Jeff had his doubts. But a little time in the Expedition fixed that. The safety technology, voice-activated navigation system, reverse camera and automatic fold-flat 3rd-row seat helped Jeff change his mind. His friend was equally impressed.

- INTERESTING LINKS -

" class="bold">Expedition turns them into believers.-Video

DEARBORN, Mich., Sept. 18, 2008 - America's best-selling pickup, the Ford F-Series, is raising the bar once again - this time with unsurpassed fuel efficiency on the new 2009 F-150, thanks to significant miles per gallon improvement across the entire F-150 lineup.
 
On sale in October, the new F-150 offers fuel economy that has improved an average of 8 percent across the entire lineup as a result of a wide-range of engineering enhancements. The fuel economy gains reach as high as 12 percent versus the prior model year on F-150 models equipped with the high-volume 3-valve, 5.4-liter V-8 engine. At the same time, the new F-150 delivers class-leading towing capability of 11,300 pounds and hauling capacity of 3,030 pounds - a combination no other competitor can match.
 
In addition, Ford is announcing the introduction of the new F-150 SFE "superior fuel economy" edition delivering up to 21 miles per gallon on the highway while still providing 7,500 pounds of towing capability - fuel economy that is unsurpassed in the full-size pickup segment.
 
"Ford has committed to have the best or equal to the best fuel economy with every new product we introduce, and we are delivering with the new F-150," said Matt O'Leary, Ford F-150 chief engineer. "Fuel economy has moved from 10th to third place among pickup buyers' top purchase considerations - right behind durability and value. The new F-150 delivers on all three as the industry leader."
 
F-150 SFE
 
The new SFE package will be available on F-150 SuperCrew XL and XLT 4X2 vehicles with 4.6-liter, 3-valve V-8 engines and 5.5-foot beds. The SFE pickup will achieve 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.
 
The SFE package trucks also feature a new fuel-efficient six-speed automatic transmission, a 3.15:1 rear axle and 18-inch chrome clad aluminum wheels with low rolling resistance P265/60R18 all-season tires.
 
"Earning the trust of so many truck customers during the past 31 years has taught us a lot about what they want and value from their F-150," O'Leary said. "In the past, there was a tradeoff - more fuel economy meant less capability and vice versa. With the new F-150, we didn't accept tradeoffs. We delivered capability and fuel economy."
 
The SFE package will be a no-cost option on XLT SuperCrew pickups with the chrome package and will cost $1,095 when ordered on XL SuperCrew pickups with the decor package.
 
Fuel Economy throughout the Lineup
 
The 8 percent improvement in fuel economy across the entire lineup of V-8 F-150s is the result of using lightweight ultra-high-strength steel to lighten the truck up to 100 pounds versus the current model and aerodynamic refinements.
 
The new F-150 is now best-in-class for aerodynamics. The new F-150 SuperCrew 4X2 with a 5.5-foot box has the lowest coefficient of drag - 0.403 - in the segment. That's 6 percent lower than a comparable 2008 F-150.
 
Key aero improvements for the new F-150 include:
 
A new chamfered shape to the rear of the cab, which incorporated the center-high-mount stop lamp. This shape helps direct aerodynamic wake over the pickup box efficiently.
The top of the tailgate, which angles outward to create a bold lip. This wider surface at the top of the tailgate works with the cab chamfering to direct airflow over the box efficiently.
The front bumper valence and spoiler design, which has been improved to better manage airflow underneath the truck without compromising off-roading.
In addition, as part of the fuel economy improvements, Ford's powertrain team delivered technology upgrades to make the F-150 powertrains more efficient.
 
The new six-speed automatic transmission offers a wider gear ratio span than four-speed transmissions, allowing engineers the flexibility to have responsiveness in low gears and better fuel economy in the taller gears. The new double-overdrive gearbox is designed to contribute a 4 to 6 percent fuel economy improvement.
 
Both the 5.4-liter and 4.6-liter 3-valve V-8 engines utilize open valve injection. This unique feature improves the air/fuel charge conditions in the combustion chamber, allowing greater spark advance at higher loads and engine speeds. This delivers increased horsepower during towing and higher rpm operations, lower emissions and more efficient use of fuel.
 
The F-150 also regulates gas consumption by using aggressive deceleration fuel shut-off. The fuel shut-off is automatic and requires no unusual actions from the driver. When the driver releases the accelerator pedal, the system temporarily turns off the fuel. The flow of fuel seamlessly resumes when the truck reaches a low speed or the driver accelerates again.
 
To prevent engine hesitation normally associated with fuel interruption, Ford's powertrain team developed proprietary software to integrate the technology with the F-150's powertrains.

How do you take the best selling vehicle in Canada for the past five years and redesign it so it is better?
 
That's the dilemma that was facing Ford when it came time to design the 2009 F150. I think they were successful, and they started by talking with existing F150 owners.
 
Ford had F150 owners show the designers and engineers how they used their trucks -- what they loaded in the bed, what they towed, what they had added to the trucks, and how they used the interior space. From this several key items were identified.
 
Many owners found the deep box sides made it difficult to reach items inside. Designers suggested a lower box side, but the owners didn't want to give up cargo space so Ford designed a folding side step that fits under the box in front of the rear wheels. Touch the button in the centre with your toe and the spring-loaded step folds out from beneath the box. Load or unload your gear and then push the step back in again with your foot. The step has a 500-pound load capacity and would be a great addition to any truck.
 
