2011 Ford Mustang - 11,000 Already Ordered

NEW MUSTANG WITH NEW POWERTRAINS IN HIGH DEMAND

2011 Ford Mustang

• Orders for the 2011 Ford Mustang approach 11,000 in first month order banks are open – triple the number of orders that the 2010 Ford Mustang had at the same point in its launch
• 2011 Mustang V-6s are 50 percent of all orders, up 19 percent versus initial orders in 2010
•  First-ever Mustang Club of America (MCA) Special Edition and California Special model demand is triple expectations

 

DEARBORN, Mich., Feb. 25, 2010 – The new 2011 Ford Mustang with all-new powertrains has  three times more orders than the 2010 model in its first month, and half of all nationwide orders are for the car’s class-leading 30 mpg 3.7-liter V-6 engine.

 

“Fuel economy ranks among the top two reasons people choose vehicles,” said Steve Ling, North America Car Marketing manager. “With the 2011 Mustang lineup, we’ve found a way to offer even better fuel efficiency for V-6, GT and even Shelby GT500 performance drivers – while improving performance. And consumers are responding.”

 

Nearly 11,000 Mustangs have been ordered since order banks opened in late January. 

 

Fifty percent of the 2011 Mustang orders are for V-6 models, which feature a new, high-performance, all-aluminum Duratec 3.7-liter dual overhead-cam (DOHC) Twin Independent Variable Cam Timing (Ti-VCT) engine. This new engine delivers 305 horsepower and an expected best-in-class EPA fuel efficiency of 30 mpg on the highway – a 25 percent improvement versus the 2010 model.

 

2011 Mustang V-6 order levels are up 19 percent versus the new 2010 model orders.

 

“The new engine transforms Mustang,” Ling said. “Everything people love about the car lives on, 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 cars in the world.”

 

A first-ever Mustang Club of America (MCA) Special Edition package available on V-6 models generated three times more orders than expected. Plus, “take rates” on the California Special series – which is available on the Mustang GT and harkens back to the original 1968 feature vehicle – are triple the expected rates.  

 

2011 Mustangs also are being equipped with record levels of technology. Navigation is specified on 18 percent of orders. High-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps are on 26 percent of vehicles. Rear-view cameras are on 10 percent – all up from 2010.

 

For the 2011 model, 41 percent of orders are for Mustang GTs. 

 

The Mustang GT’s modern 5.0-liter four-valve, Ti-VCT V-8 engine delivers 412 horsepower and 390 ft.-lb. of torque. At the same time, fuel economy of 25 mpg highway is projected to be better than the previous model and unsurpassed in the segment.

 

Approximately 9 percent of the 2011 Mustang orders are for Shelby GT500 models, which are powered by an all-new aluminum-block 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 engine. This produces 550 horsepower and 510 ft.-lb. of torque, a 10 horsepower increase versus the 2010 model. The engine also is 102 pounds lighter than its predecessor, delivering a better power-to-weight ratio, improved fuel economy, acceleration, handling and steering precision.

 

“Mustang is ready for a new generation of buyers,” Ling said. “With new high-tech and fuel-efficient engines, class-leading connectivity and infotainment options as well as signature style and performance, Mustang is poised to continue its legacy as America’s favorite sports car.”

 

# # #

 

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 198,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com.

 

2011 Ford Super Duty - Imprves Your Productivity

ALL-NEW 2011 FORD SUPER DUTY PRIMED TO MEET COMMERCIAL CUSTOMER NEEDS, IMPROVE PRODUCTIVITY

• The all-new 2011 Ford Super Duty delivers even more productivity for commercial and fleet customers with best-in-class horsepower and torque as well as class-leading fuel economy from both the all-new diesel and gasoline engines along with Super Duty’s best-in-class towing and payload capability
• A full suite of technologies, including Ford Work Solutions™ and SYNC® voice-activated communications, make it easier for fleet owners to manage their vehicles and businesses
• New diesel engine is compatible with biodiesel up to B20 while the new gasoline engine can run on regular-grade gasoline, E85 ethanol or any blend in between, providing a wide array of fueling options for operators of either engine
• All-new 6R140 heavy-duty TorqShift® six-speed transmission manages the improved power and torque with its SelectShift Automatic™ feature and includes upgrades to reduce cost of ownership; available Live Drive PTO (Power Take Off) extends diesel capability

