Ford Cars

New Ford Fiesta to be Manufactured in Cuautitlán

2008-06-06T22:02:00.000-07:00

The Ford Fiesta is a super mini car built by Ford Europe, a subordinate of Ford Motor Company. The Fiesta was created in the early 1970s when the Europeans demand for super minis was fast rising. At that time, Ford needed a small car to compete in this rising market. The car’s name Fiesta was owned by General Motors at the time, but to an unknown reason they have given it to Ford. Then the new Ford Fiesta was unleashed in late 1975.

Today the Ford Company has announced that the new Ford Fiesta will be produced at the Cuautitlán Assembly Plant starting in early 2010 (Cuautitlán is a city and in Mexico State). They also announced that a sporty European hatchback will be added for production to the North American lineup alongside this popular mini.

The plan for the new Ford Fiesta will be a bolder and more sophisticated design, so that it would be enough to exceed other cars in its category. Ford added that it will also be improved in terms of performance, design and fuel efficiency. Overall, “small cars sales have grown from 23 million units in 2002 to an estimated 38 million 2012” that is why ford is very much eager to release a new and much improved version of the fiesta.

According to Derrick Kuzak, Ford's group vice president, Global Product Development "The Fiesta is designed to set a new world standard for quality, design, fuel economy and comfort in the small car segment."

2008 Ford Mustang

2008-05-19T01:50:00.000-07:00

The 2008 Mustang is a 2 door, 4 passenger family coupe, sports coupe, convertible, or convertible sports car. It is one of the most widely recognized, nameplates in the automobile business. By now Ford offers a new mustang for the year 2008 in eight trim packages spanning the V6 Deluxe Coupe to the GT Premium Convertible. Ford and Shelby Automobiles will soon launch the 2008 Shelby GT500KR, the most powerful Mustang to date.

“The V6 Deluxe Coupe is equipped with a standard 4.0 liter, V6, 210-horsepower engine that achieves 17-mpg in the city and 26-mpg on the highway. The GT Premium Convertible is equipped with a standard 4.6-liter, V8, 300-horsepower engine that achieves 15-mpg in the city and 23-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard on both trims, and a 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional.”

A new black-mesh grille is devoid of the standard chrome pony and is accented by a satin aluminum strip that represents the chrome grille surround on the 1968 car. The interior is graphically clean. The only identifying marks visible inside Bullitt are the logo and gun-sight graphic. The Dark Charcoal leather seats pick up the diamond perforation inserts from the base Mustang GT.

Land Rover LRX Concept with iPhone

2008-05-15T01:28:00.000-07:00

The Land Rover LRX is a concept car from Land Rover which was introduced at the North American International Auto Show in January 2008. It is designed to cope up with the demand for a new Land Rover entry into the crossover sector. It is a bit more muscular than the average Freelander. But production version of this concept vehicle will hit showrooms later than 2009.
“The LRX concept also adopts intelligent power management systems and other technologies first shown by Land Rover in the Land_e concept in 2006. Further details of LRX's powertrain and sustainability technologies will be released at the Detroit Show.”

This car is also about the latest technology in the world for making the iPhone an integral part of the LRX's interior design. The iPhone is prominently displayed in the center console, and is used to complement the all the other LCD displays in the car.

The concept is built on an LR2 platform. Although the LRX is some 6 inches shorter and 7.5 inches lower than an LR2, but the wheelbase is about the same. Unlike other land rovers, the LRX is not designed for serious off-road purposes because it has its 20-inch wheels and low profile tires that are capable only for use on a flat dirt road. All best interior design details were combined to maximize both actual space and the feeling of space.

I can say that this is truly a nice car. It has a gorgeous interior. I guess Land Rover should devote more time to make this great piece of engineering realized soon.

Ford Airstream Concept Vehicle

2008-05-13T02:16:00.000-07:00

The Ford Airstream is a concept car which made its debut at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. The concept vehicle is powered by a rechargeable plug-in hybrid hydrogen fuel cell drive train. The drive train’s compact hydrogen fuel cell system is used to recharge a lithium-ion battery pack, which in turn powers the electric drive system. This advanced fuel cell system is half the weight and cost of today’s fuel cells and can operate in the dead of winter.

Ford Airstream has its unique style of having these reflective silver, bullet-like trailers that brought the creature comforts of home in a stylish package. The Ford Airstream includes asymmetric doors. The passenger side door is a power clamshell hatch that runs two-thirds the length of the vehicle for loading of passengers and cargo. The interior was inspired by spacecraft images and environments portrayed in 2001: A Space Odyssey according to Ford.

But I want to comment about the paint. There could be a high possibility that more traffic accident would be caused with its reflective paint. It is a terrific way to blind oncoming vehicles.

And one must be careful with the fingerprints! Keeping this thing clean would be a nightmare. Well, it’s a unique idea, I can say. At least it's not bland.

Concept cars are like the super models of the fashion world. No one expects to actually own those. But I think it s beautiful vehicle and I cannot wait till I see it on the road. Ford has some serious design identity right now.

American Idol Promotes Ford Hybrid Cars

2008-02-25T19:12:00.000-08:00

If General Motors takes the opportunity to promote its latest fuel-friendly vehicles during prestigious events such as the Grammy and Oscar Awards, well, Ford won’t allow itself be left behind.

In ford.com last Friday, the world’s third largest automaker confirmed that it will be giving out Ford Escape Hybrids to the top two American Idol finalists. Not only that, Ford will also be sponsoring an “American Idol experience” to one lucky fan who will receive grand prizes such as cash and a 2008 Ford Focus equipped with reliable suspension bushings. The winner will also be given the chance to attend the Tuesday and Wednesday American Idol finale shows. American Idol, as we all know, is an American reality TV show televised on Fox that features aspiring young singers competing for the grand title -- the American Idol. This year marks its seventh season and it will be made more meaningful by Ford’s commitment to support the show which entertains over 30 million viewers.

More than just plain advertisements, Ford will integrate its products in the show through a music video starring the final 12 contestants as they promote the Ford Focus, Ford Mustang and Ford Fusion in a creative and meaningful way to highlight its latest SYNC system -- a connectivity system technology that features voice-commands to digital media players, 911 Assist, and Vehicle Health Report via the SYNC website. This state-of-the-art technology is exclusive to only 12 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicle models.

As of press time, American Idol already had 243 episodes, enough to bring Ford closer to the homes of million American Idol fanatics.

Aside from the American Idol, Ford’s hybrid vehicles will also be featured in other high-rating TV programs including Oprah’s Big Give, ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition and Knight Rider.

Ford To Offer SmartAlert Services

2008-02-21T21:13:00.000-08:00

Do you wanna know if the car you’re driving belongs to the Top Ten list? Then better read on...

2001 BMW M Roadster
1998 Acura Integra
2004 Mercury Marauder
1999 Acura Integra
1995 Acura Integra
2002 Audi S4
1996 Acura Integra
1997 Acura Integra
2001 Acura Integra
2000 Jaguar XJR

Just to tell you, those cars were the top ten most stolen cars based from records provided by research firm R.L. Polk and Co., to Los Angeles Auto Insurance (LAAI). According to LAAI, owning any of these cars increases the insurance rate due to the theft rate. So they recommended installation of safety devices to lessen insurance rates.

One remarkable thing about Ford recently is its initiative to install safety systems although Ford vehicles are least likely to be stolen. In an article, Ford confirmed that it will be setting up new SmartAlert services in partnership with SkyWay Systems, a leading provider of vehicle safety and security service in US. This system has security features such as online wireless tracking and early theft detection that qualify its users for 33 percent insurance discounts.

Aside from those features, SmartAlert also empowers users to track their vehicle’s whereabouts immediately after a theft. According to Dr. Robert Yandrofski, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SkyWay Systems Inc., using Smart Alert encourages safe driving particularly to teenagers and small-business owners who want to monitor their vehicle’s condition. He added that it is the latest technology available that can stop thieves because it applies anywhere and can be installed regardless whether you’re using a new or an old vehicle. It works like a steering rack that keeps your car in the right direction by allowing you to trace its exact location. SmartAlert is connected to a call center that unlocks your car remotely plus it features speed alerts to prevent possible collision.

You may be asking how SmartAlert operates, don’t you? Well, SmartAlert communicates with its subscribers online via telecommunications and computer technologies such as email, phone or text messages. For the first year, SmartAlert installation costs $700 to $1,200, after which subscribers will be required to pay monthly fees.

This system will be available in Ford, Lincoln and Mercury dealers.

Fiesta: Ford’s Global Name For Small Car

2008-02-15T16:58:00.000-08:00

The newest breed of small cars from the Ford Motor Company has been baptized with the global name Fiesta. The company’s latest small car family will make use of this name worldwide. Ford’s announcement yesterday marked another company highlight. So raise your glasses, cheers and yell happy for the Fiesta!

The Auto Channel reported that Ford’s small car was initially developed and designed in Europe. This vehicle is intended for customers from around the globe between 2008 and 2010, in more than five continents such as Europe, Asia and North America to name a few. The all-new Fiesta is the pioneering major product of the company’s latest worldwide product expansion process. The Fiesta preserves a title with over 30 years of accomplishments connected to it.

"The new Ford Fiesta captures every aspect of what's defined Ford as a small-car leader in Europe and builds on it in terms of driving dynamics and design. When it arrives in North America in 2010, the Ford Fiesta will set a new standard in the small car segment. Even before it arrives in this market, though, the new Fiesta demonstrates how leveraging our global strengths can yield attractive benefits for customers around the world," eplained Mark Fields, president of the Americas for Ford Motor Company.

Ford Fiesta’s vibrant new form along with its striking body parts and global family of small cars was seen earlier this year in three Ford Verve Concept vehicles.

"With the all-new Fiesta, we want to create a world standard for small car quality, design and comfort in a vehicle that is as exciting to drive as it is to look at. We believe this all-new model will attract a whole new generation of small car buyers, whether they are in Britain, Spain, China or California. The new Ford Fiesta will set the standard for delivering to our customers products they really want and value while taking advantage of our wonderful global resources,” says Alan Mulally, Ford Motor Company President and CEO.

"The new Ford Fiesta is an example of how good a small car can be. The Fiesta is great to look at, great to drive and it has quality you can see, feel and touch. It's going to be an important growth product for North America," he concluded.

Ford’s “World Car” Captivates Europe

2008-02-11T17:32:00.000-08:00

“Mundus” is Latin for “world". Fits just right for what Ford considers as a “world car.”

While Ford sales declined in United States last month with a reported four percent decline, the world’s third largest automaker announced last week that its European sales jumped by 1.5 percent. Reports from Reuters said that the European division of Ford sold about 142,460 vehicles equivalent to a market share of 9 percent in January.

Surprisingly, this rise in sale was boosted by none other than its revamped Mondeo model which sold 16,800 units. That means a 50 percent increase in sales compared to the previous month. The Mondeo, a huge family car, debuted in March 1993. Back then, it was available in three trims which includes a four-door saloon, a five-door hatchback and a five-door estate. Designed to be a “world car,” Ford Mondeo cost the auto company about US$6 billion, thus, replacing the Ford Sierra in Europe.

In March last year, Ford launched its latest Mondeo model - a Mondeo sedan which as expected earned profit for the company in Europe. The 2008 Mondeo sedan boasts of a smooth and stress-free road experience made possible by a collision mitigation technology, the vehicle feature that alerts the driver during potentially dangerous circumstances on their route. It also has an adaptive cruise control (ACC), equipped with a radar system that is able to automatically slow down when the vehicle suddenly brakes in front as well as seven airbags, soft ambient lighting and an information screen. This gives the drivers enough safety and comfort that they need while traveling.

According to Ford Active Safety Supervisor Volker Weinhold, this makes the vehicle more beneficial because it offers an immediate action from the car’s braking system.

The 2008 Mondeo sedan is a five-door hatchback or wagon. According to automobilemag.com, it has a gorgeous design like the previous generations of mid-size Mondeo vehicles, as stylish as an Acura Legend spoiler. It comes with an engine that range from a 1.8-liter diesel to a five cylinder gas unit and is capable of 200 horsepower.

Stephen Odell, Ford of Europe vice president of marketing, said that the company expects this positive trend in sales to continue with Ford’s introduction of a new Focus small car, Kuga crossover and a new car based from the Verve concept on this year’s Geneva Motor Show.

New Coupé-Cabriolet Will Join New Ford Focus Family

2008-02-06T17:50:00.000-08:00

A happy family wouldn’t be complete without the basic members like the father, mother, brother, sister and baby. It can also be compared to a car! An automobile won’t have the capacity to run without its basic components like the engine, wheels, and mufflers to name a few. So why are we tackling family stuff? Let’s ask Ford about that!

A few months ago, Ford established their newest Ford Focus family. However, the group fell short with one model to complete the family. But today, the last vehicle needed to fill up the line has arrived! The all-new Coupé-Cabriolet will be the latest addition to Ford’s Focus family. Ford.com reported that the four-seater Ford Focus Coupé-Cabriolet will have its first ever worldwide exposure at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show. Joining the Focus family are the three-door, four-door, five-door, wagon and sporty ST models.

"As with the generic new Ford Focus, with the Focus Coupé-Cabriolet we also felt the importance of aligning this charismatic vehicle with our 'kinetic design' language as soon as possible," says Stephen Odell, Vice President Marketing for Sales and Service at Ford of Europe.

"The new Ford Focus Coupé-Cabriolet is a special blend: We felt that the new very 'kinetic' front end design will perfectly complement the timelessly-elegant, Italian flavoured profile and rear end design. The result is a perfect mix of latest level Focus dynamics and the special Coupé-Cabriolet design execution that we had already developed jointly with Pininfarina," says Chris Bird, Design Director at Ford of Europe.

Here are few of the several cool features of the all-new Coupe-Cabriolet courtesy of Ford.com:

Available 'Ford Power' button for keyless start, plus keyless entry system
Standard emergency hazard warning light activation system (Info: except Finland and Sweden)
New optional Tyre Deflation Detection System (DDS)
New audio connectivity module for external devices and new levels of Bluetooth ® and USB connectivity, voice control and navigation systems
New navigation systems include an affordable navigation option with 'SD' card slot as well as a DVD based system with 7" colour touchscreen
Digital Audio Broadcast (DAB) tuner on Sony radio system available

Green Taxis Thriving

2008-01-31T17:49:00.000-08:00

In 2005, Dearborn automaker FoMoCo delivered 33 units of Ford Escape Hybrid units in New York and California to be used by cab drivers. This action was taken as part of the company's testing of the Escape Hybrid, the first SUV to have a gas-electric hybrid powertrain.

During that time, there were doubts whether the Ford Escape Hybrid's nickel-metal hydride battery units will be able to stand up the challenges faced by an ordinary cab day in and day out. There have those who predicted that the battery packs of the hybrid SUVs will not be really efficient and it will soon burn itself out quite prematurely.

But the battery packs of the vehicles stood up to the challenge and today, the 33 hybrid SUVs used for cabs still have their original battery packs in place. That means the Ni-MH batteries are really that good. Apart from the Ni-MH batteries lasting three long years, the hybrid powertrain of the Ford Escape Hybrid helped cab drivers and operators save thousands of dollars in fuel consumption.

Damien Tedone, section supervisor of HEV Controls Applications at Ford, said: "We're pleased especially with the battery life - regular Escape Hybrid owners should be, too." The dependability of the Ni-MH batteries can even be compared to that of Acura belts.

Gil Portalatin, Ford manager for Hybrid Applications, said: "If you think about it, taxi drivers put more stop-and-go into one vehicle in a day than regular customers will ever do. And what vehicle has its doors opened and shut - or flung open and slammed shut - more than a taxi?" That's really a good point and hopefully, this would attract more people to Ford dealerships asking about the Ford Escape Hybrid.

Johnny Depp’s Movie Needs Props

2008-01-28T21:54:00.001-08:00

My friend is a Johnny Depp fanatic. And I really mean a total fanatic. She has quite a collection of his movies. She has ordered via eBay items signed by Johnny Depp himself. She is currently planning on moving to Wisconsin so that she could be there when Johnny starts filming his new movie Public Enemy.

This friend of mine just recently told me that the people behind the movie with Michael Mann as the director and the person at the helm are looking for some props for the movie. And guess what they are looking for? Not really people as extras. I’m talking props here guys. Okay, I really do need to tell you. They are looking for Toyota truck parts. Nah. Just joking.

The real deal? Public Enemy needs classic cars. A report even said that the director was looking for quite a number of classic units. The vehicles have to be those roaming the streets in the 1930s for that would be the setting of the movie. There has also been news that the production team is searching for Ford V8s that came after the Ford Model A that was manufactured in the 1930s. You may have one in your garage and that could bring you money, you know.

Mann is looking at around 60 units which they would rent from the owner. Or the production team may also buy the unit.

I think my friend is now scouring for a classic car. Good thing she has the resources or her Johnny Depp habit may not be satisfied. If she does procure a classic and the unit gets chosen, she may be sending the car over. She won’t need cash as payment. All she’ll ask would be the access to where Johnny Depp is.

So You Want To Be A Hero

2008-01-22T17:03:00.001-08:00

Not because it's quiet doesn't mean it's not fatal. Though colorless, odorless and tasteless, carbon monoxide exhausted by car vehicles is one primary pollutant that puts the health of humans and other living things at risk. According to reports from World Health Organization, about 2.4 million people die each year due to air pollution. Throwing ALL cars around the globe into junk would have been the BEST solution to the world's emergent problem on air pollution (Scavengers and junk shop owners would have been the richest people in the world, I tell you!) if not for some reduction efforts initiated by mobile companies like Ford.

Since 1998, the Ford Motor Company had been sharing the responsibility of protecting the earth's atmosphere by producing flexible-fuel vehicles (FFVs). FFVs, or commonly called flex-fuels, are automobiles that can run by using either regular gasoline or natural gas like bioethanol. In a press release, Ford announced today that three additional FFVs namely Ford Expedition and Lincoln sports utility vehicles and Ford E-Series full size vans and wagons will be included in its 2009 car models line-up.

"The expansion of our FFV line up to include Expedition, Navigator and E-Series provides a great alternative for customers who are committed to becoming more environmentally conscious and seek alternative fuel vehicles either for their business or for personal use. This includes government and business customers that are mandated by the Energy Policy Act (EPACT) to purchase alternative fuel vehicles," said Ford's Fleet Marketing Manager Gerald Koss.

In addition, Koss assured its customers that these new FFV offerings will give them the E-85 or as its name signifies, 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent additives like gasoline capability in vehicles with attributes similar to that of a full size van or large sports utility vehicle.

Steps in converting one's car into an E85 can be found in an article in which details were provided like in an Acura Integra repair manual.

Ours is a finite earth. And yes, it's safe to say that we are mere stewards of everything therein. Stewards not masters. Do you want to be a hero? Here's an easy rule: Get your car converted or choose Ford FFVs. 'Coz not because the carbon monoxide your car emits is quiet doesn't mean it ain't fatal.

More Powerful Green Autos

2008-01-22T16:47:00.000-08:00

Ford, the Dearborn automaker which gave the world the first ever mass produced gas electric hybrid SUV, is proud to once again introduce a powerful, spacious, and green auto in the form of the 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid and Mercury Mariner Hybrid. These two vehicles are both on display at the ongoing Washington Auto Show and Automotive News World Congress.

Apart from the said vehicles, the automaker also announced that they will be expanding their work on the development of alternative fuel technologies. The automaker announced that three additional models will be given a powertrain that can be powered by E85.

During the announcement, Ford President and Chief Executive Officer Alan Mulally had this to say: "This year, we make good on our commitment to freshen our showrooms. We just introduced the new 2009 Ford F-150 last week, and it was a hit. We also have Lincoln MKS and Ford Flex coming, as well as a new Mustang early next year."

Sue Cischke, Ford senior vice president for Sustainability, Environment, and Safety Engineering, meanwhile added: "Ford Motor Company is increasing fuel economy and cutting greenhouse gas emissions with affordable technologies for millions of customers. In the near term, we will leverage existing technologies to achieve those goals, including advanced engines and multi-speed transmissions. The 2009 Escape and Mariner are great examples of how we're delivering today."

During the announcement, the automaker highlighted the improvements made on the hybrid vehicles which are obviously much more valuable than an Acura radiator. Here are some of those improvements:

Aerodynamic improvements, including a new front fascia chin spoiler and rear tire spoilers also play a role in the fuel economy story.
A new 16-inch Michelin tire design offers improved rolling resistance that contributes to fuel efficiency, while also bringing improvements in quiet operation, steering and handling, and stopping distance.

Ford Unveils Small Car Vision For North America

2008-01-18T18:02:00.000-08:00

Last year, Ford Motor Company launched the stunning Verve concept at the Frankfurt Auto Show in Germany, and without a doubt, the automotive world was fascinated and stunned at the same time. The Verve can definitely break a ball joint because of its amazing beauty and sophistication. It was like watching the future of small cars and beyond!

According to the Auto Channel, Ford has unveiled the Verve at the 2008 North America International Auto Show in Detroit a few days ago. The Verve is a concept vehicle that showcases a comprehensive idea for the new small cars that will be introduced by the company in North America.

"We're looking at every aspect of what's defined Ford as a small-car leader in Europe and working to build on this expertise in driving dynamics and design across a global family of Ford cars that are as exciting to drive as they are to look at," says Derrick Kuzak, Ford's group vice president, Global Product Development.

"The Verve concept family provides a vision for a new world standard for quality, design and comfort in the small car segment. These concepts demonstrate how leveraging our global strengths can yield attractive benefits for our customers in markets around the world," Kuzak added.

"Millennials will be the defining group of customers in the future, driving all types of consumer trends. Ford's European-based cars are a great fit for this generation of drivers, who have grown up with the Internet and mobile phones as necessities, not luxuries - believing that bigger isn't necessarily better, precision is everything and technology rules," says Jim Farley, Ford's group vice president, Marketing and Communications.

Ford Sets Sales Record In Europe

2008-01-11T16:58:00.000-08:00

Ford may be seeing its market share and sales decline in the United States but it does not mean that it is not doing well in other markets across the world. The Auto Channel recently reported that the automaker broke its record for sales in Europe last year.

The reason for this is the increased demand for the automaker's new line of stylish vehicles. The Ford Fiesta and the Ford Focus are the best selling vehicles for the automaker in Europe. Sales for the Focus increased to 496,600 in 2007. For the Fiesta, sales have reached 378,220. These two vehicles with their auto parts as reliable as tough radiators are expected to bring more customers to Ford's dealerships in Europe.

Stephen Odell, the vice president for marketing, sales, and service at Ford of Europe is obviously thrilled with their performance. "I am delighted with our performance in 2007," said Odell. "Including sales from our European Direct Markets, we sold close to 1.9 million vehicles last year. That's about 110,000 vehicles more than we sold in 2006. In 2006 we sold some 80,000 vehicles more than we did in 2005, so in the past two years we have added some 200,000 sales to our bottom-line."

"Selling over 100,000 more vehicles was a spectacular performance. Transit was up by 30,000 vehicles, Mondeo increased by 17,000 as we started to get full production of that model, S-MAX was up by 33,000 and Galaxy by more than 41 per cent to 10,000 units," he continued.

Odell also named the markets in Europe where they have seen significant growth saying: "Our share in France was up to 5 per cent, which is a great recovery for us. Products like the C-MAX did very well, as did S-MAX and Galaxy. We also had a great year in Italy, selling 23,900 vehicles more than in prior year and increasing our share. We also did very well in Spain, especially with Mondeo and Fiesta. Turkey sold over 100,000 units, despite a lower industry in the first eight months of the year."

Ford's 22-Year Low Reflects Economy Concern Says Mulally

2008-01-10T04:54:00.000-08:00

Obviously, Ford’s got a lot of patching up to do. And its execs can pretty well attest to that fact.

FoMoCo's slide to a 22-year- low in its stock price reflects “concern about the state of the U.S. economy,'' said the company’s CEO Alan Mulally. “Clearly, most of the parameters of our economy are associated with a real slowdown,'' he explained at a dinner in Dearborn. “Everything has deteriorated more than we anticipated,'' which “puts a lot of pressure on confidence of consumers.'' Mulally did not divulge whether the United States was in a recession.

The Dearborn-based automaker “wouldn't do anything different because of the stock price,'' Mulally said. The company will adjust production to lower vehicle demand and remains committed to returning to profitability in 2009, he said.

At present, Ford is in strict compliance with its turnaround plan. It has entertained a significant number of job cuts, plant closures, and other cost-cutting measures to defray the expenses of its plan. In 2006, the Dearborn automaker lost $12.6 billion. This is the main reason why the Ford clan recruited the 62-year-old Mulally in September of 2006 to lead the company into profitability.

"We do want to stabilize share," Mulally told the Free Press, referring to Ford's steadily declining car and truck sales since 2000, "and then we want to start growing it again. But we're not going to draw an arbitrary line about where that happens."

Mulally said that he is particularly impressed with how quickly Ford's culture has changed from one of historically feuding fiefdoms to that of a concerted team focused on one plan worldwide. "We are one-and-a-half to two years ahead of where I thought we'd be on the culture," he added.

Mulally intends to stabilize the American share of its main Ford, Lincoln and Mercury brands at 14-15%. Last year, the brands compose 14.8% of the domestic market.

Ford was surpassed by Toyota for no. 2 in U.S. vehicle sales, behind General Motors. To stress, the automaker had held the slot since 1931 and hadn't been no. 3 or worse since 1905. Ford hasn't posted a U.S. market share gain since 1995, when it accounted for one in every 4 cars and trucks sold, Bloomberg said.

