Fuel-Sipping Fiesta with EcoBoost Engine Grabs Multiple Honors at Texas Auto Writers Association Rally

• Fiesta SE with 1.0-liter EcoBoost® engine wins Sub-Compact Car of Texas title

• Fiesta ST with 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine named Performance Compact Car of Texas and Best Value in the 49-vehicle competition

• 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine selected as Best New Feature by TAWA

• Fusion Energi captures TAWA Green Vehicle title

Ford Fiesta with the award-winning EcoBoost engine won four major categories in a 49-vehicle event at the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) Auto Roundup rally competition held Monday at Texas Motor Speedway.

Named Best Sub-Compact Car of Texas, the 2014 Ford Fiesta with the 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine has an EPA-estimated fuel efficiency rating of 32 mpg city, 45 mpg highway and 37 mpg combined. It is the only vehicle in the subcompact class with an EPA-estimated rating of 45 mpg that produces 120-plus horsepower. TAWA also named the 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine as Best New Feature.

More than 50 Texas auto writers selected Fiesta ST as the Best Value product of the TAWA event while selecting it as Performance Compact Car of Texas. In addition to a precision sport-tuned suspension and improved braking system, Fiesta ST packs a punch under the hood with a new high-output variant of the award-winning 1.6-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine yielding 197 horsepower and 202 lb.-ft. of torque.

Green Vehicle of Texas honors went to the Ford Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid, which delivers a 620-mile total range and up to 21 miles of all-electric range. It is EPA-rated at up to 108 MPGe.

2014 Denver Auto Show: Ford Fusion Test Drive

Get up close and personal with the 2014 Ford Fusion as Denise and Mike take it out for a test drive.

2014 Denver Auto Show: Ford Showcase

Take a look at the 2015 Ford F-150, Super Duty, Transit Connect, Expedition, and the Ford Mustang.

2015 Ford Super Duty: Battle of the Heavyweights

Watch how the 2015 Ford Super Duty takes on its competitors in the Battle of the Heavyweights.

The First Ford Mustang Owner - April 1964

Meet Gail Brown, the owner of the first Ford Mustang, purchased on April 15, 1964. Nearly 50 years later, she and her husband Tom still own the same baby blue Ford Mustang convertible.

Innovative Software Gives Racers Industry-Exclusive Performance Feature for All-New 2015 Ford Mustang GT

• Ford leverages advanced controls technology to give drag racers electronic line-lock – an industry-first performance feature standard on the all-new Ford Mustang GT
  
• Electronic line-lock will give drag racers the benefit of a mechanical system without having to modify the brakes of 2015 Mustang GT
  

• Electronic line-lock along with standard launch control should help bracket racers achieve more consistent performance at the drag strip
  

Ford engineers are leveraging state-of-the-art controls software technology to give some of the most avid Mustang customers an industry-first feature – electronic line-lock.

“Competition has been an integral part of the Ford Mustang lifestyle since its earliest days 50 years ago,” said Steve Ling, Ford car marketing manager. “We know our customers, and we wanted to provide a unique feature for those wishing to take full advantage of the increased capability offered by this new Mustang GT at the drag strip.”

Mustang has run everything from rally to stock car racing, but with drag racing a particularly popular venue for grassroots competitors, electronic line-lock on every 2015 Ford Mustang GT should be a real benefit for customers who like to compete one-quarter mile at a time.

“We’re using advanced controls technology for the all-new Mustang to provide some of our most dedicated fans with an industry-first feature they can use when they go to the track,” said Dave Pericak, Mustang chief engineer. “With electronic line-lock, customers who drive their Mustangs to work all week and then compete on the weekends will appreciate not having to modify their brake systems to be able to do effective tire prep at the drag strip.”

The flexibility of track apps, launch control and selectable drive modes makes it easy for Mustang drivers to get the right capabilities for any situation.

As one of the most exciting and accessible forms of motorsport, drag racing – in particular, bracket racing – has always been a great fit for the powerful, rear-wheel-drive Mustang. Drag strips are often open during warm weather weekends for amateur competitors to bring out their factory stock or modified cars to run against the clock.

Consistency pays off in bracket racing, where competitors try to get as close as possible to their predicted quarter-mile times without going faster. Electronic line-lock and launch control – also standard on Mustang GT with manual transmission – can help drivers achieve more consistent performance from run to run.

With the electronic line-lock feature enabled, when a driver releases the brake pedal, the hydraulic control unit for the stability control system will keep the front brakes locked while releasing the rear brakes. When Mustang is sitting in the burnout box of a drag strip, the driver can apply the accelerator to spin up the rear wheels to warm the tires for maximum grip. This can all be done without having to balance one foot on the brake and the other on the gas, or install a mechanical line-lock.

With the tires properly warmed up, drivers can pull up to the staging line, engage launch control, and get a perfect catapult as soon as the lights go green.

“Whether a customer wants to take weekend road trips, go road racing or compete in grassroots drag racing, we aim to maximize the driving experience for everyone,” said Pericak. “Mustang offers selectable drive modes for those who prefer to compete on road courses or in autocross events, so when we realized we could provide a really cool feature like electronic line-lock that no one else offers, the decision was easy – ‘Let’s do it!’”
 
Electronic line-lock for 2015 Mustang GT is intended for use only on racetracks. Racing your vehicle will void your warranty.

More Squeegee, Less Stops.

The Ford Fiesta, when equipped with the available 1.0L EcoBoost® engine, has best-in-class highway fuel economy.*

*EPA-estimated rating of 32 city/45 hwy/37 combined mpg. Actual mileage will vary. Class is Subcompact Cars.

Introducing Line Lock for the 2015 Ford Mustang GT

Ford Mustang chief engineer Dave Pericak and stability control engineer Scott Mlynarczyk describe the latest feature addition to Track Apps, electronic line lock. Competition has always been part of the Mustang lifestyle and line lock takes advantage of the hardware and software in the 2015 Mustang GT to provide an industry first feature for drivers that opt to take their cars to the local drag strip.

