Ford Shelby GT350R-C Wins SportsCar Challenge Race at Daytona

• Billy Johnson, Scott Maxwell win season-opener with Ford Shelby GT350R-C
• Ford Shelby GT350R-C sweeps p1-2 as Compass360 Racing finishes p2 in their first race with Ford
• It’s Johnson and Maxwell’s second win and third podium in the Ford Shelby GT350R-C since the car debuted at Watkins Glen in 2015

DAYTONA, Fla., Jan. 29, 2016 – Billy Johnson and Scott Maxwell drove the Ford Shelby GT350R-C to its first win at Daytona International Speedway on Friday in the Continental Tire SportsCar Challenge race.

Johnson hunted the lead, trading spots for p1 several times in the closing stint. It’s the duo’s second win and third podium in the Shelby GT350R-C since the car debuted at Watkins Glen in 2015. They first won at Lime Rock last season. It was the Shelby GT350R-C’s third overall win in the Continental Tire SportsCar Challenge.

After primary challenger Matt Plumb suffered a fuel pump failure in his Porsche, the battle was between two Shelbys – Johnson in the No. 15 Multimatic entry, and Pierre Kleinubing in the brand new No. 76 AERO Advanced Paint Technology/Children’s Tumor Foundation Shelby GT350R-C fielded by Compass360 Racing, the first customer team for the Shelby GT350R-C.

Kleinubing and co-driver Paul Holton finished p2 in their first race together in the Shelby GT350R-C.

“It was great to see two Ford Performance Shelby GT350R-Cs on the podium after all the hard work everyone’s done getting the car to where it’s at,” Johnson said. “It’s the first time the car’s competed at Daytona and we’re really happy to be in victory lane with the car and a 1-2 finish for the GT350R-C. Scott did a fantastic job on the first stint and I just can’t thank him and the team enough for all the hard work and good job they do.”

Maxwell qualified the No. 15 Multimatic entry p3, while Holton put the No. 76 AERO Advanced Paint Technology Shelby p4 on the grid.

The Shelby GT350R production car was unveiled January 2015, and is one of more than 12 new vehicles Ford Performance will bring to market through 2020. Both production and race car versions feature the first-ever production car V8 from Ford with a flat-plane crankshaft. This unique layout – typically reserved for the world’s most exotic sports cars – helped create the most powerful naturally aspirated engine Ford has ever produced.

“It was my first race in this car, and it’s a very different car to drive, for me,” Holton said. “I’ve driven Street Tuner and GT cars, nothing with that kind of torque and that small of a tire. The Continental Tires are really good. We had a really green track because it was raining all week and this was the first dry day. I didn’t have a single dry lap going into that race, so as we went on, the track got grippier and grippier and then greasier and greasier, so it was quite a handful. The car changed a lot. The track changed a lot over the course of the race.

“The car is awesome. I can’t give the car enough praise. It’s going to be a really good car for the (Continental Tire SportsCar Challenge championship) this year.”

PBR Behind the Ride: Mini Bull Riding

Ford is giving you unprecedented access to the cowboys, legends and bulls that make the Built Ford Tough® Series the toughest in the world.

We Own Work: Behind the Scenes of the All-New 2017 Ford Super Duty

No actors, no stunts. Five real-world heavy-duty truck customers have an all-access insider pass to see how the all-new Super Duty - the toughest, smartest, most capable Super Duty ever - lives up to its Built Ford Tough promise.

In upcoming video episodes, this group of “Insiders” will tell the story, in their own words, of the design, development, and testing of the all-new Super Duty.

Ford Ohio Assembly Plant Adds All-New Ford F-Series Super Duty Chassis Cab to Truck Lineup

• Ford’s Ohio Assembly Plant to support additional production of the all-new 2017 Ford F-Series Super Duty chassis cab
• Super Duty chassis cabs are the number one trusted choice of tradespeople and fleet customers
• All-new 2017 F-Series Super Duty is the toughest, smartest and most capable Super Duty pickup ever and part of Ford F-Series, America’s best-selling truck for 39 straight years

AVON LAKE, Ohio, Jan. 25, 2016 – Ford today announced that its Ohio Assembly Plant will support additional production of the all-new 2017 Ford F-Series Super Duty chassis cab, part of the toughest, smartest and most capable Super Duty truck lineup ever.

“Super Duty chassis cabs are the number one trusted choice of tradespeople and fleet customers, from utility companies to construction firms,” said Kevin Koswick, director, Ford North American Fleet, Lease and Remarketing Operations. “The all-new Super Duty will help these customers keep the lights on, deliver supplies and build a better world for their customers.”

Together with Kentucky Truck Plant, Ohio Assembly will produce F-350, F-450 and F-550 Super Duty chassis cab configurations.

Opened in 1974, Ohio Assembly Plant employs nearly 1,400 people and is one of the largest employers in Lorain County. In addition to the Super Duty chassis cab, Ohio Assembly produces the new Ford F-650 and F-750, Ford E-Series cutaway vans and stripped chassis.

Ford 2017 F-Series Super Duty
 
The all-new 2017 F-Series Super Duty pickup is Ford’s toughest, smartest and most capable pickup Super Duty ever and part of Ford F-Series, America’s best-selling truck for 39 straight years.

Ford engineers improved the Super Duty chassis cab with advanced materials, making the frame out of high-strength steel and the body out of high-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloy. The result is up to 350 pounds of weight savings with additional weight savings reinvested everywhere it counts, giving customers more towing and hauling capability than ever before. Components such as axles, hubs and brakes are larger and stronger to support work demands.

The all-new, high-strength steel frame is engineered with an open-C-channel design behind the cab to enable easy aftermarket body upfit and modification. The all-new frame is made of more than 95 percent high-strength steel and fully boxed from the front to the back of the cab, and an open C-channel extends all the way behind the cab to accommodate vocational needs and aftermarket body builders.

