Last Man Standing at ZMAX

Ford Racing and Roush Fenway Racing drivers Matt Kenseth, Greg Biffle and David Ragan join John Force in a battle of drag racing Mustangs at ZMAX Dragway in Concord, NC.

Ford Teams With AT&T to Wirelessly Connect New Ford Focus Electric

Ford Electric Vehicle Owners Will Have Ability to Remotely Monitor, Engage and Control Vehicle Settings via Information Collected over the AT&T Wireless Network

• Ford Motor Company to use AT&T wireless network to connect new Ford Focus Electric
• Wireless connection enables vehicle owners to control vehicle settings when away from the car – all part of a strategic approach to make Ford electric car ownership simple, easy and engaging
• MyFord Mobile, Ford’s exclusive app powered by MapQuest data, will be accessible through a smartphone or secure website
• Embedded wireless connection and dedicated app includes the ability for the owner to monitor and control vehicle charge settings, plan single- or multiple-stop journeys, locate charging stations, pre-heat or cool the car

DALLAS and DEARBORN, Mich., March 23, 2011 — Ford Motor Company and AT&T* today announced an agreement to wirelessly connect the Ford Focus Electric, Ford’s first all-electric passenger car. Announced in January at the 2011 International CES, the new Focus Electric enters production at the Michigan Assembly Plant in late 2011.

Through the new MyFord Mobile smartphone app, using the embedded AT&T wireless connection, Ford Focus Electric vehicle owners will have the ability to send and receive data about their car providing command and control of vehicle settings while away from it.

“Ford has been at the forefront of developing market leading telematics and infotainment services for its vehicles and we’re thrilled to be a part of this exciting and significant next step with the upcoming Focus Electric,” said Glenn Lurie, president of emerging devices, resale and partnerships, AT&T. “Connecting consumers directly to their electric vehicles in this new and innovative way is going to drive innovative and exciting levels of interaction.”

MyFord Mobile technology provides Focus Electric owners in North America with a powerful tool to stay connected, monitor and control their vehicle. Through a smartphone app or secure website, MyFord Mobile invites Focus Electric owners to plan trips, monitor the vehicle’s state of charge, receive various alerts for vehicle charging, as well as provides several other features designed to simplify the electric vehicle ownership experience.

“With a wireless connection, we’re putting battery charge and vehicle range information, along with an interactive, data-driven trip planning app, directly at the fingertips of our customers,” said Ed Pleet, product and business manager for Ford Connected Services. “This technology will keep drivers connected to vital information, enhancing their electric car ownership experience. The AT&T network is an important part of this equation and we’re pleased to have AT&T on board.”

MyFord Mobile will connect through the AT&T network, allowing the car to communicate off-board through standard wireless technology. From an internet connected mobile phone or computer, owners can:

• Find current and projected state of charge information including estimated range and the amount of charge time necessary for additional distances
• Program vehicle charging with utility input, allowing the car to start charging immediately or when electricity prices are lowest with the value charging feature, powered by Microsoft
• Features powered by MapQuest available on the MyFord smartphone app:
  • Locate charging stations and get the destination sent to the vehicle
  • Know if the vehicle can reach a specific charge station from its current location with the current charge level
  • Create a journey with multiple stops, and determine the likelihood that the car has adequate charge for the full journey
  • Find the car by creating a route from a mobile phone to the vehicle
• Receive alerts if the vehicle isn’t charging when it’s scheduled to, or if charging stops unexpectedly due to a power outage, plug removal or other event
• Receive alerts during recharge when the vehicle has reached a particular preset charge level or has the ability to reach a particular destination
• Engage remote vehicle preconditioning, using grid power to heat or cool the vehicle interior
• Remotely lock/unlock doors
• Use the built-in GPS system to locate the car
• Download performance and system data
• Fun ways of understanding your driver behavior, with ratings from ‘Zen’ to ‘Zippy’
• Receive information personalized to the driver, depending on which key the driver used

How the system works
At launch, the MyFord Mobile app will be available for most major smartphones, along with a mobile web application for compatibility with any phone supporting HTML-5 browser-based access, or feature phones with WAP 2.0-supported browsers. The feature also is accessible via a secure Ford website.
Owners will use the smartphone to communicate with a cloud-based highly secure server, which stores information provided by the embedded wireless module in Focus Electric. Using a cloud-based architecture ensures users will have up-to-the-minute access to information through the AT&T wireless network.

Ford Display At Bangkok International Auto Show

Things are not so different around the world. . . Ford Show in Thailand.

A Great Pickup Line: Ford Delivers Best Fuel Economy, Best Power, Best Capability and Best Value

• 2011 Ford F-150 and Ranger cited by the EPA as most fuel-efficient trucks
• From small to extra large, Ford pickups – Ranger, F-150 and Super Duty – each deliver an unbeatable combination of outstanding value, capability and now fuel economy
• Ford’s two new V6 truck engines are a hit with customers, going from zero percent of sales mix to more than 35 percent of total sales in just four months. 2011 Ford F-150 EcoBoost™ is the fastest-turning truck in the entire Ford F-Series lineup

DEARBORN, Mich., March 25, 2011 – Buyers looking for the unbeatable combination of fuel economy, capability, power and value in pickups can find it all in Ford’s comprehensive truck range – Ranger, F-150 and Super Duty.

