12/31/11

Ford Brand Sales Top 2 Million for 1st Time Since 2007

DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 30, 2011 – U.S. sales of the Ford brand this week topped 2 million vehicles for the first time since 2007. The milestone makes Ford the best selling brand in America and the first automotive brand to hit the 2 million mark since 2007.
“Ford’s lineup of high-quality, fuel-efficient cars, utilities and trucks continues to attract more and more new customers,” said Erich Merkle, Ford’s sales analysis manager. “With gasoline prices tracking higher than last year, customers continue to move toward smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles, whether they are passenger cars or utilities.”
Both the Ford Fiesta and Ford Focus achieve 40 mpg highway, while the Ford Explorer brings a class leading 28 mpg highway with its new EcoBoost engine.
Ford’s smallest utility, the fuel-efficient Escape, has achieved record sales volumes this year and is America’s best selling utility vehicle. 
Overall, Ford brand small cars are on pace to post an increase of more than 20 percent this year. Ford brand utilities are tracking to post more than a 30 percent gain.
Most Ford products deliver best-in-class fuel economy and provide customers with the opportunity to choose what best works for them – from EcoBoost-powered gasoline vehicles to hybrids, plug-in hybrids and electrified vehicles. In fact, with the company’s new electrified vehicle introductions, nearly one-third of Ford’s vehicle lines in the U.S. will feature a model with 40 mpg or more in 2012 – a claim no other full-line automaker can match.

12/30/11

Ford Lane Keeping System Helps Fusion Drivers Stay Alert and Between the Lines



Ford's Lane Keeping System helps avoid unintentional lane departure and will be available on the 2013 all-new Fusion.
  • All-new Ford Fusion will offer available Lane Keeping System to alert and assist the driver when the car is drifting out of the lane
  • Windshield-mounted digital camera detects lane markers and the car’s position on the road
  • Electric power steering provides a vibration alert that simulates rumble strips to the driver through the wheel and assistance to stay between the lines
  • Persistent drifting consistent with a drowsy driver triggers chimes and warning lamp alerts to stop and rest
DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 30, 2011 – With many of us driving long distances to visit friends and family during the holiday season, drowsiness can easily creep up when behind the wheel. That’s why the all-new Ford Fusion will offer a Lane Keeping System (LKS) to help drivers stay between the lines.
The new Ford Fusion, which will debut at the North American International Auto Show in January, is the first mainstream midsize sedan in North America to offer this technology. Ford will roll out the Lane Keeping System to a wide range of its vehicles over the next several years. In addition to the new Fusion, the Ford Explorer also will offer the feature in 2012.
The Lane Keeping System uses a digital camera mounted on the windshield ahead of the rearview mirror, allowing the Fusion to watch the road ahead to detect an unintentional lane departure. The Ford Lane Keeping System has three levels of assistance available to the driver depending on what is happening: Lane Keeping Alert, Lane Keeping Aid and Driver Alert.
“Fusion’s Lane Keeping System combines a digital imaging sensor with our own state-of-the-art control software to process images and determine what level of warning or assistance to provide to the driver,” said Michael Kane, Ford development engineer. “We’ve put a lot of effort into ensuring the accuracy of the lane detection and the smoothness of the assist.”
The driver must turn on the Lane Keeping System. Once the vehicle speed is above 40 mph and lane markers are clearly visible on the road, an icon that looks like a car between two lanes lights up green in the instrument cluster to indicate the system has been enabled. Ford’s Lane Keeping System takes advantage of the electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) used in the new Fusion to provide a vibrating alert to the driver and then gently steer the car back into the lane if the driver doesn’t respond.
When the system detects the car is approaching the edge of the lane without a turn signal activated, the lane marker in the icon turns yellow and the steering wheel vibrates to simulate driving over rumble strips. If the driver doesn’t respond and continues to drift, the lane icon turns red and EPAS will nudge the steering and the vehicle back toward the center of the lane. If the car continues to drift, the vibration is added again along with the nudge. The driver can overcome assistance and vibration at any time by turning the steering wheel, accelerating or braking.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration conservatively estimates that 100,000 police-reported crashes occur every year as a result of drowsy drivers, leading to 1,500 deaths, 71,000 injuries and $12.5 billion in monetary losses.
“Ford’s Lane Keeping System software monitors the car’s position in real time,” said Kane. “But it also keeps track of behavior over a longer period while driving. If a driver is tired, this can often be detected by the car constantly drifting back and forth across the road.”
Drivers can monitor whether the system is detecting behavior consistent with drowsy driving with an alert gauge in the instrument cluster that features a steaming cup of coffee. As the indicator gets closer to the coffee cup, the driver should consider taking a break to rest.
If the driver doesn’t take a break and the system detects a driving pattern consistent with being tired, an audible chime and a visual alert will suggest the driver stop and rest. If the same conditions persist and the driver doesn’t stop, a second, more assertive warning will be issued. As soon as the driver stops and shuts off the engine or opens the door, the monitor resets its information.
Whether it’s a gust of wind, a momentary distraction or heavy eyelids that cause the vehicle to wander, the Lane Keeping System in the 2013 Ford Fusion effectively provides drivers with an extra set of eyes on the road and hands on the wheel to help them arrive at their destination safe and sound.

