.Ford introduces the auto industry's first-ever production inflatable seat belts, which are designed to provide additional protection for rear-seat occupants, often children and older passengers who can be more vulnerable to head, chest and neck injuries
.Ford's inflatable rear seat belts will debut on the next-generation Ford Explorer sport utility vehicle, which goes into production next year; Ford eventually plans to offer inflatable seat belt technology in vehicles globally
.Ford's inflatable rear seat belts spread crash forces over five times more area of the body than conventional seat belts; this helps reduce pressure on the chest and helps control head and neck motion for rear seat passengers
.More than 90 percent of Ford research participants indicated that Ford's inflatable seat belts are similar to or more comfortable than traditional belts, which could help increase the lower rate of rear belt usage
DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 5, 2009 - Ford Motor Company is bringing to market the world's first automotive inflatable seat belts, combining attributes of traditional seat belts and air bags to provide an added level of crash safety protection for rear seat occupants.
 
The advanced restraint system is designed to help reduce head, neck and chest injuries for rear seat passengers, often children and older passengers who can be more vulnerable to such injuries.
 
Ford will introduce inflatable rear seat belts on the next-generation Ford Explorer, which goes into production next year for the North American market. Over time, Ford plans to offer the technology in vehicles globally.
 
"Ford's rear inflatable seat belt technology will enhance safety for rear-seat passengers of all ages, especially for young children who are more vulnerable in crashes," said Sue Cischke, Ford group vice president of Sustainability, Environmental and Safety Engineering. "This is another unique family technology that builds on our safety leadership, including the most top safety ratings of any automaker."
 
Safer and more comfortable
Advances in air bag inflation and seat belt construction methods have enabled Ford and its suppliers to develop inflatable seat belts that are designed to deploy over a vehicle occupant's torso and shoulder in 40 milliseconds in the event of a crash.
 
In everyday use, the inflatable belts operate like conventional seat belts and are safe and compatible with infant and children safety car and booster seats. In Ford's research, more than 90 percent of those who tested the inflatable seat belts found them to be similar to or more comfortable than a conventional belt because they feel padded and softer. That comfort factor could help improve the 61 percent rear belt usage rate in the U.S., which compares to 82 percent usage by front seat passengers, according National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data.
 
"Ford is pioneering inflatable seat belt technology to help enhance crash safety protection, while encouraging more people to buckle up with a more comfortable belt," said Paul Mascarenas, Ford vice president, Engineering, Global Product Development.
 
In the event of a frontal or side crash, the inflatable belt's increased diameter more effectively holds the occupant in the appropriate seating position, helping to reduce the risk of injury.
 
Vehicle safety sensors determine the severity of the collision in the blink of an eye and deploy the inflatable belts' air bags. Each belt's tubular air bag inflates with cold compressed gas, which flows through a specially designed buckle from a cylinder housed below the seat.
 
The inflatable belt's accordion-folded bag breaks through the belt fabric as it fills with air, expanding sideways across the occupant's body in about the same amount of time it takes a car traveling at highway speed to cover a yard of distance.
 
The use of cold compressed gas instead of a heat-generating chemical reaction - which is typical of traditional air bag systems - means the inflated belts feel no warmer on the wearer's body than the ambient temperature. The inflatable belts also fill at a lower pressure and a slower rate than traditional air bags, because the device does not need to close a gap between the belt and the occupant.
 
"It's a very simple and logical system, but it required extensive trial and error and testing over several years to prove out the technology and ensure precise reliable performance in a crash situation," said Srini Sundararajan, safety technical leader for Ford research and advance engineering.
 
The inflated belt helps distribute crash force energy across five times more of the occupant's torso than a traditional belt, which expands its range of protection and reduces risk of injury by diffusing crash pressure over a larger area, while providing additional support to the head and neck. After deployment, the belt remains inflated for several seconds before dispersing its air through the pores of the air bag.
 
Ford's safety leadership record continues to grow
The inflatable seat belt debuting on the next-generation Ford Explorer continues Ford's record of safety innovation. Ford today has more 5-star U.S. government ratings and "Top Safety Picks" from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety than any other automaker.
 
Ford was the first automaker to front and rear lap seat belts in 1955 and led the way in making driver and front-passenger air bags standard in most vehicles by 1993.
 
This year, Ford introduced radar-enabled Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning with Brake Support and Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross Traffic Alert (CTA). These technologies - introduced on the new 2010 Ford Taurus and Fusion - help drivers avoid potential dangerous crash situations using radar to detect the relative position of other vehicles and warn the driver with a combination of visual and audio alerts.
 
