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Ford to retool truck plants

Wed, 18 Jun 2008 04:49:57 GMT

Ford Motor Co. is planning to shift entire truck plants to car production in a bid to keep up with changing consumer demand in the United States, according to sources familiar with the company's plans, a dependent on profits from pickups and sport utility vehicles.

Ford is apparently scrambling right now to figure out how to quickly re-tool truck assembly plants churning out trucks that no one wants in order to build cars that they can't get enough of. The Fiesta is the first; shifting from the F-150s it currently builds to Ford's new mini from the Mexican plant that will build the Fiesta. . But Ford has plenty of other mostly idle plants that CEO Alan Mullaly wants to see turning out some of the company's popular European models like the Mondeo and the Focus. Plant managers and local union leaders are apparently going to be gathering in Dearborn on Friday to help work out a plan to shift the product mix to where it needs to be in a world of $4+ gasoline.

The key of all of this is the European lineup. While the Ford Fusion (and its siblings) is getting a major refresh later this year, the full redesign that will happen a couple years down the road will see it converge once again with the Mondeo. Meanwhile, the Focus that had its second best month ever in May will get replaced by the European version in 2011. Also the Ohio plant that builds the big E-Series vans will also switch over to the smaller Transit van. Ford should be outlining the full plan next month.

Hot-selling Ford Focus at American Idol

Sat, 24 May 2008 04:35:47 GMT

The hot-selling Ford Focus debuts a new coupe version for the 2009 model year Wednesday on American’s hottest television show – “American Idol.” This marks the first time Ford has ever revealed a new product on prime time television.

“Focus is the little car that delivers in a big way for customers, with 35 mpg fuel economy, cool features including SYNC, a fun drive, strong quality and the right price,” said John Felice, Ford Division group marketing manager. “We’ve built on those strengths to deliver an even sportier coupe version for 2009 and thought the ‘American Idol’ debut would be a new way for customers to see the upgrades for themselves.”

The new Focus coupe can be seen for the first time during the Wednesday broadcast of “American Idol” on FOX, which airs at 9 p.m. EST.

Ford has released images of its new 2009 Focus coupe along with an announcement that it plans to show off the car to the wider American public during tomorrow’s episode of the hugely popular American Idol. The Ford brass should cross its fingers that Paula doesn’t accidentally call it a Chevy.

The new coupe version of the surprisingly popular Focus offers most prominently a restyle, inspired in part by Ford customer feedback. Thankfully the ungainly chrome fender vents from the standard Focus have been eighty-sixed, with the coupe offering a less cluttered, if slightly slab-sided profile. There’s also a new front fascia, a pair of fog lamps, and a set of really nice 17-inch “Dark Chrome” wheels.

Under the hood the Focus coupe will offer drivers a bit more power thanks to a sport-tuned exhaust. That boost with a new final drive ratio (in the SES automatic) will make the coupe faster to 60 mph from a standstill, while still being rated for 35 miles per gallon.

Ford’s PRESS RELEASE: GEOFF POLITES, CEO OF JAGUAR LAND ROVER, DIES

Sat, 10 May 2008 02:01:56 GMT

DEARBORN, Mich., April 20, 2008 – Geoff Polites, chief executive officer of Jaguar Land Rover, has died peacefully in his home country of Australia. He was 60.Mr. Polites, who is credited with leading the team that returned the Jaguar Land Rover business back to profitability and successfully steering it through its ongoing sale process to Tata Motors, had been battling serious illness for the past two years.

"Geoff’s untimely passing robs his family and friends of a man who was a real inspiration to us all,” said Alan Mulally, president and chief executive officer, Ford Motor Company. ” His drive and determination, combined with his clear sense of vision for the business, played a huge role in turning round the business at Jaguar Land Rover and returning it to profitability. Geoff ensured that Jaguar Land Rover was not distracted and continued to focus on the fundamentals of the business during the recent sale process, despite at the time also fighting his own personal health battle.

"He was a trusted colleague and someone who was much respected not just by his peers but by all who had the privilege to work with him. Our sympathies are with his wife and family at this difficult time,” said Mulally.

Lewis Booth, executive vice president responsible for Ford Motor Company’s businesses in Europe, said: "For many of us at Ford and Jaguar Land Rover, we’ve lost not just a respected colleague but a great friend.

