2011 FORD EXPLORER MORE ADAPTABLE THAN EVER FOR DRIVERS AND ROADS

Innovative technology creates new 2011 Explorer that adapts to drivers and roads to deliver new levels of comfort and safety
The new Explorer will be one of Ford’s first vehicles with four-way head restraints designed to provide occupant protection and more adjustable comfort for passengers of different heights, while encouraging proper use of restraints
The new Explorer also features new technologies to help the vehicle adapt to driving conditions, including a terrain management system, Curve Control and radar-based systems such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning with Brake Support
Customers can personalize Explorer even more with custom graphics and seven accent lighting choices for footwells, cupholders and other areas
Fact Sheet: 2011 Ford Explorer: More Adaptable Than Ever (PDF)

DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 12, 2010 – Whether hauling mountain bikes through mud ruts or groceries and kids through rush hour traffic, the new 2011 Ford Explorer will adapt to peoples’ lives more than ever – building on the capability, flexibility and utility that made it America’s favorite SUV for two decades.

The redesigned Explorer, which arrives later this year, will deliver more adaptability than ever before – from adjustable creature comforts like a four-way head restraint to responsive driver-assist and safety technologies such as terrain management system and Curve Control.

“The Explorer has always been about maximum adaptability, but it’s not just about off-road capability, flexible cargo space and seating configurations anymore,” said Amy Marentic, group marketing manager, Ford cars and CUVs. “With the new Explorer, we’ve redefined what adaptability means by expanding the user’s ability to adjust vehicle features and functions. At the same time we are offering innovative technologies that can allow the Explorer to automatically adjust to driving conditions if needed”

Making easy adjustments for comfort and whiplash protection
One of the new Explorer’s flexible features is a new four-way head restraint designed to provide protection for occupants with more adjustable comfort than industry standard two-way restraints.

The four-way head restraint offers increased flexibility over the two-way head restraints that proliferate in the industry. The four-way system moves up and down, as well as forward and backward using a manually operated ratcheting system that allows 12 positions to increase occupant comfort while helping to provide occupant injury protection in rear impacts.

“A well-positioned head restraint is important because it helps keep the occupant’s head and neck aligned with their torso and may reduce the risk of whiplash injury,” said Agnes Kim, Ford senior technical specialist. “Our four-way system is designed to provide protection while offering more flexibility so drivers can find more comfortable driving positions.”

Ford recommends properly adjusting the head restraint so that the top of the head restraint is even with the top of one’s head and positioned as close as possible to the back of one’s head. For occupants of extremely tall stature, the head restraint should be adjusted to its full up position. Approximately 80 percent of all passenger vehicles in the United States have adjustable head restraints, yet studies indicate less than 10 percent of occupants adjust them properly.

Two other Explorer features that should be adjusted before hitting the road are the adjustable brake and accelerator pedals and tilt/telescoping steering wheel that allow drivers of different statures to position these controls at a comfortable distance closer or farther away from them.

Adapting to the road; Taking curves and all terrain
While the new Explorer’s driver and passengers can easily adjust interior features to their liking, the Explorer seamlessly adjusts to external driving conditions. Two new-for-2011 technologies that perform in this adaptable manner are Curve Control Hill and a terrain management system.

Curve Control, which makes its debut on the Explorer, senses when a driver is taking a curve too quickly and rapidly reduces engine torque and can apply four-wheel braking, slowing the vehicle by up to 10 mph in about one second. The system can be useful when drivers are entering or exiting freeway on- or off-ramps with too much speed.

The new Explorer gets adventurous by offering Ford’s first intelligent four-wheel-drive (4WD) control system that optimizes vehicle capability by integrating powertrain and braking controls to provide appropriate traction for any driving conditions. Terrain management is activated by a console-mounted, switchable knob, enabling 4WD control through an intuitive choice of settings that eliminates guesswork with simple icons that represent the climate or surface situation drivers may encounter.

“The Explorer’s terrain management system and Curve Control are predictive technologies that are designed to work with the driver to respond to varying road conditions or potential hazards,” said Jim Holland, Explorer chief nameplate engineer. “They help the Explorer and its driver adapt to changing conditions.”

Adapting to the driver’s mood
Explorer drivers will be able to adjust the ambience of their vehicles in several ways. First they can personalize the interior by selecting from a spectrum of seven different ambient lighting colors, for the gauge cluster, foot wells, cup holders, door map pockets and rear foot wells. Drivers and passengers also can get comfortable with the Explorer’s dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control.

Other adaptive technologies on the new Explorer include:

MyKey™ which helps encourage safer teen driving and seat belt use, and allows owners to program the vehicle key to incorporate features such as limited top vehicle speed and audio volume.

Ford SYNC® in-car connectivity system with 911 Assist™ - designed to assist occupants in using their paired cell phone to place a call to a local 911 operator should an accident occur that activates an airbag or the emergency fuel cutoff.
HomeLink gives the vehicle the technology to learn up to three garage door and power gate remote control codes, eliminating the need to clutter the interior with separate remote control units.

