Ford F-150 to Offer Ability to Run on Compressed Natural Gas; Sales of Ford CNG-Prepped Vehicles Continue Growth

• 2014 Ford F-150 will offer a gaseous-fuel prep option on the 3.7-liter V6 engine; it will be able to run on compressed natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas

• With the addition of F-150, Ford will have eight vehicles available to run on clean-burning, inexpensive CNG/LPG. Sales continue to grow rapidly, with Ford expecting to sell more than 15,000 CNG/LPG-prepped vehicles this year

• Ford Qualified Vehicle Modifiers offer a wide variety of CNG options to help customers find the best, most cost-effective solution to their diverse operating needs

Ford, America’s truck leader, will offer the 2014 F-150 with the ability to run on compressed natural gas, making Ford the only manufacturer with an available CNG/LPG-capable half-ton pickup.

The 2014 Ford F-150 with 3.7-liter V6 engine will be available this fall with a factory-installed, gaseous-fuel prep package that includes hardened valves, valve seats, pistons and rings so it can operate on either natural gas or gasoline through separate fuel systems.

When the 3.7-liter V6 F-150 is equipped with a CNG/LPG engine package, it is capable of achieving more than 750 miles on one tank of gas, depending on the tank size selected. The Ford F-150 averages 23 mpg on the highway.

“Businesses and fleet customers have been asking Ford to make F-150 available with CNG capability to take advantage of the fuel’s low price and clean emissions,” said Jon Coleman, Ford fleet sustainability and technology manager. “With the money saved using CNG, customers could start to see payback on their investment in as little as 24 to 36 months.”

CNG/LPG engine prep from the factory costs approximately $315 before the customer chooses a Ford Qualified Vehicle Modifier to supply fuel tanks, fuel lines and unique fuel injectors. Upfits run approximately $7,500 to $9,500 depending on fuel tank capacity.

CNG conversions can provide stability against fluctuating fuel prices as well as lower vehicle operating costs for fleet administrators. CNG sells for an average of $2.11 per gallon of gasoline equivalent, and is as low as $1 in some parts of the country, representing a significant savings over unleaded regular fuel. The national average for unleaded regular fuel is $3.66 per gallon.

In the next year, Ford will offer eight commercial vehicles with a gaseous-prep option, a number no other full-line manufacturer can match:

• Transit Connect van and wagon
• Transit van, wagon, cutaway and chassis cab
• E-Series van, wagon, cutaway and stripped chassis
• F-Series Super Duty pickup and F-350 chassis cab
• F-Series Super Duty chassis cab (F-450, F-550)
• F-650 medium-duty truck
• F53 and F59 stripped chassis
• 2014 F-150 light-duty pickup

Customers are enthusiastically responding to this powerful array of choices. Since reintroducing the option in 2009, Ford has established itself as the leader in CNG/LPG engine sales. Ford is on pace to sell more than 15,000 CNG/LPG-prepped vehicles this year, an increase of more than 25 percent from 2012.

AT&T is one of many Ford customers that are finding value in CNG. The communications giant recently purchased 650 F-350 chassis cabs with the CNG-prep option.

“We’re almost halfway to our company-wide goal of deploying 15,000 alternative-fuel vehicles by the end of year 2018,” said Jerome Webber, AT&T vice president, global fleet operations. “Vehicles such as CNG F-350s from Ford have helped us avoid purchasing 7.7 million gallons of gasoline over the past five years while reducing our fleet’s emissions.”

Qualified Vehicle Modifiers

Ford has established a rigorous qualification program for alternative-fuel vehicle modifiers. The QVM program is intended to help modifiers achieve greater levels of customer satisfaction and product acceptance through the manufacture of high-quality vehicles.

QVMs offer a wide variety of CNG/LPG options to help customers find the best, most cost-effective solution to their diverse operating needs. Ford maintains the engine and powertrain limited warranty (five years or 60,000 miles); the modifier is responsible for the system component warranty.

Compressed natural gas

Compressed natural gas is mainly composed of methane. It is stored and distributed in hard containers at a pressure of approximately 3,600 psi. About 85 percent of the CNG used in the United States is produced domestically.

Another benefit of this alternative fuel: Cleaner emissions. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency certifies CNG usage can result in up to 30 percent less greenhouse gas emissions.

Reflections on Ford Motor Company's Founder Henry

Ford family members share their thoughts on the life and legacy of company founder Henry Ford on the 150th anniversary of his birth.

Ford Fund Celebrates Innovation as Part of Henry Ford’s Legacy; Elena Ford Awards Inventors with Special Prizes

• Two days before the 150^th birthday of Henry Ford, Ford Motor Company Fund is sponsoring Henry Ford Maker Challenge, named after one of the most influential innovators of the 20^th century

• Elena Ford presented awards to three inventors out of the 400 participating in the fourth annual Maker Faire at The Henry Ford

• Ford Fund supports innovation in education through long-term partnerships with nonprofits

 

DEARBORN, Mich., July 28, 2013 – Two days before the 150^th birthday of Henry Ford, Henry Ford Maker Challenge is encouraging inventors young and old to test their mettle in a special competition named after one of the most influential innovators of the 20^th century.