2011 Superduty Pics at our Flickr page

DEARBORN, Mich., Feb. 25, 2010 – When choosing a work truck, commercial and fleet operators demand the best. The all-new 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty delivers, with best-in-class torque and horsepower as well as class-leading fuel economy from both the new 6.7-liter diesel and 6.2-liter gasoline engines that build on the line’s heritage of best-in-class towing and payload.
“Having the most capability means a customer doesn’t have to marginalize any segment while he tries to maintain and build his business,” said Jim Michon, truck fleet marketing manager. “Our customers expect the leadership capability that our trucks deliver and, with the 2011 Super Duty, they’ll also gain a significant improvement in fuel economy. It’s a win-win situation for commercial and fleet owners.”
The next-generation Super Duty builds on its legacy of capability, reliability, durability and dependability.
“Our customers can’t have their truck ‘call in sick,’” Michon said. “The Super Duty truck is their lifeblood. They need it out there every day.”
The 2011 Ford Super Duty line, which includes pickup trucks (F-250 through F-450) and chassis cabs (F-350 through F-550), is well positioned to address the needs of commercial and fleet customers in several ways.
Lowering the cost of ownership
Both the new 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 turbocharged diesel and new 6.2-liter gasoline powertrains will deliver class-leading fuel economy while also maintaining Super Duty’s best-in-class towing and payload. The architecture of both engines has been optimized for efficiency, as has the new TorqShift heavy-duty six-speed transmission.
The transmission’s fluid change interval also has been extended to 150,000 miles, in part due to a dual filter that provides fine filtration and large capacity in a single package. The dual filter also eliminates the need for a spin-on external filter.
The new 6.7-liter diesel’s architecture reduces downtime during service work, which helps get vehicles back on the road faster. During service on the turbocharger, for example, the body/cab does not require removal, reducing labor time. Service time on the EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) cooler and high-pressure fuel pump also is expected to be markedly reduced because of the new layout. The new spin-on oil filter makes that servicing easier as well.
The new Power Stroke, featuring Tow Haul Mode with the integrated engine exhaust brake, helps improve driver confidence with large loads and prolong brake pad life.
Bottom line: Super Duty is the “and solution,” providing both capability and low cost of ownership that customers truly appreciate in a challenging economic environment.
New-to-segment Live Drive PTO (Power Take Off) adds capability
One of the functional improvements with the new transmission is the addition of segment-first Live Drive PTO (Power Take Off) capability. On 2011 Super Duty diesels with the PTO prep option, the PTO output gear is linked through the torque converter to the engine crankshaft. This allows the transmission to power auxiliary equipment such as snowplows, aerial lifts, tow truck lifts, cement mixers or dump trucks. The power is available any time the engine is running.
Pioneered on agricultural applications, the Live Drive feature is particularly useful when mobile PTO function is required during start-stop operations, such as salt spreading, cement pouring or snow plowing. “A fully functional Live Drive mobile PTO will allow Super Duty customers to take full advantage of the equipment on their trucks,” said Al Bruck, powertrain operations manager.
Flexible fueling options
The new diesel engine is compatible with biodiesel up to B20. Likewise, the new 6.2-liter V-8 gasoline FFV-capable engine can run on E85 ethanol.
“For some of our fleet customers, having the option and flexibility of using biofuels is extremely important,” said Todd Kaufman, F-Series chassis cab marketing manager, noting the lower emissions biofuels offer.
Carryover gasoline engine
The proven 6.8-liter V-10 gasoline engine remains in the lineup for F-450 and F-550 chassis cab customers interested in upfitting bodies and boxes to the chassis. The five-speed TorqShift automatic transmission remains as well.
“A lot of F-450 and F-550 commercial customers have built their businesses around our truck with that configuration, so it’s important we retain that,” said Kaufman.
Variety of trim levels
The F-Series Super Duty offers a variety of trim levels – XL, XL Décor, XLT, Lariat and King Ranch® – to suit each customer. Some owner/operators, for example, opt for the King Ranch trim level, which includes Chaparral Leather seats, to help complete their “office.” In each level, customers will find more comfortable seats based off those in the current F-150.
Technology to help your business
Available Ford Work Solutions™ is one of many technologies that can help owners manage their business from the work site. Ford Work Solutions delivers four innovative features:

• An in-dash computer developed with Magneti Marelli and powered by Microsoft Auto that provides full high-speed Internet access via Sprint Mobile Broadband Network and navigation by Garmin. It’s the first broadband-capable in-dash computer in production. This system allows customers to print invoices, check inventories and access documents stored on their home or office computer networks – right on the job site.
• Tool Link™, a Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) asset tracking system developed
  in association with DEWALT, the industry leader in professional power tools, and ThingMagic, the industry expert on embedded RFID technology. This enables customers to maintain a detailed real-time inventory of tools or equipment stored in the pickup box.
• Crew Chief™, a fleet telematics and diagnostics system, which allows fleet owners to efficiently manage their vehicles, quickly dispatch workers to job sites and keep detailed vehicle maintenance records.
• Cable Lock security system, developed in association with Master Lock®, the industry-leading lock manufacturer, discourages theft of expensive tools too large to fit in the cab.

