contribute to overall customer satisfaction. In order of importance, they are: ease of use; system routing; system appearance; voice directions; navigation display screen; and speed of system. The study also measures quality by examining problems per 100 (PP100) navigation systems, in which a lower score reflects higher quality.

The Clarion navigation system supplied to the Lincoln MKS ranks highest in consumer satisfaction with factory-installed navigation systems and performs particularly well with the ease of use factor. The Clarion navigation system supplied to the Ford Flex follows in the rankings, while the Pioneer navigation system in the Acura TL ranks third.

The study also finds the following navigation system trends:

* More than one-half of respondents report using their system on a regular basis (at least one to two times per week).
* Among consumers who have previously owned a vehicle equipped with a factory-installed navigation system, approximately 80 percent say that their current system is performing at the same level or better than their previous system.
* Approximately one-fourth of consumers say they believe that an annual update for mapping software is necessary and would be willing to pay an average price of $57 for updates.

The 2009 Navigation Usage and Satisfaction Study is based on responses from 16,939 owners who recently purchased or leased new 2009 model-year vehicles with factory-installed navigation systems. The study was fielded in October 2009.

About J.D. Power and Associates
Headquartered in Westlake Village, Calif., J.D. Power and Associates is a global marketing information services company operating in key business sectors including market research, forecasting, performance improvement, Web intelligence and customer satisfaction. The company's quality and satisfaction measurements are based on responses from millions of consumers annually. For more information on car reviews and ratings, car insurance, health insurance, cell phone ratings, and more, please visit JDPower.com. J.D. Power and Associates is a business unit of The McGraw-Hill Companies.

About The McGraw-Hill Companies
Founded in 1888, The McGraw-Hill Companies (NYSE: MHP) is a leading global information services provider meeting worldwide needs in the financial services, education and business information markets through leading brands such as Standard & Poor's, McGraw-Hill Education, Platts, Capital IQ, J.D. Power and Associates, McGraw-Hill Construction and Aviation Week. The Corporation has more than 280 offices in 40 countries. Sales in 2008 were $6.4 billion. Additional information is available at http://www.mcgraw-hill.com/.

No advertising or other promotional use can be made of the information in this release without the express prior written consent of J.D. Power and Associates. www.jdpower.com/corporate

Section: Driving
Byline: Bob Mchugh
Column: Auto View



Our calendar hasn't flipped over to 2010 and Ford has already pulled the wraps off the 2011 Ford Mustang at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
The iconic modern-era Ford with a legion of fervent fans, Mustang will gallop into the next decade with more power, use less fuel and it will also come with a hoard of other modifications.
A smaller displacement all-aluminum 3.7-litre quad-cam V-6 that can produce 305 horsepower will be the new base engine and it's expected to consume less than 8.0 L/100km of gas on the highway. Ford also promises a behind-the-wheel feel that's unlike any Mustang produced.
The styling retains the traditional look of the mid-sixties original, but there are some aerodynamic improvements. There's a new front fascia, tire spats on the rear wheels, modified underbody shields, a taller air dam and a rear deck lid seal has been added.
The aerodynamic improvements are designed mainly to improve fuel economy, but also adjust the vehicle's front/rear lift balance. It apparently will track more securely and feels more "planted" to the road at higher speeds.
The transmission choices will be a new six-speed manual, which also takes some responsibility for the fuel economy improvement, or a six-speed automatic. A limited-slip differential will be standard and there are suspension revisions to improve handling.
The automatic transmission will feature a grade-assist or "hill mode." This innovation uses various vehicle inputs to determine the correct gear ratio on an incline or a decline. It extends lower gear operation on an uphill climb and provides engine braking on the way down.
New technology and convenience features include: Standard integrated spotter mirrors; a message centre; the MyKey programmable key; and Universal Garage Door Opener. The biggest shift in the advanced-tech area is a switch to Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS).