Reference by Ford Motor Company

ALL-NEW, 7-SEAT FORD C-MAX TO JOIN NORTH AMERICAN LINEUP IN 2011, BUILDING SMALL CAR RANGE

Ford will launch the all-new, 7-seat C-MAX in North America in late 2011 as a "whitespace" vehicle
Revealed today at Frankfurt Motor Show, the new C-MAX brings "kinetic design" language to the compact segment, combining bold styling and versatile, spacious 7-seat layout
C-MAX is the first of a new generation of Ford global C-cars scheduled for introduction during the next several years; lineup also will include next-generation Ford Focus
New C-car architecture will underpin more than 2 million vehicles per year worldwide, providing economy-of-scale and value benefits for consumers
DEARBORN, Mich., Sept. 15, 2009 – Ford Motor Company has confirmed that the new 7-seat C-MAX introduced today at the Frankfurt Motor Show will arrive in North America beginning late 2011.

In North America, the "whitespace" vehicle will be one of up to 10 unique models the company will create from an all-new global C-car platform developed under its One Ford strategy.

The all-new, next-generation Ford Focus sedan and five-door hatchback models are scheduled to launch late in calendar year 2010 in the United States.

More Information:

Ford Global C-Car Strategy
Ford Global EcoBoost Strategy
Global EcoBoost Fact Sheet
More News from Frankfurt
Soundbites: All-New, 7-Seat Ford C-MAX
Photos Videos
En EspañolWith the market introduction of the 7-seat C-MAX in late 2011, Ford will offer customers in North America three distinct models in the important compact segment, which is expected to show continued growth in the coming years.

According to Ford analysts, small cars in the B- and C-segments accounted for less than 15 percent of the U.S. market in 2004. In year-to-date sales through August 2009 however, the small car segment has reached nearly 22 percent of total industry sales – and further gains are expected.

"Consumers are seeking uncompromised vehicles offering value for the money, and C-MAX squarely hits those targets," said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Ford Global Product Development. "The Focus C-MAX will be great to look at, great to sit in and great to drive, bringing Ford DNA to a new market segment in the form of an aspirational, fuel-efficient people carrier."

Exterior design elevates segment
The new Ford Focus C-MAX demonstrates that compact, 7-seat vehicles can be stylish and desirable while still delivering outstanding space and functionality.

"The C-MAX brings more emotive, dynamic design to the segment, along with a great driving experience," said Mark Fields, Ford's president of The Americas. "People will gravitate toward C-MAX for the way it looks and drives, and not just because it's practical and versatile – and that's going to help us reach a whole new group of customers."

Bold exterior and interior designs have been created using the latest evolution of Ford's "kinetic design" form language, building on the themes established in recent product introductions like the hugely successful European-developed Fiesta, Kuga and Mondeo ranges.

Kinetic design elements applied to the new C-MAX include the dynamic, rising beltline, full sculpted surfaces, bold wheel lips, strong athletic shoulders supported by a prominent undercut line and the distinctive kick-up of the window graphic at the C-pillar.

The front end design also features Ford's signature trapezoidal lower grille – with a special "piano black" finish on the Frankfurt Show vehicle.

Offering seating for up to seven, the C-MAX destined for North America features a high roofline and thin pillars to emphasize the generous room and visibility in the cabin. Twin sliding doors are neatly integrated, with the rail concealed by the undercut line on the shoulder of the vehicle.

Stylish, modern interior
The new C-MAX interior mirrors the dynamic and modern character of the exterior, complete with muscular, expressive shapes and bold graphics.

Key design features include the taut, wing-like form of the upper instrument panel (IP), which reaches out to the sides of the interior. A dramatic sweeping form connects the IP with the center console.

The cockpit provides a commanding, raised driving position with high-mounted shifter and center console inspired by the acclaimed layout in the new Fiesta. Carefully designed storage areas are located throughout the cabin, including generous door pockets, a large glove box and additional compartments and cup holders in the center console.

Ingenious 7-seat layout
To maximize the versatility of the 7-seat layout, Ford engineers developed a new seat-folding mechanism for the three second-row seats. This mechanism allows the center seat to fold quickly and easily under one of the two outboard seats, creating a handy walk-through space between them.

This walk-through space allows passengers to access the third row without having to disturb the two outer seats, which is particularly helpful when those positions are occupied by child safety seats. Owners have the option of using the convenient 2+2+2 seating layout or switching to a full 7-seater when required.

The second- and third-row seats also have been cleverly engineered so they can be folded to create a flat load floor, regardless of how many seats remain in use. All of the folding mechanisms are designed so they operate with just one hand.

New generation of global Ford C-segment cars
The C-MAX is the first of a new generation of global C-segment cars scheduled for introduction by Ford over the next several years. This series of new models will include the launch globally of the next-generation Ford Focus beginning late 2010.

The new C-car family is the result of an unprecedented global development program and is loaded with an array of advanced vehicle technologies that will enhance safety, convenience, comfort and driver satisfaction. Up to 10 models and more than 2 million vehicles per year based on this platform will be sold by Ford around the world when the entire launch is complete.

"By concentrating resources and making big commitments to the small car segments in North America, Ford is proving it's doing business differently," Fields said. "Following the launch of the Fiesta and the next-generation Focus in 2010, and the launch of the BEV Focus and a 7-seat model in 2011, Ford will offer customers at least six small cars, and they're going to be truly exciting designs packed with the latest vehicle technologies."

Reference: Ford Media

Thoroughbred Ford -Free Concert Tickets!

Saturday July 10

Rock N’ Roll Dream Concert
Tribute bands Houses Of The Holy (Led Zeppelin), Edge of Forever (Lynyrd Skynyrd), 7 Bridges Road (The Eagles) and Silver Bullet (Bob Seger) will be performing at this year's Rock N' Roll Dream Concert.