Fleet operators and commercial upfitters will find it easier to connect electrical equipment to the truck. An all-new smart Controller Area Network (CAN) interface allows up­fitters to more easily integrate upgrades to meet their customers’ needs, with six auxiliary upfitter switches available to operate a variety of powered options, such as lights, compressors or other power equipment.

Three Super Duty chassis cab engine choices give customers the power of choice, including a 6.2-liter gasoline V8, 6.8-liter gasoline V10, or 6.7-liter Power Stroke turbo diesel V8.

The Fabric of Ford: Through Scratches, Snags and Splashes, Ford's Materials are Ready for the Long Haul

• Ford engineers scratch, snag and stretch all the different materials that go inside a vehicle to help ensure their durability and suitability to long-term customer use
• Fabrics that are used inside Ford vehicles are stained with everyday substances like hot coffee, soda and dirt to evaluate how well they can be cleaned afterward, testing their overall stain resistance
• A team of examiners smell various samples of materials used inside Ford vehicles and rank them to help the engineers achieve interiors with a perceptible but not disturbing odor

Throughout a vehicle’s lifetime, it’s inevitable that the materials inside a car show signs of wear and tear. Imagine the frequent sitting on car seats, leaning on arm rests, gripping the steering wheel and fiddling with the instruments. So what does Ford do to help make sure all vehicles are up to this challenge?

To help guarantee the durability of these fabrics, leathers and plastics, Ford engineers subject every material used inside Ford vehicles to a series of meticulous and unrelenting tests where they are stretched, scratched, snagged, sniffed and even splashed with the likes of grease, dirt and hot coffee, to see how they will stand up against the test of time.

These tests are done to help ensure it takes a lot more than a spilled cup of coffee, the graze of a sharp edge or any accidental scrapes and scuffs to break down these materials. Some of the unusual ordeals Ford materials need to go through include:

• The Five-Finger Scratch Test, which is used to scratch samples of different plastics to see how much abuse they can take
• The Soil and Cleanability Test, which splashes different substances on seat fabrics to evaluate how well they can be cleaned afterwards, testing their overall stain resistance
• The Resistance to Dye Transfer Test, which rubs materials of different colors (i.e. those dreaded new blue jeans, long-term destroyer of white leather sofas around the world) against the leather used for car seats to see if any stains are left behind
• The Mace Snagging Test, which spins seat fabrics on rotating rollers roughly 600 times while they’re repeatedly struck by a spikey iron ball to test how strong they are

In addition, a team of examiners smell various samples of materials used inside Ford vehicles and rank them to help the engineers achieve interiors that are free of disturbing odors.

The meticulous nature of these tests is a testament to Ford’s unwavering commitment to delivering quality vehicles that remain at their peak throughout the long cycle of their lives to customers and going the extra mile to ensure standards of comfort and durability are met.

Ford Explorer Makes Dramatic Return to TV on 'The X-Files'

• Ford Explorer to appear in return of acclaimed sci-fi drama “The X-Files” on Sunday
• Ford Explorer Platinum will carry FBI Agent Dana Scully throughout the highly anticipated six-episode series
• Explorer appearance continues longtime relationship between Ford Motor Company and one of television’s most influential dramas

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 22, 2016 – Ford Explorer fans should be on the lookout for more than a UFO sighting when the acclaimed pop culture phenomenon “The X-Files” returns to television Sunday. A Ford Explorer Platinum will carry FBI Agent Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson) throughout the highly anticipated six-episode series.

“The X-Files” is scheduled to air at approximately 10 p.m. EST/7 p.m. PST on FOX, immediately following the NFC Championship game.

“Pairing the vehicle that set the bar for SUVs with the show that set the standard for sci-fi television is a great relationship,” said Ginger Kasanic, Ford marketing manager, SUVs and technology. “To be a part of an iconic television show that is so technology-centric is a perfect fit for Explorer – a vehicle loaded with driver-assist technology.”

Ford Explorer Platinum will be integrated into a scene from the second night of the show’s two-part premiere, slated to air at 8 p.m. EST/5 p.m. PST Monday.

Along with the appearance of Explorer, an Escape, Mustang and black Taurus will be featured throughout the season as well, continuing Ford Motor Company’s long history with “The X-Files.” Ford vehicles were featured when the show debuted in 1993, with Agent Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) notably referring to his Ford Taurus as “a good American car.”

About Ford Explorer Platinum

• Ford Explorer is the best-selling SUV in the United States for 25 years
• Since introduced as an all-new model for 2011, Explorer has achieved four consecutive years of sales increases in the United States
• Ford Explorer Platinum debuted last fall with amenities that include a leather-wrapped interior, industry-exclusive 500-watt Sony^® Audio System, and smart technology such as enhanced active park assist, a lane-keeping system and rain-sensing wipers

Back Seat Fun Gets Revved Up with New Mustang GT350R Back Seat Kit

• Ford Performance is giving Shelby^® GT350R customers more of the functionality they asked for with a new back seat package for most track-capable Mustang ever
• Unique upholstery and contrast stitching match Shelby GT350R front seats
• With safety top of mind, GT350R kit includes all GT350 occupant restraint systems

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 21, 2016 – Fun in the back seat has never been this exciting as Ford Performance debuts a new Ford-designed and engineered back seat kit that turns the Shelby^® GT350R Mustang into a four-seater.

Gone are the days in which only two passengers could fit in the most track-ready, road-going production Mustang ever built. This new kit means Shelby GT350R is now the most track-ready, road-going four-seat Mustang ever built.

“We always listen to customer feedback,” said Dave Pericak, global director, Ford Performance. “So when many requested a back seat for their GT350R, we acted quickly to make it available.”

The kit features the same high-quality Alcantara material and high-contrast red accent stitching as the front seats for a beautiful, straight-from-the-factory look, and a consistent feel. With safety a top priority, it includes all original GT350 occupant restraint systems.

The back seat kit is available for $999 through Ford Performance Parts. It is recommended a Ford authorized dealer or service center perform the installation to help ensure safety for rear seat passengers.