Ford's other recent seat belt and air bag innovations include the industry-first BeltMinder system in 2000, which the U.S. government credited with increasing front belt usage by 5 percent in Ford vehicles. On the 2002 Explorer, Ford launched the industry's first rollover-activated side curtain air bags - called Safety Canopy - as well as Roll Stability Control technology that goes a step beyond traditional stability control systems by helping measure and prevent side-to-side skidding and dangerous situations that could lead to rollovers.
 
Ford also introduced on the 2009 F-150 and 2010 Taurus some of the industry's first pressure-based air bag technologies that help deploy side air bags up to 30 percent faster.

NEW YORK, Nov. 10, 2009 - The smartest full-size sedan in America, the hot-selling 2010 Ford Taurus, will be the official vehicle of the 2010 International CES (Consumer Electronics Show®), to be held Jan. 7-10 in Las Vegas.
 
"The all-new Taurus is Ford's technology flagship, offering more user-friendly technology to help keep you safe and connected than cars twice its price," said Frank Davis, executive director Product Development. "And there's no better venue to show it off than CES."
 
Ford President and Chief Executive Officer Alan Mulally will deliver the opening keynote address at CES, where Ford also will announce enhancements to its award-winning Ford SYNC® communications and entertainment system as well as new technology that builds on the company's connected-car leadership position.
 
As the official car of CES, the Ford Taurus will be featured prominently with technology demonstrations and in signage, brochures and other written materials at the show.
 
"Consumers demand the latest on-the-go innovation in their cars. Ford automobiles are built with cutting-edge technology that makes driving safer and more enjoyable," said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO of the Consumer Electronics Association® (CEA), producer of the International CES. "We are thrilled to welcome Ford to the 2010 International CES and to name the new Ford Taurus as the 'Official Car of CES.' We also look forward to hearing Ford's Alan Mulally kick off the 2010 CES with his opening keynote address on Thursday, Jan. 7."
 
As Davis notes, the all-new Ford Taurus is a perfect fit for CES - the world's largest consumer technology trade show for the $172 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry. In addition to its expressive styling, the vehicle is loaded with advanced features, making it a virtual dream come true for avid techies.
 
"The Ford Taurus has 10 class-exclusive features not available from any other manufacturer," said Davis. "This vehicle offers it all - from Multi-Contour Seats with Active Motion(tm) that are designed to reduce fatigue on long-distance drives to a voice-activated navigation system that can tell you real-time traffic and weather information, and even where to find the cheapest gas."
 
The Taurus also offers the latest application of SYNC - Traffic, Directions & Information - along with 911 Assist(tm) and Vehicle Health Report. SYNC's USB port and Bluetooth capability connects to MP3 players, memory sticks and smartphones, making them accessible by voice control - a more convenient and safe way to use these devices in the car.
 
For techies with teenaged drivers, Taurus offers MyKey(tm), a feature that allows parents to program a key that can limit the vehicle's top speed and audio volume to encourage teens to drive safer and improve fuel efficiency.
 
In addition to Multi-Contour Seats with Active Motion, voice-activated navigation, SYNC and MyKey, other class-exclusive technologies available on the Ford Taurus include:
 
.EasyFuel® Capless Fuel-Filler - a self-seal system without a traditional fuel cap. No lost, dangling, or spinning caps. It seals automatically, every time.
.SecuriCode(tm) Keyless Entry Keypad - a feature that allows you to unlock the driver's door by entering a five-digit code via a flush-mounted keypad
.Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support - a feature that allows you to set a cruising speed and uses radar technology to automatically adjust your speed and warn you if you're getting too close to the vehicle in front of you
.Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross Traffic Alert - a feature that uses radar technology to warn you of vehicles in your blind spot and alert you to oncoming traffic when you're backing out of a parking spot
.Sony Audio® System - a surround sound system that delivers Dolby® Digital 5.1 sound through 12 high-quality Sony speakers
.Available EcoBoost(tm) V-6 - a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine that delivers the output of a V-8, 365 horsepower, without compromising its V-6 fuel economy
According to Davis, all of the technology offered on the Ford Taurus is sweetened by the vehicle's price.
 
"Even the most zealous techies are careful with their money," he said. "Taurus offers an unprecedented array of technologies typically reserved for luxury cars at a price that is affordable."
 
In addition to being named official vehicle of the 2010 International CES, the 2010 Ford Taurus SHO was dubbed Esquire magazine's first-ever "Car of the Year."

