Wednesday, February 28, 2007, posted by Jay Stevens at 10:07 PM


Ford Super Duty

The future of the Ford SuperDuty pickup trucks seems to be rather dim. And this can be quite attributed to the fact that Navistar International Corp., the creator of the diesel engines for this vehicle, has decided that it is high time that they stopped producing these products for the Ford Motor Company.

Such a drastic decision could actually prove to be fatal to the auto maker. After all, the engine, which is a very essential Ford part, is one of the features of the popular pickup that has caught the attention of the market. And with the company still trying to pick up the pieces after its stumble, it sure does look like this auto maker has yet to face another challenge on its way.

The fact that Ford did sue Navistar last January may have greatly affected the decision of the engine maker. Ford said that the lawsuit was actually because Navistar has not been able to keep up with the contract that both companies have signed before their business together started. However, Navistar is also saying that Ford has been the one who did keep their word when it came to the clauses of the contract. This engine creator also did mention that Ford has yet to pay for the truck engines that they have produced and delivered to the company.

This kind of disagreement could really get out of hand and could really affect both businesses’ revenues. How this will end, we would have to wait and see. As of now, let us just let these two giants find the solutions to the problems that they themselves have created.

 



, posted by Jay Stevens at 1:30 AM


Let’s face it; the interior of a vehicle is where comfort and safety is found. You wouldn’t want to have those increased back problems because of its hardened seats or cramped legs because the cabin doesn’t allow more room, wouldn’t you? I thought so. Ford Motor Company surely understands the need for comfortable and well-designed interior cabins and spared us the torture.

Due to buyer’s demands and expectations, Ford unleashed another vehicle seat comfort innovation. "The seat is one of the primary influences on consumers when they buy the vehicle," said Steve Nunez, supervisor of Ford's Active Comfort Engineering team. "It is the only part of the vehicle that the consumer is in contact with through the lifetime of ownership."

In Aachen, Germany, Ford researchers and engineers have begun developing a Multi-Contour Seat (MCS) which uses a pneumatic system with bladders between the frame and the foam cushion to adjust its outline shape. The seat frame requires only minor revisions thus reducing the cost and weight penalties associated with a full scale reconstructed seat frame.

MCS modernizes the pneumatic system with allotting more than 10 air cushions and many other new features - talk about plunging yourself down to its cuddly cushion comfort. Unlike normal seats, MCS covers a range of contours and accommodates various driver sizes and shapes, all the while providing great postural and lateral supports (you wouldn’t worry about driving hunchback) and helps to relax the back muscles with multiple bladders in both the seat back and seat pan.

This MCS isn’t prejudiced. It also allows the driver to configure his/her preferred seat mode in advance (sporty or comfort) and change to a particular setting at the touch of a button, adjusting to match driving conditions.

The list of features also include: sophisticated lumbar massage function, second function connects to four adjustable air cushions with constantly varied pressure, pyrotechnical buckle pretensioner, side air bags, anti-submarine humps, active seat motions are barely noticeable to the driver and along with its cooling parts for drivers to feel less sweaty and fatigued at the end of a long journey.

Ford researchers and engineers have outdone themselves in securing interior integrity while providing pleasure for road users: flexible packaging, superplastic forming (suitable for high-volume automotive applications), vehicle dynamics and noise reduction.
 



Monday, February 26, 2007, posted by Jay Stevens at 8:16 PM


Ford Motor Company researchers have been working hard to advance innovative hybrid solutions in tackling buyer demands. At the 2007 Washington D.C. Auto Show last January, Ford introduced a hydrogen-fueled, battery-powered plug-in Ford Edge.

Hybrid technologies are all the rage right now, a trend and a humane goal for a better world and environment. Unveiling the hybrid Edge in Washington helped in showcasing the vehicle and its technology in front of leading government officials.

"Besides the public, the audience in Washington includes the people in charge of energy and clean air policy so this is very much a showplace for exhibiting what Ford technology can do in the future," said Scott Staley, Ford's chief engineer for Hybrid and Fuel Cell Technology Development. The Edge is powered by the HySeries drive (a hybrid-electric propulsion system that uses the fuel cell power unit as a charger for the 336-volt lithium-ion battery pack), Ford’s innovative technological know-how.