Building the Ford Transit Skyliner Concept Vehicle

The Ford Transit Skyliner Concept luxury van illustrates the unlimited flexibility, versatility and capability of the all-new Transit, which goes on sale this summer. Transit Skyliner embodies the spirit of luxury motor coaches and builds on the heritage of custom vans, showing how Ford Transit can be transformed to fit the needs of limousines and high-end transportation services as well as commercial fleets, shuttle providers and small-business owners.

Ford Mustang Returns to New York to Celebrate 50 Years; 1967 Shelby GT500 Mustang Fastback Wins Best in Show

• Ford executives bring the all-new Mustang to the site of the 1964 World’s Fair, where the original Mustang debuted 50 years ago

• Hundreds of area Mustang club enthusiasts celebrate the iconic pony car, with 94 classic Mustangs on display in front of the Unisphere at Flushing Meadows Park

• 1967 Shelby GT500 Mustang fastback owned by David Davidson is chosen by Moray Callum, Ford vice president of design, as best in show

Ford Mustang fans and company executives gathered at Flushing Meadows Park in Queens, N.Y. today to celebrate 50 years of the iconic sports car that debuted on the grounds of the 1964 World’s Fair. In addition to the all-new 2015 Mustang, 94 cars from New York-area Mustang clubs were brought to the plaza in front of the Unisphere, where Moray Callum, Ford vice president of design, chose a 1967 Shelby GT500 Mustang fastback as best in show.

“It’s a great feeling to be here at Flushing Meadows 50 years to the day after Ford unveiled the original Mustang at the 1964 World’s Fair,” said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, global product development. “Seeing the devotion that owners put into caring for these amazing classic Mustangs reinforces why we put so much passion and effort into making the all-new 2015 Mustang great.”

Visitors to the World’s Fair on April 17, 1964 were among the first in the world to see Mustang on display at the Ford Rotunda pavilion. That same day, Americans stampeded into Ford dealerships to buy a Mustang. By the end of the day, more than 22,000 Mustangs had been purchased or ordered, a breathtaking start to one of the greatest product launches in history.

“Standing where my grandfather, Henry Ford II, stood to reveal Mustang five decades ago is both humbling and inspiring – especially since we are launching the next 50 years of Mustang at Ford Motor Company,” said Ford Vice President Elena Ford, leader of the Global Dealer and Consumer Experience organization. “Since then, Mustang has become the heart and soul of Ford Motor Company, and a symbol of my great-great-grandfather Henry Ford’s vision of putting the world on wheels.”

After walking among the 94 classic Mustangs brought out by club members, Callum narrowed the selections down to these three:

• 1965 Mustang K-Code convertible, owned by Teresa and Steve Kronred
• 1971 Mustang Mach 1 fastback, owned by Steven Chernow
• 1967 Shelby GT500 Mustang fastback, owned by David Davidson

“Great sports cars are living, breathing machines that reflect both their drivers and their creators,” said Callum. “Like a living organism, they must change and adapt or become extinct, and that evolution is on display today, showing how Mustang has adapted while retaining its essence.”

Callum chose a blue 1967 Shelby GT500 Mustang fastback owned by Davidson as best in show. Davidson was presented with a unique prize, a Ford design studio model painted Race Red and used to evaluate exterior colors. Following the presentation, it was personally autographed by Elena Ford, Nair and Callum.

“I’ve owned many Mustangs over the years, but I’m just amazed to get this honor from the Ford design team,” said Davidson. “I’ve owned this GT500 for three years and it only has 40,000 original miles. It’s fantastic to drive.”

“Mustang has an incredibly rich heritage, and as we celebrate 50 years at Ford, we are focused on making the next 50 years even better,” said Nair.

Taking the 'Pedi to the Metal' – OPI Unveils Ford Mustang Nail Lacquer Collection

• 50^th anniversary of Ford Mustang inspires new OPI nail lacquer collection

• Limited-edition collection capturing spirit, passion and excitement of Ford Mustang will be available in U.S. stores in July

• Six standout hues debut, including hero color Race Red, 50 Years of Style, Queen of the Road, Girls Love Ponies, Angel with a Leadfoot and The Sky’s My Limit

OPI and Ford Motor Company are going full throttle and taking the “pedi to the metal” with the official launch of the limited-edition nail lacquer collection inspired by the popular Ford Mustang. The OPI Ford Mustang collection features six Mustang-inspired shades that are set to hit U.S. stores in July.

Coinciding with Mustang 50^th anniversary celebrations this year, OPI marks the milestone with a standout collection of colors – all capturing the spirit, passion and excitement of Ford Mustang.

“For five decades, Mustang has represented some of the best of American culture, inspiring a feeling of freedom and independence,” says Melanie Banker, Mustang marketing manager. “We are excited to celebrate the iconic Ford Mustang with OPI and tell its story through color.”

Pony-up with color

Developed by OPI Co-Founder and EVP Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, the collection uniquely expresses the spirit of Mustang.

“Nail color, just like the car she drives, is the ultimate expression of a woman’s personality,” says Weiss-Fischmann. “Automobiles are synonymous with style, and there is a special kind of love affair between a woman and her car.

