12/25/2009, By Andrew Ganz
Ford says that its first ever North American application of the three blink turn signal technology – where a light tap of the lever in either direction blinks the lights three times before self-canceling for quick lane changes – will debut on its all-new Fiesta in 2010.

Ford is hardly the first automaker to offer the technology; first introduced by the Germans about a decade ago as an autobahn tool, the feature has found its way into most of Europe’s offerings, as well as a good number from Japan and Detroit. Ford is one of the last major automakers to offer the convenience feature.

The automaker says it introduced the system in response to a list of the “Top 10 Driving Pet Peeves” compiled by Hagerty Insurance. The survey nicknamed those who leave their turn signals on for an extended period as “Morse Coders.”

The system will also show up on Ford’s upcoming 2011 Super Duty and we’d expect it to arrive on pretty much every new Ford from here on out.

Ford Taurus earns five-star crash ratings

Posted By Mark Kleis On December 25 @ 4:22 am



Although the all-new Ford Taurus has been on the market since August 2009, the Taurus had not yet received federal crash test ratings – until now. The 2010 Taurus has officially received five-star ratings for driver and passenger in front and side crash tests.


Although the Taurus has just now received official crash test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), it already wore the title of “Top Safety Pick” from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

“The new Taurus is the Ford safety flagship with top safety ratings and advanced crash-protection and crash-avoidance technologies that you may not find in luxury vehicles that cost twice as much,” said Sue Cischke, group vice president for Ford Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering. “A stiffer body structure and new crash-avoidance technologies make the Taurus even safer.”


Although the Taurus is engineered to handle an impact well while keeping its passengers safe, it also features crash-avoidance technologies, such as a segment-first, radar-based forward collision warning system that helps drivers avoid accidents by warning them of impending collisions. The system, enabled by Adaptive Cruise Control, uses a radar sensor to detect moving vehicles ahead and provides a visual “heads-up” warning signal as well as an audible warning when slower-moving traffic is detected ahead.

Ford says that it currently holds more “Top Safety Picks” and five-star crash rated vehicles than any other automaker.

12/25/2009, 12:00 PMBy Mark Elias


The Canadian fall and winter can be brutal when the roads are slick and you’ve got a lot of power to put down to the tarmac – so it’s a good thing Ford equipped the Taurus ess-aych-oh with all-wheel-drive. A brief jaunt into Ontario from Michigan up King’s Highway 402 proved that the SHO is back – just don’t pronounce it phonetically, as lame fanboys are wont to do.

After a few forgettable years with a poseur Taurus (nee Ford Five Hundred), The company brass felt ten years was a long enough wait to revive a legend in the Ford Taurus SHO.

The Taurus SHO was one of the first four-door sports sedans built in America. Starting as a mid-size model in 1989 and continuing until 1999, if started off with a Yamaha-designed, OMC-built V6 with a manual transmission, eventually winding up in 1999 as a V8 with Yamaha heads on a Cosworth block mated to an automatic tranny. After skipping a couple of generations, it re-entered the fray, returning this year as a 2010 full-sized luxury-level sedan.

But by this time, the Taurus SHO has some competition, both foreign and domestic.

As we discussed at the launch of the Taurus SHO about six months ago, rivals include Acura’s TL, Cadillac’s CTS, Chrysler’s 300C and Lexus’ GS350 all the way up to BMW’s turbocharged 535i.

To compete, Ford upped the Taurus Ante. Gone is the rental fleet darling, and in its place is a high-value full-size sedan chock full of amenities.

Playing the part
Looking like a large five-seater family sedan with a positive, or forward lean, the Taurus epitomizes the phrase “sleeper.” So subtle, in fact, the only way you could tell it was the SHO model, is by the two-toned grille, and the SHO badge on the right rear. Otherwise, expect that the spoiler and split-spoke wheels might begin showing up as dealer-installed options on a regular Taurus before long.

The Taurus is a big sedan, but it wears its proportions reasonably well. At its core, it’s a three-box design with some glitz added around to jazz things up around the greenhouse.

Unlike the Fusion, Taurus wears Ford’s new kinetic design language – expect to see more of this in the future.


Inside and out, the Taurus doesn’t scream luxury by any stretch, but the SHO still offers one of the better-designed interiors in a Ford in many years. A personal “pod” built up around the driver keeps all pertinent buttons and switchgear close at hand. When looking at the dashboard overall, with the two “brushed aluminum” eyebrows, one pictures the dashboards found in large Thunderbirds from the mid 1960s. That this retro vibe that carries over to the contemporary confines of this cockpit is a case of looking back to move forward.

We likethe ability to quickly sync a Bluetooth equipped smart phone simply by pushing the setup button and then issuing voice commands, and we appreciate the almost Korean-like level of equipment not typically found in this price range. Heated and cooled front seats, a kicking Sony-branded audio system and more – luxury brands don’t typically include this much spec with this much grunt (more on that in a minute) for another $15,000.

And probably for the first time in any Ford, this Taurus SHO’s optional multi-contoured seats feature… get this: A butt massager. Occupants of the driver’s seat bottom will be delighted, and in some cases thrilled, when they discover their chair has rollers in it to keep the blood flowing in the glutes during long cross country ventures.

Still, this interior isn’t as upscale as the Taurus SHO’s intentions would make it seem. Roomy and comfortable, absolutely. World-beating, probably not.

A seven-letter mantra
Repeat after me: Ecoboost. The twin turbo-equipped V6 has found its way into the Flex and Lincoln’s MKT, but here is where it really shines. Add to that the Haldex all-wheel-drive system from Sweden and you’ll think you are driving a safety-enhanced Volvo. No, not really, but the system adds a fair amount of stability when encountering less than ideal conditions on the tarmac.

As for powerplants, this Ecoboost 3.5 liter direct injection V6 engine is brilliant. Producing 365 horsepower at 5,500 rpm, and 350 lb-ft. of torque, the V6 can propel this 4,400-pound beast at high speed in an amazing manner. That it has 12-pounds of weight for every single horsepower equivalent is nice to note, as well. So good, in fact, we think the idea of an SHO Fusion is one that should be seriously considered. Perhaps it’s time to ready the SVT offices for occupancy again.

Our test Taurus SHO came equipped with the optional SHO Performance Package option box ticked, and as a result scored us with 20-inch P245/45 Y-rated summer performance tires and nickel-aluminum wheels. In addition to beefier brakes, and a sport tuned electronic steering system, the transmission is equipped with a 3.16:1 final drive ratio.