Other features incorporated from their research include a capless fuel filler -- no more missing fuel caps and no problems with leaking or loose fuel caps.
 
A backup camera fits under Ford oval on the tailgate and displays an image in the inside rear view mirror or on the optional Nav screen. A centre line on display enables even a novice driver to back up to a trailer the first time.
 
Ford claims they designed the F150 from the inside out.
 
The cab is hydroformed for increased rigidity and sound control. Front doors are longer so the B-pillar is moved back for better driver visibility.
 
The Supercrew cab is now six inches longer, with that room going to back seat passengers. There was several inches of room between my knee's and the front seats even when the front bucket seats were all the way back. A flat load floor under the rear seat and "one-finger" folding seats make loading even large boxes a breeze.
 
Many truck owners use their truck like an office, so the F150 console has built in hanging file folder rails, a power outlet inside and room for two laptops.
 
The console can be locked for additional security. Ford's Sync connectivity system enables hands-free voice operation of cell phones, audio and MP3 units.
 
Outside, subtle features reduce aerodynamic drag. The rear of the cab roof angles slightly and the tailgate has a larger flat molding on the top. A front air dam under the vehicle is almost unseen but reduces airflow beneath the truck. Much more noticeable is the bold three-bar grille and muscular body design. Beneath the hood, you can get a choice of three V8 engines -- a two-valve 4.6 litre, a three-valve 4.6 litre and a 5.4 litre Triton V8. Horsepower figures haven't been released yet but Ford claims they will be best in class and come with improved fuel economy.
 
A six-speed automatic transmission helps with both performance and economy. The transmission tow/haul mode changes shift points when accelerating and prevents upshifts on downhill grades.
 
Touch the brake pedal and the transmission will downshift another gear or two for additional engine braking.
 
The integrated trailer brake controller from the Ford SuperDuty is now offered on the F150 and trailer sway control is standard equipment. Yaw and roll sensors on the truck detect trailer sway.
 
The brake controller works with the stability control system to selectively apply the trailer and truck brakes and control engine torque to brinThe 2009 F150 is offered in seven trim levels, including a new premium Platinum series. The F150 Platinum's top quality leather, tuxedo stitching, Lacrosse Ash woodgrain accents, a satin chrome grille and 20-inch 16-spoke polished aluminum wheels portray luxury inside and out.
 
Matt O'Leary, the F150's chief engineer says that if you took all the F150s sold in Canada and parked them end to end, they would stretch from Halifax to Vancouver.
 
Going on sale later this year, the 2009 F150 is a combination of luxury, strength, boldness and innovation that builds on all those past pickups and will continue to be a key part of Ford's future.
 

Automakers usually have specific route directions for journalists to follow during product launches. This week, Ford told me to go to Hell -- and it turned out the rolling, twisty, rural Michigan roads around that hamlet northwest of Ann Arbor were ideal for demonstrating the upgrades the company has made to its 2009 Escape.
 
The Escape has established itself as the best-selling compact sport-utility vehicle in a very competitive segment of the Canadian market, so one understands Ford's reluctance "to mess with a good formula," as marketing plans manager Rick Gemin says.
 
So, when the Escape's interior and exterior were freshened last year, the folks at Ford were relieved to see consumers accepting the changes so well that sales jumped 26 per cent.
 
Now, Ford engineers have given the Escape more punch to boost its fun quotient by fine-tuning the SUV's internal components, including the powertrain and suspension.
 
Under the hood, the four-cylinder and V6 engines have been tweaked to deliver more horsepower and better fuel economy.
 
The 3.0-litre V6 has been upgraded with new intake and exhaust manifolds, camshafts, injectors and cylinder heads, resulting in an additional 40 horsepower over the previous engine's 200 ponies.
 
The changes have helped shave a couple of seconds off the SUV's zero-to-100-kilometres-an-hour time -- it can now reach 100 in 9.1 seconds -- while also trimming its thirst for fuel by an expected 1.6 kilometres per 3.79 litres.
 
The four-cylinder has also been improved, with its displacement increased to 2.5 litres from 2.3, plus the addition of variable intake cam timing and new intake and exhaust manifolds. These advanced technologies have given the four-banger an 11 per cent increase in horsepower (to 153) and a 1.7-second improvement in its acceleration to 100 km/h.
 
While the engine refinements contribute to lower fuel consumption, the addition of a new six-speed automatic transmission, which replaces the dated four-speed box, also plays a significant role.
 
The throttle response was noticeably quicker with both powertrains during several hours of test driving, especially the four-cylinder, which had significantly more pep when driven back to back with a 2008 model.
 
The new 2.5L four-cylinder, recalibrated to the more fuel-efficient Atkinson cycle, is also in the 2009 Escape Hybrid.
 
Its effect on this model's performance is similar, although the hybrid system still uses a continuously variable transmission. Changes to the engine's processor technology have made the transition between the gas and electric modes nearly imperceptible.
 
The rear suspension on all 2009 models has been retuned and a new stabilizer bar has been added, while the front springs and shocks -- as well as the steering -- have been reworked.
 
In driving over a variety of road surfaces around Hell, the ride and handling were noticeably better. Even more obvious was the reduction in road noise emanating from the rear area of the vehicle.
 
Engineers have been working on making the cabin quieter and their efforts have paid off.
 
The 2009 Escape will arrive in showrooms by late July or early August.
 
Pricing hasn't been announced, but expect little change from current numbers

EDMONTON - Two friends who saw me in the 2009 Ford Flex Limited AWD told me it looked like a hearse.
 