6pm Doors, 7pm Show All Ages

Free tickets available for this concert at Thoroughbred Ford! All you have to do is come to our front desk and ask for them. We will run out quick, so get them before they run out!!

FORD POSTS FIRST QUARTER 2010 NET INCOME OF $2.1 BILLION AS STRONG NEW PRODUCTS FUEL PROFITABLE GROWTH

Ford reports first quarter net income of $2.1 billion, or 50 cents per share, a $3.5 billion improvement from first quarter 2009. Pre-tax operating profit of $2 billion, or 46 cents per share, a $4 billion improvement from first quarter 2009++
Ford Automotive operations posted first quarter pre-tax operating profit of $1.2 billion, a $3.2 billion improvement from first quarter 2009++
Ford North America reported first quarter pre-tax operating profit of more than $1.2 billion, a $1.9 billion improvement from first quarter 2009; Ford Europe earned a pre-tax operating profit of $107 million, a $692 million improvement from a year ago++
Revenue for the quarter totaled $28.1 billion, a $3.7 billion improvement from first quarter 2009++
Strong response to new vehicles drove the largest quarterly U.S. market share gain since 1977
Ended the quarter with $25.3 billion of Automotive gross cash, with operating-related cash outflow of $100 million. Ford ended the quarter with $34.3 billion in Automotive debt
Ford Motor Credit Company reported first quarter pre-tax operating profit of $828 million, an $864 million improvement from first quarter 2009
Based on Ford’s improving performance, the gradually strengthening economy, and its present assumptions, Ford now expects to deliver solid profits this year with positive Automotive operating-related cash flow
Download Full Financial Release (PDF)
Download Slides (PDF)
Financial Results Summary+
First Quarter

2009
2010
O/(U) 2009
Wholesales (000) ++
986
1,253
267
Revenue (Bils.) ++
$ 24.4
$ 28.1
$ 3.7




Operating Results ++



Automotive Sector (Mils.)
$ (1,963)
$ 1,195
$ 3,158
Financial Services Sector (Mils.)
(62)
815
877
Pre-Tax Results (Mils.)
$ (2,025)
$ 2,010
$ 4,035




After-Tax Results (Mils.)
$ (1,793)
$ 1,761
$ 3,554




Earnings Per Share+++
$ (0.75)
$ 0.46
$ 1.21




Special Items Pre-Tax (Mils.)
$ 363
$ 125
$ (238)




Net Income/(Loss) Attributable to Ford



After-Tax Results (Mils.)
$ (1,427)
$ 2,085
$ 3,512
Earnings Per Share
$ (0.60)
$ 0.50
$ 1.10