 

Three awards were presented today by Elena Ford, vice president, global dealer and consumer experience, Ford Motor Company, during Maker Faire at The Henry Ford. Inventors in these categories – Younger Maker (youth), Sustainability and Hands-On Learning – each are awarded a $500 cash prize and $2,000 for their choice of a charity from a list provided by Ford Motor Company Fund.

 

The competition involved 400 makers, who displayed their inventions for approximately 27,000 visitors at The Henry Ford’s fourth annual Maker Faire.

 

“Henry Ford knew more than most how satisfying and rewarding the invention process can be,” said Elena Ford, great-great-granddaughter of Henry Ford. “His innovations changed the world, and at Ford his inspiration continues to drive our company, our products and our commitment to the community.”

 

Ford Fund supports numerous initiatives that promote innovation in education including:

 

• Ford Next Generation Learning, which aligns business and civic engagement for career-themed academies within existing public high schools. The program reaches more than 300,000 students in 27 states, and is aimed at improving student outcomes and workforce readiness
• A network of four Henry Ford Academies based on an award-winning small high school model and the HFA Model Curriculum, believed to be the first in the nation to focus explicitly on innovation and creativity
• Ford Blue Oval Scholars, a Web-based initiative that links thousands of Ford scholarship winners. Ford Fund provides more than $1 million in scholarships each year

Earlier this year Ford Fund announced a $500,000 grant to the Smithsonian to support and expand its Spark!Lab program. Designed to look and feel like an inventor’s workshop, Spark!Lab incorporates traditional math and science activities with creative arts and social interaction to form a space where children and families engage in the invention process.

Potential for Open-Source Car Customization Showcased on Ford Mustang Using OpenXC Platform

• Ford engineer uses motor from Microsoft^™ Xbox 360^® game controller to create shift knob that vibrates when a driver should shift gears in a Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 with manual transmission

• 3D-printed prototype shift knob uses Ford’s OpenXC research platform to link devices to the car via Bluetooth^®, and shares vehicle data from  the on-board diagnostics port

• OpenXC provides an easy and inexpensive way to develop connected apps or to prototype new hardware features

 

DEARBORN, Mich., July 26, 2013 – An important part of the total gaming experience for hardcore video gamers is getting physical feedback through the controller as they keep their eyes on the screen. It’s called haptic feedback. For drivers of performance cars like Ford Mustang, feedback is just as important to understanding how the car is behaving.

 

Rookie Ford engineer Zach Nelson has harnessed the power of open-source hardware and software, 3D printing, wireless connectivity and Microsoft^™ Xbox 360^® to bring haptic feedback to a Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 through a manual shift knob that vibrates at the optimal time to change gears.

 

“I wanted to create something that expands the car’s capabilities and improves the experience for the driver,” said Nelson. “I decided to use OpenXC to provide a new kind of feedback for the driver through the shift knob.”

 

Customization and personalization have been part of the Mustang experience for nearly 50 years. The earliest ads for Mustang proclaimed it as “The Car Designed to be Designed by You!” That spirit continues today, whether following the traditional route of modifying the engines, suspension and body or the modern approach to improving the driving experience through software.

 

Ford’s open-source OpenXC software and hardware platform enables developers to create apps that leverage the data available through a car’s on-board diagnostics port.

 

Nelson, armed with a freshly minted mechanical engineering degree from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, joined Ford in September 2012 through the company’s college graduate program. His first assignment was at Ford’s Research and Innovation Center in Dearborn, Mich., where he was introduced to OpenXC.

 

After learning how to build a mobile app, Nelson designed one that could use real-time engine data, such as revolutions per minute, or rpm; accelerator pedal position; and vehicle speed to calculate the optimum shift points for the manual transmission. The data are transmitted from the car’s OBD-II port to a tablet computer over a wireless Bluetooth^® connection using the OpenXC adapter. For testing and development purposes, the tablet uses a USB cable to send the shift knob signals to vibrate like a game controller or phone.

 

Nelson began by modifying a digital model of the shift knob from a Ford Focus ST, turning it into a hollow shell with room for some extra parts, and printing it with a MakerBot^® Thing-O-Matic™.

 

He installed an Arduino controller with a mini-USB port, LED display, colored LED lights and the vibration motor from a Microsoft Xbox 360 game controller.

 

“The vibrating knob can be installed onto the stock shift lever, and I’ve tested it on several vehicles including Mustang and Focus ST,” Nelson says. “I decided to have a little fun with it and installed an LED display on top that shows the gear position and colored lights that glow from inside at night similar to the ambient lighting in Mustang.”

 

Moving the system to different vehicles only requires tuning some calibrations in the app to match the torque curve of the car. By monitoring the driver’s style through speed and the throttle pedal, the app automatically adapts its control strategy to suit what it thinks the driver is looking for. The app can be programmed to determine shift points for best performance, comfort or fuel efficiency based on modes selected by the driver.

 

For performance cars like Mustang, the potential for customization using OpenXC signals that there is a secure future for both tuners and developers alike.

 

“OpenXC is a great platform for developing connected apps and aftermarket upgrades, or quickly prototyping features that could eventually be incorporated directly into the vehicle,” Nelson says. “The basic concept of my system could be integrated directly into the car, and used on automatic-transmission vehicles with paddle shifters with electric power steering.”