Funny, because I certainly didn't feel like an undertaker. The Flex is a thoroughly lively people-mover; it makes you want to hop in and go -- somewhere, anywhere, anytime. New for 2009, the Flex is a full-sized, V6-powered crossover utility vehicle that seats six -- seven if you opt for a second-row bench seat.
 
The Flex is here, and if your needs dictate a larger vehicle with seating for six or seven, it is a capable and attractive choice.
 
The bold two-box design is from the school that says it's hip to be square. Horizontal grooves along the body accentuate its length and evoke "woody" wagons of old. On the tester, an optional white roof was literally the icing on the Cinnamon Metallic cake. (The two-tone roof costs $500 and is worth every penny, in my opinion.)
 
Under the chunky hood is a smooth 3.5-litre Duratec V6 that produces 262 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. The transmission is a six-speed automatic. Acceleration is strong; the gearing allows for high revs under hard throttle. But cruising at 110 kilometres per hour, the engine turns at a leisurely 2,000 r.p.m.
 
Handling is safe and predictable. The ride is compliant and comfortable, thanks in part to the luxurious 117.9-inch wheelbase. The four-wheel independent suspension soaks up bumps well and body roll is controlled. The steering is nicely weighted -- the wheel requires a light effort yet the Flex responds precisely to steering inputs. Four-wheel disc brakes produce sure-footed stops.
 
Safety features include stability control, rollover prevention, a tire-pressure monitoring system and Ford's Safety Canopy System, which uses side-impact and rollover sensors to direct deployment of the vehicle's side-curtain airbags.
 
The interior is inviting. The driver's seat -- perforated black leather in the tester -- is positioned to give a commanding view of the road through the upright windshield. The large steering wheel should telescope but it only tilts. Power-adjustable pedals are available in a convenience package. Memory functions allow drivers to save seat, mirror and pedal settings.
 
The tester had the $1,700 Vista Roof, which enhances the cabin's airy feeling. The package includes a tilt-and-slide moonroof above the front seats, and three non-opening skylights -- two glass panels over the second-row seats and a single panel over the third row. Each skylight has a manual shade.
 
Other luxury touches are also welcome. Wood inlay adorns the expansive dashboard, which is dominated by an eight-inch multi-purpose touch screen. It's used for the navigation system, to display images from the back-up camera, and is also part of the superb 12-speaker Sony audio system. The Limited model comes with Ford's SYNC, a voice-activated system that integrates MP3 players and Bluetooth-enabled cellphones.
 
Ford says the Flex has up to 32 seating configurations. Seats in the second and third rows fold flat, and so does the front passenger seat, if you need to transport some javelins or a very long baguette.
 
With the third-row seats down, the Flex has 43.2 cubic feet of cargo room. Drop the second row and the cargo hold expands to a cavernous 83.2 cubic feet.
The second-row seats are heated and leather-covered, like those up front.
 
The wide, reclining chairs slide fore and aft, providing limo-like legroom -- up to 44.3 inches. The tester had a refrigerator in a console between the second-row seats. It's tiny -- good only for a few cans of pop (or some Popsicles when it's in freezer mode.) Second-row passengers get their own climate controls and, in the Limited, a DVD/CD player with wireless headphones.
 
The second-row seats fold and tumble to allow access to the third row, where the seats -- in imitation leather -- are mounted higher to afford a better view. But climbing back there is cumbersome, and I suspect most Flex buyers will leave those seats for young children.
 
Visibility is decent toward the rear, despite the vehicle's length --the side windows aren't tall but they are wide. An optional backup camera shows what's directly behind when you're in reverse. Get too close to an object and a sensor sounds a warning. I found the camera useful for checking my position against the curb after parallel parking.
 
The Flex also has a new, easy-to-use capless fuel filler. (A locking cap is available for drivers worried that someone will steal their high-priced gas.)
 
In 300 kilometres of combined city and highway driving, the tester averaged 12.4L/100 km on regular unleaded.

Ford performance enthusiast information is now available via hotline and online
New www.FordPerformance.com site promotes Ford enthusiast clubs, lifestyle, info
Site tied to Ford's exclusive toll-free Performance & Tech Line 1-800-FORD-788
First enthusiast clubs promoted on web site include MCA, SVTOA and IMBOC
More clubs will enjoy a special, enhanced relationship with Ford and Ford Racing
DEARBORN, Mich., April 17, 2007 - Ford Racing has launched an all-new web-based initiative, www.FordPerformance.com, that puts a face and a place on Ford Motor Company's connection to enthusiast clubs and the performance aftermarket. The Ford Performance Group is centered on a web portal that helps facilitate a more interactive relationship between Ford and its past, present and future performance customers.
 
"We recognize the important role that Ford loyalists play in raising consumer awareness of Ford Motor Company," noted Jamie Allison, Manager, Ford Racing Performance Group, "and performance enthusiasts tend to be the most passionate, active and influential customers of all. This new web-based asset allows us to consolidate our communications with them under one virtual roof. It will also enhance our all-important relationships with Ford-based clubs, coordinate our contact with Ford-centered events and help showcase the exciting new performance offerings from Ford - all in one place.
 
In fact, just like we'd done with Bullitt, we plan to keep www.FordPerformance.com on the inside track for information supporting the launch of the next-generation Mustang."
 