Automotive Gross Cash (Bils.)
$ 20.9
$ 25.3
$ 4.4
See end notes on page 8.
DEARBORN, Mich., April 27, 2010 – Ford Motor Company [NYSE: F] today reported first quarter 2010 net income of $2.1 billion, or 50 cents per share, a $3.5 billion improvement from first quarter 2009, as strong selling new products, improvements in its global Automotive operations, and higher profits at Ford Credit boosted results.
Excluding special items, Ford reported pre-tax operating profit of $2 billion, or 46 cents per share, an improvement of $4 billion from a year ago. It marked Ford’s highest quarterly pre-tax operating profit in six years.
Ford North America posted first quarter pre-tax operating profit of more than $1.2 billion, a $1.9 billion improvement from first quarter 2009, as a result of higher volume and mix and favorable net pricing. Ford operations in South America, Europe and Asia Pacific Africa as well as Ford Credit also posted pre-tax operating profits in the first quarter and improved results over the same period in 2009.
“The Ford team around the world achieved another very solid quarter, and we are delivering profitable growth,” said Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally. “Our plan is working, and the basic engine that drives our business results – products, market share, revenue and cost structure – is performing stronger each quarter, even as the economy and vehicle demand remain relatively soft.”
At the end of March, Ford entered into a definitive agreement to sell Volvo and related assets to Zhejiang Geely Holding Group for $1.8 billion, subject to customary purchase price adjustments. The sale is expected to close in the third quarter of 2010. As a result of the agreement to sell Volvo, all of Volvo’s 2010 results are being reported as special items and excluded from Ford’s operating results; 2009 data include Volvo.
Ford’s first quarter revenue was $28.1 billion, up $3.7 billion from the same period a year ago. If Volvo had been excluded from 2009, Automotive revenue would have increased by $7 billion, or more than 30 percent. Ford finished the first quarter with $25.3 billion in Automotive gross cash, an increase of $400 million since year end. Automotive operating-related cash outflow was $100 million during the first quarter, as Automotive pre-tax operating profit was more than offset by changes in working capital and other timing differences, as well as a $300 million payment to Ford Credit reflecting up-front subvention payment. The company ended the first quarter with total Automotive debt of $34.3 billion, an increase of $700 million compared to year-end 2009.
On April 6, Ford paid down $3 billion of the drawn amount of its 2013 revolving credit facility. This payment has reduced Automotive gross cash and debt by $3 billion, which will be reflected on Ford’s second quarter 2010 balance sheet. The action did not affect Automotive liquidity, as the repaid amounts remain available for borrowing.
Special items were a favorable pre-tax amount of $125 million in the first quarter of 2010, or 7 cents per share. Ford recorded a $188 million gain related to held-for-sale adjustments for Volvo, which was offset partially by $63 million of global personnel reductions and dealer-related charges. If Volvo had continued to be reported as an ongoing operation, Ford would have reported a first quarter pre-tax operating profit of $49 million for Volvo.
“We are seeing the benefits of our One Ford plan around the world,” said Lewis Booth, Ford executive vice president and chief financial officer. “All of our business operations – North America, South America, Europe, Asia Pacific Africa and Ford Credit – were not only profitable, but also showed substantially improved results over a year ago.”
The following discussion of first quarter highlights and results are on a pre-tax basis and exclude special items. See tables following “Safe Harbor/Risk Factors” for the nature and amount of these special items and any necessary reconciliation to U.S. GAAP. Discussion of Automotive cost changes is measured primarily at prior-year exchange, and excludes special items and discontinued operations. In addition, costs that vary directly with volume, such as material, freight, and warranty costs are measured at prior-year volume and mix.
ADDITIONAL FIRST QUARTER 2010 HIGHLIGHTS
Increased U.S. market share by 2.7 percentage points to 16.6 percent and a 14.1 share of the retail market, fueled by strong sales of Fusion, F-150, Taurus and Focus
Achieved market leadership in Canada, boosting market share to 15.5 percent and increasing sales by 29 percent
Increased sales by 14 percent in the South American region and sold a record 88,000 vehicles in Brazil
Increased sales in Europe and achieved a 9.4 percent market share. In March, Ford was the best selling brand in Europe for the 19 markets we track
Ford Asia Pacific Africa increased sales by 39 percent as the Fiesta gained momentum in several markets
Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles achieved the highest customer satisfaction and the fewest number of “things gone wrong” among all full-line manufacturers, according to the first quarter Global Quality Research System survey for the U.S.
Revealed new global Ford Focus, which goes on sale early next year in North America and Europe, and in 2012 for Asia
Revealed 2011 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX, which reach showrooms this fall and will be the first vehicles to feature MyFord Touch and MyLincoln Touch
Unveiled the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, expected to be America’s most fuel-efficient luxury sedan
Announced partnership with Microsoft to use Microsoft Hohm as a platform to help future owners of Ford’s electric vehicles manage energy use
Began production of Figo small car for India; received 10,000 orders in first month on the market
Began production of the next-generation F-Series Super Duty lineup with new fuel-efficient diesel and gasoline engines
Announced Ford’s electric vehicles plan is extending to Europe with plans to launch five full-electric or hybrid vehicles for European customers by 2013
Announced plan to increase investment in Brazil and Argentina by $450 million to more than $2.6 billion by 2015
Announced $2.3 billion investment in U.K. manufacturing facilities over the next five years to support production of low-carbon emission vehicles
Announced $400 million investment in South Africa to support production of Ford’s next-generation compact pickup truck and Puma diesel engine
Confirmed $400 million investment in Chicago Assembly Plant and the addition of 1,200 jobs to support production of the next-generation Ford Explorer
AUTOMOTIVE SECTOR
Automotive Sector+
First Quarter