The Environmental Protection Agency’s 2011 list of Most and Least Fuel Efficient Trucks cited two Ford pickups, Ranger and F-150 with the 3.7-liter V6, as the most fuel efficient in their segments. That gives Ford a clean sweep of best pickup truck fuel economy numbers from smallest to largest.

The 2011 Super Duty’s new 6.7-liter Power Stroke® V8 turbocharged diesel, though not rated by the EPA, is the class leader in fuel economy, based on independent testing against General Motors and Ram diesel pickups.

The 2011 Power Stroke engine and its six-speed automatic transmission deliver a 20 percent fuel economy gain over the 2010 model, along with best-in-class horsepower and torque. No other diesel pickup engine delivers 400 horsepower and 800 lb.-ft. of torque.

According to the EPA, the 2011 F-150 with the all-new 3.7-liter V6 engine is the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid full-size pickup with a combined city and highway rating of 19 mpg, while Ranger leads the compact segment with 24 mpg.

“The No. 1 unmet need for full-size pickup truck owners has been fuel economy. With the recent hike in gas prices, this need is even stronger,” said Doug Scott, Truck Group marketing manager. “The good news is the 2011 Ford F-150 has best-in-class fuel economy, best-in-class capability and power, and more powertrain choices to suit customers’ different needs.”

According to AAA, prices for regular unleaded gasoline average $3.55 a gallon nationally, making fuel economy a growing concern each day.

Fuel efficiency is a key reason people are increasingly considering Ford cars and trucks. Ford is No. 1 on new-car shoppers’ consideration lists, according to the latest Market Intelligence Brand Watch™ study from Kelley Blue Book kbb.com.

The 2011 Ford F-150 with the 3.7-liter V6 represents a no-compromise, best-in-class overall value proposition compared to the competition’s most fuel-efficient gasoline offerings.

Truck	Engine	Fuel economy: city/highway, combined	MSRP	Maximum conventional towing	Maximum payload	Horse-power	Torque
Ford F-150	3.7-liter V6	17/23 mpg, 19 mpg best-in-class	$22,415	6,100 pounds best-in-class	1,920 pounds	302 best-in-class	278 lb.-ft.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500	4.3-liter V6	15/20 mpg, 17 mpg	$20,850	5,400 pounds	1,937 pounds	195	260 lb.-ft.
Toyota Tundra	4.0-liter V6	16/20 mpg, 18 mpg	$23,935	4,900 pounds	1,620 pounds	270	278 lb.-ft.
Ram 1500	3.7-liter V6	14/20 mpg, 16 mpg	$20,810	3,750 pounds	1,480 pounds	210	235 lb.-ft.

Comparisons between 2011 models with two-wheel drive

“The numbers speak for themselves,” said Scott. “Similar to the rest of the Ford F-Series lineup, the 2011 Ford F-150 with the 3.7-liter V6 is the ‘and’ solution, providing best-in-class capability, performance and fuel economy. Competitive full-size pickups force consumers to sacrifice one need for another. To gain better fuel economy, for example, they have to give up performance, capability and/or affordability.

“Chevrolet’s hybrid matches the 23 mpg on the highway from our 3.7-liter V6, but the Chevrolet hybrid’s suggested retail price is nearly $16,000 more than ours.”

That Ford F-Series commitment to providing capability, performance and fuel economy carries through the entire all-new powertrain lineup for the 2011 F-150, which also includes new 5.0-liter and 6.2-liter V8 engines as well as the first application of Ford’s award-winning EcoBoost™ technology in a truck.

Core truckers embrace new F-150 with EcoBoost
The 2011 Ford F-150 equipped with the 365-horsepower 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo engine and six-speed automatic transmission achieves 22 mpg on the highway and 16 mpg in the city. No other truck with comparable horsepower can match the F-150 EcoBoost in highway or city fuel economy.

The one-two-three punch of Ford Motor Company’s EcoBoost technology – capability, performance and fuel economy – opens a new era for committed truckers.

“The 3.5-liter EcoBoost truck engine is a shining example of the uncompromising nature of Ford’s EcoBoost technology: more power and better fuel economy,” said Scott. “What’s important for truck customers is that this all-new engine delivers best-in-class capability where it matters most: towing and hauling. Now they’re getting great fuel economy, too.”

Manufacturer	Engine	Fuel economy: city/highway, combined	Maximum conventional towing	Horse- power	Torque
Ford	3.5-liter EcoBoost	16/22 mpg, 18 mpg best-in-class	11,300 pounds best-in-class	365	420 lb.-ft. best-in-class
Chevrolet	5.3-liter V8	15/21 mpg, 17 mpg	10,000 pounds	315	335 lb.-ft.
Ram	5.7-liter V8	14/20 mpg, 16 mpg	10,450 pounds	390	407 lb.-ft.
Toyota	5.7-liter V8	14/18 mpg, 16 mpg	10,400 pounds	381	401 lb.-ft.
Nissan	5.6-liter V8	13/18 mpg, 15 mpg	9,500 pounds	317	385 lb.-ft.

Comparisons between 2011 models with two-wheel drive; Chevrolet Silverado XFE is rated at 7,000 pounds maximum towing and

15/22 mpg city/highway fuel economy (18 mpg combined)

The 3.5-liter EcoBoost truck engine produces best-in-class 420 lb.-ft. of torque, helping enable best-in-class maximum towing of 11,300 pounds and maximum payload of 3,060 pounds, all with unsurpassed fuel economy.