“Ford Work Solutions is a real game-changer,” said Kaufman. “It provides another way for the owner to improve the productivity of his Super Duty ‘tool’ by increasing access and onboard capability. Paperwork – including billing, quotes and work orders – can be accessed, modified and printed right there in the truck. He doesn’t have to wait until he gets back to the office or back home to do it.”
SYNC®, Ford’s industry-first, voice-activated hands-free communications and entertainment system, leverages industry-leading voice-recognition software, integrated GPS technology and a customer’s Bluetooth®-capable mobile phone. SYNC’s new application, Traffic, Directions & Information, provides simple hands-free access to personalized traffic reports, precise turn-by-turn driving directions and up-to-date information including business listings, news, sports and weather.
As with all Ford products, customer feedback was vital in developing the all-new 2011 Super Duty, especially with commercial customers.
“We’ve had our key fleet customers involved every step of the way as we’ve developed the new 2011 Super Duty,” Michon said. “Their valuable input has been reflected in the new truck, from the major features such as B20 capability to more minor, but still important, items such as driver manual lumbar on the vinyl seat. Thanks to the input of our customers, and the strong capability and focus of our engineering, design and manufacturing teams, the new 2011 Super Duty achieves a whole new level of capability.”

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About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 198,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com.

2001 Ford F-150 XLT Supercab

What a great buy! 2001 MODEL YEAR Ford F-150  XLT  8501 North Boardwalk Avenue Kansas City, MO 64154 - (816) 746-7567 VEHICLE IMAGE  VEHICLE INFORMATION Stock #: 03240A VIN #: 1FTRX17W31NB25565 Engine: 8 Cyl. Transmission: 5 Speed Manual Odometer Miles: 79595 Exterior Color: Gold Interior Color: Camel   $8,654.00   STANDARD EQUIPMENT  INSTALLED OPTIONS   AM/FM Stereo Radio   Air Conditioning   Anti-Lock Braking System   Center Arm Rest   Chrome Bumper   Chrome Rims Wheels   Clock   Cloth Upholstery   Compact Disc Player   Compass   Courtesy Lights   Cruise Control   Driver Side Remote Mirror   Front Bucket Seats   Gauge Cluster   Interval Wipers   Keyless Entry   Power Brakes   Power Door Locks   Power Steering   Power Windows   Radial Tires   Reclining Seats   Step Bumper   Tachometer   Tilt Steering Wheel   Tinted Glass   Trip Odometer      FUEL CONSUMPTION   City MPG:   Highway MPG: EPA mileage estimates are for newly manufactured vehicles. Actual mileage may vary with driving habits, road and vehicle conditions and vehicle age. Vehicle Price does not include any state, local, dealer fees or taxes. Any buyer must address errors or omissions before purchase. Dealer and Information Provider disclaim any warranty as to any errors or omissions.

Ford Best in Show - Chicago Auto Show

Consumers pick their favorite vehicles and exhibit at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show

Sunday, February 21, 2010

Consumer voters proclaimed their favorites in five categories in the Chicago Auto Show's fifth annual “Best of Show” balloting.

In voting conducted over the 10-day public run of the nation’s biggest auto show, winners in the contest's five categories were:

•Best All-New Production Vehicle: Ford Focus (29 percent of vote)
•Best Concept Vehicle: Cadillac XTS Platinum (28 percent of vote)
•Best Green Vehicle: Chevrolet Volt (25 percent of vote)
•Best Exhibit: Ford (41 percent of vote)
•“Vehicle I'd most like to have in my driveway:” Ford Shelby GT500

“These are tough competitions that make a win really meaningful for our manufacturers and exhibitors,” said show chairman John Phelan. “In a year when our attendance was about level with 2009, we’re thrilled that everyone worked so hard to bring their best displays, concepts and production vehicles to a public whose optimism is returning.”

Each of the first four winners beat out seven other vehicles. In the fifth category, "Vehicle I'd most like to have in my driveway," voters could choose from any of the nearly 1000 vehicles on the show floor.