Visitors to www.FordPerformance.com will find a host of enthusiast content, including:
 
Regular feature stories about Ford-based clubs, members, events and products
Ford-oriented enthusiast club and membership info, with links to club sites
A Ford performance vehicles "heritage" archives section
Ford Performance Info Center contact and merchandise information
Portal to Ford Racing, Performance Parts and Ford Vehicles web sites
Exclusive Ford performance vehicle "deep-dive" info and photos
Using an umbrella approach, www.FordPerformance.com brings unique resources to bear on communicating with Ford enthusiasts and promoting the lifestyle they enjoy. Through the website, Ford will promote clubs, events, products and people in the world of Ford performance, while the clubs will promote select Ford communications with their members.
 
What's more, the Ford Performance Group program includes more than just the establishment of a website-based information clearinghouse. It also includes the Ford Performance Info Center (1-800-FORD-788) which provides club referrals and event information for participating organizations, and handles enthusiast questions on a variety of performance Fords. Plus live, expert technical assistance on the use of Ford performance hardware is readily available via the Ford Racing Tech Line staff.
 
"Launching the www.FordPerformance.com web site in support of our Info Center and Tech Line is great news for Ford performance enthusiasts," said Mickey Matus, Ford Performance Group Marketing Manager. "Together they provide the only service of its kind offered by any of the major automakers. No one else promotes their enthusiast clubs like this, or gives their performance customers a direct line to the factory. And thanks to our years of working with enthusiasts at the grassroots level, we're now able to offer clubs what their organizers had told us they wanted most: a way to promote their Ford performance passion, and the ability to gain a sustainable connection with the company."
 
Better still, members of clubs that join the Ford Performance Group qualify for a discount on purchases of special Ford enthusiast merchandise. Items available through the Info Center include out-of-print SVT product brochures, tech data cards and posters, official Certificates of Authenticity as well as rare, hardcover Mustang, SVT and Ford GT books.
 
It's no accident that the first three clubs to participate in the program are tied to current Ford performance vehicle offerings. "While we've long enjoyed strong support from Ford, establishing promotions for our club is a great benefit to MCA members," said Mustang Times Editor Mary Jean Wesche of the Mustang Club of America. But deemed just as important to enthusiast owners is the role of the Ford Performance Info Center.
 
"SVTOA members have found the toll-free hotline to be a valuable resource," noted Marcie Cipriani, national director of the Special Vehicle Team Owners Association. "That connection really delivers on the brand promise of a special vehicle." Indeed, it was the International Mustang Bullitt Owners Club's newfound connection with Ford that netted them an advance peek at the 2008 Bullitt - and an appreciation of the new initiative. "On behalf of IMBOC Founder Mike Affourtit and our club members, we're excited about our new relationship with the Ford Performance Group," said Tony Alonso, the Ford liaison for IMBOC, "and we look forward to our continued collaboration."
 
Plans are already in place to expand the program to include more enthusiast vehicle clubs, including those for the Mustang Mach 1, SVO and Pace Cars, as well as the Mercury Marauder and Taurus SHO, just to name a few. For now, enthusiasts are urged to take a look at the world of Ford performance by visiting www.FordPerformance.com, and to check back often to see just how enthusiast owners keep "Driving Ford Passion."

- INTERESTING LINKS -

Ford Performance Website

Canwest News Service
Published: Tuesday, October 07, 2008
WINDSOR, Ont. -- Ford will introduce a new electronic governor next fall on its 2010 Focus that will allow parents of teen drivers to limit the car's top speed to 129 kilometres an hour and its audio system to less than half the volume.
 
Called MyKey, Ford calls the system a "simple software upgrade" to its existing passive anti-theft system. The company says it intends to eventually offer the system on its entire vehicle lineup.
 
The program also includes a feature that mutes the car's sound system until seatbelts are buckled in both occupied front seats. A reminder tells the driver why the sound system is muted.
 
MyKey can help promote safer driving, particularly among teens, by encouraging seatbelt use, limiting speed and reducing distractions,"said Susan Cischke, Ford group vice-president of environment and safety engineering.
 
Ford chose a top speed of 129 km/h (80 mile per hour) because some U.S. states have speed limits of 80 m.p.h., said Christine Hollander, spokeswoman for Ford of Canada. "It's above all the speed limits we have in Canada."
 
The MyKey system will be offered as a standard feature on the Focus at no charge, Hollander said Monday.
 
"It's something that will migrate quickly to our other vehicles and become standard on other Ford vehicles as well."
 
The owner of the car will be able to set the speed limit for the Focus and limit the audio system to 44% of its full volume by programming the ignition key in the dashboard of the car.
 
Reaction to the feature has been swift, but not entirely favourable.

The Ford-tough testing includes 20 individual dynamometer-level tests designed to push the engine to its limits.

DEARBORN, Mich., Sept. 3, 2008 - With grueling durability testing underway, a fleet of Ford's 3.5-liter EcoBoost(tm) V-6 engines is proving that this new technology is ready to deliver years of reliable V-8 power with V-6 fuel economy to customers when it goes into production next year.
 
"EcoBoost was engineered with a relentless, disciplined focus on quality that required a zero-defect mindset from engineers as well as our supplier partners," said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. "The finished product will represent the best combination of production-ready engine technologies of today, poised and ready to deliver the performance, fuel economy, emission levels and value that customers expect."
 
To date, a fleet of direct-injection twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 engines have endured more than 12,000 hours of durability operation in Ford's Dynamometer Laboratory in Dearborn, which is equivalent to more than 500,000 miles of customer driving.
 