“These lacquers celebrate a woman’s pursuit of excitement and invite OPI fans to accentuate their personal style and embrace Mustang’s adventurous spirit through color,” she adds.
Ford Mustang by OPI includes these six limited-edition shades:

• Race Red: The hero color of the collection, Race Red pays tribute to one of Mustang’s signature colors and brings to life the passion and excitement of the iconic car
• 50 Years of Style: Just like Mustang, celebrate all your milestones with this made-to-party golden pearl
• Queen of the Road: Inspired by Mustang’s dramatic and perfectly appointed cabin, a black interior evokes sophistication and will always be a classic – just like the little black dress
• Girls Love Ponies: A woman is multifaceted; this grown-up pink acts as a reminder of her femininity, even as she takes to the wheel of the powerful pony
• Angel with a Leadfoot: Drive up and say “halo” to this celestial white. Whether worn alone or as an accent, white is essential to a woman’s wardrobe and to making a statement
• The Sky’s My Limit: There is nothing like the freedom of the open road and shimmering, endless blue sky. This aqua hue awakens a woman’s sense of adventure and is a trend shade for summer going into the fall.
•  

“Color is very personal to people and to how they express themselves,” said Susan Lampinen, Group Chief Designer, Color and Material, Ford Motor Company. “Similarly, color plays a key role in defining the character of a vehicle: Mustang paint colors need to denote performance, sportiness, and power. They are expressive, bold and eye-catching colors, like the ones chosen for this limited edition collection.”

Celebrating an icon

In April, Ford Mustang will become the newest member of a very exclusive club – vehicles in continuous production for 50 years. Over the last five decades, Mustang has gained worldwide popularity and become an enduring part of pop culture with more than 9.2 million Mustangs sold and more than 3,300 appearances on film and TV – including its latest big-screen appearance as the hero car in “Need for Speed.”

Mustang’s unique combination of style, performance and affordability established an entirely new class of sporty car. Now, the most advanced version yet, the 2015 model features an all-new, sophisticated design and a host of innovative new technologies and connectivity systems.

Ford Mustang by OPI nail lacquer shades each feature OPI’s exclusive ProWide^™ Brush for the ultimate in application. The collection will be available in July at professional salons, including Beauty Brands, Beauty First, Chatters, Dillard’s, jcp Salons, Pure Beauty, Regis, Trade Secret, ULTA and ulta.com for a suggested retail price of $9.50.

Ford Mustang Celebrates 50th Birthday with Guinness World Records Title

 
 

• Ford Mustang turns 50 today, and enthusiasts worldwide are celebrating

• More than 50,000 fans of the iconic pony car helped Ford make history by establishing the first Guinness World Records^® title for the most signatures on an electronic birthday card

• Celebrations are taking place worldwide, including a display of the all-new Ford Mustang convertible on the observation deck of the Empire State Building in New York and large gatherings of fans in Charlotte, N.C., Las Vegas, Beijing, Dubai, Melbourne and Toronto

Ford Motor Company set a Guinness World Records^® title as more than 50,000 fans worldwide signed an electronic card to celebrate the 50^th birthday of the all-new Ford Mustang.

Mustang fans were invited to sign the electronic card, and the response was immediate and enthusiastic. In all, 55,720 people across the globe logged on to Ford’s website, leaving messages of enthusiasm and adoration for the iconic pony car.

“Mustang is an inspirational car, and it is no surprise its fans worldwide have been inspired to help make history on this very special occasion,” said Steve Ling, car marketing manager at Ford. “After an exciting week of celebrations globally, the Guinness World Records title is an extraordinary exclamation point on Mustang’s birthday today.’’

Beginning April 9, people from more than 160 countries visited Ford’s website in an effort to achieve the Guinness World Records title. Participation peaked the next day, with 10,534 people sending birthday wishes. Yesterday, one week into the attempt, the 50,000-signature goal Ford set was met.

“It is my honor to be the official Guinness World Records adjudicator for Ford Mustang’s 50^th birthday and to award Ford the Guinness World Records title for the most contributions to an e-greeting card celebrating the occasion,” said Johanna Hessling, adjudicator for Guinness World Records. “We wish Mustang many more milestone birthdays in the future!”

The top 10 countries participating in achieving the record are the United States, Canada, Germany, United Kingdom, Spain, Australia, Brazil, France, Mexico and Italy.
Mustang fans were effusive in their greetings.

“Happy 50^th birthday to one of the best cars in history, the Ford Mustang!!” wrote Kevin. “You only get better with age. Here’s to 50 more.”

Shayne wrote: “Happy birthday to the Mustang, you have been my favorite car as long as I can remember and you single handedly brought me to the Ford side.”

Over five decades, Mustang has become one of the most popular cars worldwide, with more than 9 million units sold and more than 6.2 million Facebook fans.

Fifty years ago today, Mustang went on sale, after being introduced ahead of the 1964 World’s Fair in New York. Across the globe, fans have been celebrating the milestone.

Yesterday and today, Ford is displaying a 2015 Mustang convertible on the observation deck of the Empire State Building in Manhattan. Mustang Club of America is marking the birthday with convoys of Mustangs road-tripping across the country and culminating in celebrations at Charlotte Motor Speedway in North Carolina and Las Vegas Motor Speedway in Nevada. A Ford employee celebration is happening today at Ford World Headquarters in Dearborn, Mich.

Available globally for the first time, the 2015 Mustang is the most advanced version yet, with a sleek new design for the fastback and convertible. The car is backed by world-class performance from several engine options, including a new turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost^® and an upgraded 5.0-liter V8 producing more than 420 horsepower. Customers can opt for state-of-the-art connectivity technologies, including an advanced driver-assist system, track apps, launch control and more.

The 2015 Ford Mustang goes on sale this fall in North America.

Building a 2015 Ford Mustang on top of the Empire State Building

After weeks of preparation, the Ford team finally arrived at the Empire State Building late on the evening of April 14, 2014 with a truckload of parts that would eventually make up a 2015 Mustang convertible. The first night was spent unloading the truck and transferring everything up to the 86th floor in pleasant, early spring conditions.

However, the second night, which was dedicated to assembling the car came with a weather encore of one of the worst winters in decades. Watch as a dedicated crew battles mother nature to build a car 1,000 feet above the streets of Manhattan.

