DC SHOES: KEN BLOCK'S GYMKHANA FOUR; THE HOLLYWOOD MEGAMERCIAL

DC and Ken Block present Gymkhana FOUR: The Hollywood Megamercial.

GYM4 surpasses the high-production style of Gymkhana TWO with even more spectacular effects shot in the backlots of Universal Studios, California.

Filmed over the course of five days, director Ben Conrad

(Zombieland and 30 Seconds or Less) and his team at Logan deliver a Hollywood caliber production complete with pyrotechnics, massive stunts and a series of unbelievable tricks.

Featuring robotic sharks, deranged zombies, and a hilarious cameo by the Epic Meal Time guys, Ken Block and his Hybrid FunctionHoon Vehicle (H.F.H.V.) bring the magic of Hollywood and gymkhana together.

LG Electronics Selects New Ford Focus for ‘LG Brand Ambassador’ Program

The 2012 Ford Focus, on sale since April, was selected by LG Electronics for its “LG Brand Ambassador” team of in-store merchandising experts based on the car's fuel efficiency and innovative attributes.

Login to download images.•LG Electronics USA has selected the 2012 Ford Focus as the vehicle of choice for its “LG Brand Ambassador” team of in-store merchandising experts

•The Ford Focus was selected for its fuel-efficient and innovative attributes that resonate with LG’s own brand attributes of stylish design and smart technology

•Fleet of 200 Ford Focus hatchbacks will be creatively wrapped in LG’s famous logo and “Life’s Good” slogan

DEARBORN, Mich., Aug. 24, 2011 – LG Electronics USA has selected the 2012 Ford Focus as the vehicle of choice for its “LG Brand Ambassador” team of in-store merchandising experts. In all, a fleet of 200 Ford Focus hatchbacks will take to the roads creatively wrapped in LG’s famous logo and “Life’s Good” slogan.

The Ford Focus was selected for its fuel-efficient and innovative attributes according to James Fishler, senior vice president, Go-to-Market Operations, LG Electronics USA.

“We selected the Focus based on its striking design, fuel economy and functional flexibility,” Fishler said. “Its SYNC® hands-free technology also enables us to communicate with our team in a safe way. In all, the Ford Focus attributes resonate with our brand attributes of stylish design and smart technology, making it an easy choice.”

LG Brand Ambassadors are dedicated teams that work with consumer electronics and appliance retailers, assisting with consumer education programs, sales associate training and merchandizing. Putting LG Brand Ambassadors on the road in the Ford Focus is a new initiative by LG to help establish a consistent image as they traverse the country delivering LG’s brand message to retailers and consumers.

“Focus has been a game changer for the segment,” said Paul Russell, Focus brand manager. “Traditionally, small cars meant econoboxes. Ford Focus, with its sporty design and content-rich options, gives customers more choice since they no longer have to sacrifice creature comforts for fuel economy.”

Since its introduction in March as an all-new model, the 2012 Focus has been winning over new buyers, especially because of its ability to achieve up to 40 mpg highway and high content options not traditionally found in small cars.

Commercial customers, like LG, are attracted to the new Focus for its high safety rating and high residual value. Focus has a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and features MyKey®, which allows for such programming as limiting top speed or disabling the radio if occupants do not have their safety belts latched.

A further competitive advantage for the new Ford Focus is that it offers both sedan and hatchback bodystyles. The sporty five-door hatchback offers versatility that is catching on with buyers both commercial and retail as it gains an additional 10 cubic feet of cargo space to make loading and unloading easier.

The all-new Ford Focus also offers options such as voice-activated SYNC, active park assist to help with parallel parking, rear view camera and the Easy Fuel capless fuel filler system. So far, nearly 75 percent of all Focus models sold have been equipped with SYNC.


About LG Electronics USA

LG Electronics USA, Inc., based in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., is the North American subsidiary of LG Electronics, Inc., a $48 billion global force and technology leader in consumer electronics, home appliances and mobile communications. In the United States, LG Electronics sells a range of stylish and innovative home entertainment products, mobile phones, home appliances, commercial displays, air conditioning systems and solar energy solutions, all under LG's "Life's Good" marketing theme. For more information, please visit http://www.lg.com/.

U.S. News & World Report: Ford Cars Make Family Life Easier

Three Ford vehicles are among U.S. News' 2011 Best Cars for Families. Safety, reliability, comfort and affordability are paramount when shopping for cars, and the Best Cars for Families award winners are the vehicles that do best in their class on those attributes. Ford winners include the 2011 Ford Fusion as the midsize car, the 2011 Ford Taurus in the large car group and the 2011 Ford Explorer as the best off-road SUV. Click here for the full release.

Ford Bolsters EcoBoost Commitment for 2012 with Fuel-Efficient Edge, Explorer Utilities, Broadens Focus Lineup

•2012 Ford Explorer with EcoBoost® delivers full-size three-row SUV segment-leading fuel economy with an EPA-rated 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway


•Edge with EcoBoost for 2012 raises fuel-efficiency bar for Ford’s popular crossover utility, with EPA ratings of 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway

•Expanded EcoBoost product offerings reflect Ford’s commitment to this fuel-saving global technology

•Focus – all-new for 2012 – offers small car buyers an expanded range of model series and premium features unexpected in a small car

Fact Sheet: Ford's Fuel Champions

DEARBORN, Mich., Aug. 24, 2011 – Ford Motor Company is expanding its range of vehicles with the award-winning EcoBoost® engine, offering the fuel-efficient powertrain in the 2012 Ford Edge and Explorer that are arriving in dealerships now.

Edge and Explorer are the first vehicles in North America to be offered with Ford’s new 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine. The four-cylinder EcoBoost marks the next chapter in the company’s strategy to downsize engines and use turbocharging and direct injection to deliver the power customers want from their vehicles with the fuel economy they demand.

The success of Ford’s 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine in Europe – its blend of fuel economy, lower emissions and usable performance and pulling power – makes it the ideal powertrain for Edge and Explorer.

Ford has committed to offering fuel-efficient, high-technology EcoBoost engines in 90 percent of its global vehicle portfolio by 2013. Combining turbocharging with direct injection of gasoline in a smaller-displacement engine, EcoBoost delivers the power customers desire with the fuel efficiency the challenges of today’s world demand.

A global Ford initiative, EcoBoost aims to provide affordable performance and efficiency for millions of drivers. Moving forward, EcoBoost engines will continue to deliver more power and fuel economy from smaller-displacement engines.

“An expanded array of customer choice marks the Ford showroom for 2012,” said Ford President, The Americas, Mark Fields. “An EcoBoost powertrain puts Edge and Explorer fuel efficiency over the top, while the next-generation Ford Focus brings an extended portfolio of models with premium technology, comfort nd convenience offerings.”

EcoBoost ups utility vehicle fuel economy
The full-size three-row Ford Explorer SUV and popular Edge two-row crossover are now available with an advanced 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine combining smaller displacement with a turbocharger and gasoline direct injection to provide the power of a normally aspirated V6 with the uncompromised fuel economy of a four-cylinder engine.