"EcoBoost is undergoing the durability and reliability tests that we put all Ford engines through, and the performance we are seeing shows that the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine is a high-quality, top-performing engine that meets or exceeds all our reliability targets and is deserving of Ford's five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty," said Brett Hinds, Ford's Advanced Engine Design and Development manager.
 
The Ford-tough testing includes 20 individual dynamometer-level tests designed to push the engine to its limits. The testing protocol verifies the reliability of the complete engine system under maximum engine speeds and loads, coolant and oil temperatures and customer driving patterns.
 
The Road Cycle Durability test, for example, is designed to replicate real-world customer driving and vehicle maintenance patterns. For this test, engines with EcoBoost technology were subjected to 1,000 cold starts, followed by sustained operation at peak torque of 340 lb-ft and peak power of 340 hp. During the course of the test, engine coolant temperatures ranged from 12 degrees Celsius (around 53 degrees Fahrenheit) to 95 degrees Celsius (203 degrees Fahrenheit).
 
In total, this single test required 1,000 hours of extreme engine operation, representing more than 60,000 miles of customer driving.
 
"This was a big test for us, and the EcoBoost fleet passed with flying colors," Hinds said of the Road Cycle test. "We're demonstrating that EcoBoost is ready to provide consistent performance in varied conditions."
 
Extra Measures
 
Not leaving any stone unturned, the Ford engineering team took extra measures to test the EcoBoost fleet's durability, creating a subset of checks to verify the reliability of critical components. At the top of this checklist: the high-pressure direct injection fuel system and parallel operating twin turbocharger boost system, the two technologies that paired together give EcoBoost the ability to perform like a larger displacement engine, while offering the fuel economy associated with a smaller displacement engine.
 
Extensive CAE models of the turbo and exhaust manifolds, for instance, were created to ensure that EcoBoost technology was not only durable, but that it provided just the right pleasing-to-the-ear engine hum. Engineers also conducted multiple thermal and mechanical fatigue simulations of the exhaust system, examining the performance of the cylinder head interface, exhaust manifold, catalyst and gaskets.
 
Complementing CAE models of the fuel system also helped the engineering team better understand fuel pressure waves within the direct injection system to further optimize its performance.
 
"Because the 3.5-liter EcoBoost employs the latest in injection and turbocharger thermal management technologies, our tests have shown that we have effectively eliminated the legacy concerns sometimes associated with these systems, including high-mileage combustion deposits on the injectors and turbo bearing coking," said Hinds.
 
Beyond the dynamometer, Ford engineers are completing durability testing with installed EcoBoost engine systems on a mix of products, including the Lincoln MKS and Ford Flex at Ford's Michigan Proving Ground in Romeo, Mich. Here, the EcoBoost fleet is being subjected to multiple on-track tests to measure its performance at, for example, high speeds and while towing a trailer.
 
In total, these on-track exercises will rack up the equivalent of another 500,000 miles of customer driving, bringing total durability test miles for the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 fleet to more than 1 million.
 
Testing Continues
 
Prior to its debut on the Lincoln MKS next year, the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine will have completed all of the same corporate standard durability tests that award-winning engines have endured, including the Duratec 3.5-liter V-6 available on the Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX and the 4.6-liter V-8 available on the Ford Mustang GT.
 
This punishing schedule includes not only the dynamometer and durability testing conducted in Dearborn and Romeo, but high-altitude testing conducted in Denver, Colo., and extreme hot and cold weather testing, conducted at the Volvo Arizona Proving Ground and Florida's Eglin Air Force Base, respectively.
 
"With the extensive dynamometer and vehicle-level durability testing we are subjecting this engine to, we are confident that the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine is going to further strengthen Ford Motor Company's reputation for delivering reliable, high-quality engines," said Hinds.

How can a car add balance to your life? Ford's exclusive AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control(tm) is the element of calm you need in an unstable driving situation, helping to keep your wheels firmly planted on the road.

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" class="bold">AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control(tm)Video

Riding on Foose Design 22-inch wheels and Eibach springs customized for a lower appearance, the Foose Flex exterior features a custom-mixed, two-tone blue and cream pearl paint job. Inside, this color scheme continues with three-tone blue, gray and tan premium leather surfaces by Katzkin Leather. The Foose Flex reflects the right amount of expressive luxury appeal. See how it comes to life in this behind-the-scenes video. *Not available for purchase.

- INTERESTING LINKS -

" class="bold">Chip Foose Flex Concept* Video

Ford is moving in-car connectivity forward with the launch of an available next-generation navigation system, with available SIRIUS Travel Link(tm) - offering traffic data, weather, fuel prices, sports, movie listings, and more.

- INTERESTING LINKS -

" class="bold">Next Gen Nav: More Than Just Directions

SYNC is award-winning technology that brings connectivity to a new level, letting you make hands-free calls from your car, use voice activation to play music, and much more. Plus SYNC is easy to use, making driving more fun.

- INTERESTING LINKS -

" class="bold">SYNC: How can you stay connected? Video

Ford continues to enhance the driving experience with new technologies such as the rear view camera. This feature shows you areas that you may miss when checking mirrors alone, and can be found on several current Ford models.

- INTERESTING LINKS -

" class="bold">Ford Looks Forward by Looking Back Video

Straight from the Bronx, in this corner: the new 2009 Ford Flex, tricked out by urban legend, Funkmaster Flex. It's cloaked in signature Brandywine paint by House of Kolor with a faux brushed aluminum roof. To pack more punch, it rides on a lowered suspension and custom 22" rims. The inside? A total knockout: Katzkin custom seat covers, blistering Sony sound system, Invisions DVD headrests and of course, Funkmaster Flex custom floormats. Watch the video to see how it's done. *Not available for purchase.