Ford Social Explores Fuel Economy Myths

Ford Social sits down with Kevin Layden, Director of Electrification Programs and Engineering for Ford, to discuss common fuel economy myths submitted by our fans.

150th Anniversary of Henry Ford’s Birth Declared ‘Henry Ford Day’ by Michigan Legislature; Celebrated with Community Event

• The 150^th birthday of Henry Ford – July 30, 2013 – is declared “Henry Ford Day” in the state of Michigan

• Celebration honoring Henry Ford’s 150^th birthday to be held on Saturday, July 27, at Henry and Clara Ford’s historic home, Henry Ford Estate/Fair Lane in Dearborn, Mich.

• Henry Ford Estate Inc., a nonprofit that shares governance with Edsel & Eleanor Ford House, takes ownership of the Dearborn estate

  

DEARBORN, Mich., July 25, 2013 – The enduring impact of Henry Ford and the 150^th anniversary of his birth will be celebrated with the declaration of “Henry Ford Day” by the state of Michigan, a community-wide event and official transfer of ownership of the home of Henry and Clara Ford.

 

Henry Ford’s life and legacy will be celebrated at a free community event – Coming Together: A Celebration of Henry Ford’s 150^th Birthday – held on Saturday, July 27 at Henry and Clara Ford’s historic home, Henry Ford Estate/Fair Lane in Dearborn, Mich.

 

Recognizing Henry Ford’s vast accomplishments and innovations, the Michigan legislature also declares Tuesday, July 30 “Henry Ford Day” in the state of Michigan, marking the official 150^th anniversary of the founder of Ford Motor Company’s birth.

 

Both the Michigan House and Michigan Senate adopted resolutions earlier this year to acknowledge Henry Ford’s impact on the automotive industry and on society at large. The resolutions note, “He is recognized for his pioneering spirit and innovation that put the world on wheels, and we honor his contribution to significant social and economic progress.”

 

The resolutions will be presented to Bill Ford and Edsel Ford II by representatives of the Michigan House and Michigan Senate as part of the community celebration.

 

“What my great-grandfather established, especially his legacy of innovation, continues to inspire us today in the products we develop and the communities we serve,” said Ford Executive Chairman Bill Ford. “We are putting unexpected levels of technology within reach of millions of people, accelerating the development of new products, creating jobs and bringing the freedom of mobility to the world.”

 

Henry Ford’s legacy – a community celebration

The community event will be open to the public on July 27 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A short program will be held at 11:30 a.m. with key members of the Ford family and representatives from the Michigan legislature, Henry Ford Estate and University of Michigan. Henry Ford Estate/Fair Lane is located at One Fair Lane Drive in Dearborn.

 

Henry Ford’s introduction of the automobile into the mass market transformed agricultural economies in the United States and around the world into prosperous industrial and urban economies. Many historians credit Henry Ford with creating a middle class in America. His high minimum wage – revolutionary at the time – set a precedent for fair distribution of company wealth that influenced later management practices.

 

The community event will celebrate Henry Ford’s multifaceted passions – automobiles, music, dancing, farmers and artisans. Key activities include:

 

• Live music and dance instructors will give guests a unique chance to experience the traditions that were so important to the Fords
• A special farmers market will commemorate Clara and Henry’s avid interest in agriculture and support for local farming
• Food from locally sourced vendors will be available to share with friends and family outdoors as Henry did with the famous Vagabonds – Thomas Edison, Harvey Firestone and John Burroughs
• Vehicles and displays that represent the most influential innovations from Henry’s time throughout the history of Ford Motor Company

A new era for Henry Ford Estate

Henry Ford Estate Inc, also is announcing the official transfer of Henry Ford Estate/Fair Lane from the University of Michigan to the newly formed entity. This nonprofit education organization shares governance with Edsel & Eleanor Ford House.

 

“Bringing together the estates of Henry Ford and his only child Edsel offers a multitude of new opportunities for the community,” said Kathleen Mullins, president of both Henry Ford Estate and Edsel & Eleanor Ford House. “Henry Ford inspired a remarkable story of innovation, philanthropy and responsibility – a story that will be more effectively shared with the coming together of these important properties.”

 

The transfer is the first step in a new era for the estate, which will be restored and reimagined to appeal to the next generation of those interested in the unique life and times of Henry Ford.

Best-Selling Mustangs: Hot Wheels -- Ford Mustang Countdown

More than 9.2 million Mustangs have rolled out of Ford factories since 1965, but Ford is not even close to being the number one seller of pony cars in the world. That honor belongs to Mattel, the manufacturer of Hot Wheels. Mustang was part of the original series of 16 vehicles first released in 1968 and since then Mattel has produced tens of millions of 1:64 and 1:43 scale toy Mustangs. Over the past 45 years at least one Hot Wheels Mustang design has been produced almost every year and they are believed to be among the top sellers.

