Ford's 10 New Year's Resolutions To Help You Drive Smarter, Safer In 2011

• Ford is offering a list of 10 New Year’s safety resolutions and tips so you are ready to start 2011 right where you want to be – safe and in control in the driver’s seat
• Today’s vehicles are filled with features and technologies to help keep you safer – knowing how to use them properly can make you a better driver
• Some features can help minimize injuries in crashes while others can help you avoid dangerous situations all together. MIT researchers say reducing stress can help us all be better drivers

DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 30, 2010 – New Year’s resolutions often revolve around healthy activities, which is why Ford Motor Company is offering 10 ways to help you drive safer in 2011.

Here are our resolutions designed to help make you a smarter, safer driver in the New Year:

1. Click it – even when you’re not worried about a ticket. Always buckle that safety belt – no exceptions. In 2009 alone, the use of safety belts in passenger vehicles saved an estimated 12,700 lives in the U.S., according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Isn’t that statistic alone worth taking that extra two seconds to click on the belt when you travel – and make sure your passengers do, too? In case you do forget, however, you can bet your vehicle’s safety belt reminder systems won’t. Ford’s own BeltMinder™ system has been credited by NHTSA for increasing the buckle-up rate, based on a study done by Ford and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety showing that safety belt usage increased five percent among drivers in vehicles with BeltMinder.

2. Keep your eyes on the road ― not on your cell phone. Avoid unnecessary distractions. According to a 100-car study conducted by Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, driver inattention that may involve looking away from the road for more than a few seconds is a factor in nearly 80 percent of accidents. That means no texting – no message is that important!

3. Read a good book – like your owners’ manual. You know the one; it’s been languishing in your glove compartment. Reading through it will give you some valuable safety information and could even save you some money. For instance, Ford owners might be surprised to find out they don’t need those oil changes every 3,000 miles like they used to. Many new Ford models allow 10,000 miles between oil changes.

4. Scrape that ice, ice baby! On wintry mornings, don’t be one of those people trying to negotiate the roads peering through a tiny hole of visibility in the windshield. That’s just plain dangerous. Leave an additional 5-10 minutes of time in the morning to scrape the snow and ice from your car and give your defroster a chance to do its job.

5. Find out how technology is working to keep you safer. Today’s vehicles are equipped with state-of-the-art technology that can help keep you safer – but it always helps if drivers better understand these features. Take your anti-lock-brake system, for example. Many of us grew up being told to pump the brakes when we hit a patch of ice. That’s not the right technique with four-wheel ABS technology. With ABS, pumping the brakes turns the anti-lock brake system on and off, which decreases braking efficiency and increases your stopping distance. ABS pumps the brakes automatically at a much faster rate than you could do it manually and allows better steering control.

6. Learn how to parallel park – or buy a car that does it for you. Many of us dread the experience of learning to parallel park. Even after years of driving, some still hesitate, faced with the prospect of blocking traffic while negotiating our way into a street-side space. Ford collaborated on a nine-month research project with the MIT New England University Transportation Center that evaluated stressful driving activities – and parallel parking ranked highest. So let this year be the year you master the art of parallel parking – or let technology help. Ford is equipping more vehicles with its innovative Active Park Assist technology – even the new Focus, making it the first vehicle in its class with this new technology. The system uses an ultrasonic-based sensing system and Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) to position the vehicle for parallel parking, calculate the optimal steering angle and quickly steer the vehicle into a parking spot. It eliminates much of the stress. And MIT researchers say reducing stress can make us better drivers.

7. Listen to your mother – sit up straight. Make sure your seat and headrest are adjusted correctly in your vehicle to give you the optimum support. Your legs shouldn’t be overstretched to reach the pedals; you should be able to glance up and out at your mirrors with ease.

8. Check your pressure on all four tires – and the spare. Don’t confuse the “maximum tire pressure” written on the sidewall of the tire with the “recommended tire pressure” provided by the manufacturer – that’s found in that handy owner’s manual you’ve resolved to read and on a sticker conveniently located on the driver’s side door jamb. Also, show your spare you care by storing it in the trunk, where it will return the favor by getting you out of a jam should one of your tires spring a leak.