If Ford achieves its 2009 profitability goal, the automaker “will be rewarded,'' Mulally said. Ford's sales in China rose 30% helped by sales of the Focus sedan, he added. Ford also released a statement saying its China sales totaled to 216,324 vehicles in the previous year.

EcoBoost: The Power That’s Ford

2008-01-07T17:45:00.000-08:00

How much power is Ford capable of giving? Connect it with EcoBoost.

In an interview with MSNBC, Jim Farley, Ford’s new marketing chief, has this to say: "I couldn't wipe the smile off my face. I've never driven a Toyota like that, ever. The torque, out of that kind of displacement - in this case a 4-cylinder - was shocking."

"I think this is really going to be a brave one. We're going to have to invest. We're going to have to tell customers how we're different," he added. "Direct-injection gas is really a technology that could be implemented in the millions. It's significant. It's broader."

Farley, who left Toyota to join Ford, will have a challenging task selling EcoBoost, the automaker’s new direct-injection, turbocharged engine.

"We need to simplify things for customers. As marketers, it's unrealistic to expect customers to understand high-pressure direct injection or forced induction in turbocharging," he told The Associated Press in a recent interview. "Let's face it. Ford is a populist brand. On a good day, when Ford works right, it's a company that democratizes technology."

"We can't unlock this unless we're real honest. We have to look in the mirror and say, 'OK, no baloney. Where are we with customers? Take away Mustang and F-series, and where are we? Who are we?'" he noted. "When I do that, I see customers who want Ford to succeed, but they put the burden of responsibility on the company to unlock that key. You tell me why I should care about your company."

The Dearborn-based automaker is trailing its path back into profitability. And the EcoBoost is one way of rising again. Upgrades on axle assembly, auto equipment and other car parts would definitely uplift Ford’s standing.

EcoBoost Details

WHAT THEY ARE: Ford EcoBoost four-cylinder and six-cylinder gas engines, which feature turbocharging and direct-injection technology.

WHAT THEY DO: Ford says EcoBoost engines will deliver up to 20% better fuel economy and improve CO2 emissions by 15%. Direct-injection means that fuel is injected into each cylinder of the engine in small, precise amounts, while turbocharging uses waste energy from the exhaust gas to drive the turbine.

WHERE THEY'LL BE: The EcoBoost will debut as an option on the 2009 Lincoln MKS sedan, which is due out later this year. Eventually, Ford plans to install the engines across its lineup. Ford says it plans to put EcoBoost in 500,000 vehicles annually over the next five years.

HOW MUCH THEY'LL COST: Ford did not give figures, but said customers would be able to recoup their initial investment through fuel savings over two-and-a-half years, which would be less time than it would take to recoup the investment in a diesel or a hybrid.

WHY THEY'RE IMPORTANT: Other automakers, including General Motors Corp., Audi and Volkswagen, are using the same technology, but on a small scale to improve performance. Ford says it will be the first to use the technology on such a wide scale.

[credit: MSNBC]

1 Million SYNC In 2009 With SIRIUS Travel Link

2008-01-04T17:55:00.000-08:00

The SYNC made a great impression to the worldwide automotive market since the time Ford introduced this magnificent product a few months ago. According to my source, Ford Motor Company’s prized SYNC™ system is one of the industry’s rising stars in the automotive world at present. The company announced that they will carry out and expect to sell 1 million units of the SYNC in 2009.

The Ford SYNC™ is enhanced with the help of Microsoft. The end product is one that connects people and their preferred convenient gadgets while their inside the vehicles - devices like media players and Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones. This technology is as hot as a smoking radiator and it is exclusive to Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles. The SYNC reached 10,000 units sales in the last quarter of 2007.

Ford has already announced that several new features are coming this 2008. Almost each new Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicle will be offered with Ford’s award-winning SYNC system by the end of the year.

Furthermore, it will direct in-car connectivity even beyond the limits with the launch of a future navigation system available in the SIRIUS Travel Link for the first time ever. The system links vehicle passengers to their needed information - right when they need it.

“SYNC is already a hit among customers for its exceptional Bluetooth-connectivity for mobile phones and full voice control of media devices including MP3 players on the road, but we’re not stopping there,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president of Global Product Development.

“Ford is answering customers’ calls for even greater connectivity with the best technology solutions from companies like Microsoft and SIRIUS, connecting customers with mobile devices, important information they need on the road and bringing the experience to life with the latest in navigation technology and branded audio,” Kuzak said.

Ford Sync Impressive In 2007

2008-01-01T20:05:00.000-08:00

Dearborn based automaker Ford is currently implementing its turnaround plan after years of being beaten by Japanese automakers in the United States auto market. Although the company is known for its large vehicles such as the Ford F-150, it is slowly making a name for itself in smaller car classes. And to make their products more enticing to consumers, the automaker has teamed up with Microsoft to create an advanced in-car technology we known today as the Ford Sync.

Gary Jablonski, manager, Vehicle Telematics at Ford had this to say: "It was a very small, passionate group that took a great idea and pushed it to production in a very short amount of time."

According to Ford's newsletter: "Sync allows users to integrate their Bluetooth-enabled phones and most digital music players, including Apple iPods, Microsoft Zunes, and other MP3 players, and most USB storage devices into their Ford vehicles for hands-free, voice-activated use."

"We want Sync to be as widely available as possible," said Jablonski. "We’re putting it into Ford Focus first. We believe that younger customers tend to use cell phones and iPods more, and we are targeting them. They represent a huge audience that will want this in their cars. We’re offering Sync at a price (U.S. $395) that we feel will get Focus on their shopping lists," he added.

Velle Kolde, product manager for Microsoft's Automotive Business Unit had this to say: "Ford and Microsoft worked closely together to design and engineer Sync, which is based on state-of-the-art Microsoft Auto software. Using software that bridges the automotive and consumer electronics industries, Ford Sync will help revolutionize the driving experience by providing a simple system that intelligently connects mobile phones, music players, and more." This in-car technology is as reliable as Acura engine parts.

The Top Ten Hot Sedans

2007-12-28T20:47:00.000-08:00

This is the list of the top ten hot sedans:

Audi S8
Audi RS 4
Infiniti G35
Lexus ES 350
Lexus LS 460
2008 Lexus LS 600h L
2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Toyota Camry Hybrid
Volvo S80

Forbesauto.com describes the Audi S8 as having an Italian heart and a German body with it being a hot-blooded stunner. As usual, safety's first for Volvo's priciest and plushest model, but now there's more added style for the fashion-conscious, the site described the Volvo S80.

Most of the cars on the list were European cars and only Lexus car models were the ones from Japanese car maker Toyota Motor Corporation. Infiniti also had an entrant. I was disappointed to see the maker of Acura CL thermostat not part of the list.

Ford Develops Abdomen Prototype For Child Crash Tests

2007-12-27T22:43:00.000-08:00

As I have posted earlier, Ford has launched its Child Safety Program. In support to this, the Dearborn automaker is now developing a high-tech insert, similar in size and shape to a 6-year-old's abdomen.

The insert is designed for crash test dummies to help improve vehicle safety for children. The prototype is part of an effort to make pediatric crash dummies and crash tests more real world, leading to better vehicle restraints, according to the automaker’s release.

Partners to the venture include Wayne State University in Detroit, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, and the Takata Corp., which manufactures vehicle safety systems.

Crash tests mainly have focused on head and chest injuries, according to Steve Rouhana, a technical leader in Ford's crash dummy testing. "But the lack of an abdomen is not just a matter of priority," he said. "We really didn't have the technology before to accurately measure abdominal response."

The silicone prototype features an LED and optical sensor surrounded by a high-viscosity, red or blue silicone fluid. Sensors measure penetration based on the amount of light absorbed by the silicone fluid.

As we know, it takes a very clever dummy to find new ways to avoid injuries in vehicular accidents. Good thing Ford has taken another step to further child safety.

"The major focus [of crash tests] has always been on head and chest injuries," Ford safety engineer Steve Rouhana said. "We really didn't have the technology before to accurately measure abdominal response." To speed the research, he added, Ford will offer the technology to other automakers early in 2008 through the Society of Automotive Engineers.

But more children who are too large for child-safety seats but too small to be adequately served by adult seat belts have been suffering such injuries in crashes. The silicone shell can measure the penetration of seat belts into a youngster's abdomen. With those test results and data from actual crashes, Ford is looking to improve seat-belt designs for children not restrained in booster seats, which are recommended until age 8, Chicago Tribune reported.

"We do lots of development with virtual tests but, ultimately, we have to have a physical test. We don't want to be surprised when NHTSA does its test," Rouhana said.

The new dummies and virtual people are a far cry from its ancestors. The primitive devices that represented an average-size male (about 5 feet 6 inches, 170 pounds) could measure mainly head and chest injuries. Now, NHTSA uses a family of dummies that includes a 6-month-old, a 6-year-old, a small adult woman (about 5 feet tall, 108 pounds), a pregnant woman and a large man (6 foot 2 inches tall, 225 pounds), the report said. The dummies are designed for specific tests, such as front or side impact or whiplash, and can measure injuries to the neck, ribs, hips and internal organs.

"We need the precision we know we can get from using dummies in tests that can produce consistent results," said NHTSA spokesman Rae Tyson.

Auto parts like engine, bumper, radiator and more continue to get tougher. This means that safety features should go hand in hand with the development.

Child Safety Program Launched By Ford

2007-12-27T17:23:00.000-08:00

The yuletide season is the perfect time for sharing. The old folks are definitely right - Christmas is all about giving love and care. Do you think you’ve already given your share of good deeds this holiday? I hope so! Recently, I was at the receiving end and it feels so good. I just got a brand new brake master from my boss.

Anyway, talk about sharing good deeds, the Ford Motor Company has once again offered innovative and caring stuff for children. It’s the Child Safety Program that features the right installation of child safety seats to their save lives.

According to Ford’s headlines, the Ford Motor Company Fund is launching See Me Safe, a Child Passenger Safety (CPS) program in cooperation with Nashville's Meharry Medical College in an endeavor to tackle this significant matter. Ford’s program started to reach out in Detroit last November, this month in Dallas and Nashville coming on board in January.

"By establishing a core network of health care providers, from physicians, to nurses, to pediatric trauma response teams, and by working directly with parents, Ford Motor Company Fund is taking strides to ensure auto safety for children," says Jim Vella, president, Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services, during the event.

"This program is valuable to Detroit," said Shawn Levitt, chief operating officer, Children's Hospital of Michigan. "It not only extends Children's ongoing community child passenger safety education to parents, but also equips frontline health care providers with information to discuss with their patients and families."

Meharry carries out pre- and post-event surveys to verify whether respondents have augmented their level of awareness and whether their attitudes have changed as a result of the training to make sure the triumph of the See Me Safe program.

"As the largest, private, comprehensive historically black institution for educating health professionals and scientists in the United States, Meharry Medical College is a perfect partner for this program. See Me Safe focuses on narrowing the gap between what is and what can be in child passenger safety by helping parents and medical professionals learn about important life-saving measures," says Osei Mevs, associate vice president, External Affairs, Meharry Medical College.

Latvala Takes Gronholm's Seat At Ford

2007-12-17T04:09:00.000-08:00

Jari-Matti Latvala, Finland's pride, will take the seat of Marcus Gronholm at Ford's main team in the upcoming season, the company announced Sunday.

Latvala, 22, looks forward to having a nice season in 2008. The Finn will be racing with teammate Mikko Hirvonen, with Ford keeping an all-Finnish lineup.

Hirvonen will become the team's lead driver, according to Reuters. "He (Latvala) has gained confidence by the day and has developed into the most promising driver in the WRC this season," said Ford team boss Malcolm Wilson in a statement. "His performances on the second half of the season put him in pole position for the drive. Marcus and Mikko have worked wonderfully together and I hope that Mikko will pass on to Jari-Matti the experience he has learned," he added.

What does the Blue Oval team has to say?

"The man who so convincingly kept the BP-Ford team at the top of the leader board throughout the year is Marcus Grönholm. We couldn't have won 'two in a row' without Marcus and Timo delivering results so consistently. We're really fortunate to have had them both on the team, and we're proud of what they have achieved for Ford. Marcus and Timo have been one of the sport's most successful pairings of all time - in fact their 30 victories have earned Marcus second place on the list for all-time rally wins. Such is Marcus' standing in the sport that we did not want to lose him entirely from our team. We are asking Marcus to take an ambassadorial role for Ford of Europe next year," said Lewis Booth, Vice Chairman for Ford of Europe.

"Ford of Europe is planning for a long-term success in the WRC. Our young but experienced team, with Mikko Hirvonen and Jari-Matti Latvala, is a clear statement of intent. We believe these two young Finns will become stars of the sport and we're delighted to offer them the opportunity to grow and develop with Ford over the next few season, while providing all-important stability and consistency within the team," said Ian Slater, Vice President Communications of Ford of Europe.

Slater added: "Jari-Matti is only 22, but already he has started more than 50 WRC events and his level of experience is higher than many older drivers. He has developed greatly under Malcolm's guidance in a privately-entered Focus RS World Rally Car during the past two seasons. Towards the end of the 2007 season Jari-Matti has shown he is ready to step up to a full works drive: witness his outstanding third place in Rally Ireland last month. They will debut for us in January's Monte Carlo Rally."

"With this incredible car and team we look forward for a 2008 full of successes," concluded Mark Deans, Ford of Europe's new Motorsport Director.

For sure, Ford will let me forget about Acura Integra alternator. It means more racing action…as always!

credit: Yahoo Eurosport

Ford Goes High-Tech

2007-12-16T17:01:00.000-08:00

Ford is going to start the new year with a lot of high teach features for cars on display at the upcoming 2008 International CES, the largest tradeshow for consumer technology.

According to Derrick Kuzak, Ford's group vice president of Global Product Development had this to say: "Our goal is to deliver the smart, connected in-car experience that customers today demand. Ford is answering the call with the best technology solutions from companies like Microsoft and SIRIUS, connecting customers with mobile devices, important information they need on the road and bringing the experience to life with the latest in navigation technology and branded audio."

The technologies which the automaker will showcase at the forthcoming event will soon be available on Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles. This just goes to show that the automaker is dedicated to attracting consumers back to their dealerships.

Kuzak added: "In-car electronics, especially as it relates to information services and entertainment, continues to rapidly change. To keep up with the pace of the consumer electronics industry, we need to work closely with the most capable companies in the business. These technology companies are helping change home entertainment and the movie theater experience, as well as leading innovations in portable electronics and desktop computing. Ford, working with these partners, is beginning to bring these great experiences to the automotive environment, delivering what customers say they want."

With the automaker bent on creating a wider buyer base for its vehicles and wholesale auto parts, it can be expected that it will be unveiling cutting edge in-car technologies. The automaker has partnered with large companies with a lot of expertise in their particular field to create more car features geared towards appeasing consumers. The list of the companies that Ford is working with includes Dolby, Gracenote, Microsoft, SIRIUS, Sony Electronics and THX."

Ford Expects A Sale Soon…

2007-12-15T04:30:00.000-08:00

FoMoCo is poised to name India's Tata Motors as preferred bidder for its Jaguar and Land Rover brands, Britain's Sunday Times newspaper reported. An announcement could come in the next fortnight, with Tata expected to pay about 1 billion pounds ($2 billion), it added.

Ford, which is spinning off the British companies to concentrate on restructuring its loss-making North American operations, said last week it aimed to complete the sale in early 2008. Tata is competing in the auction for the luxury brands with rival Indian group Mahindra & Mahindra and private equity firm One Equity Partners, according to Reuters.

The Detroit-based automaker needs to be efficient as a performance chip to alleviate its standing in the auto realm. The company expects to complete the sale of its Jaguar and Land Rover nameplates by early next year at the latest, company executives said.

Ford spokesman Mark Truby said Friday that the automaker cannot rule out the possibility of a deal for a buyer for the brands before the end of the year. However, Ford's President of the Americas Mark Fields said it was possible the company might not be ready to announce a deal until the early part of next year. "Basically we want to make sure the buyer can uphold the tradition of these brands," Fields added.

The guessing in Detroit is that Tata Motors, the auto branch of the diversified Indian manufacturer, and Chase & Company's One Equity Partners are the leading contenders for ford's Jaguar and Land Rover brands.

The senior adviser at One Equity Partners is former Ford CEO Jacques Nasser, who spent 3.3 billion dollars to acquire Land Rover from BMW. Ford acquired Jaguar from the British government in 1990.

Joseph Barker, an analyst with CSM Worldwide Inc., said Ford could wind up selling the brands to private-equity investors. "Private equity could play a big role," he said. "However, they might sell the brands to a company like Tata for strategic reasons. Any deal with Tata is likely to include a strategic alliance between Ford and the Indian automaker. Tata also has a lot of money.”

A report said Tata was to bid in the range of 1.5-2.2 billion dollars. Analysts had earlier pegged the value of the two brands at around 1.5 billion dollars.

Unions representing workers at Jaguar and Land Rover in Britain have endorsed an alliance with Tata, said AFP. Fields, however, turned aside reporters' questions about which bidder was favored. A deal with Tata could give Ford important access to the promising Indian auto market, Barker noted.

Access to emerging markets sparked Renault-Nissan's successful bid earlier this month for a 25% stake in the struggling Russian automaker AutoVaz. Vehicle sales in Russia are expected to double by 2015, the report continued.

President of the Center for Automotive Research David Cole said that larger automakers need alliances both to bolster their positions in emerging markets and to spread the costs of developing new vehicles.

Ford’s Innovative In-Car Technologies To Be Presented At The 2008 International CES!

2007-12-14T17:20:00.000-08:00

The planet’s biggest and renowned consumer technology tradeshow is on its way and it’s all set to amaze technology geeks from around the globe. And Ford will play a big role in the 2008 international CES by presenting its innovative in-car connectivity technology!

According to Ford’s press release, the latest technology developed in cooperation with Microsoft got the desirable “People’s Voice” award following the extremely triumphant introduction of Ford SYNC at the 2007 International CES a few months ago. Next year, Ford will resurface at the annual assembly in Las Vegas on Jan. 6. The company intends to introduce significant affiliations and additional improvements in consumer-oriented, in-vehicle electronics.

“Our goal is to deliver the smart, connected in-car experience that customers today demand. Ford is answering the call with the best technology solutions from companies like Microsoft and SIRIUS, connecting customers with mobile devices, important information they need on the road and bringing the experience to life with the latest in navigation technology and branded audio,” says Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president of Global Product Development.

Intercontinental CES guests will have the chance to witness several first-class vehicles with cool window motors and technologies from Ford Motor Company which have been enhanced in cooperation with major suppliers which include Gracenote, Dolby, Microsoft, Sony Electronics, SIRIUS and THX.

“In-car electronics, especially as it relates to information services and entertainment, continues to rapidly change. To keep up with the pace of the consumer electronics industry, we need to work closely with the most capable companies in the business. These technology companies are helping change home entertainment and the movie theater experience, as well as leading innovations in portable electronics and desktop computing. Ford, working with these partners, is beginning to bring these great experiences to the automotive environment, delivering what customers say they want,” added Kuzak.

Land Rover And Jaguar For Sale In 2008

2007-12-11T17:09:00.000-08:00

Some are maybe tired of the news as months ago, the Ford Motor Company said they have decided to sell two Premiere Automotive group members at the end of October but it seems like Ford is expecting much from their bidders. Early this morning, I read news saying that Ford is going to sell the two PAG members early this 2008.

Mark Fields, Ford's president for the Americas, told reporters at a presentation at a Ford training facility that, "First and foremost in our minds is to make sure that we sell to a buyer that looks to grow (the brands). We're still going through the process."

According to Fields, the company would likely be closing the deal weeks before the end of the year. "It's most likely going to be in the first quarter," he said. These Ford brands would definitely wear the same quality parts like the Acura CL fuel tank.

India's Tata Motors (TAMO.BO), Mahindra & Mahindra (MAHM.BO) and private equity firm One Equity Partners were the known bidders of both Jaguar and Land Rover.

Merrill Lynch was able to give an estimate on both brands which amounts to a huge $1.5 billion on a combined basis. While an Indian newspaper reports that both brands have a final bid that ranges from $1.5 billion to $2.2 billion.

According to more sources, the current number two biggest automaker around the world is ready to do more production cutting in order to keep the operation of their car company going.

According to the Detroit based car maker, the truck demands will most likely land below 15.5 million units on an annualized basis over the next six months. "That's cause for concern, of course," Fields said.

He added: "If we need to make changes and things go outside our plan, we will make changes."

2007 Shelby Mustang GT500: ‘I Am Legend’ Star

2007-12-07T23:34:00.000-08:00

The most loved pony car in the world, the Mustang, is a certified Hollywood icon! It starred in hundreds of international film; and most of them are blockbuster hits. Today, the Ford Mustang will have its comeback on the silverscreens starting December 14, 2007 - the world premiere of the much awaited sci-fi flick from Warner Brothers, ‘I Am Legend’.

You’ll definitely be astonished by the story, Will Smith’s classic antics and of course, the 2007 Shelby Mustang GT500 sporting a red exterior paintjob with its signature white stripes! The movie will feature the Mustang as the significant vehicle for the Fresh Prince that will cruise on the streets of New York City! It is rest assured that this blockbuster film is going to be hot as a Hyundai radiator!

"There is no doubt that the Shelby Mustang GT500 is the costar of the first part of this story. Smith plays the sole survivor of an apocalypse who races around the deserted, gray, empty streets in this fantastic bright red Mustang. The sequences are incredible,” says Brian Daly of Ford Global Brand Entertainment (FGBE).

I Am Legend is already the talk of Hollywood buzz and it generated an exceptional statement on a Los Angeles Times auto blog.

"The shots of the Mustang blasting around totally traffic-free New York will be the envy of every urban driver. I lost myself in that dream just with the sound of that car growling through the city streets,” says automotive reporter Josh Hancock.

"The producers knew they wanted an American-made vehicle and the Shelby Mustang was perfect casting. But I also knew Chrysler and GM were making pitches. I kept imagining the folks at Camaro piecing together all kinds of prototypes to get those scenes,” added Daly.

And guess what? According to the Auto Spectator, it's not just a Ford Mustang that digs up face time. Will Smith will also share scenes with a Ford Expedition and a Ford Escape Hybrid.

"Getting Ford brand vehicles in movies like I Am Legend works in two ways; First, producers know that as the audience recognizes a vehicle they see in real life or have been thinking about, the story becomes more relatable. And second, when our products are on-screen they can engage the viewer in a totally different fashion and help enhance our commercial and marketing investments,” says Bob Witter, the manager of FGBE.

"They wanted the car to match his hair," said Witter. "We delivered a gray Jaguar, but it wasn't the right shade."

"It's an amazing trick. Once the plastic is peeled off, you can never tell the car was touched. Eventually those cars are sold at auction. Someone could be out there driving Richard Gere's costar right now and never even know it," added Witter.

Southern California Edison Acquired Their First Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrids

2007-12-06T00:56:00.000-08:00

The newest Ford Escape plug-in hybrid acquisition was done by the Southern California Edison. The Ford Motor Company was obliged to deliver their first demonstration Escape Plug-In hybrids to Southern California. The first of 20 research PHEVs vehicles are ready for road testing and observation of its steering rack functions and all other aspects.

“The electrification of vehicles has sparked significant interest in this country. The delivery of this Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid research vehicle today represents another step in our development and understanding of the technology and its place in the overall energy picture. PHEVs are one element of our blueprint for sustainability that includes actions ranging from refinements in gasoline fueled engines and transmissions, to the development of hydrogen fuel cells,” says Sue Cischke, the senior vice president of Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering.

“We are united in a common cause. We bring our expertise in energy production, delivery and management, and combine it with Ford’s expertise in hybrid technology. Together, we are seeking solutions to address the needs of our shared customers and to ultimately help this nation achieve energy independence and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This is not about simply connecting the car to the grid. It’s about integrating vehicles and energy storage technologies into the energy system of the future,” says Lynda Ziegler, Southern California Edison’s senior vice president for Customer Service.

“Although the energy infrastructure is in place, significant challenges remain for widespread adoption of PHEVs,” said Cischke. “Cost, durability and reliability issues all need to be addressed before these vehicles can make a significant impact on the global issues of climate change and energy security.”

Malcolm Tells Marcus: Door Is Always Open

2007-12-04T17:00:00.000-08:00

Will you be missing Marcus Gronholm? For me, the answer will be on the affirmative. The boob tube will miss him too.

But let’s hear it from BP Ford team director, Malcolm Wilson. How does he feel about the retirement of his number one driver?

Marcus will be greatly missed, said Malcolm, adding that he if he ever wants to come back to the WRC in the future he only has to ask. This season, Marcus put in an awesome performance, winning 5 events in total. It is also worth stressing that he only missed out on the drivers' title by 4 points.

Combining his and Mikko Hirvonen’s rallying skills Ford took its second consecutive manufacturers' title. What’s more, Blue Oval’s 212 points score was the highest in Ford's WRC history.

The Blue Oval has declared itself delighted with the outcome of the 2007 World Rally Championship, despite seeing Marcus beaten to the world title in a final round showdown.

"Mikko and Marcus could not have done any better," said Malcolm. "We've won every gravel event since May and to end the year with a one-two finish is a perfect result. Mikko drove a great rally but sadly Marcus didn't win the drivers' championship on his final event. It was a great season for the sport with a thrilling battle for the drivers' title that went down to the final round."