Ford Pays Homage to Five Decades of the World's Favorite Pony Car with Mustang 50 Year Limited Edition

• The 50 Year Limited Edition builds on the all-new 2015 Ford Mustang GT fastback and will be available in either Wimbledon White or Kona Blue

• Special-edition Mustang comes standard with nearly every available option; the only choice customers have to make is color, and manual or automatic transmission

• 2015 Mustang 50 Year Limited Edition will be available in fall 2014; only 1,964 examples will ever be built

Fifty years after debuting one of the world’s most popular cars, Ford is marking the milestone by revealing a Mustang 50 Year Limited Edition. Created to honor five decades of Mustang heritage, only 1,964 examples of the 50 Year Limited Edition will ever be built when it goes on sale this fall.

“When Mustang was approved for development more than 50 years ago, I don’t think anyone imagined it would spawn such a dedicated base of fans around the world and still be in production today,” said Bill Ford, executive chairman, Ford Motor Company. “We are thrilled to be here in New York – where Mustang was first shown to the public at the 1964 World’s Fair – to re-create that historic event for today’s Mustang enthusiasts.”

Based on the all-new 2015 Mustang GT fastback with performance pack, the 50 Year Limited Edition is designed to provide customers with outstanding performance and a unique appearance that will be instantly recognizable on the road. The only options for the 50 Year Limited Edition are the choice of two exclusive colors and a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.

 

50 years of inspiration

“The new Mustang blends a muscular, contemporary shape with design cues that define it as quintessentially Mustang,” said Moray Callum, Ford vice president of design. “The 50 Year Limited Edition adds details that set it apart from other Mustangs, while hearkening back to the 1965 original.”

The only two available colors are Wimbledon White, like Mustang serial No. 0001 that was first sold to Capt. Stanley Tucker in April 1964, or Kona Blue. Both are exclusive to this limited-edition car.
“Chrome trim was much more prevalent on cars in the 1960s than it is today, so we added some discreet highlights for the grille, side glass and tri-bar taillamps,” said Callum. “The darker Kona Blue provides a particularly striking contrast against the chrome.”

Chrome bezels surrounding the base of each of the three taillamp blades take inspiration from the original 1962 design proposal by Gale Halderman that became the basis for the production model that debuted in 1964. The three individual lamps on each side of that design were combined into a single tri-bar lamp cluster for production, but the original concept has returned five decades on. The Mustang 50 Year Limited Edition will be the only 2015 model with the large faux gas cap badge on the rear fascia, with 50 Years added to the GT designation.

Another visual element that won’t be found on any other Mustang is the louvered rear quarter-windows. Unlike the external louvers on the quarter-windows of the 1965 fastback, the new windows are comprised of layered sheets of glass built with a construction technique uniquely developed for this car.

Unique cockpit experience

From behind the wheel, drivers will know they are driving a very special car. The aluminum trim panel that spans the double-brow instrument panel gets an axel spin finish different from other 2015 Mustangs, plus a special serialized 50 Year Limited Edition badge on the passenger side. Each badge will be individually etched at Flat Rock Assembly Plant where Mustang is built.

The limited-edition is the only 2015 Mustang with a cashmere-stitched, leather-wrapped steering wheel. The stitching is also used on the instrument panel, shifter boot, center armrest, door inserts and seats. The seats feature exclusive two-tone cashmere and black leather upholstery, and the Mustang 50 Year logo on the seat backs.

Limited-edition cars will be equipped with loop-carpet floor mats with cashmere stitching and suede binding not available on other Mustangs.

A showpiece meant to be driven

“Mustang fans love to drive their cars, even the rarer examples of the breed, so we built this limited-edition from the best-performing 2015 Mustang available – the GT fastback with the performance pack,” said Dave Pericak, Mustang chief engineer. “While some collectors will undoubtedly stash this car away in a museum, those who choose to hit the open road will get a world-class sports car that can run with the best.”

Powered by the upgraded 5.0-liter V8 engine delivering more than 420 horsepower and 390 lb.-ft. of torque, every 50 Year Limited Edition will be equipped with the Mustang GT performance pack that includes massive six-piston Brembo front brakes and 19-inch alloy wheels with high-performance Y-speed-rated Pirelli P-Zero summer tires.

The 19-inch alloy wheels feature a unique Y-spoke design inspired by the chromed steel wheels that were offered on the original Mustang 50 years ago. The front wheels are 9.0 inches wide with 255/40R tires, while the staggered rear wheels are 9.5 inches wide with 275/40R tires.

The 50 Year Limited Edition is the only 2015 Mustang that will be available with a combination of an automatic transmission and the performance pack. When equipped with the six-speed automatic transmission, the Mustang 50 Year Limited Edition will get a limited-slip rear differential with a 3.55:1 final-drive. Customers who opt for the six-speed manual will get a Torsen differential with a 3.73:1 final-drive ratio.

The 50 Year Limited Edition car will be among the first 2015 Mustangs built when production begins later this year. Each of the 1,964 50 Year Limited Edition Mustangs will get a unique owner’s guide in a leather portfolio with the 50 Year badge on the outside.

“We wanted to provide our most dedicated fans with the emotion of the original Mustang in a 21^st century car,” said Ford. “With this 50 Year Limited Edition, I believe we have accomplished our goal.”

Watch the 2015 F-150 survive ovens, freezers and salt. With some acid thrown in.

Ford engineers tested the ever loving snot out of the new F-150 to help measure its durability. In labs and in the real world, the truck was shaken, beaten and coated with corrosives. Over and over. Watch to see what happened.

Ford Reveals All-New Focus Sedan, Retains World's Best-Selling Nameplate Title for 2013

• Ford Focus ranks as the best-selling vehicle nameplate in the world, based on just-released Polk new vehicle registration data for the 2013 calendar year

• Focus gains momentum with 50 percent sales growth in Chinese market

• New Focus four-door sedan globally unveiled, featuring leading combination of technology, fuel economy and power

Ford Focus retains its title as world’s best-selling vehicle nameplate for 2013, according to Ford analysis of the just-released full-year Polk new vehicle registration data from IHS Automotive. The news comes as a new Focus four-door sedan prepares to make its debut at next week’s 2014 New York International Auto Show.