Reduced steering effort at parking lot speeds and improved highway feel with more precise steering and handling are the main benefits of EPAS. It's also quieter than belt-driven power steering assist and draws less engine power, which again saves fuel.
The EPAS system will automatically help eliminate minor driving annoyances. Pull-Drift Compensation makes steering adjustments to compensate for crosswinds and minor road crowning. Something called Active Nibble Control helps eliminate steering wheel "shimmy" at high speeds when a wheel is slightly out of balance or a brake rotor is warped.
Inside, there are new instrument panel graphics and a tachometer that reads to 8,000 rpm matches the free-revving spirit of the new engine. New door seals and extra soundproofing reduce road noise while the engine's tuned intake and exhaust make a sound that Mustang buyers are expected to enjoy.
This brings us back to the centre-piece of the 2011 makeover of Mustang, the high-output Ti-VCT V-6 engine, which employs variable control of valve operation across its rev range. The cams operate on a Direct Acting Mechanical Bucket (DAMB) valve train that uses low-friction polished buckets and roller finger followers.
The result is a three-per-cent improvement in fuel economy and a 10-per-cent improvement in power output versus traditional engines. A cold air induction system and dual exhaust complement the free-revving 3.7-litre that has a 7,000 rpm redline. A deep-sump oil pan also provides extended 16,000-mile oil change intervals.
The all-American 2011 Ford Mustang will be built at the Auto Alliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Mich. The new 3.7-litre V-6 will be built at Ford's recently retooled Cleveland Engine Plant No. 1.
Illustrations: The 2011 Ford Mustang V-6 is expected to consume less than 8.0 L/100km on the highway with a six-speed automatic transmission.
• V-6 Mustangs will come standard with new instrument panel graphics, including a tachometer that reads to 8,000 rpm.
• Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT), found in the 2011 Mustang V-6, uses electronic solenoid valves to direct high-pressure oil to control vanes in each of the camshaft sprocket housings.

By Staff Report
Published: December 3, 2009



•Ford responds to customers’ desire for warmth in colder months with new factory-installed remote start system and heated steering wheel for the 2011 model year
•Ford’s remote start system, when combined with automatic climate control, will gauge the temperature and quickly achieve a comfortable cabin environment. Heating, heated seats and defrost activate on colder days; air conditioning, cooled seats kick in when the weather is warm
•Ford engineers calculate that using a remote start system could help reduce hydrocarbon, CO and nitrogen oxides emissions by up to 75 percent, since it preheats the catalyst on cold starts (where up to 95 percent of emissions typically occur), prior to those first few accelerations
•Ford’s remote start factory option quickly will be offered across the entire Ford, Lincoln and Mercury lineup after launching on the 2011 Ford Super Duty next spring; the heated steering wheel option debuts on the 2011 Lincoln MKX
DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 3, 2009 – Ford, responding to increasing consumer demand, is heating up its vehicle lineup with winter-weather options including a factory-installed remote start system and heated steering wheel.

The remote start system will debut on the 2011 Ford Super Duty next spring and eventually will be offered across the Ford, Lincoln and Mercury lineup. Also next year, Lincoln will begin offering customers a heated steering wheel option, which will be available first on the new 2011 Lincoln MKX.

Ford has been offering a dealer-installed remote start kit since the late 1990s that has proven popular with customers. The kits rank as one of the top three Genuine Ford Accessories sold nationally for the past five years. In the past year, sales have increased 40 percent since Ford started installing the dealer remote starter kits at modification centers located near assembly plants.

The new factory option comes in response to strong customer demand. A recent J.D. Power Emerging Technology Study found 90 percent of customers would prefer remote start systems be factory-installed.

“What was once a feature only available on luxury cars or in the aftermarket is now becoming a factory-installed option for Ford customers,” said Michael Kan, research and development engineer with Ford Customer Service Division (FCSD). “Customers want the peace of mind that comes with a factory-installed option; now Ford is meeting this demand with a high-quality, affordable solution.”

The new factory-installed remote start, when integrated with the available automatic climate control system, measures the temperature and quickly creates a comfortable atmosphere with heating or air conditioning, heated or cooled front seats, and the front and rear defroster if needed.

“When you jump in a Ford car or truck, no matter the weather, it’s ready to go,” said Lisa Boran, a technical expert with Ford Body and Security Electronics. “We’ve been able to integrate these two features to improve upon the traditional remote start system.”