"Obviously, we are really happy with the result. First and second [on Rally GB] – we couldn't have done any better. But sadly it wasn't enough to give Marcus the title we wanted to give him in his final year, so it's great to win in GB again but it is disappointing that Marcus couldn't clinch the Championship," Malcolm told Yahoo Eurosport.

"More importantly he is going to be a big loss to the team. As everyone knows he has been leading the team and has helped us win two Manufacturers' Championships, which was a first since 1979 - so there is no question the records speak for themselves as to how he has actually helped us and made the team and everybody raise their game to where we are,” he continued. “So Marcus, you'll be greatly missed and you know that if you ever want to come back, you only have to knock on my door."

Despite losing Marcus though, Wilson is feeling confident for 2008, when the outfit is strongly tipped to again field two Finns, with Jari-Matti Latvala expected to be promoted to the ‘A' team to work alongside Mikko Hirvonen, according to Crash.net.

"There is a lot of young talent out there and Mikko has won three rallies this year. My brief to him before we started this rally was to finish in the position you plan to be in next season. It's going to be a very interesting fight [in 2008]," Malcolm concluded.

Rally, races, and more are my passion. The Blue Oval, Subaru, the maker of Acura CL driveshaft, McLaren, and other racing teams will surely delight me in the upcoming 2008 season. That’s something to look forward to…

Cars.com’s View About The 2009 Jaguar XF

2007-11-28T18:09:00.000-08:00

Two among Cars.com's commentators says, the new 2009 Jaguar XF is a winner while the other one says it’s a loser. Well, most cars were found a little not too impressive and three among the Cars.com staff were able to identify these cars which are seen at the latest LA Auto Show. David Thomas and Mike Hanley says the new 2009 Jaguar XF is a winner while Joe Wiesenfelder says it’s a loser.

The story was in Kicking Tires when I was looking for Acura air deflectors online. Here's what they've got to say:

Winner:
“In person I thought the XF’s front end looked much more menacing than it did in pictures, and I didn’t even mind the headlights’ strange shape. Inside there are some amazing materials around the pop-up shift lever, but then some cheapos right above them for the A/C controls. Overall, though, this could be a terrific alternative to the 5 Series, with a great engine and transmission that I’ve had plenty of time with in the XKR,” David Thomas says.

Loser:
“You know how we often say a car looks better in person than it does in photos? I can't say that about the Jaguar XF. I'm a huge fan of the XK, and if this is Jaguar's new design direction, I think its navigation system is on the fritz. I'm a proponent of real metal trim in car cabins - over wood and definitely over plastic trying to imitate metal. But somehow the auto show car, which seems to have real metal trim, manages to have too much. The big panel on the passenger's side is overkill. Then there's the grille, which has the same problem as the XK and XKR - it's chromed plastic and it just looks cheap. As many of our visitors have echoed, Jaguar has no idea how much it's hurting itself by cutting costs in this area,” said Joe Wiesenfelder.

Winner:
“I agree with Dave. The XF's round headlight elements look better in person than in the photos I'd seen of the car, which is a good thing because that was one of the few issues I had with the car's styling; otherwise, it's a sleek four-door that should attract buyers in search of a stylish luxury car,” Mike Hanley also commented.

Kenseth Wins Season Finale

2007-11-19T20:04:00.000-08:00

The last race of the 2007 NASCAR Nextel Cup Series is named the Ford 400 and it was only fitting that a Ford driver won it. Although the spotlight was on Jeff Gordon and Jimmie Johnson as they were the only two left vying for the championship which Johnson eventually won, Matt Kenseth driving his Ford showed that he is one of the best drivers in the field as he dominated the race.

It was an emotional victory for Kenseth whose crew chief will be leaving him to move up in the ranks so as to become the general manager of Roush Fenway Racing. "I’m not a real emotional guy," said Kenseth after the win. "I’m going to miss working with him on Sundays," he added. Robbie Reiser, Kenseth's former crew chief, announced earlier this month that he will leave his post for Roush Fenway Racing.

After the race, Reiser said: "I’m not a real emotional guy. I enjoy racing. I love to race. My dad brought me up that way. It’s who I am, I’m a racer." His input on Kenseth's car made the difference for them at the last race of the season. For 214 laps out of the 267 laps, Kenseth was leading. His car was so dominant that at some point he was able to put 10 seconds between him and his closest competitor.

After the dust settled, it was still Jimmie Johnson who won the bigger prize - the championship. Kenseth's win at the Ford 400 though took him from sixth to fourth place in the Chase. This will not be enough for Kenseth though as he is looking for his second championship. Next year, expect him to be back with more dedication to win the Sprint Cup as the premiere NASCAR class will be called next year. Don't be surprised if you see him driving flat out while leading the field next year as if he is racing with a Volvo shock-equipped race car.

Presenting... Ford’s Virtual Ergonomic Technology!

2007-11-16T18:05:00.000-08:00

After the successful launching of the industry-first ground-breaking Ford SYNC™, the Ford Motor Company will once again introduce an industry-first technology that is sure to be a hit in the auto industry just like the SYNC. Ford will showcase its pioneering ergonomic technology on a “virtual” 2008 Ford Focus along with some clarifications and explanations on how the ergonomic technology was shifted to the newly launched all-new 2008 Focus.

According to my source, Ford.com, the company is the first ever North American auto manufacturer to combine sophisticated motion capture equipment with human modeling software to devise work that are less physically nerve-racking on employees. The Virtual Ergonomic Technology is totally ground-pounding that even a Rancho lift kit won’t stand its appeal!

The technology will be on display today at the Siemens PLM Software 2007 Digital Manufacturing Symposium in Dearborn. This is certainly one of the most anticipated events in the world of digital manufacturing.

“The benefits are fewer injuries, lower cost of tooling changes, higher quality and faster time to market. We’re seeing improvement in every one of those metrics, and I know that our virtual technology is a factor,” says Allison Stephens, the Ford ergonomics technical specialist with Vehicle Operations Manufacturing Engineering.

“Among the project objectives are to predict the ergonomic impact of long-term repetitive motions and to better predicts complex human motions” said Stephens. “The impact on quality is tremendous - as recent results are showing. This is helping us strengthen our leadership position in virtual manufacturing for assembly ergonomics and resulting in higher quality vehicles.”

Ford E150 Gets The Full-Size Van Award

2007-11-14T16:45:00.000-08:00

Ford was able to win the Full-Size Van category in IntelliChoice.com's Best Deals For November 2007. According to James Bell of IntelliChoice.com, "Another big factor consumers need to pay attention to are ever-changing car rebates. Changing rebates is what bumped October's winners out of holding on to their titles for November. In the Full-Size Van category, the Ford E150 beat out the Chevy Express because the E150 offered a $2,500 rebate."

Aside from the Ford 150, the Ford Escape Hybrid won the Compact Utility/Crossover category. These are the only two categories won by the Detroit car maker.

Bell also said on a statement, "What consumers need to know is that the best deals can change quickly from month to month. There are seven changes on our list of winners from October to November, which is a big number. Gas is a big factor. Rising fuel costs favor fuel efficient vehicles, including hybrids, and there are six on the November list. Among non-hybrid vehicles, the Yukon knocked out the Sequoia. The Yukon beats the Sequoia on the MPG front, so as fuel costs rise, the opportunity arises to overcome the Sequoia's strong retained value advantage."

Just like Ford, Volkswagen, the maker of VW diesel racing parts, also won one category. The Volkswagen GTI 2-door got the Base Sport Car.

Other winners were:

Subcompact Car: MINI Cooper Hatchback
Compact Car over $16,000: Honda Civic Hybrid
Compact Car under $16,000: Honda Civic Sedan
Midsize Car over $21,000: Toyota Prius
Intermediate Utility: Hummer H3
Full-Size Utility: GMC Yukon
Luxury Utility: Lexus GX
Compact Pickup Truck 2WD: Toyota Tacoma Regular Cab 2WD
Compact Pickup 4WD: Toyota Tacoma Regular Cab 4WD
Full-Size Pickup Truck 2WD 1/2 Ton: Toyota Tundra Regular Cab 2WD
Minivan: Honda Odyssey Passenger Van
Full-Size Van: Ford E150 Passenger Van
Cargo Van: Chevrolet Uplander Cargo Van

If you want to know the complete details of the Best Deals For November 2007 check out TMC.net.

Ford's Tech Director Won Design Award

2007-11-13T17:55:00.000-08:00

Let us look into Ford's involvement in the sport for this post. The Dearborn automaker supplies cars for teams in the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series; it also has its teams in the Busch Series. Apart from that, Ford also backs a team in the World Rally Championship. And at this point, the automaker's team is in front of all teams and their ace driver, Marcus Gronholm, is also on top of the drivers' standings.

The success of the team and the driver is made possible by the people working for the team. And one of them recently received a prestigious award which only shows that Ford hires the best to become the best.

Christian Loriaux, the technical director of the BP-Ford World Rally Team, was recently named the Design Engineer of the Year at the Professional Motorsport World Expo Awards in Cologne, Germany. The Belgian was selected as the best in his craft by a panel of motorsports experts.

Loriaux' rise to prominence last year with his work on the Focus RS WRC 06 took the sport by storm. With the car, Ford was able to snatch the championship last year. It is also the same car used in the opening rounds of the 2007 season which is a reason why Ford has gained an early lead over its closest rivals. The design of the car and the use of reliable parts as durable as the Volkswagen mass air flow sensor has allowed them to become the team to beat in the WRC.

Loriaux had this to say: "It was a great honor to be recognised with this award by experts from within the motorsport industry. But none of our achievements with the Ford Focus RS WRC would have been possible without the expertise, enthusiasm and hard work of the entire design and engineering team at M-Sport. Together with the support of engineers at Ford Team RS, we developed a world championship winning car in a very short space of time and followed that with an evolution version that has continued our run of rally-winning success."

"Developing a World Rally Car really is a team effort and my thanks go to everyone who contributed to that. But a measure of a rally car's success is how it performs in competition and with just two rounds remaining; our target is to retain Ford's manufacturers' title in the WRC with the Focus RS," he concluded.

Race To The Dream

2007-11-08T17:22:00.000-08:00

It is neither Matt Kenseth nor Carl Edwards. So who will be racing a NASCAR Ford Fusion? Wild guess, anyone?

The lucky person will be someone from your home area who will take to the track this weekend in a once-in-a-lifetime chance to compete to become Ford’s “Ultimate Fan Champion.” Yes, it is the latest lure of the automaker to Ford racing aficionados.

The highlights of the event include:

* Nine finalists from Ford’s “Race to the Dream” promotion to compete on Miami race track for a VIP dream weekend at Nov. 16-18 Ford Championship Weekend NASCAR finale.
* Finalists to race each other in Ford Fusion race cars and in F-Series trucks at the same track that will crown three NASCAR champions a week later.
* Unique promotion combines truck customers’ passion for F-Series pickups and NASCAR racing.

This week, the Dearborn-based automaker will give 9 race fans countrywide, including the Florida Panhandle, the Southwest desert, the land of 10,000 lakes, Toledo and more, the rare chance to experience the euphoria of being a NASCAR race-car driver first-hand after the lucky finalists were selected from the 2-month “Built Ford Tough Race to the Dream Ultimate Fan Experience” promotion.

Auto Spectator reported:

This marks the fourth year of the “Race to the Dream” promotion, sponsored by Ford Trucks, which launched Aug. 25 with one finalist selected every week through Oct. 30. The finalists will meet at the Homestead-Miami Speedway Nov. 10-11 to compete on the oval in race-prepared Ford Fusions, and in Ford trucks through off-roading, towing and drag racing competitions. The following weekend, Nov. 16-18, the track will host Ford Championship Weekend where the NASCAR Nextel Cup, Busch and Craftsman Truck champions will be crowned.

“The Built Ford Tough Race to the Dream Ultimate Fan Experience has been a major success in its first three years and we expect more of the same in 2007,” said Todd Eckert, Ford Truck and SUV marketing communications manager. “We’ve connected with thousands of consumers and provided them with an opportunity to learn more about the best-selling and most capable lineup of trucks in America – Ford F-Series – while giving them a chance to win a racing experience only Built Ford Tough Trucks and Ford Racing could provide.”

“Competing in NASCAR Fusions on the track and in Ford F-150s and Super Duties in the dirt at the same place where NASCAR will crown its champions one week later, is something our nine contestants will never forget. We know that NASCAR fans are also truck enthusiasts, so it’s a great opportunity for us to combine two of their favorite passions into a truly unique experience,” he added.

The winner of the driving competition will be crowned the “Ultimate Fan Champion” and will remain in Miami with their guest for Ford Championship Weekend NASCAR finales.

Activities include:

* All areas access to all three Ford Championship Weekend NASCAR races
* Being an honorary member of the No. 21 Wood Brothers crew for driver Bill Elliott during the Ford 400 NASCAR Nextel Cup Series race on Nov. 18
* Being honorary starter for the Ford 300 NASCAR Busch Series race on Nov. 17
* Riding in the pace truck at the Nov. 16 Ford 200 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race
* “Meet and greets” with Ford NASCAR drivers and personalities throughout the weekend
* A live national television interview capturing the excitement of the Race to the Dream experience

“Race to the Dream has been a major success for us because not only has it allowed us to communicate on a more personal level with our loyal Ford fans, it also exposes others to the impressive new products we have to offer,” said Tim Duerr, NASCAR marketing manager, Ford Racing Technology. “We like to say there’s a little bit of racing in everything we do and nothing is a better example of that than Race to the Dream. We feel like this is a home run for us from a marketing standpoint, and it obviously has been a hit with the fans.

“We know that racing is important to our customers and it’s important to Ford Motor Company,” said Duerr. “Ford Championship Weekend is one of the biggest sporting events of the year and we’re excited to have such a major presence.”

For a little while, forget about Subaru struts and witness the racing bliss offered by Ford.

Ford Customization

2007-11-06T18:23:00.000-08:00

When you buy a vehicle and you want to "soup it up", one of the most common thing to do is buy aftermarket parts and strapping them on your ride. But doing so will void your warranty especially if it involves parts which affect the performance of the engine or the transmission. But Dearborn automaker Ford has come up with a way so that consumers can customize their vehicles without voiding the warranty.

Showcased at the Specialty Equipment Market Association Show in Las Vegas was the all-new interactive kiosk for vehicles customization designed by Ford. The automaker allows consumers to check out how their cars will look if they are fitted with chrome wheels of different size and designs. Electronic and appearance enhancements can also be made on Ford, Mercury or Lincoln vehicles using the technology.

"There's no better place to customize a vehicle than at the dealership at the time of purchase," said Kim Irwin, Ford Customer Service Division manager of Vehicle Personalization and Accessories according to the automaker's newsletter. "It's convenient for customers, great for dealerships, and now it will be easier than ever before. This will allow Ford and Lincoln-Mercury dealers to conquest customers who, in the past, went elsewhere for customization."

Kirk Stump, owner of Dale Jarrett Ford in Indian Trail, N.C. had this to say: "It's all about personalization these days. In years past customization was an afterthought or limited to the 'fast and furious' urban consumer, but now we have suburban moms coming in, asking to see custom wheels on their Expeditions. That never happened 18 months ago."

Today, it is no longer about installing Acura oxygen sensor on your vehicle but installation of other aftermarket performance-enhancing parts as well.

Matt Kenseth Talks About His 2nd Place Finish At Texas

2007-11-06T16:53:00.000-08:00

In the world of car racing, the name Ford has marked several highlights that place them among the top teams in the planet! The continuing campaign of Ford Racing has remained consistent for the past years. They are consistently blazing as hot as a BMW 328i radiator!

Two days ago, another highlight was set by one of Ford Racing’s best drivers! Matt Kenseth finished 2nd place at the recent event held in Texas. Kenseth gave his insights about his victorious day. Here are some bits from the press conference published in Ford.com:

MATT KENSETH – No. 17 USG Ford Fusion (finished 2nd) – “I’m happy and I’m disappointed. Whenever you’re leading with three to go, you’re always disappointed when you don’t win. That’s been a couple of races here in a row that’s happened to us, got passed on the last lap. So, I was disappointed in that, but overall, if I look back at the day, it was a great day for us. I don’t think we necessarily had a second-place car most of the day. It was good Friday when we unloaded, and tonight when it got dark it was pretty good again. But during the day we weren’t really any good at all. So that was probably a little bit of an advantage at the end. We probably had top-three or -four car, and took two tires at the end and this week they got four and beat us with it, last week they got two and beat us with it. So, it’s hard to figure out, but they made the right call and had the best car at the end and got through there.”

CAN YOU TALK ABOUT THE SAME THING HAPPENING TO YOU IN BOTH RACES AT THIS TRACK THIS YEAR?

“There’s a couple of things. It is disappointing. When you’re leading with two or three to go and you get passed, it is disappointing. We’ve had three top-fives in a row now, and I’m happy about that. We seem to be getting back to where I want again, and I’m also firm believer that if you get get yourself in position to win enough, you’re going to win races. It’s easy to say after you’ve just lost one, but you hate losing any of them, but there’s also times I think you go through that, you get yourself in position to win and maybe the other guy has a little trouble or whatever happens and hopefully you’ll win a couple that maybe you shouldn’t have, and it all kind of balances out.”

How To Escape From A Sinking Car

2007-11-03T22:59:00.000-07:00

We all have to admit that life can be a little too rough to us sometimes especially for those who drive daily. Who would know if you are driving towards a body of water or if your car tumbles from a bridge? No one right? But just in case you find yourself sinking with your car, what do you do?

This is not the right time to think about saving your possessions or your car parts like the VW rear disc brake. Think about saving your life first. You have to roll the window down before it hits the water. This will allow the water to come inside the car so it will be easier for you to escape.

If you are having a hard time opening your car window and you find your car sinking, break the window. Do a strong kick or break the car window with a heavy object. Make sure to shield your eyes so the broken glass won’t enter. You skin must also be protected.

Now, get out of the car by releasing your seatbelt. Use a knife if your seatbelt is jammed. The broken glass can also be used to cut the seatbelt just in case it won't release. If your children are inside the car, push them ahead of you.

For you to easily get out of the car, wait until the car is filled with water. This is the best time to use your swimming skills. Take a deep breath as possible, hold it and use enough strength to get out of the car.

Ford Helps In Wildfire Relief And Recovery

2007-10-25T17:54:00.000-07:00

The Ford Motor Company is aiming to aid the Southern California which experienced a wildfire and is now under recovery by means of donating cash, cars and manpower volunteers. Not only that, the Detroit based company will also delay the payment of some customers impacted by the wildfires.

Ford immediately donated 20 vehicles from its brand and some of them were 11 Ford F-250 and F-350 Super Duty trucks and nine Ford Expedition sport utility vehicles. This is going to be a tool to fight fires and they were given to the rescue departments on most areas that were affected by these wildfires.

"Many Southern California Ford employees and Ford and Lincoln Mercury dealers share the concerns of their neighbors as they also have been affected by this devastating fire. Local fire and rescue officials told us they have an urgent need for heavy duty work trucks and SUVs. We located the 20 specially equipped vehicles at local dealerships and they are on their way to local fire and rescue squads,” Ford Lincoln Mercury Los Angeles regional manager Hal Dewsnap said.

The domestic automaker is also giving out $100,000 to the San Diego Chapter of the American Red Cross to help with relief efforts.

"The San Diego Chapter Red Cross has a critical need for medical, food, water and other supplies, as well as counseling support for hundreds of residents forced from their homes," said Jim Vella, the president of Ford Motor Company Fund. "We are responding to this need immediately."

Customers have the chance to call the toll free numbers posted at the bottom of this post. Customers also have the chance to register for the Ford Motor Credit Disaster Relief Program:
-- Ford Credit: 1-800-723-4016
-- Jaguar Credit: 1-800-945-7000
-- Land Rover Capital Group: 1-877-507-2264
-- Mazda American Credit: 1-800-945-4000
-- PRIMUS Financial Services: 1-800-945-4000
-- Volvo Car Finance: 1-800-770-8234

Pickup Truck On Steroids

2007-10-24T19:45:00.000-07:00

That's how I can describe Ford's F-Series Super Duty, but of course, without the negative effect of using steroids. Just looking at the truck makes one feel diminutive and feel respect for the hulking pickup. The F-Series Super Duty is considered as the baddest of all pickup trucks today. And within months of its launch, Ford has added new features to the truck.

On the outside, the automaker's newsletter highlights the exterior design of the F-Series Super Duty and why they came to be that way.

The grille sits on a horizontal cut line that defines the top of the bumper and also serves as a base for the stacked headlamps, delivering a clean, more refined look.
The step pad on the front bumper is specifically textured and designed for the customers who use the bumper while servicing the truck.
Air vents, mounted on the fender just behind the crisply defined wheel arch, dissipate engine compartment heat and designate the type of powertrain beneath the hood - red for diesel, black for gasoline.
The distinctive dropped beltline, a Ford truck design cue, improves visibility.
The revised tailgate, with a standard Lift-Assist System, is flanked by redesigned taillamps.
Five all-new wheel designs including standard 18-inch premium chromed steel wheels on Lariat and 20-inch polished forged aluminum wheels join a list of 10 wheel options across the lineup.

Ford's truck has always been known to have been Built Tough just like reliable Jaguar struts. Not only is the exterior of the F-Series Super Duty was enhanced by the automaker but also it's interior. In what the company calls "tough luxury", here are the interior features of the F-Series Super Duty worth highlighting:

The modern design features all-new materials and includes luxury touches like contrast stitching on the seats and rich, Chaparral leather on the King Ranch.
The prominent center stack houses most of the vehicle's switches, integrating all functions into one easy-to-reach central area.
Rings surrounding the gauges and air vents are notched, more angular and defined. Gauges also are better organized and easier to read.
A large center console is designed to hold file folders and keep laptop computers out of sight

Aside from having those exterior and interior amenities, consumers can also avail of different packages offered by the automaker which are the following: 4x4 Off Road Package; Advanced Security Group; Camper Package; Chrome Package; Driver's Memory Package; Heavy Service Suspension Package; King Ranch Package; King Ranch with Chrome Package; Power Equipment Group Rear Seat DVD Entertainment System; Snow Plow Prep Package; Stabilizer Package; TowCommand System; XL Décor Group; and the SLT Sport Package.

SUV Of the Year: Mazda CX-9

2007-10-15T18:29:00.000-07:00

Mazda, a Japanese automaker in which Ford owns a substantial share, is known for its Wankel engines and great reliability. Recently, an SUV made by Mazda was recognized by the publication Motor Trend. The Mazda CX-9 was recently named as the SUV of the Year by the mentioned publication.

The CX-9 topped ten other nameplates for the distinction of being the best sport utility vehicle of the 2008 model year. This is definitely a good sign for Ford and Mazda as the former is continuing its battles with lowering demand for its vehicles in the United States auto market. Ford's newsletter said that the SUV category has always been reserved "for a few off-road specialists" but today, automakers have been coming out with their own SUV contrary to the belief that the segment is dying. Motor Trend's editor Angus MacKenzie noted that while the selection for this year's award is smaller in number, they saw new entries.

"We wondered if it would be possible for Mazda to inject its sports car DNA into their first-ever three-row crossover-a crossover that happened to be one of the largest in the lineup," said MacKenzie. "After three days of testing, that question was answered in full. It was arguably the most enjoyable sport/utility to drive, and a great reminder that SUVs can be as exciting as any car," he added.

Aside from having reliable components as durable as Mazda MX3 radiators, the CX-9 now has the crown of being the SUV to beat. To come with the recipient of the award, Motor Trend conducted off-road testing as well as street and track driving. These tests shows what the SUVs in contention can do in different road conditions. And it appeared that the CX-9 has the best overall driving performance on all road conditions.

Other attributes such as safety, driving performance, features, ride comfort, stability and others are also considered by Motor Trend. In the end, the CX-9 reigned supreme. According to the same newsletter, the contenders were considered using three criteria which are: "superiority (engineering, design, and utilization of resources); significance (its impact on the market), and value (what buyers get for their money versus the competition)."

MacKenzie said that crossover vehicles are here to stay and that means the CX-9 has a bright future ahead of it. "Make no mistake, the sport utility or crossover is enmeshed in the American psyche," he said. "Despite concerns over the economy and rising gas prices, more than two million SUVs rolled off dealer lots in the first six months of 2007 alone. The Mazda CX-9 spins the traditional 'ute' in a new direction. It's a sleek, elegant, sophisticated vehicle that is comfortable going to midtown, the market or the mountains."

Teen Safety Week

2007-10-11T18:46:00.000-07:00

The Congress has declared that the week of October 15 be hailed as the Teen Driver Safety Week. This will focus on the different vulnerable groups of drivers who are considered to be high risk on the streets.

These are the top six driving tips for the teens I found on theautochannel.com.

Statistics show that the top six driving risk factors for teens are:

Failing to wear a seat belt - each year, 75 percent of teens killed in vehicles are not buckled up. Properly wearing a seat belt reduces the risk of fatal injury by approximately 50 percent.
Distraction - text messaging, cell phones, eating, grooming and talking with other passengers increases the risk of being involved in a crash.
Excessive speed - illegal/unsafe speed is the most common contributing factor in single vehicle crashes for drivers. Teens particularly have difficulty adjusting speed to driving conditions.
Fatigue - a person who has been awake for 24 hours experiences impairment nearly equal to a blood alcohol concentration of 0.10 percent. Teens often don’t get enough sleep.
Driving at night - mile for mile, 16- and 17-year-olds are about three times more likely to be involved in a fatal car crash at night than during the day.
Driving with other teens - the presence of teen passengers dramatically increases the risk of crashing.