Registrations of the compact Focus were up 8.1 percent with 1,097,618 cars sold worldwide last year. That compares with global Focus sales of 1,014,965 in 2012.

Market gains for Focus continue to be driven by consumer demand in China. China registrations were up 50 percent in 2013 to 403,219 vehicles, up from 268,354 vehicles in 2012. China now is responsible for just more than one out of three Focus vehicles sold globally, based on Polk data.

The debut of the new Focus four-door sedan and the Focus Electric in New York follows the Geneva Motor Show debut in March of the Focus five-door hatchback. A new version of the performance Focus ST will be shown later this year.

The redesigned Ford Focus offers a bolder exterior design, a more intuitive and upscale interior, a host of technologies uncommon for a compact car and the additional powertrain option of Ford’s award-winning 1.0-liter EcoBoost^® engine with a new six-speed manual transmission in the U.S.-spec Focus. While U.S. EPA fuel economy ratings are not yet available, Ford expects the 1.0-liter EcoBoost Focus to raise the bar in fuel efficiency among non-hybrid compact vehicles.

For 2015, Focus adds an SE Sport Package, which includes new body treatments, paddle shifters (requires automatic transmission), a revised touring suspension, 17-inch black gloss aluminum wheels and P215/50 HR-17 tires.

The paddle shift feature provides drivers an additional element of control by allowing them to simulate the manual gear selection aspects of a manual transmission and extract more power from their engines.

Also notable for 2015, Ford’s popular MyKey^® feature will be standard on all trim levels. An all-new heated steering wheel will be available as well as 10 different wheels as factory options.

“It is remarkable to see Focus again lead the industry as the No. 1-selling vehicle nameplate on the planet,” said Jim Farley, Ford executive vice president, Ford Motor Company Global Marketing, Sales and Service and Lincoln. “With the new car, we’ve raised the bar again, showcasing Ford’s commitment to continuous improvement – adding better technology for drivers and a sleeker, more modern exterior across the entire Focus family.”

While the latest Focus is essentially the same worldwide, color preference varies. In the U.S. market, Sterling Gray is the most popular at 21 percent of sales, with Tuxedo Black second at 15 percent. In China, Crystal Solid White is overwhelmingly the most popular with just more than 50 percent of sales. Candy Red is second at 17 percent.

Fiesta world’s best-selling subcompact

Ford’s analysis of Polk new vehicle registrations also confirms Ford Fiesta earned the top spot as the best-selling subcompact car globally, with 735,299 registrations for 2013.

Together, registrations of Ford’s small cars – Fiesta and Focus – totaled 1,832,917 vehicles last year, which is a 4.3 percent increase from 2012.

Award-winning 1.0-liter EcoBoost

In addition to a host of styling and technology advances, the new Focus will offer the efficient, fun-to-drive 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine with a six-speed manual transmission. Automotive journalists globally named it International Engine of the Year for 2012 and 2013.

“The 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine is proof that excellent fuel economy and performance can come in one package,” said Raj Nair, group vice president, Ford Global Product Development. “Focus is already known for bringing together efficiency and fun, and our latest offering will bring consumers a whole new level of enjoyment – on the road and in what they’ll save at the pump.”

The smallest engine in Ford’s growing EcoBoost family – already available in Fiesta - will come standard in Focus with an Auto Start-Stop feature that automatically shuts down the engine at stops and instantly turns it back on at takeoff.

EcoBoost technology combines smaller-displacement engines with turbocharging, direct injection, variable valve timing and proprietary Ford software to bring customers outstanding performance and fuel economy. Ford EcoBoost engines can deliver significantly better fuel economy than larger-displacement gasoline engines.

New Focus customers also will enjoy a quieter ride, achieved by thicker carpets and side window glass and improved engine-bay insulation.

Stylish new Focus

The new Focus arrives with a bolder look. It features a restyled hood and grille, signature LED lighting for headlamps and taillamps, new rear lamp clusters and a restyled trunk lid. Four-door and five-door versions will be available in the United States.

Inside, colors and materials have a clean, modern look, with satin chrome detailing, new seat trims and switches, and an available heated steering wheel. A new center console incorporating adjustable cupholders improves storage capacity.

Advanced technologies

A package of sensors brings a new level of convenience for compact car customers by adding driver-assist technologies, including a rear view camera, available Blind Spot Information System and a lane-keeping system.

Standard on Focus for the first time, the rearview camera will appear on either a 4.2-inch screen or the 8-inch screen that comes with MyFord Touch^®-equipped cars.

BLIS^® uses two advanced multiple-beam radar modules, the same used with cross-traffic alert, which are packaged in both rear quarter panels. The radar identifies when a vehicle enters the defined blind spot zone and illuminates an indicator light on the corresponding sideview mirror, providing a warning that a vehicle is approaching.

Should a Focus driver start to drift out of the current lane without a turn signal activated, the lane-keeping system provides a warning through a series of steering wheel vibrations that mimic a rumble strip. If the unintended lane departure is not corrected by the driver, the aid function of the system actively applies steering to help the driver direct the car back toward the center of the current lane.

The new Focus benefits from advancements in exterior styling, interior design, powertrain and technology, as well as suspension and chassis upgrades.

These include a new shock absorber valve design providing improved interior quietness, and a change to the rear suspension to give drivers a more connected feel to the road. The electric power-assisted steering has been retuned to make the driver feel even more connected to the road.