9. Take a cue from the Boy Scouts ― Be Prepared. You never know what cold weather will bring, so make sure you’re carrying the essentials in case you get stuck or stranded. We recommend your list include water, blankets, granola bars or beef jerky, a few road flares, a good flashlight (and extra batteries), jumper cables, and a bag of kitty litter for traction if you’re stuck in snow.

10. 4, 3, 2 … If you’re counting down to the New Year – stop right here. Remember the two-second rule. The vehicle in front of you should be passing a road marker two seconds before you to assure you’re not tailgating. Some drivers’ manuals even recommend a three-second rule. Remember, the New Year’s goal is to get acquainted with YOUR car, not the one in front of you!

The Electric Lock System for the Knapheide KUV

Mike Soich of Knapheide Manufacturing demonstrates the latest generation of Electric Locking System for the Knapheide KUV and other Knapheide Service Body Products.

This video was taken with a Flip camera in Livermore, CA at a Knapheide dealer event.

The Knapheide Steel Gooseneck Flatbed

This is a new design steel gooseneck flatbed by Knapheide Manufacturing. It is made of diamond plate and smooth steel and has some unique features that are explained by Mike Soich of Knapheide Manufacturing at a Knapheide event in Livermore, CA in October 2010.

Mike refers to this body as a "plug and play" body in that it is full-featured and ready to mount and go. Knapheide is the world's largest truck body manufacturer, headquartered in Quincy, IL. Knapheide has a wide distributor network and ships product all around the world. See more about Knapheide products at http://www.knapheide.com/.

Nor-Cal Mobility Max Van Conversion

This is a presentation by Ken Karasinski of Nor-Cal Mobility of the Ford Full Size Nor-Cal Mobility Max Van.

From their website: "Nor-Cal Vans has engineered an innovative mobility conversion that takes full advantage of the room, the reliability and the strength that only a full-sized van can offer. Our Nor-Cal MAX and PLUS adaptive conversions provide the ultimate in interior headroom and visibility, entryway clearance and interior space, foot room and load-carrying capacity. Ford vans, the most extensively used full-sized vans in the industry, are ideal for a raised roof, raised doors and extensive lowered floor modifications."

This video was made by Terry Minion using a Flip camera at a Nor Cal Ford Truck Club event in October of 2010.

Contact Nor-Cal Mobility at 530-893-1111 in Chico, CA and their website is http://www.norcalmobility.com/.

The RackStar 750 Performance Lift + Load System Demonstration

The is the RackStar 750 Performance Lift and Load System Truck Rack. It is a new, unique product that is quite exciting. The presentation of this prototype is by Pat Owens of Clearline Mfg who makes this product. See more at http://www.therackstar.com/. Video shot at Nor Cal Ford Truck Club event in Woodbridge, CA

Ken Block's Gymkhana THREE, Part 1; The Music Video Infomercial

WWW.DCSHOES.COM/GYM3
After months of anticipation DC and Ken Block are proud to be officially launching the Gymkhana THREE Part! The newest chapter in this successful franchise of Gymkhana videos is: Ken Block's Gymkhana THREE: Part 1; The Music Video Infomercial (feat. The Cool Kids).

This music video features Ken, his Gymkhana Three 2011 Ford Fiesta, Gymkhana style driving, new DC and Ken Block product, with visual and effects -- all set to an original track "Clicking (Gymkhana THREE)" that was written and produced by hip-hop duo The Cool Kids.

The previous gymkhana videos have been viewed by more than 70 million viewers worldwide and have won a number of awards.

For more information on Gym3: Part 1 and Ken's DC apparel, footwear and accessories visit -- www.dcshoes.com/gym3.

Merry Christmas From Folsom Lake Ford Fleet Department



Get Some Serious Work Done In This Medium Duty Bargain

Here's a real work truck and an extreme bargain at the same time. This is a unique body that has a lot of features. Here's all the details:

The chassis is a NEW 2008 Ford F650 Regular Cab. This truck is equipped with the famous Cummins 6.7 liter 200 HP/520 Lb Ft of Torque motor. It is perfectly matched to the Allison 2500 5-speed Automatic Transmission and the 4.88 axle ratio. This truck has a 26,000 GVWR, so does not require a commercial drivers license, and has an 8,500 lb front axle capacity. Other options and features of interest are stainless steel west coast mirrors, chrome front bumper, XL trim package, Air Conditioning, AM/FM stereo radio, hydraulic brakes, front tow hooks, synthetic front and rear wheel lube, EXHAUST BRAKE, backup alarm, jump start stud, 65 gallon fuel tank, AIR SUSPENSION SEAT, Hankook 11r22.5 DLO Tires, Hourmeter, transmission oil temp gauge, fender mounted front turn signals, 130amp alternator, and more. The VIN# is 8V069062.