We thought the Ecoboost V6 was torquey the first time around. Today, we still think it’s only rock and roll, but we like it! That and the audio cone under hood that funnels the fun decibels back to the cockpit for soome grat automotive aural excitement. The handling is once again sporting without being racecar harsh, making this a very livable, high performance boulevardier.

The six-speed transmission offered us a chance to exercise our thumbs by way of the paddle “chiclets” on the steering wheel. They work well enough; we just think they should be of the flatter, larger, more controllable paddle-style of shifter.

The ride over the pock-marked highway leading to Canada was smoother than we thought possible considering the conditions of the road. The strut tower brace linking the MacPherson struts get most of the credit here, coupled with the reverse lower control arms. A rear-mounted multi-link suspension handles things out back and maintains the rear tire adhesion with the pavement. Overall, the ride was such that we just wanted to push the SHO harder through the nicely swept turns in lower Ontario than most people would ever be capable of doing in other vehicles.

Leftlane’s bottom line
Better than the sum of all the juicy bits that come as part of the Taurus SHO is the public observations and remarks of everyone from the drive-thru attendant at Tim Horton’s Donuts, to the Immigration Officer at the U.S./Canadian border in Sarnia. The positive reactions were universal.

While the Taurus SHO is a damn good car judged on its own, it walks a fine line between performance and luxury, merely dabbling in both sides. Channel some of the lessons learned in developing the Taurus into a more trim, budget-friendly EcoBoost V6 Fusion SHO - it just rolls off the tongue – and we’ll be first in line with cash in hand.



Words and photos by Mark Elias.

Finally! A great V6 engine for the 2011 Mustang.




-3.7 Liter
-305hp
-30 MPG Hwy
-6 speed auto or manual


This is what the Mustang needed all along.
A great looking car with a decent interior and tons of personality. All at a good price.

A Performance option package will be available as well.
Who needs a V8?


Here is the official word:

" The 2011 Ford Mustang puts 305 high-performance horses in the hands of V-6 coupe buyers with a new all-aluminum dual-overhead cam (DOHC) engine that delivers a projected 30 mpg on the highway with a six-speed automatic transmission and fun for drivers on nearly every road.


For 2011, Mustang's new 3.7-liter Duratec 24-valve V-6 uses advanced engineering to deliver its power and economy: Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) adjusts the valvetrain in microseconds. Aluminum construction means light weight. It's an engine designed to crank out torque down low, rev to 7,000 rpm and deliver the mechanical music sports coupe lovers crave everywhere in between.

"Mustang is completely transformed with this new engine," said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. "Everything people love about the car is still there and now under the hood is a V-6 engine that uses premium technology to deliver the power, the feel, the fuel efficiency, even the sound of the best sports coupes in the world.

Extra horsepower and refined engine operation will be the most noticeable features to new 2011 Mustang 3.7-liter V-6 buyers while projected class-leading fuel economy, also a standard feature, offers an additional bonus. The numbers speak for themselves:
• 19 mpg city/30 highway with six-speed automatic transmission, up from 16 mpg city/ 24 highway on the 2010 model with automatic – a 25 percent improvement over 2010
• 18 mpg city/29 highway with six-speed manual transmission, up from 18 mpg city/26 highway on the 2010 model with manual

To reinforce the sporty nature of the 2011 Mustang, all V-6 models will come standard with new instrument cluster graphics, including a speedometer that reads up to 160 mph and a tachometer that reads to 8,000 rpm, reflecting the free-revving style of the new engine.

Additional lightweight soundproofing measures help filter unpleasant, high-frequency noises while tuned intake and dual exhaust add the sounds Mustang buyers relish.

Occupants also benefit from new door seals and a rear wheel arch liner that reduce road noise for a quieter, more enjoyable drive, all with minimal weight gain compared to the 2010 model."

http://link.brightcove.com/services/pla ... 5029573001

by John Neff on Dec 25th 2009 at 1:30AM


2011 Ford Mustang GT

Thanks to some embargo breaking that's already occurred, we've known for a week that the 2011 Ford Mustang GT would pack a brand new 5.0-liter V8 producing 412 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. We thought those tidbits might hold over the internet 'till the official embargo date lifts early next week, but we were wrong and therefore are still awake at 1:30 AM on Christmas morning writing this post. Thanks to Jalopnik via MustangHeaven via BurlappCars, we have the first images of the 2011 Mustang GT and its new 5.0-liter V8.


You can read more about some of the engine's details that have already leaked here, but let's just take a look see at what we've got. Kudos to Ford for leaving the engine's tippy top unadorned and we also dig those 5.0 badges on the engine and fenders. Nostalgia FTW – OMG! An old fat guy with a sack of stuff just crawled out of my fire place! I think he's a burglar. Gotta go hide the silver, Merry Christmas!

By
Astrid Wagner


COLOGNE, Germany - Ford is celebrating a year of success for its best-selling small car, as John Fleming, Chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe, recently collected the 26th major European honour for the Fiesta in Bucharest – the Romanian Car of the Year award.

Over the past 12 months, the Fiesta has been lauded across the globe, winning over 70 prestigious awards in 16 countries and regions to date – Australia, China, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Greece, Germany, Indonesia, Slovenia, Spain, Russia, Australia, Russia, Scotland, South Africa, the United Kingdom and Catalonia. In China alone, the Ford Fiesta has collected an astonishing 44 accolades so far!


The awards have included national and individual publications' overall Car of the Year awards and best supermini and B-segment honours – all awarded for the Fiesta's all-round qualities. Other awards have been for Fiesta's design or manufacturing excellence, and several for the Fiesta's impressive environmental performance, most notably for the sub 100g/km CO2 Ford Fiesta ECOnetic model.


"We are extremely proud of the latest Fiesta model both in terms of what it has achieved and what it represents," said John Fleming. "The Fiesta is one of the vehicles that is key to how Ford Motor Company is transforming itself globally. We're delighted that so many car buyers have chosen it, and that so many opinion formers have acknowledged its many strengths."


The large number of accolades the car has received highlights how well it has been received by the global media.


More importantly though, is the success new Fiesta has met with from customers, with over 540,000 examples sold since the car was launched just over a year ago. Of those, over 492,000 sales have been in Europe, where Ford Fiesta is the No.2 best-selling car overall, and the No.1 top-seller in its segment year-to-date.