Enhanced SYNC AppLink

Focus drivers will have access to powerful new capabilities thanks to a host of functions developers can integrate as they modify their apps to communicate with enhanced SYNC^® AppLink^™.
Android and iOS smartphone users can download more than 60 AppLink-enabled apps from the Apple App Store and Android market.

New functions include:

• Connected apps can access a variety of real-time vehicle data such as speed, acceleration, odometer and location information that can be used by the app to further customize and personalize the owner experience. For example, access to the in-vehicle GPS signal can enable more precise and accurate location-based services than phone sensors
• More consistent user experience thanks to voice pass-through capability. This enables developers to use on-device or cloud-based voice-recognition systems to evaluate driver commands, meaning drivers can use the same set of voice commands to control an app when connected to the vehicle as they would use when not connected
• Notifications read aloud as a driver enters the car, with no need to touch the phone. Best of all, alerts are available any time a mobile device is connected to SYNC AppLink, even if the app is not currently active. This means a driver could get an alert about a traffic jam ahead while listening to the radio or using another app

Ford builds the Focus in eight manufacturing plants on four continents. Facilities in Germany, the United States, Russia, China, Vietnam, Thailand, Taiwan and Argentina have a combined capacity to build more than 1.5 million Focus cars annually at a rate of more than two per second.

Since the launch of Focus in 1998, the best-selling vehicle nameplate in the world for two years running has sold more than 12 million vehicles globally.

Ford Earns Kelley Blue Book Brand Image Award for Best Truck Brand

Ford Motor Company will be honored as Kelley Blue Book’s Best Overall Truck Brand at the New York International Auto Show on April 16. The kbb.com Brand Image Award acknowledges an automaker’s accomplishments in developing and upholding brand characteristics that are embraced by the market.

Ford Transit Skyliner Concept Is a Private Jet on Wheels

• Concept based on the all-new Ford Transit, showcasing vehicle’s capability and flexibility

• Custom luxury motor coach designed with Ford Motor Company and built by Galpin Auto Sports provides immersive comfort and luxury

• Four dynamic experience modes – theater, business, reception and travel – transform Skyliner’s environment and make the most of Ford Transit’s 487 cubic feet of interior space

The future of ultra-premium land transportation is here, and it comes with a spacious interior that morphs to support an immersive entertainment experience or a business meeting with the swipe of a smartphone.

Ford today unveils the Transit Skyliner Concept luxury van, illustrating the unlimited flexibility, versatility and capability of the all-new Transit, which goes on sale this summer.

Transit Skyliner embodies the spirit of luxury motor coaches and builds on the heritage of custom vans, showing how Ford Transit can be transformed to fit the needs of limousines and high-end transportation services as well as commercial fleets, shuttle providers and small-business owners.

Inside, Transit Skyliner can transform into four dramatic modes – theater, business, reception and travel – with movable custom-designed “throne” seats that reposition automatically, controlled by a smartphone or tablet:

• Theater: Seats face the 52-inch retractable Stewart movie screen and recline for optimal cinematic viewing
• Business: Motorized table unfolds and leather-trimmed seats are gathered around it for face-to-face conversation
• Reception: Sliding door opens four feet wide and seats are arranged for easy entertaining while parked at an event
• Travel: Passengers can adjust their reclining seats and retractable footrests for ultimate comfort and solitude

The entire interior – from seats to LED mood lighting – is integrated into a Crestron automation system controlled through a smartphone or tablet. The entertainment system also features Focal Utopia 7.2 surround sound with speakers handmade in France specifically for Transit Skyliner, a KVH DIRECTV satellite for HD TV and a Kaleidescape media server with storage space equivalent to more than 300 Blu-ray movies or more than 1,000 DVDs.

Refreshments can be served from Transit Skyliner’s built-in bar. Matching custom luggage complements the vehicle’s one-of-a-kind leather-trimmed seats.

“Traveling in Transit Skyliner is an experience unlike any other” says Tim Stoehr, Ford manager for commercial truck marketing. “You step into the vehicle and are immediately immersed in the custom interior and high-tech audiovisual environment. The next thing you know, you are arriving at your destination.”

The exterior of Transit Skyliner features a custom silver metallic paint scheme accented by contrasting lower trim, chrome highlights and custom Forgiato wheels. The dynamic design reflects Transit’s modern, European look.

“Transit Skyliner is the ultimate expression of a custom Transit,” Stoehr says. “We created the vehicle to highlight the potential of the Ford Transit platform for the limousine market and to showcase Transit as the next generation of modern, cool, fuel-efficient vans.”

Transit Skyliner features the 3.5-liter EcoBoost^® engine available on Ford Transit.

With 487 cubic feet of cargo volume and an interior height of 81.5 inches in the long wheelbase/extended body high-roof model, Transit can be personalized to create a private jet for the road. Its unique custom limo design proves the capabilities of Ford Transit go beyond the needs of shuttles, commercial fleets and general contractors.

The 2015 model year Transit will offer two wheelbases, three roof heights and three powertrains to accommodate multiple needs without body modifications.

The exterior design for the Transit Skyliner originated out of Ford of Europe’s Design Studio in Dunton, England, and its execution was led by Melvin Betancourt, a Ford design manager, and Galpin Auto Sports President Beau Boeckmann.

Galpin Ford is the world’s largest Ford dealership and has a history of customizing vehicles that spans more than 60 years. Ford approached Galpin for this project because the group was at the forefront of the customized van trend of the late 1960s and 1970s and was among the pioneers in launching the conversion van industry. Galpin remains a longtime leader in conversion vans.

“We are sincerely excited to work with Ford in creating the future of luxury travel,” said Galpin Auto Sports’ Boeckmann. “Tapping our history of creating the conversion van segment in the 1960s and ’70s, as well as our recent high-tech work, together with Ford we have brought the modern ultra-premium van to life.

“Galpin is especially excited about the launch of the Transit, which builds on Ford’s commercial van leadership with a new design, making it the perfect platform from which to modify,” Boeckmann added.