Ideal for sport and crossover utility shoppers placing the highest priority on fuel economy, EcoBoost takes Explorer and Edge gas mileage to unprecedented levels.

In both applications, the 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder delivers 240 horsepower and 270 lb.-ft. of torque, comparable to the normally aspirated V6 output of competitive utility vehicles.

Building on the foundation of the Explorer V6’s full-size, three-row SUV segment-leading fuel economy, the available EcoBoost powertrain raises the bar, delivering an EPA-rated 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. This represents a 30 percent highway fuel efficiency increase over the most economical previous-generation 2010 Explorer model, to top its category.

Explorer EcoBoost fuel economy is optimized with aggressive deceleration fuel shutoff (ADSFO), twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT), an efficient six-speed gear span in its 6F35 automatic transmission and a smooth aerodynamic body.

The two-row Edge with EcoBoost delivers an EPA-rated 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. The hot-selling Edge – which set a July sales record of almost 10,000 units – maximizes fuel economy by combining the advanced EcoBoost powertrain with ADSFO and Ti-VCT and adding active grille shutters to improve aerodynamics. Active transmission warmup for the 6F35 gearbox reduces internal friction immediately following engine startup.

EcoBoost is available for 2012 in front-wheel-drive Edge and Explorer models.

Focus adds premium Titanium model
The next-generation Focus is all-new for 2012 and has expanded its brand footprint with a larger series range and comfort, convenience and technology offerings that are unprecedented. The new range-topping Titanium offers small car buyers premium-level appointments and technologies.

Focus is powered by an equally new 2.0-liter gasoline direct-injection four-cylinder engine delivering up to 40 mpg on the highway, with a class-leading 160 horsepower and 146 lb.-ft. of torque.

Bringing a fuel efficiency improvement of 10 percent and 20 percent more horsepower than the previous-model Focus engine, this advanced unit uses Ti-VCT to increase responsiveness, boost fuel economy and reduce emissions.

With striking good looks and sleek profile, Focus is offered as a practical four-door or sporty five-door hatchback. Its smooth aerodynamic shape leads to a coefficient of drag as low as 0.295, besting both Chevrolet Cruze and Volkswagen Jetta.

Focus was designed and developed to meet stringent global safety standards. Starting with a body shell 30 percent stiffer than the 2011 model, Focus features next-generation airbags to tailor deployment to individual occupants and segment-exclusive Safety Canopy® curtain airbags.

For 2012, the traditional three series levels for Focus – S, SE and SEL/SES – are supplemented by an additional three variants.

An SE sport package is now offered, adding features an enthusiast will appreciate such as 16-inch painted aluminum wheels, rear disc brakes, sport-tuned suspension, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, cloth sport seats, black-out accent trim and SelectShift functionality when equipped with the six-speed PowerShift automatic transmission.

An available Super Fuel Economy package for Focus SE adds low-rolling-resistance tires, aerodynamically optimized wheel covers and rear disc brakes.

Taking Focus into premium small car territory, the all-new Titanium series offers comfort, convenience and technology features that are unexpected for this segment.

From dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, sporty and stylish interior trend packages featuring two-tone full leather seats, and segment-exclusive active park assist, Focus Titanium will make customers downsizing from luxury cars and SUVs feel right at home.

Ford - Toyota Collaboration Q&A With Chief of Product Development Derric...

Derrick Kuzak - group vice president, Global Product Development for Ford Motor Company provides answers to questions regarding today's announcement where Ford and Toyota will work as equal partners to develop hybrid SUVs and trucks. For more information please see our press release:

http://media.ford.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=35100

Ken Block's first tarmac test of the Ford Fiesta RS WRC with GoPro helme...

Ken Block shakes down the Ford Fiesta RS WRC for the first time in tarmac trim during practice for Rally Germany.

Ford Driving Skills for Life

Learn about Ford Driving Skills for Life program which offers training to educate teens in safe driving practices.

Heavy Hauling and High-Speed Racing: Hajek Motorsports Breaks Two Land Speed Records with Ford F-250 Super Duty

Brent Hajek and is nearly-stock F-250 Super Duty set the new B Production Diesel Truck land speed record with a speed of 167.300 mph.

•Hajek Motorsports has broken two land speed records for diesel and biodiesel trucks with a Ford F-250 Super Duty. Using the new 6.7-liter Power Stroke® V8 turbo-diesel, the truck hit a top speed of 171.123 mph setting the new B Production Diesel Truck land speed record. Running on B20 biodiesel the truck smashed the existing 130.614 mph unlimited biodiesel land speed record by running 182 mph
•The 2011 Ford F-250 is mostly stock, with changes to the high-pressure fuel pump, fuel injectors and turbochargers for more fuel flow. The compression ratio was also modified
•The production 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 turbocharged diesel produces best-in-class 400 horsepower and 800 lb.-ft. of torque with best-in-class fuel economy, further strengthening Super Duty’s best-in-class towing and payload capabilities

WENDOVER, Utah, Aug. 19, 2011 – Ford F-Series is known for its unparalleled capability and power, but now it’s found a place in the history books: Hajek Motorsports has broken two land speed records using both a diesel and biodiesel-powered 2011 Ford F-250 Super Duty at the famed Bonneville Salt Flats. Using a mostly stock truck with the new 6.7-liter Power Stroke® V8, the team achieved a speed of 171.123 mph on regular diesel and 182 mph on B20 biodiesel.

The Ford truck broke the B Production Diesel Truck record of 166.850 mph by a Duramax diesel GMC. This class is normally comprised of race vehicles with extensive aftermarket modifications. The F-250 that Hajek Motorsports ran is something of a rarity as it used extensive production parts to perform at high speeds.

Underscoring that the 2011 Super Duty is the cleanest Power Stroke ever, a land speed record was also set using soy-based biodiesel fuel. The truck broke the biodiesel land speed record of 130.614 mph.

Every 6.7-liter Power Stroke turbo-diesel can operate on a mixture of diesel up to 20 percent biofuel. This capability is significant for the Hajek Motorsports team given its history and support for sustainable farm-based fuels and desire to prove that speed and performance are not compromised by using fuels like E85 and B20 biodiesel.

“Racing is part of Ford Motor Company’s DNA so it’s only natural for us to build a race vehicle that demonstrates Ford’s leadership in the diesel and biodiesel truck market,” said Brent Hajek, Hajek Motorsports owner. “The F-250 is an excellent truck with amazing capabilities. I’m amazed at how, with very few changes from stock, we were able to accomplish this.”

Hajek, a soybean and corn farmer from Oklahoma, knows a thing or two about Ford F-250s and biodiesel fuel. He owns six for use on his farm, with his 1997 Ford F-250 having accumulated more than 400,000 miles.

“Super Duty has always been the leader in the heavy-duty truck segment,” said Brian Rathsburg, Ford Super Duty marketing manager. “Breaking these records reinforces our leadership position, allows us to raise awareness around the truck’s biodiesel capabilities, and gives us an opportunity to reach out to enthusiasts in a fun and engaging way.”