The 2011 F-Series Super Duty boasts all-new powertrains, led by the Ford-designed, Ford-engineered and Ford-built 6.7-liter Power Stroke® V-8 turbocharged diesel engine, which delivers significantly improved torque and horsepower as well as class-leading fuel economy while maintaining best-in-class towing and payload capability; new engine also has biodiesel compatibility up to B20
A new 6.2-liter V-8 gasoline engine also is added to the lineup; it also delivers significantly improved torque and horsepower as well as class-leading fuel economy; new gas engine can run on regular-grade gasoline, E85 or any blend in between
An all-new 6R140 heavy-duty TorqShift® six-speed automatic transmission gets the new diesel engine's low-end torque to the ground faster; the six-speed transmission has full SelectShift(tm) capability, giving customers the convenience of a manual gearbox
.Available Ford Work Solutions(tm) plus a new flow-through console with 110-volt inverter, new seats and locking underseat storage add even more productivity in the Super Duty's role as office on wheels; new 4.2-inch LCD Productivity Screen delivers array of information
The new 6R140 transmission is available with segment-exclusive Live Drive Power Take Off (PTO) with the new diesel
DALLAS, Sept. 24, 2009 - Ford Super Duty customers expect and demand capability from the best-selling heavy-duty truck in America. For most Super Duty owners, it's the core asset of their business. Day after day, year after year, it's expected to deliver results in the most demanding situations. No nonsense. And never any excuses.
 
"Our Super Duty customers do some of America's toughest jobs," said Mark Fields, Ford president of The Americas. "Every day they're out there working with little fanfare and all they ask is the right tool for the job. The new 2011 Super Duty offers them a truck with best-in-class towing and payload, all-new powertrains and even more capability than ever to help them do their jobs."
 
Ford's F-Series has been the best-selling line of trucks in the U.S. for 32 straight years. The new Super Duty further underscores Ford's Built Ford Tough legacy.
 
"The 2011 Super Duty offers the widest array of solutions for the widest array of heavy-duty work truck customers," said Chris Brewer, chief engineer. "The Super Duty lineup offers a variety of body styles and powertrains, from diesel and gasoline engines, each with a new six-speed transmission, to pickup trucks and chassis cabs, each with the towing and payload capabilities that define Super Duty."
 
New diesel and gasoline engines deliver improved torque, horsepower, fuel economy
For 2011, Super Duty features both an all-new diesel and gasoline engine that are mated to a new transmission. The new diesel, the 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 turbocharged diesel engine, was designed, engineered and built by a Ford team dedicated solely to delivering this class-leading diesel engine to the next-generation Super Duty to enable continued best-in-class towing and payload.
 
Benefits of the new 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel engine:
 
.First use of a compacted graphite iron (CGI) engine block in a Super Duty-class vehicle in North America; CGI is stronger than cast iron, and Ford successfully has used the material in engine blocks in products around the world. The block structure was optimized for reduced weight and maximum strength to meet the demands of higher torque and more horsepower and enable class-leading fuel economy.
.Unique inboard exhaust and outboard intake architecture, an automotive-industry first for a modern production diesel, reduces overall exhaust system volume, which leads to better throttle response; a reduced exhaust system surface area minimizes heat transfer to the engine compartment and improves NVH (noise, vibration and harshness).
.The turbocharger features an industry-first dual-sided compressor wheel that works in a single housing. The unit is uniquely center-mounted on a pedestal low in the back of the valley for improved NVH. The design allows the single unit to deliver the advantages of a twin-turbocharger system in a smaller, more efficient package, combining the benefits of a small turbocharger (faster response) and a large turbocharger (ability to compress and force more air into the engine for more power) in one unit.
.The high-pressure fuel system injects fuel at more than 29,000 psi. The system delivers up to five injection events per cylinder per cycle using eight-hole piezo injectors to spray fuel into the piston bowl. The direct-injection system is calibrated and phased for optimum power, fuel efficiency and NVH.
.Aluminum cylinder heads for reduced weight; the mid-deck construction with dual water jackets provides increased strength and optimal cooling; six-head bolts, instead of four as found on other engines, help improve sealing and maintain cylinder integrity even with the higher firing pressures.
.Compatible up to B20 fuel, allowing greener fueling options of up to 20 percent biodiesel and 80 percent petroleum diesel.
"Developing the new 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 turbocharged diesel engine was an awesome endeavor," said Adam Gryglak, lead 6.7-liter diesel engineering manager. "After all the engineering and testing, we're confident this engine will ensure the new Super Duty continues its leadership in capability, reliability and productivity."
 