Ford Delivers Best Hybrid Sales Quarter Ever; Grows Its Market Share and Attracts New Customers to the Brand

• Ford Motor Company delivers its best hybrid quarter ever, with second-quarter sales up 517 percent over last year and up 15 percent over first-quarter 2013

• Ford C-MAX and Ford Fusion hybrids are driving sales growth in nontraditional hybrid markets, including Miami, New York, Washington, D.C. and Seattle, as well as California

• Ford has six electrified Ford and Lincoln vehicles on sale in the U.S. and is on track to triple its electrified vehicle production by the end of this year, compared with 2011

• Following the conclusion of a collaboration with Toyota, Ford is moving forward with the development of a rear-wheel-drive hybrid system on its own; Ford is on track to have the hybrid system ready later this decade on rear-wheel-drive Ford pickups and SUVs  

DEARBORN, Mich., July 23, 2013 – Ford Motor Company set a record for hybrid sales in the second quarter of 2013, with sales of 24,217 vehicles – up 517 percent over last year and up 15 percent over the first quarter of 2013 – as demand grows in markets across the United States and as more Toyota and Honda customers trade in their vehicles for a Ford.

 

It is Ford’s best-ever quarter for hybrid vehicle sales and the first time the company sold more than 24,000 hybrids in a quarter. Ford’s share of the U.S. electrified vehicle market grows to nearly 16 percent in the first half of 2013 – a 12-point gain over last year.

 

Fueling the growth is increasing demand for Ford C-MAX and Ford Fusion hybrid vehicles in California and other new hybrid markets. For example, demand also increased more than 1,000 percent in New York. Chicago saw an 840 percent gain, while hybrid sales rose almost 730 percent in Seattle and close to 500 percent in Washington, D.C. More than 60 percent of U.S. customers are coming from non-Ford brands, with Toyota and Honda vehicles the top competitive trade-ins.

 

“Customers have come to expect fuel economy and leading technology with every new vehicle Ford delivers,” said Jim Farley, executive vice president, global marketing, sales and service and Lincoln. “Our newest hybrids are contributing to Ford’s growth and share gains, while bringing new customers into the showroom in nontraditional hybrid markets.”

 

Through June 2013, Ford sold more than 46,000 electrified vehicles. The company’s strong product lineup has led to Ford’s U.S. market share growing at a faster rate than competitors – gaining nearly a full percentage point through the first half of the year.

 

Six electrified vehicles – and more to come

Ford offers a variety of electrified vehicle options, including hybrids, plug-in hybrids and a battery electric vehicle. The company now has six electrified vehicle choices available in the U.S., including Ford Fusion Hybrid, Ford C-MAX Hybrid, Ford Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid, Ford C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid, Ford Focus Electric and Lincoln MKZ Hybrid.

 

Already Ford’s most fuel-efficient sedan, the all-new Fusion Energi has an EPA-rated total range of up to 620 miles and the ability to drive 21 miles in electric-only mode – nearly triple the electric-only range of plug-in hybrids from Toyota and Honda.

 

Ford Fusion Hybrid is America’s most fuel-efficient midsize hybrid with an EPA-estimated rating of 47 mpg city, highway and combined, up to 6 mpg better than the Toyota Camry Hybrid combined. The all-new Lincoln MKZ Hybrid delivers an EPA-rated 45 mpg city, highway and combined – making it America’s most fuel-efficient luxury sedan.

 

Ford Focus Electric is one of America’s most fuel-efficient compact cars with an EPA-rated 110 MPGe city, 99 MPGe highway and 105 MPGe combined.

 

Rear-wheel-drive hybrid for trucks and SUVs on track

After successfully completing the feasibility and development of the hybrid system project with Toyota, Ford is moving forward on its own with development of a rear-wheel-drive hybrid system for Ford pickups and SUVs.

 

The new hybrid system – which will be available by the end of this decade – will be based on an all-new architecture to deliver the capability truck and SUV customers demand while providing greater fuel economy.

 

“We know what it takes to build world-class hybrids, and we now will build and leverage that expertise in-house,” said Raj Nair, group vice president, global product development. “By continuing to develop a rear-wheel-drive hybrid system on our own, we can extend our advanced hybrid technologies to new vehicle segments and deliver even better fuel economy across our lineup.”

 

While collaboration on the rear-wheel-drive hybrid has concluded, Ford and Toyota will continue to work together on development of next-generation standards for in-car telematics, back-end support systems for call centers and Internet-based services – all designed to bring more Internet-based information to consumers globally.

 

Preparing for the future

To meet increasing demand for hybrids, Ford is hiring more than 200 new electrification engineers and expanding its research facilities to speed development of hybrid and electrified vehicles. Ford also continues to bring in-house more of the development of its most advanced vehicles. This includes the design and engineering of transmissions, batteries and control systems, along with work on the rear-wheel-drive hybrid system.

 

Ford’s continued accelerated work in hybrids is a key component of the company’s Blueprint for Sustainability and plays an important role in delivering leading fuel economy.

 

Within the last year, Ford has invested more than $355 million to design, engineer and manufacture key components for its electrified vehicle lineup.

 

An additional $50 million investment in research and development facilities will double Ford’s electrification battery-testing capabilities, helping to speed electrified vehicle development by as much as 25 percent.