The body is a Scelzi Paramount 10' 5-7 yard Steel Dump body designed with 10 guage Hi-tensile steel sides and ends with a 3/16" Hi-tensile steel floor with beveled side corners 8" up side walls. It has a double acting tailgate and 8"x3/16" Hi-tensile steel spreader apron, sloped running boards, along with double wall sides with center corrugation. The tailgate is a 6-panel and it also has a 1/4 cab shield, along with an LED lighting package with oval stop and turn lights in rear, corner post, recessed side clearance lights. The hoist is a Rugby class 50 using a direct mount pump with power up and power down. It is equipped with a heavy duty hitch plate, 15-ton pintle hitch and trailer plug.

If that wasn't enough, the body has these options: a ditch-gate or shovel door in the tailgate, a pulltarp to keep your loads covered , a tool box on the passenger side, and electric trailer brake.

This truck is a unique combination of great features, including the Cummins engine, Allison automatic transmission, special options including exhaust brake and of course, the great Scelzi Paramont Dump Body with a host of useful and valuable options. All of this makes an excellent value. Now, to the pricing:

MSRP on this awesome combination is $78,259.00

We've had this truck all to ourselves for too long, and we've really enjoyed having it around, but it is time for it to be shared with the world, so now you can get it for over $20,000.00 off the MSRP, for only

$57,995.00

plus tax, license and doc fees

DEALERS WELCOME!! 

This is many, many thousands below dealer invoice cost.

Give us a call today at 916-353-2000, and ask for the fleet department! Now is a great time!

This vehicle is being offered for sale by Folsom Lake Ford, Folsom, CA. Subject to prior sale.

Ford To Deliver Four 40-MPG Vehicles In 2011, Industry's Broadest Lineup Of Fuel Economy Leaders

• Ford will add its fourth nameplate in 2011 with 40 mpg or higher fuel economy, more than any other full-line manufacturer

• Today, the company already is delivering the broadest vehicle lineup of fuel efficiency leaders: 13 Ford and Lincoln nameplates available in 2011 will lead their sales segments in fuel economy

• Powerful, fuel-saving EcoBoost™ engines arrive in 2011 for Ford F-150, Explorer and Edge – boosting fuel efficiency by up to 20 percent versus larger-displacement engines

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 16, 2010 – Ford Motor Company continues delivering on its promise to make fuel economy affordable for millions of consumers and soon will put on the road its fourth vehicle delivering 40 mpg or more in 2011 – more than any other full-line automaker.

In addition, the company today has 13 vehicles, including cars, utilities and crossovers, in the U.S. that lead their sales segments in fuel economy – a number no other automaker matches.

“We are bringing customers the most fuel-efficient product portfolio in Ford’s 107-year history, and customers are taking notice,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. “From sports cars and hybrids to SUVs and pickups, Ford is delivering the broadest range of fun-to-drive products that are among the industry’s best in fuel economy.”

Three 2011 models achieve at least 40 mpg – Fiesta SE with SFE package (40 mpg highway), Fusion Hybrid and Lincoln MKZ Hybrid (41 mpg city). Early next year, the all-new 2012 Focus is expected to join Ford’s 40-mpg club.

No other automaker offers four nameplates with 40-mpg ratings, according to the 2011 EPA Fuel Economy Guide.