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" class="bold">The Flex2 Concept* by Funkmaster Flex Video

Ford Work Solutions(tm) is an optional suite of innovative solutions that is an industry exclusive. It's one of many examples of innovation and technology from Ford -- built for the way you operate day-in and day-out. Coming Fall 2008.

- INTERESTING LINKS -

" class="bold">Innovation built for you- Video

From recharging the engine's battery pack to viewing the system status on the available Hybrid Energy Navigation Audiophile system display, see just how the Escape Hybrid technology works.

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" class="bold">The technology of Escape Hybrid-Video

What mood are you in? Purple? Red? Maybe a shade of blue? With Fusion's optional ambient lighting, you can add colorful accents in the front and rear footwells, front center console vent, and two cupholders.

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" class="bold">Ambient Lighting sets the mood-Video

Whether your Taurus is Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive, the anxiety you'd ordinarily feel when driving on slippery surfaces will be greatly reduced thanks to the optional AdvanceTrac® Electronic Stability Control System.

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" class="bold">Taurus - AdvanceTrac.-Video

Ford Edge offers a host of conveniences, like available power liftgate, remote EasyFold(tm) rear seat release, and the class-exclusive panoramic Vista Roof(tm) option.

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" class="bold">The interior conveniences of Edge-Video

When equipped with the 3.0L V6 engine and optional Class II Trailer Tow Prep Package, Escape is capable of towing a whole lot of gear for the lake, the campsite or the home-improvement project.

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" class="bold">Escape tows up to 3,500 lbs.-Video

We recently surprised some people who own a competitive vehicle. We swapped their ride with a Ford Vehicle featuring an available Navigation System and their reactions showed that we're moving in the right direction.

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" class="bold">Real people. Real opinions: Navigation -Video

On- or off-road, Escape's available advanced 4WD system is always on and always working to help provide maximum traction.

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" class="bold">Escape - Intelligent 4WD.

Ford scientists know the whole is only as good as the sum of its parts. That's why they start developing with the very smallest part ­-- the atom. Making improvements at this level results in a better finished product for you.

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" class="bold">Building a Vehicle From the Atom Up Video

Ford Educate to Escape contest winners, Kelly Creek Elementary, take us through their green makeover-- high-efficiency water fixtures and light bulbs, eco-friendly white boards, flooring, even playground equipment and matting!

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" class="bold">Ford Takes Green to School.-Video

Ford has developed soy foam seats, a feat previously thought to be impossible. These sturdy yet quickly biodegradable seats are one of many examples of Ford's commitment to environmentally sustainable materials.

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" class="bold">Why would you sit on a soybean? -Video

The team of designers at Ford pulls inspiration from everything around them, and pours the best of it all into their work. Here, they tell you what it takes to give a vehicle the look and feel it needs in order to be just right.

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" class="bold">Design Is in the Details-Video

Ford takes durability testing to the extreme, making sure their cars and trucks will last -- whether it's as simple as making sure the fuel filler door is secure, or as complex as running an entire vehicle through sub-zero temperatures.

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" class="bold">Do Tougher Parts Make Longer Lasting Cars?

Ergo Days is Ford's way of using hands-on experience to train and educate engineers about ergonomic issues in the plant - allowing them to make suggestions that make tough jobs easier, increasing quality for the customer.
Related Topics:

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" class="bold">Can improving tough jobs help build better cars?

Ford is a world leader in paint technology, using advanced processes for great results. In addition to offering the hottest colors, Ford's 3-wet process is an award-winning technique that offers a greener approach to paint

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" class="bold">What's tough, clean & good-looking?-Video

Ford built the world's first drivable fuel cell hybrid electric plug-in: the Ford Edge with HySeries Drive(tm), and has already manufactured a fleet of Hydrogen fuel-celled Focus -- helping to bring even greener cars to our future.

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" class="bold">Is Anything Greater than Zero? -Video

Ford is offering six-speed automatic transmissions in many of its new vehicles, a move expected to increase performance and fuel efficiency -- just another way to bring you greener miles without sacrificing performance.

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" class="bold">6-Speed Transmission: Powerful + Efficient -Video

Ford has always used racing to develop new technology, and the Fusion 999 is the pinnacle of that - reaching a land speed record for a production-based hydrogen fuel cell car, it's a sign of greener things to come.

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" class="bold">Fusion 999: How fast can green go? -Video

Keeping you safe isn't just about safety belts and air bags. That's why Ford is a leader in automotive safety with its Personal Safety System®

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" class="bold">Safety technology pioneered by Ford -Video

Biofidelics. It's a fancy word for making crash test dummies as lifelike as possible. Because the way we see it, the more human our testing, the more human the results.

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" class="bold">How Influential Can a Dummy Be?-Video

Kate, who had never driven a Ford, knows exactly what she wants from a car. Dependability, good gas mileage, comfort and space. Focus gave her all that and more.

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" class="bold">Kate falls for Focus.-VIDEO

Steve didn't expect much from a Ford vehicle. Fusion truly surprised him. He loved the all-wheel drive, the navigation system and the MP3-capable sound system. But Fusion reached more than Steve -- it turned his friend into a believer, too.