2009
2010
O/(U) 2009
Wholesales (000)
986
1,253
267
Revenue (Bils.)
$ 21.0
$ 25.4
$ 4.4
Pre-Tax Results (Mils.)
$ (1,963)
$ 1,195
$ 3,158
For the first quarter of 2010, Ford’s worldwide Automotive sector reported a pre-tax operating profit of $1.2 billion, compared with a loss of $2 billion a year ago. The improvement reflected higher volume and mix, as well as improvements in net pricing across all Automotive segments.
Total vehicle wholesales in the first quarter were 1.3 million, compared with 986,000 units a year ago. Worldwide Automotive revenue in the first quarter was $25.4 billion, up from $21 billion a year ago.
North America: For the first quarter, Ford North America reported a pre-tax operating profit of more than $1.2 billion, compared with a loss of $665 million a year ago. The improvement was more than explained by higher volume and mix and favorable net pricing. First quarter revenue was $14.1 billion, up from $10 billion a year ago.
South America: For the first quarter, Ford South America reported a pre-tax operating profit of $203 million, compared with a profit of $63 million a year ago. The increase was more than explained by favorable exchange and net pricing, offset partially by higher costs. First quarter revenue was $2 billion, up from $1.4 billion a year ago.
Europe: For the first quarter, Ford Europe reported a pre-tax operating profit of $107 million, compared with a loss of $585 million a year ago. The improvement was explained primarily by higher volume, lower costs, and higher parts profit. First quarter revenue was $7.7 billion, up from $5.8 billion a year ago.
Asia Pacific Africa: For the first quarter, Ford Asia Pacific Africa’s pre-tax operating profit was $23 million, compared with a loss of $97 million a year ago. The improvement was more than explained by higher profits of unconsolidated China joint ventures driven by higher industry volumes , favorable net pricing, increases in industry volume outside of China and favorable exchange. First quarter revenue was $1.6 billion, up from $1.2 billion a year ago.
Other Automotive: Other Automotive consists primarily of interest and financing-related costs and resulted in a first quarter pre-tax operating loss of $391 million, more than explained by net interest expense of $492 million.
FINANCIAL SERVICES SECTOR
Financial Services Sector+
First Quarter
(in millions)
2009
2010
O/(U) 2009
Ford Credit Pre-Tax Results
$ (36)
$ 828
$ 864
Other Financial Services Pre-Tax Results
(26)
(13)
13
Financial Services Pre-Tax Results
$ (62)
$ 815
$ 877
For the first quarter, the Financial Services sector reported a pre-tax operating profit of $815 million, compared with a loss of $62 million a year ago.
Ford Motor Credit Company: Ford Credit reported a pre-tax operating profit of $828 million in the first quarter, compared with a pre-tax loss of $36 million a year ago. The improvement primarily reflected lower depreciation expense for leased vehicles due to higher auction values and a lower provision for credit losses, offset partially by lower volume.OUTLOOK Ford said it continues to make progress on all four pillars of its plan:
Aggressively restructuring to operate profitably at the current demand and changing model mix
Accelerating the development of new products that customers want and value
Financing the plan and improving the balance sheet
Working together effectively as one team, leveraging Ford’s global assets
Overall, Ford said its performance this year is off to a more encouraging start than anticipated. Based on Ford’s improving performance, the gradually strengthening economy, and its present assumptions, Ford now expects to deliver solid profits this year with positive Automotive operating-related cash flow.
Ford expects full-year 2010 U.S. industry sales will be in the range of 11.5 million to 12.5 million, consistent with the guidance previously communicated by the company.
In Europe, Ford now expects full-year industry volume will be in the 14 million to 15 million range, which is somewhat higher than the previous guidance. The change reflects strong first quarter results, although uncertainty remains in Europe about the extent of payback from scrappage programs.
Initial quality improved across all of Ford’s regions based on the latest Global Quality Research System survey. Ford is on track to meet full-year quality targets.
As mentioned previously, Ford has achieved significant structural cost reductions over the past four years, and in 2010 expects full year Automotive structural costs to be somewhat higher as Ford increases production to meet demand.
Ford expects full year U.S. total market share and its share of the U.S. retail market to be equal or improved compared with 2009 and Europe market share is expected to be equal to 2009.
Ford expects second quarter 2010 production to be up compared with year-ago levels and up compared to first quarter 2010 production. The increase reflects strong customer demand for our products, the maintenance of competitive stock levels, and the non-recurrence of prior year stock reductions.
Ford now expects Ford Credit’s 2010 profits to be about the same as 2009. The recent improvements in used vehicle auction values and credit loss performance are expected to offset the effects of lower average receivables and the non-recurrence of certain favorable 2009 factors.
“We are absolutely committed to building great products, a stronger business, and contributing to a better world,” Mulally said. “Our product lineup is stronger than ever, and our leadership in quality, fuel efficiency, safety, smart design and value is resonating with consumers.
“We remain cautiously optimistic about positive signs emerging in the global economy, while knowing that the recovery is fragile and the global auto industry continues to deal with excess capacity. For us, the most important thing we can do is to stay focused and continue to make progress on our plan,” Mulally said.
Ford’s 2010 planning assumptions regarding the industry and operating metrics include the following:
Planning Assumptions
First Quarter

Full Year Plan


Full Year Outlook
Industry Volume (SAAR)*





– U.S. (million units)
11.2

11.5 – 12.5

On Track
– Europe (million units)**
16.0

13.5 – 14.5

14.0 – 15.0






Operational Metrics





Compared with Prior Year:





-- Quality:
Improved

Improve

On Track






-- Automotive Structural Costs***
$100 Million Lower

Somewhat Higher

On Track






-- U.S. Total Market Share (Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury)
16.6%

Equal/Improve

On Track
-- U.S. Share of Retail Market****
14.1%

Equal/Improve

On Track
-- Europe Market Share **
9.4%

Equal

On Track






Absolute Amount:





-- Automotive Operating-Related Cash Flow
$(100) Million

Positive

On Track
-- Capital Spending
$900 Million

$4.5 to $5 Billion

On Track

FORD EXPECTS TO DELIVER SOLID PROFITS IN 2010WITH POSITIVE AUTOMOTIVE OPERATING-RELATED CASH FLOW
**********
Includes medium and heavy trucks European 19 markets we trackStructural cost changes are measured primarily at prior-year exchange, and exclude special items and discontinued operationsEstimate
Ford’s production volumes are shown below:
Production Volumes
Actual
Forecast

First Quarter 2010
Second Quarter 2010

Units (000)
O/(U)2009 (000)

Units (000)
O/(U)2009 (000)





Ford North America
574
225
625
174
Ford South America
110
11
135
25
Ford Europe
442
99
448
50
Ford Asia Pacific Africa
194
79
213
73