"With the Ford Fiesta continuing its global rollout in North America in early 2010, we hope it is only a matter of time before our best-selling car adds to its impressive collection of accolades," Mr. Fleming added.



Fiesta awards to date in Europe:

Catalan Car of the Year TeleMotor / Radio/Motor Catalonia
Croatian Car of the Year Croatian Car Association Croatia

Best B-Segment Car Auto Motor und Sport Czech Republic

Red Dot Design Award Design Zentrum Nordrhein Westfalen Germany

Auto der Vernunft Guter Rat / Superillu Germany (Fiesta ECOnetic)

Manufacturing Excellence Award Technische Universitat Berlin Germany

Hellenic Car of the Year Autobild, Drive Autocar, Top Gear, Car, Car & Driver and 4 Wheels Greece
2010 Design Award Romanian Car of the Year Romania
Car of the Year Romanian Car of the Year Romania
Small Business Car of the Year Finance newspaper Slovenia
Car of the Year Castilla

La Mancha La Tribuna Spain
Women's Car of the Year Group Spain
Car of the Year The Sun United Kingdom

Car of the Year Auto Express United Kingdom

Car of the Year What Car? United Kingdom

Car of the Year What Diesel? United Kingdom

Car of the Year Fleet World United Kingdom

Green Car of the Year Top Gear United Kingdom

Best Supermini What Car? United Kingdom

Best Supermini Auto Express United Kingdom

Best Supermini What Diesel? United Kingdom

Perfect Car for "Now" What Car? United Kingdom

Best Small Car 2009 Fleet News United Kingdom

Northern Car of the Year Northern Group of Motoring Writers United Kingdom

Scottish Car of the Year Scottish Group of Motoring Writers Scotland, United Kingdom


Fiesta awards in Asia Pacific and Africa:

Best Small Car Under A$20k Year Year Awards Australia

Editor's Choice for the Week Sydney Morning Herald Australia
Most Improved Car Top Gear Indonesia

Lowest Avg. Fuel Consumption 33rd TOTAL Economy Run South Africa

Plus, a total of 44 further accolades in China!

DEARBORN -- The 2010 Ford Flex and the award-winning 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid have been named 2010 All-Stars by AUTOMOBILE Magazine, one of America's leading automotive lifestyle publications.

This year marks the second consecutive win for the Ford Flex. Last year, AUTOMOBILE Magazine described the 2009 model as a "class act among people movers."

"For 2010, Ford has equipped the Flex with its much-anticipated EcoBoost™ engine, thereby addressing the Flex's only weakness – power – and effectively transforming it from a well-rounded family hauler into a large sport wagon," said Jean Jennings, president and editor-in-chief of AUTOMOBILE Magazine. "The Flex is unique in a market brimming with compromised, look-alike utility vehicles and is one of the best-handling full-size crossovers on the market."

Jason Mase, Ford crossover marketing manager, says it is the design and features available with the Ford Flex that make the vehicle stand out.


"We're delighted that AUTOMOBILE Magazine has named Flex an All-Star two years running," he said. "The AUTOMOBILE editors recognize Flex stands apart from the rest of the crossover crowd with unmatched style, tremendous passenger comfort and space, and leading technology features like the available EcoBoost engine, Active Park Assist, Ford SYNC® and a refrigerated second-row console."

Jennings says what makes the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid special is that it doesn't drive like a hybrid.



"Its very ordinariness is what makes the Fusion Hybrid an AUTOMOBILE Magazine All-Star," said Jennings. "The Fusion Hybrid is not a performance machine, but neither does it feel hobbled or inadequate for daily driving. Perhaps the best thing about it is that, apart from the LCD color screens, you might never know you're driving a hybrid."

The recognition from AUTOMOBILE Magazine is the latest in a string of prestigious awards for the Fusion Hybrid.

"Third parties are now endorsing what we have known for quite a while," said Greg Scott, Fusion marketing manager. "The Fusion Hybrid is a great car."

The AUTOMOBILE Magazine All-Stars are chosen by the AUTOMOBILE Magazine staff, its worldwide bureau chiefs and its contributors, following an intensive test drive of the year's most innovative and important new cars. Winners are selected based on design, value and performance, driving enjoyment and the vehicle's ability to redefine an existing category or create a new market segment.

"The level of excellence found during our annual All-Stars competition was at an all-time high and the competition was strong, despite the auto industry coming off its worst year in recent history," said Jennings. "We whittled down a list of 39 finalists to the 10 All-Stars, and the end results produced a list of true standouts."

The 2010 Ford Flex: Turning Heads Today and Tomorrow
In addition to being named one of AUTOMOBILE Magazine's 2010 All-Stars, the 2010 Ford Flex was recently singled out for the 2009 "Collectible Vehicle of the Future" award from the Friends of the National Automotive History Collection (NAHC). Members of the organization, which supports the world-famous automotive collection at the Detroit Public Library, predict Flex will be the vehicle most likely to turn heads at the Woodward Dream Cruise of 2034. Ford's unique crossover has been turning heads since its introduction in 2007.

For 2010, the Flex offers outstanding fuel economy in the full-size crossover segment with 17 mpg city/24 highway and an unsurpassed 20 mpg combined. It also offers a twin-turbocharged, direct-injected 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 engine, an auto-fold 60/40 second-row split bench seat, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel and the Ford-exclusive MyKey™ technology, which allows owners to program a maximum top speed – and radio volume – to encourage safe operation by teen drivers.

Banner Year for 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
2009 has been a banner year for the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid. In addition to being named one of AUTOMOBILE Magazine's 2010 All-Stars, America's most fuel-efficient midsize sedan was honored as one of CAR and DRIVER magazine's "10Best" cars for 2010, and the entire Fusion lineup captured the prestigious MOTOR TREND Car of the Year award. The Fusion Hybrid also is a finalist for North American Car of the Year.

Despite the slump in overall industry sales, Fusion sales are at an all-time high for 2009, with the Fusion Hybrid accounting for almost 20 percent of total Fusion retail sales. And more than 60 percent of Fusion sales have been to customers coming from import brands – mostly Toyota and Honda.