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" class="bold">Fusion converts a skeptic.-Video

When Christine heard "Ford," she thought "truck." That all changed with Edge. Its luxurious style and advanced technology, especially SYNC, quickly won Christine over. And her friend, too.

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" class="bold">Edge changes Christine's perception of Ford.-Video

Friends, Tara and Heather were both very surprised by Taurus. They weren't expecting so much style, comfort and cool technology from a Ford car. Tara loved SYNC. And they both loved the safe feeling Taurus gave them on the road.

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" class="bold">"This is a Taurus?". -Video

Ford is the only US automaker that has VIRTTEX, a driving simulation technology that allows testing that couldn't happen in the real world. Studying driver distraction allows Ford to make your driving experience safer today.

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" class="bold">VIRTTEX: Can it help make you safer?-Video

Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles continue their impressive quality gains, collectively improving for the fourth straight year and moving into a virtual tie with Honda-Acura and Toyota-Lexus-Scion for the 2008 model year, according to the latest U.S. Global Quality Research System (GQRS) study.
 
Ford F-Series Super Duty and Lincoln Mark LT rank atop their respective segments with fewest "things gone wrong" (TGW) and in customer satisfaction. Ford Mustang GT500 had the least number of TGW among sports cars.
 
Overall, 18 of 24 Ford domestic brand vehicles posted TGW improvements, including the hot-selling Ford Focus, which matched the Toyota Corolla.
 
DEARBORN, Oct. 10, 2008 - Ford Motor Company's surging domestic quality is now equal to the best in the industry for the 2008 model year, according to the latest U.S. Global Quality Research System (GQRS) study.
 
Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles collectively reduced "things gone wrong" (TGW) by 7.7 percent compared to last year and are now statistically equivalent with Honda (including Acura) and Toyota (including Lexus and Scion) atop the list of seven major automakers in the survey.
 
From 2004 to 2008, Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicle quality, as measured by a reduction in TGW, has improved by 33 percent.
 
"This is One Ford at its best. It's taken thousands of people continuously working together with laser-like focus every day to boost vehicle quality for our customers to the top of the pack," said Bennie Fowler, Ford group vice president, Global Quality. "But this is a never-ending journey. The goal now is to distance ourselves from our top competitors. We want to be the sole quality leader."
 
The 2008-launched Ford F-Series Super Duty and the Lincoln Mark LT ranked first in their respective segments in both TGW and customer satisfaction. Ford Mustang GT 500 topped the sports car category in TGW.
 
Overall, 18 of 24 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles recorded TGW improvements. Ford's newly launched Focus improved significantly in TGW and customer satisfaction, now equaling the Toyota Corolla in both categories. The Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan are significantly better in TGW than the Toyota Camry, which they tied in customer satisfaction.
 
"We are consistently delivering improved quality by following standardized, disciplined processes throughout Ford," said Fowler. "This is particularly impressive considering the difficult challenges we've had to overcome."
 
Ford also ranked best in class for TGW performance in the functional areas of Vehicle Engineering and Electrical among major manufacturers. Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles averaged 1,287 TGW per 1,000 vehicles, a reduction of 108 versus a year ago. Customer satisfaction with the company's vehicles reached its highest level ever, improving one point to 77 percent.
 
The 2008 model-year GQRS survey, conducted for Ford by RDA Group of Bloomfield Hills, Mich., solicits feedback on vehicle trouble and customer satisfaction from owners of all major makes and models after three months in service.
 

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 229,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company's core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit www.ford.com.

Ford brand quality improves at a rate faster than the industry average.

Ford Motor Company wins 10 vehicle honors, including three top segment performers.

Ford brand has shown continuous improvement in this study since 2004.

DEARBORN, Mi., June 4, 2008 - Ford brand vehicles improved in quality at a rate faster than the industry average, according to a customer-based initial quality study released today by J.D. Power and Associates. Ford brand also is the only full-line brand to show continuous improvement since 2004.
 
The research firm's 2008 Initial Quality Study (IQS) showed Ford brand improving by eight points over last year's study, besting the industry average seven-point rate of improvement and continuing its five-year upward trend.
 
Mercury improved by four points over last year, and the Lincoln brand exceeded the industry average. Mazda is the study's most improved brand jumping 36 points from the 2007 study.
 
Furthermore, Ford and Mercury are among the study's top non-luxury brands, with both placing in the top ten and moving up in the brand level rankings compared with last year's performance. The Ford brand moved up to eighth place from 10th, while Mercury moved up two spots to sixth place, just ahead of the Honda brand. Lincoln ranked 15th among all brands.
 
"For customers who make their purchase decision based on quality, Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles must be on their shopping lists," said Bennie Fowler, Ford group vice president, Global Quality. "It is gratifying to see our commitment to quality paying off in such recognition by J.D. Power and Associates."
 
Overall, Ford Motor Company received 10 vehicle honors, including three vehicles that scored highest rankings in their respective segments.
 
Highest ranked:
 
Lincoln Navigator, large premium multi-activity vehicle segment
Ford E-Series, van segment
Mazda MX5 Miata, compact sporty car segment
Second:
 
Ford Ranger, compact pickup segment
Mercury Sable, large car segment
Third:
 
Ford Fusion, mid-size car segment
Ford Escape, compact MAV segment
Mercury Grand Marquis, large car segment
Volvo S40, entry premium vehicle segment
Volvo C70, compact premium sporty segment
J.D. Power and Associates 2008 IQS is based on responses from 81,500 new 2008 model-year vehicle owners after having driven their vehicles for three months. It measures problems per 100 vehicles and was conducted between February and April. The study is the latest third party to demonstrate Ford's significant quality improvements.
 
