Sunday, September 30, 2012

John Jraiche: Program Manager Brings the People, Processes and Parts Tog...


Ontario, Canada native John Jraiche is a passionate car enthusiast with a designer's eye, an accountant's feel for the numbers, and the consensus building skills of a long-term mayor. Lucky for Ford that John brings a portfolio of skill sets to the table, fulfilling his role as program manager for Fusion and its global siblings. John was awed by the collaboration he witnessed during Fusion development, while many on the product development team were equally awed by John's passion for product, people and perfection.

Saturday, September 29, 2012

Sam Hoyt: Fusion Marketing Manager Loves Natural and Man-Made Horsepower


Samantha -- Sam to all -- reflects her Houston, Texas upbringing with equal passion for natural and automotive horsepower. A seasoned horsewoman who rides frequently, Sam and her husband also enjoy restoring and driving vintage sports cars. She fervently believes that her automotive enthusiasm, combined with her automotive retail experience in major-market dealerships, give her deeper insights into customer wants and needs.

Friday, September 28, 2012

Ford Gives Consumers 47 More Reasons to Get Involved with Random Acts of Fusion


  • Ryan Seacrest announces “47 Challenges, 47 Days” chapter of Random Acts of Fusion; details available at www.RandomActsofFusion.com
  • Ford announces new Fusion Hybrid attains EPA-certified 47 mpg city and 47 mpg highway for a 47 mpg combined rating, making it America’s most fuel-efficient sedan
  • Random Acts of Fusion is a unique transmedia marketing program that already has introduced Fusion to millions of fans by playing out a story arc through multimedia platforms
 
NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2012 – The number 47 takes center stage today in Times Square with a new Random Acts of Fusion chapter introduced by TV and radio host and producer Ryan Seacrest. The latest chapter, “47 Challenges, 47 Days,” inspired by the 47 mpg fuel economy rating achieved by the 2013 Fusion Hybrid, adds new interactive content to the program and will give consumers multiple chances to win an all-new Ford Fusion.
 
The all-new Fusion Hybrid has earned EPA-certified 47 mpg city and 47 mpg highway for a 47 mpg combined rating, making it America’s most fuel-efficient midsize sedan. The innovative Fusion Hybrid achieves a top speed of 62 mph in EV mode, enabling the stylish hybrid sedan to match city and highway fuel economy ratings.
 
Random Acts of Fusion, the unique transmedia program hosted by Seacrest, has introduced the Fusion to millions of fans by playing out a story arc through multimedia platforms. Fans following the program atwww.RandomActsofFusion.com experience daily storytelling, local market events and now even a chance to win one of three new Fusions. The program always delivers something unexpected – just like the new Fusion. To date, there have been more than 11 million engagements with Random Acts of Fusion.
 
“Through this campaign, we’ve been able to show the Fusion to people with an interactive and entertaining program long before it ever went on sale,” said Crystal Worthem, manager, Ford Brand Content & Alliances. “With these daily challenges and giveaways, we’re taking the next step forward.”
 
The challenges all involve the number 47, and fun and simple photos that participants can take and upload. Each day, a new challenge is unveiled on www.RandomActsofFusion.com. Three winners will be chosen throughout the challenge.
 
“This is another exciting opportunity for people to get involved with Random Acts of Fusion,” says Seacrest. “This challenge offers fans a chance to show off their creativity and win an exceptional vehicle.”
 
The market leader in immersive, participatory and cross-platform entertainment experiences, 42 Entertainment, in association with Team Detroit, plays an integral part in developing Random Acts of Fusion. The program runs through November.
 
All-new Ford Fusion
With its sleek new design, the new Ford Fusion brings alive the next generation of more expressive vehicles from Ford.
 
In addition to its fresh face, Fusion offers the broadest selection of fuel-efficient powertrains in the midsize segment. It offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid alternatives, a pair of EcoBoost® four-cylinder engines, a normally aspirated four-cylinder engine, front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive applications and a choice between automatic and manually shifted six-speed transmissions.
 
On sale this fall, Fusion offers consumers seven must-have technologies, including a Lane-Keeping System, adaptive cruise control, active park assist and MyFordTouch®.
 
The story behind the new Fusion
For more on the new Ford Fusion, check out http://FordFusionStory.com, a special mobile site featuring articles, videos and graphics that are easily shareable directly from a smartphone, tablet or computer browser to Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and blogs.