The 3.7-liter V6 and 3.5-liter EcoBoost account for a combined 35 percent of the sales mix for the 2011 F-150, and the 2011 F-150 EcoBoost is the fastest-turning truck in the entire F-Series lineup.

New 5.0-liter V8 also a strong package
For customers desiring a traditional V8 engine, the new 5.0-liter V8 for the 2011 F-150 delivers an unbeatable combination of capability, power and fuel economy as well.

Manufacturer	Engine	Fuel economy: city/highway, combined	Maximum conventional towing	Horsepower	Torque
Ford	5.0-liter V8	15/21 mpg, 17 mpg best-in-class highway	10,000 pounds best-in-class	360 best-in-class	380 lb.-ft. best-in-class
Chevrolet	4.8-liter V8	14/19 mpg, 16 mpg	7,200 pounds	302	305 lb.-ft.
Toyota	4.6-liter V8	15/20 mpg, 17 mpg	8,600 pounds	310	327 lb.-ft.
Ram	4.7-liter V8	14/19 mpg, 15 mpg	7,650 pounds	302	329 lb.-ft.

Comparisons between 2011 models with two-wheel drive

2011 Super Duty has more power, most towing and best fuel economy
Launched in spring 2010, the 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty has best-in-class fuel economy with both the 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 turbocharged diesel and 6.2-liter V8 gas engines. The diesel has 20 percent better fuel economy while the gas has 15 percent better fuel economy compared with the outgoing products.

The Power Stroke is rated at best-in-class 800 lb.-ft. of torque and 400 horsepower and the Super Duty is the undisputed tow leader with 24,400 pounds of best-in-class fifth-wheel towing.

The reliable Ford Ranger continues to outpace the competition with EPA ratings of 22 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, which is 3 mpg and 2 mpg, respectively, better than its nearest competitor.

The class-leading fuel economy of Ford’s pickups is part of the company’s broader corporate strategy to lead or be among the leaders in fuel economy in every segment in which it competes.

Ford offers six-speed transmissions in nearly all its North American lineup of Ford and Lincoln brand luxury vehicles. Ford is the only automaker with 12 sales segment fuel economy leaders, and four vehicles EPA-certified at 40 mpg or higher.

Global RallyCross Championship jump practice

Nothing creates the buzz at RallyCross like the Joker Jump and 'big air.' Here are the trio of Ford Fiesta in their morning jumps.

351 V8 Ford Focus

We didn't see a 351 CI engine on the option list. . . but it looks like fun!

Ford's St. Petersburg Plant In Russia Produces Its 400,000th Ford Focus, The Country’s Best Selling Non-Domestic Car

• 400,000th Ford Focus built in  Russia
• Ford Focus has been Russia's best-selling car built in the country by a non-domestic manufacturer for the past seven years

MOSCOW, March, 23, 2011 – The 400,000th Russian-built Ford Focus rolled off the production line today at the Ford plant in Vsevolozhsk, near St. Petersburg.

The Ford Focus has been Russia's best-selling car manufactured in the country by a non-domestic manufacturer for the past seven years.

The Ford Focus currently being produced in Russia is the previous version to the all-new model which is just now going on sale in Europe and North America.  The all-new Ford Focus starts production in Russia later this year.

“Ford changed the Russian perception of cars when it started producing Ford Focus in 2002," said Mark Ovenden, president and managing director, Ford Russia.  “The Focus proved that a volume-produced car could be safe and affordable with attractive design and high quality.”

Gray Greenway, general director of Ford's St. Petersburg plant, said: "We have a phenomenal team at our plant, and it has been building the Focus with high quality since it was launched in 2002.  The customer expects nothing less from a new car, and the team is delivering.

"The Focus represents the dream car for many Russians. It's safe, with best-in-class cost of ownership, and is available in a range of models."

The Russian plant is the only Ford manufacturing facility which produces the Ford Focus in all three body styles: five-door, four-door and wagon.

Ford was the first foreign manufacturer to start vehicle production in Russia. More than 2,700 employees current work at the Vsevolozhsk plant.  Each day, the plant produces about 300 cars in two shifts.  Total Focus output at the plant last year was 70,000 units.




(Waving the flag - three Ford Focus cars line up in the colours of the Russian flag to celebrate the model's 400,000th production milestone at Ford's St. Petersburg plant)

1956 Ford Police Car Commercial

1956 Ford Police Car Commercial. A bit of retro-fun.

Ford Fiesta Gets Personal for 2012, Gives Owners Bursts of Color, Customization Inside and Out

The new interior package delivers a custom look with two-tone seating surfaces, door trim inserts, steering wheel and interior components, and is available in both Race Red and Oxford White.

• Ford Fiesta continues to deliver personalization options for customers, with the debut of three new packages for 2012. The offerings include two interior packages and one exterior package
• Forty percent of buyers purchase at least one accessory for their Fiestas, with more than 26,000 Ford Custom Accessories items already sold
• The new interior package delivers a custom look with two-tone seating surfaces, door trim inserts, steering wheel and interior components, and is available in both Race Red and Oxford White
• Inspired by the European Ford Focus RS, the premium sport appearance package offers customers several blacked-out components, along with a performance improvement when ordered with a manual transmission

Dearborn, Mich., March 23, 2011 – The small car style Ford Fiesta delivers is expanding for 2012 with three new packages to give customers even more options for personalizing.
The new packages build on the success of the current personalization choices Fiesta customers enjoy today, with nearly 40 percent purchasing at least one accessory. To date, more than 26,000 Ford Custom Accessories items have been purchased by Fiesta owners.