Teens are still considered high risk and they make poor choices when driving and then they often experience a tragic outcome on the road. They don’t usually buckle up and one among the reasons why they get hurt during an accident is this. We have to keep them aware of the safety measures during a drive. You, as a parent, must also be responsible for your kids in order for them to be safe even while parking. The list of tips was given to Minnesota’s youngest drivers to reduce risk of road teen accidents.

Sportier Fusion For 2008

2007-10-04T18:18:00.000-07:00

FoMoCo's lineup has always been solid. The automaker knows how to deliver the goods that the consumer wants. If you want a car for your family with all the features that will keep every family member happy, they have them. If you are looking for a workhorse for your farm out in the country, then the F-Series is there for you. And if you want a sporty ride, why not try Ford's Fusion?

According to the automaker's newsletter, the new Fusion for the 2008 model year is made even sportier than its predecessor. The reason for this change in the sportiness of the Fusion is the new Sports Appearance Package which will be offered with the car for the 2008 model year. The said package will make a Fusion look sporty both inside and out. It will be available for the SE and SEL variants of the Fusion.

Outside, refinements brought to the Fusion by the package include 18-inch machined aluminum wheels. This marks the first time that this kind of wheel is offered with the Fusion. The package also includes body color fog lamp surrounds and a unique rear lip spoiler.

On the inside, the new Fusion with the Sport Appearance Package will have "charcoal black interior trim with contrasting red stitching that is included on the leather-wrapped steering wheel and the center console," according to the automaker. These refinements make the new Fusion as appealing as luxury vehicle like those manufactured by Acura and equipped with reliable clutches and other auto parts."

We did this to give our Fusion customers the chance to really dress up the exterior and interior of their cars," said Jonathan Richards, Ford Fusion marketing manager. "Fusion customers are into appearance, and they want a sporty-looking package to go with Fusion's already great handling. This Sport Appearance Package helps deliver that both inside and out." Aside from the new package, the 2008 Ford Fusion will also be offered with these features:

Ford SYNC, a Bluetooth-enabled, voice-activated system that allows hands-free phone calling and digital media playing.
a voice-activated, DVD-based Navigation System and Sirius satellite radio.
the Ambient Lighting Package which adds the glow of seven selectable hues to the front and rear footwells and the front cupholders.
a Moon and Tune package that puts a power moonroof overhead and a premium eight-speaker Audiophile Sound System all around.

Richards sung the Fusion's praises saying: "Our dealers are saying this is the one they're putting on the showroom floor. This is the one that ultimately delivers on everything that Fusion is." Still not sold? Visit your nearest Ford dealership and see for yourself what the new Fusion is really all about.

Ford’s Fantastic Five Signature Technology

2007-10-02T19:36:00.000-07:00

Are you tired of the usual things you see everyday in your car? No funky gizmos to somehow make your day exciting and convenient? I think it’s about time to shift to the brighter side of car technology… Have a big bite from Ford’s five signature technologies! This stuff separates the good cars from the great ones - and Ford sits at the side of the greats. By bringing in the best ground-breaking features today, Ford vehicles has climbed up to the top and established a reputation as one of the brilliant quality car manufacturers in the industry as brilliant as Mercedes bumpers!

According to the news I found from at http://www.ford.com/, Ford’s five signature techs include the Easyfuel capless fuel, next is SYNC, Securicode keyless entry pad, the Sony/THX audio systems and the Adjustable Ambient Lighting.

"In one market research study we did, 85 percent of customers said they'd pay (U.S.) $100 for a solution. We’re going to give it to them for free,” says Joe Pierucci, the manager of Advanced Product Strategy.

"Today's customers are looking for solutions to life's everyday challenges when they purchase a vehicle, and they are looking to brands that stand for something. Standing for something means you give the customer real solutions that no one else does. And you do it consistently across your showroom," says Jack Palazzolo, the manager for Cross Vehicle Product and Features Marketing.

Every Ford Signature Technologies feature is certainly available at some point either as standard or optional features, although it will be available across the whole range of Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles by the 2010 model year.

"Winning in a crowded marketplace means bringing a unique and relevant proposition to the customer before the competition does. So, Ford Signature Technologies are a core element of our Way Forward revitalization plan to be the No. 1 choice of our target customers," says Palazzolo.

Previously, Palazzolo said that it was easy to prioritize technology projects and he also added, "We know what's best." But now the emphasis is on what the customer wants. Case in point: hands-free media device integration. It immediately became the most visible member of the Signature Technologies family when SYNC was unveiled last month. By effortlessly incorporating practical and satisfying conveniences into the driving experience, SYNC appeals to a wide range of audiences - from auto enthusiasts to technophiles to commuters.

Already enjoying widespread media buzz, SYNC will soon be the focal point of a massive Ford Division advertising campaign. "Media buzz and word of mouth are the first wave of any successful marketing effort - it's publicity you can’t buy," says Palazzolo. "That only happens when your product is a home run, and SYNC obviously is." He adds that the company is confident that each of the Signature Technologies will prove to be out-of-the-park hits because they’re solving customers' problems in a big way. Because of the anticipated widespread appeal, the company plans to market many of the Signature Technologies separate from the vehicles, "making the feature the star," says Pierucci.

Ford's Plug-In Hybrid

2007-09-27T18:26:00.000-07:00

Do you still remember the groundbreaking agreement between Ford and Southern California Edison announced earlier this year, in July to be precise? Of course you do. Under the agreement, both companies will be joining hands in the development of a practical plug-in hybrid vehicle. Well, that project is well under way with new updates from the automaker's newsletter. According to the Dearborn auto manufacturer, their plug-in hybrid research team is working with their counterparts at Southern California Edison.

The team-up between the two companies has made the development of the plug-in hybrid vehicle much faster. Ford announced that they are ready to go into the next phase of the development of the vehicle. For that, the R&D team will be joined by joined by Ford's Sustainable Mobility team. Prior to that, the team has already conducted tests on two vehicles, one is a production Ford Escape Hybrid and the other one is a prototype of a plug-in Ford Escape Hybrid. Engineers have been testing the two vehicles and comparing their performance in different areas.

The next phase according to Ford is to "determine the technology development and the usage patterns of customers, as well as explore possibilities for a sustainable business case". These steps are necessary to make commercialization of plug-in hybrid vehicles possible. One of the issue that has to be addressed is if the grid can provide the power needed t charge millions of plug-in hybrids in the future.

"We're looking for a solution that will be broader than just the technology," said Nancy Gioia, Ford's director of Sustainable Mobility Technology. "We understand the technical challenges to plug-ins, but we also need to understand how plug-ins really fit into the electric grid, and how we develop a business model that could actually make this technology accessible and affordable down the road," she added.

Plug-in hybrid vehicles are said to be the future of automobiles. This technology is suited for car owners who do most of their driving on city streets. These vehicles are designed to run on a combination of petroleum fuel and electrical power. The key component to a hybrid vehicle is a battery pack. This is as important to a plug-in hybrid as brake components from EBC Active Brakes Direct are important for maximum stopping power. This battery pack stores electricity which is needed to power the vehicle's electric motor. Ford should be able to develop a battery pack which can store enough power to drive the plug-in hybrid over long distances. For the meantime, we wait for these vehicles to be practical enough to be mass produced.

What You Should NOT Tell Your Car Dealer

2007-09-26T17:30:00.000-07:00

Forbesautos.com has been very informative. We received daily car updates including the latest news on the motoring industry. The website also released tips on car buying, car maintenance and many more. Just recently, The Auto Channel revealed their newest list: top ten things a car buyer should not tell their dealer.

AIADA revealed that Forbes told some of their customers things they should not tell their car dealers. To some consumers, purchasing a car is a hard and extremely stressful experience however it doesn’t have to be that way. If you want something like a sedan car, you should know exactly what to look for and what you should not look for.

Forbes was able to complete the ten things a customer should not tell their car dealers during the purchase of a car. Rob Gentile, the director of car-buying products at Consumer Reports, was quoted by theautochannel.com saying, "The educated consumer is the one who will drive away with the best deal and the best experience.”

The site also posted these tips so the car buyers may have a better knowledge about what to say and what they should not say. In fact, if you say something wrong, it's better to have said "I'll take whatever" or "I think you can do a lot better." These can give the customers huge discounts. Read the top ten things a car buyer should never say to a car dealer:

List of 10 things you should NEVER say to a car dealer:
1. "I'm ready to buy now."
2. "I can afford this much per month."
3. "Yes, I have a trade-in."
4. "I'm only buying the car with cash."
5. "I'm not sure…which model do you think I need?"
6. "Oh, I've wanted one of these all my life."
7. "I'll take whatever the popular options are."
8. "What's the lowest price you can give me?"
9. "Sure, I'll look at the numbers with you."
10. "I think you can do a lot better than that."

“Make Every Day Exciting”

2007-09-20T21:36:00.000-07:00

How can you make your day exciting? I mean aside from bringing the best out of your Subaru transmission mount or driving down a clear highway. What gives you the thrills to make your day complete?

If you don’t have anything in mind, why don’t check out Ford’s “Make Every Day Exciting” (MEDE) brand campaign? I found this great news from the press releases published in Ford.com. Anyway, let’s dig in with this exciting piece of news and speaking of the “Make Every Day Exciting” (MEDE) brand campaign, Ford Thailand has successfully organized the campaign which showcased the top overall customer experience in Thailand’s automotive industry for both service and sales. Ford has been recently highlighted by accomplishing the highest-ever scores in both J.D. Power Asia Pacific’s 2007 Thailand Sales Satisfaction Index (SSI) and the Thailand Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) studies!

“Achieving the top scores from an internationally recognized and respected organization like J.D. Power and Associates really validates our ongoing commitment and passion towards delivering world-class customer service in Thailand. It also confirms that our customer-centric 'Make Every Day Exciting' campaign is being very well-received and appreciated by our Thai customers,” says Tom Brewer, Ford Thailand’s President.

A series of customer-focused programs was applied by Ford in Thailand to guarantee outstanding service standards and stability across Ford’s nationwide network dealers. J.D. Power Asia Pacific’s 2007 SSI study revealed that Ford executed mostly well in five out of six fields being reviewed, including 'delivery process', 'salesperson', 'dealer facility', 'delivery timing' and 'deal'.

“Ford's nationwide network of dealers is united in its vision, values and commitment to deliver the customer experience in Thailand. Thanks to Ford’s support in all areas, we're able to provide our customers with more of the products and services that they really want and need,” says Somsak Paniengthong, the Chairman of the Ford Dealer Council.

From February to May, the J.D. Power Asia Pacific's 2007 Thailand CSI Study was carried out. The evaluations revealed that 3,246 new-vehicle owners had purchased their vehicles between August 2005 and May 2006. Ford performed particularly well in the areas of 'service advisor', 'in-service experience' and 'service delivery'. Ford mostly earned high ratings in the pickup segment as well.

“The SSI study showed that more than 60 percent of customers considered several models, and visited an average of three dealers, before making a decision. We're confident that the Ford showroom and product-test experience is the best in the industry, and when potential customers visit our dealers, they’re impressed with what they see. The Ford Solutions and Ford Active customer relationship programs have also successfully increased our customer retention and satisfaction. Many fun and colorful marketing activities, such as the recent 'Ford Challenge', provide great opportunities for customers to get closer to the Ford brand," Brewer added.

Ford Disappointed with the latest Anti-Speed Campaign

2007-09-17T23:41:00.000-07:00

Who will not be disappointed if an advertisement actually uses your car model as the one losing control and rolling into a ditch? If you have seen the latest Anti-Speed television ad, the car that overspeeds is a late-model Ford Falcon. Ford expressed their disappointment on the freshest advertisement.

Just like a Mazda distributor cap, that piece of news has also been made available online as reported by the Herald last Sunday. Ford wanted the ad stopped and it cost the Land Transport New Zealand (LTNZ) a huge 2 million to have the ad axed. The organization also contacted its lawyer as according to news on yahoo.com.

The advertisement shows a middle-aged man driving a late model Ford Falcon and it crashes because of overspeeding.

According to Clare Ponton, a Ford spokeswoman, the Motor Industry Association and LTNZ had violated the contract set about the cars on ads not to be identified. She told a newspaper about this and she also added, "We do have concerns which we are raising with LTNZ and we are looking at our marketing, legal and PR options.”

She also said, "We take customer safety very seriously... the new XR6 will have dynamic stability control, the new Mondeo has knee bags... that's why we are so concerned about this."

The LTNZ advertising manager Paul Graham is trying to redeem their reputation that the ad would not be pulled out and the organization was on "hugely solid ground" like yahoo.com revealed. The television advertisement was well researched before it was finally produced.

Graham said, "Car ads are all very similar, in showing the driver enjoying the moment, the curving road ahead of them...”

He also said, "We are after an audience that likes a performance car, enjoys the moment of driving, considers themselves a superior sort of driver - it's the area we want to be."

The LTNZ advertising manager expects that the advertisement would be off the airwaves within 18 months.

Dog and Lemon Guide’s editor, Clive Matthew-Wilson, also gave a comment about this news. He said that the ad was inaccurate and misleading. He continued, "Statistically, fatal speeding accidents tend to involve young working class males driving a Japanese import.”

"Middle-aged men driving new Ford Falcons have comparatively few fatal accidents."

Indian Bidders Lose Interest on Land Rover and Jaguar

2007-09-14T18:22:00.000-07:00

For the past months after the Ford Motor Company announced that they were selling Premiere Automotive Group (PAG) members Land Rover and Jaguar, two of the most famous Indian companies expressed their deepest interest towards acquiring the brands. These Indian companies were Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra. But it seems like Mahindra & Mahindra have already given up on the bidding for the two brands.

Economic Times reported last Friday that Mahindra & Mahindra have already given up the bidding for both Land Rover and Jaguar. However, Tata Motors is still interested in purchasing some stakes of the brands.

Mahindra & Mahindra is one among the most influential top tractor and utility vehicle makers of India. When the spokesman was asked about the issue, they failed to make a comment immediately but Tata Motors also declined to comment.

Mahindra & Mahindra lost its interests towards Land Rover and Jaguar because of the issue about the two Premiere Automotive Group members depending on Ford for its powertrain. The Indian car makers are also concerned about the emission norms it would have on their European brands in 2012.

Tata Motors is so lucky to be receiving Fiat support. According to the Italian company, they are willing to give the technical support for the Indian company if they expressed their interest towards Land Rover and Jaguar.

U.S. buyout firms TPG and Ripplewood are also reported to have a huge interest for the two PAG members. A source familiar with this matter reported the news earlier on Reuters. However, Ford is still planning on more details to push through its sales for both Land Rover and Jaguar this coming year or maybe earlier in 2008.

Ford is always proud of their brands because of the parts they install on their cars are made to be quality. Just like the Chevy catalytic converter which is also made with excellence.

2008 Ford Focus: In The Spotlight!

2007-09-13T01:54:00.000-07:00

Thousands of car enthusiasts will definitely swarm the premises of the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show wherein several car manufacturers will show-off their newest models for 2008 as well as their various extraordinary concept cars for the future! Your cool head gasket Canada will definitely heat up as you discover these splendid cars at the show especially if you happen to see the latest Ford Focus model! Every new model is the center of attention for every pair of automotive eyes present. And of course the Ford Focus is one of the crowd favorites in the spotlight! What’s with the Focus that makes us fall for it easily? Let’s listen to John Fleming, the President and CEO of Ford of Europe, and check out his review of the 2008 Focus!

"The Ford Focus is very special to Ford in Europe. When it was revealed in 1998 it represented a huge step forward for us in terms of style and desirability over its predecessor. It truly changed the perception of Ford for many customers and journalists alike. That's why we felt it was vital to apply our new Ford design language, 'kinetic design', to the Focus as soon as we could. At the same time, we have taken the opportunity to make Focus even more practical and contemporary and added further quality improvements. Our design and development teams have done a really great job and I'm proud to present the new Ford Focus," says Fleming, President and CEO, Ford of Europe.

The New Ford Focus’ Details At A Glance:

New 'kinetic design' exterior
New interior with enhanced quality and new centre console
New Ford PowerShift six-speed double-clutch transmission
New Focus ECOnetic with average CO 2 of only 115 g/km
New Focus with 1.6-litre TDCi engine - all variants achieve 120 g/km CO 2

In the article published in http://www.media.ford.com/, Gunnar Herrmann, the C-Car Vehicle Line Director of Ford of Europe, during the introduction of the new Ford Focus, shared his thoughts about the new Focus: "It is not easy to improve something that is already good and well-proven. If you don’t take great care you run the risk of unnecessarily changing something that was really good before - and not for the better. With the Ford Focus, acknowledged as a great car, we were determined not to implement change for change's sake. We nevertheless managed to make the new Focus even better in specific areas. But it also made us proud that many of its attributes did not have to be touched at all. So you can still look forward to enjoying the driving dynamics of the Focus."

"Energy in Motion - what Ford vehicle would better suit the Ford 'kinetic design' philosophy than the Focus? After all, the Focus was a major factor in establishing Ford’s excellent reputation for driving dynamics. The balance we have created between dynamics and harmony makes the new Focus the best looking Focus ever," added Martin Smith, the Executive Director Design for the mentioned Ford arm.

How Will You Convince Bill Ford?

2007-09-11T01:10:00.000-07:00

How are you supposed to convince Bill Ford, Jr. that the 104-year-old family company that he once run needs a total overhauling? Can you tell it straight to his face?

As FoMoCo’s sales continue to dwindle this summer, Alan Mulally, Ford’s new CEO, made a visit to the office of his boss. He intended to make a bold proposal - the selling of the company’s Volvo division.

"No," the honcho responded. “Volvo was one of the few profitable pieces of the car wreck that Ford Motor has become. It's still a great brand with great values."

Mulally, 62, retorted that if Ford can't jump-start sales of the cars with your name on them, "none of the rest of this is going to matter."

"I looked at him," Ford, 50, told Newsweek, "and I thought, 'You know, that's right'."

Bill Ford and Mulally’s situation is one of the strangest in the auto industry. A new chief hired by the boss who has somewhat contributed to the historic losses of the company and a boss who disregards family tradition of close control over everything in the hope of putting a halt to increasing losses.

"It's very unusual that the ex-CEO hangs around," Ford acknowledged in a joint interview with Mulally, the first they've given since the change. Mulally, 62, says he insisted Ford, 50, to remain as chairman because he values the enduring family commitment. "It's my private equity," Mulally quipped.

A year ago, Ford fired himself as CEO to pave the way for the Boeing exec. You might ask: "Is Bill Ford in witness protection?" Ford noted he didn't want any confusion about who is in charge now. "There's no time for any kind of political garbage," he said. "I had to keep saying, 'Alan, please don't worry about me ... We don't have time for politeness.’ Obviously everything was not done brilliantly in the past."

Basically, Mulally inherited the company at its lowest point. Newsweek reported he had to mortgage all the automaker's assets - including the Ford name - to raise a lifesaving $23 billion line of credit. He pulled Ford to a surprise $750 million profit in the second quarter, but it still loses money in the United States, where it's fallen behind Toyota. He has been a constant source of pressure at Ford. But so far, he hasn’t recruited a new exec to join the recuperation efforts.

Soon after Mulally arrived, execs began going to Bill Ford, saying the new guy didn't know what he was doing. Ford brushed them off, saying: "Talk to Alan. He's going to make the decisions."

Of course, Ford and Mulally won’t waste time talking about the design of Mazda car covers, Mercury tyres and Ford mirrors. Notwithstanding their awkward situation, Ford and Mulally have created a nice working relationship. "In the past, people wouldn't come in and tell me when things were screwed up," said Ford. "It really took somebody from the outside to come in and see the blindingly obvious."

Aston Martin New Models Go Sportier at Frankfurt

2007-09-09T23:27:00.000-07:00

If you think Aston Martin is finally going to have a break on creating more cars for the UK market, then you are wrong. The Ford Motor Company has completely sold the entire stake of the Ford luxury brand to three private equity groups. But they are still continuing the production of the vehicles under this brand. Of course, with quality like Audi tune up parts, I am pretty sure the new owner of the luxury car brand will definitely give it more fame and power.

At the soon to open Frankfurt Auto Show, two new sportier cars from Aston Martin are going to be revealed. These cars are purely racing-inspired according to the automaker.

The first sporty car was taken from last June’s 24-hour Nürburgring race. Remember the racing car called the V8 Vantage N24? One among the three racing cars was driven by Aston Martin Chief Executive Ulrich Bez. And the new car is based from it. The sportier car I am referring to is called the V8 Vantage 400.

The car received the same powertrain part of a V8 4.3L engine that comes with 400 horsepower producing 310 pound-feet of torque top-end version. The new car also received the same sporty package like the second Aston Martin car. The new V8 Vantage 400 is given new interior and exterior decors as well as more electronics like HID headlamps, a 700-watt premium audio as well as satellite navigation.

The second sporty car is called the DB9 LM. It was taken from the June’s GT1 class 24-hour Le Mans race. The car that the DB9 LM was patterned from was the DBR9. The new car however does not come containing any fire extinguishers or roll cages but it does have an additional sporty package as an option. The new sporty car is also given new car parts like diamond-turned color-keyed alloy wheels including a revised suspension. The exterior part is covered with a silver paint job with the entire interior covered with more elegant special leather upholstery.

Prices and other specifications will be revealed at the auto show itself.

2008, A Colorful Year For Ford!

2007-09-06T17:24:00.000-07:00

Ford’s success is very evident over the years… just try to recall the achievements Ford has garnered over the past decades that brought out the best innovations that the industry has offered to millions of global consumers. Ford has maintained their status as one of the world’s leading auto manufacturers and up to the present, they still bring the brightest colors to the whole auto industry!

Speaking of colors, guess what I’ve heard from TheAuoChannel.com yesterday? Ford has prepared a new set of colors on its palette for their 2008 models! Of course, aside from auto parts like the Subaru distributor cap, a car must have the dazzling paintjob to attract more consumers! That’s why today, Ford has stroked the freshest shades on their vehicle line up!

“People express themselves in every aspect of their lives - from the hues in which they dress themselves and their homes to the color of vehicles that they drive - so we strive to deliver dynamic and diverse colors. After all, it’s the paint color that will first connect the customer with a vehicle, so we’re designing the best core colors technology now allows, along with the freshest hues to match the design trends and tastes of our diverse customers,” says Jon Hall, Ford’s lead paint designer.

“We look to various elements of our environment for inspiration about new color trends, including architecture and product design because these items have longevity. We figure if customers are going to commit to a brightly colored washer and dryer or sofa for instance, they’re apt to also choose a bolder-colored vehicle that will live their driveway for several years,” Hall added.

Here are some samples from Ford’s newest hues for the 2008 model year courtesy of TheAutoChannel.com:

“Color of the Year”

Ford is turning up the heat with a custom deep, spicy red - called Candy Apple Red - featured on the 2008 Ford Mustang.

The New Black

For the 2008 model year, black is the new black. Ford has created a new, industry-leading pigment named Tuxedo Black that will launch on the all-new Lincoln MKS flagship sedan.

Eat It Up

Ford’s 2008 vehicles are creating an appetite with new colors including Candy Apple Red, Dark Cherry, French Silk, Light Sage, Kiwi Green, Merlot, Orange Frost and White Chocolate.

Wellspring

Two of the top-selling colors on the new Ford Escape, Mercury Mariner and the hybrid versions

are Kiwi Green metallic and Ice Blue metallic. Additionally, a new opaque metallic that mirrors foliage, called Moss Green, is offered on the Lincoln MKZ and other sedans for 2008.

Density Rich

Select Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles will appear even more attractive in an all-new smoky-silver metallic, called Vapor, and incandesce bronze, called Earth.

No more Refrigerator Whites!

Ford’s great white effort started with the 2007 model year’s creamy White Chocolate tri-coat metallic. For 2008, Lincoln is offering the color White Suede across the line-up.

Savories

Blazing Copper - the trend color launched on the Ford Edge in 2007 is back!

Ford Workers Cling Tightly To Their Hope

2007-09-03T21:39:00.000-07:00

Amid the rigors of FoMoCo’s restructure plan, the company’s workers are still keeping their fingers crossed hoping that no further injuries would be inflicted to them.

It can be recalled that the turnaround plan of the automaker called for dramatic slashing of jobs, closing of plants and launching of new product lines that tickles consumers’ fancy. As such, a significant number of workers were deprived of their job. Even today, there are still some workers who may be meted with the same verdict. The situation is perhaps worse than brake hose Canada workers. But still, Ford workers do not want to throw their hopes away…

Free Press has shared this story:

Within days of arriving in Michigan 41 years ago, Carl Webb, now a 62-year-old Ford worker, landed a job making as much money in an hour as he had made in a day in his home state of Alabama. Over the years, two brothers, his wife, one daughter and two nieces would follow him into the auto industry. Seven Webbs are former or active hourly workers for Ford, a company they say has been a blessing to the family.

But on this Labor Day, a holiday initiated a century ago to honor working men and women, the Webb family, and much of metro Detroit, is coming to terms with a new labor movement and auto industry.

With the UAW contract expiring in two weeks, Ford, General Motors Corp. and Chrysler LLC are pushing hard to lower labor costs. Webb, a man with a booming voice and the passion of a tent revival preacher, said he has a message for the auto companies.