Additional awards and accolades for the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid include:

"Top Safety Pick" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
2009 Ward's Interior of the Year Special Achievement Award for Best Graphic Display for SmartGauge™ with EcoGuide digital instrument cluster
Great Car for the Long-haul Salesman by Kelley Blue Book kbb.com
Named one of America's Top 40 New Cars by MOTOR TREND magazine
Rated the No. 1 Hybrid Family Sedan by CAR and DRIVER in a recent comparison test by the magazine
Named 2009 Editors Choice for Fuel Sipper by CAR and DRIVER
Named Best Hybrid for the Money in the Midsize Car segment by cars.com
Named one of 2009 Top 10 Green Cars by Kelley Blue Book kbb.com
Earned The Detroit News Readers' Choice Award for "Best Value"

Ford wants Transit van to connect beyond small firms
Jamie LaReau
Automotive News -- December 23, 2009 - 12:01 am ET


With small businesses skittish about the economy, Transit Connect sales have been modest. So Ford is looking to sell the cargo van in other market segments, such as to sports enthusiasts.


Bob Wheat sees unusual uses for the Ford Transit Connect small cargo truck. Some people want it for wheelchairs, and sports enthusiasts want to carry their gear, says Wheat, general manager of Village Ford in Dearborn, Mich.

"We sold one to our body shop employee, and he's making a camper out of it," Wheat says.

But the vehicle's core audience -- small-business owners -- are nervous about the economy, and sales of the vehicle have been modest. So the jury's out on whether small, European-style commercial vehicles will catch on with U.S. customers. Ford Motor Co. hopes the vehicle will appeal to a broader audience.

"Confidence among small-business owners is very cautious right now," says Ford sales analyst George Pipas. Businesses "are not in a position to turn over their whole fleet, but they've bought some to see just how they can use them in their business."

A total of more than 600,000 Transit Connects have been sold in seven years in 55 countries. U.S. sales started in July. The vehicle is 181 inches long, 10 inches shorter than the Ford Fusion sedan.

Damoni Hurt, Transit Connect marketing manager, sees potential beyond small-business owners.

"There are untapped markets out there that we're still trying to hone in on, like the sport enthusiast, the aftermarket 'trick my ride' niche," Hurt says. "There is upward growth because we're in a new segment."

Leslie J. Allen
Automotive News -- December 23, 2009 - 12:01 am ET

DETROIT -- The next generation of Ford Motor Co.'s Sync infotainment system will let drivers turn their vehicles into Wi-Fi hot spots.

Occupants can access the Internet by inserting a mobile broadband modem, also known as an air card, into a USB port in the vehicle.

Once connected, they can use their existing service plans -- and their own portable devices, such as laptop computers or smart phones -- to go onto the Internet.

The next-generation Sync is due next year. People who have the current version of Sync won't be able to upgrade to the next generation.

Ford follows General Motors Co., Chrysler Group and Volkswagen AG in providing Wi-Fi services in some of their U.S. vehicles. The other three automakers are using routers supplied by San Francisco's Autonet Mobile. The router sells for about $500, with service plans starting at $29 a month.

Sync is available throughout most of the Ford lineup. It comes standard on Lincolns and on top-of-the-line Ford and Mercury vehicles. Other vehicles offer it as a $395 option. Most services are free.

Ford introduced Sync at the International Consumer Electronics Show in 2007. The technology's basic function is to allow hands-free operation of cell phones and portable music players.

In 2008, the automaker added vehicle-diagnostic reports to the list of Sync services, as well as 911 Assist, which automatically notifies emergency services if a vehicle is involved in a serious crash.

This year, Ford gave Sync users access to real-time traffic, directions and information such as news, sports and weather. As with 911 Assist, the traffic, directions and information service relays information through a mobile phone, which has to be paired with Sync. Traffic, directions and information is free for the first three years of vehicle ownership and costs $60 a year afterward.

The automaker has signaled additional enhancements to the system. On Friday, it said will make programming instructions available to outside developers who want to create voice-controlled, mobile applications to run on the Sync software platform.

It began by allowing six computer-science students at the University of Michigan-Dearborn to create experimental applications. One of the “apps” would allow drivers in Sync-equipped vehicles to follow each other in a convoy by having the lead car relay turn-by-turn instructions to the other vehicles. A second streams audio, such as Internet radio, into the car.




You can reach Leslie J. Allen at lallen@crain.com.

by Frank Filipponio ) on Dec 19th 2009 at 5:21PM



At the LA Auto Show this year, Ford showed off several North American-market Ford Fiestas. The cars themselves received a warm reception, as did the customized versions on hand to show off the possibilities. One Fiesta in particular caught our eye: It was a fairly stock-looking white car with some outrageous black graphics on its flanks. We came to learn that this wasn't just a one-off. It was, in fact, part of a new Ford program to allow buyers to similarly customize any Ford in the vehicle lineup.

The generically-named Ford Custom Graphics are a series of vinyls that can be used to add a little extra something to your blue oval beauty. Ford says the graphics are scratch-resistant and weatherproof, and retain the car's 3 year, 36,000 mile warranty. They will be sold exclusively through Ford dealers. Although the Fiesta designs are the only pages open right now, there are previews of other planned graphics on the FordCustomGraphics.com website. We've assembled some of them here for you in the gallery below. The lower camo on the F-150 is particularly eye-catching, but there are similar treatments for every single vehicle in the Ford family brochure. Check 'em out.

Last Updated: December 16. 2009 8:57PM .Bryce G. Hoffman / The Detroit News



It could be the automobile industry's killer app.

In January, Ford Motor Co. will unveil the latest version of Sync at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, including a new feature that will allow the system to work with virtually any application on a motorist's cell phone or music player, according to sources familiar with the company's plans.

That means drivers will be able to stream music from Internet radio service Pandora through their car's stereo or have Sync read incoming messages from their friends on Twitter. They will be able to control these applications using Sync's voice controls or listen to information from them using its text-to-speech system. And they will be able to use the many location-specific applications that provide information about nearby businesses and attractions.



"Ford is once again the first to create a new technology," said analyst Mark Boyadjis of iSuppli Corp. "They are the first ones to integrate social media into the automobile."

Sync is the in-car communications and entertainment system that Ford developed with software giant Microsoft Corp. It was introduced in 2007, and Ford promised to add new features on a regular basis.

The Dearborn automaker would not discuss the latest upgrade, but is expected to provide details to journalists later Thursday.

The new feature, known internally as "mobile apps," will be included in vehicles next year, but existing Sync customers will be able to download the upgrade and install it in their vehicle. But unlike the last upgrade that Ford released a year ago, this one likely will come with a price tag attached.