“The Fiesta customer loves accessories and personalization. These packages extend the desire the customer has to make the car more tailored to his or her own personal tastes,” said Lew Echlin, Global Car marketing manager. “Personalization has been key since the Fiesta launched, and with the new packages we’re featuring the latest design trends so customers can do even more with their car.”

A recent study by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) found that accessories drive sales, with the availability of accessories influencing more than 1 million new vehicle sales each year.

“The appeal of accessories reflects on other trends in society, including the desire to personalize phones, computers and clothing,” said Sheryl Connelly, manager of Ford Global Trends and Futuring. “People don’t customize to stand out from the crowd; they do it to create a more meaningful connection.”

The new premium sport appearance package takes cues from the European Focus RS with several blacked-out components that feature Tuxedo Black paint, including:

• Side mirrors
• Headlamps
• Grille surround
• License plate header
• Upper rear hatch spoiler

“The black trim pieces are the perfect way to complement the exterior of Fiesta and give it a completely unique look that our customers are looking for,” said Richard Anderson, planning manager, Ford Vehicle Personalization. “Fiestas outfitted with this package will give off a race-like, sporty feel that’s unique to this vehicle.”

The package also offers 16-inch polished alloy wheels along with improved performance when ordered with a manual transmission. The package delivers improved performance through a shorter final drive ratio of 4.25 versus the base model at 4.07.

Interior touches
The new premium interior packages for the 2012 Fiesta draw inspiration from the runway. Available on high-level Fiesta SEL and SES models, the packages feature high-contrasting interior accent colors in Oxford White or Race Red that are strategically placed throughout the interior of the vehicle, similarities that can be seen in the latest collections in fashion and home design.

“The inspiration for this package is mainly a result of the trends we’re seeing in fashion,” explained Mark Conforzi, chief designer, Ford Vehicle Personalization. “Designers like Stella McCartney use bold, contrasting color similar to these interior packages, adding a one-of-a-kind design that looks amazing.”

The contrast color is used on the center stack bezel, door panels and vent trim rings. The two-tone leather-wrapped steering wheel also offers a color-matched insert with contrast stitching, while the shift knob comes in black leather for even greater distinction.

The theme also carries through to the seats, where contrast-color leather seat cushions and seatback surfaces with perforated inserts are used. Contrast-color seams are applied in the bolsters, head restraints and seat surfaces. The seats also feature a debossed “Fiesta” logo and black leather bolsters.

Personalized Fiesta
There are plenty of options for customers looking to personalize their Fiesta in other ways as well. Ford Custom Accessories offers almost anything an owner would need to put a creative touch on Fiesta or give the car even more functionality. If an owner is looking to light up the interior, for example, there are several choices. An illuminated gear indicator shift knob comes with a digital gear display, while illuminated door sill plates add special effects with an LED Fiesta logo.

There’s also an interior light kit that includes one LED-generated light in the cupholder area and a light bar in the footwells. Owners can set a mood with their choice of seven colors that create the perfect ambience.
A rear roof spoiler exclusive to the hatchback is a chiseled head-turner that can be painted to match one’s Fiesta color, or painted in a contrasting color for even more flair. A four-piece, race-inspired body kit comes with a sculpted front air dam, side skirts and sleek rear valance.

Introduced for the first time in North America last year, a unique body-side tattoo graphic for Fiesta is being offered. Guaranteed to get looks, this striking tattoo, available in black or silver, spells out “Fiesta” on the side panel. It’s made of heavy-duty, weather-resistant vinyl and is precision-cut to fit the car’s curves.

Another option features Ford Custom Graphics by Original Wraps, which lets customers choose the size and design of several body-side and hood graphics or racing stripes from a portfolio of images. More than 22 designs are available in several different colors, and include a cityscape, bubbles, flames and even ninja blades. Check out the graphics at http://www.fordcustomgraphics/.

Nearly a year after Fiesta’s North American introduction, the Fiesta accessory offerings continue to be well received. While some customers prefer appearance items, others are all about functionality. To date, the most popular accessories are custom manual transmission shift knobs, the Euro-style upper rear hatch spoiler and the Fiesta tattoo graphic.
Additionally, 10 percent of all manual-transmission Fiestas are ordered with the Illuminated Interior Accessory Package and Metallic Interior Accessory Package.

Trevor Bayne and Motorcraft -- a winning combination

Trevor Bayne, driver of the #21 Motorcraft®/FordParts.com Ford Fusion and youngest driver ever to win the Daytona 500®, tells us how he won with Motorcraft® on his side.

Motorcraft® parts are recommended by Ford Motor Company for Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles and are available to order online 24/7 at FordParts.com.

2012 Ford F-650 with 6.8-liter V-10 Gas Engine

From the 2011 NTEA Work Truck Show, PickupTrucks.com's Mike Levine takes a look at the 2012 Ford F-650 with the new 6.8-liter V-10 gas engine and a six-speed automatic transmission.