Improved emissions performance
Customers can also feel good about their decision to preheat or precook their ride, says Ford powertrain engineers and emission experts. Although remote start systems have been given a bad emissions rap in the past, it’s not true that leaving a car at idle pumps more hydrocarbons, CO and nitrogen oxides into the air.

John Shanahan, manager, Ford Powertrain Feature Calibration, explains: “The vast majority of a vehicle’s emissions are made during the drive-away after the car is started. Once the catalyst is warmed up, it will convert up to 99 percent of the engine-out emissions into less harmful gases. With remote start, along with getting the passenger compartment comfortable, you’re warming the catalyst while the vehicle is in neutral with lighter loads on the engine. We employ engine control features that maximize the catalyst warm-up, even if the engine is only idling. This will result in a more active catalyst when you drive away.”

That warmed-up catalyst can represent up to a 75 percent emissions reduction, depending on how cool the catalyst is and how hard the driver accelerates those first few times after a typical engine start.

Hot wheels
The heated steering wheel option coming to the Lincoln lineup is also about responding to customer needs, said Cole Buccafurri, Ford’s feature and branding manager. “Market research told us that a heated steering wheel was something our target Lincoln customer was definitely interested in,” he noted.

Throw aside the market research, the biological fact is that the human body functions better when it’s warm. The body’s initial response to cold is to preserve heat by reducing the blood flow to the hands and feet. For those who live in a winter-weather area, it’s that familiar tingle or numbness felt when hands and feet start getting cold.

That reduced blood supply equates to reduced dexterity in the fingers and hands, for example, which can hinder performance of simple tasks, such as screwing in a light bulb, opening a door or steering a vehicle out of a tight parking spot. A warm interior and a toasty steering wheel may also eliminate the need for heavy gloves while driving, which can further reduce tactile sensitivity and dexterity.

Warm my ride
Ford currently offers two dealer-installed remote start options: a one-way system, which will remotely start the vehicle from a key fob from up to 1,000 feet away; and a two-way, bidirectional option, in which the vehicle transmits a signal back to the fob verifying the start-up.
Launching later this month is an optional system that’s compatible with the Intelligent Access with Push Button Start system available on the 2010 Ford Taurus and Lincoln MKS, soon followed by the factory-installed system.

The 2011 Lincoln MKX will be first to offer the heated steering wheel option, and when combined with the factory-installed remote start system, it will also activate the heat on the steering wheel for that warm-to-the-touch winter morning welcome.

“Ford’s vehicles are constantly becoming more advanced,” said FCSD’s Kan. “So we’re always adapting and changing our product to keep up.”

by Chris Shunk at 7:00PM


We love award season, even if it is a bit tough to keep up with them all. Motor Trend has a set of golden calipers for its Car, Truck and SUV of the Year winners. Car and Driver has its 10Best. Automobile has the, well, the Automobile of the Year. Then there's Edmunds Inside Line and its six Most Wanted winners. Sure, Most Wanted doesn't enjoy the same sort of name recognition as the aforementioned awards, but at the very least, we tend to like the vehicles IL picks as their favorites. We also appreciate the fact that their selection process isn't exactly chock-full of rules. If they tested the vehicle before November 1, 2009, then it's eligible for Inside Line's six shooter. The only award category that truly stands out is the "Instant Classic," an award won over the last two years by the Audi R8 and the Nissan GT-R, respectively.

This year's list didn't have quite the raw power of last year's winners, but we can definitely see where the final six could be considered big fun on four wheels. The big winner is the 2010 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500. The 540-horsepower pony car picked up IL's Instant Classic award for being such a willing dance partner – even at 3,900 pounds. In fact, Blue Oval badges dominate this year's Most Wanted list, as the EcoBoost'd Flex and the wicked cool F-150 SVT Raptor made the final cut. Porsche scored with its new Panamera, while Audi found its way back on the list with the R8 V10. The cheap thrills Mazda3 rounds out this year's list.