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Want to Improve Your Love Life? New Survey Suggests Taking a Road Trip Together


  • Survey from YourTango.com, collaborating with Ford, shows couples use road trips for “quality time” that allows them to reconnect
  • Survey also shows most couples have a “back-seat driver” in the relationship, helping the real driver negotiate the road
  • Ford is ready to meet the needs and desires of today’s travelers with sleek, stylish Fusion – it lets drivers bring fun and comfort to the road
DEARBORN, Mich., Sept. 26, 2012 – Taking a road trip with your significant other? Chances are good the time together will improve your relationship.
 
In fact, 91 percent of couples have taken road trips together, and 84 percent agree the experience has strengthened their relationship, according to a new survey of more than 1,000 couples released by YourTango.com collaborating with Ford Motor Company.
 
YourTango.com, the digital leader in love and relationships, found other interesting relationship tidbits in its survey, as well. For instance, plenty of couples have a “back-seat driver” on board who “helps” the real driver negotiate the road:
 
  • 32 percent tell the driver they’re driving too fast
  • 27 percent tell them they’re going the wrong way
  • 22 percent tell them they’re not paying enough attention to their surroundings/traffic
  • 15 percent chide them for driving too slowly
After guiding the driver, the second most popular back-seat driving technique involves physical actions like holding the dashboard or pressing an invisible brake. In third place comes gasping and making other sounds of fright.
 
Finding quality time
Togetherness on the road presents an opportunity for quality time among couples in all sorts of ways.
 
Sixty-three percent of respondents agree or strongly agree they are affectionate with their partner while driving; they hold hands or share a kiss at a red light. Fifty-seven percent say driving is a good time to discuss important topics with their spouse or partner.
 
In fact, respondents said their three favorite ways to pass the time are:
 
  • Talking and catching up with each other (63 percent)
  • Blasting our favorite music (60 percent)
  • Getting some quiet time and taking in the sights (37 percent)
“We were excited to learn Ford is eager to provide couples a space to communicate and enjoy quality time together on the road ‒ such an insightful, worthwhile objective,” says YourTango CEO Andrea Miller. “With so many couples struggling with stress and looking for ways to stay connected, we can now offer a new, easy answer: Try going on a road trip!”
 
The responses to the survey were gratifying to Ford.
 
“Ford has always believed that getting there is more than half the fun; that’s why we’re so excited about the new Fusion,” said Samantha Hoyt, Ford Fusion Marketing manager. “With its sleek styling, comfortable interior and customer-centered technology, it’s all about taking those good times on the road.”
 
Comfort is definitely a factor, agree YourTango respondents. Seventy-three percent say a car’s interior affects their level of comfort on the road; 42 percent say the noises their car makes affects their driving experience; and 77 percent say an upgrade to the features of their vehicle would improve their togetherness in the car.
 
Additional survey findings include:
 
  • 56 percent say the best driving conversations focus on the present – sights, news, other drivers, followed by 19 percent who say the best discussions involve the future: marriage, kids, home buying, etc.
  • 35 percent of couples surveyed have been on eight or more road trips together
  • 68 percent describe their road trips as “fun-filled” or “relaxing”
Survey details and additional insights are available on YourTango.com/LoveOnTheRoad.

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid: Active Noise Cancellation Helps Deliver Quiet Fuel Efficiency


  • All-new 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid delivers EPA-certified 47 mpg city and 47 mpg highway for a 47 mpg combined rating, with Active Noise Cancellation technology
  • Fusion Hybrid engineers tuned the gasoline engine more efficiently in rpm ranges that typically produce unpleasant powertrain sounds, now suppressed by an advanced noise cancellation system to give driver and passengers a quiet ride
DEARBORN, Mich., Sept. 26, 2012 – Powertrain noise in the all-new Ford Fusion Hybrid is like the proverbial tree that fell in the forest. With Active Noise Cancellation technology on board, if you don’t hear it, is it really even there?
 
Active Noise Cancellation technology helps enable the 2013 Fusion Hybrid sedan to deliver EPA-certified 47 mpg city and 47 mpg highway ratings that combine for 47 mpg overall.
 
The fuel economy connection may not be obvious, but Active Noise Cancellation allows Ford engineers to tune the car for more fuel-efficient operation.
 
Calibrating an engine requires careful balance between delivering the desired performance with the lowest possible fuel consumption and emissions, all while keeping it pleasant to drive.
 