CONFERENCE CALL DETAILSFord Motor Company [NYSE:F] releases its preliminary first quarter 2010 financial results at 7 a.m. EDT today. The following briefings will be conducted after the announcement:
At 9 a.m. EDT, Alan Mulally, president and chief executive officer, and Lewis Booth, executive vice president and chief financial officer, will host a call for the investment community and news media to discuss first quarter 2010 results.
At 11 a.m. EDT, Bob Shanks, Ford vice president and controller, Neil Schloss, Ford vice president and treasurer, and K.R. Kent, Ford Motor Credit Company vice chairman and chief financial officer, will host a conference call for fixed income analysts and investors.
The presentations (listen-only) and supporting materials will be available on the Internet at www.shareholder.ford.com. Representatives of the news media and the investment community participating by teleconference will have the opportunity to ask questions following the presentations.
Access Information – Tuesday, April 27Earnings Call: 9 a.m. EDTToll Free: 866-318-8620International: 617-399-5139Earnings Passcode: “Ford Earnings”
Fixed Income: 11 a.m. EDTToll Free: 866-318-8613International: 617-399-5132Earnings Passcode: “Ford Fixed Income”
Replays – Available after noon day of the event through Tuesday, May 4www.shareholder.ford.comToll Free: 888-286-8010International: 617-801-6888
Passcodes:Earnings: 73198326Fixed Income: 99284554
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 176,000 employees and about 80 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and, until its sale, Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company.
# # #
+ The financial results discussed herein are presented on a preliminary basis; final data will be included in Ford’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2010. As a result of Ford’s agreement to sell Volvo, 2010 results for Volvo are being reported as special items and excluded from operating results; 2009 operating results include Volvo unless otherwise indicated. As disclosed last quarter, the new accounting standard for variable interest entity consolidation, effective Jan. 1, 2010, required Ford to deconsolidate many of its joint ventures. In addition to results in the first quarter of 2010 reflecting this new standard, 2009 results have been adjusted to reflect the deconsolidation of many of Ford’s joint ventures, with Ford’s joint venture in Turkey, Ford Otosan, being the most significant. For wholesale unit sales and production volumes, amounts include the sale or production of Ford-brand and JMC-brand vehicles by unconsolidated affiliates. JMC refers to our Chinese joint venture, Jiangling Motors Corporation. See materials supporting the April 27, 2010 conference calls at www.shareholder.ford.com for discussion of wholesale unit volumes. Discussion of overall Automotive cost changes is at constant exchange and excludes special items and discontinued operations; in addition, costs that vary directly with production volume, such as material, freight, and warranty costs, are measured at constant volume and mix (generally, by holding constant prior-year levels). See tables following the "Safe Harbor/Risk Factors” for the nature and amount of special items, and reconciliation of items designated as “excluding special items” to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). Also see the tables following "Safe Harbor/Risks Factors” reconciliation of Automotive gross cash and operating-related cash flow to GAAP. ++ Excluding special items. +++ Excluding special items and “Income/(Loss) attributable to non-controlling interests.” See tables following "Safe Harbor/Risk Factors” for the nature and amount of these special items and reconciliation to GAAP. Safe Harbor/Risk Factors
Statements included herein may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on expectations, forecasts, and assumptions by our management and involve a number of risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those stated, including, without limitation:
Further declines in industry sales volume, particularly in the United States or Europe, due to financial crisis, deepening recession, geo-political events, or other factors;
Decline in market share;
Lower-than-anticipated market acceptance of new or existing products;
An increase in or acceleration of market shift beyond our current planning assumptions from sales of trucks, medium- and large-sized utilities, or other more profitable vehicles, particularly in the United States;
A return to elevated gasoline prices, as well as the potential for volatile prices or reduced availability;
Continued or increased price competition resulting from industry overcapacity, currency fluctuations, or other factors;
Adverse effects from the bankruptcy, insolvency, or government-funded restructuring of, change in ownership or control of, or alliances entered into by a major competitor;
A prolonged disruption of the debt and securitization markets;
Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, commodity prices, and interest rates;
Economic distress of suppliers that may require us to provide substantial financial support or take other measures to ensure supplies of components or materials and could increase our costs, affect our liquidity, or cause production disruptions;
Single-source supply of components or materials;
Labor or other constraints on our ability to restructure our business;
Work stoppages at Ford or supplier facilities or other interruptions of production;
Substantial pension and postretirement health care and life insurance liabilities impairing our liquidity or financial condition;
Worse-than-assumed economic and demographic experience for our postretirement benefit plans (e.g., discount rates or investment returns);
Restriction on use of tax attributes from tax law "ownership change;"
The discovery of defects in vehicles resulting in delays in new model launches, recall campaigns, or increased warranty costs;
Increased safety, emissions, fuel economy, or other regulation resulting in higher costs, cash expenditures, and/or sales restrictions;
Unusual or significant litigation or governmental investigations arising out of alleged defects in our products, perceived environmental impacts, or otherwise;
A change in our requirements for parts or materials where we have long-term supply arrangements that commit us to purchase minimum or fixed quantities of certain parts or materials, or to pay a minimum amount to the seller ("take-or-pay" contracts);
Adverse effects on our results from a decrease in or cessation of government incentives related to capital investments;
Adverse effects on our operations resulting from certain geo-political or other events;
Substantial levels of Automotive indebtedness adversely affecting our financial condition or preventing us from fulfilling our debt obligations (which may grow because we are able to incur substantially more debt, including additional secured debt);
Failure of financial institutions to fulfill commitments under committed credit facilities;
Inability of Ford Credit to obtain competitive funding;
Inability of Ford Credit to access debt, securitization, or derivative markets around the world at competitive rates or in sufficient amounts due to credit rating downgrades, market volatility, market disruption, or other factors;
Higher-than-expected credit losses;
Increased competition from banks or other financial institutions seeking to increase their share of financing Ford vehicles;
Collection and servicing problems related to finance receivables and net investment in operating leases;
Lower-than-anticipated residual values or higher-than-expected return volumes for leased vehicles;
New or increased credit, consumer, or data protection or other regulations resulting in higher costs and/or additional financing restrictions; and
Inability to implement our One Ford plan.
We cannot be certain that any expectation, forecast, or assumption made in preparing forward-looking statements will prove accurate, or that any projection will be realized. It is to be expected that there may be differences between projected and actual results. Our forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of their initial issuance, and we do not undertake any obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. For additional discussion of these risks, see "Item 1A. Risk Factors" in our 2009 Form 10-K Report.
Download Full Financial Release (PDF)

Ford Quality

Ford Beats Every Auto Company in Quality*
July 24, 2009
It’s a mark of higher quality, and it’s official: Ford had fewer problems than any other auto maker. In a second-quarter study conducted by the RDA Group of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, Ford moved past Toyota, which it has been tied with in the past.*

The survey compares issues per 1,000 vehicles. For the second quarter of 2009, it showed that new Ford, Mercury and Lincoln cars and trucks had 1,185 issues per 1,000 vehicles. Toyota had 1,215 problems and Honda Motor Co. had 1,291.