The engine and aftertreatment system for the 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 turbocharged diesel powertrain ably meets the new, more stringent 2010 federal emissions requirements for nitrogen oxides (NOx), which have to be lowered by approximately 80 percent.
 
New gasoline engine delivers more torque, horsepower than outgoing model
Ford tapped into a bit of its proud racing heritage to create the new 6.2-liter V-8 gasoline engine, which uses big-bore architecture to produce horsepower and class-leading fuel economy. The V-8's large bore (102 mm) allows for larger intake and exhaust valves for improved engine breathing, and the short stroke (95 mm) allows higher engine speed for increased horsepower.
 
Benefits of the new 6.2-liter V-8 gasoline engine include:
 
.SOHC valvetrain with roller-rocker shafts: The single overhead camshaft (SOHC) per cylinder head design results in a stiff valvetrain that allows optimized camshaft lift profiles and results in great low-speed torque. The roller-rocker shafts allow valve angles to be splayed, resulting in optimized intake and exhaust port layout for better breathing.
.Dual-equal variable cam timing: Intake and exhaust valve opening and closing events are phased at the same time to optimize fuel economy and performance throughout the engine speed range and throttle positions.
.Two spark plugs per cylinder: Due to the large bore size, two spark plugs per cylinder are used to more efficiently burn the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber, enabling better fuel economy and increased engine torque. The twin plugs also help the engine maintain a smooth, stable idle.
.Dual knock sensors: A knock sensor on each bank of cylinders of the V-8 engine allows the spark timing of each of the cylinders to be individually optimized real time, throughout the engine speed range. The engine learns the optimum timing via an adaptive algorithm.
.Better engine crankcase "breathing" and efficiency: Significant development work and computer-aided engineering optimized the cylinder block for more efficient airflow in the crankcase as the pistons move up and down in the bores, resulting in improved torque at higher engine speeds. Piston-cooling jets squirt oil on the underside of the pistons to keep the piston crowns cool under extreme operating conditions. The cooling jets also allow for a higher compression ratio for better engine efficiency and faster engine oil warm-up on cold starts, also improving fuel economy.
New TorqShift transmission harnesses and manages the power; Live Drive PTO available
The all-new 6R140 heavy-duty TorqShift six-speed automatic transmission was designed to manage the high low-end torque produced by the new diesel engine. The same basic transmission also is mated to the new gasoline engine, giving customers of either engine the ability to efficiently get the increased torque and horsepower to the ground. Engineered for greater efficiency and fuel economy, improvements include refined architecture to provide relatively low clutch speeds, which result in lower drag losses, and optimized fluid levels and drainback to reduce churning of fluid while also providing superior lubrication.
 
In addition to hardware-based improvements, the new transmission features enhanced Tow Haul with integrated engine exhaust braking and SelectShift Automatic capability, which includes Progressive Range Select and a manual mode, allowing customers to select the gear to suit their needs.
 
The new TorqShift transmission also enables the first application of Live Drive PTO (Power Take Off) in a Super Duty-class vehicle. On 2011 Super Duty diesels with the PTO prep option, the PTO output gear is linked through the torque converter to the engine crankshaft. This allows the transmission to power auxiliary equipment such as snowplows, aerial lifts, tow truck lifts, cement mixers or dump trucks. The power is available any time the engine is running.
 
Pioneered on agricultural applications, the Live Drive feature is particularly useful when mobile PTO function is required during start-stop operations, such as salt spreading or snow plowing. "A fully functional Live Drive mobile PTO will allow Super Duty customers to take full advantage of the equipment on their trucks," said Al Bruck, 6R140 transmission engineering manager.
 
Best-in-class towing and payload; new towing options
Putting all that power to work is what defines Super Duty. The 2011 Super Duty features increased towing and payload capability, extending its best-in-class rating, and also offering more towing from inside the bed. New is the first-ever factory-installed and warranted fifth wheel and gooseneck substructure directly attached to the frame.
 
"Our system is factory-installed and with a limited warranty from Ford. The electrical connection is mounted in the side of the bed wall, providing a clean installation," said Peter Frantzeskakis, vehicle engineering manager.
 
Particularly noteworthy are productivity enhancements to the F-450 pickup to benefit the heaviest-duty trailer tow customers. Unneeded weight was shed, helping to improve fuel economy and top speed. Even with these changes, the Super Duty F-450 pickup maintains its class-leading gross combined weight rating of 33,000 pounds.
 