Hybrid electric vehicles combine batteries and internal combustion engines (ICEs) in an arrangement that harnesses the strengths of each powertrain. Batteries provide energy for launch and power surges as needed while the ICE outweighs once the vehicle exceeds 30 mph accuracy.

Other advances:

Ford executes these technologies in their range of auto innovations. If you want to know more about these advances along with your fuel parts of course, here’s the gist:

Biofuels – it does play a primary role, along with ethanol and biodiesel. It combines hybrid electric power and flexible-fuel capability. Ford is producing 20 demonstration Escape Hybrid E85 vehicles and Ford researchers are also working to allow higher biodiesel content in future products. Deliveries will begin this spring.

U.S. Diesels – I guess this year proves to be a signpost for diesel vehicles. Ford researchers are developing new concepts to stress challenges with diesel of preserving high torque and efficiency at the same time reducing noise, smoke and acrid odors.

Nanotechnology – you can say it in a stutter but seriously, this is where dimensions are on scale of 1,000 times smaller than the girth of human hair. Ford’s focusing on ways to improve the performance of batteries in hybrid vehicles, increase hydrogen storage, strengthens cast aluminum used in engine blocks and other automotive applications.

Along with the Mercury Mariner Hybrid, Ford introduced the world’s first SUV Escape Hybrid in 2004. These two hybrids are among the cleanest and most fuel-efficient small SUVs in the market. Ford also plans to introduce various new hybrids in the future- a Mazda Tribute Hybrid and the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan midsize sedans.
 



Friday, February 23, 2007, posted by Jay Stevens at 7:35 PM


Ford Edge Hybrid

When gas prices soared to staggering heights and car owners and drivers were quite so confused on how they would budget their hard-earned money, car manufacturers may have been so quiet but they were thinking just how they would be able to give the market a product that they would really lap up especially during such a situation. After all, the market was really so desperate that if they were given Superchips and were told that using it would give the car added fuel economy, they surely would have gone for it.

What the Ford Motor Company did was to have their own share of researchers look into producing hybrid vehicles. And even when the gas prices have certainly gone down to normal, the company still has yet these researchers working on that project. After all, the market has given hybrid vehicles a niche and Ford seems intent on filling that up.

If you would remember, the company has already been able to send out a vehicle that would be its share in the hybrid market. The vehicle is the Ford Edge which first made its appearance this year at the Washington Auto Show. This Ford Edge version comes powered by a battery that could be recharged by simply plugging it into a wall socket. The vehicle also did come using an engine that could use hydrogen as fuel.

And when the curtains came off the Ford Edge, the Washington Auto Show goers were really that interested in the automobile. And luck was certainly on Ford’s side for during the unveiling, several of the high ranking officials and legislators in the government were there. I guess it is high time for these legislators to take a real closer look at hybrid vehicles like the Edge.

The Ford Edge is one vehicle that has been created under a program that was run by both Ford and the US Department of Energy. They call the vehicle to be one of the lucky automobiles to make use of the HySeries Drive which is a system that uses hybrid technology and electric propulsions to run. Its battery is a 336-volt battery made of lithium-ion.

 



Wednesday, February 21, 2007, posted by Jay Stevens at 10:16 PM



The Ford F-Series has added another mark in its resume. Border Patrol agents rely on Ford F-Series Super Duty trucks. Ford looks to increase its fleet presence on the front lines of national security by offering its quietest F-Series Super Duty ever with a new 6.4-liter Power Stroke Diesel engine.

Craig Fetty, Ford’s federal government fleet account manager declared, “The Border Patrol's Ford trucks are mostly diesel, because it gives them added low-end torque and greater range necessary to patrol the rugged border terrain.” I guess the 6.4L diesel Super Duty will be an advantage to the Border Patrol after all – with much proverbial quiet expectations.

Expectations were asserted as the vehicle is to climb over the next two years as the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) division of the Department of Homeland Security adds 6,000 border patrol agents to its current staff of 12,200 by the end of 2008 as part of "Operation Jump Start." "The U.S. Border Patrol is dramatically adding headcount," Fetty said. "And one of its priorities is to get four wheels under each of its agents."