Transit Skyliner will make its auto show debut at the New York International Auto Show on April 16 at Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.

Ford Mustang Fans Everywhere Are Invited to Sign a Card for Their Favorite Car's Birthday and Help Set a World Record

• Ford Mustang fans are invited to sign the electronic birthday card marking 50 years of their favorite car

• Fans can help set a new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS^® title for most contributions on an electronic card with more than 50,000 signatures and messages

• 50 Years of Mustang will be celebrated at a variety of events in several locations

Ford Mustang is turning 50 next week and fans everywhere are invited to sign an electronic birthday card. Everyone who wants to help commemorate 50 years of Mustang can customize and add their own birthday message for their favorite car at http://action.ford.com/page/s/mustang-50.

Over the course of five decades Mustang has become one of the most popular cars in both the offline and online worlds, with sales of more than 9 million units and more than 6.2 million fans on Facebook. Mustang fans can participate in a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS official attempt by signing the card, leaving a message and sharing the link on social media. 50,000 signatures and messages are needed to set new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title.

“The spirit of Mustang infuses everything we do at Ford,” said Steve Ling, car marketing manager. “Mustang inspires a feeling of freedom and independence for drivers and fans, and it helps to inspire everyone at Ford to create the best products we can for all of our customers in every segment.”

April 17 marks 50 years since Mustang officially went on sale, and the car’s global legions of fans will honor the occasion with events including a new 2015 Mustang convertible on the observation deck of the Empire State Building, dual celebrations organized by the Mustang Club of America, convoys of Mustangs road tripping across the country and an employee celebration at Ford Motor Company headquarters.
2015 Ford Mustang

The all-new Mustang is the most advanced version yet of the iconic pony car. The sleek new design of Mustang fastback and convertible is backed up by world-class performance from a range of available engines, including a new turbocharged EcoBoost^® 2.3-liter and an upgraded 5.0-liter V8 with more than 420 horsepower.

In addition to state-of-the-art connectivity systems, Mustang features available advanced driver-assist systems, track apps, launch control and more.

Drivers in China and around the world will have an opportunity to experience the freedom and excitement of Mustang firsthand when the car becomes available there for the first time in 2015.

Exclusive Ford MyKey Technology Helps Encourage Safer Driving in Fleets

• Exclusive Ford MyKey® technology, designed to encourage safe teen driving habits, is also being used by fleet owners to encourage safer driving habits among employees 
• When enabled, MyKey encourages front seat occupants to wear safety belts, limits top vehicle speed and can route incoming calls directly to the voicemail of paired phones 
• 2014 Transit Connect, a smart choice for business fleets, is one of the latest Ford vehicles  to feature MyKey as standard equipment with XLT van, XLT wagon and Titanium trim packages
  

For Joe Dougherty, Ford Motor Company’s MyKey® technology is a feature his family’s construction company uses to help keep their drivers safe. 

MyKey, a tool that parents of teen drivers can use to encourage safer driving habits, is also an attractive technology for many fleet managers. MyKey debuted as standard equipment on the 2010 Ford Focus; it is now standard on nearly all Ford and Lincoln models. 

Dougherty, president of Kentucky-based Louisville Paving Company, said his drivers need to be aware of their surroundings, and must be able to concentrate on busy, noisy construction sites. Thirty of his company’s vehicles are now equipped with MyKey, which allows owners to program a key that can limit a vehicle’s top speed and audio volume, and encourage safety belt use. The technology also routes incoming calls directly to voicemail on paired phones. 

Louisville Paving Company, which was started by the Dougherty family in 1949, is a full-service contractor involved in highway and heavy construction. Dougherty plans to purchase more Ford vehicles with MyKey because he wants to put his employees in a position to focus on driving, even when working on unpredictable job sites. 

“With us, safety is the No. 1 priority,” said Dougherty. “These job sites can be high-risk situations if drivers are distracted by the radio, phone calls or texts.” 

One of the most recent applications of MyKey technology is the 2014 Ford Transit Connect, which has become popular with businesses for its fuel efficiency and class-leading configuration options. 

“MyKey has been a great tool for fleet managers, giving them a technology that encourages good driving habits for their employees,” said Megan Gillam, commercial vehicles brand and fleet communications manager for Ford Motor Company. “Many companies have safe driving guidelines for fleet vehicles, and MyKey serves as a reinforcement of some of those basic rules.” 

Louisville Paving Company leases its fleet vehicles from Enterprise Fleet Management, which markets MyKey as a safety tool useful for businesses.

 
“The versatility of MyKey for fleet owners makes it a great feature for our customers,” said Kevin Kelley, Assistant Vice President of Business Development at Enterprise Fleet Management. “The feedback from our customers who select it as a feature has been positive, with several stating they’d like to have it added in future orders.”

Some of the features and settings on MyKey include the ability to: 

• Limit vehicle top speed to 80 mph, or lower on some models 
• Issue a warning when the vehicle is at or within 5 mph of reaching the preset maximum speed 
• Limit vehicle’s entertainment system audio to 45 percent of maximum volume 
• Sound a chime and mute the audio system until safety belts are buckled 
• Route incoming calls directly to voicemail 
• Issue an additional low-fuel warning when the fuel tank is one-eighth full

Rookie of the Year: Ford Fiesta ST Wins 22 Awards in Its Debut Season

• Since hitting dealer lots in August 2013, the 2014 Ford Fiesta ST has made a splash, racking up 22 industry awards for performance, handling and value

• The hot little hatchback most recently won a spot on the 2014 Automobile Magazine All-Star list, making it perhaps the most-awarded performance subcompact in history; Fiesta ST has earned more honors than any small performance vehicle from Ford ever

• Fiesta ST is not only capturing critical acclaim, it is helping Ford win over coveted new buyers

The 2014 Ford Fiesta ST will need a bigger trophy room.