Addition of Trailer Sway Control leads safety enhancements
Ford's lauded Trailer Sway Control (TSC) system joins the Super Duty lineup, giving those customers segment-first capability. TSC is integrated with AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control(tm), which now is standard on all single rear wheel (SRW) configurations.
 
The AdvanceTrac control module uses additional software to monitor the truck's motion when a trailer is attached. Trailer Sway Control can determine from the yaw motion of the truck if the trailer is swaying and take measures - such as applying precise braking or reducing engine torque - to help reduce the trailer sway.
 
For further peace of mind, the available integrated trailer brake controller, factory-installed and covered by a Ford limited warranty, offers smoother and safer operation due to its ability to interface with multiple vehicle systems.
 
Normal braking is proportional to driver brake pressure for smooth brake stops at all speeds. If the vehicle's Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) is engaged, the special trailer brake kicks in to minimize the potential for trailer wheel lock up. In Super Duty trucks with Trailer Brake Control towing trailers with electric brakes, the Ford system can, during a sway event, also apply brakes to the trailer to help stabilize it.
 
Other enhanced towing, off-road control features and safety improvements include:
 
.Hill Start Assist, which applies brakes to prevent rollback
.Hill Descent Control(tm), which uses the accelerator and brake to set, and then hold, the speed
.Electronic Locking Differential, which provides maximum traction by forcing the rear wheels to turn at the same speed
.Standard tire pressure monitoring system on all SRW (single rear wheel) models
.Optional side air bags and air curtains
.A new available 4.2-inch LCD screen includes information on specific features such as Trailer Brake Control and Tow Haul
Improved ride, handling and steering for a more comfortable experience
In addition to increased towing and payload capability and improved fuel mileage enabled by the new powertrains, customers of the next Super Duty also will benefit from improved ride, handling and steering. For 2011, the engineering team optimized the frame and suspension of the current Super Duty, particularly the leaf springs and spring rate, as well as adjusting the internal valving in all the shock absorbers to enable greater towing and payload capability with further ride refinement.
 
The steering gear also is new. The 4x2 F-250 and F-350 Super Duty feature modified steering system geometry to take better advantage of the twin I-beam suspension, which combines the performance of an independent suspension with the durability of a beam axle suspension. Improved response, precision and better on-center steering and control come from making the steering gear symmetric left to right.
 
The result is greater customer comfort, confidence and control in all situations.
 
"A big part of the comfort in Super Duty trucks comes through controllability," said Dan Gompper, vehicle dynamics supervisor. "No matter if the truck is loaded or unloaded, full trailer or empty trailer, customers can be fully confident."
 
Bold exterior, new flow-through console highlights interior
The new hood of the 2011 Super Duty, with its prominent inverted power dome, complements the new diesel and gasoline engines lurking beneath. "Super Duty" is stamped on the upper grille, with a larger Ford oval proudly gracing the front.
 
Inside, customers will benefit from a new reconfigurable flow-through console that improves the functionality of the truck. Storage space is increased about 60 percent, and at least 70 different configurations are possible. A 12-volt powerpoint is available at the rear of the console and another is located inside the main bin, which is lockable. A 110-volt power inverter is standard with all console configurations.
 
Improved productivity through Ford Work Solutions
For many customers, the Super Duty cab also serves as a mobile office. Industry-exclusive Ford Work Solutions is part of available technology to help customers stay connected with their business from the job site and track tools.
 
A new available 4.2-inch LCD Productivity Screen allows customers to take full advantage of the 2011 Super Duty's capabilities; an off-road message center has been added as well. The five-way button on the steering wheel allows customers to navigate through various menu options - several relating to fuel economy and towing convenience - never before available on a Super Duty truck.
 
Continuing the legacy of quality
With all-new powertrains enabling greater towing and payload capability, safety enhancements such as Trailer Sway Control added and greater functionality with available Ford Work Solutions, the new 2011 Ford Super Duty is poised to continue its legacy as America's premier work truck.
 
The accolades the current Super Duty has received, based on 2009 model year GQRS (Global Quality Research System) data, include:
 
.Best-in-Class TGW (Things Gone Wrong) for All Pickup Truck Segments
.Best-in-Class Customer Satisfaction among Heavy Duty Pickups
"With all-new powertrains and increased capability, the 2011 Super Duty improves on its proud heritage as the ultimate work truck," said Brewer.