"I want to tell you one thing," Webb said in a recent interview with four relatives at UAW Local 400 in Shelby Township. "The news media throws out negative stuff - the UAW is the cause of the companies to be in the shape that they're in."

The UAW isn't the cause of the problems, Webb said. The UAW and its members helped build these companies. "The UAW will be around," Webb said. "We will be around. The old school is going to stay and protect these young people."

Union members represented 12% of the U.S. workforce in 2006, about half the percentage of 30 years ago, according to UnionStats.com, which tracks membership through U.S. census data.

The union, headquartered in Detroit, had 538,448 members, based on its annual report last year. That's about a third the size of its peak in 1969 with 1.5 million members. For the union’s members, the decline is frustrating because of the unraveling of a new scenario in the auto industry.

The fact is: nothing lasts forever. And jobs do not fall on the exception. Sadly, workers have to battle the fears to cling in the hope of a more positive tomorrow. At this point in time, that’s the most that they could do. But still, it is better than thinking negative and losing every positive light they have.

Ford Taurus Coming to Korea

2007-08-21T22:39:00.000-07:00

Through the web, I found several news reports and blogs talking about the new Ford Taurus. It has impressive specifications which makes it quite pleasing. Though it doesn’t seem to be sporty like those Chevy trucks with a stunning Chevrolet pickup hood scoop, the vehicle is found to be very elegant in its own way. It is widely used by enthusiasts in daily driving. That is because they know that it provides and brings assurance of sending out comfort and safety - both to driver and passengers.

In accordance to this, Ford opted to make the 2008 Taurus available all throughout several major countries. In spite having outstanding sales in the U.S. alone for more than twenty years already, they have seen an even greater opportunity of making it available worldwide. The face lifted version of the Taurus would surely boost more sales for the ailing company. That is since Taurus has already proven its durability for many years.

At the end of the month, specifically on August 27, the 2008 Taurus model is expected to be launched in South Korea. There, this redesigned and re-engined Five Hundred model will be competing with several locally manufactured sedans. Some of which are the Kia’s Opirus that is also known as the Amanti (in U.S.), and Renault Samsung’s SM5 and SM7 sedans.

Same as in the U.S. version, the Taurus in Korea will be having 263 hp 2.6 L V6 and six-speed auto trans. For that, the model would definitely be competitive enough.

I could already see the outcome of Ford’s success with this plan. Koreans would surely love the vehicle, just as the aficionados in the States had.

Ford With Force: On The Way To The Promise Land

2007-08-17T18:50:00.000-07:00

As an avid fan of Ford vehicles, I can really say that Ford cars are absolutely power performers. There’s no doubt about that! There are lots of instances when Ford cars have proven that they are the world renowned champion… And they will keep on fighting ‘til the end! Even my Mercedes car with splendid Mercedes Benz headlight rims cannot defy the power that is packed on every Ford vehicle!

Talk about power and speed, another Ford vehicle has displayed an exquisite performance on the race tracks! I’m talking about the Castrol GTX High Mileage Ford Mustang! This muscle racing car is driven by John Force, one of Ford Racing’s outstanding drivers. The Mustang and John Force are headed to their ultimate goal… the inaugural NHRA Countdown to the Championship! They sealed the championship berth by winning the event at the Lucas Oil Nationals in Brainerd, Minnesota.

From the news that I’ve read on FordRacing.com, John Force was asked: "Do you believe in momentum? Can you carry this over into this weekend at reading, and through the rest of the year?" John Forced replied, “Without a doubt. When you get on a roll, I’ve had where I won five races in a row before, five National events. I’ve won Brainard at least 11 times now. So, that’s quite an accomplishment. I don’t think anybody has won it more than three times. What’s amazing is you can get on a roll because of your mental attitude. We were beat-up pretty good, but I got to tell you what, we’ve learned how to win, but long before we won - 15 championships as a team and 14 as a driver, myself - before we won all that I had a lot of practice at losing, and I never gave up losing. I never accept that. Was I on overload? Everything between getting organized and on the new projects, it was a ton of overload, but I never forgot how I won. And [crew chief, Austin] Coil and I, one thing about it, we never panicked, we never talked about should we shuffle things around.

“We lost major players. Dean Antonelli went to run Ashley’s car and it was flying; now it’s struggling. But the racing events have almost become a two-shot race. You’ve got to get it qualified in two shots, because in the four, you’re put in the heat of the day. You’ve got to get those two shots in. If you struggle, then you’ve got a long shot in qualifying in the heat. But, what we never did was change the way we got here. We don’t just jump up and say ‘Well, the driver’s bad or crew chief’s bad, let’s make a change.’ I don’t do the game that way!"

Good luck to you guys! Bring home the bacon!

Ford Park Received a Prime Site Award

2007-08-14T00:43:00.000-07:00

I still need to look for some Audi OEM parts for a friend so I won’t be making this long. I just found an interesting topic that I opt to share with you all.

There are 27 SMG-managed facilities that are to be awarded with the Prime Site Award by the Facilities and Destinations Magazine. I’m greatly impressed that Ford Park has been one of them and this was as decided by meeting planners from the associations, corporations and other organizations. This means that Ford Park was able to meet or even exceed to the standard quality venue, features and services provided.

I found the complete list of the said 27 SMG-managed facilities that will be receiving the recognition as based from kfdm.com and these are all there are:

Atlantic City Convention Center, Atlantic City, NJ
Baton Rouge River Center Convention Center, Baton Rouge, LA
Broward County Convention Center, Fort Lauderdale, FL
Colorado Convention Center, Denver, CO
Cox Business Services Center, Oklahoma, OK
David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Pittsburgh, PA
DCU Center, Worcester, MA
DeVos Place, Grand Rapids, MI
Direct Energy Centre, Toronto, ON
Ford Park, Beaumont, TX
Fresno Convention Center, Fresno, CA
Greater Columbus Convention Center, Hampton, VA
Hawaii Conventin Center, Honolulu, HI
Knoxville Convention Center, Knoxville, TN
Long Beach Convention Center, Long Beach, CA
Meadowlands Exposition Center, Secaucus, NJ
Memphis Cook Convention Center, Memphis, TN
Miami Beach Convention Center, Miami Beach, FL
Mobile Convention Center, Mobile, AL
Moscone Center, San Francisco, CA
Palm Springs Convention Center, Palm Springs, CA
Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center, Jacksonville, FL
Puerto Rico Convention Center, San Juan, PR
Reliant Center, Houston, TX
Rhode Island Convention Center, Providence, RI
Salt Palace Convention Center, Salt Lake City, UT

What makes this Ford Park deserving? We’ll these are some of the details I found in the reliable site:

Ford Park is strategically located on Interstate Highway 10 between Houston and Lake Charles and serves a market area of 1.5 million people with-in a one hour drive. Ford Park consists of the 18,000 seat Ford Pavilion, the 9,500 seat Ford Arena, the 48,000 sq. ft. Ford Exhibit Hall with 8 meeting rooms, Ford Midway with ag barns & 9-acres of paved festival grounds, Ford Fields with 12 ball diamonds, and several other privately developed and managed businesses complimentary to Ford Park.

I’m really fascinated.

That’s so much of being impressed with Ford for now. I still have few things to settle so I will be catching you guys later or some other time.

Ford Sync Now Affordable

2007-08-10T18:32:00.000-07:00

In-car connectivity will never be as expensive as before. Oh yes, it will be as affordable as the EGR valve Canada. Car entertainment and communication will be whole lot better this time!

Ford Motor Company’s in-car connectivity - the Sync - has cut down its price! The in-car feature is now down to $395 if the Sync will be set as an optional standard. It was confirmed by the Ford Motor Company last August 9, 2007 according to the news that I came across with at Ford.com yesterday. The distribution and pricing approach of the Ford Sync, an advanced in-car entertainment and communication system, was developed in partnership with Microsoft and the system will be set as standard on Lincoln cars and would be generally accessible in Mercury cars and Ford vehicles as well.

On high series models such as the Ford Edge or the Ford Focus SES, the Sync will be acquired as a standard too!

“Consumer reaction to Sync has been extremely positive since our launch earlier this year. This positive reaction has convinced us to make the system widely available across our range of Ford, Lincoln and Mercury products. The simplicity and capability of Sync have tremendous appeal and the affordability we are confirming today is certain to drive ever greater interest,” says Cisco Codina, Ford’s group vice president of North America Marketing, Sales and Service.

Sync In-Car connectivity is Ford’s exclusive equipment based on Microsoft Auto software which offers customers the luxury and flexibility to carry out digital media players such as Microsoft Zunes, Apple iPods, other MP3 players and Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones into their vehicle and maneuver the gadgets by means of voice commands or with the radio controls vehicle’s steering wheel.

“Drivers want a simple solution to stay connected to the information, entertainment and people most important to them while on the road. Ford Sync, based on the Microsoft Auto software platform, is an updatable, smart and convenient solution for connecting your car with your life,” said Velle Kolde, the product manager of Microsoft’s Automotive Business Unit.

Within two years, the Sync will be available on almost all Ford, Mercury and Lincoln vehicles. The launch will start this fall, primarily with the Ford Edge, Ford Focus and the Lincoln MKX. Sync will be standard or available on the following 2008 model-year vehicles by the end of the year:

Ford Edge
Mercury Sable
Lincoln MKX
Ford Explorer
Mercury Milan
Lincoln MKZ
Ford Explorer Sport Trac
Mercury Mountaineer
Ford Focus
Ford Fusion
Ford Taurus
Ford Taurus X

Ford Mondeo – on its moment

2007-08-07T02:12:00.000-07:00

The new Ford Mondeo is made larger, longer by 96mm and wider by 120mm from the previous year model. But, despite the increase in size, they still managed to keep its excellent ride and handling balance through its distinct quality chassis. A disadvantage would be that it would be harder to park, since the rearview wouldn’t be that easy to access.

This third generation Ford Mondeo is available as a five door hatchback, four door saloon or estate, with a wider choice of electronic gadgets. It includes these:

Adaptive cruise control
Voice-activated infotainment systems
Collision mitigation equipment
Adaptive damping

But, it is not limited there. A special feature includes a fuel tank known to be efficient in preventing the car to be inappropriately filled with petrol or diesel. The petrol engine comes in a variety of range from 1.6, including a 2.0 four cylinder and 2.3 and 2.5 five cylinder versions. On the other hand, the diesel engine comes in 1.8 and 2.0 TDCi Trim levels, available in the Edge and even to the Zetec, Ghia and the Titanium X.

Among the given engine types, I personally prefer the 2.0 TDCi, which actually offers a better fuel economy and superior performance.

This vehicle is not more competitive in the rival between the VW Passat, Vauxhall Vectra, Peugeot 407, BMW 3 Series and even the Audi A4 or the Audi A6 (both equipped with more sophisticated Audi A4 parts and Audi A6 parts). Ford Mondeo beat them in three distinct areas: ride quality, cabin spacing and handling, which are importance features of a vehicle to provide comfort to user or owner.

This new Ford Mondeo has proven its quality well enough in test drives. And, it didn’t fail to impressive car enthusiasts. Ford was able to enhance its capacity and I’m expecting them to do more for the following, even in other model, especially now that they are aiming to equip them with sophisticated technology.

The Deuce Mania!

2007-08-03T22:53:00.000-07:00

For so many years, the Ford Deuce has been an American icon because of its timeless charm and oozing X-factor that every American loves! It sure is fascinating than auto parts Canada or your latest sports car! The Deuce is packed with not so expensive V-8 Flathead engine which was inspired by the one and only Henry Ford. The design was taken cared of by his son Edsel. And eventually, the Deuce became a sensation and was them proclaimed as the earliest favorite for all those hot rodders.

For its 75th year, fans and owners of the 1932 Ford Deuce Coupe will pay tribute to this magnificent car with a variety of entertainment, exhibits, and many more activities. The celebration for 75th Anniversary of the ’32 Deuce will begin on August 9 in Dearborn, Michigan.

Now, to all interested fanatics of the ’32 Ford Deuce, here are the series of events during the celebration of the Deuce’s 75th Anniversary! Check your calendar and be there if you don’t want to miss half of your life. Here’s the agenda for August 9th to the 12th which is when Deuce’s 75th and Ford Flathead Celebration (these I got from Deuce75.com):

THURSDAY, AUGUST 9th:

Registration opens at 9:00 am to 6:00 pm for ’32 Fordsand Ford V-8
Flathead powered vehicles.
Swap Meet Open all day at the Hyatt Hotel
Hyatt Kick-Off Party at the Dearborn Hyatt - 7 pm to 10 pm

FRIDAY, AUGUST 10th:

Tour on your own local Dearborn Attractions (Village Industries Rouge Assembly Plant, the Fairlane Mall, Automobile Hall of Fame, Henry Ford Fairlane Estate, and Roush Racing Museum Tour, Livonia Mi) at 9am to 11am
32 Fords and V-8 Flathead vehicles gather at the Henry Ford II World Center 12 noon - 4 pm
Swap Meet Open all day at the Hyatt Hotel
Friday Evening Buffet Dinner with Ford 7 pm to 10 pm

SATURDAY, AUGUST 11th

Fords andFlathead powered cars at the Henry Ford Museum & Greenfield Village “Deuce@75” Anniversary Celebration 9:30 am to 5pm
All registered vehicles may be driven around the Ford Test Track
Drive to the track from from the Greenfield Village 9 am to noon only
Sign up to join Ford Racing for "Hot Lap" around the track with a professional driver for a minimum Donation in the amount of $25.
9 am to Noon Limited capacity for this event - sign up early!
Swap Meet Open ‘til Noon
Saturday Night Date Night 6:30 - midnight
Barbecue
Live Band
Drive-In Movie

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12th

Cruise to the Edsel Ford Estate for Sunday Morning Brunch
Tour of the Ford Estate Mansion
a great photo opportunity
Begins at 9 am

Another Victorious Weekend For Ford!

2007-08-01T19:44:00.000-07:00

It has been another winning weekend for our beloved Ford Mustang! Oh yeah! John Force and Eric de Doncker knocked their opponents out and they both grabbed the crown from the NHRA Funny Car and the GT4 European Cup competition! On the other hand, Matt Kenseth, Greg Biffle and Carl Edwards are the top and best Ford drivers in the NASCAR competition last weekend which was held in Indianapolis. In the Nextel Cup Race, Kenseth was ranked 10^th, Biffle was second in the Busch Series and in the In Craftsman Truck Series Race, Kvapil grabbed third place! Force’s way to his second victory of the season was contested by teammate and daughter Ashley in the first round, marking their second meeting of the season.

“I want to thank Austin Coil, Bernie Fedderly, John Medlen, Jimmy Prock, Dean Antonelli, everybody who makes my ‘ol hot rod talk. In the final, you look at a young kid like Worsham with all his energy. I said, ‘Coil, I don’t have that much to give’ and he said the hardest race I had today was the race against Ashley.

“That was the toughest race. I thought about it and that was true. And that helped me reach back and find something for the final,” told Force.

In California, the Mustang got a one sweet victory race; the other win was in Belgium while de Doncker stood on his feet and was able to secure his second win last weekend’s past two events. He led the race all through the several laps.

De Doncker happily said, “It was a fantastic race – I’m really happy. The team did a really good job fixing the car after yesterday’s race. The only problem I had was my windscreen fogging up – the first lap was okay, but then it was a big problem. Once it stopped raining it was okay, and I pulled out a good gap to Buncombe. But then it started raining again; for the last three laps I couldn’t see anything - I missed two or three apexes, and I didn’t even see the checkered flag! My team had to tell me on the radio the race was over.”

Greg Biffle with a smile on his face said, “It was a really good night. The car was really, really tough to drive. Probably the toughest car that I’ve ever driven at this race track, I don’t know why. To be honest with you, I don’t know why we did so well. Track position was a lot of it. I ran the thing in the fence three or four times on my own. Carl (Edwards) and I were racing really hard together and I kind of got in the fence a couple of times on the back stretch, which probably wasn’t good. It was a good night and I had a lot of fun.”

The Ford Mustang: Hollywood Celebrity!

2007-08-01T01:02:00.001-07:00

For so many years, the Ford Mustang has sustained its appeal and still continues to captivate everyone’s heart. America’s favorite pony car has been in the industry for so many years and yet, people still can’t get enough of the Mustang! Its forty years of existence made it a certified star not only on the streets but in the silver screens as well by starring in over 500 films. If the Oscars had a category for the Lifetime Achievement Award for Best Vehicle, the Mustang would definitely get the honors!

So let’s get this straight - the Mustang is the only vehicle to star in over 500 movies than any other car! We can really tell how special this pony car is to the people. It’s not only a powerful performer, but a certified star that makes any movies a great hit!

Here are the best blockbuster films which were starred by our beloved Ford Mustang:

Bullitt (1968): Steve McQueen, a 1968 Mustang GT390 and the streets of San Francisco combined to create what many critics hold to be the definitive movie car chase scene.
2 Fast 2 Furious (2003): A lipstick red 2001 Ford Saleen S281 supercharged Mustang coupe starred in 2003’s adrenaline-pumping explosive movie, the "2 Fast 2 Furious."
Hollywood Homicide (2002): A 2003 Ford Saleen S281 supercharged Mustang. 2003’s detective action drama "Hollywood Homicide" was starred by Harrison Ford and Josh Hartnett.
Gone in 60 Seconds (2000): A modified 1967 Shelby Mustang GT500 dubbed Eleanor was central to the exciting plot of the 2000 hit movie "Gone in 60 Seconds" starring Nicholas Cage and Angelina Jolie.
"Bull Durham," (1988),
"Cape Fear" (1991),
"The Princess Diaries," (2001
"Goldfinger" (1964)
"Diamonds are Forever" (1971).

Other movies include (courtesy of copperstatemustangclub.com):

Amityville: The Demon (1965-6 Mustang coupe)
April Fools, The (1968 Mustang convertible)
Almost Famous (1965 Mustang coupe)
Bad Boys (1995 version) (Cobra replica)
Batman and Robin (1964 Shelby 289 Cobra)
Bean (1965 Mustang convertible)
Beverly Hills Cop III (1966 Mustang convertible)
Children of the Corn II (1965 Mustang convertible)
Clerks II (1966 Mustang coupe)
Curse of the Black Widow (1968 Mustang convertible, 1967 Mustang coupe)
Dazed and Confused (1965 and 1967 Mustang convertible, 1969 coupe)
Diamonds Are Forever (1971 Mach 1)
Forever Young (1967 Mustang)
Fright Night Part 2 (1966 Mustang Fastback)
Get Carter (2000 version) (1965 Mustang coupe)
Independence Day (1965 Mustang convertible)
J. F. K. (1965 Mustang convertible)
Kiss the Girls (1966 Mustang coupe)
Last American Hero, The (1967 Mustang Fastback)
Love Bug, The (1966, 67, 69 Mustang coupes, 1967 Mustang convertible and 2 1964 Shelby 289 Cobras, 1965 Sunbeam Tiger)
National Lampoon's Favorite Deadly Sins (1971 Mustang convertible)
Prisoner of Second Avenue, The (1969 Mustang coupe)
Promise of Love, The (1965 Mustang convertible & coupe)
Protector (1998) (1967 Mustang Convertible)

The Ford Escape Hybrid Is...

2007-07-26T01:12:00.000-07:00

You want to know the deepest facts about the Mother Earth-loving Ford Escape Hybrid? I’m sure you do! So why don’t you leave those Subaru engine parts first and listen to these bits of info I gathered from my favorite Ford site, Ford.com!

Ok, so what makes the Escape hybrid admirable? How does it differ from any other vehicle? Don’t you worry because all of your questions will be answered accordingly with the help of this piece of information.

These details are highly informative! And in case you don’t know the real deal of the Escape hybrid, now is your chance to get to know this ride even more! Let’s start shall we? But before anything else, I’d like to thank ford.com for providing me with these very interesting and very helpful pieces of information!

The Ford Escape Hybrid…

…The most fuel-efficient SUV on the planet! EPA rated at 34 miles per gallon in city driving, the front-wheel drive Escape Hybrid is the most fuel-efficient SUV on earth! It can run up to 500 miles on one tank of gas.

… A Full’ Hybrid Capability! The Escape Hybrid is a “full” hybrid, which can be automatically switched between natural gasoline engine power natural electric power, or combined operation to make the most of its effectiveness and performance. It’s a one-two punch combination of gasoline engine and electric motor working in progress that provides great performance similar to V-6 engine. So what could you ask for? It’s two in one hell of a vehicle!

…Partial Zero Emission Vehicle (PZEV) Certified! The Escape Hybrid significantly lessens smog-forming discharges! It meets the cleanest emissions standard obtainable for a vehicle that uses fossil fuels! In California’s AT-PZEV standard, it measures an astonishing cleanliness of 99.4 percent, on standard, compared to a loose vehicle. The Escape Hybrid will conserve approximately 1,666 gallons of gas over 100,000 miles. It effectively prevents 32,000 pounds of carbon emissions.

….Ford Escape, Mercury Mariner Hybrid Have Highest Tax Credits! Since the real world fuel economy of the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner Hybrids amplified for the 2008 model year, the Federal income tax credits now available are $3,000 for FWD models (up $400) and $2,200 on 4WD models (up $250). Wow, that is really sky-high!

…Insurance Discounts for Ford Escape, Mercury Mariner Hybrids: Travelers, one of the biggest source of personal insurance products in the United States. It gives hybrid drivers in the states of California, New Jersey, Texas, New York, Maryland, Florida, Kentucky, Georgia and Washington discounts up to 10 percent on definite coverage. The company estimates their hybrid policy business went over 200 percent last year!

To view all facts about the Ford Escape hybrids, just log on to ford.com/newsroom.com and you’ll find the other facts along with the details shown above.

Ford Motor Company Needs More Facility Workers in Melbourne

2007-07-24T22:42:00.001-07:00

I am thinking about Ford lately. They have been so busy entering other car markets like China and Europe. Is it because they are no longer selling well in the US car market? It is pretty obvious though but at least Ford is doing something about it, right?

Last week, the domestic automaker was reported to be acquiring the previously bankrupt Daewoo assembly plant in Romania. But today, Ford is again reported on the net as they are looking for more car workers for its facility plant in Melbourne, Australia.

The US car maker announced that they are planning to produce 40,000 new four-cylinder vehicles in their Campbellfield, Melbourne plant this coming 2011. In connection to this plan, they are looking for more workers to work on this particular project. These workers will be responsible for making fuel pumps, headlights and many other car parts.

Most of these cars are expected to be sold in the Aussie car market but some will also reach New Zealand as well as South Africa. The news sprouted on the net after they released a report that they are shedding 600 workers on their Geelong plant as it is scheduled to close this coming 2010. Tom Gorman, the Ford president, hopes that these factory workers will be sent to its Campbellfield facility in Melbourne, Australia.

He said, "Employees that are interested in that opportunity, we'll make that available to them." However, the Ford Motor Company still has to decide where to place all these 600 Geelong workers.

More Action at the Goodwood Festival of Speed

2007-07-23T19:58:00.000-07:00

I wasn’t able to see the car action live but thanks to youtube.com, for I got to see the missed actions on the race track. I love cartoon inspired vehicles. I remember, when I was a kid I used to wait outside my house looking for the milky bar vehicle to pass by. Colorful cars feed my eyes with a nostalgic image. I just find them so interesting, as if I’m going back to my good old childhood days.

These cartoon cars went to the Goodwood Festival of Speed. From the parade of all cars on the track, I found my eyes mesmerized by this particular vehicle from a Hanna-Barbera cartoon - Wacky Races. Well, looking back again, the show only run for two years specifically from 1968 to 1970. But it was sent to the race track driver by wacky drivers as well. Funny, huh? But it was a good one. The race was actually based on the cartoon film called, "The Great Race."

I found a list of other wacky cars on the track. A special thanks to autoblog.com for lending us this list. Here check it out:

1. The Slag Brothers in the Bouldermobile
2. The Gruesome Twosome in the Creepy Coupe
3. Professor Pat Pending in the Convert-a-Car
4. Red Max in the Crimson Haybailer
5. Penelope Pitstop in the Compact Pussycat
6. Sergeant Blast and Private Meekly in the Army Surplus Special
7. The Ant Hill Mob in the Bulletproof Bomb
8. Luke and Blubber Bear in the Arkansas Chuggabug
9. Peter Perfect in the Turbo Terrific
10. Rufus Ruffcut and Sawtooth in the Buzz Wagon

BMW ventured in making Small Cars

2007-07-18T19:39:00.000-07:00

We can never deny the fact that small cars are also hot these days. Imagine better handling, sleeker in size vehicle with easy to navigate features? All these are found on the small car. The thought of it make the BMW create micro mini cars under the MINI platform as the MotorAuthority reports. BMW is competing with both the Volkswagen and Audi brands in this matter as both are also creating and marketing small cars.

The new small car will be dashing on the car market as early as 2010. BMW based its platform on MINI cars with regards to its powertrain and looks. BMW may release the small car sooner if they have decided on the specifications that they will give the new car. MINI cars have been reported to receive more orders these days so BMW may also want the same thing.

And among the reasons why BMW is hitching on making small cars is the CO2 limits impended by the European Union legislations. The German car brand is hoping to meet the standards set by creating tiny, fewer-emission car models which they think could earn few more credits on its V8 to V12 car models.

Some German car manufacturers like Audi, Mercedes and BMW may not be in the limelight these days but they are still selling in the US car market but the environmental concerns are making these car makers move into a new venture.