12/29/11

Best Sales Year Ever for Award-Winning Ford Fusion



Ford Fusion Sales 2006 - 2011
  • As Ford prepares an all-new Fusion for reveal next month, the current model continues to sell at a record pace, pleasing customers and dealers alike
     
  • Since its introduction as a 2006 model, Fusion sales have risen steadily – making it Ford’s best-selling car for 2011
     
  • The freshened 2010 model introduced Ford’s first hybrid electric car, leading to Fusion Hybrid being named the 2010 North American Car of the Year 
     
  • Fusion’s high quality and safety make it the J.D. Power Most Dependable Midsize Car and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick
DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 28, 2011 – In five short years since introduction, Fusion sales are expected to reach 240,000 by year-end, making 2011 its best-selling year ever and Fusion Ford’s best-selling car. 
 
“Since launching in the 2006 model year, Fusion has reinforced Ford’s commitment to the midsize sedan market,” said Samantha Hoyt, Fusion marketing manager. “Recognized as a Best Buy every year since launch, Fusion is a key contributor to Ford’s car renaissance.”
 
Since its first full year of sales in 2006 through 2010, the Ford Fusion has expanded share of the midsize segment by 5.2 percentage points. In 2006, Fusion had sales of 142,502 and 6.7 percent of segment share. By 2010, Fusion sales had risen to 219,219 for an 11.9 percent share, representing an increase in sales of 54 percent over that period. By comparison, Toyota Camry experienced a 27 percent decline while Honda Accord sales saw a 20 percent drop.
 
Fusion has continued to accelerate, achieving record sales levels for 13 out of the last 14 months through November, reaching sales of 226,445. December sales are expected to increase this streak to 14 months. In October, Fusion sales eclipsed the 200,000-units sold milestone for the second year in a row. 

Recognized by automotive and consumer media for quality and dependability, Fusion has been a success for drivers and dealers. Fusion’s trophy case includes:
 
  • Most Reliable Family Car –from independent reliability and owner satisfaction survey data
  • Most Dependable Midsize Car – J.D. Power and Associates
  • Motor Trend’s 2010 Car of the Year – a highly coveted industry accolade
  • 2010 North American Car of the Year – awarded by a jury of top automotive journalists
“In addition to being a sales superstar, Fusion has been incredibly successful in attracting new customers to the Ford showroom,” said Hoyt. “Fusion is our top conquest vehicle, as 40 percent of Fusion buyers are new to the Ford brand.”
 
A key to Fusion’s success has been offering features consumers want to keep them connected and safe. The majority of Fusions sold are highly equipped models. Specifically:
 
  • 84 percent of Fusion models are sold with SYNC®, Ford’s award-winning voice-controlled communications and entertainment system
  • 20 percent of Fusion models are sold with Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®)
  • 44 percent of Fusion models are sold with a reverse sensing system
  • 20 percent of Fusions are sold with a rear view camera system
Fusion has also been a linchpin in Ford’s eastern and western regional sales success, both markets that traditionally prefer imported midsize sedans. Fusion’s share has increased from 4.5 percent in 2007 to 8.2 percent in 2011 in the east, while in the west it has increased from 4.3 percent to 7.3 percent over the same period.
 