.The 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor with an available all-new 6.2-liter V-8 engine produces 411 horsepower and 434 ft.-lb. of torque, making it the most powerful half-ton truck on the market today
.Building on the success of Ford Racing's vehicle programs and Raptor's success in the 2008 Baja 1000, Ford Racing will offer the FR Raptor XT
.The FR Raptor XT offers the capability of the Baja race truck, with the comfort of the production Raptor
.The FR Raptor XT off-road-only truck will have a production run of 50 units, priced at $99,950
LAS VEGAS, Nov. 3, 2009 - Just one year after Ford unveiled the 2010 F-150 SVT Raptor at the SEMA show, Ford today is announcing the long-anticipated power figures for the all-new 6.2-liter premium V-8 engine now available in this ultimate high-speed off-road performance truck.
 
When this optional powertrain in the Raptor arrives in showrooms in early 2010, the 6.2-liter V-8 will produce 411 hp and 434 ft.-lb. of torque, making Raptor the most powerful half-ton pickup available. Customers will now have the choice of two V-8 engines in the Raptor, Ford's proven 5.4-liter Triton V-8 or the new 6.2-liter V-8, which can be ordered beginning Dec. 1, with an MSRP of $41,995 including destination and delivery.
 
The F-150 SVT Raptor, launched in August with Ford's proven 320-hp 5.4-liter Triton V-8, is off to a strong start. Orders for the Raptor equipped with the standard 5.4-liter stand at more than 3,000, and the plant is at maximum capacity producing the ultimate high-speed off-road truck. In addition, Ford Racing will soon offer the 2011 FR Raptor XT, making Raptor even more capable in the rough stuff, but without giving up the control and comfort found in the production Raptor.
 
Considered an off-road-only pre-runner, the FR Raptor XT from Ford Racing builds upon the production Raptor's already impressive capabilities. The FR Raptor XT is nearly the same truck that finished the 2008 Tecate SCORE Baja 1000, but with all the comfort and convenience you'd find in a production Raptor. Essentially, FR Raptor XT is a turnkey professional pre-runner.
 
Key specifications of the FR Raptor XT include:
 
.500-hp (est.) 6.2-liter naturally aspirated engine
.Six-speed automatic transmission
.Electronically selectable 4x4; 4.56 gear sets; front and rear e-lockers
.A-arm with uni-ball front; four-link RR suspension
.15-inch front/18-inch rear wheel travel
.Coil-over with bypass shocks front and rear
.Chromoly "4130" rollcage; extensive skid plating
.Full featured interior, including power windows/windshield and air conditioning
.Factory seating with five-point restraints
.Off-road beadlock wheel/tires
.Unique appearance package including tubular front and rear bumper and integral lighting
The FR Raptor XT joins Ford Racing's successful turnkey race Mustangs available only from Ford dealers. There will be a production run of 50 units carrying a price of $99,950. The FR Raptor XT is not street legal, and is intended for off-road use only. Production timing will be announced at a later date

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 200,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company's automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit www.ford.com

CHICAGO, Feb. 10, 2009 - The 2010 Ford Harley-Davidson(tm) F-150 delivers a new standard of "custom cool," combining the smooth handling and legendary durability of America's best-selling truck with the authentic styling of Harley-Davidson, the industry leader in motorcycles.
 
This marks the 14th Harley-Davidson edition of an F-Series truck and latest in a line of Ford Harley-Davidson F-Series models dating back to 2000, which aim to appeal to customers who appreciate quality and unique details only this kind of collaboration can bring.
 
"Our successful co-branding, unmatched in the industry, offers customers true specialized truck luxury," said Derrick Kuzak, Ford's group vice president of Global Product Development. "Just like with our other associations, we've linked with an industry leader to offer the best
of the best."
 
The successful collaboration between these two icons of the open road has produced eight F-150 models, as well as six Super Duty F-250, F-350, and in 2009, the first Harley-Davidson F-450 edition truck. The 2010 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 is the first Harley-Davidson edition vehicle built off the award-winning new 2009 Ford F-150.
 
"This truck builds on the legacy of toughness that's been the hallmark of the Ford F-Series brand," said Matt O'Leary, chief engineer. "Now we're giving customers more of everything they love with the best F-150 and the boldest Harley-Davidson F-150 ever - featuring a fully differentiated design, all-wheel-drive capability, 22-inch wheels and a knock-out interior."
 
The exterior of the 2010 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 offers a bold front fascia and six-bar shaped billet style grille and boasts specialized forged aluminum and Harley-Davidson® chrome badging. The truck will have a lowered appearance because of a fully integrated deployable running board.
 
Also standard are 22-inch low-profile performance tires - the largest in the F-Series lineup -
and Euroflange forged wheels with a polished and painted center wheel cap. The paint selection is classic Harley-Davidson - Tuxedo Black and the first Ford application of Lava, a deep maroon with three-color metal flake.
 