“The Fusion Hybrid leverages this advanced technology to help deliver maximum fuel economy for the customer,” said Henry Ford Technical Fellow for NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) Dr. Takeshi Abe. “Reduced powertrain noise in the passenger compartment becomes the icing on the cake.”
 
At the lower speeds that help efficiency, engines produce booming, low-frequency sounds that can be unpleasant to the driver and passengers. Without Active Noise Cancellation, engineers have to keep the engine out of this operating range, sacrificing efficiency.
 
Yet to achieve peak fuel economy, a creative solution must be applied harnessing advanced audio technology to eradicate this unwanted sound.
 
A predictive control system notes driver behavior and how the engine responds, anticipating noise before it is even generated.
 
Three highly sensitive microphones are mounted in the Fusion Hybrid’s interior headliner – two over the first seating row and one over the rear – to detect and measure engine noise. These microphones send a signal to the Active Noise Cancellation control module in real time.
 
The module instantaneously and continuously generates opposing sound waves. This reversed wave is directed through the Fusion Hybrid’s audio system, combining with the original engine noise wave to cancel out any potentially objectionable sound.
 
The combination of the proactive and reactive signals ultimately provides a more pleasing effect for driver and passengers.
 
The infographic below depicts Active Noise Cancellation technology at work, showing the movement pattern of sound travel within the car. The lower panel depicts the cancellation of unwanted sounds, resulting in minimized residual noise.
 
 
The Fusion Hybrid appears in Ford dealerships nationwide this fall.
 
The story behind the new Fusion
For more on the new Ford Fusion, check out http://FordFusionStory.com, a special mobile site featuring articles, videos and graphics that are easily shareable directly from a smartphone, tablet or computer browser to Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and blogs.

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Ford Sets Guinness World Records® Achievement


Ford set a Guinness World Records® achievement last week by holding the world’s largest game of “Red Light – Green Light” to highlight the company’s first use of its fuel-saving Auto Start-Stop technology on a gas-powered vehicle, the new 37-mpg EcoBoost® Fusion. The game was a unique and fun element of an employee celebration at Ford’s Dearborn World Headquarters as part of a five-city U.S. launch of the all-new Fusion. Four hundred and fifty-one employees got the chance to take a trip back to their childhood while participating in “Red Light – Green Light” to showcase the Auto Start-Stop feature that allows Fusion drivers to save fuel and produce fewer emissions when stopped in traffic. The record was made official by Guinness World Records Adjudicator Michael Empric.
 
 

Monday, September 24, 2012

Ford Safety Painter Doubles as Sustainable Mural Artist


Tony Roko, safety painter at Ford, uses repurposed industrial materials to create murals that beautify Ford's plants and factories and create commercial art as well.

Sunday, September 23, 2012

Ford Police Interceptors Prevail in Recent Michigan State Police Testing


  • Ford Police Interceptors proved victorious in speed, acceleration and braking in recent tests by the Michigan State Police
  • The Police Interceptor all-wheel-drive sedan equipped with the EcoBoost® V6 engine outperformed the competition in 0-60 mph, 0-80 mph and 0-100 mph acceleration tests, as well as setting the fastest single lap and average lap times of the week
  • The Police Interceptor utility vehicle posted the fastest times in 0-60 mph and 0-80 mph acceleration tests in addition to posting the fastest single lap and average lap times versus competitive police utility models
 
DEARBORN, Mich., Sept. 21, 2012 – Ford’s new Police Interceptors led the pack in recent testing conducted by the Michigan State Police.
 
The Police Interceptor sedan equipped with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost® V6 engine topped the competition in 0-60 mph, 0-80 mph and 0-100 mph acceleration. These fast closing-in speeds are critical for first responders and law enforcement professionals.
 
In testing at Grattan Raceway, the Ford Police Interceptor with EcoBoost V6 engine and all-wheel drive posted the fastest single lap and best average lap times.
 
Competitors with larger V8 engines could not keep up with the superior advanced engineering of the Ford EcoBoost V6. The purpose-built Police Interceptor is designed to outperform the competition by optimizing handling and control in combination with a high-torque engine and robust brakes.
 
“This year’s testing by the Michigan State Police once again proves Ford Police Interceptors are industry leaders, offering government agencies the desired combination of capability, technology and long-lasting value,” said Lisa Teed, Marketing manager for the Ford Police Interceptor program.
 
The 3.7-liter V6 all-wheel-drive sedan also boasted the shortest stopping distance for all police vehicles tested.
 