By AMY WILSON, AUTOMOTIVE NEWS


A picture of Ford Fiesta


FordWhen the 2011 Ford Fiesta launches, it will be missing one of Ford Motor Co.'s most promoted technologies. But an EcoBoost engine is on the horizon for the new subcompact.

“It's coming,” Derrick Kuzak, Ford group vice president of global product development, told Automotive News.

The Fiesta will go on sale next summer, powered by a naturally aspirated, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 119 hp and 109 pounds-feet of torque. A turbocharged, direct-injection engine--hallmarks of the EcoBoost name--will come later, but Kuzak wouldn't say when.

Ford has confirmed it will launch a 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine beginning in the European Ford C-Max in 2010. It's unclear whether the EcoBoost engine for the U.S. Fiesta will be 1.6 liters or smaller. In Europe, the Fiesta is available with naturally aspirated gasoline engines with displacements of 1.6, 1.4 and 1.25 liters.

By 2012, Ford says it will produce 1.3 million EcoBoost engines globally, including 750,000 in the United States. By 2013, EcoBoost is on tap to be available in 90 percent of Ford's global vehicle



Read more: http://www.autoweek.com/article/2009120 ... z0YyhpGbBg

DEARBORN -- The 2010 Ford Taurus and the 2010 Ford F-Series Super Duty have earned Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com Best Resale Value Awards for the full-size car and full-size pickup categories respectively. The awards, announced today at the L.A. Auto Show, honor vehicles expected to maintain the greatest proportion of their original list price after five years of ownership and are designed to help consumers make more informed car-buying decisions.

“Sticker price is not the only number to consider when buying a new vehicle. Resale value also is an important consideration,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “This recognition from the editors of Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com affirms Ford’s commitment to delivering quality vehicles that will hold their value for years to come.”

Editors of Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com say depreciation can be the largest expense faced in the first five years of driving a vehicle.

“Taking the time to research and choose vehicle makes, models and options now can help new-car shoppers keep additional money in their pocket down the road when they go to sell or trade in the vehicle,” said James Bell, executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com.


2010 Ford Taurus, Best Resale Value Full-Size Car Category
According to Bell, editors of Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com tapped the 2010 Ford Taurus to win this year’s Best Resale Value Award in the full-size car category because it offers “a great combination of value, technology and style all wrapped up into a very good price.”

“We think the 2010 Ford Taurus is an excellent redo of a venerable Ford nameplate,” said Bell. “It’s the kind of vehicle that we believe will catch on in the marketplace, and therefore, its resale value should also do very well.”

Taurus Marketing Manager Pei-Wen Hsu agrees that it is the quality, style and class-exclusive technologies available with the all-new Ford Taurus that sets the vehicle apart from the competition.

“Quality translates directly into a great resale value and people trust the durability of Taurus,” she said. “Style also impacts how well a vehicle will retain its value, and people really like the design of the new Taurus. They love it new, and they will still love to drive it as a used car.”

In addition to its attractive design, the 2010 Ford Taurus offers 10 class-exclusive technologies not available from any other manufacturer, such as Ford SYNC®, Voice-Activated Navigation System with SIRIUS Travel Link™, Easy Fuel® Capless Fuel-Filler System, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross Traffic Alert and MyKey™.

“All of our class-exclusive technologies enhance the resale value of the 2010 Taurus,” said Hsu. “Taurus has democratized technology, bringing advanced technology never before seen in this segment.”

The new Taurus also is a proven leader in safety, earning a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

2010 Ford F-Series Super Duty, Best Resale Value Full-Size Pickup Category
“People today are buying pickup trucks for what they should be used for – which is for work, for getting jobs done and for playing with big toys,” said Bell. “We feel that the Super Duty really captures that ‘Get the job done’ spirit and that it will certainly hold its value over time.”

Super Duty Marketing Manager Brian Rathsburg says quality metrics for the 2010 Super Duty have been on a steady uphill climb, further confirming the vehicle’s position as the benchmark in the heavy-duty pickup segment from the industry’s truck sales leader.

“The quality message resonates extremely well with our customers because the Super Duty is used primarily as a work truck,” explained Rathsburg. “So if the truck’s not working, it’s not enabling the customer to make money.”