The interior is customized to appeal to the truck buyer who appreciates the attention to detail for which both Ford and Harley-Davidson are renowned.
 
"There's a real tie-in between the truck's interior and exterior designs," said Patrick Schiavone, Design director. "It's very much like how some customized Harley-Davidson motorcycles have a prominent theme that runs through them. That's how we tie it in with custom bikes."
 
Also impressive are the seats and console lid, which features hand-made cloisonné badges; the console has a limited-edition serialization plate.
 
"These handmade badges continue our theme of premium Harley-Davidson offerings," said Schiavone. "Probably the only place that most people have seen hand-made cloisonné is on premium Harley-Davidson motorcycles. It's really high craftsmanship, and people will recognize it as another connection between the two brands."
 
Linkage is apparent even in the smallest details, such as adornments on the seats.
 
"The theme of the seat was designed to resemble a Harley® biker jacket," Schiavone said. "We even used authentic materials you'd find on Harley-Davidson MotorClothes® brand apparel."
 
The seat backs feature ribbed leather treatments, engraved Harley-Davidson button snaps and even zippered map pockets featuring zippers from Harley jackets.
 
It is important to the Ford Design team that the truck remain genuine to enthusiasts of Harley-Davidson, customers who traditionally are as loyal to their motorcycles as F-150 owners are to their trucks.
 
That's why the team meets regularly with Harley-Davidson designers and travels to motorcycle events throughout the year - including Daytona Bike Week, Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and Harley-Davidson dealer meetings - to talk to current and potential customers. The team wants to be sure that when Harley-Davidson owners or enthusiasts need a truck, this is the truck they choose.
 
"We talk to everyone we can; we find out what the customer values," O'Leary said. "We look at what they like, what they want, and what they wish they had, and we go from there."
 
"No one understands their customers better than Harley-Davidson and Ford," said Joanne Bischmann, vice president - Licensing, Harley-Davidson Motor Company. "We're proud to share the spirit of Harley-Davidson authenticity in a unique interpretation of America's favorite truck, the F-Series."
 
About the F-150
On the new F-150, there's a wealth of content complementing its unique appearance. The 2010 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 is equipped with a 5.4-liter three-valve engine, which is rated up to 320 horsepower and 390 ft.-lbs. of torque and mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with a sport-tuned exhaust and a top speed of 115 mph.
 
The truck is available with 4x2 or an optional all-wheel drive, which features settings of 4x2, AWD and 4x4 high, unique to the Harley-Davidson edition on the F-150 platform. All 2010 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 models will be SuperCrews.
 
The F-150 is new inside and out. The Ford truck team adopted a holistic, 360-degree approach to revamping the vehicle - from its segment-first features to the tough new exterior, a more spacious, flexible and refined interior and an unparalleled choice of cab styles and trim levels.
 
The improvements are just as dramatic beneath the sheet metal. They include a new high-strength, lighter-weight chassis that delivers even more horsepower, unsurpassed fuel economy and class-leading towing and payload capacity.
 
The new design has garnered an impressive array of awards:
 
.F-Series is the best selling vehicle in America for 27 consecutive years; best-selling truck for 32 consecutive years
.Motor Trend 2009 Truck of the Year Award(tm)
.Top honors as "Truck of Texas" as well as "Best Luxury Pickup" for the 2009 F-150 King Ranch from Texas Auto Writers Association
.2009 North American Truck of the Year
."Best Overall Half-Ton Pickup" from PickupTrucks.com
.2009 Best Redesigned Vehicle from Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com
."Automotive Excellence" award in the Workhorse Category from Popular Mechanics
.Motor Trend's Truck Trend Top 5 Trucks from Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) for 2009 Ford F-150 Heavy Duty DeWalt Contractor Concept
.Detroit Free Press Truck of the Year
.Detroit News Truck of the Year
.Best Truck by Florida Monthly
.Playboy's 2009 Best Pickup
."Accessory-Friendly Truck" Design Award from SEMA
.America's Safest Full-size Pickup with 5-star frontal and 5-star side-impact crash-test ratings, the highest possible scores, in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests.
."Top Safety Pick" from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for its standard safety technology: Safety Canopy side curtain air bags and AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control
."Residual Value" award from Automotive Leasing Guide (ALG) for retaining the highest percentage of its original price among 2009 full-size light duty pickups at the end of a conventional three-year lease, based on ALG projections

.Customer demand for fuel-efficient Fiesta continues strong in Europe and Asia Pacific markets as Ford prepares to introduce the Fiesta to U.S. buyers in December
.More than 40 percent of European customers are choosing higher end Titanium and Ghia trim levels of the new Fiesta
.From "Hot Magenta" in Spain to "Winning Blue" in China and "Panther Black" in Australia, Fiesta buyers are opting for a wide mix of colors
DEARBORN, Mich., Oct. 29, 2009 - One year after its debut, more than half a million customers have purchased the new Ford Fiesta, marking an important milestone as Ford Motor Company prepares to bring the fuel-efficient, global car to the U.S. and other key Asian Pacific markets next year.
 