According to the results, almost one-third of the voters considered the 2011 Ford Focus the Best All-New Production Vehicle at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show. This is the second year in a row the Blue Oval took the top spot in this category as the Ford Taurus took the honors in 2009.

General Motors also repeated for Best Concept with the Cadillac XTS Platinum taking the honors this year and the Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray winning last year.

Chevrolet’s Volt outpaced the Fisker Karma for the top Green Vehicle at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show. The extended-range electric Volt will go on sale later this year at a price of approximately $40,000.

For the second year in a row, Ford grabbed the honors for Best Exhibit with a commanding 41 percent of the vote. That’s not a shock as Ford had more than a half dozen interactive displays throughout its booth.

In the tightest race of all, the 2010 Ford Shelby GT bested every other vehicle on the show floor to become the showgoers’ pick for “Vehicle I’d most like to have in my driveway.”

For in the Top 10

FORD NAMED ONE OF FAST COMPANY’S TOP 10 “MOST INNOVATIVE COMPANIES” IN MOBILE TECHNOLOGY

The 8-inch touch-screen center stack display is the key interface on MyFord Touch, shown here with audio and entertainment options active.
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• Ford Motor Company shares ranks with Google, Apple, Amazon and HTC on Fast Company magazine’s annual Top 10 list of the “Most Innovative” companies in Mobile technology
• As the only automaker to ever be featured on the Top 10 Mobile list, Ford was recognized for the industry-leading mobile device connectivity technology, SYNC and the new MyFord Touch driver interface
• Ford has been the convergence point for automotive and consumer electronics innovation collaborating with many mobile device manufacturers, software and app developers, and network providers

DEARBORN, Mich. Feb. 18, 2010 – What does Ford Motor Company have in common with Google, Apple, and Amazon? Ford shares a spot with them on Fast Company’s Top 10 list of “Most Innovative” companies in Mobile technology, and becomes the first automaker to ever be recognized in the category.
“This honor represents Ford’s commitment to innovation and development of technology that enhances the driving experience and adds real value to the consumer,” said Mark Fields, Ford president, The Americas. “We’re very proud of this recognition from Fast Company, and it is truly an accomplishment to be named amongst some of the leading technology innovators and mobile application developers.”
Fast Company ranked Ford fifth in the mobile technology category for the introduction and evolution of SYNC, the industry-leading connectivity system co-developed with Microsoft, as well as the recent reveal of MyFord Touch, an innovative user interface that promises to redefine the in-car experience.
“The automaker has taken a great leap forward,” says Fast Company.
Ford developed SYNC in response to the explosive growth potential of the mobile device and embarked on a strategy to build a software-based connectivity platform that could leverage the increasing power of the phone and improving data networks. MyFord Touch expands on the system’s device connectivity features by delivering a graphical, touch, and voice-controlled user interface that maximizes SYNC’s capability and provides an intuitive and safer way for drivers to interact with the car.
“Collaboration and strategic investment in open innovation have been keys to our success,” Fields said. “Our relationship with Microsoft was just the beginning, as we’ve forged strong relationships throughout the mobile industry and look forward to even more.”
In addition to introducing MyFord Touch at the recent 2010 International CES, Ford became the first automaker to announce hands-free command and control of smart phone apps. Pandora, Stitcher, and OpenBeak are the first to implement the SYNC Application Programming Interface (API), enabling drivers to voice control the apps through SYNC’s Bluetooth connection.
More information on SYNC and MyFord Touch can be found here or at www.media.ford.com.

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About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 198,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com.

Deal of the Week - 2002 Ford ZX2

2002 Ford ZX2

WINDOW STICKER
PRINT PAGE
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2002 MODEL YEAR
Ford ZX2
8501 North Boardwalk Avenue Kansas City, MO 64154 - (816) 746-7567
VEHICLE IMAGE
VEHICLE INFORMATION
Stock #:
98162
VIN #:
3FAFP11392R148807
Engine:
4 Cyl.
Transmission:
5 Speed Manual
Odometer Miles:
73543
Exterior Color:
Blue
Interior Color:
Gray

$4,976.00

STANDARD EQUIPMENT
INSTALLED OPTIONS
AM/FM Stereo Radio Air Conditioning Alloy Wheels Carpeting Cassette Player Clock Cloth Upholstery Courtesy Lights Driver Side Remote Mirror Fold Down Rear Seat Front Bucket Seats Gauge Cluster Interval Wipers Power Brakes Power Steering Radial Tires Rear Defroster Rear Spoiler Reclining Seats Tachometer Trip Odometer

FUEL CONSUMPTION
City MPG: Highway MPG: EPA mileage estimates are for newly manufactured vehicles. Actual mileage may vary with driving habits, road and vehicle conditions and vehicle age.
Vehicle Price does not include any state, local, dealer fees or taxes. Any buyer must address errors or omissions before purchase. Dealer and Information Provider disclaim any warranty as to any errors or omissions.