Rathsburg says the all-new Ford-designed, Ford-engineered and Ford-built 6.7-liter Power Stroke® V-8 turbocharged diesel and 6.2-liter V-8 gasoline engines that will be introduced in the 2011 Super Duty next spring, deliver significantly improved torque and horsepower as well as enhanced fuel economy, enabling best-in-class towing and payload.

“This is especially important to our diesel customers, who represent 60 percent of the total Super Duty market,” he said. “Customers expect diesel engines to last a long time.”

Bell says another factor strengthening the resale value of Super Duty is Ford Work Solutions™, a suite of productivity technologies developed for the commercial truck owner that was recently recognized as “Outstanding Feature” by the Texas Auto Writers Association.

“It’s unique in the marketplace,” said Bell. “Ford Work Solutions is something that’s definitely going to provide an advantage and benefit over time.”

Los Angeles -- The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid today was named Most Environmentally Progressive Car of the Year by Earth, Wind & Power™ (EWP) at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

The award is designed to recognize vehicles driven by a power source that helps to reduce global warming, are conducive to promoting a cleaner environment, and support the mission to achieve energy through alternative sources.

“Ford’s Fusion Hybrid sedan has the styling punch of a powerhouse with authority built into the design,” said Kevin Smith, editorial director of Edmunds.com and one of 19 national automotive editors and journalists who selected the winner of the EWP award. “With unsurpassed fuel economy, this car has real ecological know-how. We call it purity on wheels.”

The all-new Ford Fusion Hybrid delivers an EPA 41 mpg rating in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, which tops the Toyota Camry hybrid by 8 mpg in the city and 2 mpg on the highway.

“Ford has worked diligently to make the Fusion Hybrid America’s most fuel-efficient midsize sedan,” said Jonathan Richards, Fusion marketing manager. “It is very gratifying to see our hard work recognized by some of the most prominent automotive journalists in the country through the EWP award.”
The Ford Fusion Hybrid has been a strong seller since its introduction earlier this year. Hybrid sales account for almost 20 percent of total Fusion retail sales, and the majority of those sales have been to customers coming from import brands – mostly Toyota and Honda.

According to early 2010 survey data obtained in the 2009 U.S. Global Quality Research System (GQRS), the Fusion Hybrid has the highest customer satisfaction ratings of any Ford vehicle ever. The survey was conducted for Ford Motor Company by RDA Group of Bloomfield Hills, Mich.

In addition to the EWP award, the Ford Fusion Hybrid was recently named one of CAR and DRIVER’s “10Best” cars for 2010, and the entire Fusion lineup was honored with the prestigious MOTOR TREND 2010 Car of the Year Award®.

LOS ANGELES -- Runners, surfers and triathletes, take note. The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid and 2010 Lincoln MKT are the perfect choice for people with active lifestyles, according to the Active Lifestyle Vehicle of the Year awards.

The Fusion Hybrid took the title in the “green” category and MKT won in the “luxury on road” group, beating out the 2010 Toyota Prius and 2009 Audi Q5, respectively.

“The MKT and Fusion Hybrid were both vying in extremely competitive categories, and that speaks to the versatility and quality of the product, that it beat out all the competitive entries,” said Nina Russin, Active Lifestyle Vehicle jury coordinator. “The designers dealt with ergonomic challenges in the case of both vehicles. The standard safety available also was impressive because that’s tremendously important to people with active lifestyles.”

The Fusion Hybrid delivers a class-leading 41 mpg rating in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, topping the Toyota Camry hybrid by 8 mpg in the city and 2 mpg on the highway. It also offers innovative new technology – SmartGauge™ with EcoGuide – that coaches hybrid drivers to maximize fuel efficiency.

“Many Fusion customers have a very active lifestyle, often including outdoor athletic activities. They want a vehicle that supports their ‘On the go’ spirit and the Fusion delivers,” said Chantel Lenard, group marketing manager, global small and midsize cars.