Ford engineers teamed up with Hajek Motorsports to design and install the modifications to the production-level truck. Changes were made only to the top-end components of the engine including the high-pressure fuel pump, fuel injectors and turbochargers for more fuel flow. The compression ratio was modified as well.

“The engineering that went into the base engine provided us with a rock-solid foundation to start from,” said Paul Niessen, powertrain engineer. “And it worked out great since we increased the output of the engine by more than 50 percent over production with just a few changes.”

Work on a chassis dynamometer before the attempt proved the engine was able to adapt to biodiesel fuel and deliver on both horsepower and fuel economy. It also verified the performance of the production transmission and drivetrain.

Components were added for safety purposes, including a full roll cage and five-point harness.

Delivering more
The 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 turbocharged diesel produces best-in-class 400 horsepower and 800 lb.-ft. of torque with best-in-class fuel economy, further strengthening Super Duty’s best-in-class towing and payload capabilities. The Ford-engineered diesel engine uses inboard exhaust architecture, an automotive-industry first for a modern production diesel engine.

Key features of the new 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 turbocharged diesel engine:

•Compacted graphite iron engine block
•Aluminum cylinder heads
•Single-sequential turbocharger with double-sided compressor wheel mounted on a single shaft uniquely center-mounted on the engine block
•Unique inboard exhaust and outboard intake architecture
•High-pressure fuel system – new Bosch 29,000-psi common-rail fuel-injection system
•Standard biodiesel compatibility up to B20
E85 performance
In 2009 Hajek Motorsports propelled an E85-powered Mustang to a land speed record at Bonneville with a record-breaking run of 255.764 mph and an exit speed of 258.410 mph with Danny Thompson, son of motorsport icon Mickey Thompson, behind the wheel.

In 2010 Hajek Motorsports, Ford Racing, Wood Brothers, Bud Moore and NASCAR driver Bill Elliott teamed up to establish a closed-course speed record on E85 with the reconfigured Bonneville land speed Mustang at Talladega Super Speedway. On the second attempt Elliott ended the day with a crash, but not before establishing an E85 record of more than 170 mph

Edsel Bryant Ford’s 1934 Model 40 Special Speedster Debuts at Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance

Discoveries during restoration confirm originality of design and engineering

PEBBLE BEACH, Calif., Aug. 19, 2011 – It has grace, style and a 77-year history shrouded in mystery that has intrigued automotive collectors, enthusiasts and writers worldwide. Edsel Ford’s restored 1934 Model 40 Special Speedster was unveiled today by Lincoln and the Edsel & Eleanor Ford House at The Lodge, Pebble Beach in Monterey County, Calif. It will appear again on Sunday August 21, at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. Restored to its timeless elegance, Edsel’s personal roadster shared its story of a decades-long journey.

The Speedster’s extensive restoration by award-winning RM Auto Restoration in Ontario, Canada, revealed the stunning, custom made “one off” as it originally looked in 1940 after its final redesign by Edsel and designer E. T. Gregorie. The revelations uncovered during a year-long restoration have resolved many long-held assumptions about the illustrious vehicle’s journey over time. But more than a story of restoration, the vehicle provides a glimpse into the early years of Edsel Ford’s design and automotive styling as President of Ford Motor Company and its luxury Lincoln line.

The Speedster celebrates Edsel's eye for design that began when as a small boy he would take pen to paper to sketch cars as well as everyday objects. "My grandfather was an early believer that everyday objects - including automobiles - could be seen as works of art,” said Edsel Ford II, who unveiled the Speedster. “While he wasn't a designer in the traditional sense, his eye for styling and influence was apparent as he initiated and built the design department at Ford Motor Company.”

After Edsel’s death in 1943, the Speedster crisscrossed the U.S. making limited appearances, then it disappeared – some feared it had been destroyed. It was last seen when it was photographed in Hollywood in the 1950s after which it was purchased by a U.S. Navy sailor in Florida for $603 in 1958. It didn't appear again until Bill Warner displayed it at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance in 1999. In
2008 it was sold to a Texas car collector for $1.76 million, then, following the collector’s untimely death in 2010, the Speedster returned to Edsel's home, now operated as an historic site called the Edsel & Eleanor Ford House. Over the years, alterations were made to its grille, engine, paint and interior - it is these alterations that have been reversed by RM Auto Restoration to take the famous car back to the 1940 design and engine.

The Model 40 Special Speedster
Its rich history began in 1932 after Edsel returned from a trip to Europe. He asked Ford’s chief designer, E.T. “Bob” Gregorie to design and supervise the construction of a personal sports car similar to those he’d see “on the continent.”

The first design reportedly disappointed Edsel because it wasn’t lower and racier. But Gregorie, who was adept at turning Edsel’s visions into tangible designs, went to work on a more dramatic, streamlined design. This “continental” roadster may have started with a stock 1934 Ford (aka Model 40) frame, but its subsequent chassis was radically altered. The Model 40 Special Speedster was unlike anything Ford Motor Company had built up to that time.

At 113 inches, the Speedster’s wheelbase is approximately the same as the standard 112-inch wheelbase of a 1934 Ford roadster. Yet, it appears longer and lower. This illusion was achieved by modifying and lowering the car’s chassis, positioning the cockpit toward the rear of the car and extending the tail section.
Gregorie, Robbie Robinson, supervisor of the Lincoln plant, and Ford Aircraft Division personnel, fabricated a topless, taper-tailed aluminum body with cut-down door openings and mounted it over a custom welded tubular aluminum structural framework.

It was believed that the Speedster’s fenders were modified Trimotor Aircraft “wheel pants,” but Ford’s aircraft fabricators undoubtedly fashioned them from scratch. The custom-designed front cycle wings were mounted so they turned with the car’s Kelsey-Hayes wire wheels. The all-aluminum bodywork followed the best aircraft practice – light and very strong.

The Speedster was painted Pearl Essence Gunmetal Dark; the interior upholstered in complementary gray leather. The flat, engine-tuned instrument panel incorporated period Lincoln instruments. The 2,100-pound Speedster was powered by a stock 75-bhp, Ford Model 40 flathead, with straight exhausts that were enclosed by the bodywork with only the tips protruding.

The Speedster had low-mounted faired-in headlights, an enclosed radiator with a concealed cap, a starter button on the instrument panel, minimal chrome trim and no running boards – features that didn’t appear on production Fords for years.

The Speedster’s shapely hood had louvered side panels that subtly matched the angle of the radiator grille and the windscreen. A pair of narrow vee-ed grilles with a single row of louvers (vents) running the length of each side of the hood limited the flow of cooling air. The Speedster had a tendency to overheat.

Two period photographs of the car show two different louver treatments. One shows a single row of side louvers; the other features two rows of louvers, one atop the other. It’s reasonable to suspect that because of overheating issues, the hood was modified between the times these photos were taken.

Reportedly, a winter freeze in 1939-40 cracked the engine block; a new 239-cid, 100-bhp 09A Mercury V-8 was installed. This would have been the most powerful version of the Ford flathead V-8 available at the time.