The study also rates customer satisfaction, and reported that Ford in tied with Toyota in this segment.

“We’ve been tied with Toyota before, but it sure feels better to be on the top!” says Bennie Fowler, Ford’s global head of quality. “We can all be pleased with the progress we have made in quality, even as we face external and internal challenges in a tumultuous climate. Our progress has come as the result of our union partnerships in the U.S., Canada and Mexico, along with the work of dedicated teams in manufacturing, product development, purchasing, marketing, sales, service, legal, IT and others who follow disciplined, standardized processes.”

Reference: Ford Motor Company

2010 Ford Taurus Award

2010 FORD TAURUS WINS FIRST-EVER EDMUNDS.COM TECHNOLOGY BREAKTHROUGH AWARD

2010 Ford Taurus

Click here to download related images.The 2010 Ford Taurus is the winner of the first-ever Edmunds.com Technology Breakthrough Award; the award was presented today at the 2010 International CES (Consumer Electronics Show®) in Las Vegas

The Taurus offers more user-friendly technology than other cars twice its price, including 10 class-exclusive technologies not available from any other manufacturer

In addition to receiving the Edmunds.com Technology Breakthrough Award, the Taurus is serving as the official vehicle of CES, and the 2010 Taurus SHO was dubbed Esquire magazine’s first-ever “Car of the Year”

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 7, 2010 – America’s most innovative sedan, the hot-selling 2010 Ford Taurus, is the winner of the first-ever Edmunds.com Technology Breakthrough Award. The announcement was made today at the 2010 International CES (Consumer Electronics Show) in Las Vegas.



“We chose the 2010 Ford Taurus to receive the first annual Edmunds.com Breakthrough Technology Award because the vehicle offers an extensive and impressive array of electronic amenities that also represent an excellent value for consumers,” said Doug Newcomb, senior technology editor, Edmunds.com.



The Edmunds.com Technology Breakthrough Award is presented to vehicles that set the standard for intuitive, practical and affordable technology that enhances safety and convenience

for drivers and passengers. Any new vehicle available for sale within the U.S. within the last year is eligible to receive the award.



With its expressive styling, the Taurus offers more user-friendly technology than other cars twice its price, including 10 class-exclusive technologies not available from any other manufacturer.



“In addition to the innovative Ford SYNC® system that provides voice-activated Bluetooth and iPod connectivity and free features such as 911 Assist™ and turn-by-turn navigation, the Taurus also has heated and cooled Multi-Contour Seats with Active Motion™, Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross Traffic Alert, SIRIUS Travel Link™ and SecuriCode™ Keyless Entry Keypad,” said Newcomb.



Other class-exclusive features include:



Easy Fuel® Capless Fuel Filler – a self-seal system without a traditional fuel cap. No lost, dangling or spinning caps. It seals automatically every time.

Sony Audio® System – a surround-sound system that delivers Dolby® Digital

5.1 sound through 12 high-quality Sony speakers.

Available EcoBoost™ V-6 – a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine that delivers the output of a V-8, 365 horsepower, without compromising its V-6 fuel economy.

MyKey™ – a programmable feature that allows parents to limit top speed and audio volume and set speed alert chimes to encourage safer driving.

In addition to receiving the Edmunds.com Technology Breakthrough Award, the Taurus is serving as the official vehicle of CES, and the 2010 Taurus SHO was dubbed Esquire magazine’s first-ever “Car of the Year.” Since going on sale in August 2009, Ford's all-new Taurus has received more than a dozen awards from an array of leading consumer and automotive publications.



For additional coverage of the Edmunds.com Technology Breakthrough Award, visit http://blogs.edmunds.com/strategies/.



# # #



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 200,000 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.

2010 Ford Taurus @ Thoroughbred Ford

The All New 2010 Ford Taurus SHO

This car will be on display all day today at Kansas City's best dealer, Thoroughbred Ford . This evening from 5-8PM we will be having the Premiere of the all new 2010 Ford Taurus, and we will have a 2011 Ford Fiesta for your viewing pleasure.

Come Join us this evening Monday June 15, 2009

Thoroughbred Ford
8501 N Boardwalk
Kansas City, MO 64154

816-505-1818
info@thoroughbredford.com

2010 Ford Fusion

If you haven't seen this car yet WOW!



At Thoroughbred Ford, Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer, we have several 2010 Ford Fusion's on our lot at the moment. If you liked the 2006-2009 Fusion, you will love this one. The handling is better, the engines are re-tuned, the look is more refined and the interior appointments are sharper. All around this car is a great vehicle. Come on by and take one for a spin.



Reviews:

MSN Autos
LeftLane News
the Car Connection
Yahoo!
Cars.com

Ford Raises the Bar!

Ford Raises the Bar and Sets the Standards!

This is a reprint of an article in Advertising Age!