"Geoff was always someone to look up to throughout his almost 40-year career in the automotive industry. His passion for the car business was legend, but the resolve he showed since taking over as CEO of Jaguar Land Rover in 2005 was something very special."His leadership of the team that has put the Jaguar Land Rover business back into profitability has been exceptional. Geoff has given Jaguar Land Rover the solid foundation and established the strong management team it needs for a successful future. We will miss our friend very much.”

David Smith, Jaguar Land Rover’s chief financial officer, will take over as the acting chief executive officer at Jaguar Land Rover until a successor is appointed.

When Car Meets Art

Tue, 04 Mar 2008 04:01:42 GMT

Take a set of Nissan parts. Make sure that these parts, when put together, would make a complete vehicle. While putting the vehicle together, make sure that you insert a little bit of art.

That is possibly what Nissan North America did last October when it introduced its project -- Cube-ism: Automobile Meets Art. It is a project that Nissan has with the help of some students from the Brooks Institute and from the Pratt Institute. The main aim of this project is to help introduce the Nissan Cube to the US auto market, the Auto Channel reported.

With Cube-ism, Nissan would be able to make a good campaign that would make use of films and print media. These would help bring consumers in the US auto market to the Nissan Cube which is known to have been completed with art, uniqueness, and style inserted in it.

Bruce Campbell is Nissan Design America’s VP for design and he says, “The students are bringing such creative and unique concepts to this project. Nissan places high value on fresh thinking and innovative design - in our own studios and outside our industry. We've really enjoyed working with these students and are very excited to see the final output.”

Also Rich Fortinberry adds his thoughts on Cube-ism: “What is most exciting about this project is the innovative way Nissan is remaining true to the spirit of the Cube.” Fortinberry is a faculty member of the film department at Brooks.

Two Ford Models Get Green Labels

Wed, 27 Feb 2008 06:07:25 GMT

It’s been one of the hottest issues this week. The news denying that the Toyota Prius is the world’s greenest car, remember? Before your car collides with a truck that will surely damage your bumper, you better concentrate on your driving now. I won’t keep you guessing anymore. What I’m talking about is the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE)’s Green Book Online which features the Top 12 Greenest and Meanest Vehicles for 2008 as well as the “Greener Choices 2008.”

At ford.com, Ford expressed great honor upon receiving two recognitions from ACEEE, an independent and non-profit organization that advocates energy-efficiency through environmental protection.

The Ford Focus, with its 2.0-liter 4 cylinder Duratec engine, got the 9^th spot in ACEEE’s Top 12 Greenest Vehicles, next to Honda Civic GX, Toyota Prius, Honda Civic Hybrid, SmartForTwo, Toyota Yaris, Nissan Altima Hybrid, Toyota Corolla and Mini Cooper or Clubman. The Toyota Camry Hybrid, the Honda Civic and the Honda Fit also received ACEEE’s green label.

On the sidelight, the Ford Escape Hybrid having a 2.3-liter engine got a green score of 42, just 11 points lower than the top-scorer Toyota Prius. Reduced emissions plus environment-friendly seating fabric balanced with a battery made out of nickel-metal hydride, brakes capable of regenerating and 34 miles per gallon (MPG) in the city. These are some of the Ford Escape Hybrid’s green features that gave it the privilege to be ranked among other famous eco-friendly vehicles such as the Toyota Prius, Honda Civic Hybrid, SmartForTWo convertible or coupe, Honda Fit, Hyundai Sonata, Subaru Outback Wagon, Nissan Rogue, Toyota Tacoma, Toyota Sienna, Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid C1500 and the Nissan Frontier.

Sue Cischke, Ford Motor Company’s senior vice president for Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering said that the two vehicles just represent Ford products which suit the consumers’ demands for reduced fuel consumption, excellent driving performance and lasting value.

Meanwhile, ACEEE Transportation Director Therese Langer said that this year’s results really made a positive impact on Ford which regained its reputation for producing fuel-efficient cars.

Biffle Leads All Fusion Drivers

Tue, 19 Feb 2008 03:18:11 GMT

Last year, Ford fans like me were kinda let down by the performance of Ford in the Nextel Cup Series. That year saw Chevrolet drivers dominating although Ford got a handful of wins too down the stretch. This year though, Ford looks to be better but still not on top as we would have liked it.