Ford Gas-Saving Auto Start-Stop Technology to Be Standard Across Entire 2017 EcoBoost-Equipped F-150 Lineup

• Auto Start-Stop to be standard across 100 percent of EcoBoost^®-equipped 2017 Ford F-150 lineup, including all-new F-150 Raptor; technology could represent more than 60 percent of truck’s sales
• F-150 Auto Start-Stop technology is specially tuned for truck customers, shutting off the engine when the vehicle is at a stop – except when towing or in four-wheel-drive mode
• With best-in-class towing, payload and EPA-estimated gas mileage for 2016, F-150 continues to change the game in capability and fuel efficiency

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 21, 2016 – Ford, America’s truck leader, continues to set the pace of innovation among full-size trucks with the expansion of Auto Start-Stop technology across the entire lineup of EcoBoost^®-equipped 2017 F-150 pickups.

The 2016 F-150 with 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine comes standard with Auto Start-Stop. That offering continues for 2017, with the addition of the technology as standard equipment for all 3.5-liter EcoBoost engines including the all-new high-output version for F-150 Raptor.

At the rate EcoBoost is growing, fuel-saving Auto Start-Stop could represent more than 60 percent of the truck lineup – giving F-150 the highest number of Ford nameplates offering standard Auto Start-Stop technology.

“EcoBoost already powers F-150’s best-in-class towing,” said Doug Scott, Ford truck group marketing manager. “Now, with every EcoBoost-equipped F-150 mildly electrified with standard Auto Start-Stop technology, customers’ fuel efficiency is expected to improve as well.”

Specially tuned for truck customers, Auto Start-Stop shuts off the engine when the vehicle is at a stop – except when towing or in four-wheel-drive mode – to give drivers power on demand when they need it most. When the brake is released, the engine restarts quickly.

Auto Start-Stop for F-150 benefits from Ford’s hybrid electric vehicle expertise, helping ensure smooth and refined engine restarts.

Actual fuel savings vary depending on driving patterns. The technology also contributes to a reduction in CO₂ emissions due to decreased idle times.

The following Ford vehicles are available with Auto Start-Stop:

• Focus 1.0-liter EcoBoost
• Fusion 1.5-liter EcoBoost
• Edge 2.0-liter twin-scroll EcoBoost
• 2017 Escape 1.5-liter EcoBoost, 2.0-liter twin-scroll EcoBoost
• F-150 2.7-liter EcoBoost; 2017 F-150 2.7-liter EcoBoost, 3.5-liter EcoBoost, high-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost

Building the Newest NASCAR Ford Fusion

The new NASCAR Fusion, which hits the track next month at Daytona Speedweeks, is capable of producing 750 horsepower at 9,000 RPM under the current rules package

Ford and Jay Leno to Auction One-of-a-Kind Harley-Davidson Ford F-150 to Benefit National Multiple Sclerosis Society

• Renowned auto enthusiast and TV legend Jay Leno will be on the block at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale to auction his custom 2000 Harley-Davidson F-150, (Lot #3006)
• A one-of-one truck, this F-150 is the only one ever built with a supercharged 360-horsepower 5.4-liter Triton V8 engine
• Proceeds from the sale of this custom F-150 will be donated to National Multiple Sclerosis Society

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 8, 2016 – Ford Motor Company and Jay Leno, renowned auto enthusiast and star of Jay Leno’s Garage, are teaming up to auction the TV legend’s personal one-of-one 2000 Harley-Davidson F-150 at the 45th Anniversary Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction at WestWorld of Scottsdale.

All proceeds will benefit National Multiple Sclerosis Society, the country’s leading organization helping people affected by multiple sclerosis through cutting-edge research, advocacy and education. Live TV coverage of the auction of this custom F-150 will air on Velocity on Jan. 29.

“Jay Leno and Ford Motor Company share a passion for special vehicles and charity,” said Jim Owens, Ford Performance marketing manager. “We enjoy working with celebrities like Jay Leno who support a worthwhile cause that makes a positive difference in people’s lives. It’s a great story, because organizations can receive the help they need, while automotive enthusiasts get a chance to own a one-of-a-kind vehicle.”

Leno will be on the block to help auction his Harley-Davidson F-150, (Lot #3006). Representing the first collaborative effort between Ford and Harley-Davidson, this distinctive pickup captured the imagination of auto enthusiasts across North America when it was introduced in May 2000.

The truck is the only one in existence that features the SVT Lightning powertrain. Equipped with a supercharged 5.4-liter Triton V8, this custom monochrome black F-150 features distinctive Harley-Davidson orange pin-striping and badging and 20-inch styled chrome wheels. It cranks out approximately 360 horsepower that exits through a specially tuned single-inlet dual-outlet exhaust for a more robust sound.

“This is an opportunity to own a truly unique vehicle from my personal collection,” said Leno. “Not only is this Harley-Davidson F-150 the only one of its kind, it’s providing much needed resources to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. The next owner can feel good knowing that they’re getting an outstanding truck and supporting a great cause at the same time.”

This custom Harley-Davidson F-150 has been titled to Leno since it was first presented to him by Ford Division President Jim O'Connor at Ford World Headquarters in May 2000.

In addition to the latest Ford Performance models, Ford will have its full 2016 vehicle lineup on display at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale, including the new Explorer and F-150, as well as all-new Lincoln sedans and SUVs. Auction-goers will have the opportunity to get behind the wheel of their favorite Ford Motor Company models for on-site ride-and-drives.

Visit the Jay Leno’s Garage website on Jan. 18, for more information about the Harley-Davidson F-150 and an exclusive video featuring Leno and the truck.

For auction information, visit the Barrett-Jackson website or Facebook.