Daytona 500 Pace Car

As Ford reported in January the Pace car on Sunday was the first ford in 40 years to be the pace car.

 

Ford Ready to Set the Pace at the 2010 Daytona 500

January 19, 2010

For the first time in 40 years, a Ford car will be pacing the field for the Daytona 500. Additionally, it’s the first time that a Ford Mustang has ever been the pace car for this race. The 2011 Mustang GT, powered by the all-new 5.0-liter V-8 engine, officially starts the race on February 14, 2010, at Daytona International Speedway.
“Having the opportunity to pace America’s biggest auto race with a Ford icon like the 2011 Mustang GT is truly an honor,” said Jamie Allison, director, Ford North America Motorsports. “And to have the new 5.0-liter engine powering the car will be a great way to demonstrate its power and class-leading fuel economy.”
Fifty special pace car editions of the 2011 Mustang GT will be built and sold to the public. They will be painted Race Red and feature a glass roof and an all-new 5.0-liter V-8 engine. This all-new V8 is capable of producing 412 horsepower, while delivering a class-leading 25 mpg on the highway. The one-of-a-kind model will feature a special Daytona 500 paint scheme, Ford Racing suspension, strut tower brace and mufflers, unique painted wheels, and special interior treatment, including specially branded lit sill plates.
The last time a Ford served as pace car for the Daytona 500 was 1970 when a Ford Torino GT convertible led the field to the green flag.
And while Mustang may be a rookie when it comes to pacing the Daytona 500, its 45-year history is firmly entrenched in racing and winning championships. Mustang captured championships last year in the Grand-Am KONI and SCCA SPEED World Challenge, in addition to leading Robert Hight to his first NHRA Funny Car championship.
Another element that makes this year’s pace car even more unique is that it will be auctioned off for charity before the actual race. Later this week (January 23, 2010), the Mustang GT Daytona 500 Pace Car will be offered at the annual Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Collector Car Auction, which is taking place in Scottsdale, Ariz. Seven-time Daytona 500 champion Richard Petty, the newest member of the Ford Racing family, will be on site to help hand over the car to the winning bidder.
All proceeds over the manufacturer’s suggested retail price from the pace car auction will go to help cure childhood diabetes through a donation to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
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Ford is Growing and Growing

FORD INDIA GEARS UP FOR NEW FIGO DEMAND BY OPENING 28 NEW FACILITIES IN A SINGLE DAY

• The new retail stores bring Ford's dealership total to 164 facilities located in 97 cities across India
• Ford India has more than tripled its dealer sales consultant staff in order to meet demands of increased volume selling
• All the newly-inaugurated showrooms are built according to Ford's global standards and aim to enhance the ownership experience
• Figo’s March introduction is part of ONE Ford global strategy to accelerate pace of bringing more small cars to market

NEW DELHI, India, Feb. 16, 2010 – Ford India, preparing for next month’s launch of the all-new Ford Figo, today opened 28 new authorized Ford dealer facilities in 24 cities, improving market availability and service facilities for its full line of vehicles.
The new retail stores bring Ford’s dealership total to 164 facilities located in 97 cities across India.  In the past two years, the number of cities with a Ford outlet has jumped more than 30 percent.
The introduction of the new Ford Figo marks a significant shift for India’s role in the global ONE Ford strategy that is transforming how Ford brings more small cars to market.  After a $500 million investment that doubled annual production capacity to 200,000 units, the integrated Chennai manufacturing facility is now positioned as a Ford regional center of excellence for small-car engineering and production.
Ford Figo models will be produced at the plant for export to international markets.  The plant is also being groomed to produce diesel and petrol engines for local vehicle production and export within Ford’s Asia Pacific and Africa region.
The Ford Figo is designed and engineered to compete in India’s small car segment, which accounts for more than 70 percent of the new vehicle market.  It leverages Ford’s small-car platform architecture, sharing underlying technology with the Ford Fiesta, already familiar to Indian drivers.
As part of the company's intensified business development efforts supporting the launch of the new Figo, Ford has set out on an aggressive growth strategy, particularly in Tier II and Tier III¹ cities.
“Growing our dealership base, building strong business fundamentals and getting closer to our customers are areas of high priority as we gear up to launch our new Figo and enter this high volume segment in 2010,” said Michael Boneham, president and managing director, Ford India.