The 2010 Lincoln MKT, a three-row luxury crossover, delivers the optimal blend of distinctive design, interior spaciousness, fuel economy and technology. MKT offers abundant technologies aimed at making life luxurious for both the driver and three rows of passengers, including Active Park Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control and EasyFuel® Capless Fuel-Filler System.

“MKT is versatile enough for any athlete. With plenty of cargo space for gear and three rows of seating for teammates or friends, we’ve got any sport covered,” said Kate Pearce, Lincoln MKT marketing manager. “It also has the functionality of an SUV and the technology of a luxury sedan to get you where you need to go in comfort and style.”

About the Active Lifestyle Vehicle awards
The awards program, now in its sixth year, recognizes new cars and trucks that best meet the needs of active buyers. The program is sponsored by AAA and the Active Network.

Twenty manufacturers participated in the 2010 competition, entering vehicles in seven categories. A panel of 12 automotive journalists drove the initial field of entries and pared the group down to 28 finalists.

Athletes on hand included members of Team Aquaphor, Active Network Media and the San Diego Triathlon Club, participating in sports that ranged from surfing and sprint triathlons to ultra-distance running. The athletes’ votes weighed 50 percent in the final tally, with jury panel votes comprising the remaining 50 percent.


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LOS ANGELES -- The hot-selling 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor just got hotter as it has been awarded 4x4 of the Year by Petersen’s 4-Wheel & Off-Road magazine. This is the third award for the off-road performance truck, which went on sale in August.

Since its initial world debut in late 2008, the F-150 SVT Raptor high-speed off-road performance truck has been a hit. The Dearborn Truck Plant has been building the truck at maximum capacity to fulfill orders, and the media have been giving it stellar reviews and awards based on its off-road performance and daily drivability.

“This truck can handle anything the off-road world can dish out,” stated Doug Scott, truck group marketing manager. “The F-150 SVT Raptor has been a fantastic halo for the F-150 line, with capabilities far beyond what any other manufacturer currently offers.”

Vehicles were judged on a 1,000-mile trail that evaluated the suspension, engine, transmission, transfer case and styling, and of course, off-road performance. F-150 SVT Raptor beat out three competitors, including the Dodge Ram 2500 Power Wagon, Hummer H3T Alpha and Toyota 4Runner Trail.

Jost Capito, director of global performance vehicles and motorsports business development, added, “Ford’s Special Vehicle Team (SVT) worked very closely with FOX Racing Shox and BFGoodrich to give the F-150 immense off-road capability, while still being civil on pavement.”

He continued, “Even though the truck is focused on high speed, we took into account all aspects of off-road driving during development. This award is proof that the F-150 SVT Raptor is a well-rounded performer.”

“The Ford F-150 SVT Raptor pickup handily won this year’s test, despite being pitted against top-of-the-line competition,” said Rick Péwé, editor-in-chief of Petersen’s 4-Wheel & Off-Road. “The pickup consistently placed well ahead of the competition in most areas, and great value and fun factors sent it over the top. Basic, solid construction gave us the confidence to take the truck wherever we wanted.” As one judge noted, “It looks cool, drives fast, and seems to take whatever you throw at it.”

Earlier this year, the F-150 SVT Raptor received a 2010 Automotive Excellence Award: Best Off-Road Ability from Popular Mechanics magazine. The F-150 SVT Raptor also helped power the F-150 lineup to win the prestigious Truck of Texas award from the Texas Auto Writers Association.

Available in early 2010, an all-new 6.2-liter V-8 producing 411 horsepower and 434 ft.-lb. of torque will be available in the F-150 SVT Raptor. This new engine will make Raptor the most powerful half-ton pickup available. Customers will have the choice of two V-8 engines – Ford’s proven 5.4-liter Triton® V-8 or the new 6.2-liter V-8, which can be ordered beginning Dec. 1, with an MSRP of $41,995 including destination and delivery. The 5.4-liter-powered F-150 SVT Raptor starts at $38,995 including destination and delivery.