At the 50th running of that race they call Daytona 500, (only the Great American Race), the first points race of the season, Ford is not exactly at the top but at least they cracked the top ten and drivers are really confident of their steeds.

The charge was lead by Greg Biffle who finished tenth. That's not exactly the finish that we are looking for especially after a dismal season. But then, it's just the first race of the season and things are bound to get better.

Biffle who drives the No. 16 3M Ford Fusion said that they are not after a win but a championship. You might say it's too early for that but then, the championship starts in the first race of the season. "We're thinking about the championship, not a Daytona 500 win. We needed it to go green for us to have a chance. With cautions like that you get ganged up and you don’t have a chance," said Biffle.

The second of all Ford drivers to cross the finish line in the Daytona 500 was the versatile Carl Edwards. He finished 19th in his No. 99 Office Depot Ford. Its too bad though that we did not get to see him land his signature back flip on the first race of the season. The season is long so I think we would be seeing that in the future. And I don't think he would need a knock sensor to get that W.

Escape Plug-In Hybrid Shows Huge Potential

Fri, 25 Jan 2008 09:26:32 GMT

Ford will soon be challenged by tougher competition not just in the pickup segment but in the hybrid CUV as well. This is why the Dearborn automaker has updated the Escape along its sibling Mercury Mariner for the model year 2009.

Automakers are also rushing to offer plug-in hybrids with a not-so-painful sticker price. At the Detroit Auto Show, Ford has showcased its own version of a plug-in hybrid in the Escape. The big news is the addition of a new 2.5L four-cylinder to replace the old 2.3L engine.

Thermostat and engines are tweaked to bolster efficiency. Auto accessories are also improved to create a sophisticated new version of the Escape. But there are other jaw-dropping auto features that will surely draw buffs closer…

Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid Info:

•What is it? Plug-in version of the Escape compact SUV gasoline-electric hybrid. Has five times as much battery capacity and hardware as the current Escape hybrid to recharge the battery from a standard household outlet.

•What's the point? Minimize fuel consumption by using battery-only power as long as possible before the gasoline engine kicks in.

•How soon? It's a prototype. If tests are positive, it could be on the market in five years.

•How much? It's unclear how much the bigger battery and charging hardware would boost the price. Today's normal Escape hybrid starts at $27,170.

•What's the drivetrain? Same as a non-plug-in Escape hybrid, but with a 10-kilowatt-hour battery vs. 2-kilowatt-hour battery. Has 2.3-liter gasoline engine rated 133 horsepower at 6,000 rpm, 124 pounds-feet of torque at 4,250 rpm, mated to an electric motor rated 94 hp, driving through continuously variable automatic transmission.

•What's the rest? Features, furnishings are similar to normal Escape hybrid, which can be found at www.forddirect.com.

•How big? Typical small SUV: 174.7 inches long, 71.1 inches wide (81.3 inches including mirrors), 67.7 inches tall on a 103.1-inch wheelbase. Weight is listed as 3,900 pounds, about 260 more than non-plug-in Escape hybrid. Ford expects to cut that by 45 pounds.

•How thirsty? Ford claims up to 120 miles per gallon in city driving, 70 to 80 mpg on the highway.

•Overall: Smoothest hybrid drivetrain yet tested; excellent mileage. Can Ford bring it to market at the right price?

[credit: USA Today]

Unique 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR Rocks Barrett-Jackson Auction

Sat, 19 Jan 2008 00:58:50 GMT

Ford Shelby models are defined as powerful, sophisticated and stylish. And oh, I forgot to include the word “hot”! Oh yes, Shelbys can definitely rock the house - talk about its dominating powertrain and durable ignition coil! Among the thousand existing models of this exceptional vehicle, a very unique Shelby GT500KR will crash and put on a show at the Barrett-Jackson auction this year. This is the only Shelby that was proclaimed as the one and only “King of the Road” model! It will be featured at the event with a full glass roof as a part of the company’s ongoing custom of charitable giving. The auction will benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).

“Barrett-Jackson is an ideal venue to launch and sell Ford’s premier models,” said Robert Parker, the Ford car marketing manager. “It’s the ultimate platform for selling the world’s most remarkable cars, and we’ve created a unique GT500KR just for the occasion.”