The 2012 Ford Fusion is offered in both gas and Hybrid versions with available all-wheel drive for confidence in any driving situation.
 
Ford will reveal an all-new Fusion model during the North American International Auto Show in January.

12/28/11

Visit Our Parts Department

 

Visit our parts department for all your Ford and Kia parts needs, including maintenance parts and chemicals. We also have factory accessories, such as Keyless Entry Keypad. 

12/27/11

Taking Chassis Cab Orders Now

 
Got a good body and a worn out truck? We can order you a cab chassis and transfer your existing body to the new truck and take care of all of it for you. Plan ahead.  Taking chassis cab orders now.

12/26/11

Our Youth Service Award Program Helps Non-Profit Youth Organizations

 


The Larry Geweke Ford Youth Service Award program was developed in 1986 to recognize, with a financial contribution, non-profit youth organizations who have demonstrated an exceptional civic contribution to benefit the youth in our community.

Once a year a panel of judges, consisting of community members, have the difficult task of selecting recipients from numerous applications received.

Through the years the Youth Service Award program has provided youth organizations with the funds necessary to enhance community programs. Contributions are made from each vehicle sale during a month, thus all vehicles purchased at Larry Geweke Ford will directly benefit an organization dedicated to serving youth. To date, Larry Geweke Ford has provided over $300,000 to local non-profit youth organizations. Some organizations that have benefitted for multiple years include Sutter County Libraby (kids chapter books collection), Hands of Hope, Trauma Intervention Program, Yuba-Sutter-Colusa Special Olympics, Sutter Medical Foundation's Children's Bereavement Program and many more. Applications for 2012 will go out in early December in deciding recipients for the 2012 year. 

12/25/11

Happy Holidays

Geweke Commercial Truck & Fleet Sales Would Like To Wish You And Your Family A Very Safe And Happy Holiday!!


12/24/11

See Scott For Commercial Service

Scott Babler has been with Larry Geweke's Service Department for over 11 years and is excellent at taking care of our customers. Scott is also our Commercial Truck/Fleet Service Writer and he knows what it means to get those folks who use their trucks everyday for work, to get them back in operation as soon as possible with the least amount of downtime.

So, where is Scott? He's in the back of the building on the eastern side of the service department where the heavy duty truck stalls are located. His office is right there. 
Give Scott a call at his direct line: 530-821-4735 and let him know how he can help you get your vehicle in top working order.

Scott wanted to let all our customers know that Larry Geweke can work on all makes and models of trucks, including those with CAT, Cummins, International, and other engine makes.* So, if your fleet has a mix of trucks, bring them all here! Save time and money.

* Give Scott a call and he will give you all the details. 

12/23/11

December Coupons

Check these great deals out! 
15%
Off
Any Cooling System Service

Present at write-up. Not valid with other offers.
Valid only at Larry Geweke Ford. See dealer for details.
Offer Expires: Dec 31, 2011

Service Special

Spend And Save!

    $100-$200                                 $10
    $200-$300                                 $20
    $300-$400                                 $30
    $400-$500                                 $40
    $500 or more                           $50

Present at write-up. Not valid with other offers.
Valid only at Larry Geweke Ford. See dealer for details.
Offer Expires: Dec 31, 2011

12/22/11

A Few Head-Turning Bargains For Your Work Truck Needs


Service Body manufacturers have Ford chassis on the ground ready to install your new commercial service body. Now is the time to order your truck in order to get it by the end of the year. Give me a call at 530-682-7693 today!
  
-----------------------------------------------------

 
PRICE REDUCED $2,000!!!  
 
The Perfect Contractor Body

2011 Ford F350 1-Ton Chassis with 6.2 liter Gas V8. The body is a Scelzi 12' Contractor Body and includes Upper tool boxes with fold down doors and open top lids like a service body. It also includes underbed boxes on both sides, load divider, class IV receiver, HD forklift loadable rack, fold-down aluminum slat gates areound the back and and aluminum floor for strength and durability pluse weight savings that translates into added cargo capacity. MSRP is $41,056.
REDUCED Sale Price is $32,995 after $4000 rebate. Stock #32706, vin#BEC26698. See Video  

12/21/11

All-New 1967 Mustang Convertible Body Joins Growing Stable of Classic Ford-Licensed Restoration Parts



The 1967 Mustang convertible body shell is the fourth reproduction body licensed by Ford Motor Co.
  • Restorers can now build a “new” 1967 Mustang convertible with an all-new steel body
     
  • The ’67 Mustang convertible body is stronger than the original and can be outfitted with Ford’s big-block engines
     
  • With nearly 8.5 million built since first debuting in 1964, the Ford Mustang is America’s longest selling four-seat sports car
DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 20, 2011 – The latest addition to the growing stable of classic Mustang bodies – the 1967 convertible – just might be the ultimate stocking stuffer this Christmas for restorers of America’s favorite sports car.
 