At its heart is a new application programming interface, or API, that Ford will make available to developers, allowing them to easily upgrade their programs to work with Sync.

Ford began offering Sync as an option in 2007, and the system has since proven a game-changer for the company. It already has sold well over a million units, and 70 percent of customers who purchase a Ford, Lincoln or Mercury product elect to purchase it. That has helped Ford increase the price it gets for its cars and trucks.

It also is attracting new customers to the Ford brand. According to the automaker, 32 percent of customers now say Sync was a key reason why they bought a Ford product.

"Fords used to be a pretty basic, plain-Jane car. Even the Lincolns were little more than leather and some sound-deadening," Boyadjis said. "Now, their cars are literally at the top of the space when it comes to technology. It has helped Ford gain market share from General Motors and Chrysler."

This year has seen major changes at Redmond, Wash.-based Microsoft. After a decade as a separate business unit, its automotive division was folded into its embedded computing division -- a move some observers saw as a sign that the software giant was focusing its resources elsewhere.

Not so, says Greg Baribault, director of product planning and marketing for Microsoft's automotive group.

"We were replicating a lot of work that the general embedded computing team was doing," he said, adding that Microsoft often creates stand-alone business units to explore new opportunities and combines them with core parts of its organization once they are proven to be viable. "As the two grew, it became more and more confusing for customers. It just didn't make sense to keep these things running independently any more."

Baribault said the automotive business remains important to Microsoft, and said the company continues to invest in it, as well as its core home and office businesses.

"The car is a connection point between these two places, and it has really been an island without connectivity," he said. "For Microsoft, the car is a very strategic investment."

Boyadjis said Microsoft is putting a positive spin on its reorganization.

"I think most people took that as a sign of divestiture rather than investiture," he said. "But I don't think it really limited their ability to service the automotive market. I've seen continual advancement from them."

Ford was not the first automaker to use the Microsoft system. Italy's Fiat SpA introduced a system with the same basic features in Europe in 2006. Now that Fiat controls Chrysler Group LLC, it is working with Microsoft to bring its version to the United States, Baribault said.

It will likely debut on the Fiat 500, which is due to arrive in this country at the end of next year. Existing Chrysler models would not be able to incorporate the system until they are refreshed.

Microsoft also inked a deal with South Korea's Hyundai Kia Automotive Group after its exclusivity agreement with Ford expired at the beginning of 2008, though it has yet to bring a system to market.

"I can't give you a date, but we'll see something from Kia soon," Baribault said, adding that his company also is working to provide similar technology to suppliers. It also is talking with other automakers.

"The recession put a lot of these things on hold," Boyadjis said, though he expects to see other automakers introduce their own systems next year. However, he doubts any of them will pose a serious threat to Ford.

"Ford has taken over a lot of this and created its own ecosystem. It will be more competitive, but I don't think it will overshadow the success that Sync has had," he said. "Every year, they're announcing features that are not only groundbreaking, but easily upgradeable."

Baribault said many of Sync's hottest features, like mobile apps, are proprietary additions developed by the automaker.

"They're doing a lot of this without our direct engineering involvement," he said. "We're enabling them to create their own unique applications and provide them to their customers."

bhoffman@detnews.com (313) 222-2443

By ROGER HART

A picture of Ford Mustang

The 2011 Ford Mustang will get a new 5.0-liter V8 making 412 hp. Shown is the 2010 model.
FordTo Ford Mustang fans, 5.0 means a lot, and the new 2011 5.0-liter V8 Mustang will deliver 412 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque, company officials said on Thursday. The information was supposed to be embargoed until Dec. 28, but news leaked out shortly after the announcement in Dearborn, Mich.

The new 5.0-liter Mustang produces 83 hp per liter yet will return 25 mpg, according to Ford marketing boss Jim Farley. The 5.0-liter Mustang’s main competitors are the Chevrolet Camaro SS, rated at 426 hp, and the Dodge Challenger SRT8, which makes 425 hp. Of course, the top-of-the-line Shelby GT500 and its supercharged V8 is rated at 540 hp.



What makes the brand-new V8 engine powering the ’Stang so potent is how engineers were able to allow the engine to breathe. All-new heads sit atop an all-new aluminum block with cast-iron cylinder sleeves. The wide distance between the heads allows for the intake ports to sit vertically on top of the engine. The engine features four valves per cylinder and twin independent variable valve timing. Tuned exhaust headers eliminate the need for aftermarket headers to let the engine breath better. Inside the engine are a forged-steel full counterweight crankshaft and four-bolt main bearings and high-performance pistons and connecting rods. Peak horsepower is reached at 6,500 rpm.

The new 5.0-liter Mustangs can be fitted with either the 6R80 automatic transmission or the MT82 six-speed manual.

The pony car will make its official debut at the Detroit auto show in January.



Read more: http://www.autoweek.com/article/2009121 ... z0a4A6f548

Ford claims biggest five-year fuel economy improvement among major automakers
by Sam Abuelsamid on Dec 18th 2009 at 9:25AM


Ford 1.6-liter EcoBoost

According to the latest report from the Environmental Protection Agency, Ford has scored the biggest improvement in combined fuel economy of any major carmaker over the last five years. Between 2005 and 2009, Ford improved its fleet average by nearly 20 percent – almost twice as much as any other company. While Ford certainly made a lot of incremental improvements in the efficiency of its vehicles over that period, that wasn't the only factor.

That same time period saw a huge shift in the model mix at Ford. Sales of SUVs like the Explorer and Expedition collapsed as consumers moved to crossovers like the Edge and Flex (oh, and we suppose a car or two). The Explorer has gone from more than 400,000 annual sales earlier this decade to just over 68,000 last year.

Ford has made actual improvements, as well, however, including the introduction of the Escape Hybrid and the roll out of six-speed transmissions. The next five years should see even bigger gains as Ford deploys millions of EcoBoost engines, battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids. Ford's official press release is after the jump.