“Ford’s drive for fuel economy is paying off for millions of customers who benefit from the largest-ever company investment made several years ago to develop new engines, transmissions, hybrid systems and EcoBoost engine technology,” said Barb Samardzich, Ford vice president, Powertrain Engineering. “The best news of all? Today’s customers can choose how they would like their fuel economy, with the freedom in the Ford lineup to select which type of fuel-efficient, fun-to-drive vehicle they prefer.”
Today, Ford’s fuel economy leaders include:

• Ford Fiesta: The combination of a 120-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder and available six-speed dual-clutch transmission delivers best-in-class 40 mpg on the highway, topping Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit by 4 mpg and 5 mpg, respectively
• Ford Mustang V6: Its high-revving 305-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 engine and six-speed automatic deliver best-in-class highway fuel economy of 31 mpg; Mustang V6 is the first car in history to deliver the combination of 300-plus horsepower and more than 30 mpg
• Ford Edge: With its 3.5-liter V6 and six-speed automatic, Edge delivers 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, a rating no other midsize crossover can top. The upcoming 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4 engine in the 2012 Edge is expected to deliver even greater economy
• Ford F-150: Its 302-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 engine and six-speed automatic deliver a best-in-class 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway – an EPA rating hybrid versions of the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra can’t top. The 3.7-liter V6 is one of four all-new truck engines coming to the 2011 F-150 lineup
• Ford Super Duty: The new Ford-designed and Ford-built 6.7-liter Power Stroke® diesel engine delivers as much as 20 percent better fuel economy than the 6.4-liter it replaced and hasn’t been topped for fuel economy in even third-party and media test drives. The new Power Stroke also is the most powerful diesel pickup engine money can buy, rated at 400 horsepower and 800 lb.-ft. of torque
• Fusion Hybrid remains America’s most fuel-efficient midsize family sedan, topping the Toyota Camry Hybrid by 6 mpg in combined city/highway fuel economy, according to the EPA
• Escape Hybrid, the nation’s most fuel-efficient SUV, with 34 mpg city and 31 mpg highway
• Transit Connect, a functional, flexible small van with no true competitors, delivers 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway
• Ranger pickup – still the industry’s most fuel-efficient small truck with 22 mpg city and 27 mpg highway
• Lincoln MKZ Hybrid midsize premium sedan delivers 41 mpg – 6 mpg better than its nearest competitor, Lexus HS250h
• Lincoln MKT, at 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway, is the most fuel-efficient full-size non-hybrid luxury SUV
• Lincoln MKX, in both two- and all-wheel-drive versions, delivers higher fuel economy than any other non-hybrid premium midsize SUV. MKX 2WD is rated at 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, while the AWD MKX delivers 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway
• The all-new 2011 Ford Explorer’s new 290-horsepower 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6 is projected to deliver at least 20 percent better fuel economy than the 2010 Explorer and an EPA rating higher than the Honda Pilot and other vehicles in its segment. An optional 2.0-liter, four-cylinder EcoBoost engine delivering even higher fuel economy will also be available after launch early next year

Record investment in new engines, six-speed transmissions and new fuel-saving technologies such as EcoBoost, twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) and electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) has raised Ford’s fleet average fuel economy performance faster and at a greater percentage than any major automaker, according to a report from the EPA.

Based on an analysis of data published by the EPA, Ford’s fleet average fuel economy improved more than any other automaker between 2004 and 2009. Ford’s improvement more than doubled its nearest competitor.

Still, at Ford, the fuel economy push continues in 2011. For instance, Edge and Explorer, two Ford nameplates that have never been offered with four-cylinder engines, will be available with fuel-saving 2.0-liter I-4 EcoBoost engines. An EcoBoost engine arrives early next year in F-150, as well. Downsized EcoBoost engines can increase fuel economy by as much as 20 percent over similar-sized conventional engines with no loss of performance.

“EcoBoost remains a cornerstone of our commitment to lead or be among the leaders in fuel economy with every new vehicle we bring to market,” Kuzak said. “EcoBoost is a game changer for millions because it’s affordable, scalable – it can be applied to everything from small cars to large trucks – and the technology is available and proven. Most importantly, it doesn’t ask owners to sacrifice the joy of driving in exchange for fuel economy benefits.”

EcoBoost is fundamental to Ford’s strategy to provide technologically advanced, high-output, smaller-displacement powertrains that deliver uncompromised performance and fuel economy. EcoBoost engines deliver fuel economy gains of up to 20 percent and reduction of CO2 emissions of up to 15 percent, compared to larger, less-efficient engines.

In addition to turbocharging with direct injection, Ford engineers have enhanced EcoBoost’s technology capabilities by adding variable valve timing and precisely controlling all aspects of the engine. Ford has at least 125 patents on its EcoBoost technology.