The 2010 F-150 SVT Raptor was designed as a purpose-built, high-speed off-road truck ready for adventure, and it’s also versatile enough to handle the daily commute. Key enablers to the Raptor’s impressive performance are functional design cues and impressive suspension technology. Internal triple bypass shocks by FOX Racing Shox – the first on a production truck – provide position-sensitive damping and extra suspension travel for extreme off-roading and a smooth ride on the road.

by Jeremy Korzeniewski on Dec 4th 2009 at 3:31PM


2011 Ford F-550 Super Duty Fire Truck -

We're always up for a good cause, and that's exactly what this Ford Super Duty Fire Truck represents. According to Ford, it will make an initial $10,000 contribution to the Los Angeles County Firefighters Widows and Orphans Fund, plus $10 for each person that visits its stand at the LA Auto Show and another $20 for every person that takes a test drive in a new Ford vehicle throughout the duration of the show – up to a maximum of another $6,000 per day.

Naturally, Ford is looking for a little exposure along the way, and we don't really have any problem with that. After all, it's certainly not uncommon to see Super Duty chassis cabs upfitted as fire department vehicles, and that's exactly what Ford has on display right now in LA. Included in the makeover are a 300-gallon water tank, eight-gallon foam cell, two pumps, an electric rewind reel with 150 feet of hose, three-stage winch with 8,000-pound capacity and 100 feet of wire rope.

Naturally, the top-spec 6.7-liter turbocharged diesel Power Stroke V8 engine is present and accounted for, along with a heavy-duty TorqShift six-speed automatic transmission that features available Live Drive Power Take Off (PTO), which allows the truck's engine to power axillary equipment whether the truck is stationary or in motion. See more in the press release after the break .

PRESS RELEASE:

2011 FORD SUPER DUTY FIRE TRUCK AIDS FAMILIES OF FALLEN LOS ANGELES FIREFIGHTERS

2011 F-550 Super Duty

* Ford will donate to the Los Angeles County Firefighters Widows and Orphans Fund for each attendee of the L.A. Auto Show who visits the 2011 Ford F-550 Super Duty chassis cab upfitted as a fire department first-responder truck
* Ford will donate $10,000 to kick off contributions to the fund; auto show visitors can help by visiting and participating in the Ford display (Ford donates $10 per visitor) or by taking a test drive in a Ford vehicle (Ford donates $20 per test drive); up to a maximum of $6,000 per day will be donated by Ford
* This F-550 Super Duty features the all-new Ford-designed, Ford-engineered and Ford-manufactured 6.7-liter Power Stroke® V-8 turbocharged diesel, which delivers significantly improved torque and horsepower along with class-leading fuel economy

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 2, 2009 – For more than 60 years, dependability and reliability have been the hallmark of Ford's F-Series trucks. For those who rely on their trucks 24/7 for emergency rescue work, the new 2011 Ford F-550 Super Duty XLT chassis cab – which can be upfitted as a fire department first-responder vehicle – will be showcased at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

The 2011 F-550 Super Duty is the cornerstone of a program enabling auto show attendees to aid the Los Angeles County Firefighters Widows and Orphans Fund. Ford will donate $10,000 to the fund at the outset, then $10 for those who visit the Ford display and $20 for those who test drive a Ford vehicle at the show to a maximum of $6,000 a day throughout the entire run of the show.

"This is one small way we can give back to the families of these heroes and honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their fellow citizens," said Doug Scott, Truck Group marketing manager.

Two key additions to the redesigned truck – the new 6.7-liter Power Stroke® V-8 turbocharged diesel engine and the new heavy-duty six-speed TorqShift automatic transmission – underscore why more municipalities count on Ford trucks than any other to perform their most demanding and critical jobs. Ford is ranked No. 1 in the Emergency Vehicle Segment based on R.L. Polk & Co. Class 2-7 emergency Vehicle Vocation registrations.

"The Los Angeles County Fire Department is grateful to Ford for remembering the family members of our fallen firefighters," said Fire Chief P. Michael Freeman. "We support their efforts to raise funds for the Los Angeles County Firefighters Memorial Committee."

The all-new 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 turbocharged diesel was designed, engineered and manufactured by Ford and will deliver significantly improved torque and horsepower as well as class-leading fuel economy.