“Tier II and III cities are significant for Ford.  We have opened new facilities in 13 Tier III cities today, and more than 40 percent of Ford service outlets are now located in secondary markets,” added Boneham.
Placing dealerships in close proximity to city centers – where they are conveniently located for customers – has been a core focus area for Ford as the company continues to broaden its product portfolio.
“As we expand, we are making sure that our low cost of ownership message is heard by people making buying decisions,” said Boneham.
Both the existing and new Ford dealerships are committed to offering customer-friendly after-sales support and efficient service.  Various packages, including Total Maintenance, Extended Warranty, Roadside Assistance and Scheduled Service Plans are offered by Ford India outlets.
Enhancing the ownership experience is Quick Service, a unique vehicle servicing process that allows routine service to be performed in less than 90 minutes.  Quick Service bays are available in 45 dealerships across India.
All the newly-inaugurated showrooms are Brand@Retail² dealerships built according to Ford’s global standard to improve the ownership experience and ensure a long-term association with the Ford brand.
Customers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the vehicles, receive demonstrations from sales consultants and take test drives of their favorite Ford vehicles, enabling them to make a well-informed purchase decision.
Ford India has been working with its dealer body to ensure facilities meet specific requirements. Dealer staff members are trained according to Ford’s global guidelines to provide higher standards of professional service to customers.  To meet the demands of increased volume selling, Ford India has tripled its dealer sales consultant staff from 480 in 2009 to nearly 1500 this year.
In the past two months, over 1700 dealer personnel from 97 cities have attended in-depth training sessions on Ford Figo.
New facilities have opened in New Delhi, Sangrur, Haldwani and Gwalior in the North; Durgapur, Dhanbad and Guwahati in the East; Hyderabad, Chennai, Warangal, Vellore, Salem, Vijayawada and Malappuram in the South; and Bilaspur and Mehsana in the Western region.
Also as part of the expansion is a new showroom in the East Delhi Metro Rail Station.  This new showroom provides visibility and convenience in a high traffic location and makes it more convenient for customers to shop for Ford vehicles.  This is the first Ford showroom located in a metro rail station in the Asia Pacific region.
New showrooms and workshops also are now located in Jaipur, Thane, Ahmednagar, Pune, Vapi, Ahmedabad and Cochin.

# # #

Editor's Notes:
¹ The Tier system categorizes Indian cities based on size and economic factors.  Tier I is made up of major metro areas and the capitals of affluent states such as New Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Pune and Kolkata.  Tier II comprises less-affluent state capitals and smaller cities with substantial industrial development, such as Guwahati, Coimbatore, Vadodara, Calicut, Bhopal and Kanpur.  Tier III cities are capitals of underdeveloped states and district headquarters that are considered administration hubs, such as Haldwani, Malappuram, Dhanbad, Durgapur and Mehsana.
² Ford’s Brand@Retail program is a transformational and innovative corporate identity program designed to increase customer satisfaction to ensure a superior brand and purchase experience. This program provides consistent representation of the brand's identity and reflects the essence of Ford in the retail environment.

For further details on the facilities inaugurated today, please refer to the appendix below.

3 of the Top 10 Family Cars are Ford's

THREE FORD VEHICLES SELECTED AS 

‘TOP 10 FAMILY CARS FOR 2010’ 

BY KBB.COM

* The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid, 2010 Ford Taurus and 2010 Ford Flex are among the “Top 10 Family Cars for 2010,” according to the editors of Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com
* Vehicles are chosen based on factors such as resale value, fuel efficiency, capability and kid-friendliness
* For more information about the “Top 10 Family Cars for 2010,” please visit www.kbb.com/Top10FamilyCars

DEARBORN, Mich., Feb. 16, 2010 – Three Ford vehicles – the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid, 2010 Ford Taurus and 2010 Ford Flex – are among the “Top 10 Family Cars for 2010,” according to the editors of Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 198,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com.

2011 Ford Focus

2011 Ford Focus 

See the first pictures of the newly redesigned focus. 

This is going to be an exciting change! 

A true World Car!

 

DETROIT, Jan. 11, 2010 – The next-generation Ford Focus makes its worldwide debut providing customers with more affordable technologies and features than ever in this segment, as well as detailed craftsmanship, outstanding fuel economy and a new standard for driving quality.

Sleek, stylish and sporty, both the four-door sedan and five-door hatchback body styles of the next-generation Focus are previewed prior to their production start for Europe and North America late in 2010 and market launch early in 2011. 