“Fuel economy and technology are consumers’ biggest priorities – and we have made them Ford’s as well,” Kuzak said.

Ford F-150 New 6.2L V8 Engine

The 2011 F-150 is coming with your choice of four new engines. And everyone is a leader. For the best in horsepower and torque, there's the new 6.2L V8. Want the biggest and the baddest? Here's your ultimate F-150 engine, with best-in-class power.

Ford C-Max Introduces 1.6 Liter EcoBoost Engine To North America, Promising Power And Efficiency

• The 1.6-liter EcoBoost™ I-4 engine in Ford C-MAX will deliver class-leading power and fuel economy in the small crossover segment while providing owners with the fun-to-drive quality that has become a hallmark of Ford EcoBoost engines
• Twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) combines with a single turbocharger and direct gasoline injection to maximize horsepower, torque and fuel economy
• By 2013, 90 percent of Ford’s vehicles in North America will be available with EcoBoost, with I-4 engines making up 66 percent of the EcoBoost lineup

DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 20, 2010 – To complement its bold, dynamic kinetic design, the Ford C-MAX also will offer a unique 1.6-liter EcoBoost™ engine, promising class-leading power and fuel economy for an all-new compact family vehicle.

The 1.6-liter EcoBoost I-4 uses advanced technologies such as twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT), turbocharging and direct gasoline injection to deliver up to 168 horsepower with non-premium fuel and 173 lb.-ft. of sustained torque.

“Driving enthusiasts have families, too, and C-MAX with EcoBoost is aimed squarely at meeting their needs,” said Barb Samardzich, vice president, Ford Global Product Programs. “It’s going to introduce a new type of customer to the joys of EcoBoost, and we’re confident the torque, flexibility and fuel economy mean C-MAX will set a high bar in this untapped North American market.”

Technologies – and results
A global Ford design, the lightweight, all-aluminum 1.6-liter EcoBoost I-4 combines three technologies – high-pressure direct injection, low-inertia turbocharging and Ti-VCT – to create an advanced combustion system that brings new levels of performance and fuel efficiency to small four-cylinder engines.

The success of Ford’s EcoBoost system lies in a combination of advanced hardware and a complex control system using hundreds of thousands of lines of computer code and related parameters. Through extensive research and testing, engineers have developed these proprietary software strategies integrating the engine, transmission and fuel management for dynamic driving.

The turbocharger increases airflow in the engine to boost power, while centrally mounted direct injection helps enable more efficient fuel burn for better economy. As with all EcoBoost engines, the 1.6-liter I-4 will produce maximum torque at relatively low engine speeds and maintain it across a broad range – estimated from 1,500 rpm to 4,500 rpm, according to preliminary Ford data.

“One of the key characteristics of an EcoBoost engine is its ability to produce peak torque across a very wide engine speed range,” explained Andrew Brumley, Ford chief program engineer. “Accelerating away from a stoplight and passing maneuvers require just a light press on the throttle to get the job done – the engine doesn’t have to spin to high rpm to generate the necessary power.”

Working with the direct gasoline injection system, a state-of-the-art turbocharger ensures virtually lag-free operation at all engine speeds. In service, the turbo spins at up to 200,000 rpm and is designed for a life cycle of 150,000 miles or 10 years.

Turbocharger “whoosh” is mitigated by electronically controlled anti-surge valves that proactively relieve the boost in the intake, which can range up to 17 psi. Careful software calibrations manage the pressures in the intake manifold, and an air-to-air intercooler lowers air temperature before it reaches the engine, resulting in a denser, cooler intake charge.

The combustion system has been completely redesigned and re-engineered to take advantage of the EcoBoost system’s increased performance. The cam-driven high-pressure mechanical fuel pump operates at up to 2,220 psi – more than 50 times the norm seen in a conventional I-4 engine.

As demands on the turbocharged 1.6-liter EcoBoost I-4 engine are increased, the control system responds to maintain optimal combustion, timing and injection duration.

On each stroke, six individual jets on each fuel injector spray fuel directly into the combustion chamber, mixing with the incoming air. By bringing the fuel injector right into the combustion chamber, there’s no delay from the time the fuel is injected to when it’s used by the engine.