Help Wanted: Ford’s Largest Salaried Hiring Initiative in More Than a Decade Grows by 800 Jobs to 3,000 New U.S. Hires

• Ford will hire 3,000 salaried employees – 800 more than previously expected – this year to continue its product momentum and new growth

• Of the 3,000 new hires, 80 percent will be technical professionals to meet demand for new skills; 85 to 90 percent will be in Michigan, with the remaining positions at Ford locations throughout the United States

• Ford launches advertising campaign with expanded use of social media to target prospective employees

• New salaried positions are in addition to company’s goal to create 12,000 hourly jobs in the U.S. by 2015

 

DEARBORN, Mich., July 23, 2013 – Ford Motor Company will hire an additional 800 salaried employees for a total of more than 3,000 salaried employees in 2013. The new hiring represents a 36 percent increase over the original projection of 2,200 additional salaried jobs announced in January. With only a 2.7 percent attrition rate, the majority of these jobs are new.

 

This salaried hiring initiative is the largest since 2000, and is necessary for Ford to meet surging demand for its products and continue its aggressive global growth. Ford’s U.S. market share is up almost a full percentage point from last year, and the company reported its best June sales since 2006, fueled by share gains on the east and west coasts and surging demand for Ford Escape and Ford F-150.

 

Of the 3,000 new jobs, 2,400 will be technical professionals who will work in product development, manufacturing, quality, purchasing and information technology. Ford is halfway to its goal of hiring the 3,000 salaried employees this year. Felicia Fields, Ford group vice president for human resources, says the company is still looking for people who are “interested in working for a diverse global leader in a huge growth mode” to fill the more than 1,500 positions that remain.

 

“Engineers and technical professionals are in as much demand as our cars, trucks and SUVs,” says Fields. “Global demand and increasing capacity in North America and Asia requires that we aggressively seek out technical professionals in order to continue our growth.”

 

While the 3,000 jobs will be based in the U.S., many of these positions will have a global impact as Ford continues to expand around the world to meet surging demand for its cars, trucks and SUVs. In addition to the 3,000 salaried jobs, Ford hired 1,850 salaried workers last year in the U.S.

 

All-new recruiting campaign

To attract potential employees, Ford today launches an all-new recruiting campaign with a large social media element titled “The Distance Between You and an Amazing Career Has Never Been Shorter.” The campaign encourages candidates to bring their talents to Ford and contribute to serving customers through ingenious solutions.

 

“We created the campaign to align with Ford’s global brand promise and highlight that when you join Ford you will become part of a team already leading the way in imagination and creation,” says Fields. “We want a fresh and innovative image that reflects Ford and what we stand for.”

 

 

The new initiative will engage job candidates on the three major social sites the company uses for recruiting – Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn, as well as the corporate careers website.

 

“The type of talent we want at Ford are often searching for and evaluating potential employers on social media sites, so expanding our recruiting efforts on these channels ensures we have a strong presence throughout their selection process,” says Fields.

 

In addition to the all-new social media campaign, Ford also is increasing its presence on college campuses.

 

“Our salaried hires are matching the growth we have seen on the hourly side,” says Fields. “Ford is very much in a job creation mode right now.”

 

Added to these salaried hires, Ford announced in April it was hiring an additional 2,000 hourly employees at Kansas City Assembly Plant to ensure supply matches demand for the company’s F-150 truck. Last year, Ford announced it would hire more than 6,200 hourly employees across the U.S. to increase capacity to meet demand for its new products. With these latest hourly announcements, Ford has reached 75 percent of its goal to create 12,000 hourly jobs in the U.S. by 2015.

 

“Our message to job candidates is really simple: Bring your talents to Ford and help us build an even greater future,” says Fields.

Mustang. The Legend Official Trailer HD

They can't outrun him. They can't even catch him. But you can. This is a story of a legend that's as real as your local Ford Dealer. In fact, that's exactly where you can catch this Ford Mustang legend -- but you'd better hurry.

Ford Police Interceptor Surveillance Mode

Ford Motor Company's commitment to police office security is taken to the next level through a new system for POlice Interceptors that provides an additional measure of security and mitigates the risk to police officers who are approached -- especially at night -- from the rear while sitting in their police vehicles.

Officer Claudia Kruger from Northville, Michigan demonstrates the new system and her thoughts as an active police officer.

New Technology for Ford Police Interceptor Uses Radar, Backup Camera to Alert, Protect Law Enforcement Officers

• Surveillance mode technology for Ford Police Interceptor introduced to warn and help protect law enforcement officers from unexpected approaches to their vehicle from the rear

• Using existing driver-assist technologies to detect a person approaching Ford Police Interceptor from behind, the system automatically sounds a chime, rolls up the driver’s side window and locks all doors

 

DEARBORN, Mich., July 19, 2013 – A new technology available for Ford Police Interceptor will provide an additional measure of security for law enforcement officers by mitigating their risk of being snuck up on from the rear while working in their vehicles, especially at night.

 

The new surveillance mode technology works by using existing Ford driver-assist technologies – a backup camera, cross-traffic alert and reverse park assist – to give police officers added situational awareness and a first line of defense from potential assailants.

 

When an officer activates the system with the vehicle in park, the backup camera, combined with sensors that detect blind spots and parking obstacles, continually monitors the area to the rear of the vehicle. Surveillance mode can be turned off in situations such as curbside urban settings where pedestrians would constantly set the alarm off.

 

The patent-pending idea is the brainchild of Randy Freiburger, Ford police and ambulance fleet supervisor. Freiburger spent many hours riding along with police officers and saw firsthand the dangers officers face in the course of routine patrols and investigations.