The Police Interceptor all-wheel-drive utility vehicle posted top 0-60 mph and 0-80 mph times in the acceleration tests and also achieved the quickest lap times versus competing police utility vehicles. The Police Interceptor utility vehicle combines the performance of a sedan with a larger interior package for agencies that require increased cargo capacity.
 
“We are very proud of the test results,” said Bill Gubing, Ford Police Interceptor chief engineer.
 
“During post-event inspection, the vehicles show proof of purpose-built durability,” he adds. “The status of the tires and brake pads still show useful life, and are ready for more grueling testing.”
 
A tough lineup
Ford’s Police Interceptor engine strategy provides a V6 lineup that performs better than V8 engines of years past. The Police Interceptor sedan lineup now comes with three powertrain options, allowing police to choose the engine that best meets their patrol requirements. The sedan is available with a standard 3.5-liter V6, the new 3.7-liter V6 and the performance powerhouse 3.5-liter V6 EcoBoost – all paired with all-wheel drive as standard equipment.
 
The 3.7-liter V6 engine with 305 horsepower is now available on the all-wheel-drive Police Interceptor sedan and is common with the utility vehicle.
 
A high-capacity six-speed automatic transmission is uniquely calibrated and adapts to pursuit mode for responsiveness to an officer’s demands. All-wheel drive is standard on both sedan and utility vehicle Police Interceptors to optimize handling and control, which is important to meet the needs of first responders in their daily environment.
 
To develop the all-new Police Interceptor, Ford engineers worked hand-in-hand with Ford’s Police Advisory Board of law enforcement professionals, who provided input on key vehicle attributes such as safety, performance, durability, driver comfort and functionality.
 
Building on Ford’s safety leadership, the Police Interceptor is engineered to pass 75-mph rear-end crash testing.
 
Ford Police Interceptor sedan and utility vehicles recently earned top safety ratings in National Highway Traffic Safety Administration New Car Assessment Program testing, which combines vehicle performance in frontal and side-impact crash tests and resistance to rollover.

Friday, September 21, 2012

EV Charging Etiquette


Here's a fun look at EV charging etiquette for drivers of electric plug-in vehicles like the all-new Focus Electric.

Thursday, September 20, 2012

Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Ford Fusion Certified As America’s Most Fuel-Efficient Midsize Sedan


  • All-new Ford Fusion is America’s most fuel-efficient midsize sedan after being certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to deliver 47 mpg city, 47 mpg highway, 47 mpg combined in hybrid model
  • Ford Fusion Hybrid beats Toyota Camry Hybrid by 8 mpg highway, 4 mpg city
  • New Fusion offers greatest powertrain range of all midsize sedans with five engines, including two EcoBoost® options and hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants for true power of choice
 
 
NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2012 – The all-new Ford Fusion is the most fuel-efficient midsize sedan in America with an EPA-certified 47 mpg city, 47 mpg highway and 47 mpg combined fuel economy rating for its hybrid model.
 
Fusion Hybrid tops the Toyota Camry Hybrid by 8 mpg highway and 4 mpg city, and delivers the highest-ever fuel economy numbers in city and highway driving for a midsize sedan.
 
The new Fusion is part of our plan to offer vehicles with the very best quality, fuel efficiency, safety, smart design and value,” says Alan Mulally, Ford president and CEO. “We are absolutely committed to class-leading fuel efficiency as a reason to buy Ford vehicles, with customers able to choose the fuel-efficient powertrain that best fits their lifestyle.”
 
Power of choice: Two EcoBoost engines, one hybrid, one plug-in hybrid
The all-new Fusion brings the widest range of powertrain options to the U.S. midsize segment.
 
Fusion offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants and two fuel-efficient EcoBoost® four-cylinder engines for customers. In addition, Fusion is available with Ford’s patented Auto Start-Stop system, which automatically shuts off the engine at stationary idle to help save customers even more fuel in stop-and-go city driving. Fusion is available in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations with both six-speed automatic and six-speed manual transmissions.
 
Ford is bringing power of choice to midsize sedan buyers,” says Mark Fields, president of The Americas. “More than 2 million customers this year will purchase midsize cars. Our new Fusion delivers the fuel savings people truly want and value, with technologies that cost two to three times the price on some German sedans.”
 