The hot hatch has earned 22 awards since going on sale last year, most recently being named a 2014 Automobile Magazine All-Star (www.automobilemag.com/2014allstars).

“High-technology hot rods like Fiesta ST have helped make fast driving possible for buyers of small cars – even those with modest budgets,” said Jean Jennings, editor-in-chief, Automobile Magazine. “It’s a bullet on the road, with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that sounds like a mini-Ferrari when flogged, supportive Recaro seats and clean shift action. Designed and engineered collaboratively by Ford’s U.S. and European operations, Fiesta ST is a testament to the success of the One Ford global vehicle development philosophy.”

Amy Marentic, Ford marketing manager, global small and medium cars, said there’s really nothing else on the market quite like Fiesta ST. “It’s fun to drive, full of high-tech features and packaged at an affordable price,” she said. “It’s no wonder Fiesta ST is not only winning awards, but that the honors range in scope from performance to value and everything in between.”

Fiesta ST is the most-awarded performance subcompact Ford has ever made. The car has earned these awards:

• Automobile Magazine, 2014 All-Star
• Top Gear (U.K.), Car of the Year
• Echappement (France), Sports Car of the Year
• Auto Express (U.K.), Best Hot Hatch
• Scottish Car of the Year, Best Hot Hatch
• Car (Spain), Top 11 Sports Cars
• Sunday Times (U.K.), No. 1 Hot Hatch
• Autocar (U.K.), Best Value Driver’s Car
• Car and Driver, 10 Best
• Gear Patrol, GP100 Top Gear
• Popular Mechanics, 2014 Automotive Excellence Award for Handling
• Esquire Magazine, Small Car of the Year
• Culture Map – Houston, Hot Compact of the Year
• Autobytel, 2014 Compact Car of the Year
• MotorWeek, Drivers’ Choice Award for Best Subcompact Car
• Hagerty, 2014 Hagerty Hot List
• About.com, Best New Cars of 2014
• China Auto Pictorial, Performance Car of the Year
• Top Gear (China), Best Performance Car in 2013
• National Business Review, Sports Car of the Year 2013
• U.K. Car of the Year, Best Performance Car
• kbb. com, 10 Coolest New Cars Under $25,000 of 2014

Team members behind Fiesta ST and other Ford vehicles are notable on their own terms. Ford won Dynamics Team of the Year, while Team RS lead for vehicle dynamics David Put was named 2013 Dynamicist of the Year by Vehicle Dynamics International.

This jury of automotive journalists from around the world hailed the work of members of the Ford team as a “stand-out in all segments.”

“If you have not driven a new Ford in the last year, go do so now,” said Phil Morse, judging for Vehicle Dynamics International. “The vehicle dynamicists have apparently been turned loose and allowed to run amok, resulting in cars that are subtle, responsive, and an absolute pleasure to drive.”
Along with all the accolades it is collecting, Fiesta ST is winning the attention of customers Ford had hoped would find the hot hatch an appealing option. Some facts about buyers of Fiesta ST:

• 50 percent are under 35 years old, compared to 23 percent of Ford brand customers
• Average age is 39, 10 years younger than Ford brand customers
• 54 percent have at least a bachelor’s degree, compared to 50 percent of base Fiesta buyers
• 30 percent have a household income of at least $100,000, compared to 26 percent of base Fiesta buyers
• 30 percent live in California

This is a demographic that’s considered a difficult target for automakers.

“Common knowledge had it that this group didn’t care about driving, or if they did, they opted for import brands,” said Marentic. “But the feedback we’re getting from customers and the awards Fiesta ST keeps winning prove again and again we really accomplished something special.”

Customer feedback shows Fiesta ST drivers take their car to the track to run, but they also use it as a daily driver. The car is designed to be fun, but it rewards drivers with exceptional fuel economy – Fiesta ST returns an EPA-estimated 35 mpg on the highway.

Another perk of purchasing Fiesta ST is that owners are offered the chance to learn firsthand the capabilities of their performance car at Ford’s ST Octane Academy, a complimentary program for drivers of the new hatchback, as well as owners of 2013 and 2014 Ford Focus ST.

ST Octane Academy provides Fiesta ST and Focus ST owners with a full immersion into the Ford ST experience, along with driving instruction and extensive course time with professional instructors. The intent is to demonstrate to owners the performance capabilities of their car and help improve their driving skills – all while having fun.

2014 Ford Escape - EcoBoost® Challenge Driver Reactions

Ford invited people to test-drive the EcoBoost® powered Ford Escape and some class competitors. Casey said, "No contest, I would pick Escape, hands down." See all of the candid driver reactions during the EcoBoost Challenge.

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Six potential problem spots and how to deal with them

Towing a Helicopter with a Ford Super Duty

Lohman Helicopter owner and operator Morgan Lohman explains how to handle a heavy trailer load with care.

Police and Fire Badge Collection at Folsom Lake Ford Fleet

Dan Raimondi, Fleet Director at Folsom Lake Ford has gathered a collection of police, fire and other public servant badges that is constantly growing and now contains badges from all over the country.

Folsom Lake Ford Fleet is located in Folsom, CA. Their website is www.folsomlakefordfleet.com.

2014 Ford Fusion - EcoBoost® Challenge Driver Reactions

Ford invited people to test-drive the EcoBoost® powered Ford Fusion and some class competitors. We filmed their candid reactions during the EcoBoost Challenge.

2014 Ford F-150 - EcoBoost® Challenge Driver Reactions

Ford invited people to test-drive the EcoBoost® powered Ford F-150 and some class competitors. Test-driver Alan said, "The Ford is towing it so easily." See all of the candid driver reactions during the EcoBoost Challenge.

2014 Ford Focus - Focus Challenge Driver Reactions

Ford invited people to test-drive the Ford Focus and some class competitors. We filmed their candid reactions during the Focus Challenge.