The 1.6-liter engine uses centrally mounted fuel injectors located beside the spark plug at the top of the combustion chamber. When the fuel is injected into the cylinder, it evaporates and cools the air that’s been inducted into the cylinder. The centrally mounted injector also helps ensure optimum fuel mixing for peak power and lower emissions.

“Direct injection, particularly with a centrally mounted injector, allows for greater charge density,” explains Brumley. “The fuel doesn’t displace intake air as it does on a port injection engine, and we get improved fuel mixing. Technical terms aside, the result is more efficient combustion that the customer enjoys in the form of improved fuel economy.”

Also aiding engine breathing is Ford’s advanced Ti-VCT. This technology allows precise, variable timing control of both the intake and exhaust camshafts, which control the valve opening and closing events.
Another benefit of Ti-VCT technology is a broadened torque curve. Because the Ti-VCT strategy allows the intake valve to be advanced, instant power is delivered on demand at low speeds. At higher speeds, the intake cam is retarded and higher airflows are available, which results in approximately a 10 percent power improvement versus non-VCT engines.

The ability to vary the overlap between the intake and exhaust valves also leads to better fuel economy – approximately a 3 to 4 percent improvement from this strategy alone compared with non-VCT engines.
Fuel economy also is aided by minimizing weight throughout the engine. The block, cylinder head and oil pan – traditionally the heaviest engine components – are aluminum castings. To increase rigidity, these elements are ribbed for additional strength and durability. Pistons also are cast aluminum, helping to reduce reciprocating mass and adding to fuel efficiency.

Composite material is used to keep intake manifold weight to an absolute minimum while allowing for induction routing to increase thermal efficiency and improve low-end torque.

Global EcoBoost strategy
Since being introduced in 2009 on four vehicles – Ford Taurus SHO and Lincoln MKS full-size sedans and Ford Flex and Lincoln MKT crossovers – EcoBoost engines have been specified by a growing proportion of customers. In addition, a 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine arrives in F-150 pickups in March.

The addition of I-4 EcoBoost engines to the Ford lineup is a strong answer to consumer demand for engines of this size, which began in 2008. Approximately one-third of Ford’s U.S. engine volume is I-4, as customers want more fuel economy and lower emissions. EcoBoost engines help deliver performance on both fronts, reducing CO2 emissions compared to larger-displacement engines with similar power.

2011 Ford F-150 EcoBoost Beats Competition in Towing Exercise

The 2011 Ford F-150 EcoBoost won a powertrain performance exercise against the competition towing a trailer up Davis Dam in Arizona. It's the latest phase of the 3.5-liter EcoBoost truck engine's "Torture Test" web-based series.

2011 Ford Explorer - Terrain Management - Hill Descent

2011 Ford Explorer TMS in action....from San Diego Vision event.

The Spitzlift Portable Aluminum Crane Demonstration

This is a video presentation by Michael Spitsbergen, CEO of SpitzLift Light Weight Portable Cranes of Poway, CA. This video was shot with a Flip camera at a Knapheide Manufacturing event in Livermore, CA in October 2010. The other person speaking is Mike Soich of Knapheide Manufacturing. See more information on SpitzLift at www.spitzlift.net, and Knapheide Manufacturing at www.knapheide.com.

2011 Ford Explorer V6 Delivers Best-In-Class Fuel Economy Of 25 MPG Highway, Up 25 Percent

2011 Ford Explorer

• The all-new 2011 Ford Explorer V6 fuel economy ratings are now EPA-approved at 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, a 25 percent improvement over the previous V6 model
• The Explorer V6 combines an enhanced aerodynamic body with twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT), a six-speed automatic transmission and electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) to save fuel
• A fully capable SUV, Explorer V6 is available with intelligent 4WD and a terrain management system, and can be equipped to tow up to 5,000 pounds
• Explorer will soon be available with an advanced 2.0-liter EcoBoost™ I-4, expected to deliver 30 percent better fuel economy than the 2010 model

DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 9, 2010 – Ford Explorer, America’s most popular utility vehicle and safety innovator, is now the segment fuel economy leader.

With an EPA-certified 25 mpg highway rating – a 25 percent fuel economy gain over the outgoing V6 model – the 2011 Explorer sets a new benchmark for vehicles in its class. The Explorer EPA-certified rating of 17 mpg city can’t be bested by competitors, either.