By 1939, Gregorie had designed wider twin grilles for the Lincoln-Zephyr, so it followed that he would take the same approach for the Speedster. He redesigned the Speedster’s front end by shortening the upper grilles and fabricating a wide, horizontal grille for improved cooling. The new design, which required extensive modifications to the hood, was likely completed in 1940. The instrument panel may have been updated at the same time with a 160-mph racing type speedometer and matching Stewart-Warner accessory instruments.

“The Model 40 Special Speedster was only enjoyed by Edsel for a few short years before his death in 1943, but its journey was just beginning,” said Ford House President Kathleen Mullins. “Ford House is proud to give life to Edsel’s original vision for a unique, continental roadster.”

The Model 40 Special Speedster has moved through almost eight decades of owners and modifications and has returned to its early design elegance. After Pebble Beach, its journey will continue, ultimately returning home . . . to Ford House.

To follow the Speedster’s travels, and view the restoration process, visit www.fordhouse.org.



The Edsel & Eleanor Ford House in Grosse Pointe Shores, Mich., is a place of inspiration and discovery where visitors explore connections to art, design, history and the environment while celebrating Ford Family traditions. The 1934 Model 40 Special Speedster is part of its permanent collection. For more information, visit www.fordhouse.org

Marcos Ambrose - Interviewed on Inside NASCAR

Marcos Ambrose interviewed on Inside NASCAR after his first NASCAR Sprint Cup Series win at Watkins Glen

Preview Rally Germany 2011 -- Ford WRC

Follow the team at Facebook/FordWRC!

It's the first asphalt rally of the year, the 2011 FIA WRC Rally Deutschland.

After extensive testing, Ford Abu Dhabi drivers Mikko Hirvonen and Jari-Matti Latvala will be hoping for good times on the stages around the Moselle vineyards and up on the tank testing grounds at Baumholder.
Becs Williams looks ahead....

Consumers in Driver’s Seat on Ford F-150 EcoBoost Challenge; Free Fuel, National Bragging Rights Up for Grabs

•The Ford F-150 EcoBoost Challenge kicks off today on Facebook, with drivers in eight cities putting EcoBoost®-equipped Ford F-150s to the test – in fuel efficiency challenge and community projects


•Winning driver receives a year’s supply of free Shell Nitrogen Enriched Gasoline; two Shell-branded stations in the winning driver’s city will offer residents free regular-grade gasoline for two hours and 22 minutes on Sept. 2, in a nod to the 22 mpg the Ford F-150 EcoBoost achieves on the highway

•The 2011 Ford F-150 equipped with the all-new 3.5-liter EcoBoost truck engine delivers an unbeatable combination of power, capability and efficiency, making it perfect for this challenge. It is EPA-certified at 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway, complementing the best-in-class 420 lb.-ft. of torque the engine produces. It also offers best-in-class conventional towing of 11,300 pounds and best-in-class payload of 3,060 pounds

Download Fact Sheet

F-150 EcoBoost Challenge

DEARBORN, Mich., Aug. 17, 2011 – The 2011 Ford F-150 EcoBoost® has survived a series of torture tests – racing in the Baja 1000 and towing a maximum 11,300 pounds at high speeds around a NASCAR track for 24 hours straight – and this month, eight truck fans will put the truck to the test in their own communities.

Up for grabs: bragging rights tied to a week-long fuel-efficiency driving challenge, the satisfaction that comes from inspiring community members to give back and, ultimately, two free gasoline giveaway events for the winner’s city.

The challenge goes live today on the EcoBoost Challenge tab on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ford.

“This challenge is a great way to highlight the capacities of the F-150 EcoBoost – a truck specially engineered to deliver the capability people need and the fuel efficiency they really want,” said Raj Sarkar, F-150 marketing manager. “Plus, this challenge speaks to the spirit of our F-150 owners, who work hard for their families as well as their communities.”

Each driver will represent a city, driving an F-150 EcoBoost truck for one week. The first five days of the challenge involve a real-world fuel efficiency competition, with the average miles per gallon monitored via Ford’s Crew Chief™ system installed in each truck.

Challenge cities are Louisville, Ky.; Pittsburgh; Houston; San Diego; Orlando, Fla.; Denver; Kansas City, Mo.; and Raleigh-Durham, N.C. The EcoBoost Challenge drivers come from a variety of backgrounds, ranging from a middle school biology teacher to a Twitter user with more than 40,000 followers.

The community service piece of the contest teams drivers up with their local communities to create a goodwill project on Aug. 27 that includes public support. Drivers will create their own community projects, using the F-150 EcoBoost trucks to carry materials to their project sites.

The winning driver will be determined through a blended score measuring the highest average miles per gallon achieved throughout the week, the most votes on the Ford Facebook page and how many volunteers participated in the community improvement project.

The winning driver receives a year’s supply of free Shell Nitrogen Enriched Gasoline. Plus, Shell will provide free regular-grade gasoline (up to 15 gallons per vehicle) at two local stations in the winning driver’s hometown on Sept. 2 for two hours and 22 minutes – in honor of the 22 mpg the F-150 EcoBoost delivers on the highway.

“We are proud to be a part of the Ford F-150 EcoBoost Challenge because we understand that consumers are looking to stretch their fuel purchases without sacrificing the quality of their ride,” said Dan Little, North America fuels marketing manager for Shell Oil Products U.S. “That’s why all three grades of Shell Nitrogen Enriched Gasoline help clean and protect critical engine parts, so the engine can perform at its best.”

Powerful choice

The Ford F-150 is breaking new ground with its available EcoBoost engine, delivering a combination of fuel efficiency, performance and towing that beats all other trucks. The Ford F-150’s official 2011 EPA ratings certify that 4x2 models equipped with the 365-horsepower 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo engine and six-speed automatic transmission achieve 22 mpg on the highway and 16 mpg in the city.

“This truck uses advanced technology to deliver both power and efficiency,” said Sarkar. “The EcoBoost trucks are our most capable F-150s and the fact they also offer exceptional fuel efficiency means our customers don’t have to compromise.”

The 3.5-liter EcoBoost truck engine produces 365 horsepower and a class-leading 420 lb.-ft. of torque, helping enable best-in-class maximum towing of 11,300 pounds and maximum payload of 3,060 pounds – all with unsurpassed fuel efficiency.

EcoBoost is fundamental to Ford’s strategy to provide technologically advanced, high-output, smaller-displacement powertrains that deliver uncompromised performance and fuel efficiency. Ford EcoBoost engines deliver fuel efficiency gains of up to 20 percent and reduction of CO2 emissions of up to 15 percent, compared with larger, less-efficient engines.

By 2013, Ford plans to offer EcoBoost engines in up to 90 percent of its North American nameplates, supporting global sales of 1.5 million EcoBoost-powered vehicles per year

Here Comes the Sun: Ford and SunPower Team up to Let Focus Electric Customers ‘Drive Green for Life’

Ford and SunPower team up to provide a high-efficiency rooftop solar system that will provide Focus Electric owners enough renewable energy production to offset the energy used for charging.