Ford Extends Commitment to African American Community with Forum, National Outreach Honoring Men of Courage

• Ford convenes Men of Courage forum where diverse group of men take action to provide social and financial capital for projects honoring black men
  

• National Men of Courage contest calls on black men to share stories and solutions for building communities; winner to be announced May 17 at Ford Freedom Awards in Detroit
  

• Ford continues work with 2016 Grammy nominee Big Sean and former Detroit mayor and NBA Hall of Famer Dave Bing to elevate positive stories from a range of audiences
  

BALTIMORE, Jan. 18, 2016 – Ford Motor Company Fund is celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. Day by launching a national initiative around Men of Courage – a program that honors and amplifies the accomplishments of African American men with the goal of strengthening communities and creating positive social change.

The initiative consists of a national contest of inspirational stories from which Ford will select a winner to honor at Ford Freedom Awards May 17 in Detroit. Ford Fund, the philanthropic arm of Ford, is also developing a free online curriculum and teaching guide that profiles 20 prominent African American men. The program seeks to enable junior and secondary high school students to create visions for success. Visit www.MenOfCourage.com for contest and curriculum information.

The national contest is being launched as part of a Men of Courage gathering at Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture in Baltimore. Ford, Baltimore Gas and Electric Company, and 100 Black Men of America convened a diverse group of 60 black men ranging in age from 17 to 70 for a daylong forum of storytelling, visioning and developing plans for action.

“Ford has a long history of supporting the African American community and is a trusted source when it comes to building communities,” said forum participant Burt Jordan, Ford vice president, Global Vehicle and Powertrain Purchasing & Supplier Diversity. “Men of Courage has the power to bring together African American men in a way that will positively impact people throughout the country.”

Group members have made more than 300 commitments to provide social and financial capital to projects honoring black men. These include support for a yearlong program at Reginald F. Lewis Museum around the theme Year of the Black Male, which explores past, present and future issues facing black men. Members also have pledged to help scale Shop Talk – a monthly panel discussion; the series was developed by Sebastian Jackson, a Detroit-based entrepreneur and owner of Social Grooming, an innovative barbershop and community meeting place.

“I believe we have the talent and skills to solve today’s social challenges right in our own communities,” said Calvin G. Butler Jr., CEO, Baltimore Gas and Electric Company. “Men of Courage is an important program because it provides support to those who are developing solutions, and gives our young people a guide to how they can create a brighter future for themselves.”

Launched as a pilot program in Detroit last year, Men of Courage connects diverse black men from local communities with a growing list of renowned advocates and celebrities. Together, these groups seek to support one another and align to build relationships in an effort to help improve the perception of African American men in society.

“After being a part of the Men of Courage pilot program and witnessing the benefits of uplifting our community, I am proud to lend my voice and take this effort to the national level,” said Big Sean, Grammy-nominated multi-platinum-selling artist.

Ford is also continuing to work with former Detroit mayor and NBA Hall of Famer Dave Bing to elevate positive stories from a range of audiences.

The company’s support of the African American community dates back to the early 20th century when Ford was the largest employer of African Americans in the auto industry. Now, with signature initiatives including Men of Courage, the annual Ford Freedom Awards and Historically Black Colleges & Universities Community Challenge, Ford is building on that support.

Follow the online conversation using #MenOfCourage.

Ford Conducts Industry-First Snow Tests of Autonomous Vehicles -- Further Accelerating Development Program

• Ford is the first automaker to test fully autonomous vehicles in winter weather, including snow – a major step toward fully autonomous driving
• Ford’s fully autonomous vehicle strategy uses high-resolution 3D mapping and LiDAR for localization to facilitate driving when road markings are not visible
• Winter weather testing strengthens Ford leadership in autonomous vehicle development, building on recent news of the company’s expansion of its fully autonomous vehicle fleet – now the largest of all automakers

 

DETROIT, Jan. 11, 2016 – Ford is conducting the industry’s first autonomous vehicle tests in snow-covered environments – a major step in the company’s plan to bring fully autonomous vehicles to millions of customers worldwide.

Unlike other major automakers and technology companies, which have tested autonomous vehicle technology only in dry, mostly sunny climates, Ford knows the future of autonomous driving cannot rely on ideal conditions.

“It’s one thing for a car to drive itself in perfect weather,” said Jim McBride, Ford technical leader for autonomous vehicles. “It’s quite another to do so when the car’s sensors can’t see the road because it’s covered in snow. Weather isn’t perfect, and that’s why we’re testing autonomous vehicles in wintry conditions – for the roughly 70 percent of U.S. residents who live in snowy regions.”
Ford’s winter weather testing takes place in Michigan, including at Mcity – a 32-acre, full-scale simulated real-world urban environment at the University of Michigan.

Fully autonomous driving can’t rely on GPS, which is accurate only to several yards – not enough to localize or identify the position of the vehicle. And it’s key that an autonomous vehicle knows its precise location, not just within a city or on a road, but in its actual driving lane – a variation of a few inches makes a big difference.

LiDAR, on the other hand, is much more accurate than GPS – identifying the Fusion Hybrid’s lane location right down to the centimeter. LiDAR emits short pulses of laser light to precisely allow the vehicle to create a real-time, high-definition 3D image of what’s around it.

In ideal weather, LiDAR is the most efficient means of gathering important information and metadata – underlying information about the data itself – from the surrounding environment, sensing nearby objects and using cues to determine the best driving path. But on snow-covered roads or in high-density traffic, LiDAR and other sensors such as cameras can’t see the road. This is also the case when the sensor lens is covered by snow, grime or debris.

Undaunted by this challenge, Ford and University of Michigan technologists began collaborating toward a solution that would allow an autonomous vehicle to see on a snow-covered road.

How snow autonomy works
 
To navigate snowy roads, Ford autonomous vehicles are equipped with high-resolution 3D maps – complete with information about the road and what’s above it, including road markings, signs, geography, landmarks and topography.

“Maps developed by other companies don’t always work in snow-covered landscapes,” said Ryan Eustice, associate professor at University of Michigan college of engineering. “The maps we created with Ford contain useful information about the 3D environment around the car, allowing the vehicle to localize even with a blanket of snow covering the ground.”