"The new Explorer V6 with twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) delivers a keen balance between power and fuel economy,” said Jim Holland, chief nameplate engineer. “An efficient six-speed transmission mated to this efficient V6 helps Explorer deliver 25 percent better fuel efficiency. This raises the bar for full-size SUVs, and will change buyer expectations for the entire segment.”

Explorer’s fuel efficiency improvement is the cumulative result of multiple individual technologies, innovations and advancements.

The all-new Explorer body shape was optimized in a wind tunnel to reduce wind noise and increase fuel economy. Ford aerodynamicists and designers found that coordination between the front-mounted air dam and the rear liftgate lip spoiler could add almost 1 mpg at highway speeds.

The new Explorer marks the introduction of electric power-assisted steering (EPAS), yielding significantly improved maneuverability, reduced parasitic engine drag, weight savings and increased fuel economy.

Efficient and powerful new V6
The advanced Explorer V6 features a low-tension drive belt, aggressive deceleration fuel shutoff and a direct-acting mechanical bucket (DAMB) valvetrain with highly polished buckets to reduce internal friction. Each of these measures contributes to Explorer V6 fuel economy.

The improvement in fuel efficiency comes without compromising Explorer’s legendary flexibility and capability. When powered by the standard 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6 engine, the Explorer can be equipped to tow up to 5,000 pounds. At 290 horsepower, the all-new Explorer V6 exceeds the 2010 Explorer V6 by 80 horsepower. In addition, the 2011 Explorer V6’s power compares favorably to that of the 2010 Explorer V8, rated at 292 horsepower.

When configured with intelligent 4WD and the terrain management system, the all-new Explorer honors the nameplate heritage of off-road capability, with the additional benefit of removing driver guesswork when selecting the appropriate 4WD mode. A driver need only turn the console-mounted knob to the desired setting, and the Explorer automatically adjusts drivetrain behavior to suit conditions.
Explorer will soon offer a 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4, estimated to deliver a 30 percent increase in fuel economy. This option is ideally suited to SUV buyers placing a top priority on fuel economy.

The all-new 2011 Ford Explorer V6 is on sale now.

Ford Air Bag Innovations History



Ford EcoBoost Engines Go Global, Build Customer Satisfaction Scores

• In its second year on the market, Ford expands EcoBoost™ technology to include four-cylinder engines and adds an all-new truck application, the EcoBoost F-150
• EcoBoost uses turbocharging and direct gasoline injection to produce output similar to that of larger conventional engines, along with diesel-like torque curve and excellent fuel economy
• Ford is committed to further grow the availability of EcoBoost engines, aiming to help make fuel economy affordable for millions of customers

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 16, 2010 – Since the successful launch of the company’s highly praised 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 in summer 2009, Ford is on track with its plans to spread the technology to more engines, more vehicles and more consumers around the globe.

EcoBoost, which uses turbocharging and direct gasoline injection to boost engine output, reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency by as much as 20 percent, has been on the market for approximately 16 months. In that time, the engines have beaten Ford sales expectations, brought younger, more affluent customers to the brand and returned some of the highest customer satisfaction numbers the company has ever received.

“Ford customers have embraced EcoBoost technology because of its ability to deliver power and performance with uncompromised fuel economy,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president of Global Product Development. “We’re committed to expanding its reach to more customers so they can enjoy its unique blend of power, performance and fuel economy.”
Among the findings:

• 100 percent of Lincoln MKT buyers surveyed who chose EcoBoost said they were satisfied with their engine’s performance, including power and pickup; 99 percent said they were satisfied with their engine’s overall operation
• EcoBoost has attracted younger, more affluent buyers who haven’t necessarily shopped a Ford or Lincoln product previously:
  • Average Taurus SHO buyers are seven years younger than base Taurus buyers and the second-youngest in the segment
  • Average household income for SHO buyers is nearly 4 percent higher than that of base Taurus buyers and is the highest in its segment
  • 40 percent more SHO buyers are cross-shopping a premium brand versus buyers of the base Taurus
• Approximately 11 percent of Flex models are sold with EcoBoost, 3 percent higher than anticipated

About the EcoBoost family of engines
Since being introduced in 2009 on four vehicles – Ford Taurus SHO (standard) and Lincoln MKS full-size sedans and Ford Flex and Lincoln MKT crossovers – EcoBoost engines have been embraced by customers. During the next 12 months, the technology will expand to the Ford Edge crossover, Explorer SUV and F-150 pickup, with the high-performance Focus ST and C-MAX people mover following shortly thereafter.