The CBP already operates 9, 300 border patrol vehicles, planning more 4,000 trucks and SUVs as additions. One-third of the vehicles with the U.S Border Patrol operating Ford fleet vehicles are Fords and orders for more are coming in juts as the 2008 F-Series Super Duty hits the market according to Fetty.

"The vehicles are run 24/7 with one to two agents per vehicle. In fact, they're hardly ever shut off, because when one agent comes off duty, another is there waiting to go out," said Danny Conway, CBP assistant chief patrol agent in charge of fleet vehicles.

The reason why Conway specified the need for a quieter diesel is because last year, diesels have been significantly louder gas engines. And with increased demand the Border Patrol has ordered more of the Special Off-Road Package pickups.

"The pickups are working out well," Conway said. "They're sturdier for off-road patrols -- and the sturdier the better."

Who could argue with that?
 



Tuesday, February 20, 2007, posted by Jay Stevens at 8:31 PM


Roush Stage 3 BlackJack

An idea made into reality. Jack Roush never thought that the personalized car he displayed at the NASCAR will be sent to production. The car got plenty of attention when he brought it to the NASCAR. These positive reactions from the people towards the upgraded car prompted the Ford Motor Company to reproduce it.

The car made by Roush was sent to the Barrett-Jackson auction. Of course, something that is special should also come up with a special price. The car was identified as an extremely one of a kind collectible car. And if a vehicle is dubbed as such, you would most certainly have an idea how much you would have to shell out if you wanted one as your own.

Ford decided to reproduce the car and now the black Roush retuned Mustang was named the all-new 2007 ROUSH Stage 3 BlackJack. These powerful limited edition car is currently in dealerships now, and mind you, if you are willing to catch one of this sporty and elegant cars, you might need to put your feet on the line now because only 100 ROUSH Stage 3 BlackJack is reproduced.

Aside from that, who would not want to a car running with powerful powertrain parts of its V8 engine that can run on a powerful 430 hp with 400 lb.-ft. torque? Of course, with 38 lb.-hr. fuel injectors this is maybe the best car for you. New Ford parts have also been included on the new car so expect a high performance vehicle.

 



Wednesday, February 14, 2007, posted by Jay Stevens at 11:33 PM


mechanic

Ford is known to be a brand of quality and durability. However, you yourself cannot stop your Ford car from wearing out especially if it has been serving you for many years already. The fact is, it is your responsibility to have it repaired or to send it to a mechanic for a professional touch.

However, fraudulent companies and really dishonest people are anywhere. You might catch a fake mechanic while you are on your venture of looking for one. Looking for a professional mechanic is like choosing any other small business. Of course, you should always look for quality, value and service especially when it comes to parts and services for your beloved vehicle.

Look for someone who knows all about Ford parts, especially performance parts. eHow prepared special tips for you guys. Here read on and learn.

Instructions:
1. Ask trusted friends for recommendations.
2. Talk to people who have cars similar to yours, if you are new to an area.
3. Make sure the mechanic you've chosen services your type of car. Lookaround the shop and see what kinds of cars are being worked on.
4. Call the Better Business Bureau to check whether the shop has any complaints on file.
5. Check whether the shop is accredited by the American Automobile Association (AAA).
6. Ask whether the shop's mechanics are certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
7. Check the warranty on the repair work before leaving the car at the shop. Six months is great; 90 days is good; 30 days is a little suspect. Find out whether the warranty covers both parts and labor.
8. Ask for a full explanation of what is going to be done to the car.
9. Find out what the shop's hours are. Will it be open when you get off work? Is the shop near the bus or train? Will you get a loaner while your car is being worked on?

Don’t look for a mechanic when your Ford car is still functioning well. However, it is important that you bring your car to his shop for at least small problems like when you need to change the oil so as to establish a good relationship. Never choose a shop based on price. The less expensive shops might not give you the service you expect. So choose wisely.

 



Tuesday, February 13, 2007, posted by Jay Stevens at 8:09 PM




DreamWorks Pictures’ released the “Norbit,” comedy starring Eddie Murphy. The movie is yet another example of the Ford F-Series’ wide acceptance as the country’s defining pickup on and off screen.