 

“I can tell you from personal experience at night that officer security is a critical concern,” says Freiburger. “Unfortunately, there are people with bad intentions who sneak up on police officers. This system builds upon the Ford Police Interceptor DNA that puts safety and security at the top of the list.”

 

Officers have to write reports, monitor an in-car computer or radar gun, and perform other tasks while sitting in their vehicle. Surveillance mode gives them an extra set of eyes to help guard against threats – especially at night when visibility is compromised.

 

Ford collaborated with Intermotive Inc. of Auburn, Calif., which developed and will sell the surveillance mode system along with several other innovative law enforcement products. The system can be installed at Crown, the facility near Ford’s Chicago Assembly Plant where lights and other accessories are added, or at local upfitters by working directly with Intermotive.

 

Surveillance mode is available for the 2014 Ford Police Interceptor sedan and utility vehicle.

Fusion. Choices Official Trailer HD

They want you to think you don't have a choice. They want you to blend in. To disappear. But there is hope. You do have a choice. Let Ford Fusion show you the way.

Ford Further Improving On-Road Hybrid Fuel Economy and Hiring for Future, as Electrified Vehicle Share Quadruples

• Ford’s share of U.S. electrified vehicle market grows to nearly 16 percent during first half of 2013, a 12-point gain over the same period last year – supporting the company’s nearly 1-point increase in overall U.S. market share, the biggest gain of any full-line automaker

• Ford electrified vehicle sales help drive coastal growth, including the largest retail share increase in California of any brand this year; top trade-in for new Ford C-MAX Hybrid is Toyota Prius, which has seen a 5 percent drop in sales

• Committed to continuously improving fuel economy, Ford is enhancing the on-road fuel economy performance of its 2013-model hybrid vehicles

• Ford also expanding electrification engineering jobs by nearly 50 percent and investing $50 million in electrified vehicle development centers to further its commitment to deliver leading fuel economy across its lineup

 

DEARBORN, Mich., July 16, 2013 – As Ford’s share of the U.S. electrified vehicle market has quadrupled in the past year, the company is announcing improvements to the on-road fuel economy performance of its hybrid vehicles, hiring new engineers, and expanding its research facilities for expected continued growth.

 

This year, Ford’s share of the U.S. electrified vehicle market is up 12 share points to nearly 16 percent, while Toyota’s share is down 8 share points, and more customers are trading in their Priuses for the new Ford C-MAX Hybrid.

 

“Strong consumer acceptance of Ford hybrids shows that our plan to lead in fuel economy across our lineup is working,” said Raj Nair, group vice president, Global Product Development. “Our commitment to deliver great fuel economy in our cars, utilities and trucks is a key reason we are seeing strong growth in coastal markets and with import buyers.”

 

Ford reported electrified vehicle sales of 46,197 units through June – more than 400 percent higher than the same period a year ago. Ford C-MAX Hybrid and Ford C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid are helping drive this growth. C-MAX is drawing new buyers in coastal markets and in Florida and Texas, as Toyota Prius U.S. sales have declined 5 percent. Meanwhile, the Ford brand had the largest retail share increase in California of any brand during the first five months of 2013, based on the latest Polk retail registration data.

 

Last month, 64 percent of C-MAX Hybrid buyers came from non-Ford brands. In fact, the vehicle most traded in for a Ford C-MAX is Toyota Prius.

 

Lincoln MKZ also is bringing new customers into the showroom. Strong demand has led Lincoln to increase the production mix of MKZ Hybrid to 40 percent of MKZ production, up from 20 percent.

 

Electrified vehicles part of larger Ford success story

The company’s strong product lineup has led to Ford’s U.S. market share growing at a faster rate than competitors – gaining nearly a full percentage point through the first half of the year. The Ford brand also achieved the fastest retail share growth of any automotive brand on the coasts, up almost 2.5 percentage points compared with 2008, based on Ford’s analysis of Polk retail registration data.

 

Consumer demand is strong across the company’s lineup – with its fuel-efficient cars, utilities and trucks all showing gains this year.

 

One example is the Ford brand’s coastal retail passenger car share, which is up more than 1 percentage point and growing at about three times the rate of the industry.

 

Another success is in what Ford calls the “super segment” – small cars, midsize sedans and small utilities that have fueled 42 percent of the company’s overall growth since 2008. Ford’s small cars, including Fiesta, Focus and C-MAX, totaled 35,851 sales last month, a 39 percent increase over last year and the company’s best June small car sales in 13 years.

 

Ford Fusion has seen record sales for the first half of the year, and Escape continues to be the best-selling utility in America – posting record sales the last five months.

 

Overall, Ford is on track to be the best-selling brand of utility vehicles for three straight years. Ford F-Series has been America’s best-selling pickup for 36 straight years; it sold more than 367,000 trucks during the first half of the year – a 22 percent increase over last year.

 

Better on-road mileage performance for hybrids

As its electrified vehicle market share grows, Ford also is taking action to improve the on-road fuel economy performance of 2013-model hybrid vehicles in the United States and Canada. Starting in August, the company will make calibration updates designed to improve on-road fuel economy for owners of the 2013 Ford C-MAX Hybrid, 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid and 2013 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid.