Efficient Ford Six-Speed PowerShift Automatic Cuts Fuel Use By Up To 10 Percent, Helps Fiesta, Focus Get 40 MPG

• New Ford PowerShift transmission blends the sporty feel of a manual transmission with the convenience of an automatic
• Ford PowerShift is one of the most advanced transmissions available for subcompact and compact cars like the new Ford Focus and Fiesta
• PowerShift weighs nearly 30 pounds less than the four-speed automatic transmission in the current 2011 Focus. Less weight helps improve fuel economy

2012 Ford Focus

DEARBORN, Mich., March 14, 2011 – With gasoline already more than $4 per gallon in some American cities, the new fuel-saving dual dry-clutch Ford PowerShift six-speed automatic is the right transmission at the right time.

Ford PowerShift – the company’s most sophisticated transmission ever – is part of a suite of advanced fuel-saving technologies available immediately on the Fiesta and the all-new Focus, enabling both cars to deliver as much as 40 mpg on the highway.

“The Ford PowerShift transmission is a technological leap over the competition,” said Piero Aversa, PowerShift engineering manager. “Now that it’s available in the new Focus as well as Fiesta, PowerShift gives us two great small cars that not only lead in fuel economy, but are more fun to drive as well.”

The all-new Focus, available in sedan and five-door bodystyles and featuring a 160-horsepower, direct-injected 2.0-liter engine, is arriving now at Ford dealers across the nation.

More than 95 percent of new-car buyers purchase their vehicles with automatic transmissions, even though many prefer the crisper acceleration, sportier performance and higher fuel economy traditionally offered by manual transmissions. Ford’s PowerShift dual dry-clutch transmission delivers the convenience of an automatic with the fuel efficiency and fun-to-drive sporty feel of a manual gearbox.

PowerShift is part of Ford’s commitment to lead or be among the leaders in fuel economy in every segment in which the company competes. Ford offers six-speed transmissions in nearly its entire North American lineup of Ford and Lincoln brand luxury vehicles. Ford is the only automaker to offer North American vehicle buyers 12 sales segment fuel economy leaders, with four vehicles EPA-certified at 40 mpg or higher.

The PowerShift unit available in Fiesta and Focus models is one of the most advanced transmissions available for subcompact and compact cars. Dual-clutch transmissions, like PowerShift, were born at the racetrack and saw their application for production road cars in ultra-expensive exotics, such as the $1.7 million Bugatti Veyron and $200,000 Ferrari California.

Among competitor vehicles in the Focus segment – Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Jetta, Hyundai Elantra, Chevrolet Cruze and Nissan Sentra – none offers drivers more horsepower, faster acceleration and higher fuel economy with an automatic transmission. Plus, no other car in the Fiesta segment offers a six-speed automatic of any type.

The New 2011 Ford Fiesta
Click here to download related images.

Inside Ford PowerShift

Unlike regular hydraulically operated automatic transmissions, which use power-sapping torque converters, wet clutches and pumps, Ford’s new dual-clutch PowerShift automatic consists of two manual transmissions (in the same case) working in parallel. Each has its own independent clutch unit controlled by computers and fast-acting electromechanical actuators that shift the gears.

One clutch carries the odd gears, 1, 3 and 5, while the other carries the even gears, 2, 4 and 6, and reverse. PowerShift is an automatic because the gear changes are coordinated by a computer that directs the clutches to engage and disengage in a way that provides seamless delivery of torque to the wheels, even during gear changes.

As a result, the driver benefits from a 10 percent fuel economy gain along with the direct and sporty power-to-the-wheels feel and crisp acceleration normally associated with a manual gearbox, but in a transmission that shifts automatically.

Ford PowerShift’s advanced features include: 

• Torque Hole Fill: A Ford-developed and patented innovation that eliminates the slight hesitation drivers feel during acceleration when the transmission upshifts into a higher gear. PowerShift sends a smooth, seamless stream of torque to the wheels for uninterrupted acceleration
• Hill Start Assist: If sensors detect the Fiesta or Focus on a slope of 5 degrees or more, Hill Start Assist automatically prevents the car from rolling backward in the instant when the driver moves his or her foot from the brake to the accelerator. PowerShift’s computer controls the brake pressure and engine to hold the car in place
• Neutral idle: This feature helps improve fuel economy by eliminating the drag a traditional hydraulic transmission puts on the engine when a vehicle is idling
• Reduced weight: PowerShift weighs nearly 30 pounds less than the four-speed automatic transmission in the 2011 Focus. Less weight helps improve fuel economy

Ford engineers began developing the dual-clutch technology when advances in the speed of processors, memory and the mechanical actuators that shift the gears progressed to the point that a manual transmission could be made to perform as smoothly as an automatic.

“The kind of computing power needed in terms of speed and amount of memory advanced to the point where it is now possible to offer the driver fast, crisp and seamless shifts from this advanced transmission at an affordable price,” said George Herr, PowerShift calibration supervisor.

Since its launch in Fiesta in 2010, Ford engineers have continued to develop and refine PowerShift’s performance and efficiency.

The PowerShift for the all-new Focus, for example, offers several new features including a more compliant clutch damper spring design to reduce noise levels. Aversa said the Focus shift schedule has been optimized for the wider torque band provided by the car’s 160-horsepower, direct-injected 2.0-liter engine.