Ford Leaving Chrysler, GM in Its Rearview

Strategy to Build Brands, Discount Less Pays off As Automaker Steals Share

By Jean Halliday

Published: March 09, 2009

DETROIT (AdAge.com) -- Suddenly, the wind is at Ford's back.

Maybe it's the rising quality of its cars. Maybe it's the halo surrounding Ford for passing up federal funds being devoured by its Detroit rivals. Or it could simply be Ford's focus on building image in its marketing while others flog incentives. But for whatever reason, America seems to have decided that Ford is a better idea after all.

Ken Czubay, VP-sales and marketing at Ford

Through January, Ford Motor Co.'s retail-market share had risen for four consecutive months for the first time in 14 years, and that share was coming from General Motors and Chrysler. New data from CNW Market Research show that 19% of consumers who planned to buy a GM passenger car in January or February instead bought a Ford, Lincoln or Mercury. Some 15% of people who set out to buy a Chrysler or Dodge car in January instead switched to one of Ford's brands.

"Times like these can provide opportunities for us to distance ourselves for the long term," said Ford's Ken Czubay, VP-sales and marketing. "We are doing fine from a conquest standpoint."

Indeed, in the first two months of the year, the number of qualified buyers who planned to buy a Ford jumped 16% from 2008, CNW said. Qualified buyers who intended to buy GM fell 12% and Chrysler 33%.

Huge leap
That's a remarkable feat for Ford, considering that until three years ago, it was running ads tagged with the rather pathetic plea, "If you haven't looked at a Ford lately, look again."

"To be able to grow even a little bit of share in such a tough market is an accomplishment," said Cameron McNaughton, president of auto consultant TreeFarm Partners. Ford "is doing a terrific job."

More impressive is that Ford has moved up in America's estimation even though it has not touted in marketing the fact that it hasn't accepted a government handout. Ford said it never really considered doing so, figuring its limited funding is better spent on brand building.

But another reason may be it simply doesn't need to. CNW President Art Spinella said 93% of Americans already know Ford is not now dependent on government funds, while 95% of consumers polled by his company know GM and Chrysler are on the dole.

Any ads by Ford along those lines "would absolutely be the wrong thing to do because it would look like they're dancing on GM's and Chrysler's graves," Mr. McNaughton said.

Keeping quiet
"For Ford right now, the right way to handle this is to stick to their knitting," said one top industry creative with knowledge of auto accounts. "They should say the positive things about the quality of Ford products, as they've made huge strides, and their products are much, much better than ever before." He added: "The PR that they are getting around the whole bailout is doing that job for them."

Of course, there's also the real chance that Ford may have to stretch out its hand after all if its reorganization plans don't work out.

Ford also felt the brunt of the industry's worst sales in 40 years. Ford, Lincoln and Mercury's U.S. sales plunged 48% to 96,044 units vs. February 2008. And though Ford's retail share had climbed for four months, in February its retail share fell one point to 11.5%, which it attributed to an industrywide drop in full-size pickup sales, a category it dominates.

But if consumers were going to buy a truck, they were likely to think Ford. CNW data show that 32.6% of Americans who intended to buy a GM truck in January or February instead chose a Ford Motor product. Ford had the highest conquest rates from GM among the six biggest car companies and was tops for winning over consumers who initially intended to buy a Chrysler truck.

Even so, the Ford brand still has a way to go when it comes to cars. Toyota and Nissan managed to grab more consumers who intended to buy Chryslers, according to CNW.

Newfound confidence
With its newfound strength, Ford has also regained its ad swagger. The company is displaying a strong tone of confidence in its launch ads for the second-generation Ford Fusion midsize gas-powered sedan and first Fusion Hybrid. Ford's Matt Van Dyke, director-marketing communications, said the multimedia blitz, which includes four months of TV advertising that broke last week, targets the so-called "upper purchase funnel" of people who aren't in the market for a vehicle.

That strategy is the opposite of the one GM, Chrysler and other automakers in the crumbling new-vehicle market have been using, which is to heavily aim at people lower in the funnel, or closer to purchase.

Ford's approach will allow it to build brand equity and demonstrate that when Americans are ready to buy, there will be a Ford in their future. Mr. McNaughton said he likes the straightforwardness of Fusion's launch TV spots from WPP Group's JWT Team Detroit, which highlight fuel efficiency and the vehicle's Sync technology. "People don't want dancing girls; they want facts and information."

The automaker is also taking a different road in trying to wean itself off incentives. "We are zigging while some are zagging in the incentive world, and this is the way Ford Motor Co. is going to build for the future," Mr. Czubay said.

Incentive spending in the industry overall was up $400 per vehicle from January to February but down $800 at Ford, said George Pipas, sales-analysis manager for the U.S. at Ford.

"Retail messages with $5,000 off aren't enough" to woo buyers these days, Mr. McNaughton said. "Ford is taking the higher ground. That's really smart."

~ ~ ~
Contributing: Rupal Parekh

The Auto Show Comes to Town

The Greater Kansas City Auto Show

Starting yesterday and lasting through this Sunday, the greater Kansas City Auto Show will be at Bartle Hall. We will have several of our salesman there to assist you if you need anything. There are discount certificates at our receptionist desk if you are planning on going to the show.

We at Thoroughbred Ford recommend that you do go to the show and compare Ford's products to our competition. This will solidify why Ford is number one in quality and reliability.

Remember; "Why buy a Ford when you can own a Thoroughbred?"