An autonomous vehicle creates the maps while driving the test environment in favorable weather, with technologies automatically annotating features like traffic signs, trees and buildings. When the vehicle can’t see the ground, it detects above-ground landmarks to pinpoint itself on the map, and then subsequently uses the map to drive successfully in inclement conditions.

“The vehicle’s normal safety systems, like electronic stability control and traction control, which often are used on slippery winter roads, work in unison with the autonomous driving software,” said McBride. “We eventually want our autonomous vehicles to detect deteriorating conditions, decide whether it’s safe to keep driving, and if so, for how long.”

A pioneer in autonomy
 
Winter driving still presents a host of challenges, but Ford’s testing marks an important achievement on the road to autonomous driving. That road goes back roughly a decade, to the first-generation autonomous vehicle from Ford – a LiDAR-equipped F-250 Super Duty.

In 2013, Ford launched its second-generation autonomous vehicle platform, a Fusion Hybrid sedan using more advanced LiDAR sensors. This past summer, Ford transitioned its fully autonomous vehicle development program from the research to advanced engineering phase, the second of three phases before entering production.

Earlier this month, Ford announced it is taking the next step – tripling its fully autonomous development fleet to 30 vehicles being tested on roads and test tracks in California, Arizona and Michigan. This makes the company’s fully autonomous vehicle fleet the largest of all automakers. These third-generation autonomous vehicles continue to be based on a Fusion Hybrid sedan now featuring the first auto-specific LiDAR sensor capable of handling different driving scenarios – thanks in part to its longer range of around 200 meters.

Building on more than a decade of Ford autonomous vehicle research, this advancement is a key element of Ford Smart Mobility – the plan to take Ford to the next level in connectivity, mobility, autonomous vehicles, the customer experience, and data and analytics.
 

Ford Wins Again -- Earns Overall Loyalty to Make, Highest Loyalty Among African American Consumers from IHS

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 13, 2016 – The 20th Annual Automotive Loyalty Awards, presented by IHS Automotive, brought several honors to Ford Motor Company and its vehicles, including recognition for overall loyalty to make, and highest loyalty among African American consumers. This marks the second consecutive time Ford has won both awards.

In addition, F-Series and Mustang were recognized as segment-level winners among non-luxury full-size half-ton pickups and non-luxury sport midsize cars.

The awards ceremony took place Tuesday at Automotive News World Congress, held in conjunction with the North American International Auto Show.

Automotive Loyalty Awards recognize automotive manufacturers and brands for customer retention and conquest efforts for the 2015 model year – October 2014 to September 2015. They are the only fact-based awards in the industry.

Still Unmatched: All-New Ford F-150 Raptor SuperCrew Is America's Favorite High Performance Off-Road Pickup Truck

• Roomier: All-new Ford F-150 Raptor SuperCrew adds room for passengers and gear, expanding choice and versatility in the toughest, smartest, most capable F-150 Raptor ever
• More agile: Enhanced suspension, use of advanced materials, all-new EcoBoost engine technology plus smart engineering saves up to 500 pounds, for improved power-to-weight ratio for even better off-road agility than previous F-150 Raptor
• Unmatched performance: All-new high-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost, all-new 10-speed transmission and torque-on-demand transfer case make F-150 Raptor even more powerful, efficient and easy to drive off-road
• Better traction: Segment-exclusive redesigned beadlock-capable wheels help increase grip in low-traction conditions; unique Avalanche Grey color signifies Raptor’s Ford Performance tie

DETROIT, Jan. 11, 2016 – Eagerly anticipated and still unmatched by any auto manufacturer,  Ford – America’s truck leader – introduces the all-new F-150 Raptor SuperCrew, adding agility, versatility and roominess to the toughest, smartest, most capable F-150 Raptor ever.

Developed with the DNA of a Baja race truck, F-150 Raptor is unique among off-road and performance vehicles, with a purpose-built engine, chassis and suspension that enables it to travel fast over challenging desert landscapes or crawl over rocky terrain.

F-150 Raptor SuperCrew with four full-size doors provides rear passengers with more legroom and comfort on the trails and more space to stow gear while exploring the American and Canadian wilderness. SuperCrew’s 145-inch wheelbase is 12 inches longer than the standard Raptor SuperCab 133-inch wheelbase.

“F-150 Raptor means superior off-road capability, from rock crawling to sand running,” said Dave Pericak, Ford Performance global director. “With the addition of SuperCrew, F-150 Raptor customers can leave the pavement behind – without sacrificing comfort and space.”

Advanced materials – including high-strength steel and high-strength, military grade, aluminum alloy – help save up to 500 pounds versus the prior Raptor for improved off-road prowess. Combined with all-new EcoBoost engine technology, the next-generation F-150 Raptor’s power-to-weight ratio has been improved, making the truck even more agile off-road.

Toughest F-150 Raptor ever
 
The all-new F-150 Raptor starts with a purpose-built fully boxed frame – the backbone of the truck – that is the strongest in the F-150 lineup, featuring more high-strength steel than the outgoing Raptor.

F-150 Raptor’s chiseled looks are reminiscent of Trophy Trucks – the fastest and most powerful class of off-road pickups. F-150 Raptor is 6 inches wider than standard F-150 for enhanced stability off-road.

The all-new F-150 Raptor also boasts its first-ever dual exhaust and new 17-inch wheels with next-generation BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 tires designed for off-road performance.

Smartest F-150 Raptor ever
 
F-150 Raptor is powered by Ford’s new, second-generation high-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost^® engine that produces more power with greater efficiency than the current 6.2-liter V8, which is rated at 411 horsepower and 434 lb.-ft. of torque.

The high-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost is a Raptor-exclusive in the F-150 lineup paired with an all-new 10-speed transmission for improved efficiency.