According to Ford Motor Company, Barrett-Jackson will showcase extraordinary breed of muscle cars. The event will be highlighted by Mr. Carroll Shelby’s extra special 1969 GT500 convertible.

“Barrett-Jackson will be a rare opportunity for one lucky bidder to own a Shelby GT500KR with a glass roof, a car no one else can even buy. It’s been too long, but I’m very excited to have the ‘King of the Road’ back,” explained Carroll Shelby.

“Only Ford Motor Company and Shelby American have sold more genuine Ford-powered Shelby vehicles than the Barrett-Jackson auction over the past 36 years. I'm proud that Ford and Carroll Shelby chose to sell a one-of-a-kind 2008 Shelby GT500KR coupe at our auction, where only the finest, authentic Shelby vehicles are offered to the public,” says Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Co.

Ford emerges with an Autocatalytic Reaction Scheme

Sat, 29 Dec 2007 05:30:03 GMT

Other than hybrids, hydrogen technology is one of the spices of the talks these days. In fact, top automakers are getting so attached to studies that involve the both the mentioned technologies. We no longer tackle about the usual Acura Integra clutch and other auto parts. Mostly are about hybrid and hydrogen technology. But, how can a hydrogen-powered automobile succeed? Basically, the fuel needs to be pumped into the tank as easily as gasoline – just as what an autocatalytic reaction scheme offers.

Sandia National Laboratories – whose primary mission is to develop, engineer, and test the non-nuclear components of nuclear weapons - recently suggested an alternation technology for synthesizing carbon-based fuels. It is intended to give way to the use of the current U.S. fuel distribution system.

Now, Ford Motor Co. emerged with an autocatalytic reaction scheme. It involves three hydrides that might someday enable hydrogen to be pumped into tanks as easily as gasoline. The technique is called a ternary-hydride autocatalytic reaction.

In the process, the hydrogen is being stored in a solid semi-metal – a compound of magnesium, lithium and hydrogen – that can quickly be absorbed and released. Previously, there were already suggestions regarding the use of metal hydrides for hydrogen storage, considering that the reaction is well-known and reversible. Unfortunately, until now, the temperatures and pressures required to release the hydrogen are too high to be feasible.

In collaboration with researchers at the University of California – Los Angeles, Ford research team led by Jun Yang discovered a trick to achieve low-temperature and pressure reactions. The manner is to combine three different semi-metals, namely: lithium amide, lithium borohydride, and magnesium hydride. The researchers demonstrated the release of hydrogen at 302 degrees F at pressures low enough to make it feasible for use in automobiles. It so happened through missing the ternary hydride in the ration of 2:1:1.

The mechanism, then, proved to be fast enough to enable hydrogen to be pumped into an automobile’s ‘solid’ tank at speeds comparable to gasoline being pumped into these days liquid tanks. The better thing is that there are no undesirable byproducts (common when hydrogen is used with one or two hydrides), such as ammonia, released.

Good thing that Ford is part of such wonderful innovation!

The new meaning of Ford Mustang GT500KR

Fri, 28 Dec 2007 05:34:38 GMT

For four decades, the Ford Mustang GT500KR has been known as the “King of the Road”. But this spring, there might be a little confusion with the meaning of the name – as it prepares itself for a starring role in a remake of the hit TV series “Knight Rider”.

According to Al Uzielli, a senior advisor to Ford Global Brand Entertainment, “It’s purely a coincidence and a nice one at that … Auto enthusiasts will know what KR stands for. But most viewers will probably think it means Knight Rider; at least at first.”

Based from auto123.com, “Hasselhoff has retired his intelligent Tra ns-AM and leading role, though his characters long-lost son, Michael Tracer, now takes the wheel of the new KR model. Estimated output of the 40th Anniversary Edition car is 540 horsepower.”

Well, the show is way for Ford to flaunt its innovative SYNC technology on TV – a good thing to any automaker, just as when they want to let the people know how good their Acura Integra air filter recharge kit or any of their products are.

Anyhow, a number of versions of the new KITT car were built for filming. It includes some specially tuned stunt models that come with better handling and high-speed capacity.

In the show, it the ratings turn out well enough, NBC may turn the show into a weekly series by this fall.