Fuel economy numbers for the remainder of the Fusion lineup are:
 
  • 1.6-liter EcoBoost: 25 mpg city, 37 mpg highway, 29 mpg combined
  • 2.0-liter EcoBoost: 22 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, 26 mpg combined
  • 2.5-liter: 22 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, 26 mpg combined
  • Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid: Projected 100-plus MPGe (miles-per-gallon equivalent)
 
The Fusion equipped with the 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine is available with Ford’s patented, fuel-saving Auto Start-Stop system, which smoothly shuts off engine power when the car is stopped and seamlessly restarts as the driver releases the brake pedal. This feature, available for just $295, improves fuel efficiency by 3.5 percent and reduces emissions.
 
Fusion Hybrid features two additional innovations to help deliver industry-best fuel efficiency: Ford’s patented SmartGauge® with EcoGuide that coaches drivers for top fuel efficiency; and ECO Cruise, a greener cruise control functionality that helps optimize powertrain elements for convenient yet economical highway travel.
 
Fusion Hybrid achieves a top speed of 62 mph in electric or EV mode and also has Active Grille Shutters, which make the car more aerodynamic at highway speeds to improve fuel efficiency. An underbody with aerodynamically designed panels provides even better fuel efficiency.
 
World-class craftsmanship, driving dynamics
The full Fusion range delivers visual quality through improved materials, elevated levels of craftsmanship and attention to detail. To deliver its world-class driving dynamics, Ford engineers equipped Fusion with a specially tuned electric power-assisted steering system, MacPherson strut front suspension and all-new multilink rear suspension that is comparable to the setups found in more expensive Audis and BMWs.
 
Fusion is a driver’s car,” said Raj Nair, group vice president of Product Development. “We have carefully tuned this car to reward the driving expert and flatter the novice.”
 
Ford’s quietest midsize sedan ever, Fusion Hybrid models are equipped with Active Noise Cancellation, which uses the audio system to mitigate powertrain noise.
 
Technology you can use
The all-new Fusion offers an unprecedented portfolio of driver assistance and convenience technologies using sensors, cameras and radar to enable the car to “see” and respond.
 
Fusion can help drivers maintain proper lane position, adjust vehicle speed to changing traffic conditions, identify suitable parking spaces and practically park itself – it can even aid drivers backing out of a parking space in which visibility is obstructed. Specific technologies include:
 
  • Lane-Keeping System: Using a small, forward-facing camera behind the inside rearview mirror, this system “looks” down the road, monitoring lane lines to determine that the car is on course. The system will alert a driver if drowsiness or erratic lane-keeping is detected. The second element warns a driver with a steering wheel vibration if the Fusion drifts too close to lane markings. Finally, Lane-Keeping Aid will actually apply pressure on the steering to help bring the car back into proper lane position
  • Adaptive cruise control: Using forward-looking radar, this system “looks” down the road when activated, slowing the Fusion when slower traffic is detected ahead. The system can help slow the car if the potential of a crash is detected
  • Active park assist: Employing sensors, this technology identifies a suitable parallel parking space, calculates the trajectory, and steers the car to properly position it within the spot. Drivers operate accelerator and brake pedals
  • BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with cross-traffic alert: Sensors in both Fusion rear quarter-panels are able to detect traffic in a driver’s blind spot, providing both audible and visual warnings if traffic is detected. BLIS technology enables cross-traffic alert, warning the driver of oncoming traffic when backing out of a parking space with obstructed views, such as between two large vehicles
 
The all-new Fusion also offers the newest version of Ford’s award-winning SYNC® communications and entertainment system, which enables voice-activated communication through a driver’s mobile phone and interaction with the car’s audio system.
 
Fusion is available with the latest version of MyFord Touch®, allowing a driver to interact with vehicle systems through voice control, a touch screen tap or a conventional button.
 
Both SYNC and MyFord Touch – powered by SYNC – help reduce the potential for driver distraction through voice-controlled functionality, allowing drivers to keep hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.
 
Fusion equals growth
The midsize car segment is the fastest-growing segment in America this year. Overall U.S. industry sales are up 15 percent in 2012, while midsize car sales have grown 26 percent.
 
To meet expected demand for the new Fusion, Ford is adding 1,200 hourly jobs and investing $555 million at its Flat Rock Assembly Plant in Flat Rock, Mich.
 
New Fusion models begin arriving at dealers nationwide this fall.