1.6-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost
The 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine benefits from a unique, centrally mounted direct-injection system, giving it extraordinary power for its size. The engine is manufactured at the Bridgend plant in Wales.

Availability:

2011 Ford C-MAX (Europe)
2013 Ford C-MAX (U.S.)
Additional European models to be announced

2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost
The 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine is the company’s first global EcoBoost engine, manufactured at the Valencia engine plant in Spain.

Availability:

2010 Ford S-MAX (Europe)
2010 Ford Galaxy (Europe)
2011 Ford Edge
2011 Ford Falcon (Australia)
2012 Ford Explorer
2012 Ford Focus ST

3.5-liter EcoBoost
The first EcoBoost engine launched in North America, the 3.5-liter V6 is manufactured at Ford’s Cleveland Engine Plant.

Availability:

Ford Taurus SHO
Lincoln MKS
Lincoln MKT
2011 Ford F-150

Future EcoBoost plans
At the Beijing Auto Show in April, Ford debuted the newest member of the EcoBoost family in the Start concept. The small concept car’s engine is a 1.0-liter three-cylinder that delivers the performance of a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine.

By 2013, Ford plans to offer an EcoBoost engine in up to 90 percent of its North American nameplates, supporting global sales of 1.5 million EcoBoost-powered vehicles per year.

Ford WRC 2010 Season Review

It's the end of the 2010 World Rally Championship season, and another year of commitment by Ford to rallying.

Becs Williams and her TV crew have captured the highs and lows of 2010 and won plaudits around the world for their reporting. Inevitably, there were one or two funnier moments that didn't make it into the videos - not until now!

Enjoy, and seasonal greetings from the team to everyone around the world....

Driving the Ford Transit Connect Electric

An all-electric version of the Ford Transit Connect will debuted at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show. This zero-emissions, electric vehicle (EV) version of the small van will be in fleet operators hands later this year.

The 2011 Ford Explorer Loves The Mountains

The 2011 Ford Explorer, perfect for winter sports.

Nick Martini and Sage Cattabriga-Alosa show us why.

Conquest Wheelchair Bikers on Modified Trikes

Wheelchair motorcycle bikers use a wheelchair ramp in the back of a modified BMW trike called The Conquest. In order to ride from their wheelchairs, they shift gears with the use of hand controls. The "Gang of Three" was led by MobilityWorks Certified Mobility Consultant Todd Slates, video of the three riders was taken during the 2010 David Lytle Memorial Foundation Poker Run in Northern Ohio on August 21st. The foundation assists persons with spinal cord injuries in finding assistive technology to help improve their mobility. Footage was taken by MobilityWorks President Bill Koeblitz. Learn more at http://www.mobilityworks.com

Wheelchair for a Day: Nick Gutwein

Nick Gutwein,President of BraunAbility, was the fourth employee asked to take the "Wheelchair for a Day" challenge. While we recognize this program in no way gives a complete perspective of the daily challenges faced by a wheelchair user, it will still be an educational experience for us all. After all, how can we claim to understand our customers' needs if we've never seen things from their point-of-view?

Knapheide KUV and Sortimo Storage Solutions

Mike Soich of Knapheide Manufacturing shows us their partnership with the world leader in storage solutions in vechicles, Sortimo. Knapheide has designed special shelves prepunched to accomodate varied box sizes to allow for maximum storage and to match individual business needs and desires. It is a brilliant use of the space and helps people be more efficient and effective.

The Sortimo boxes are available in the Knapheide KUV body, and all of Knapheide's service body products.

This video was taken with a Flip camera at a Knapheide event in Livermore, CA in October, 2010.

See more about Knapheide products at www.knapheide.com and you can see the full range of products from Sortimo at www.sortimo.com.

2011 Ford Explorer: Explorer Fan Robert Answers Your Questions

Robert has been answering questions about the 2011 Explorer. Now he takes time to answer a question about himself.