Also new for Focus is the SelectShift^™ Automatic feature. SelectShift allows a driver to change gears – up or down – by simply pressing a button on the shift handle. By pushing the plus sign button, the transmission upshifts. Push the minus sign button and the car downshifts. The PowerShift computer prevents a driver from downshifting too fast and causing damage from over-revving. In the Focus, drivers also can choose Sport Mode, which changes the timing of the shifts for quicker acceleration.

Ford engineers also worked to improve low-speed responsiveness and smoothness in response to customer feedback. “We believe there isn’t a more efficient automatic transmission available anywhere,” said Aversa.

The PowerShift transmission is offered in Ford vehicles sold around the world.

Mobility Works Transit Connect mobility van

Mobility Works, Ford's largest manufacturer of mobility vans, is proud to introduce their newest mobility van based on Ford's economical Transit Connect chassis.

Ford Super Duty Fleet Wrap Up

Over the past year, the new Ford Super Duty has been put to the test under the most brutal conditions. Six prototype trucks have been pushed to their limit and beyond. Find out from the guys who worked these trucks every day if the new Super Duty really lived up to its name.

In Their Own Words: The Wood Brothers Legacy

Wood Brothers Racing has been in existence for 61 years and throughout their long and storied history they have won 98 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races, an owner's championship, five Daytona 500 victories and a roster of hall of fame drivers that is the envy of the sport.

The Woods discuss their racing history and talk about their humble beginnings.

2011 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor SuperCrew - First Drive

Motor Trend technical director Frank Markus hits the snow in the all-new 2011 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor SuperCrew.

Switch To Propane - Super Shuttle

Ken Brooks from Super Shuttle describes his company's new green push, and why they decided to switch to propane autogas!

Switch to Propane - Competitive Lawn Service

Eric Hansen from Competitive Lawn Service, Inc. in Downers Grove, IL comes by the ROUSH factory to pick up his brand-new ROUSH CleanTech liquid propane autogas powered Ford F-350 and to talk about the benefits of switching to propane.

Full Harvest Of Ford Greener Fuel Solutions Showcased At NTEA Work Truck Show

• Ford offers a more comprehensive alternative-fuel solution to commercial customers than any other manufacturer
• By 2012, half of Ford vehicles will be capable of running on alternative fuels
• By 2020, Ford is targeting a 30 percent reduction in CO2 emissions from Ford vehicles in the U.S. and Europe

INDIANAPOLIS, March 7, 2011 – Ford Motor Company’s ever-growing portfolio of fuel-efficient products extends to commercial customers, including those interested in alternative-fuel vehicles to “green” their fleets.

Visitors to the annual National Truck Equipment Association (NTEA) show can see firsthand how Ford delivers the most comprehensive alternative-fuel solutions for commercial customers. The wide variety of vans and trucks with alternative-fuel capability is backed by support for customers looking to switch their vehicles from gasoline power to another fuel, such as compressed natural gas or propane. By 2012, half of all Ford vehicles will be capable of running on alternative fuel.

“No other manufacturer offers the range of vehicles and alternative-fuel solutions combined with comprehensive support,” said Len Deluca, director, Ford Commercial Truck. “We’re bringing our commercial customers the solutions they need in this ever-competitive environment.”

As businesses seek to be more environmentally responsible in all facets of their operations, greening a vehicle fleet is often a natural first step that can have an immediate and positive impact. There also are government tax credit incentives for fleets to convert to alternative fuels.

With the wide variety of requirements for commercial vehicles – such as application, payload and driving cycle – Ford has developed an expansive suite of vehicles and alternative-fuel choices.

Ford commercial truck alternative-fuel choices at a glance

Vehicle	Transit Connect	E-Series cargo vans	E-Series cutaways, stripped chassis	E-Series wagons	F-Series Super Duty	F-350-F-550 Super Duty chassis cabs	F-650/ F-750 Super Duty chassis cabs	F53, F59 stripped chassis
Flex fuel		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Biodiesel					Yes	Yes	Yes
CNG/LPG*	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Hybrid			Yes			Yes
Plug-in hybrid						Yes
BEV**	Yes		Yes

*CNG/LPG (compressed natural gas/liquefied petroleum gas – propane or butane) capable of conversion by third-party modifier when equipped with optional prep engine
**Hybrid, PHEV and BEV (battery electric vehicle) upfitted by third-party modifier

“Our range of choices helps ensure customers can find the right product that best suits their needs,” said Deluca.

For example, a battery electric vehicle (BEV) might be appropriate for customers with multiple short trips over the course of a day totaling less than 100 miles. CNG, LPG and flex-fuel vehicles have a range of about 300 miles before needing to be refueled. Biodiesel and hybrid vehicles stretch the range even further, up to 500 miles.