•Ford and SunPower team up to provide a high-efficiency rooftop solar system that will provide Focus Electric owners enough renewable energy production to offset the energy used for charging.

•The 2.5 kilowatt SunPower system will produce an estimated 3,000 kilowatt hours of electricity annually. SunPower systems are backed by a 25-year warranty.

•Ford’s aggressive electrification strategy includes the launch of five electrified vehicles in North America by 2012 and Europe by 2013. The new Focus Electric is a zero-emissions, gasoline-free version of Ford’s popular global Focus model.

Dearborn, Mich., Aug. 10, 2011 – Ford and SunPower Corp. (NASDAQ: SPWRA, SPWRB) have teamed up to offer customers a rooftop solar system that will allow Focus Electric owners to “Drive Green for Life” by providing customers with enough clean, renewable energy to offset the electricity used to charge the vehicle.

“Under the ‘Drive Green for Life’ program, Focus Electric owners can reduce their total cost of ownership by generating enough energy from their high efficiency SunPower rooftop solar system to offset the electricity required to charge the vehicle at night,” said Mike Tinskey, Ford director of Global Vehicle Electrification and Infrastructure. “It’s an eco-friendly solution that perfectly complements our plug-in products and other green initiatives.”

“SunPower’s innovative partnership with Ford is a win-win for customers, providing a comprehensive sustainability program,” said Tom Werner, SunPower president and CEO. “By taking advantage of this program, Focus Electric customers can receive the added benefit of installing a SunPower solar system, the highest-efficiency, most reliable on the market today, generating the electricity needed to charge their vehicles.”

The 2.5 kilowatt rooftop solar system is comprised of the SunPower® E18 Series solar panels that produce an average of 3,000 kilowatt hours of electricity annually. These high-efficiency solar panels generate approximately 50 percent more electricity than conventional panels and utilize a smaller footprint on the roof. The system was sized to accommodate a customer who drives about 1,000 miles per month.

The complete SunPower solar system is offered at a base price of less than $10,000*, after federal tax credits. Local and state rebates, along with other incentives, may drive the system cost down even more, depending on a customer’s location. Included in the purchase is a residential monitoring system, which includes the ability to track the performance of their solar system on the web or through an iPhone application. Affordable financing options for the solar system are available through SunPower. This price point does not include local sales tax.

Interested Focus Electric customers will be contacted by a participating SunPower dealer who will visit their home to begin the installation process. SunPower leads the industry with more than 400 dealers in the U.S., and can support the initial Focus Electric roll out in all 19 markets.

In addition to the Focus Electric, the SunPower rooftop solar system will be compatible with the C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid electric vehicle Ford is rolling out in 2012.

Two Complementary Charging Solutions for Focus Electric Owners

By partnering with SunPower, Ford now offers Focus Electric owners two complementary charging solutions to make the overall experience of owning an electric vehicle easier. In January, Ford announced an agreement with consumer electronics leader Best Buy to offer a 240-volt home charging station for the Focus Electric and future electric vehicle owners.

“The goal of working with both SunPower and Best Buy was to offer Focus Electric owners solutions to charging needs that help lower the vehicle’s overall cost of ownership,” said Tinskey.

The Power of Choice

Electrification is an important piece of Ford’s overall product sustainability strategy, which includes the launch of five electrified vehicles in North America by 2012 and in Europe by 2013. Ford launched the Transit Connect Electric small commercial van in 2010 and will launch the all-new Focus Electric later this year. In 2012, these models will be joined in North America by the new C-MAX Hybrid, a second next-generation lithium-ion battery hybrid and C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid. This diverse range of electrified vehicles allows Ford to meet a variety of consumer driving needs.

*This offer assumes normal installation conditions, not including modifications to a roof, electrical service panel or excessive wire requirements.



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 166,000 employees and about 70 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com.

About SunPower

SunPower Corp. (NASDAQ: SPWRA, SPWRB) designs, manufactures and delivers the highest efficiency, highest reliability solar panels and systems available today. Residential, business, government and utility customers rely on the company’s quarter century of experience and guaranteed performance to provide maximum return on investment throughout the life of the solar system. Headquartered in San Jose, Calif., SunPower has offices in North America, Europe, Australia and Asia. For more information, visit http://www.sunpowercorp.com/

Mustang makes Sexy Car Buyer's Guide

Road & Travel Magazine has named the 2011 Ford Mustang Convertible – "pure muscle with peak performance" – to its 15th Annual Sexy Car Buyer's Guide, and can even envision George Clooney mesmerizing Malibu in the most iconic muscle car of all. Unlike competitors, say Road & Travel editors, the "fresh and defiant as ever" Mustang has never been out of the spotlight, and the car "balances its impressive power with refined handling, road-hugging finesse and the coolest profile around."

Two new V6 engines dominate F-150 sales

With its powerful and fuel-efficient 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6, the 365-horsepower Ford F-150 EcoBoost® is outselling all other competitive six-cylinder trucks combined. The new EcoBoost V6 is one of four new fuel-efficient engines Ford introduced in the F-150 for 2011. Another of those new engines – a 3.7-liter, 302-horsepower V6 – also outsells all other competitive V6 engines in full-sized trucks from Chevrolet, GMC, Dodge and Toyota. According to sales data from J.D. Power and Associates, both new Ford truck engines accounted for 79.5 percent market share of V6 full-sized trucks sold in July

Ford Electrifies DTE Energy Field Service with Transit Connect Electric Vans

•Detroit Edison President and Chief Operating Officer, Steven Kurmas, presented today two Ford Transit Connect Electrics at DTE Energy headquarters in downtown Detroit
•Four Transit Connect Electrics will be used by Detroit Edison in its field fleet as part of the company's efforts to expand its use of alternative-fuel vehicles
•All-electric, zero-emission Transit Connect Electric features Azure Dynamics’ Force Drive powertrain with a targeted range of up to 80 miles per full charge; it will be rechargeable using either 240-volt or standard 120-volt outlets
•Suburban Ford of Sterling Heights, Mich., one of the first Transit Connect Electric dealerships, supplied the vehicles and is the first Ford dealership to offer a full line of gas, hybrid and electric vehicles

DEARBORN, Mich., Aug. 12, 2011 – Detroit Edison President and Chief Operating Officer, Steven Kurmas, today presented two out of four recently-purchased Ford Transit Connect Electric vehicles at DTE Energy headquarters in downtown Detroit.

With the addition of these four Transit Connect Electrics, DTE Energy continues its effort to expand the company's use of alternative-fuel vehicles. The Transit Connect Electrics will be used by Detroit Edison field crews performing repair and maintenance and operations to electrical lines and other equipment on the electric distribution system.

“The addition of these all-electric Transit Connects to our fleet will help Detroit Edison advance the use of electric vehicles in a couple of ways,” said Kurmas. “First, we will learn firsthand how these vehicles perform in day-to-day field operations and how we can make the best use of their unique characteristics. Second, they will help us learn more about how the use of electric vehicles by consumers and businesses will impact the electrical system and what utilities need to do to support adoption of these vehicles.”