The new Focus will be nearly identical in all markets, with 80 percent parts commonality around the world.

 

See More Pictures at our Flickr Page

2011 Ford Transit Connect Electric and Taxi

This week Ford introduced the 

2011 Ford Transit Connect Electric and:

 

The 2011 Ford Transit Taxi

 

These are great adaptations of the Transit and demonstrate the flexibility of this vehicle.  We look forward to all of the different options on the Transit.

2011 Ford Shelby GT500

2011 FORD SHELBY GT500 GOES LIGHTWEIGHT WITH ALUMINUM ENGINE, OFFERS ULTIMATE IN HANDLING

2011 Ford Shelby GT500 Convertible
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• With 550 horsepower and 510 ft.-lb. of torque, Ford’s Special Vehicle Team (SVT) delivers the new Shelby GT500® with a 10 horsepower increase; an all-new 5.4-liter all-aluminum engine is 102 pounds lighter than the previous cast-iron engine and uses Ford-patented plasma-coating technology
• For 2011, Shelby GT500 offers EPA-projected improved fuel economy in city and highway from 2010, eliminating the gas guzzler tax
• The addition of Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS), a new optional SVT Performance Package, enhanced convertible rigidity and a lowered ride height contribute to improved driving dynamics and handling

NEW 2011 SHELBY GT500 MEDIA SITE
DEARBORN, Mich., Feb. 8, 2010 – Ford’s Special Vehicle Team (SVT) engineers are taking high performance to a new level with the 2011 Ford Shelby GT500, resulting in a car that has an all-new aluminum-block engine, even better driving dynamics and handling, improved fuel economy and more horsepower than ever.
“The SVT team continues to push the performance standards of the Shelby to even higher levels and better refinement,” said Jost Capito, director of global performance vehicles and motorsports business development. “All the changes we made reflect a desire for even better handling and outstanding driving dynamics – from weight savings to improved balance.”
Weight savings, new technology headline all-new aluminum engine
The 2011 Shelby GT500 is powered by an all-new aluminum-block 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 engine, which produces 550 horsepower and 510 ft.-lb. of torque, a 10 horsepower increase versus the 2010 model. The engine also is 102 pounds lighter than its predecessor, delivering a better power-to-weight ratio, improved fuel economy, acceleration, handling and steering precision.
“Cutting weight to improve performance is a tradition among hot rodders,” said Carroll Shelby, founder of Shelby American. “It might not be as sexy as adding more horsepower or bigger brakes, but shaving pounds off of a car is the single smartest move you can make.”
The new engine uses state-of-the-art Plasma Transferred Wire Arc (PTWA) liner coating, a process that applies a 150-micron composite coating that contains nanoparticles on the internal surfaces of engine cylinder bores, replacing cast-iron liners typically used in aluminum engine blocks. The Intellectual Property Owners Education Foundation honored the inventors of the Ford-patented PTWA technology with the 2009 National Inventor of the Year Award.
This is the first Ford application of the technology, and it offers improved overall performance and durability, along with functional benefits of reduced friction between piston rings and cylinder bores, improved heat transfer due to increased surface contact area and a weight savings of 8.5 pounds compared to a typical steel-sleeved aluminum block. A mechanical roughening process provides higher material adhesion for the spray coating.
The PTWA process uses air and electricity to create a plasma jet of 35,000 degrees Fahrenheit, which melts a steel wire that is fed into a rotating spray gun. Using atomized air, the melted steel wire is blown into a specially machined surface of the aluminum-block engine cylinder bore. In the process of melting and applying the metal to the surface, the steel wire oxidizes, creating a composite coating consisting of both iron and iron oxide.
“Ford’s Global Research and Advanced Engineering looks to all industries for advanced technologies – and this comes from aerospace. It’s the same technology you would find on aircraft engines,” said Glenn Jorgensen, SVT powertrain team leader. “We’ve invented a coating as a replacement for cast iron that delivers improvements in power and performance and fuel economy.”
The new engine also has its roots in the iconic Ford GT. The new 5.4-liter engine is an evolution of the GT engine, with improved block structure through the use of a unique bulkhead chilled process and six-bolt billet main bearing caps. This new advanced engine will exceed Ford GT performance with its traditional supercharger technology.
“The Ford GT has solidified itself as one of the world’s most coveted supercars. To make improvements to the engine from this supercar and make it available in a Mustang is impressive,” said Kerry Baldori, SVT global performance vehicle chief functional engineer. “The aluminum-block engine is robust and strong enough to produce the performance numbers and durability our customers demand.”
Increased power and increased fuel economy
The 2011 Shelby GT500 combines power and fuel economy into one impressive package. This 2011 Shelby GT500 will be the first modern Shelby without the gas guzzler tax, thanks to the EPA-projected 23 mpg highway and 15 mpg city it will deliver. This is up from 22 mpg highway and 14 mpg city for the 2010 model.
The 5.4-liter V-8 achieves 80 percent of its torque between 1,750 and 6,250 rpm, giving the car a higher level of performance feel. A larger two-row intercooler for the supercharger system has 40 percent more cooling capacity, helping to make power more consistent in higher ambient conditions.
Fuel economy gains come from the new 102-pound-lighter aluminum-block engine, EPAS and detailed aerodynamic changes to the underside of the vehicle.