“This is a ‘Super February’ for the new Ford Super Duty,” Cisco Codina, Ford’s group vice president of North American Marketing, Sales and Service, proudly states. “The new F-Series Super Duty is our most capable and refined pickup ever, and its presence at the movies, at the races and on the street are fitting ways to celebrate 30 years as America’s best-selling truck.”

Ford Trucks continues to build on that strong foundation, with all its high powertrain performance, Extang BlackMax truck tonneau splendor and power wheels as it hauls its heavy tasking load duties. Not surprising though is that Ford trucks are mostly seen in action movies.

Ford Facts:

• The presence on the big screen for the F-Series – America’s best-selling pickup – complements a major marketing effort this month for the new 2008 F-Series Super Duty.

• The 2008 Ford F-Series Super Duty with its new Power Stroke® Diesel engine is the boldest, most capable and cleanest Ford pickup ever.

• The new F-Series Super Duty is now arriving at dealerships, and 50,000 orders were placed even before the truck went on sale.

• The momentum for the F-Series pickup accelerates next weekend with a major presence at NASCAR’s biggest race of the year – the Daytona 500 on Feb. 18.

Catch the movie as it hits the big screens this week.
 



Friday, February 09, 2007, posted by Jay Stevens at 6:25 PM


Ford Montego

We all knew that the Mercury Sable sedan ended its production last 2005. Even the production of its twin brother, the Ford Taurus, has ended as well. But the twin brothers are coming back this year wearing the previous Montego and Five Hundred faces.

The previous Montego is now the 2008 Mercury Sable. Almost 60% of the customers remember the Sable. Ford is expecting to profit more in reincarnating the Sable.

Ford did not only change its name but its Ford parts as well. The 2008 Sable will be a sporting an updated styling. It will also be quieter and will have more safety features compared to the old Montego. In fact, the hood becomes 30% more powerful with its large V6 engine that produces 260 horsepower. An all wheel drive for a six-speed automatic transmission standard is just right for the new sedan.

It looks like a large version of Mercury's midsized Milan with a low waterfall grille and headlights that arch onto the hood. Added with aluminum side mirrors, chrome fog light borders and LED taillamps makes the new car looks freshly styled. Two continuous lines sweep down the hood and around the center of the bumper as well.

It also gets a new interior design with two-tone leather upholstery and contrasting stitching plus seat fabric and optional glossy trim pieces that resemble carbon fiber. It also holds the newest system the Ford Sync so entertainment while driving is never impossible.

Sable got its four-wheel-disc antilock brakes and six standard airbags including side-impact airbags for the front seats and side curtain airbags for both rows. Added with the exclusive Ford's Safety Canopy, which can keep them inflated for several seconds during a rollover, it has got an optional traction control and electronic stability system, safety is never questionable.

Labels: , , , ,

 



Thursday, February 08, 2007, posted by Jay Stevens at 11:29 PM




Ford Motor Co. today said it will bring back the Taurus and Sable nameplates, rechristening the Ford Five Hundred and Mercury Montego sedans for the 2008 model year. Ford also is renaming the Ford Freestyle crossover the Taurus X. The renamed vehicles will go on sale at this summer.

According to Mark Fields, Ford's President of the Americas, at the Chicago Auto Show, "Taurus has been an icon for Ford's family sedan for more than two decades, and it's time to return this powerful name to where it belongs.”

The new 2008-model Taurus sedan will replace the Ford Five Hundred and will be lined up against larger vehicles such as the Toyota Avalon sedan. The new Taurus features a Ford Fusion-inspired exterior design, new powertrain parts with 60 more horsepower, a new all-wheel-drive system, more standard safety features. It also includes standard electronic stability control which makes it more distinctive, quieter, faster and safer.

Since joining the automaker last year, Ford CEO Alan Mulally has publicly questioned the wisdom of dropping the Taurus nameplate. But In fact, it is one of top three most recognized Ford nameplates, behind only the F-Series and Mustang. Consumer awareness of the Taurus nameplate remains at an impressive 80 percent.

As Sable Returns to Mercury, it will offer the same differentiation that already is proving to be a success in the marketplace with the Mercury Mariner and Mercury Milan. Significant upgrades such as satin aluminum accents, high contrast interiors and upscale trim and detailing will distinguish the new Sable from the Taurus.