Types of fuels and their advantages
Here’s a quick look at the types of fuels offered in Ford commercial trucks:

• Flex fuel: A flexible-fuel vehicle (FFV) is an alternative-fuel vehicle with an internal combustion engine designed to run on more than one fuel, usually gasoline blended with ethanol (E85), and both fuels are stored in the same common tank. Flex-fuel engines are capable of burning any proportion of the resulting blend as fuel injection and spark timing are adjusted automatically according to the actual blend detected by electronic sensors. E85 is the most common flex fuel and many Ford engines are capable of using E85
  • Advantages– Ethanol/E85 is clean-burning and substantially reduces CO and CO2 emissions. Compared to gasoline, it is a higher octane, provides more horsepower and burns cooler. Corn and other cellulosic plants are readily available
  • Considerations– E85 produces less energy, so 1.56 gallons of E85 takes you as far as one gallon of gasoline. Due to the increased volume required and the fact that alcohol is corrosive, fuel system components must be upgraded

• Biodiesel: Biodiesel refers to a vegetable oil or animal fat-based diesel fuel. Blends of biodiesel and conventional hydrocarbon-based diesel are products most commonly distributed for use in the retail diesel fuel marketplace. A system known as the “B” factor is used to state the amount of biodiesel in any fuel mix – 20 percent biodiesel is referred to as B20, for example
  • Advantages– Biodiesel burns cleaner than petrodiesel, with reduced emissions
  • Considerations– Biodiesel may be more expensive than petrodiesel, and in low temperatures may require a special additive or fuel tank heater to flow properly

• CNG (compressed natural gas): CNG is a fossil fuel substitute for gasoline or diesel. It is safer than other fuels in the event of a spill (natural gas is lighter than air, and disperses quickly when released). CNG is made by compressing natural gas, which is mainly composed of methane. It is stored and distributed in hard containers at a pressure of 2,900 to 3,600 psi. CNG is used in traditional gasoline internal combustion engines that have been modified to operate on CNG
  • Advantages– CNG is an extremely clean-burning fuel and significantly reduces CO, CO2 and NOx compared to its gasoline counterpart. CNG has an octane rating of 130 and has the potential to optimize the engine’s thermodynamic efficiency by utilizing a higher compression ratio
  • Considerations– CNG has slightly less energy than gasoline per unit volume and requires a larger fuel tank/container. Refueling time and infrastructure are also considerations

• LPG (liquefied petroleum gas): LPG is a flammable mixture of hydrocarbon gases, most commonly propane and butane. A powerful odorant is added so that leaks can be detected easily. As opposed to relying on foreign oil sources, approximately 90 percent of the United States’ propane supply is produced domestically. Propane is nontoxic and cannot get into the water table if there is a leak in the storage container
  • Advantages– Power, acceleration, payload and cruise speed are comparable to those of an equivalent vehicle fueled with gasoline. Propane has a high octane rating of 104, in between CNG at 130 and unleaded gasoline at 87. Because it burns completely, there is less carbon buildup. Spark plugs, exhaust system and oil changes are needed less frequently
  • Considerations– Because of the low vapor pressure of propane, in extremely cold conditions starting could be an issue

• Hybrid: A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), also known as a plug-in hybrid, is a hybrid vehicle with rechargeable batteries that can be restored to full charge by connecting a plug to an external electric power source. A PHEV shares the characteristics of both a conventional hybrid electric vehicle, having an electric motor and an internal combustion engine, and an all-electric vehicle, also having a plug to connect to the electric grid
  • Advantages– Hybrids offer a greater range than electric-only vehicles and reduced tailpipe emissions. If a charging station is unavailable, the gasoline engine can provide power
  • Considerations– The vehicle essentially has two powertrains. With that comes increased vehicle weight, reduced payload and towing capability

• BEV (battery electric vehicle): A BEV uses chemical energy stored in rechargeable battery packs. As with other electric vehicles, BEVs use electric motors and motor controllers instead of an internal combustion engine for propulsion. The concept utilizes onboard batteries for propulsion and recharges the batteries using the electric grid
  • Advantages– Vehicles that run solely on electric power require no warm-up, run almost silently, and have excellent performance. Electric vehicles can be recharged at night when generating plants are underutilized. Electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions. Even when emissions from the generating plants are factored in, electric vehicles emit less than 10 percent of the pollution of an internal combustion vehicle
  • Considerations– Pure electric vehicles still have limited range – typically no more than 100 to 120 miles. Depending on the charge voltage, most vehicles have to sit overnight for a full charge

Making the switch from a gas engine to gaseous fuel
Ford has developed and tested a CNG/LPG Gaseous Engine Prep Package to be installed by preferred upfitters, who install the CNG/LPG tanks and hardware. The engine comes with hardened exhaust valves and valve seats for improved wear resistance and durability for gaseous fuel systems, and Ford engineers work with the upfit companies to ensure consistent and reliable performance.

The new engine calibration maintains engine operating limits as specified for cylinder pressures, piston temperatures and engine speed, among others. Ford maintains the engine and powertrain warranty (five years/50,000 miles) and the upfitter is responsible for the system component warranty.

Customer-focused alternative-fuel offerings
“Our expanded portfolio of commercial products that can operate on alternative fuels has been developed based on the relationships we have with our customers and a commitment to supporting their sustainability strategies,” said Rob Stevens, chief engineer, Commercial Products. “Going forward, we will continue to maintain this customer-focused strategy in the development of future technologies.”

Milestone: Ford Sells 1 Million Fiestas In Europe!

• One million European sales landmark reached
• Almost a quarter of all global sales are in the UK
• Ford Fiesta has been the best-selling small car in Europe and the UK for the past two years
• Ford's first global car – global sales total 1,140,000  

Brentwood, Essex, March 9, 2011 –  Sales of the latest-generation Ford Fiesta have reached one million in Europe. The landmark was achieved just 28 months after the stylish small car went on sale in Ford dealerships. UK drivers have snapped up almost a quarter of the new Fiesta models, with sales since launch totalling 239,742.