An all-new four-wheel-drive, torque-on-demand transfer case, with advanced, easy-to-use off-road mode driver-assist technology, further improves Raptor’s performance so it is easy to drive off-road across varying terrain.

F-150 Raptor’s new transfer case, which manages power distribution between the front and rear wheels, combines the best attributes of clutch-driven, on-demand all-wheel drive with durable, mechanical-locking four-wheel drive to send power to the wheels in slippery conditions.

F-150 Raptor’s pioneering off-road driving mode technology has evolved into an all-new Terrain Management System™ that enables the driver to select modes to optimize driving dynamics to environmental conditions – from snow to mud, sand and more.

Six preset modes help the truck power through different terrain and driving conditions:

• Normal mode for everyday driving
• Street mode for higher-performance, on-road driving
• Weather mode for rain, snow or ice
• Mud and sand mode for muddy and sandy trails and terrain
• Baja mode for high-speed desert running and
• Rock mode for low-speed rock crawling

Most capable F-150 Raptor ever
 
An available Torsen front differential increases off-road capability further. The system increases grip significantly for the front end of the truck and allows it to pull itself over obstacles and up steep grades – even when traction is split between the front tires.

F-150 Raptor comes standard with new FOX Racing Shox with custom internal bypass technology that works to damp and stiffen suspension travel over rough terrain, helping prevent the truck from bottoming out.

Front and rear shock canisters have grown from 2.5 inches to 3 inches in diameter for improved performance. They feature more suspension travel than the current Raptor’s 11.2 inches at the front and 12 inches at the rear.

All-new F-150 Raptor will be built at Dearborn Truck Plant and goes on sale in the U.S. and Canada this fall.

F-150 foundation
 
Ford F-150 – the same hard-working light-duty truck available from XL work truck to Limited, the most luxurious F-150 ever – is the foundation of every F-150 Raptor. F-150 is part of Ford F-Series, America’s favorite truck for 39 straight years and America’s favorite vehicle for 34 straight years.

Ford Unveils Smartest, Most Technology-Packed Fusion Ever, Including Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Versions of New Sedan

• Class-exclusive combination of all-wheel drive and twin-turbocharged V6 engine pushes Ford Fusion V6 Sport to leave other family sedans – including Honda Accord and Toyota Camry – in the dust; Fusion even out-powers the 2016 BMW 340
• Fusion Energi is the plug-in hybrid that stands out in a crowd – allowing customers to drive extended distances using just electricity, then operating as a conventional gas engine-powered hybrid when the battery runs low
• Fusion is the first Ford car in North America with a pedestrian detection system; other advanced technologies include hands-free parallel and perpendicular parking and SYNC^® 3

DETROIT, Jan. 11, 2016 – The new Ford Fusion continues to be a game changer among midsize sedans, with the most technologically advanced lineup ever – including two hybrid models and a new all-wheel-drive Fusion V6 Sport engineered to leave other family sedans in the dust.

Fusion V6 Sport and the new Fusion Platinum add to a lineup featuring three EcoBoost^® engine choices, along with two hybrids, Fusion Hybrid and Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid – something neither Toyota nor Honda offers midsize sedan shoppers.

“Fusion offers people a lot more car – including helpful technology, beautiful design and a more rewarding driving experience than other midsize sedans,” said Raj Nair, Ford executive vice president and chief technical officer, Global Product Development.

• Fusion V6 Sport: Fusion V6 Sport is a performance sedan unlike anything in the segment with a twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter EcoBoost^® V6 delivering a projected 325 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque. All-wheel-drive Fusion V6 Sport is projected to make approximately 100 lb.-ft. of additional torque and nearly 50 more horsepower than the 3.5-liter V6 engines in Toyota Camry and Honda Accord
• Fusion Hybrid and Fusion Energi: New Fusion Hybrid and Fusion Energi lead America’s best-selling lineup of plug-in hybrids. New software in both hybrids delivers an even more refined and engaging drive for customers, while more efficient electric motors are expected to contribute to better fuel economy and a purer range of electric driving
• Fusion Platinum: Fusion Platinum is designed for those seeking even greater levels of refinement and craftsmanship in a midsize sedan. With available award-winning 2.0-liter EcoBoost and all-wheel drive, the real story is the interior experience. Instrument and door trim panels are wrapped in antiqued Cocoa leather, and the hand-wrapped steering wheel is finished in premium Venetian leather. A unique grille finished in Magnetic paint makes for an upscale design and 19-inch polished wheels return confident performance

Together, Fusion V6 Sport, Fusion Hybrid and Fusion Energi, and Fusion Platinum offer three different flavors of an award-winning lineup for midsize sedan customers.

Fusion V6 Sport adds continuously controlled damping for real-time suspension tuning based on setup and road inputs. The system features pothole detection technology that, in less than the blink of an eye, adjusts the shock absorbers to greatly reduce the severity of impact transmitted to occupants. Power and handling are complemented by unique, performance-inspired style inside and out. The look is distinguished by an aggressive exterior with deeper air intakes and a gloss black-finish mesh grille, 19-inch wheels, rear spoiler and dual twin exhaust outlets.

Fusion Hybrid and Fusion Energi are technology-packed electrified vehicles that offer an advanced EcoGuide system to provide drivers real-time coaching to get even better fuel economy. Fusion Energi features a 7.6-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery for an expected range of 19 miles using electric power only. The car automatically switches to an efficient 2.0-liter gasoline engine when the battery is depleted, allowing customers to drive more than 500 miles. 

Ford continues to innovate and evolve with its lithium-ion batteries that save weight and take up less space than the less sophisticated nickel-metal hydride batteries found in Toyota Camry Hybrid. Neither Camry nor Accord offers a plug-in hybrid.

Recharging Fusion Energi can be done overnight in just 2.5 hours. The car is smart enough to know when to begin charging to get electricity at the lowest price. It can even preheat or precool the cabin before drivers leave to save more fuel. 