The Ford Transit Connect Electric, a pure electric-powered version of the award-winning Transit Connect small van, is fitted with a Force Drive battery electric powertrain made by Azure Dynamics featuring Johnson Controls-Saft’s advanced lithium-ion battery technology. The all-electric, zero-emission vehicle has a target range of up to 50 to 80 miles per full charge, and will be rechargeable using either 240-volt or standard 120-volt outlets.

The vehicles were purchased from Suburban Ford of Sterling Heights, Mich., one of the first Transit Connect Electric-selling dealerships, and the first Ford dealership to offer a full line of gas, hybrid and electric vehicles.

Transit Connect Electric is the first product in Ford’s accelerated electrified vehicle plan, and will be followed by the Focus Electric, the C-MAX Hybrid and C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid electric vehicles in 2012 and another next-generation hybrid vehicle later in 2012.

The power of choice
Electrification is an important piece of Ford’s overall product sustainability strategy, which includes the launch of five electrified vehicles in North America by 2012 and in Europe by 2013. Ford launched the Transit Connect Electric small commercial van in 2010 and will launch the all-new Focus Electric later this year. In 2012, these models will be joined in North America by the new C-MAX Hybrid, a second next-generation lithium-ion battery hybrid and C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid. This diverse range of electrified vehicles allows Ford to meet a variety of consumer driving needs.


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 166,000 employees and about 70 plants worldwide, the company's automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit www.ford.com.

About Detroit Edison
Detroit Edison is an investor-owned electric utility serving 2.1 million customers in Southeastern Michigan and a subsidiary of DTE Energy (NYSE:DTE), a Detroit-based diversified energy company involved in the development and management of energy-related businesses and services nationwide. Information about DTE Energy is available at www.dteenergy.com.

About Azure Dynamics
Azure Dynamics Corporation (TSX: AZD)(OTC: AZDDF) is a world leader in the development and production of hybrid electric and electric components and powertrain systems for commercial vehicles. Azure is strategically targeting the commercial delivery vehicle and shuttle bus markets and is currently working internationally with a variety of partners and customers. The Company is committed to providing customers and partners with innovative, cost-efficient, and environmentally-friendly energy management solutions. For more information on how Azure Dynamics products are Driving a World of Difference, please visit www.azuredynamics.com

2012 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 Offers the Ultimate in Performance, Style with New Features, Class-Leading Power

The 2012 Ford Harley-Davidson™ F-150 delivers on the custom cool design that the lineup has been known for, with new snakeskin leather interior accents, a new stylized bodyside graphic and a new wheel and premium paint color. Combine that with a standard 6.2-liter V8 engine and plenty of technology, and it delivers power, capability and style like no other.

•2012 Ford Harley-Davidson™ F-150 offers distinctive new design enhancements with snakeskin leather interior accents and unique bodyside graphic. Also new for 2012 are 22-inch machined-aluminum wheels with painted accents and unique center cap as well as a premium exterior color choice – White Platinum Tri-Coat
•Standard content includes the voice-activated Navigation System, a 4.2-inch productivity screen, power moonroof and Remote Start System
•The truck is powered by a 6.2-liter V8 gasoline engine, which uses big-bore architecture to deliver a best-in-class 411 horsepower and 434 lb.-ft. of torque and provides maximum trailer towing capability of 7,500 pounds

STURGIS, S.D., Aug. 9, 2011– The 2012 Ford Harley-Davidson™ F-150 delivers on the custom cool design the lineup is known for, with new snakeskin leather interior accents and a stylized bodyside graphic. Also new are the wheel design and a premium paint color. Combine that with a standard 6.2-liter V8 engine and plenty of technology, and it delivers power, capability and style like no other.

“This is a great pairing of two icons of the open road: Ford and Harley-Davidson. Both brands appeal to truck owners and motorcycle enthusiasts alike,” said Marc Lapine, Ford F-150 marketing manager. “For 2012 we worked with Harley-Davidson to continue to push the styling envelope while still delivering the durability and power that F-150 is known for and that our collective customers expect. It perfectly captures both brands.”

The successful collaboration between Ford and Harley-Davidson has produced 10 F-150 models, as well as six Super Duty F-250 and F-350 models, and in 2009 the first Harley-Davidson F-450 edition truck. Ford has sold more than 70,000 Ford Harley-Davidson F-Series trucks since the brands teamed up in 1999.

Design in the details
The exterior of the 2012 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 offers a bold front fascia and six-bar billet-style bright chrome grille, and it boasts “Harley-Davidson” bright chrome badging. The truck also has a lowered appearance with a standard, fully integrated deployable running board.

Also standard are new 22-inch machined-aluminum wheels with painted accents and Harley-Davidson bar and shield logo on center cap. The paint selection is classic Harley-Davidson – Tuxedo Black and White Platinum Tri-Coat; this is the first year white has been offered.

New graphics on the bodyside of the truck are executed in a unique snakeskin texture, while “Harley-Davidson” dimensional lettering is featured on the box side. The snakeskin is inspired by tank inserts on premium-level Harley-Davidson motorcycles and also comes into play on the interior.

“This is the first time we’ve captured the full spectrum of light to dark on the exterior,” said Mike Massara, F-150 program manager. “The graphic flows and accents the design curve of the truck, yet brings the texture of the snakeskin into the vehicle, which is something that’s very difficult to do.”

Interior trim panels are covered in high-gloss Tuxedo Black paint, while the console lid and upper steering wheel carry the snakeskin leather. The scuff plate features brushed aluminum with snakeskin texture. All interior chrome surfaces feature a satin finish. Premium snakeskin leather-trimmed seats come with accent color inserts and unique cloisonné badge.

The 2012 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 interior is customized to appeal to the truck buyer who appreciates the attention to detail for which both Ford and Harley-Davidson are renowned.

Examples are the seats and the console lid featuring handmade cloisonné badges that are produced by the same company that makes badges for Harley-Davidson motorcycles; the console has limited-edition serialization plates, which include laser-engraved VIN and build numbers.

Nearly every member of the Harley-Davidson F-150 team at Ford is a Harley-Davidson owner.

Superior convenience
The 2012 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 offers plenty of technology options to meet customer needs. Key to helping customers take advantage of all the capability offered by the Harley-Davidson F-150 is a standard 4.2-inch LCD (liquid crystal display) productivity screen.

This screen offers a range of menu options, giving the customer important information on everything from fuel economy to towing performance. The menu is navigated through a five-way button on the steering wheel; the screen is positioned between the tachometer and speedometer.

Additionally, the 2012 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 comes equipped with a standard voice-activated Navigation System that integrates several functions, including voice-recognition destination entry, climate control and SiriusXM Satellite Radio into one easy-to-use system, displaying them on an 8-inch touch screen.

For the customer who wants more control of transmission gear selection, SelectShift Automatic™ transmission functionality is standard. A toggle switch located on the console shift lever engages the mode, where the transmission doesn’t second-guess the driver, giving total control over gear selection and performance feel.