It features a block made of compacted graphite iron, which is stronger than cast iron to withstand the increased firing pressures of the new combustion system. The single turbocharger is engineered to provide the benefits of a small turbocharger (faster response) and a large turbocharger (compressing more air to create more power) in one package. The new engine also can run on biodiesel blends of up to B20.

The increased power is especially important on applications such as fire fighting. The apparatus on the F-550 chassis cab first-responder unit includes:


* 300-gallon water tank
* 8-gallon foam cell
* Two pumps
* Electric rewind hose reel with 150 feet of hose
* Three-stage winch with 8,000-pound capacity
* 100 feet of wire rope

Segment-exclusive Live Drive PTO helps put out the fire while the truck is moving
The all-new heavy-duty TorqShift six-speed automatic transmission offers available Live Drive Power Take Off (PTO) for diesel customers. This application allows the transmission to power auxiliary equipment, and the power is available any time the engine is running – and the truck is moving.

The Live Drive PTO is critical in fire-fighting applications because it allows the truck to spray water onto a brush fire or grass fire, for example, while the truck is stationary or moving. This is the first time Live Drive PTO has been offered in this segment.

The 2011 Super Duty will be built at the Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville, and goes on sale next spring

LOS ANGELES — The 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show was the showplace for a pair of annual awards, and Ford was a major beneficiary, as the 2010 International Car and Truck of the Year winners were announced. The 2010 Ford Taurus and 2010 Volvo XC60 won the International honors. Earlier, the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid was given the Earth, Wind & Power Most Environmentally Progressive award at the show.

The 2010 International Car and Truck of the Year awards were announced for the first time at Los Angeles after 13 years of being revealed in January at the Detroit auto show. The choices were made by a panel of 19 distinguished automotive journalists and editors, including Edmunds.com Editorial Director Kevin Smith. Among the criteria are "personality and passion" and "the emotional connection between car and consumer," according to ICOTY founder Courtney Caldwell.

Inside Line says: L.A. awards season kicks off even before the Academy Awards. — Laura Sky Brown, Correspondent

BY BRENT SNAVELY
FREE PRESS BUSINESS WRITER


The Ford Fiesta subcompact -- a sporty, fuel-efficient car that comes in nine bold colors -- is loaded with technological options and is unlike any car Ford Motor Co. has previously sold in the United States, company executives say.


The 2010 Fiesta will come in colors such as lime squeeze, blue flame and bright magenta. It also will get 40 m.p.g. USA gallon on the highway and 30 m.p.g.US Gallon, in the city -- better than the 2009 versions of the Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit. The car comes with a 1.6-liter, 119-horsepower engine.
"It's not like your average small car," said Jim Farley, Ford's group vice president of global marketing.
Ford declined to say how many Fiestas it hopes to sell annually in North America, but in Europe, the Fiesta has become the second-best selling car behind the Volkswagen Golf. In fact, Ford has sold more than 500,000 Fiestas in Europe and China since the new model went on sale in Europe in October 2008.
By 2012, Ford expects to sell more than 1 million vehicles globally per year off the Fiesta platform.
"The importance of Fiesta for the company cannot be overstated," Farley said.
For that reason, Ford is spending more than $500 million to retool its North American plants so it can bring its European small cars to the United States.
In addition to the Fiesta, Ford also plans to build European versions of the Ford Focus and a minivan called the Grand C-Max here.
The Fiesta represents a seismic shift for Ford. The automaker, best known for its F-Series pickups and SUVs, hasn't sold a subcompact car in the United States since it discontinued the lackluster Aspire in 1997. What's more, Ford hasn't sold a car with the Fiesta name since 1980.
In the past, automakers have struggled to make profits on small cars in North America, but Ford can boost revenue on its small cars by convincing customers to add on expensive options, said Jim Hall, managing director of 2953 Analytics.
Ford said it will offer 15 technologies in the Fiesta that are not typically found in subcompact cars. That includes keyless entry, pushbutton start and its Sync wireless communications and entertainment technology.
"They are assuming they are going to carry a price premium with Fiesta they have been unable to carry in the past" with subcompact cars, Hall said, "and that is very likely true