Let us include the brands M-B A-Class and Audi A1. We all know that these brands are considered high class and too expensive or maybe cheaper compared to other brands. But car buyers are looking for cheaper or greener features which are the hottest types of cars nowadays. However, they are also looking for luxury cars. But they prefer cars with quality parts.

The Mustang Equipped With The First Soy Based Seat Foam

2007-07-13T20:29:00.000-07:00

Soy-foam… Have you heard about this? Probably some of you already have. But I do know that many of us are familiar with soybean. Actually, soy-bean has something to do with soy-foam. Anyway, soon enough, everyone will be familiar with this soy-foam.

Want to know why? Because in no time, another automotive milestone awaits as Ford and the Lear Corporation introduces the first ever soy-based foam in the seat back and seat cushions in August. The powerful muscle car Ford Mustang 2008 model will be the first one to make use of this one of a kind breakthrough! America’s most admired pony car will start using the soy-foam beginning next month at the Auto Alliance International factory in Flat Rock Michigan which is the Mustang's original stable.

Ford has a prosperous background in including soy based materials into their products. One of the best examples of Ford products that utilized soy-based materials is the Model T which carried out 60 pounds of soybeans in its paint and molded plastic parts. Another was the Model U which was introduced in 2003.

“Our technical team had to overcome several significant hurdles to bring this environmentally responsible technology to production,” said Gerhard Schmidt, the vice president of Research & Advanced Engineering at Ford Motor Company. “We are pleased that our diligent efforts in developing this technology have resulted in the production of soy-foam for the Ford Mustang.”

Once again, Ford is the pioneer in around the globe to show that soy-based polyols could be used to produce foam at a high percentage which is competent of meeting or going beyond automotive requirements. The Ford Motor Corporation and Lear Corporation created a joint venture to commercialize the application of soy-foam with a preliminary effort concentrating on the molding of armrest and headrest gears. On the other hand, Lear Corporation is the leader in the field of environmental systems that specialize in car seating with industry firsts such as polyethylene and polypropylene materials.

“Using renewable resources is an important means to supplying automotive products that improve environmental impact,” said Ray Scott, the senior vice president and president of Lear’s Seating Systems Division. “This also helps in reducing the amount of pollution in the production of materials for automotive use. Ford Motor Company and Lear Corporation are able to bring this product to market ahead of our competitors due largely to our collaborative work with in the area of ‘Green’ technology.”

“Soy is a very green, renewable resource,” says Debbie Mielewsk, the technical leader for Ford’s Materials Research & Advanced Engineering Department. “Using soy-based foam gives us the opportunity to conserve natural resources and reduce our environmental footprint.”

Ford Dominated The Racetracks

2007-07-11T01:45:00.000-07:00

It was an emotional and victorious moment for Ford last weekend! Why emotional? Tears have flown… the tears of joy and triumph! Yep, it was definitely a dramatic weekend for Ford as they garnered three wins in three different series. What an awesome way to enjoy the weekend! The smiles from the members of Ford racing team shone as bright as their Ford headlights. I guess the Ford catalytic converter has done a great job once again.

Driver of the No. 26 Fusion Jamie McMurray won Saturday night’s NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series race in Daytona. This was his first win with Roush Fenway Racing and Ford, and his Cup career’s second victory. McMurray can’t believe himself that he won the race right until his team called him up on the radio. They concluded and cleared that he has done it and it’s over. McMurray controlled himself from getting too emotional but he ended up shedding his tears because of so much happiness.

Second good news is, John Force got his first win of the season in the NHRA Funny Car Series race in Bristol while Eric de Doncker won in Race 2 of the GT4 European Cup weekend in Oschersleben, Germany, which was the second victory for the Mustang FR500C ever since its debut in the series of 2007.

“I didn’t even know it was the last lap, to be honest with you guys,” said McMurray. “I was on the backstretch, and I’m like, ‘How many laps are left?’ And Larry [Carter] is like, ‘This is it.’ And I was like, ‘Okay. I’ll do my best.”

“I didn’t know that I won. I actually hit the wall after crossing the start-finish line, and I wasn’t sure I won; there was so much screaming on the radio and I couldn’t tell. I didn’t know if we were screaming because we were happy or we were screaming because we didn’t know if we won. So, I was trying to just hold it all in until I was positive that we’d won,” he definitely added.

“Jamie, I’m sure, has had more trouble getting from me the things that would put him in this position consistently,” said Roush. “And I’ve had trouble figuring out what I could do to put him in this position consistently. So I kind of threw it back to him late last year. I said, ‘Jamie, I’ve made a number of changes in your team last year that I thought were good for you and it didn’t work out. You’re going to have to help me.”

“He went out and searched the garage area and came back with Larry Carter, [he] was the guy that he thought he could do his business with,” continued Roush. “So then we had a conversation with Larry, and Larry was available and we put it together. The re-birth of this team, to do what we’re doing with it this year, is Jamie first, at the center of it, and Larry second. My hat’s off to them for doing such a great job.”

Ford Motor Company wants a Romanian plant

2007-07-06T23:32:00.000-07:00

The American auto maker Ford Motor Company expressed its interest in purchasing a Romanian plant which was formally owner by a South Korean company Daewoo after the General Motor Corporation dropped out on the deal.

Other than GM, there are other companies that want the Daewoo plant - these include Chery, some Chinese auto makers, Tata Motors from India and GAZ from Russia. These are only a few among those who are interested in buying the said Daewoo Automobile Craiova plant. But according to AVAS, only the Ford Motor Company had a statement.

With the plan to expand their capacity in both central and Eastern Europe, GM planned to purchase the plant according to a spokesman from the US car maker. Though GM might have financial equity between both locations, GM still considers purchasing the Daewoo plant while still being able to manage its plants in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Russia, Ukraine and Russia. However, because of an unannounced reason, GM had to drop the deal. However, GM is still looking for some options regarding the location of the possible future plant of GM - this was the reason why the US car maker dropped the possible purchase of the plant according to Mark Kempe.

The Daewoo plant in Craiova was purchased last 2006 for only $51 million and additional $10 million was shelled out because of some stemming cash debt and unpaid loans of the Korean auto maker. The plant will no longer produce vehicles on the plant according to its AVAS head, Teodor Atanasiu. Before the plant went on sale, it was producing 300,000 vehicles every year.

As of Ford, they have closed some of their production plants in the US because of financial reasons. Aside from that, the cars they produce were no longer selling greatly so they had to close some of their plants. But I guess Ford is venturing to other infamous auto locations like China and some parts of Europe. And the reason why they express their interest in purchasing the previous Daewoo plant is to produce more vehicles in that area.

We’ll keep you posted as soon as updates on the said purchase are announced.

Ricardo’s New Invested Manufacturing Technology

2007-07-04T01:13:00.001-07:00

Yes, the Ricardo have decided to invest a huge amount of money over the latest and advanced manufacturing technology they are planning to get. Because of the demand for the car with high performance features, Ricardo have decided to spend £0.5M on the enhancement of their precision gear grinding capability in its Midlands Technical Centre in the UK.

On the latest Le Mans, we have seen most of the cars have tuned up a high performance transmission. And according to the Ricardo, they need to revamp some of their products in order to compensate with the latest technology on the race track. These cars will be on the Formula One and on the World Rally Championship as well.

All the cars must be sent to motorsport engineering and will be given a chance to have an advantage on the circuit. All the transmissions on the competitions must have ultra-high standards in terms of reliability and performance as well in order to contribute to the success on the race. If Ford has Ford wheels, Ford Bronco parts and the Ford bumper, these new systems will also the new advanced features they just need to battle up with other cars.

This competitive performance transmission will only receive the effective and optimized tune up according to the news, but they also have to be manufactured to précised dimensions. Ricardo have invested almost half a million on the German manufacturing technology in order for these individual gears that need to be tuned be given a few microns.

The recently installed Höfler Promat 400kk gear grinding centre will not only deliver the production tolerances that they never had before but also it will enable the manufacturers to do more up-to-date designs.

The purpose of the super high frequency spindle that runs the diameter of the grinding wheels is to enable the gears and splines to have a restrictive access that would be produced. The system that will be soon available will also enable the gears to be cut from the blanks where tools are not available. The existing grinding amenities of Ricardo are the Oerlikon Opel 80; and the Reishauer 362 will also be complimented by the new system called Höfler.

“We are pleased to announce this significant investment in our advanced manufacturing capability. Ricardo has built an enviable reputation in the design and manufacture of race-winning transmission and driveline systems for the highest levels of motorsport. This success relies upon access to the latest manufacturing and design technologies. The addition of this advanced new gear grinding facility demonstrates our commitment to this highly competitive business, and to the race success of our customers,” Mark Barge, the director of Ricardo’s high performance transmissions products, said.

Kenseth Grabbed 9th Place In Nextel Cup Race At New Hampshire

2007-07-03T01:01:00.001-07:00

What an exciting weekend it is! And there’s nothing more exciting than the Nextel Cup Race held at New Hampshire! It was indeed one of the most soul-shaking races of the ages. I’ve watched the race only on TV but it was like watching it live on the stands of New Hampshire race tracks because you can feel the adrenaline rush on your nerves as the race commenced in a dramatic fashion!

Of course, Ford fanatics cheered their hearts out for their favorite driver. Matt Kenseth, one of my top pick drivers, finished ninth in the race. It was a fair finish but it came with an exceptional driving performance. Let’s hear it from the man as he talks about his thoughts about the recent Nextel Cup race at New Hampshire! Here’s Matt Kenseth, the driver of the No. 17 DeWalt Ford Fusion, during a recent interview.

“We ended up passing some cars on pit road and making some adjustments and got it better, but we’re not good enough to beat these guys. With these cars it’s all about being in the front. It’s really hard to come from behind and do much with them,” he starts.

When asked if the car was made better, he replies, “Yeah, we definitely made it better. We were still off, but it was a lot better. It was a top-10 car and we finished ninth, so we definitely made some improvement.”

Of course, he was also asked about the changes done to the vehicle and if they would help out for the next COT race. He did answer, “I hope so. We’ve got a long way to go with these things to compete for wins. They’re so sensitive to little things. There are only so many areas you can work, so the areas we can work we’re just missing it a little bit. We’ve got to work on the front suspension and figure out how to make the front ends turn better and then, hopefully, we’ll be more competitive.”

“Yeah, they always do really good. They always keep us in the races,” he added, talking about his pit crew being strong and vigorous enough during the whole race.

His thoughts on the new car and the whole track? “Yeah, way tougher. They’re just so tight. You’re just kind of at the mercy of the front tires in the middle of the corner, but I thought it was a lot harder to pass than the other car, but my car wasn’t right either. The fastest car didn’t win. The guy who got two tires got out front and won, so I think it’s probably more about track position with these cars than even the old ones.”

Ford Edge: Oozing with Appeal

2007-06-30T01:01:00.000-07:00

J.D. Powers and Associates named the Ford Flex as the industry’s top performing new vehicle. It was declared yesterday by J.D Powers and Associates’ 2007 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout StudyTM (APEAL). The newest five-passenger crossover smashed its competition in its segment by a unanimous 68 index points. With these results, the Ford Edge is definitely the industry’s top performing vehicle today!

In the Midsize MAV division, the Edge also notched the top spot in this category of J.D. Power’s APEAL study. In this study, after three months of driving, the customers evaluated the design, layout, content and performance of the vehicle just like what they did to all other products like the Saturn body kit.

“This is more good news and further affirmation that we’re delivering more products people really want – especially when you consider the newest vehicles in our lineup,” said Mark Fields, the president for the Americas, Ford Motor Company.

“Last year, Fusion topped its segment in the J.D. Power and Associates APEAL study. This year, fresh on the heels of Ford receiving top honors in five vehicle segments in the J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study (IQS), Ford receives more strong quality feedback from customers who made Edge the industry standout and a top performer in the fastest-growing and most competitive segment in the industry,” he said.

The Ford Mustang was also praised by the customers who participated in the APEAL study. It was ranked as the top Midsize Sporty Car division for two consecutive years. This is Mustang’s third hit after earning the Sporty Car segment award three years in a row. Three other Ford Motor Company vehicles ranked second or third in their divisions - the Ford Explorer Sport Trac grabbed 2nd; Lincoln Navigator on 3rd; and Mazda CX7 got the second place as well. In addition to this, almost all Ford Motor Company brands got better in terms of points and sustained their performance in the APEAL study last year.

“It’s gratifying to have two strong Ford nameplates – Edge and Mustang – leading the pack on consumer appeal,” Fields said. “While we’ll celebrate this achievement with our employees, we know that the quality race never ends. We’re going to continue working harder to provide people even more reasons to consider driving Ford vehicles again.”

“The lineup is growing stronger, and the Ford team’s efforts are paying off,” Fields noted. “We’re working to deliver our plan, and creating quality cars, trucks and crossovers for our customers is a key part of it.”

IIHS Top Safety Pick Goes to Ford Taurus X Crossover

2007-06-26T23:08:00.001-07:00

This summer, the Ford Taurus X Crossover will be delivered in showrooms tagged with two remarkable titles - the Top Safety Pick rating by the IIHS or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and a five-star crash test ratings from the government. The Top Safety Pick from IIHS can only be obtained by a vehicle if the best-available safety performance in front, side and rear collisions are achieved and also comes with electronic stability control.

“It’s a true testament to the safety engineering of the Taurus X crossover and the Taurus and Sable family cars that they achieved top crash test ratings from both IIHS and NHTSA,” said Sue Cischke, the senior vice president of Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering for the Ford Motor Company. “Ford and Volvo worked together to leverage our technical and intellectual resources to create an outstanding vehicle architecture. Now all three vehicles are better than ever. They offer it all: safety, power, spaciousness and comfort at a great value."

The Ford Taurus X is packed with standard AdvanceTrac® electronic stability control. It is also available in all-wheel drive to give drivers a more secure ride and enhanced handling in all weather conditions. By the end of 2009, all Ford, Lincoln and Mercury retail cars and trucks will arrive with a standard electronic stability control.

“We believe our electronic stability control systems enhance vehicle safety by helping the driver prevent many accidents in the first place,” Cischke said. “Making families safer is a key part of our pledge to drive safety innovation.”

The composition of the Taurus X, Taurus and the Sable family cars are built with crush zones especially designed to direct and turn excess energy around the passenger section into a strong safety cage. A modern cross-car beam “SPACETM Architecture” below the front seats strengthens the structure between the B-pillars, which assists direct energy far from passengers.

More Ford Diesel Vehicles for India

2007-06-22T01:24:00.001-07:00

As I searched for a Mercedes Benz air filter and a Mercedes Benz air mass meter, I’ve read the news from Reuters where Ford India made an incredible increase of almost 45 percent this March as compared to last year’s sales.

The vice president of Ford India's marketing and sales, Scott McCormack, said that Ford can be more superior but then they will still continue to have a conservative planning in almost every arrangement that they have deals with. Included is the presence of "localization opportunities" just to cut costs to be able to push on more aggressively in a market that is quite price-sensitive.

One proof of this superiority is the utmost sales of the Endeavour sport utility vehicle. Ford went in to the market and was able to sell 7,000 units starting from its launch. The company was also able to sell 15,000 units for the year in the market for premium SUVs.

Another reason why Ford is considered to be a good player in the auto market is due to the fact that they keep on launching schemes against high fuel prices and one of which is their encouragement to shift to diesel. It is anticipated that diesel's share of the Indian passenger vehicle market will reach 35 percent by 2010 from the previous 30 percent that they held.

The Endeavour vehicle is an all-diesel range and almost more than 75 percent of the sales of the Ford Fiesta are also in diesel. That makes up nearly 70 percent of Ford's sales in India. What is even more interesting is that by the third quarter of the year, the diesel variant of the Ford Fusion car will be launched.

Despite Ford’s success for the first 3 months of first quarter of this year, they still chose to continue to bring up their sales for the reason that they’ve witnessed the downward trend of Ford sales for the last month of the first quarter. In fact, their sales figures have continued to depreciate for the first month of the second quarter.

Aside from those aforementioned factors that paved the way for the depreciation of Ford vehicles’ value, competition makes a stand out of those. There’s the presence of Suzuki Motor Corp.'s Maruti Udyog Ltd. that grips almost half of the market and had launched a diesel model earlier this year.

Another is the Hyundai Motor Co. that is constructing a plant to create petrol and diesel engines. General Motors has launched its mini Chevrolet Spark and there is hearsay that soon they will build a new engine plant. Lastly is India's Mahindra & Mahindra and joint venture partner Renault that launched the Logan sedan last month.

Go for it Ford. Beat them up!

2008 Ford F-Series Super Duty Trucks are remarkably Unstoppable

2007-06-22T00:31:00.001-07:00

Living in the present scenario of having a high competitive truck market but given the fact that the world is facing harmful gases hanging out in the stratosphere, it seems that there’s an irony, right? But then 2008 Ford F-Series Super Duty is trying to kick up some dust and take a huge share in the market despite the given situation.

It was said that the strong launch increased the number of trucks that were sold and thus made the vehicle take the lead over the Chevrolet Silverado. Now that is enough proof that Ford trucks is still considered and respected as America's favorite pickup for almost 30 years. And another solid piece of proof is that the F-150 is at the top ranking when it comes to truck sales. Go Ford!

For the record just this April, the F-Series Super Duty’s sales accounted for about 43 percent of the car maker’s total and come the following month it was more or less 38 percent quite near to the average sales which is 40 percent. Almost there but not quite. But still, that’s okay.

Anyway, the Ford F-250 ranked as the top seller for 2007’s first quarter. And who will believe that in less that half a month, Ford’s latest model - the all-new Ford F-450 - would fly up so high on its sales as compared to other brands of the same segment. Another model from the 2008 F-Series Super Duty is following the same path, and at the end of April, the Lariat made corresponding sales that jumped up almost 30 percent.

According to Ben Poore, the Ford Truck marketing manager, “Ford has maintained its truck leadership by concentrating on what's important to the consumer. We always try to raise the bar in capability, power, innovation, refinement and style. With the new F-Series Super Duty, we have produced the most bold and capable truck ever."

I may say that Ford is continuing to win so much of the trust and confidence of consumers’ taste and preferences because the brand itself has been able to uphold its reputation as a good manufacturer of vehicles as well as its name as being the creator of unique models like the F-Series Super Duty Lariat King Ranch. At least they are able to reach the audience’s demand.

Ford even participated on certain events that will show and revere their partner brands and use the said events to directly learn just how buyers utilize their vehicles. This, thus, helps them understand and think of best future designs for their trucks.

One good example for this is the demand of Super Duty customers who like trucks that possess towing and hauling capabilities. That’s what the customers require. Ford built the only purpose-built heavy-duty truck platform for the 2008 F-Series Super Duty that attains a maximum 24,500 pounds of towing capacity - 8,000 pounds more than the nearest competitor. It also comes with a payload that has been increased to 6,120 pounds.

Ford’s design with the 2008 Super Duty's improved competence are due to the new F-450 with its own unique chassis coupled with a combination of axle, powertrain and suspension that facilitate better towing capacity. It also, at the same time, offers a relaxed and oozing driving performance.

One of the features of the 2008 Super Duty is its power-folding and power-telescoping mirrors for more towing convenience, and greater visibility. Add to that is the tailgate step that results for more convenience getting into and out of the bed plus the more flexible truck beds that allow you to a full space. These are just some of the features present on the 2008 Super Duty that allows Ford to get the attention of a greater share of the market.

And this coming fall, another model will be added to the line-up. Other features and options as well will be present. To name it - a new rear video camera parking aid system and a Ford F-350 with the Ford F-450's more capable and more maneuverable front suspension that will aid owners find the way on tight spots. Another one is the addition of 10 latest chassis cab models to increase the F-Series Super Duty's line-up for commercial customers.

Basically, Ford has really what it takes and that’s why buyers are still working hand in hand with the brand and are patronizing their products.

Well then so much so with that I have to go first to my dad who’s fixing his car’s Volvo brake hose and Volvo brake pads. Let’s then all wait and see what Ford has created for us in the upcoming months or so.

Ford Hits Another Milestone…

2007-06-14T23:27:00.000-07:00

What milestone are we talking about here? Here it is… Ford has already demonstrated a fleet of ethanol based hybrids and it is now all set to hit the roads after a series of tests and thorough studies. Ford has delivered their first three E85 Escape Hybrids yesterday to the Governor’s Ethanol Coalition (GEC), the Department of Energy and the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA). Fleet clients from six different states were handed down a total of twenty Ford Escape Hybrids - Ford’s venture into another significant history in the auto industry is now a reality and indeed a milestone for Ford!

"As a leader in both hybrid vehicles and in vehicles capable of operating on ethanol-based fuels, Ford is the ideal company to bring both technologies together for the first time," said Sue Cischke, Ford's senior vice president for its arm on Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering.

“Investing in ethanol is critical for our national security, our environment, and for Michigan’s economy,” said U.S. Senator Carl Levin (D-MI). “We can make huge strides by combining a massive effort on ethanol with other technologies such as hybrid cars and advanced diesel technologies. Ford is leading the way by producing the first hybrid car that can run on E85. I hope the E85 Ford Escape Hybrid is the first of many flex fuel hybrids driving us toward energy independence.”

“We can and should do more to reduce pollution from vehicles,” said U.S. Senator Christopher "Kit" Bond (R-MO). “Ford today is showing its leadership in clean and efficient vehicles with a first-ever hybrid SUV that will also run on bio-fuels. Their decision to assemble it in Kansas City is good news for the able automotive workers in Missouri."

The E85 Escape Hybrids brought by Ford are world’s first vehicles capable of running with the blends of fuel that contains as much as eighty-five percent of ethanol which can be provided by grown corn and sugar beets from America.

"The Governors’ Ethanol Coalition has worked cooperatively with Ford for more than two decades,” Nebraska Governor and Coalition Chair Dave Heineman said. “As Ford has developed new transportation technologies, we have been among the first to volunteer to provide Ford with real world testing of their products. We are pleased to work with a storied American vehicle manufacturer as the nation reduces its need for imported oil.”

"For ethanol to be a real player in the transportation sector and lessen America's dependence on foreign oil, we need a strong, long-term focus on policies that increase U.S. ethanol production and accelerate E85 infrastructure development," said Cischke. "We also need key partners like the oil industry to invest in developing and marketing renewable fuels, like E85. Without the whole-hearted involvement of the oil industry, we cannot move forward far enough or fast enough."

Could It Be The 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac?

2007-06-11T23:36:00.001-07:00

The latest 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is now available as an outgoing vehicle. But it seems like the Ford Motor Company is planning another Explorer to reveal to the public. They just can’t get enough, can they? The KGP photographers have spotted a prototype similar to the on going Ford Explorer Sport Trac only that the front as well as the back bumper are entirely covered. Could it be the next Ford Explorer Sport Trac? Or maybe it is something else.

Taking a closer look at the covers on the new prototype, you can see that a new mesh grille is installed in replacement of the three thin bars on the latest Sport Trac. The front bumper has been lowered as well with headlamps appearing to be a little carrying over. Surprisingly, the new design is more powerful - perhaps they have incorporated these new looks for a more powerful vehicle with improved crash performance. The tailpipes were also moved to its rear from the side as reported by the Winding Road. This will vent spend gases on the refreshed bumper.

The upgrades are interesting but we are not sure yet whether the new vehicle is the next Sport Trac. Do you think these revamps are actually the move to the next high performance version of the Ford Explorer Sport Trac? Unless Ford reveals the vehicle and show us the real score, we will stay stunned by it. Actually, we also have this thought that the car is based from its Sport Trac Aderenaline Concept which was released in 2005. Figure this out: twin tailpipes relocated out the back, a lowered front bumper, the headlights with a new grille that is actually looking like it was taken from the 2005 Sport Trac Aderenaline Concept. What do you think?

The cover is maybe hiding a new hood. And the giant fender vents from the concept maybe is found behind the wheels. The tape applied around the rear may also suggest that larger fender flares were placed at either fatter wheel or tire combo. The wheels and the suspensions of the new prototype are taken from the Sport Trac fare however, it may or it may not mean that the testing cooling or the components are also taken from the high-performance model.

It’s a little intriguing, right? But anyway, let us all wait until the Ford Motor Company reveals something about this new prototype. Meanwhile, if you have an old car that desperately needs a new Volant cold air intake or maybe a Vibrant cold air intake, don’t worry you can have it all by ordering online. Car parts stores are widely found on the net so purchasing one is never a hassle anymore.

Prince Charles Drives a Ford Focus

2007-06-08T22:42:00.000-07:00

The Prince of Wales was spotted yesterday driving a Ford Focus hydrogen-powered Fuel Cell Vehicle (FCV) when he attended the World Environment Day’s first Brighton to London eco rally in the Hampton Court Palace. The prince browsed the different cars that take part on the said rally and he chose the Ford Focus FCV.

The event’s objective was to bring the next generation fuel efficient cars to the capital. The rest of the participants parked all their cars at the Madeira Drive in Brighton last June 5. Ford lead the particular event displaying some of its future and ongoing cars with noted fewer carbon emission.

Two of the Fuel Cell Vehicles which come as hydrogen propelled cars from the Ford Motor Company captured the center stage of the Blue Oval's line up - these are the Ford Explorer FCV and the Focus FCV. The same time these vehicles were displayed at the event was also the same time that the vehicles were first revealed by the American auto maker to the market and the public. Together with the FVC, the Ford Focus Flexifuel cars also joined the event bragging about its low-carbon models which are already out on the market at present.