 

“We are committed to continuously improving the fuel economy of our vehicles,” said Nair. “We believe these actions will provide our customers enhanced on-road fuel economy satisfaction.”

 

Calibration updates to Ford hybrid vehicles include control system enhancements for a variety of driving conditions on the highway, during short trips and while using the climate control system. Enhancements designed to improve customer satisfaction include:

 

• Increasing the maximum pure electric speed to 85 mph from 62 mph, allowing increased use of electric-only mode on the highway
• Optimizing the use of Active Grille Shutters to reduce aerodynamic drag under more driving and temperature conditions including cold weather, during air conditioner use and when the engine coolant temperature is higher
• Reducing the electric fan speed as a function of coolant temperature to minimize the fan’s energy consumption
• Shortening engine warm-up time by up to 50 percent to enable electric-only driving and engine shutdown at stops sooner after cold starts
• Optimizing the climate control system to minimize use of the air conditioning compressor and reduce the energy used in cold weather operation

“Just as individual mileage can vary based on driving styles and environmental conditions, we expect fuel economy improvements will differ from customer to customer depending on individual driving habits,” said Nair. “Customers should see the most improvement at highway speeds, during air conditioner use and operation in colder climates.”

 

Expanding for the future

This year, Ford also will expand its electrification engineering team by nearly 50 percent, growing to 500 salaried employees. Further, the company is investing an additional $50 million in electrified product development and testing centers in Dearborn.

 

Ford will double electrification battery-testing capabilities by the end of the year – to a total of 160 individual battery-test cells – helping to speed hybrid and electric vehicle development by as much as 25 percent.

 

“This investment in new engineers and expanded facilities helps us prepare for growth,” said Nair. “All of us at Ford remain absolutely committed to offering customers a choice of leading fuel-efficient vehicles – from EcoBoost^®-powered gasoline engines and hybrids to plug-in hybrids and electrified vehicles.”

Ford Provides Energy-Efficient Technology to Another American Home in Commitment to Sustainable Living

• MyEnergi Lifestyle Retrofit, the Ford-led initiative designed to showcase how a typical American family can affordably move to an energy-efficient lifestyle, concludes after a month of competition and thousands of contest entries

• Winner to take home a 2013 Ford C-MAX Energi along with new Whirlpool brand appliances, SunPower solar system and other products designed for energy-efficient living

• The Sattler family of Parker, Colo., won the nationwide contest on the strength of their commitment to live more sustainably

• Through the MyEnergi Lifestyle retrofit of their home, the Sattlers can expect to see up to a 60 percent reduction in energy costs and a 55 percent reduction in CO₂

 

DEARBORN, Mich., July 17, 2013 – The winners of the Ford-led MyEnergi Lifestyle Retrofit contest – designed to showcase how a typical American family can affordably move to an energy-efficient lifestyle – are Lindsay and Ben Sattler of Parker, Colo.

 

Ben Sattler teaches alternative fuels and home energy efficiency courses to inner-city school children, while Lindsay ensures the Sattlers keep a sustainable home life. As the second winners of a MyEnergi Lifestyle retrofit, the Sattlers will receive a grand prize package enabling them to integrate today’s plug-in vehicle technology, smart appliances and solar energy into their home to reduce their electricity bills and carbon emissions. In May, Susan Berry of Ventura, Calif., won a MyEnergi Lifestyle giveaway on the “Katie” show.

 

“Ford is making yet another American home more energy efficient as part of its global commitment to a better world,” says Mike Tinskey, global director of vehicle electrification and infrastructure for Ford. “By combining the latest technologies such as the Ford C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid, energy-efficient appliances and renewable energy generation, the Sattler family should see up to a 60 percent reduction in energy costs and a 55 percent reduction in CO₂.”

 

Leaders in the home appliance, renewable energy and power management industries – including Eaton, SunPower, Whirlpool, Infineon and Nest Labs – are collaborating with Ford on the initiative.

 

“Winning the MyEnergi Lifestyle Retrofit contest is truly life-changing for us,” says Lindsay Sattler. “Now, we have the freedom to bless others with the money we’re saving, and more opportunities to live out what my husband teaches to his students.”

 

Thousands of families entered the nationwide contest. The Sattlers won on the strength of an essay Lindsay wrote detailing the family’s passion for sustainability and what they do to live an energy-efficient lifestyle. “We are always trying to find new ways we can use less energy and save more money to make life a little more enjoyable,” Lindsay wrote.

 

Energy-saving technologies have advanced as Americans’ energy use has increased.In 1930, the average American home used 500 kilowatt-hours of electricity; today, the figure is 11,000 – an increase of 2,100 percent. The MyEnergi Lifestyle initiative demonstrates how a typical American family can optimize its energy output.

 

MyEnergi Lifestyle works by leveraging technology so key energy-consuming devices in a home use less energy, while also shifting energy usage to less expensive periods.

 

The Sattlers have won a 2013 Ford C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid vehicle; Eaton solar inverter, solar-ready load center with surge protection, electric vehicle supply equipment and generator; five-kilowatt SunPower system; Nest learning thermostat; Powerhouse dynamic eMonitor; Whirlpool brand smart dishwasher, smart washer and dryer, smart refrigerator and hybrid heat pump water heater.