The new Fiesta, the first in a wave of stylish vehicles being brought to world-wide markets under the ONE Ford plan, went on sale in Germany in October 2008. It quickly became the second-best-selling car for all markets in Europe and the leader in the European small car segment. The new Fiesta has also been a key driver behind Ford of Europe's market share gains, which are up 0.5 percentage points this year through September to 9.2 percent, the highest since 1999.
 
After its European introduction, the Fiesta was launched in South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and China. Global retail sales of the car reached 470,000 units through September of this year, with 430,000 sales in Europe and 40,000 in the Asia Pacific region. Continued strong demand for Fiesta through October has pushed the total number beyond 500,000.
 
"Customers around the world are recognizing the new Fiesta delivers on the global Ford DNA -- eye-catching design, innovation, outstanding driving dynamics and great value," said Jim Farley, group vice president of global marketing and Canada, Mexico and South America.
 
The new Fiesta will make its North American debut when it is revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show in December. Set to arrive in North American dealer showrooms next summer, the Fiesta already can claim more than 50,000 potential U.S. customers thanks to the Fiesta Movement, a social media initiative in which 100 young trendsetters are test driving and living with a European-spec Ford Fiesta for six months.
 
Customers so far have been drawn to higher end models of the Fiesta, with more than 40 percent of European buyers choosing the Titanium and Ghia trim levels. The variety of colors that Fiesta offers is also proving to be a hit.
 
So far this year customers in the U.K. and Germany, Ford of Europe's two largest markets, drive off in a "Panther Black" Fiesta more than any other color. Drivers in Italy, Switzerland, Netherlands and Greece are also among those countries that favor black.
 
However, buyers in Spain, Austria and Russia are selecting "Hot Magenta" as their top color. The Scandinavian countries are setting a pattern all their own. The Swedes select "Moondust Silver" most often. Norwegians favor "Hot Magenta." Denmark goes with "Panther Black," while the Finns tilt toward "Tango."
 
Top choices among China buyers are "Passion Orange" and "Winning Blue." But throughout Asia Pacific overall, the top-selling color is "Moondust Silver," with South African's also favoring "Frozen White" while Australians go for "Panther Black" in nearly equal numbers.
 
When the Fiesta hits American shores next year it will feature bold color choices, including "Bright Magenta" and "Lime Squeeze."
 
Fiesta Facts
Ford's Cologne Assembly Plant in Germany and Valencia Assembly Plant in Spain produce three-door and five-door hatch back versions of the new Fiesta. The Changan Ford Mazda Automobile Company manufacturing facility in Nanjing, China produces the five-door hatchback and four-door sedan versions of the Fiesta. The AutoAlliance Thailand production facility will start to build the five- and four-door versions of Fiesta as well in the second quarter of next year.
 
Ford's plant in Cuautitlan, Mexico, will build five-door hatchback and sedan versions of the new Fiesta for the United States and other North American markets.
 
Within five years, Ford expects to build about one million vehicles worldwide annually off of the new global B-car platform, the basis for the new Fiesta. Since Fiesta was launched in 1976, more than 12 million have been sold worldwide.
 
The Fiesta has won numerous international awards since it was introduced:
 
.Prestigious "red dot" award for international product design -- Germany's Essen-based Design Zentrum Nordrhein Westfalen
.Car of the Year 2009 by Britain's What Car? Magazine
.2009 Car of the Year - The Sun Motors
.2009 Croatian Car of the Year - Croatian Car Association
.2009 Hellenic Car of the Year - Journalists from Autobild, Drive Autocar
.Woman's Car 2009 - Hachette Filipacchi Editorial Group
.2008 Scottish Car of the year - Association of Scottish Motoring Writers
.The Best of the 2008 Geneva Show - Most Significant - Autoweek
.Top Gear, Car, Car & Driver and 4 Wheels
.2008 Croatian Car of the Year - Croatian Car Association
.2008 Best Supermini - What Car? magazine