Quentin Willson, a motoring journalist and an event supporter, drove the Ford FCV models which came all the way from Ford's Advanced Vehicle Research Centre in Aachen, Germany. These vehicles will soon be available in the UK. The center is running the particular automobile as a part on German’s participation in the said program.

The rally ended up in Trafalgar Square. Willson joined the London’s Deputy Mayor Nicky Gavron in welcoming all the participants of the rally.

"Ford and rally organizers Revolve are closely aligned in promoting sustainable transport solutions such as FCVs, hydrogen, biofuels and other options. This rally deepens the understanding of greener motoring - not least among the welcoming party of politicians at Trafalgar Square," said by the Britain chairman of Ford Roelant de Waard.

The Ford Cell Vehicles are all powered by the combination of oxygen and hydrogen plus the water vapor which are all harmless to the environment. Electivity is also used on the car that propels the wheels. These will definitely produce a low emission rates as compared to the conventional cars using petroleum gasoline.

Now that is something good about Ford. I will be doing more research about these car parts: the GMC Yukon catalytic converter and the GMC Yukon cap & rotor kit. These parts are usually found on GMC’s fuel efficient cars. I wonder how they function. So I’ll see you guys soon.

Carl Edwards Finished and Qualified 5th at Dover

2007-06-05T00:34:00.000-07:00

The race at Dover was thrilling as the conference finals between the Cavaliers and the Pistons went underway. Anyway, it was good news for every Ford racing fanatic because Carl Edwards was among the drivers who finished at the top 5 spot at Dover. Edwards qualified 5th as he led the team once again in a brilliant and incomparable performance!

The race brought a lot of intensity to the crowd and all the people who have watched the race around the world including me. I forgot to pick up my Superchips and Nissan wheels at the shop because I was focusing too much on the race. But it was all worth it.

Here are the words that Carl Edwards and the rest of Ford Racing team had to say after the nerve cracking race:

Carl Edwards – No. 99 Office Depot Ford Fusion (qualified 5th): “We did just what we said we were going to do – we ran like a 95-percent lap, and I’m glad I did because it was so loose in. I lifted where I thought was early, and I couldn’t keep it to the bottom. So, luckily, that was a good lap for us. I would’ve loved for it to be about a tenth quicker, but if I ran 100 more laps I couldn’t run one better than that, so I have to be satisfied with it.”

On making a qualifying lap at Dover, he continues: “There’s just such a huge commitment halfway down the straightway of how deep you can drive it into the corner and how quick you can get back in the gas. So, I like qualifying here. It’s fun, if your car’s good. We talked about it on the way here on the plane yesterday, somebody always gets loose and backs in the fence and its incredible the noise it will make.”

Edwards was also asked, “Are you getting a pretty good understanding of the car tomorrow?” and he answers, “Yeah. I drove it one lap last year at Michigan, and I drove it the other day at Rockingham, so I’m still trying to figure out the characteristics. It’s just like the other car last week – I need to get a race or two under me. This is just a great race team.”

Jamie McMurray – No. 26 Crown Royal Ford Fusion (qualified 8th): “It wasn’t bad. We weren’t that good in practice. Larry [Carter, crew chief] made some real good adjustments to the car, and it drove a lot better. I think that will be a top 20, which we were 25th or 30th in practice, so it should be good.”

Robby Gordon – No. 7 Menards/MAPEI Ford Fusion (qualified 33rd): “We were about three-hundredths slower, but my car was just a little bit too free into the middle. We worked on it, made an adjustment to try and tighten it up, and, like I said, it was just a little too free for the first third of the corner.”

2007 Ford Ranger

2007-06-01T00:05:00.000-07:00

It’s cool when you have a vehicle that is reliable, entertaining, safe, comfortable and powerful! And speaking of these qualities, the 2007 Ford Ranger definitely have them! The Ranger is the perfect guide for your adventures and outdoor activities. With all the awesome features equipped in this pickup, you’ll never lose your way.

Features for this vehicle include an AM/FM stereo in-dash 6-CD changer with 4 speakers and MP3 capability although some are given as optional features with all series except the XL. Other items you can find include an auxiliary audio input jack, optional Pioneer® 290-watt Sound System features a 6-disc in-dash CD changer with MP3 capability, auxiliary audio input jack and AM/FM receiver. A center console-mounted 6.5" subwoofer, 5 1/4" polypropylene mid-range speakers with separate 3/4" soft dome tweeters, and 6"x8" dual-cone full-range speakers deliver exceptional reliability. The Personal Safety System®, standard on all Ranger models, includes a Front Passenger Sensing System and dual-stage driver and front passenger airbags. Also standard are a Tire Pressure Monitoring System and the SecuriLock® passive anti-theft ignition system and a lot more.

The 2007 Ford Ranger is a certified tough and economical pickup with efficient transmissions and reliable towing power. In this case, no matter what terrains and obstacles lie ahead, your driving experience will be as exciting as ever! If I’m done fixing my Volvo timing belt and my Volvo vent visors, I would hurriedly try and drive one of these tough and cool rides or maybe I’ll buy one for myself!

Engine specifications:

Engine type: 2.3L I4
Engine electronics: EEC-V
Displacement: 2.3L (140 CID)
Horsepower: (SAE net at rpm) 143 at 5,250
Torque (lb.-ft. at rpm): 154 at 3,750
Compression ratio: 9.7:1
Bore x stroke (in.): 3.44x3.70
Main bearings: 5
Valve lifters: Mechanical non-hydraulic
Fuel delivery: Sequential electronic fuel injection
Recommended fuel: Unleaded
Fuel economy: 24 city/29 highway
Transmission type: 5-speed manual overdrive standard
Engine block material: Aluminum
Cylinder head material: Aluminum

2008 Ford Super Duty Truck: Toughest of the Toughest

2007-05-29T00:12:00.001-07:00

I was enjoying my cup of coffee yesterday morning while browsing the net looking for a Volvo tie rod and Volvo strut mount and, of course, the latest updates in the auto world. When I visited Ford’s website, I checked what’s new in their line-up vehicles. And oh boy, what on earth do we have here? It’s the 2008 Ford Super Duty truck!

From the pictures displayed on the pages, you can tell that it is absolutely tough! I can imagine how powerful it is and I think it can stamp all trucks with its fierceness and authority! I mean, this is a monster unleashed by Ford. But this monster is cool! You can compare it to your hard working dad or a workhorse, just like any other reliable stuff around but with more extra power!

The new F-450 is pickup truck is the most capable and the leading workhorse in America. It provides a top towing capacity with more than 24,000 pounds and a maximum payload of 6,000 pounds! Don’t be deceived by the mean-looking façade because this monster is quiet with the new 6.4-litre Power Stroke® V8 Turbo diesel - indeed it possesses the clean diesel technology.

Engine specifications:

Fuel injection: Sequential electronic
Engine control system: Electronic
Induction system: Specially tuned
Battery: 12-volt; 650-CCA/72-amp
Alternator: 115-amp
Cooling system: Pressurized series flow
Cylinders: 8
Cylinder head material: Aluminum
Block material: Cast iron
Valve operation: Hydraulic roller
Camshaft drive: Variable cam timing
Bore/stroke (in.): 3.55/4.16
Compression ratio: 9.8:1
Horsepower (hp at rpm): 300 at 5000 rpm
Torque (lbs.-ft. at rpm): 365 at 3750 rpm
Recommended fuel: Unleaded/diesel
Transmission: 6-speed manual standard or 5-speed TorqshiftTM automatic optional

Features:

6.4 PowerStroke® diesel
Dual Turbos
Ford Clean Diesel Technology™
Advanced Fuel Injection
TorqueShift™ transmission
Longer rear leaf springs
Higher front GAWRs
High strength front end
Innovative Command
Best-in-class towing
Stowable Bed Extender™
Handy Integrated Tailgate Step
RapidHeat™ Cab Heater
PowerScope® side mirrors

Ford and Volvo Go to India

2007-05-24T23:52:00.001-07:00

Volvo, the Europe’s most famous car maker, is planning to invade India to back up the Ford India Ltd. - an Indian brand that is connected to the Ford Motor Company of the US. Volvo and Ford plans to collaborate to give the Indian car market more quality cars. Ford will handle the supply of mid-size segment entrants while Volvo will handle giving more high-end cars. The Ikon was given as a sample and now, Ford will be doing the Fiesta for the Indian car market.

The Volvo Car India managing director Paul de Voijs told the Business Standard today that, "Future launches in India could be a part of our global synergy with Ford Motor. We could bring in vehicles having shared technologies (platform) with Ford Motor to increase our presence in India." He said that two powerful companies will merge to make quality cars for the Indian car market.

The Volvo C70 as well as the C30 is planned to share a platform with the Ford Focus line up and is seen to be available by next year.

Religare Securities’ analyst Arvind Jain said, "It seems to be a prudent strategy. Both the companies would leverage common technologies and resources to maintain their competitiveness." The venture of the two big car companies is a plain strategy that could prolog the existence in the Indian car market.

Volvo will release its four-door S80 along with its XC90 SUV. These two vehicles is priced at Rs 4.5 million and Rs 6 million respectively. Volvo is expecting these cars to be available on the car market this year.

These cars will all come from other production plants as imported vehicles. The pricing is not specified yet but they say it’s above the end of the A5 segment. Other car parts like Highland mats and Hypertech were all not mentioned whether they are available on the new cars. Let us just all wait and see if the new car will set a fire (or a grand blaze) in the Indian car market.

Ford’s New Flex Expedition

2007-05-23T23:45:00.001-07:00

The Funkmaster Flex's Car Wars TV series will start its new season this coming Sunday on ESPN. And Ford will be one among the sponsors of the new show. Car Wars on TV will be using Ford’s new 2008 Lincoln Navigator as the car which will used by four competing groups. What these groups would be doing is that they will be modifying the new car and the winning team will receive a $50,000 prize.

Funkmaster Flex visited Ford’s Michigan Truck Plant just recently. If you can recall, Ford released a new car at the most recent New York Auto Show and now Ford is building the new vehicle which is going to be renamed the Ford Flex Expedition. This is the reason why the hip hop musician visited the site where his new Flex car will be made.

Yup, the newest SUV from Ford’s line-up will be carrying the Flex name. The new Expedition will be out this coming fall handling a custom-made interior, a bold two-tone paint job as well as 3D carbon body kit. Other specs and prices were not yet revealed, however, it will be out soon so we will just wait for it.

Anyway, online stores are selling quality car parts like headlights,
Magnaflow and Covercraft. So, whenever you are in need for car parts, check out your trusted auto parts website and avail of the latest promo and discounts.

Ford must be perfecting the new car model. I just hope to see a little progress for Ford in terms of its financial status.

Ford Motorsport: Victorious Over Seven Decades

2007-05-23T00:06:00.000-07:00

Ford Motorsport has become known to all of us as one of the best teams to ever participate in motorsport events. I’ve been a witness of some of their triumphant moments in racing and I can say that they were successful for the years that they have joined the games and these years are still counting.

While I was getting some info about Dodge brake pads and the Chevrolet pickup handle relocation kit, I spent some sometime reading on the successful history of Ford Motorsport and what I was reading really caught my interest. By the way, I got the information from ford.co.uk.com and it really gave me the idea of how victorious Ford Motorsport has been from the year 1930 to 2005!

It is awesome knowing that the group started a long time ago and until now, Ford Motorsport continues to make history!

Here are the highlights of Ford Motorsport from 1930 to 2005:

1930s

V8-engined cars twice won the famous Monte Carlo Rally

1950s

Ford made its mark with a stream of wins by six-cylinder Zephyrs
Maurice Gatsonides won the Monte Carlo Rally

1955/1958

Victorious on the East African Safari
Won Britain’s RAC Rally

1960s

The Zephyr was replaced by the light but versatile and rugged Cortina
Won the East African Safari
Success on the Acropolis and RAC Rallies
Roger Clark’s Lotus-engined car narrowly missed out on winning the London-Sydney Marathon
Launch of the Escort and the beginning of Ford’s finest chapter in rallying history, winning the Circuit of Ireland, Tulip, Austrian Alpine, Acropolis and Scottish rallies in an eight-week period and then Finland’s 1000 Lakes Rally to help Ford secure the World Rally Championship for Makes
Ford won the world title again

1970s

The Escort RS1600 took over from the Twin-Cam
Special overhead-valve engined cars dominated the 16,000-mile London to Mexico World Cup Rally, finishing first, with Finn Hannu Mikkola taking victory, as well as third, fifth sixth and eighth.
Mikkola won the East African Safari and Clark entered the history books of British rallying by winning the RAC Rally

1973/1974

Timo Mäkinen won RAC Rally
Timo Mäkinen won RAC Rally in the new-style Mk2 Escort RS1800.
Clark won RAC Rally and with Mikkola and Sweden’s Bjorn Waldegard spearheaded the official Ford team’s international charge over the course of the next few years as the Escort became virtually unbeatable
Waldegard won three punishing world championship rallies: the East African Safari, the Acropolis and RAC events.
Escort swept the board in the championship, winning the manufacturers’ title and the drivers’ crown for Waldegard, who edged out team-mate Mikkola

1980s

From turbocharged RS200 to Ford Sierra
Another Finn, Ari Vatanen, continued Ford’s success with victories in Greece,
Brazil and Finland the first, and only, privateer to win the world drivers’ title.
The introduction of the turbocharged RS200, which won 19 international rallies in the season before more rule changes led to the introduction of the Ford Sierra
Frenchman Didier Auriol scored his maiden world victory on the Tour of Corsica

1990s

The RS Cosworth and the final Escort World Rally Car make way for the Focus

1990/1991

The new turbocharged four-wheel Escort, the RS Cosworth won in Spain

1992

The Cosworth won in Britain
Five world championship rounds won by François Delecour, Miki Biasion and Franco Cunico. Delecour finished second in the drivers’ championship and Ford were runners-up in the manufacturers’ series
Victorious in 25 European Championship rounds, as well as national titles in Africa and Austria, Switzerland and Portugal, Finland and Turkey
Final world rally success came in Indonesia in with Carlos Sainz at the wheel
Ford evolved the Escort World Rally Car. Sainz drove it to victory in Greece and Indonesia as the team finished second in the manufacturers’ championship
The end of the season marked the end of the Escort’s career as an official Ford-entered rally car with a remarkable 46 world class wins
Introduction of the Focus as the most technically-advanced rally car ever built, winning only its third event, the demanding Safari Rally, with Colin McRae, who also won the following Rally of Portugal

2000

The wins continue into the new century
McRae won in Spain and Greece. Sainz victorious in Cyprus. Ford runners-up in the manufacturers' championship

2001/2002

The team was second again as McRae and Sainz get another six world rally wins
Introduction of a radical and revolutionary new Focus RS World Rally Car which took rally car design and technology to new frontiers. The car was a huge success and Markko Märtin claimed victories in Greece and Finland
Markko Märtin won Rally Mexico. A new evolution was unveiled in April 2004 on Rally New Zealand and Märtin took that to victory on the final two asphalt events of the season in Corsica and Spain
50th consecutive points finish in the FIA WRC. Since 1973 and 411 world rallies, no other manufacturer has scored in more than 36 consecutive events.

Ford Racing's Robby Gordon on the Hot Seat

2007-05-19T00:48:00.000-07:00

Ford Racing fans, here is another NASCAR news for all of you. While we are waiting for the exciting NASCAR Nextel Cup all-star event this coming weekend, let us lend our ears, or I mean read the views of one of Ford Racing's promising driver, Robby Gordon regarding some
NASCAR issues. Gordon currently drives the No. 7 Menards/MAPEI Ford Fusion equipped with quality Ford performance parts, just like Mopar's Dodge Avenger performance parts.

This interview was taken during the Nextel Wake-Up Call press conference that took place at the Lowe's Motor Speedway. Thanks to Ford Racing's website (www.fordracing.com) for this one.

CAN YOU TELL EVERYONE WHAT YOU SAID ABOUT THE OFFER YOU HAVE ON THE TABLE IF YOU WIN THE NEXTEL FAN VOTE?
"I came up with an idea a couple of weeks ago and I think Kyle came up with it a year ago and it's like, Hey, I'll just give my money away. But then I started hearing a lot of other guys say, 'We'll give our money away, too.' But then I started thinking, 'They can't give their money away without asking their owner. They can only give 30 percent or 40 percent or 50 percent of their money away.' There's a pretty big difference there."

IS THERE AN ADVANTAGE TO RUNNING THE OPEN? WE HAVEN'T SEEN THAT PAY OFF AS MUCH AS YOU WOULD THINK.
"I think Kasey [Kahne] finished last year. I think the series is just so competitive right now that if you can gain a little more track time it obviously helps us. Provided that we have good communication with the crew chief of what went on during that race, track time, it's already gonna be dark by that point, so it should be able to relay back to the all-star race as well."

THE MONEY FOR THE CHALLENGE IS BIG BUT NOT NEARLY AS BIG FOR THE OPEN. IF THIS RACE WERE TO EVER LEAVE CHARLOTTE, HOW HARD WOULD IT BE FOR A TEAM TO TRAVEL AND RUN THE OPEN?
"Obviously, the money is a lot different. How do I say it, the money wouldn't even pay for the engine or the tires. It doesn't pay for it the way it is right now. I'm pretty sure my contracts don't require me to run the all-star race. As a matter of fact, I'm positive they don't, but we do it because it's here in Charlotte, it's easy to do and it's track experience that you can take into the Coca-Cola 600 the next weekend. As a matter of fact, I know all of my contracts are for the 36 Nextel Cup races."

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON TERRY LABONTE TESTING FOR THE BUSCH RACE IN MONTREAL?
"I think Terry, that's probably the right thing; especially if he's not gonna run the race. Maybe he's gonna run the race, I don't know, but information is so important. We get such little information these days because of the testing that goes on – the little information you're able to gather with the seven Nextel Cup tests and the tracks you can't go to and really gather any information for the cars that we have, it'll definitely help RCR for gears and stuff like that, but we've been road racing for years and you can look at how many feet their straightaways are and how sharp the corners are and pretty much nail the gear to within 50-100 RPM anyway."

DOES THE OPEN GET THE CREDIT IT DESERVES?
"When you look at the guys in it, it's obviously competitive. You've got Carl Edwards and Clint Bowyer and Montoya and Kenny (Wallace). The list is long of the guys that are in the Open. This series, you take the Hendrick cars out of the car of tomorrow deal, back on the mile-and-a-half tracks like this before, it was fairly competitive last year. There was 10 or 15 guys that could have won races on mile-and-a-half race tracks, and I think the car of tomorrow, even though the field is tighter, it's separated a little bit more.

"Those guys have dominated the first five events, but it's gonna be a tough race. It'll be exciting. Everybody will enter the Open or race the Open different than they'll race the All-Star Challenge because you have to use that car for the All-Star Challenge, so you have to make sure you have clean fenders on it and it's still aerodynamically sound.

"We've seen for years here them wrecking across the finish line for the win. If you wreck across the finish line for the win in the Open, all of the information you just learned is out the door, so why do that? So I don't think you're gonna see as exciting of a race in the Open as you will see in the All-Star Challenge because of that."

ON JEFF BURTON'S RISE AND BEING IN THE ALL-STAR CHALLENGE.
"I think that shows how much a team has to do with the performance of an individual. One guy doesn't make a team perform."

Ford Racing: More About Carl Edwards

2007-05-16T23:32:00.000-07:00

Carl Edwards, driver of the No. 60 Ford Fusion sponsored by Scotts-Miracle Gro has dominated the practice test in preparation for the upcoming CARQUEST Auto Parts 300 race.

During the test race, Edwards' No. 60 Ford Fusion was the fastest machine among the 32
race cars. His car, the No. 60 Ford Fusion equipped with aerodynamic parts similar to BMW spoiler reached a maximum speed of 179.390 mph. Carl Edwards commented: "Our car is really good and I think it is going to get a little bit faster as the night goes on. Hopefully we can stay on top because everyone is closing in. I think we had a really good set-up to start with, so we were really fast yesterday. But now everyone is working on their stuff and getting faster."

If you don’t know Carl Edwards, check out this trivia about him:

* Edwards is most popular among fans for celebrating his wins by doing a backflip off his car (or truck), a style of celebration he took from sprint car driver Tyler Walker. Seizing on the popularity of Edwards' trademark celebrations, Ford has recently ran several "Overactive Adrenaline Disorder" commercials featuring a "young Carl" performing backflips in his baby crib, off of a couch, and off a doctors exam table.

* Edwards previously dated Olympic gold medal-winning swimmer Amanda Beard, who was a NASCAR fan long before she and Edwards began dating. While they were dating, she got him into an Olympic Training Center for help to perfect his trademark backflip.

* During the week of the Auto Club 500, Edwards participated in taping of the Fox television series 24, where he played Homeland Security Agent Jim Hill.

* Edwards made an appearance on the February 22, 2006 episode of The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson. Ferguson produced the cover of the February issue of ESPN magazine which featured a bare-chested photo of Edwards. Joking that Edwards' nipples seemed far apart, Ferguson suggested this was due to the high rates of speed at which Edwards often traveled.

* Edwards was ranked #1 in the 2006 Sporting News pre-season poll

* Following the 2006 NEXTEL Cup race at Pocono, where he was caught in a wreck intentionally caused by fellow driver Tony Stewart, Edwards called Stewart a moron. Stewart returned this by suggesting Edwards was the "Eddie Haskel" of NASCAR. Both drivers later apologized for their comments.

* Edwards is a first cousin once removed to fellow NASCAR driver Ken Schrader and it was, in fact, Schrader who furiously told Edwards early in his racing career to get dirt track experience before going to Cup; he took the advice.

* He is not featured in the video game NASCAR 07, despite winning 4 races prior to its release, and finishing third in the NEXTEL Cup points in 2005. He is one of the few drivers who has opted not to sign his name and likeness over to Electronic Arts, the makers of the NASCAR 07 game. He has instead lent his name to a series of plug-and play video games made by Excalibur Electronics. Both the 8-bit and 16-bit version of Carl's racing game feature his signature backflip, shown whenever Carl's character wins a race. He has also endorsed a hand held LCD game, which is co-branded with NASCAR and is highlighted by red #99 Carl Edwards graphics.

* Off the track, Carl has been busy promoting his new record label, Back40 Records, a company he started with a high school friend back in Columbia, MO. Back40 Records is an Independent record label searching for new talent in the Mid-MO area.

Ford, Is This Another Job Cut?

2007-05-16T00:54:00.000-07:00

Of course, it is. Ford has decided to close another plant - the Cleveland-area casting plant which was treated as a client by the Ashtabula County manufacturers on the area. Ford officials announced the closure. This definitely means job cuts for the employees.

The Ford Motor Company announced to discontinue the operation of their production plant in Brook Park this 2009. The company announced that over 1,200 employees will be eliminated. Ford also plans to close the engine manufacturing plant in the area after a year. The Ford Racing cold air intake is one among the car parts made in the mentioned facility.

"It doesn't appear to have an impact,” the executive director of Growth Partnership for Ashtabula County Joseph Mayernick said. He also added that the news should not be a hindrance to those industries that manufacture Ford parts. Ford is taking some of their parts like the Centerforce clutch and the Corsa exhaust from some companies including the CSP in Ohio particularly at the Conneaut. There are almost 200 people working in that area which specializes in plastic parts and fiberglass used in making Ford cars.

Dave Murtha, the director of operations of CSP, said, “The Brook Park situation will not affect business at his plant. There will be no effect whatsoever. We've experienced no setbacks."

The domestic auto maker decided to close the said plant which started its operation in 1952. The production plant is actually where the engine parts of Ford is made. But because it has been several years that engine parts have been stagnant, Ford has not found any reason to continue its operations there. Ford is manufacturing the V6 3L engine and if the demand for this engine increases next year, they will open the production plant again.

"It doesn't appear to have had an impact," said Mayernick. He said the relationship between the Ford Motor Company and the Ashtabula County businesses should not be affected because of the plan to close the Cleveland-area casting plant.

2008 Ford Mustang: In the Pink

2007-05-14T11:38:00.000-07:00

Ford is intensifying its support of Susan G. Komen for the Cure with its Warriors in Pink campaign this year. The Detroit automaker has announced recently that it will be offering a very special addition of its iconic Mustang – this time however, the new 2008 Mustang comes in the Warriors in Pink package.

Produced in a limited edition of 2,500 units, the Mustang with Warriors in Pink package is the first-ever Ford vehicle designed exclusively in support of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Ford is already on its 13th year of support for Komen for the Cure, dedicating more than $90 million in cash and in-kind donations to save lives and end breast cancer.

Launched in 2006, the Ford Warriors in Pink campaign recognizes the strength and courage it takes to deal with the everyday challenges of fighting breast cancer. Aside from this limited edition Mustang the Warriors in Pink also has a collection of apparel for men and women which feature important symbols signifying the message of hope, strength and unity in the commitment to the fight against breast cancer. This year, three new Warrior symbols are introduced, representing the Warrior spirit in each one of us, from power and courage to strength and compassion. All apparel is available on Fordcares.com and 100 percent of net proceeds will be donated to Komen for the Cure. More than $1 million of merchandise was sold last year.

The Mustang with Warriors in Pink package will be available on V-6 Premium Array Coupe or Convertible models, and will add to the cars’ exterior car parts as well as to the interior a pink ribbon and Pony fender badge, pink Mustang rocker tape striping, charcoal leather seats with pink stitching, aluminum-spoke steering wheel with pink stitching and charcoal floormats with pink ribbon and contrast stitching.