Last week, Strategic Vision released its Total Quality Index showing Ford Motor Company brands with five segment winners: Ford Edge, Mustang, F-250/350, Mercury Sable and Volvo C30. And Ford topped or tied for six segment awards in AutoPacific's Vehicle Satisfaction Awards.
 
In April, RDA Group of Bloomfield, Mich., released the Global Quality Research System (GQRS) report showing Ford in a statistical tie with Toyota and Honda.
 
[http://media.ford.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=28020.] That report, an analysis of "things gone wrong" in new vehicles as measured by customers, is commissioned quarterly by Ford.

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Global Quality Research System (GQRS) report showing Ford in a statistical tie with Toyota and Honda.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the 2009 Ford Flex and Ford Fusion, Lincoln MKS and Mercury Milan as "Top Safety Picks."
No other automaker has as many "Top Safety Pick" awards as Ford Motor Company, which tops the industry with 16.
The body structure on the automaker's newest models features ultra high-strength boron steel in the B-pillar for added protection in side impacts.
 
DEARBORN, Sept. 25, 2008 - Ford Motor Company has earned more "Top Safety Pick" ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) than any other automaker with a total of 16 to date.
 
Ford surpassed its closest rival Honda this week when four of its 2009 models - Ford Flex, Ford Fusion, Lincoln MKS and Mercury Milan - achieved "Top Safety Pick" ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
 
The Flex, Ford's all-new head-turning crossover, the new Lincoln MKS full-size flagship sedan and the Fusion and Milan midsize sedans build on the company's safety leadership. Ford also has more 5-star government crash test ratings than any other automaker.
 
"Leading the industry in 'Top Safety Picks' is great news, because IIHS tests are some of the most demanding conducted outside of our own laboratories, and customers are increasingly relying on them when choosing a new vehicle," said Susan Cischke, Ford's group vice president of Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering.
 
To earn IIHS's "Top Safety Pick," vehicles must earn the top "good" ratings in the institute's high-speed front and side crash tests, and a rear crash test simulation that evaluates seat and head restraints. An added requirement since 2007 is that vehicles also must offer electronic stability control.
 
Flex, MKS, Fusion and Milan excelled in each of the institute's crash tests, and AdvanceTrac® electronic stability control is available for each vehicle. The safety system uses sensors to detect and measure yaw, or side-to-side skidding conditions, by monitoring the vehicle's speed, throttle position and steering wheel angle. When AdvanceTrac® senses wheel slip, engine torque is reduced and braking is applied where needed to help the driver keep the car tracking on its intended path. IIHS has stated that "AdvanceTrac significantly reduces crash risk by helping drivers maintain control of their vehicles during emergency maneuvers."
 
IIHS said "Top Safety Pick" vehicles are "at the head of the class for safety," and recognizing them as such "helps consumers distinguish the best overall choices without having to sort through multiple test results."
 
Structural Strength Is a Safety Fundamental
 
Flex, MKS, Fusion and Milan get some of their core strength from the use of lightweight aluminum-coated boron steel - one of the strongest weld-able materials - in the body structure. The use of high-strength steel in the B-pillars is only part of their robust safety profile. Ford engineers also located the side door intrusion beams to help manage and absorb energy during side impact crashes.
 
"Flex and MKS are built on a platform that has a tremendous safety heritage - one that it shares with the 2009 Ford Taurus, rated America's safest full-size car," said Steve Kozak, Ford's chief engineer for safety systems. "And Fusion and Milan prove that a high level of safety can come in a midsize package."
 
In addition to electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes, standard safety features on Flex, MKS, Fusion and Milan include:
 
Six Standard Air Bags and Ford's Personal Safety System®: Safety features include six air bags (dual-stage driver and front-passenger air bags, thorax side air bags for front-seat occupants and side-impact air curtains), safety belt pretensioners, seat weight-sensing system for the front passenger seat and crash-severity sensing.
Ford's BeltMinder®, a safety belt reminder technology for the driver and front passenger that takes over after the initial safety belt reminder stops chiming.
LATCH: The Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren system provides convenient mounting points for compatible child seats.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System: This system warns a driver if one or more tires are underinflated. An active pressure sensor with a radio transmitter is mounted inside each tire. A receiver in the vehicle monitors each transmitter, and if tire pressure is not within specific limits, it will activate a visual warning light.
Other key safety features on select models include:
 
Adaptive Collapsible Steering Column - In an impact, the column will collapse, dependent on the weight and belted status of the driver.
Safety Canopy® - Ford's exclusive side impact protection system features side curtain air bags that help protect front and rear outboard passengers in both rollovers and side impact crashes.
"Safety is a top purchase consideration, second only to fuel efficiency, so the top safety ratings and competitive fuel economy of Flex, MKS, Fusion and Milan are a winning combination," said Michael Crowley, North America car and crossover marketing manager, Ford Motor Company. Even More Technology Works in Customers' Favor
 
MKS also can help drivers avoid problems on the road.
 
The new SIRIUS® Travel Link(tm) feature, praised for helping motorists find the cheapest gas, also can help route them around congested, potentially dangerous conditions using the vehicle's navigation system with real-time traffic information, available in select markets.
 
SYNC®, Ford's hands-free connectivity system for Bluetooth-enabled phones and digital music players, helps drivers keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel to reduce distractions.