Both electrified Fusions deliver impressive overall performance with electric-only speeds up to 85 mph. Regenerative braking captures up to 95 percent of the energy lost through heat during braking and recharges the hybrid battery on the move.

Meaningful technology
 
Fusion is the most technologically advanced midsize car Ford has ever built in North America – the first car sold here with Ford’s pedestrian detection system. Fusion also has hands-free parallel and perpendicular parking capability. The new high-tech gear shift dial results in a roomier cabin with easy-to-reach bins.

Lane-keeping assist helps drivers maintain proper lane position using a small, forward-facing camera behind the rearview mirror that “looks” at the road ahead – monitoring lane lines to ensure the car is on course.

Available Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert includes sensors in the car’s rear quarter-panels that can detect traffic in a driver’s blind spot, providing both audible and visual warnings if traffic – unseen by the driver – is detected. BLIS^® enables cross-traffic alert, warning the driver of oncoming traffic when backing out of a parking space with obstructed views. In combination with the standard rearview camera, BLIS makes for confident maneuvering in parking lots.

SYNC^® 3, Ford’s new communications and entertainment system, is also available. It features faster performance, more conversational voice recognition, a more intuitive smartphone-like touch screen and easier-to-understand graphical interface. SYNC Connect, optional with SYNC 3, enables owners to remotely start their car, schedule future starts, or lock and unlock the car using their smartphone.
The new Fusion arrives at dealerships this summer. Fusion V6 Sport follows a few weeks later.

Ford Targets Drone-to-Vehicle Technology to Improve Emergency Services, Commercial Business Efficiency

• Ford and drone-maker DJI drive innovation in smart drone-to-vehicle software with DJI Developer Challenge
• DJI Developer Challenge designed to create a rapidly deployable surveying system for use by the United Nations in emergency zones; future applications could include agriculture, forestry, construction, bridge inspection and other work
• These types of mobility innovations are part of Ford Smart Mobility, the plan to take Ford to the next level in connectivity, mobility, autonomous vehicles, the customer experience, and data and analytics 

Las Vegas, Jan. 5, 2016 – Ford and DJI are imagining a world in which vehicles and drones become more capable and efficient working together, and are announcing a challenge to develop the software to make that possible.

Working with DJI, the world leader in professional-grade drone systems and software, Ford invites innovators to participate in the DJI Developer Challenge to create drone-to-vehicle communications using Ford SYNC^® AppLink or OpenXC. The goal is a surveying system for the United Nations Development Program to inspect emergency zones inaccessible to even the most versatile vehicles.

The technology could allow United Nations first responders to earthquakes or tsunamis to quickly deploy drones able to survey and map hardest-hit areas – all from the cab of an F-150.

“At Ford, we are driving innovation in every part of our business to help make people’s lives better,” said Ken Washington, Ford vice president, Research and Advanced Engineering. “Working with DJI and the United Nations, there is an opportunity to make a big difference with vehicles and drones working together for a common good.”

Applicants to the surveying system challenge can visit http://developer.dji.com/challenge2016. The challenge winner receives $100,000.

The mobility challenge is part of Ford Smart Mobility, the plan to take the company to the next level in connectivity, mobility, autonomous vehicles, the customer experience, and data and analytics.

Ford F-150 serves as drone base station
 
Developers are tasked with creating software that would allow an F-150 and a drone to communicate in real time. The United Nations’ rapidly deployable surveying system ideally would work like this:

In a disaster, an emergency response team would drive an F-150 as far as possible into an emergency zone caused by an earthquake or tsunami.

Using the Ford SYNC^® 3 touch screen, the driver could identify a target area and launch a drone by accessing an app projected through Ford SYNC AppLink. The drone would follow a flight path over the zone, capturing video and creating a map of survivors with associated close-up pictures of each.

Using the driver’s smartphone, the F-150 would establish a real-time link between the drone, the truck and the cloud, so vehicle data can be shared. Data will be relayed to the drone so the driver can continue to a new destination, and the drone will catch up and dock with the truck.

Developers will be able to use vehicle data available through SYNC AppLink or the OpenXC platform to create a seamless drone-to-vehicle communications experience.

Though this challenge has a specific mission, the software eventually could allow drone-to-vehicle applications in agriculture, forestry, construction, bridge inspection, search and rescue, and many other work environments in which vehicles are space-, height- or terrain-limited.

Ford Developer Program
 
This developed challenge for drone software is just the latest example of how Ford is driving innovation through its Ford Developer Program, launched at the CES in 2013.

By leveraging Ford AppLink and OpenXC, the company is inviting developers from across the globe to innovate with Ford in the automotive industry’s first end-to-end developer ecosystem.

SYNC 3 with AppLink: Make quicker connections

SYNC 3 with AppLink™ and Simple Music Search helps you find just the right song*.

SYNC 3 can bring the power of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to your Ford.You can use Siri® Eyes Free (with Apple CarPlay) or talk to Google (with Android Auto) to make calls, return missed calls and listen to voicemail; as well as send, read and reply to text messages. The power of Apple Maps (with Apple CarPlay) comes with turn-by-turn directions, estimated travel time and more. And with Google Maps (on Android Auto), you get voice-guided navigation, live traffic information and more.

Ford Tripling Autonomous Vehicle Development Fleet, Accelerating On-Road Testing of Sensors and Software

 

• Ford is tripling its fleet of Fusion Hybrid autonomous research vehicles this year – making the company’s fully autonomous vehicle fleet the largest of all automakers – and accelerating the development and testing of its virtual driver software in both urban and suburban environments
• New fleet vehicles will use Velodyne’s advanced new Solid-State Hybrid Ultra PUCK™ Auto sensor, providing precision required for mapping and creating accurate, real-time 3D models of the surrounding environment, enhancing Ford’s software development and testing to handle a broader range of driving scenarios
• Autonomous vehicles are part of Ford Smart Mobility, the plan to take the company to the next level in connectivity, mobility, autonomous vehicles, the customer experience, and data and analytics

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 5, 2016 – Ford is tripling its fleet of fully autonomous Ford Fusion Hybrid test vehicles – making it the largest in the automotive industry – and will use a new-generation sensor technology as the company further accelerates its autonomous vehicle development plans.