The 1967 convertible body shell, the newest officially licensed Ford Restoration part, is now available to order starting at $15,995. It is the fourth reproduction classic Mustang body available to restorers, joining the ’65 convertible, the ’67 fastback and the ’69 fastback.
 
To qualify as an official Ford-licensed restoration part, the ’67 body shell has to meet or exceed the fit, finish and quality of the original, said Dennis Mondrach, Ford Restoration Parts licensing manager. “The new ’67 convertible body shell gives restorers a super-solid foundation on which to build their dream pony car.”
 
Dynacorn International, manufacturer of the ’67 convertible body, worked to not only replicate the original ’67 convertible, but make it better. The body panels, for example, are stamped from modern automotive-grade virgin steel that is slightly thicker than the original, according to Jim Christina, Dynacorn general manager. Then, to further add strength, the panels are assembled using modern welding techniques. There are also newly engineered reinforcements in known stress areas to add strength and rigidity to the body, added Christina.
 
“These days, the chances are fairly slim of finding a restorable, rust-free ’67 Mustang that has never been wrecked,” said Mondrach. “As the value of classic Mustangs has increased over the years, garages, barns and scrapyards have been picked clean.”
 
Now, Mustang fans dreaming of restoring a classic ’67 convertible – or building one with a modern powertrain – won’t have to spend time and money getting an original ’67 convertible body into restorable condition. That expensive, time-consuming step can be skipped by starting with the new ’67 convertible body. “Some minor panel adjustment and alignment still has to be done, but the body comes rustproofed and primed and is otherwise ready for painting and assembly,” said Mondrach. More information about the ’67 body shell and all other Ford-licensed restoration parts can be found at www.fordrestorationparts.com.
 
’67 Mustang: More luxury, more power, more style
After a record-setting production run that saw more than a million Mustangs gallop out of Ford factory gates in just 18 months, the 1967 model was given a major redesign. The move helped keep Mustang ahead of the pack as new competitors from General Motors and Chrysler along with imported sports cars from Great Britain claimed a larger share of the mid-1960s youth market.
 
No part of the Mustang was overlooked in 1967. The body was widened, the hood lengthened, and the engine bay grew in size to accommodate an array of six engines ranging from a thrifty and peppy 200-cubic-inch inline six-cylinder all the way up to a thundering 390-horsepower 427 that came in the Shelby GT500. This helped launch an entirely new generation of big-block high-horsepower pony cars that fueled the growing muscle car mania.
 
The ’67 also got all-new sheetmetal, a redesigned grille, new taillights and a nifty option that put turn signals in the hood scoops. On the inside, the more luxurious interior took the Mustang in a new direction. Buyers could opt for a tilt-away steering wheel, a gauge package with a built-in tachometer, brushed aluminum trim on the dash, door panels and shifter console. There was also a roof console with map lights between the sun visors, and the ’67 was the first Mustang with built-in air conditioning that was packaged behind the dash, not under it.
 
Because more than 90 percent of the parts needed to restore a 1967 Mustang convertible are available new as Ford-licensed reproduction components, the ’67 convertible body can be built to just about any specification that was available when the car was new. Ford’s big-block engines from that era, including the 390, 427 and 428-cubic-inch motors, bolt right in with no modifications necessary. Also, the ’67 body can be used as a basis to build a replica of the Shelby GT350 or GT500 convertibles.
 
“The ’67 convertible body is supported by thousands of high-quality Ford-licensed restoration parts,” Mondrach said. “So, though it may be possible to build a 1967 Mustang using almost all new parts, we think most customers who buy the ’67 convertible shell will use it for high-performance applications, resto-mod projects or for show cars.”