Car and Driver

Dramatic performance upgrades
New for 2011 is an SVT Performance Package for enthusiasts who want even more performance out of their Shelby GT500 for racetrack-ready driving dynamics. Complete with all-new Goodyear Eagle® F1 SuperCar G: 2 tires that SVT engineers worked directly with Goodyear to develop, the car is ready to race. The tires offer superb dry traction and precise handling, complete with a race-inspired high-performance tread compound.
The optional package also offers unique styling, lighter wheels, a higher rear axle ratio and stiffer springs, and it is available on both the convertible and coupe. Data show the 2011 coupe with the SVT Performance Package is 3.0 seconds faster per lap than the 2010 Shelby GT500 on a 2.3-mile test track.
Carried over from 2010, the 2011 Shelby GT500 features AdvanceTrac®, Ford’s stability control system with several options for performance. Calibration of the system for the 2011 Shelby has been uniquely tailored to each vehicle configuration (base or optional) to optimize the performance.
SVT has worked very hard to make EPAS better than the outgoing hydraulic steering system. The addition of EPAS makes for a dramatic contribution to Shelby GT500 driving dynamics, with improved torque build-up and road feel that delivers quicker and more precise steering, increased effort on the racetrack or winding roads, and reduced effort in low-speed parking maneuvers.
Slotted brake dust shields were added to improve brake cooling and handling, and a new pedal box improves clutch and pedal efforts even more. A lowered ride height of 11 millimeters in front and 8 millimeters at the rear provides a sportier attitude and improved handling.
More engine sound, less road noise
For 2011, Shelby GT500 also benefits from NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) improvements. Overall road noise is reduced by 20 percent versus the 2010 Shelby. Actions undertaken to achieve this improvement include additional sound-deadening material on either side of the instrument panel, additional sound absorption behind interior trim panels, and a rear wheel arch liner to reduce noise on gravel or wet surfaces – all resulting in the driver hearing more exhaust and engine sound and less road and air noise.
The Shelby GT500 convertible model features enhanced structural rigidity, with lateral stiffness improved by 12 percent versus the 2010 model. The V-brace has been stiffened by adding gussets. The secondary crossmember also has been stiffened, while a front Z-brace has been added, connecting primary and secondary crossmembers. A-pillar stiffening foam has been added to increase rigidity.
The structural improvements to the convertible gave SVT the opportunity to be more sport-oriented in the chassis tuning, without trading comfort. Along with the chassis and structural improvements, the 2011 model also will get standard 19-inch aluminum wheels.
“One of the biggest changes for this Shelby is that the convertible acts and feels like a coupe,” said Jamal Hameedi, SVT chief nameplate engineer. “Before, they had a very different character, and the convertible is taking a big step in the sportiness and handling precision area, without degrading the ride.”
GT500 gets a new exhaust for 2011, roaring with an even more aggressive sound than the 2010 model. The 2.75-inch exhaust with all-new tuning helped to deliver the additional 10 horsepower.
Added convenience content
New for 2011 is an optional glass roof, providing customers with a less expensive option than a convertible and without compromising the coupe’s versatility, headroom or climate-controlled environment.
The specially formulated glass also protects interior fabric material from solar radiation deterioration and discoloration by reducing solar light transmittance. To help improve acoustics and interior quietness, the glass features a layer of vinyl that reduces noise, vibration and harshness.
Other new convenience technologies include:

• Standard HID (high-intensity discharge) headlamps
• MyKey™ programmable vehicle key
• Integrated spotter mirror
• Fold-down rear headrests

“Whether you’re looking to take the GT500 out on the streets or have some fun at the track,” Capito says, “this car will satisfy the most discriminating performance driving enthusiasts.”

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