Other standard features on the 2012 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 include:

•Power moonroof
•Rear view camera
•Second-row heated seats
•Ambient lighting
•Remote Start System
•110-volt power inverter
•Power-adjustable performance pedals
Potent power
Ford tapped into a bit of its proud racing heritage to create the 6.2-liter V8 gasoline engine, which uses big-bore architecture to produce impressive horsepower and torque. The gasoline engine delivers a best-in-class 411 horsepower and 434 lb.-ft. of torque and provides maximum trailer towing capability of 7,500 pounds.

Customer benefits of the 6.2-liter V8 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 efficiency 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 V8 engine allows the spark timing of each cylinder to be individually optimized real-time, throughout the engine speed range. The engine learns the optimum timing via an adaptive algorithm
F-Series firsts
Harley-Davidson F-Series trucks have continuously been pushing the envelope of innovation, bringing a variety of features to F-Series for the first time, including:

•20-inch wheels
•22-inch wheels
•Wet-on-wet paint
•Superchargers
•Badges as interior ornamentation
•All-wheel drive
•Power deployable running boards
•High-gloss painted interior

In Their Own Words -- Bob Glidden

Bob Glidden's career is one of the greatest in NHRA Pro Stock history with 85 national victories, 10 championships and countless records. Glidden spoke about his career as part of Ford Racing's 110th Anniversary season.

Ford 40 MPG: John Force - Advancing Technology

NHRA legend John Force talks about the advanced technologies the 2012 Ford Focus offers. Want your chance to win a 2012 Focus? Go to www.Ford40MPG.com and get signed up today! You could be one of 40 fans to win a 2012 Focus if Ford brings home a championship in NASCAR, NHRA Funny Car and World Rally Championship.

What's Inside Doug? The Ford Spokespuppet Unzipped

Like the Focus, there's more to Doug than you might expect. See what's inside.

Like Doug? Follow him on Facebook and Twitter: facebook.com/focusdoug/ or @focusdoug

Like John? Follow him on Facebook and Twitter: facebook.com/focusjohn/ or @focusjohn

For more info on the all-new 2012 Ford Focus, go to ford.com/focus.

More videos with Doug:

Watch Doug push John's buttons: http://youtu.be/0x4MFG8e5Ho

See how many manbabies per gallon the Focus gets: http://youtu.be/ZP4IbXg9hQU

See why Doug makes John wear a skintight suit: http://youtu.be/UMzsdMOwHM0

How to Wash Your Car

This tutorial shows you car washing tips from a Ford engineer -- tips for a better job, to make the car's finish last longer and to make washing the car easier.

Comparative Tests of Genuine Ford Structural Steel Collision Parts Versus Aftermarket

Video shows parts comparison performance of genuine Ford parts vs. aftermaket collision parts using, computer aided simulation tests, crash sled tests, and actual vehicle crash tests data. In all cases, genuine Ford parts perform as designed. Aftermarket parts performance leads to questions of doubt concerning proper air bag deployment.

Ford Edge with New EcoBoost 2.0L Engine Delivers EPA-Rated 30 MPG Highway, Great Performance

•The popular Ford Edge crossover with EcoBoost® power is EPA-rated at an economical 30 mpg highway and 21 mpg city
•Ford Edge with EcoBoost is now the 13th Ford model/powertrain combination to deliver an EPA fuel economy rating of 30 mpg or more
•EcoBoost, combining smaller engines and turbocharging, is a global Ford engine technology that gives customers the power they want and the fuel efficiency they need
•EcoBoost vehicles have been successful at attracting new customers to the Blue Oval brand, leading the Ford product portfolio in conquest sales

Dearborn, Mich., Aug. 2, 2011 – The Ford Edge crossover, the latest vehicle to receive the company’s EcoBoost® 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, is now certified by the EPA to deliver 30 mpg highway. This complements the best-in-class Edge V6 fuel economy to give utility customers expanded fuel efficient choices.

“Fuel efficiency is important to our customers,” said Amy Marentic, group marketing manager, Large Cars and Crossovers. “Adding the EcoBoost engine to the new Ford Edge crossover makes for 13 vehicles delivering 30 mpg or more in the Ford showroom.”

The Ford Edge delivers 30 mpg on the highway, besting all SUVs its size or larger, in addition to cars such as the Honda Civic Si and the Saab 9-3 automatic. The only competitive utilities offering higher highway fuel economy than Edge with EcoBoost are a few smaller-size vehicles such as the Ford Escape Hybrid.

Combining gasoline direct injection and turbocharging with smaller overall displacement, this advanced new EcoBoost engine delivers the power of a normally aspirated V6, yet delivers four-cylinder fuel efficiency.

EcoBoost has been successful at attracting new, more upscale customers to the Ford showroom. Taurus SHO and Flex with EcoBoost lead the Ford lineup for car and utility conquesting. More than half of all Taurus SHO buyers are new to the Ford brand, and more than 62 percent of Flex with EcoBoost buyers had not previously considered a Ford product.

With popular F-150 pickup trucks now offering an EcoBoost option, sales of Ford vehicles with this advanced technology have crested 70,000 units and the F-150 EcoBoost now accounts for 41 percent of total F-150 sales, making it the top-selling full-sized V6 pickup truck on the market.

EcoBoost is a global Ford engine to provide affordable fuel efficiency for millions of drivers, while delivering the power they desire. By the end of 2011, Ford will have built nearly 180,000 EcoBoost-powered vehicles in North America. EcoBoost will be offered in 90 percent of Ford vehicles by 2013. Ford holds more than 125 patents on its EcoBoost engine technology.

13 at 30 or more
Adding a fuel-efficient EcoBoost engine to the popular Edge crossover means the Ford showroom now offers customers a choice among 13 model/powertrain variations that deliver an EPA fuel economy rating of 30 mpg or more.

These Ford offerings are listed here with their respective city/highway EPA-rated fuel economy estimates:

•Edge with EcoBoost: 21 mpg/30 mpg
•Escape Hybrid FWD: 34 mpg/31 mpg
•Escape Hybrid AWD: 30 mpg/27 mpg
•Fiesta five-speed manual: 29 mpg/37 mpg
•Fiesta automatic: 29 mpg/38 mpg
•Fiesta SFE automatic: 29 mpg/40 mpg
•Focus five-speed manual: 26 mpg/36 mpg
•Focus automatic: 28 mpg/38 mpg
•Focus SFE automatic: 28 mpg/40 mpg
•Fusion 2.5-liter automatic: 23 mpg/33 mpg
•Fusion Hybrid: 41 mpg/36 mpg
•Mustang 3.7-liter Coupe automatic: 19 mpg/31 mpg
•Mustang 3.7-liter Convertible automatic: 19 mpg/30 mpg

Edge fuel-saving technologies
Building on Edge V6 best-in-class highway fuel economy, the EcoBoost powertrain makes Edge an even more economical proposition.