This year, Ford will add 20 Fusion Hybrid autonomous vehicles, bringing the company's autonomous fleet to about 30 vehicles being tested on roads in California, Arizona and Michigan.

“Using the most advanced technology and expanding our test fleet are clear signs of our commitment to make autonomous vehicles available for millions of people,” said Raj Nair, Ford executive vice president, Global Product Development, and chief technical officer. “With more autonomous vehicles on the road, we are accelerating the development of software algorithms that serve to make our vehicles even smarter.”

Building on more than a decade of Ford autonomous vehicle research, this expansion is a key element of Ford Smart Mobility – the plan to take Ford to the next level in connectivity, mobility, autonomous vehicles, the customer experience, and data and analytics. The newest vehicles are on Ford’s third-generation autonomous vehicle development platform, built using Fusion Hybrid sedans, similar to the second-generation platform.

Ford recently announced its fully autonomous cars will take to the streets of California this year. The company already tests autonomous vehicles at its proving grounds, as well as on public roads in Michigan. Ford was the first automaker to test a fully autonomous vehicle at Mcity – a 32-acre, full-scale simulated real-world urban environment at the University of Michigan.

Advances in sensing, software and hardware
Ford is using Velodyne’s newest LiDAR sensors – named Solid-State Hybrid Ultra PUCK™ Auto for its hockey puck-like size and shape – on its third-generation autonomous vehicle platform.

Solid-State Hybrid Ultra PUCK Auto sensors boast a longer range of 200 meters, making them the first auto-specific LiDAR sensors capable of handling different driving scenarios. Ultra Puck will accelerate the development and validation of Ford’s virtual driver software, which serves as the decision-making brain that directs vehicle systems.

Solid-State Hybrid Ultra PUCK Auto’s lightweight, sleek design makes it optimal for packaging on a vehicle, such as on the sideview mirror. The design means Ford can reduce the amount of LiDAR sensors from four to two on new Fusion Hybrid autonomous vehicles, and get as much useful data due to the more targeted field of view.

”Adding the latest generation of computers and sensors, including the smaller and more affordable Solid-State Hybrid Ultra PUCK Auto sensors helps bring Ford ever closer to having a fully autonomous vehicle ready for production,” said Jim McBride, Ford technical leader for autonomous vehicles.

The vehicle's hardware systems, which interact continuously with the virtual driver, are equally important.

Third-generation autonomous Fusion Hybrid sedans will have supplemental features and duplicate wiring for power, steering and brakes. These supplemental features will act as backups, if needed.

Ford’s autonomous journey
Ford has been using Velodyne LiDAR sensors for roughly a decade, dating back to Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency autonomous vehicle challenges.

Ford was among the first to use the Velodyne LiDAR sensor, an innovation that significantly changed the autonomous vehicle landscape. LiDAR emits short pulses of laser light to precisely scan the surrounding environment millions of times per second and determine the distance to objects, allowing the vehicle to create a real-time, high-definition 3D image of whatever’s around it.

Ford’s first-generation autonomous vehicle platform was built using a Ford F-250 Super Duty for participation in the DARPA challenges in 2005 and 2007. In 2013, Ford introduced its second-generation autonomous vehicle platform, using a Fusion Hybrid sedan.

Ford was one of only six teams to participate in both the DARPA Desert Classic and Urban Finals challenges, supported by four engineers who still are on the company’s autonomous vehicle development team.

“We’ve come a long way since DARPA,” said McBride. “A decade ago, no one in the field knew what the art of the possible was. Today, we’re all hustling to make the most ambitious dreams become a reality.”

The first-generation autonomous vehicle platform helped Ford understand that fully autonomous driving was technically feasible in the near future, and – through ambitious research – how it could achieve this.

Fusion Hybrid sedans were chosen for the second-generation vehicles because they have the newest and most advanced electrical architecture. With the latest generation of computers and sensors – including the smaller, but more advanced Velodyne LiDAR HDL-32E sensor – Ford’s autonomous vehicle platform moved a step closer to production.

The objective of the second-generation vehicle fleet is to test many of the computing and sensor components required to achieve fully autonomous driving capability, as defined by SAE International Level 4, which does not require the driver to intervene and take control of the vehicle.

Last summer, Ford transitioned from the research phase of development to the advanced engineering phase.

Meanwhile, Ford continues to hone other types of sensors – cameras, radar and ultrasonic devices – to deliver semi-autonomous features to customers today. These include adaptive cruise control, active park assist, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping aid, pedestrian detection, Pro Trailer Backup Assist and vehicle-to-vehicle connection technology already available on millions of Ford vehicles today.

Sci-Fi Movie Extras Know Extras – Like the Green Tech in the 2016 Ford Fusion Energi

The 2016 Ford Fusion Energi is packed with the extra features you’re looking for. Who better to talk about those amazing extras like smart technology than a professional movie extra?

Two Comedians Conquer Chicago in a Ford Focus

Chicago has long been home to some of the top comedic talent in the U.S. Get to know two of the city’s funniest stand-up comics—Natalie Jose and Tim Barnes—as they cruise the city in a 2016 Ford Focus.

Unwinding after sets at the Laugh Factory comedy club, Jose and Barnes visit some of the best Chicago nightlife spots, including Jeri’s Grill, Timber Lanes and Wiener’s Circle. As night morphs to morning, the two friends learn why the Ford Focus is perfectly suited for a late-night tour of the Windy City.

2015 Ford F-150 vs. Chevrolet Silverado

Find out what the Ford F-150 offers that the Chevrolet Silverado doesn't!

Happy New Year!

May the New Year Bring Joy, Peace and Happiness to Your and Your Entire Family!