[Source: Ford]


PRESS RELEASE:

FORD LEADS THE INDUSTRY ON FUEL ECONOMY IMPROVEMENT, DRIVEN BY POWERTRAIN ADVANCEMENTS

* Ford Motor Company records the largest increase in fuel economy gains and CO2 emission reductions over the past five years, according to Environmental Protection Agency
* Incremental engineering solutions – ranging from aerodynamic enhancements and weight reduction to energy management and mechanical improvements – have significantly contributed to Ford's fuel economy gains
* EcoBoost, the cornerstone of Ford's sustainability strategy, debuted in 2009 with a strong take rate; 2010 marks introduction of four-cylinder EcoBoost
* Ford to deliver 30 new powertrains over next two years to increase fuel efficiency
* Ford brings battery system design and development in house as part of core competency to meet aggressive electrification strategy; on target to deliver new electrified products to market

DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 17, 2009 – The Blue Oval is on a 'green' streak.

Ford Motor Company has improved in fuel economy more than any other major automaker since 2004, according to a recent report by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The EPA rated Ford's combined car and truck fuel economy improvement at nearly 20 percent, almost double the next closest competitor.

Ford credits its recent gains in fuel economy in part to its introduction of the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner hybrids and numerous incremental aerodynamic, mechanical, energy management and weight-saving improvements across its vehicle lineup. Going forward, it expects the 2009 introduction of the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan hybrids and its fuel-efficient EcoBoost engines to further improve its fleet-wide fuel economy.

Dramatic fuel efficiency improvement is evident throughout Ford's vehicle lineup – from cars and crossovers to sport utilities and trucks. Depending on powertrain specifications, the 2010 Fusion, Fusion Hybrid, Escape Hybrid, Taurus SHO, Flex, F-Series and Transit Connect offer best-in-class or unsurpassed fuel economy. The same can be said of the 2010 Lincoln MKS and MKT and Navigator, Mercury Milan Hybrid and Mariner Hybrid.

Ford expects to see its overall fuel economy continue to rise in 2010 with the introduction of the 2011 Ford Fiesta and redesigned 2011 Ford Focus – both high-mileage small cars.

"2009 has been a breakthrough year for Ford, leading with the launch of EcoBoost and the introduction of new products that will result in further improvement in 2010," said Sue Cischke, group vice president, Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering. "Our commitment to delivering affordable, fuel-efficient vehicles for millions has never been stronger or better demonstrated."

Not only is the improved fuel efficiency good for customers' wallets, it benefits the environment as well. As a result of the boost, Ford lowered its tailpipe CO2 emissions more than any other automaker with a fleet-wide average of 434 grams per mile – 37 grams lower than its 2007 total and 25 grams lower than 2008.

A powerful difference maker
The fuel efficiency of the 2010 Ford Fusion improved 21 percent over the 2009 model, jumping from 28 mpg to 34 mpg in highway driving, and leap-frogging the competition. Powertrain improvements were a big difference maker. Fusion and other new models benefit from the introduction of Ford's new six-speed transmission, which offers a wider gear span than four-speed transmissions.

The six-speed allowed Ford's engineers the flexibility to tune the powertrain for greater responsiveness in low gears and better fuel economy in the taller gears. The new double-overdrive gearbox is designed to contribute up to 4 percent fuel economy improvement. Ford has committed that almost 100 percent of its transmissions will be advanced six-speed gearboxes by 2013.

Ford's EcoBoost breakthrough
This year, Ford introduced its new line of powerful, fuel-efficient EcoBoost engines, available in the Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, Lincoln MKS and Lincoln MKT. Recently honored with a Popular Mechanics' Breakthrough Award, EcoBoost uses gasoline turbocharged direct-injection technology for up to 20 percent better fuel economy, 15 percent fewer CO2 emissions and superior driving performance versus larger-displacement engines.

On average, nearly one in five buyers of the Taurus, Flex, Lincoln MKS and MKT have opted for EcoBoost since the engine lineup's introduction in August. By 2013, Ford will offer EcoBoost engines in 90 percent of its product lineup with annual volume of vehicles with EcoBoost at 1.3 million globally.

"We are committed to delivering new products with the best fuel economy in every segment in which we compete – driven in large part by substantial advancements in powertrain technology," said Barb Samardzich, vice president, Ford Global Powertrain Engineering. "We are focusing on sustainable technology solutions that can be used not for hundreds or thousands of cars, but for millions of cars, because that is how Ford truly will make a difference."

It's all about incremental improvements
The fact that the 2010 Ford Taurus and 2009 Ford F-150 are up to 12 and 17 percent respectively better on fuel economy than their 2004 predecessors isn't due to one "silver bullet" solution but a host of vehicle enhancements, including aerodynamic refinements, weight efficiency and mechanical improvements.

The progress made by Ford during the past few years reflects an engineering philosophy that every joule of energy gained through incremental improvement is precious. Ford engineers work tirelessly using a systems approach to manage vehicle energy and implement a variety of design and engineering solutions that can each improve fuel economy by 1 percent or more. Taken together, the improvements help deliver significant savings for consumers at the pump.

Aerodynamics
The ease with which a vehicle moves through air greatly influences its fuel efficiency. Ford engineers use sophisticated computer modeling and wind tunnel testing to painstakingly tweak vehicle designs millimeter by millimeter to get the best possible aerodynamics without losing sight of the designers' original vision. The energy saving can be significant. A 10 percent reduction in aerodynamic drag increases fuel economy by approximately 1 percent for cars and approximately 2 percent for trucks with conventional internal combustion engines.

The 2010 Fusion, Mercury Milan and Lincoln MKZ are 5 percent more efficient than outgoing models in terms of drag coefficient, which measures the force that pulls a vehicle back when it is moving. The Fusion S leads the group with a segment-topping 34 mpg highway rating, in part because it is 8 percent more aerodynamically efficient than the outgoing model.

Weight reduction
Reducing vehicle weight also is a critical part of fuel economy improvement. For every 10 percent reduction in weight, fuel consumption is estimated to improve by 3 percent. According to a recent study, replacing heavier materials with lightweight materials is nearly as important as hybrid technology for automakers to meet the expected increase in the One National Program regulations by 2016.

Ford increasingly uses light-gauge, high-strength steel and lightweight materials such as aluminum and magnesium to meet weight reduction goals ranging from 250 to as much as 750 pounds. In turn, weight savings in body and structural materials allow for the use of smaller-displacement engines and lighter-weight suspensions and chassis components.

The Fusion team eliminated 125 pounds for the S-Series fuel economy leader. The size of the radiator, for example, has been reduced in size by one-third with no degradation in performance. Also, 16-inch aluminum wheels and low-rolling resistance tires help aid aerodynamics while still delivering top performance.