The Mustang with Warriors in Pink package, which includes the Mustang Pony package, will be available in three colors: black, metallic silver and performance white.

"Ford has been a long-standing supporter of Komen for the Cure and this year we've designed a special product to help raise awareness and find a cure for breast cancer," said Connie Fontaine, Ford Customer Experience Manager. "For the 2007 campaign, Ford truly breaks the mold by creating the first-ever Ford 2008 Mustang with Warriors in Pink package to support Komen for the Cure. With the addition of the new Mustang to Ford's already powerful line of Warriors in Pink gear available at Fordcares.com, we plan to have yet another successful year as we provide our support in the fight against breast cancer."

Mustang is one of the greatest automotive sales success stories of all time. Nearly one out of every two sports cars sold in America is a Mustang, and Mustang remains one of the hottest-selling cars in America. It's also America's best-selling convertible.

The limited-edition 2008 Mustang with Warriors in Pink package is currently available for consumers to pre-order through their local Ford dealer. The Mustangs are set to arrive in dealerships mid-summer. Sales from the Warriors in Pink package will help raise funds for Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Ford's goal is to donate more than half a million dollars through these sales in addition to other fundraising efforts.

Ford to Drop Australian Luxury Models

2007-05-10T17:25:00.000-07:00

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, one of Australia's leading online publications has recently reported that Ford Motor Company's Australian arm is planning to put the Ford Fairlane and LTD luxury sedans out of production. Right. Tom Gorman, President of Ford Australia announced this in a recent media briefing. He said: "A significant decline in sales of vehicles in the upper large segment over the past few years has meant that local production of long wheelbase variants, primarily for domestic sale only, is currently no longer sustainable. "

Gorman added: "The emotion of this decision has been very difficult. Sometimes the hard decision and the right decision are the same one. The Fairlane nameplate has been a key part of the Ford line-up since 1967. When the ZA Fairlane... created a whole new market segment in the process."

The Ford Fairlane and LTD has been Australia's flagship model for years and most Australian drivers own one. But why do Ford Australia is planning to discontinue the two of its most popular vehicle models?
According to Ford Australia, they will roll out the last models of Ford Fairlane and LTD later this 2007 or early in 2008. Now its official. The Ford Fairlane and LTD nameplates is headed six feet under. Perhaps Ford Australia will focus in producing quality non-luxury cars, trucks, and SUVs with affordable replacement auto parts unlike Mercedes-Benz models with luxury parts like Mercedes cargo mat.

Meanwhile, Ford Australia is planning to release a new model named Orion to be launch in the 1st quarter of 2008 so watch out for it.

Ford Provides Mom’s Favorite Features

2007-05-09T23:56:00.001-07:00

I am very excited for the upcoming mother’s day celebration this weekend! I am thinking of the best present that I can give to my mom - something special that she truly deserves. I, like most of you, are close to our moms. Sometimes she’s there for us as our best friend and she has been our loving guardian ever since we were born. She has been there when we were first to learn how to crawl and walk and talk. We have to give the best so that we have to show our gratitude and love for our dear mothers this weekend and show them how special they are in our lives.

So, you came up with something special for your mom? Me? Not yet, but I was thinking of giving her a Ford pickup cowl cover or a Ford pickup oil filter relocation kit. Nah, just kidding!

But Ford has it! Yes, I’m serious. Inline with the Mother’s Day Celebration this coming weekend, Ford and Lincoln cars, trucks, crossovers and SUVs have prepared the top10 mom-friendly features from these vehicle segments. A cool surprise to all moms out there, isn’t it? Through this way, moms will feel some special care and enjoy the fun and entertainment that their cars have to offer.

So let’s distinguish the top ten mom-friendly features from Ford and Lincoln cars, trucks, crossovers and SUVs:

Headrest DVD Entertainment System: When we are stuck in a middle of a traffic jam, like when we were kids, we always ask our moms “Are we there yet?” We get bored of the traffic and sometimes it irritates children and babies alike, so they cry and cry. Whew! Pretty annoying scenario! That’s why DVD players are featured in Ford and Lincoln vehicles to keep us entertained while waiting for normal traffic to resume and for us to be energized while we haven’t reached our destination yet. It would also keep us from getting bored during long or short drives. In this manner, your mom can drive without much worries and with her attention directed straight right on the road and not on those fussing kids.

Reverse Sensing System: With the assistance of the Reverse Sensing System alerts, drivers can detect if there are objects in the vehicle’s path when slowly driving in reverse. This one is also great in helping moms drive thru a bike-filled driveway or navigate the car in the toughest and worst parking lots with no difficulty at all. This feature has innovative and ultrasonic sensors that are situated at the rear bumper to noticeably observe when things are behind the car. This feature is available on the Ford Taurus, Taurus X, Edge, Escape Explorer, Sport Trac, Expedition, F-150, F-Series Super Duty and the E-Series as well as on the Lincoln MKX and the Navigator.

MP3 Audio Input Jack: This very entertaining feature will definitely make your moms shake their body to the beat of the group. You can make your personal family soundtrack while traveling across the country. Shake it, shake it mama!

CenterSlide™ Second Row: The Ford Expedition and the Lincoln Navigator allows moms to reach for their kids or stuffs at the second row or the middle section with easiness and manageability. The middle section of the second row moves forward up to 27.9 cm or 11 inches.

Power Liftgate: This feature is available on the Ford Expedition and Taurus X; the Lincoln MKX and Navigator. It lifts and lowers by pushing the button on a keyless-entry key fob remote. The accessible power liftgate raises and lowers with the push of a button on the remote keyless-entry key fob. It makes shopping for moms very easy!

PowerFold™ Seats: You can fit all the stuff you need because there are a lot of spaces when the class-exclusive PowerFold seats are folded with a click of the button! Ford’s available class-exclusive PowerFold™ third-row seats provide extra room for stuffs, baggage, gear, and all other items you may have with you. It is offered in the Ford Explorer, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator models.

Memory Seats: This is one feature they will all love! When moms share their vehicle with their driving kids or any member of the family, the feature allows the driver to save and keep their ideal seat locations to memory and there’s no need to reset whenever they come into the vehicle again. The Ford Taurus X, Ford Taurus, Edge, Explorer, Expedition and the F-150 has this as well as the Lincoln MKZ, Lincoln Mark LT, Lincoln MKX, and the Navigator.

Compartmentalized Centre Console: This feature has a handy portable divider which is a standard centre console found in the Ford Edge and the Lincoln MKX crossovers that offer several organized techniques to hold a range of devices such as cell phones, napkins/tissues, hand bags and even DVDs and laptops. It is also featured in the new Ford Escape and Escape.

DVD-Based Navigation System: Moms who have the “always on the move” attitude will surely love Ford’s DVD-based Navigation System. The system features:

a 6.5-inch-wide screen (16.5 cm)
recites turn-by-turn travel directions in English, French or Spanish
Helps find spots of interest like gas stations, ATMs and restaurants.
Features a six-disc in-dash CD/MP3 player and AM/FM radio.

Conversation Mirrors: This feature helps moms to have a look-out eye at the back of their heads to monitor passengers at the second and third row.

Now you have your gift ideas. I’d also like to take this opportunity to shout out Happy Mother’s Day to all loving mothers around the world!

Ford Celebrates 75 Year Anniversary Of Deuce Coupe

2007-05-07T22:03:00.000-07:00

Ford is planning to celebrate the anniversary of its Deuce Coupe of being in the industry for 75 years. And the company is planning on celebrating the occasion by doing a party. The party will be on August 9-12 and will be held at the Greenfield Village where they are going to celebrate the two huge contributions of Ford to the automotive industry - the flathead V8 and the '32 Ford as well.

The Ford Motor Company plans a little swap meet between the models '32 Fords and the Ford car which are powered by the powerful flathead V8. This engine source is also used on some other relevant models. A revelation of classic cars will also happen on the August 11, Saturday which will be held in the Dearborn Proving Grounds test track. And on Sunday, 11th day of August, the Edsel Ford estate will all be capped. Ford parts, of course, and other car parts are installed on the said vehicles.

The event will be attended by Ford’s highest ranking officials including Edsel Ford, the honorary chairm, and, of course, the Ford Chief Executive Officer Alan Mulally. You can also visit the official Ford Website on the event so you will know more details about the event. The website is at the 75 Web site.

It’s good news for Ford that despite the hard times being encountered at present time, they still have time to celebrate important events.

Ford Global Suppliers Given Fifty-Five 2006 World Excellence Awards

2007-05-02T00:39:00.000-07:00

We are not familiar with the people responsible for Ford’s success during the past years. We are even unaware who distributes and delivers the manufactured Ford parts and all of the other stuff. But this time, the Ford Motor Company has recognized all of the right people and groups so much so that we’ll be aware about who they really are.

Ford has recognized the excellent job carried out by their global suppliers across the globe. The Fifty Five 2006 World Excellence Awards were presented last April 17, 2007 at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn Michigan. Fifty five of its worldwide dealers have been acknowledged for their outstanding performance last year, and the Ford Motor Company showed their appreciation thru this wonderful event.

The World Excellence Awards is not only given to suppliers who achieves the highest delivery and quality and levels of cost but being aware of the diverse values, cultures, ideas and values of the hundreds and thousands of people they provide work for.

"We appreciate the contributions that these award-winning suppliers have made to Ford Motor Company, and applaud them for their hard work and dedication. Their efforts have positively impacted customer satisfaction," said Tony (Thomas K.) Brown, the Senior Vice-President for the company’s Global Purchasing team.

“Ford and its suppliers are working together to reach their goals.” This was according to the keynote speaker who is the Ford Motor Company President and Chief Executive Officer Alan Mulally.

"Together, we are one team working on one plan with one goal in mind - build the products people really want to create profitable growth for everyone associated with our wonderful Ford Motor Company," Mulally said. "We can ensure a viable Ford Motor Company and a vibrant automobile industry if we go forward together."

Here are the lists of recipients of the Ford Fifty Five 2006 World Excellence Awards:

Suppliers earning the Gold Award (Quality, Cost & Delivery) are:

ArvinMeritor, Inc.; Almussafes, Spain - Exhaust Systems
Autoliv BKI S.A.; La Pobla de Vallbona, Spain - Air Bags
Brose Fahrzeugteile GmbH & Co. KG; Tondela, Portugal - Latches
Durakon Industries; Lapeer, Michigan USA - Bed Liners
Ewie Co., Inc.; Ann Arbor, Michigan USA - Cutting Tools & Abrasives
Faurecia Interior Systems; Koln, Germany - Door Modules
Fujikura Ltd.; Yamagata, Japan - Wiring Harnesses
Intier Automotive Seating; Eastleigh, England - Seats
Intier Automotive Seating; Excelsior Springs, Missouri USA - Seats
Johnson Controls, Inc.; Shelbyville, Kentucky USA - Seats
Lear Corporation; Genk, Belgium - Seats
Ronal Polska Sp. z o.o.; Walbrzych, Poland - Wheels
Stena Gotthard AB; Goteborg, Sweden - Recycling & Environmental Services
Superior Industries International, Inc.; Pittsburg, Kansas USA - Wheels
TRW Polska Sp. z o.o.; Czestochowa, Poland - Air Bags

Suppliers earning the Silver Award (Quality, Cost & Delivery) are:

Aristeo Construction Company; Livonia, Michigan USA - Construction
Autoliv B.V. & Co. KG; Dachau, Germany - Air Bags
Autoliv North America; Columbia City, Indiana USA - Air Bags
Brose Fahrzeugteile GmbH & Co. KG; Saarwellingen, Germany - Door Modules
Brose Fahrzeugteile GmbH & Co. KG; Santa Margarida, Spain - Door Modules
Continental Automotive Mexicana S.A. de C.V.; Silao, Mexico - Brake Assemblies
Dalphi Metal Internacional, S.A.; Silla, Spain - Steering Wheels
Delphi Corporation; New Castle, Indiana USA - Steering Columns
Denso Manufacturing Athens Tennessee, Inc.; Athens, Tennessee USA - Emissions Sensors
Dr. Franz Schneider, S.A.; Valencia, Spain - Instrument Panels
Elanders Infologistics Vast AB; Goteborg, Sweden - Print Management
Ewie Canada Co.; Windsor, Ontario, Canada - Cutting Tools & Abrasives
Faurecia Interior Systems; Valencia, Spain - Door Modules
Flex-N-Gate Battle Creek; Battle Creek, Michigan USA - Stampings
Grupo Antolin-Dapsa , S.A.; Burgos, Spain - Seats
Grupo Antolin-Logistik Deutschland, GmbH; Koln, Germany - Headliners
Hayes Lemmerz Autokola, A.S.; Ostrava, Czech Republic - Wheels
Hayes Lemmerz International - Frenos, S.A. de C.V.; Apodaca, Mexico - Brake Assemblies
Hella Autotechnik, Ltd.; Mohelnice, Czech Republic - Lamp Assemblies
International Automotive Components; Koln, Germany - Instrument Panels
Johnson Controls, Inc.; Hudson, Wisconsin USA - Seats
Latcha + Associates; Farmington Hills, Michigan USA - Creative Services
Lear Corporation; St. Thomas, Ontario, Canada - Seats
Linde Creighton Ltd.; West Midlands, England - Forklift Trucks
Litens Automotive GmbH; Gelnhausen, Germany - FEAD Systems
Magna Closures; Pisa, Italy - Latches
Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.; Nagano, Japan - Audio & Navigation Systems
P&A Industries, Inc.; Findlay, Ohio USA - Stampings
Rehau AG + Co.; Viechtach, Germany - Spoilers
Sanden Corporation; Gunma, Japan - A/C Compressors
Sanyo Automotive, Inc.; Penang, Malaysia - Audio
Stenco Construction Company, L.L.C.; Livonia, Michigan USA - Construction
Tenneco Inc.; Valencia, Spain - Exhaust Systems
Thyssenkrupp Presta Ilsenburg GmbH; Ilsenburg, Germany - Camshafts

Suppliers earning the Recognition of Achievement Awards are:

Autoliv Sverige AB - New Consumer-Focused Technology
Denso Corporation - Durability and Reliability Performance
Johnson Controls, Inc. - Corporate Responsibility
Kelly Services, Inc. - Diversity and Community Service
Lear Corporation - Consumer-Driven 6-Sigma
Novelis Inc. - New Consumer-Focused Technology

Ford Starts Production in New Nanjing Facility

2007-04-27T18:01:00.000-07:00

Ford’s new joint venture engine production facility, Chang’an Ford Mazda Engine Company Ltd. (CFME) in Nanjing, China commenced its production line with a series of engines. The Nanjing assembly and manufacturing plants will supply production operations for Ford and Mazda vehicles in China. Execs representing the three CFME partners signed a joint contract in April 2005 and then five months later broke ground for the plant, which is located in Nanjing's Jiang Ning Economic and Technological Development Zone.

The CFME characterizes an integral progression in Ford’s long-term vision and commitment for the growth of the Chinese market. Mei-Wei Cheng, chairman and CEO of Ford Motor China, Ltd. claimed. “This world-class facility and its state-of-the-art production technologies will push the industry benchmark higher in China, and help bolster the future development and expansion of Ford Motor Company and our partners in the China market”.

The partnership deal is Ford’s latest deployment approach to continue its pace in the expanding automotive market. CFME is actually one of the largest and first-class engine manufacturing plants in China. It has an immense 350,000-unit annual production facility which comprises of three major plants for machining, casting and assembly. There are five primary components of the motor that are being manufactures including the cylinder block, cylinder head, crankshaft, camshaft and connecting rod (this include those Ford tie rod ends).

The CFME’s BZ series engine is one of the world’s finest engines which capture Mazda’s latest engine cues and manufacturing methods. The BZ series engine espouses a modern aluminum cylinder head and block, intake VCT (variable cam timing), plastic intake manifold, tumble swirl control valve (TSCV) and multi-point electronic fuel injection.

The innovative features cater to the improvement of the engine’s performance which enhances more road power, better fuel economy, noise reduction, lessened harmful exhausts and meets the required Chinese government standards.

Ford Gives Hella Excellence Award

2007-04-24T23:41:00.000-07:00

The World Excellence Awards is given by the Ford Motor Company each year to very deserving companies who have certainly made a grand contribution to the industry and to all other individuals as well. And for this year, Hella takes home the grand award making the company win the award three years in a row.

The company’s subsidiary which is based in Mohelnice, Czechoslovakia, Hella Autotechnik, also takes home the Silver Award for the year 2006. And according to Ford, such was the decision reached for Hella Autotechnik has been doing really well when it comes to costs, logistics, as well as quality of their products and services. For this year, the company has given out 34 Silver Awards, six awards giving recognition to businesses, groups, and individuals, and 15 Gold Awards.

It can also be remembered that lat year, Hella Electronics Corp. was the one who took home the coveted award while Hella Autotechnik, again, takes home the Silver Award.

Hella’s complete name is Hella KGaA Hueck and Co., and it is a supplier of lighting and electronic systems for the auto industry and its market is simply not constrained in the US or in Europe alone but it already has created a global market. This company also is the one behind the development and manufacture of such lighting and electronics systems. Some of the products created by this company include vehicle models, electric systems for vehicles, assistance systems for drivers, as well as air conditioning systems. It is also quite known that this company has been providing the industry and the market with products that are not only safe but also do provide comfort for both passengers or drivers.

But this is not where Hella’s accolades end. In fact, it is not a secret that this company is one huge group that under its roof, you can find one of the greatest organizations of aftermarket parts and accessories for automobiles and cars. It has already established name and fame so much so that it now has over a hundred countries where you can find their stores and it still continuing to grow as we speak.

Kudos Hella!

Ford’s 10 Top Green Initiatives

2007-04-19T19:36:00.000-07:00

Almost everybody is going green and the Ford Motor Company surely would not be left behind on such matters. And so, as part of the celebration of Earth Day which falls this 22nd of April, the company has set out their top ten list of their green initiatives.

1. Use of sustainable fabric. An example for this one would be the 2008 Ford Escape vehicle which is the very first vehicle in the US to come with 100% recycled fabric which was used on the seats. The fabric is created by Interface Fabrics, Inc. and makes use of post-industrial waste.

2. Leader in fuel efficient six speed transmission. At present, the Ford Motor Company’s Ford, Lincoln and Mercury brands now have fifteen available models using such kind of transmission system.

3. Ford introduces first clean diesel in heavy duty pickup segment. The company is already a leader in the industry in this matter for its 2008 Ford Super Duty pickup truck now uses the very first clean diesel engine unit.

4. Sustainable landscaping preserves environment and looks good. The company has already set out 200 acres which would be used for sustainable landscaping. There would be wildflowers and fields and natural prairies to be set up on these large pieces of land.

5. First two-time winner of EPA’s Energy Star Award. The company has already earned the respect of the US EPA for it has already been awarded the 2007 Energy Star Part of the Year Award in Energy Management.

6. Ford Escape and Ford Focus are more than 80% recyclable. Ford has dismantlers as well as shredders which take apart salvaged vehicles. The materials are then reused and remanufactured and the Escape and Focus already make use of such materials.

7. Paint fumes become fuel at Michigan Truck Plant. What is interesting about the company’s Fumes-to-Fuel system is that it burns up the pain fumes which then produces electricity that is used in their Michigan Truck Plant.

8. Keeping cool with geothermal cooling system. The company’s plant in Lima is not cooled off using air conditioners or the like. What they use is cold water taken from some limestone quarries and this reduces the emission of harmful gases as well as it keeps the environment cleaner than before.

9. Police go green with 2008 Crown Victoria Interceptor. At present, the 2008 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor is the very first and the only vehicle used as a police fleet.

10. World’s Largest Green Roof. And that is according to the Guinness Book of World Records. And the largest belongs to the company’s truck plant in Dearborn and it holds the title as the World’s Largest Living Roof.

Mitsuoka Props Ford Mustang

2007-04-18T18:53:00.000-07:00

Who better to tune Nissan-based vehicles but the Japanese tuning specialist Mitsuoka? Surprisingly, the tuner’s attention is focused on an unlikely donor: the Ford Mustang. The convertible has been spruced up with odd-looking exterior car parts. It seems the Japanese master body builder has increased the level of brashness several notches higher.

Mitsuoka is a small Japanese automobile company which builds modern Japanese cars to resemble British vehicles of the 1950s and 1960s. But really, it’s not the same when the company has taken a hit on the Ford Mustang.

Mitsuoka has a penchant on producing bizarre-looking cars. It seems like the folks at Mitsuoka where fed up with all those Nissan-based, Jaguar look-alikes. Here’s what they came up with: a Mustang that looks like a vehicle that’s gone horribly wrong.

Not many details have been released about the revamped Ford Mustang by Mitsuoka. But the sacrilegious modifications of Mitsuoka may not harbor any sympathy from most car buyers. How many times has a car manufacturer or builder worked on a customer’s car only to fall in love with it? Not too many times but Mitsuoka may just do. Superchargers and suspension work may wind up making their way under the Ford Mustang’s sheetmetal.

The Galue convertible is priced at a hefty $64,500.

At the 2007 SAE World Congress…

2007-04-13T23:17:00.001-07:00

Yeah, what about the 2007 SAE World Congress? Have you heard of the FEV Engine Technology Incorporation? It revealed its Powertrain Technology on the said congress. Now that makes sense, right?

The FEV revealed its newest advanced powertrain technology on the recently opened 2007 Society of Automotive Engineers World Congress. The Ford Motor Company also revealed its Lincoln MKS that comes featuring the exclusive Ford part TwinForce turbocharged DI engine.

The domestic automaker and the second larger automaker in the world is dealing with FEV in making a new Turbocharged which will be the engine concept that is capable of direct injection gasoline. If ever it happens, it will be the first time an OEN concept vehicle is displayed at the SAE as a feature technology.

Here are some of FEV Highlights at Booth # 1619 of the SAE World Congress, Cobo Center:

A developmental gasoline/E85 turbocharged direct injection engine that also features variable compression ratio

FEV/EPA/UPS joint project: an actual UPS delivery truck equipped with a hydraulic hybrid system that offers dramatic improvements in fuel economy and performance, compared to the baseline vehicle.

Advanced transmission testing capabilities

FEV's industry recognized benchmarking capabilities, illustrated by a Lexus IS 350 Engine

A new diesel exhaust after treatment concept, coupled to a GEP engine, that offers the potential to retrofit existing state of-the-art engines for future emissions standard compliance.

Diesel-powered Chrysler Sebring demonstrating FEV's advanced diesel engine integration capabilities.

At least not a piece of bad news for Ford. Sure makes me hope that things continue to look up for the company.

Another Fall In Sales For Ford

2007-04-11T23:44:00.001-07:00

The Ford Motor Company is one among the three most influential car makers of the US. And it is just as one among the three that suffers the same littered financial stability. But among the Big Three with GM and DaimlerChrysler, Ford has been the one suffering a much deeper financial crisis.

Since last year, Ford is continuously experiencing a seemingly endless down fall in almost all aspects. Recalls, resigning officers, losing of some production plants, failure to gain profits on rental car fleets, the counterfeited Ford parts and so on are just few among the burdens that add to the company’s slow deteriorating status. Much more if we talk about its failure to sell.

The domestic car maker’s decline on sales started late last year until this very month. Yes, while the Toyota Motor Company and the Honda Motors Corporation as well as some other Asian auto brands are doing well on car sales, domestic car brands are the ones that failed to rock on the US market. GM, Ford and DiamlerChrysler experience decrease sales of cars on the month of March.

The Ford Motor Company received a 9% decrease on sales on its March report. To compare, in March 2006, Ford was able to sell 291,146 units but only 264,975 units were sold last month. Ford also failed to do well on its rental cars fleets as well as its car sales on the outgoing F-Series pickup trucks.

Well, I guess Ford is used to it, but it doesn’t mean they don’t have to do something about it. Good luck Ford.

Ford And Navistar Dispute Hearing Rescheduled To April 4

2007-04-01T22:15:00.000-07:00

If you remember, a dispute between the second largest auto maker, the Ford Motor Company, and Navistar International Corporation was made after the unreasonable price increase on the Super Engine which the car maker uses in its best selling Ford Super Duty trucks. We all know that the Ford Super Duty pick-up truck has it since the first time it was sent to production. But Ford decided to cut the deal with Navistar because of the price increase made by the engine creator.

Because of the absence of the super engine on the truck, the Ford Super Duty did not made a good selling last month, so Ford decided to give the super engine back to where it rightfully belongs. The two large companies have made an agreement that Ford will still receive the super engine by paying the complete amount to Navistar. And soon, the Ford part factory installed super engine will soon be on the truck again.

However, the latest news from Bloomberg tells that the hearing between Ford and Navistar regarding the contract dispute was rescheduled to April 4.

Both Navistar and Ford will be making presentations to the Oakland County Circuit Judge John McDonald so as to resolve the dispute finally. The dispute set had been a threat to Super Duty’s reputation and if the dispute is resolved, the Ford pick up truck may become profitable again and such could help out Ford much when it comes to finances.

The Navistar spokesman Roy Wiley confirmed that the new appointed date for the dispute hearing while the Ford spokeswoman Kristen Kinley said that the delay on the hearing was due to the court’s problems with schedule. The news also said that the hearing will be officiated by a judge and it will be a private briefing.

The dispute all started after Ford sued Navistar because of the failure to pay under the agreement sharing warranty costs. The argument forced the engine supplier to stop the shipment.