Monday, September 17, 2012

Steve Parks: Harnessing the Wind at Work and Play'


Ford Aerodynamicist Steve Parks worked with Fusion designers and engineers, tuning the vehicle to smoothly slip through the atmosphere with the least possible aerodynamic drag and helping to improve overall fuel economy. A Grand Rapids, Michigan native, Steve uses the wind to surf with a sail in his kite-boarding hobby. Prior to joining Ford, he applied computational fluid dynamics for Space Shuttle use.

Sunday, September 16, 2012

Guess Who Won The Ford Fusion MPG Challenge Featuring NASCAR Drivers


These famed NASCAR drivers have mastered MPH, but can they master MPG? NASCAR drivers Trevor Bayne, Matt Kenseth, Carl Edwards and Greg Biffle recently got behind the wheel of our new 2013 Fusion with 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine for the Fuel Efficiency Challenge

Saturday, September 15, 2012

Ford Boosts Police Interceptor Sedan Performance and Fuel Economy with New 3.7-Liter Ti-VCT Engine


  • Ford Police Interceptor sedan now available with 3.7-liter twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) engine offering increased power with fuel efficiency
  • Standard all-wheel-drive sedan with 3.7-liter Ti-VCT engine offers EPA-rated 25 mpg on the highway, 18 mpg in the city and a combined 21 mpg – an improvement over current powertrain lineup
  • Both Ford Police Interceptors, sedan and utility vehicle, recently earned top safety ratings in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s New Car Assessment Program testing, which combines vehicle performance in frontal and side-impact crash tests and resistance to rollover
 
 
DEARBORN, Mich., Sept. 13, 2012 –The new Ford Police Interceptor is getting another boost under the hood with the addition of the 3.7-liter twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) engine, offering law enforcement agencies fuel economy with more power.
 
The 3.7-liter V6, now available on the Police Interceptor sedan, delivers a performance increase to 305 horsepower and 279 lb.-ft. of torque while also achieving increased fuel economy of 25 mpg on the highway, 18 mpg in the city and 21 mpg combined. The horsepower and torque ratings are the highest of any naturally aspirated V6 engine offered for pursuit-rated sedans.
 
“This combination of great performance and top-notch fuel economy means law enforcement agencies won’t have to compromise power or fuel efficiency while getting the job done,” said Bill Gubing, chief engineer for Police Interceptor.
 
A tough lineup
Ford’s Police Interceptor engine strategy provides a V6 lineup that performs better than V8 engines of years past. The Police Interceptor sedan lineup now comes with three powertrain options, allowing police to choose the powerhouse that best meets their patrol requirements. The Police Interceptor sedan is available with a standard 3.5-liter V6, the new 3.7-liter V6 and the performance powerhouse 3.5-liter V6 EcoBoost® engine.
 
The 3.7-liter engine now available on the sedan was already available on the Police Interceptor utility vehicle.
 
To develop the all-new Police Interceptor, Ford engineers worked hand-in-hand with Ford’s Police Advisory Board of law enforcement professionals, who provided input on key vehicle attributes such as safety, performance, durability, driver comfort and functionality.
 
Safe, durable, functionalBuilding on Ford’s safety leadership, Police Interceptor is engineered to pass 75-mph rear-end crash testing.
 
Both sedan and utility Police Interceptors recently earned top safety ratings in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s New Car Assessment Program testing, which combines vehicle performance in frontal and side-impact crash tests and resistance to rollover.
 
Throughout its development, Ford’s new Police Interceptor has been put through the paces, undergoing a battery of torture tests to ensure its individual components can hold up to the rigorous driving styles of police professionals.
 
To meet the rigors of durability testing, the unique police brakes have been increased in size and performance for confidence. The cooling package is purpose-built as well, featuring a heavy-duty alternator and larger radiator. Its honeycomb grille is designed to work in harmony with the interior components, offering more airflow throughout the vehicle. Plus, the standard 18-inch steel wheels are vented, designed to work in concert with the enhanced brake system.
 
Front seats have been specially designed, with a lower bolster removed to better accommodate officers’ utility belts. Inserted into the seatback are anti-stab plates, designed to protect front-seat occupants.
 
The Police Interceptor second row also has been optimized to address police-specific needs. The vinyl seats are specially sculpted and set back to improve second-row space and maximize legroom. The back door hinges are modified to open up another 10 degrees versus traditional rear doors.
 
The Ford Police Interceptor also is equipped with a column shift specifically designed so the console area is free for the ever-increasing amounts of aftermarket police equipment necessary for officers to do their jobs.