This advanced EcoBoost four-cylinder engine provides the optimum balance between fuel efficiency and responsive power, delivering 240 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and a generous 270 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,000 rpm. Edge with EcoBoost delivers comparable fuel economy to Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain, yet offers utility shoppers a responsive choice as Edge provides a 58 horsepower advantage over these compact General Motors offerings.

The Edge with EcoBoost combination of superior fuel efficiency and ample responsiveness is enabled by direct gasoline injection and twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT).

Efficiency is further enhanced through employment of low-friction 5W-GF5 motor oil, a variable-displacement air conditioning compressor and a unique 6F35 six-speed automatic transmission optimized for fuel efficiency through employment of active transmission warm-up to help reduce internal friction as the powertrain approaches normal operating temperature.

Edge with EcoBoost also introduces category-exclusive active grille shutters. These variable grille slats close as vehicle speed increases to improve aerodynamics and fuel efficiency.


Production location
The 2012 Edge with EcoBoost is produced at the Oakville Assembly Complex in Ontario, Canada

Ford Drops Price of SYNC by $100, Making Hands-Free, Voice-Activated In-Car Connectivity More Affordable, Available to All

SYNC with MyFord
SYNC with MyFord Touch + Audio by Sony

SYNC with MyFord Touch

•Ford initiates new pricing strategy for SYNC®, making the hands-free, voice-activated connectivity system more affordable for customers; dropping option price to $295 makes SYNC the most capable and most affordable system on the market
•Launching first on the 2012 Ford Explorer and Edge, SYNC will now be available as optional equipment on base trim levels, marking broader availability and more choice for customers
•Making hands-free technology more affordable and available comes on the heels of Ford becoming the first automaker to announce its support for a nationwide ban on the use of hand-held mobile devices while driving


Ford is making hands-free, voice-controlled in-car connectivity even more affordable, announcing both a $100 price drop for Ford SYNC® along with expanded availability by offering it as an option on base trim levels for the first time.

DEARBORN, Mich., August 1, 2011 – Ford is making hands-free, voice-controlled in-car connectivity even more affordable, announcing both a $100 price drop for Ford SYNC® along with expanded availability by offering it as an option on base trim levels for the first time.

“Ford SYNC is making a difference. Our customers love it and recommend it, and our dealers want it on more products,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “SYNC already has brought hands-free, voice-activated in-car connectivity to millions, helping keep drivers’ eyes on the road and hands on the wheel. Now, Ford is making it even easier for customers to afford exactly what they want.”

The move marks the company’s latest push to make voice control the primary and safest way for customers to access their favorite mobile devices while driving – a capability more and more drivers are clamoring for, according to the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA).

In a 2010 study, the CEA found that 55 percent of smartphone owners, for example, prefer voice commands as their primary in-car user interface. SYNC users agree, with internal Ford research showing more than 85 percent say they use voice controls while driving, up from 60 percent in previous studies.

This month, Ford became the first automaker to openly support the Safe Drivers Act of 2011, proposed federal legislation for a nationwide ban on the use of hand-held mobile devices while driving. To date, 10 states, including California and New York, have legally banned talking on a hand-held cellphone while driving, with many local municipalities also following suit enacting their own set of restrictions. Text messaging while driving is banned in 34 states.

The new SYNC pricing and choice strategy for 2012 ups the ante on how Ford is translating this trend into real-world actions that offer smarter in-vehicle connectivity solutions for customers.

“As the list of states banning hand-held calls and texting while driving continues to grow and legislators ponder a nationwide ban, Ford is strengthening its leadership position as the only full-line automaker with plans to offer available hands-free mobile device connectivity on 100 percent of its passenger vehicle lineup,” said Czubay.

SYNC has been installed already on more than 3 million vehicles since its debut in 2007.


With the base SYNC package, customers will enjoy the core hands-free features and services that have quickly established SYNC as a must-have technology, with more than 76 percent of current SYNC users saying they would recommend the system to other customers. Those features include:


•Hands-free, voice-activated calling via a Bluetooth®-connected mobile phone
•Hands-free, voice-activated control of a USB-connected digital music player
•911 Assist™, the automated emergency calling service that is free for the life of the vehicle
•Vehicle Health Report, the on-demand diagnostic and maintenance information service

In addition, customers who choose the base package will have the option to purchase a SYNC Services subscription, which expands voice-controlled features to include a cloud-based network of services. These include turn-by-turn directions, traffic reports, and business search information with available live operator assistance if needed. A SYNC Services subscription costs only $60 a year, besting the telematics services offered by the competition.

Ford dealers are excited about the prospect of being able to offer SYNC to a larger population of their customers.

James T. Seavitt, president of Village Ford in Dearborn, Mich., says he wouldn’t be surprised to see those rates soar even higher with the new SYNC pricing and base model availability. Seavitt admits that approximately 75 percent of the vehicles he currently sells have SYNC.

“Customers frequently ask about SYNC in our dealership as they continue to hear more about the benefits and convenience of hands-free connectivity while driving,” said Seavitt. “This move from Ford will help dealers put more customers in SYNC-equipped vehicles so they can experience why using their voice to control their favorite mobile devices in the car is a smarter choice.”

On Edge and Explorer alone, SYNC has already been a big hit on the showroom floor, with current take rates above 80 percent. With the new pricing strategy, SYNC is now expected to be installed on more than 95 percent of models sold.

During the next three years, Ford will introduce the new SYNC pricing and choice strategy across the entire North American Ford vehicle lineup.

Vehicles next in line after the 2012 Ford Explorer and Edge include the 2013 Ford Taurus, Focus, Escape and Flex

Ford 40 MPG: 40 MPG Mashup

Hear several of the Ford NASCAR drivers talk about the great gas mileage you can get with the new 2012 Ford Focus. You could be one of 40 fans to win a 2012 Focus if Ford brings home a championship in NASCAR, NHRA Funny Car and World Rally Championship.

X Games 17 Rally Racing Recap

Saturday was the Rally Racing (aka SuperRally) competition and Marcus Gronholm brought home the silver medal.Ford Racing TV's Vaughn Gittin Jr. was on hand to catch up with Tanner Foust and Marcus Gronholm.

Yellow Cab of San Francisco Comments on Ford Hybrid Taxis

Hal Mellegard, of Yellow Cab in San Francisco talks about their experience with Ford Hybrid taxis.

2011 Ford F-150 Full Line - First Test

Truck Trend Magazine Executive Editor Allyson Harwood takes at look at four flavors of the 2011 Ford F-150 -- XLT, Lariat, STX and Harley Davidson Editon -- and the four different engines that each one has.

Read the full story here: http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/trucks/1110_2011_ford_f_150_full_line_tes...

Ford Escape Hybrid Taxi Teardown (brakes/motors)

Ford engineers teardown a New York City hybrid taxi and analyze the brake and electric motor system.

Ford Escape Hybrid Taxi Teardown (battery)

Ford engineers teardown a New York City hybrid taxi and analyze the battery system.

Forward with Ford: In Their Own Words - Paul Hochman

Paul Hochman of "The Today Show" shares his view of the future at Forward with Ford, a futuring and trends conference held in Dearborn, MI.