Energy management
Ford is eliminating energy waste in every vehicle system, including power steering. Ford's new Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) can improve fuel economy up to 3 percent, while reducing CO2 emissions and enhancing steering performance. EPAS saves fuel primarily because the steering system is powered by an electric motor connected to the vehicle's battery, as opposed to engine-mounted hydraulic pump steering systems. By 2012 Ford plans to fit nearly 90 percent of the Ford, Lincoln and Mercury lineup with EPAS.

"While we are implementing our near-, mid- and long-term plans, we are continuing to achieve efficiencies throughout the vehicle in areas that can quickly lead to fuel economy improvement today," said Derrick Kuzak, Ford's group vice president of Global Product Development. "Whether we're reducing wind drag, eliminating engine-driven power steering pumps or switching to low-friction engine oil, this attention to every detail and these small improvements collectively deliver significant fuel economy gains for our customers."

A new frontier of electric vehicles
In 2009, Ford launched an aggressive plan to bring pure battery-electric vehicles, next-generation lithium-ion battery powered hybrids and a plug-in hybrid to market quickly and more affordably during the next four years. The vehicles include:

Transit Connect battery-electric commercial van in 2010
Focus Electric passenger car in 2011
Next-generation hybrid vehicle in 2012
Plug-in hybrid in 2012
These new vehicles pave the way for additional applications in the future, using Ford's high-volume global small car and midsize car platforms. The use of global platforms showcases Ford's ability to develop products with worldwide market opportunities in mind. Powering the company's electrification drive is its ONE Ford global product vision.

As part of Ford's electrification plan, it will bring battery system design, development and manufacturing in house as a core competency in support of the development of its next-generation hybrid vehicle in 2012. This underscores Ford's commitment and belief in the growth potential for electrified transportation. Ford will continue to work with supplier Johnson Controls-Saft on the design and development of battery cells and packs for Ford's PHEV that also launches in 2012.

"Next-generation hybrids, plug-in hybrids and pure battery-powered vehicles are the logical next steps in our pursuit of greater fuel economy and sustainability," said Nancy Gioia, Ford director of Global Electrification. "A growing number of consumers want that kind of choice, and we want to be in a position to deliver it to them across multiple vehicle categories."

by Jonathon Ramsey on Dec 16th 2009 at 11:28AM


Steve Wyrick's Mustang Unleashed stunt


http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/last ... #continued
-- Click above to watch video

There have been rallies and skateboards and drag races and tattoos, among other things. Now, the tenth and final film of the 2010 pony car festival that is Mustang Unleashed has gone out in smoky style, with a big Las Vegas number filmed on the strip. This time Vaughn Gittin, Jr. plays a support role to Hard Rock's illusionist Steve Wyrick, who pulls off a little sleight-of-car-and-body that channels Houdini and almost any Nicholas Cage stunt scene that has a car in it.

Like the best tricks, it isn't long but will have you wondering how it was done. If you get any ideas, the video warns you not to try this at home – not even driving – without the use of magic. Follow the jump to see it for yourself.

by Jonathon Ramsey on Dec 16th 2009 at 1:01PM


2010 Ford Galaxy
The next generation models of Ford of Europe's popular Galaxy and S-Max people movers are about to make their introductions at the Brussels Motor Show. Both have been given modest exterior revamps, new technologies like Ford's Blind Spot Information System and so on. Most importantly, though, these are the first Fords to receive EcoBoost four-cylinder engines.

The S-Max wears a redesigned hood and front fascia with LED running lights, while its rear end gets a new tailgate and LED taillights. The Galaxy is likewise fitted with the new family look, with a bolder lower, new fog lights, and LEDs in the rear.


@010 Ford S Max

Both cars have updated interiors and new materials. Under their hoods, the 2.0-liter EcoBoost SCTi tops out at 200 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque (the latter of which is available from just 1,750 rpm). For all the info on two more of Ford's Please-Come-to-America-Offerings, have a look at the press release after the jump .
PRESS RELEASE:

2010 BRUSSELS MOTOR SHOW DEBUT FOR NEW FORD S-MAX AND NEW FORD GALAXY

* Ford S-MAX and Galaxy models get a fresh new look for 2010
* New models to debut at 2010 Brussels Motor Show
* S-MAX and Galaxy debut Ford's new high-efficiency EcoBoost 4-cylinder advanced turbocharged petrol direct injection engines
* 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine with Stage V emission rating and additional new 163PS version
* Ford PowerShift transmission enters range: standard with 2.0-litre EcoBoost, optional with 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi
* Improved craftsmanship and enhanced technologies
* New Galaxy and S-MAX will be built alongside Mondeo at Ford's Genk plant in Belgium

COLOGNE, December 15, 2009 – Ford of Europe will unveil new versions of its top-selling S-MAX and Galaxy at the 2010 Brussels Show on January 13. With fresh designs, they feature new interior materials and features, a range of more efficient powertrains and a host of driver focused technologies aimed at improving safety and comfort.

The 2010 S-MAX and Galaxy models kick off an exciting year for new product introductions from Ford of Europe.

"We've given both models a fresh new look and more premium appeal, but it is beneath the skin that the major changes have been made," said John Fleming, Executive Vice President and Chairman & CEO, Ford of Europe. "S-MAX and Galaxy are the first European Ford models to benefit from our global EcoBoost family of direct-injection, turbocharged, petrol engines delivering more power and performance from a lower displacement powerplant, yet with impressive fuel economy and low CO2 emissions. And that is just the start of the 2010 S-MAX and Galaxy story."

These are the first cars to be available with Ford's all-new, high efficiency, 2.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine. Producing 203PS it joins a significantly improved 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel, with 140PS, plus a new 163PS variant. Additionally, the Ford PowerShift double wet-clutch transmission system is available for the first time on Ford's large car range; it will be standard equipment with the EcoBoost petrol engine and optional with both Duratorq diesels.

A range of innovative new safety and convenience features debut on versions of the new S-MAX and Galaxy, including a Blind Spot Information System.

More Distinctive Outside
From launch in 2006 the S-MAX quickly established itself as a car without peers – a sporty, high quality and well-equipped crossover that provides the benefits of a people mover, but without sacrificing style or driving enjoyment.