When it first drove out of Ford dealer showrooms in October 2008, the award-winning Ford Fiesta championed a new era in small car design, performance and functionality. Available in three- and five-door bodystyles and a range of fuel-efficient powertrains, it shot up the sales charts to become the best-selling car in the UK in January 2009, regularly challenging Ford Focus for the top UK leadership position.

The Ford Fiesta is produced in Europe in Ford's state-of-the-art assembly plants in Cologne, Germany and Valencia, Spain. It is the most successful European-made small car sold in Europe ever, with cumulative sales totalling 14 million since the car was first launched in 1976.

More recently Ford Fiesta is the first car in its segment to achieve top crash test ratings in each of the world’s largest auto markets that perform safety testing - Europe, the U.S. and China.

Ford’s global safety engineers combined their efforts to ensure the Fiesta would be capable of meeting the most stringent crash protection requirements in any region of the world. Leveraging Ford of Europe’s small car expertise, engineers from Ford of Europe's engineering centres in Cologne, Germany and Dunton, UK, conducted an array of virtual, actual and hydraulic sled-simulated crash tests to ensure this top safety performance.



Who buys the Ford Fiesta in the UK?

• Seventy four per cent of Fiesta drivers choose mid or high range models
• Sales are split 30/70 between three- and five- door models.
• The most popular colour is Panther black.
• Seventy six per cent sold are petrol powered
• Automatic transmission sales are growing and now account for almost 10 per cent of all sales
• ECOnetic sales have grown from two per cent in 2009 to six per cent in 2010
• Fiesta Titanium customers will also now have a Sony radio with CD player, USB and Bluetooth as standard. The Fiesta Titanium already lists many big-car features, including cruise control and automatic headlights. So far this year, 20 per cent of Fiesta customers have chosen to buy top-of-the-range Titanium models.
• The most popular option, Voice Control, Bluetooth and USB, is added by around 42 per cent of Fiesta customers.

Boss 302S Testing

With production scheduled for second quarter of 2011, the engineers at Ford Racing were recently testing the new BOSS 302S at Homestead-Miami Speedway. Features like launch control and pit lane speed limiter were tested as well as different tire compounds. We've put togather a short video of some of the sights and sounds during the two day test.

Knapheide Service Body Training Video - Chaper 3

Taylor Steinberg of Knapheide Manufacturing takes us through the details of the functionality and flexibility of the Knapheide Service/Utility Body. See more at http://www.knapheide.com/.

Knapheide Service Body Training Video - Chapter 2

Taylor Steinberg of Knapheide Manufacturing gives us a great presentation about Knapheide Service/Utility Bodies. This video is 1 of 3 in the series. Check out Knapheide's new website at http://www.knapheide.com/.

We Have Our Own Commercial/Fleet Service Department!

Folsom Lake Ford Fleet Service

2441 Mercantile Dr

Rancho Cordova CA 95742

916-353-2048

Mike Alumbaugh

Fleet & Commercial Service

mike@folsomlakeford.com

916-353-2048 Main Line

916-825-0677 Cell Phone

Brad Weinrick

Fleet & Commercial Service

916-353-2048 Main Line

916-247-7017 Cell Phone

George Norris

Fleet & Commercial Service Manager

georgenorris@folsomlakeford.com

916-353-2048 Main Line

916-417-3088 Cell Phone

Folsom Lake Ford Fleet Service is a separate service department dedicated to fleet & commercial customers. We are located just a few miles from the main dealership. We understand that our clients use their trucks and vehicles for business and that time is of the essence to get regular maintenance or repairs done. We get the job done in the least amount of time necessary.

In addition, Folsom Lake Ford Fleet Service works on most makes of trucks. Our diesel mechanics are trained and certified for Ford, Cummins, CAT, International, and other diesel engines. Our goal is to help you with your entire fleet and make us your one stop service center. Give us a call and see what a difference we can make. We would love to earn your business.

We also work on motor homes, light duty and medium duty trucks.

Knapheide Service Body Training Video - Chapter 1

Taylor Steinberg of Knapheide Manufacturing gives us a great presentation about Knapheide Service/Utility Bodies. This video is 1 of 3 in the series. Check out Knapheide's new website at http://www.knapheide.com/.

Let Mark or Ted give you a quote. Call 916-353-2015, extension 5 or 6.

Easily One Of The Best Buys Within 500 Miles!

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 916-353-2015, 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.

A Virtual Walk Around Of The Ford Stand At The Geneva Motor Show 2011

Highlighting the Ford pillars: Quality, Green, Safe & Smart.
http://facebook.com/FordofEurope
http://twitter.com/FordEu

SPEED Raceday Feature on Wood Brothers Racing

SPEED Raceday highlights the history of Wood Brothers Racing after their monumental 2011 Daytona 500 win

Larry Morgan Pomona Qualifying Recap

Larry Morgan qualified the Lucas Oil Summit Ford Mustang tenth for the 2011 NHRA Winternationals.

New Ford Focus - Introduction Video

Watch a video on the Totally New Ford Focus by Mark Fields. The new Focus is a world platform car from Ford and will be offered with a gas engine, a turbocharged EcoBoost, a traditional hybrid, a plug-in hybrid and a full EV battery electric system.