The new model maintains this tradition and has been thoughtfully updated with significant detail changes to the exterior including a strongly sculptured bonnet and all-new front fascia, emphasised by a gloss black lower front trapezoidal grille. This gives S-MAX a distinctive presence on the road, and a new lower front bumper comes with distinctive LED daytime running lights on high series (Titanium and Titanium X Sport) models.

The rear of new S-MAX has been re-designed with a more dynamically profiled tailgate and new LED tail lights that extend deep into the rear side flanks. Boosting its premium appeal is a horizontal satin chrome bar which runs between the LED tail lights and is embossed with the S-MAX logo.

The new Galaxy also features a re-designed frontal section. A new, more sculptured, bonnet combines with new front fascia design – incorporating a bolder lower trapezoidal grille with inserts featuring subtle chrome bars – and new-look fog lights. Titanium and Titanium X models are differentiated further with chrome bars in the upper grille as well.

The roof incorporates new bolder integrated silver rails, while at the rear, distinctive new LED lights and a body-coloured lower fascia are standard equipment.

More Luxurious Inside
Carefully balanced new colour and material choices deliver a luxurious and dynamic feel. For both vehicles, the Ford FoldFlatSystem comes as standard for the second and third row of seats.

S-MAX high series models get a new multifunctional overhead console with generous stowage, sunglasses holder and child-watch mirror, and a new one-piece panorama roof equipped with power sun blinds. For the first time high series S-MAX models, and all models fitted with the panorama roof, get a new LED interior lighting system.

Loading through the rear tailgate is also made easier thanks to a new courtesy light, fitted into the inside panel on the liftgate, that illuminates when opened.

Power and Economy: EcoBoost SCTi, Duratorq TDCi and PowerShift
Ford's new S-MAX and Galaxy are the first vehicles to offer an all-new 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost SCTi engine, which heralds a new era in Ford's petrol engine development. Featuring lightweight all-aluminium construction, the latest-generation high-pressure direct injection system, low-inertia turbocharging and twin independent variable cam timing, the 2.0-litre EcoBoost SCTi has an advanced combustion system which brings new levels of performance and fuel efficiency to petrol engines in this power range.

The 2.0-litre EcoBoost SCTi engine has a maximum output of 203PS at 5,500 rpm, combined with maximum torque of 300Nm, which is delivered across a broad 1,750-4,500 rpm range. With this new powertrain, the S-MAX achieves 0-62mph in 8.5 seconds (8.8 seconds for the Galaxy) and a top speed of 137mph (135mph for the Galaxy.)

Yet even with this responsive performance, fuel economy and CO2 emissions are significantly improved. Compared with the previous 161PS 2.3-litre automatic powertrain, CO2 is reduced by 19 per cent to 189g/km, even though the new 2.0-litre SCTi engine has over 25 per cent more power. This translates into a combined fuel economy of just 34.8mpg* and an extra urban figure of 44.1 mpg*.

At the same time, Ford's diesel offering for the new S-MAX and Galaxy has been significantly improved. The upgraded 2.0-litre Ford Duratorq TDCi engine family complies with Stage V emission regulations and is also available in three power levels – 115, 140 and 163PS – for the first time.

Engineered to deliver refined performance and low cost of ownership, these new Duratorq TDCi engines also deliver impressive combined fuel economy and CO2 performance. With a consumption of 49.5mpg* and an average CO2 emission of 152g/km, the new S-MAX and Galaxy, with six-speed manual transmission, prove that it is possible to combine driving fun and compelling performance with high efficiency.

The efficient and smooth-changing Ford PowerShift double wet-clutch transmission is a perfect match for both the new petrol direct injection and common rail diesel engines. It is standard with the new EcoBoost SCTi and available as an option with the 140 and 163PS versions of the 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi.

New Features Further Enhance Safety and Comfort
From the outset the new S-MAX and Galaxy were designed and developed to offer customers a premium travelling experience and, to achieve this, an already compelling range of features in the previous models was updated and broadened for even greater safety and comfort.

Jörg Beyer, Ford of Europe's Vehicle Line Director for Large and Luxury Vehicles said: "The sheer number of Ford milestones we have delivered with the new S-MAX and Galaxy, in terms of vehicle design, powertrain technology and features, is big enough to make you think they are all-new vehicles. Our European Ford flagships deserve this treatment – and we are convinced that our customers will appreciate it."

The new S-MAX and Galaxy are Ford of Europe's first vehicles to feature the new Blind Spot Information System. This radar-based technology warns drivers of vehicles in their blind spot area. Also, the new Adjustable Speed Limiter Device (ASLD) is designed to help drivers set, and then not exceed, specific speed limits unintentionally – another first for Ford of Europe.

High series versions of the new S-MAX feature extensive applications of Light Emitting Diode technology, with LED daytime running lights as standard and LED illumination inside. All versions fitted with the panorama roof also benefit.

High series versions of both the S-MAX and Galaxy are also equipped with powerful courtesy lights located on the lower inside corners of the tailgate to illuminate the load area and all versions of both S-MAX and Galaxy come with LED tail lights as standard.

The comfort of passengers in both vehicles also motivated further refinements to the climate control system, which now features a new ventilated temperature and humidity sensor mounted in the steering column shroud for more sensitive control of the cabin air.

Additional trademark technologies already available on other Ford models are now being made available on S-MAX and Galaxy for the first time. These include the Ford Keyless System and the award-winning Ford EasyFuel capless refuelling system.

Sophisticated, Flexible Manufacturing
As with previous models, the new S-MAX and Galaxy share the same assembly line with the Mondeo at Ford of Europe's Genk manufacturing facility in Belgium.

A highly sophisticated, flexible and lean manufacturing process allows Ford to adjust the sequence and production quantity of different vehicles within its large and luxury car range, ensuring that it can respond very quickly to changes in customer demand.

Pioneering New Technology
"S-MAX and Galaxy were the first Ford vehicles to include elements of our 'kinetic design' styling theme," added John Fleming, "More importantly, they began to change the way that many people thought about the Ford brand.

"As they sit alongside Mondeo at the top of the Ford range in Europe, it is essential that we use these models again as pioneers for the introduction of new and innovative technologies that will characterise Ford's ambitious product launch calendar for 2010," said Mr Fleming.

Further details of the new Ford S-MAX and Galaxy models will be released closer to launch in early 2010.

*Note: Fuel economy figures quoted are based on the European Fuel Economy Directive EU 80/1268/EEC and will differ from fuel economy drive cycle results in other regions of the world