 

If every home in the country were to adopt a MyEnergi Lifestyle like the Sattlers are doing, it would be the equivalent of taking all the homes in California, New York and Texas off the power grid. That’s 32 million homes.

 

Ford’s new C-MAX Energi is America’s most affordable plug-in hybrid vehicle with a starting price of $29,995, and the Sattlers are excited for the opportunity to drive it. “Having a hybrid vehicle is my husband’s dream,” Lindsay says.

Escape. The Heist Official Trailer HD

Two hot dames with technology on their side plan the perfect heist -- picture perfect in fact. See how the Ford Escape makes a clean and very efficient getaway.

C-MAX. The Aliens Official Trailer HD

Aliens search for the ultimate technology and higher intelligence. Did they find it in the Ford C-MAX?

F-150 SVT Raptor at the Nurburgring

The F-150 SVT Raptor took on Nurburgring. Check it out!!

Super Duty.® Toughness has a Name Official Trailer HD

A classic story about everyman's struggle against the odds. See how strength, toughness and determination win out and make you the hero with the Ford Super Duty®.

Fiesta. The Surfer Official Trailer HD

1,000 miles separate a landlocked barney from his dream of catching the coastal big ones. Does he washout or does the Ford Fiesta help him reach his goal?

F-150. Super Hero Official Trailer HD

A city under siege and defenseless against the onslaught from a giant robotic creature. Will our super hero show up in time to save the city? Is there any doubt? Watch to find out if the Ford F-150 saves the day.

Focus. The Break Up Official Trailer HD

Breaking up isn't always easy -- especially when the significant other is, shall we say, "long in the teeth." Let the Ford Focus show you how to shake off the heartbreak.

Mustang. The Legend Official Trailer HD

They can't outrun him. They can't even catch him. But you can. This is a story of a legend that's as real as your local Ford Dealer. In fact, that's exactly where you can catch this Ford Mustang legend -- but you'd better hurry.

2013 Ford Fusion -- #FordAnd

A successful businessman gets in his new Fusion and prepares for the day. But since his Fusion is stylish and has EcoBoost, he's not restricted to just going to work. He's the envy of his passengers and he goes to sporting events with his buddies and on multiple dates and is able to take joyrides and is admired by kids on his block. Only Ford gives him EcoBoost fuel economy AND a whole lot more. That's why Ford is an AND company.

Ford's Advanced Prototyping, Personalization and Low-Volume Production Technology

Ford engineers are developing a highly flexible, first-of-its-kind, patented technology to rapidly form sheet metal parts for low-volume production applications. Once fully developed, the technology (Ford Freeform Fabrication Technology, or F3T) will allow for lower costs and ultrafast delivery times for prototypes -- within three business days versus conventional methods that take anywhere from two to six months.

Happy 4th of July!

Have a Happy and Safe 4th of July!!

2013 Ford Escape -- #FordAnd

A family man admires his new Escape as he prepares to take a drive. But since his capable Escape comes equipped with EcoBoost, he's able to do more than just drive from point A to point B. He's about to camp and take his wife shopping and hit the links with his friends and that's just the beginning. Only Ford gives him EcoBoost fuel economy AND a whole lot more. That's why Ford is an AND company.

U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Edition Ford Mustang Celebrates Aviation Team’s 60th Anniversary, Supports Young Eagles

• One-of-a-kind 2014 Ford Mustang design inspired by 60th anniversary of acclaimed U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds to be sold at charity auction Aug. 1 at EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wis.
• Sale will benefit the EAA Young Eagles organization: Ford auction vehicles have collectively raised nearly $2 million in recent years to support Young Eagles
• This one-of-a-kind car is VIN 0001 of the 2014 model year and boasts unique body treatments above and below the vehicle

 

 

DEARBORN, Mich., July 1, 2013 – The engineering and design teams at Ford Motor Company have produced a unique U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Edition 2014 Ford Mustang GT. This car will be donated by Ford to be sold at the Gathering of Eagles charity event on Thursday, Aug. 1 during the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) AirVenture Oshkosh 2013 – the World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration.

 

All proceeds from the car donation and sale will benefit the EAA Young Eagles program, which has provided free introductory flights to more than 1.6 million young people since 1992, helping inspire and motivate the next generation of leaders, aviators and innovators.

 

Ford is the exclusive automotive sponsor of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, held July 29 through Aug. 4 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wis.

 

“The dedication and excellence displayed by the United States Air Force Thunderbirds are qualities we also celebrate at Ford,” said Edsel B. Ford II, a member of the Ford board of directors. “With this year’s beautiful U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Edition Mustang, we’ve captured the recognizable symbols of their stature and paired it with the innovation our Ford design and engineering teams build into all of our products.

 

“Through this project,” Ford added, “we take great pride in continuing our support for EAA and the Young Eagles organization.”

 

This unique U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Ford Mustang GT celebrates and commemorates the 60^th anniversary of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the fastest, multi-jet flight demonstration team in the world. Thunderbirds fly the F-16 Falcon, known for its glossy red, white and blue paint scheme.

 

This one-of-a-kind car is VIN 0001. The design of the modified 2014 Mustang GT 5.0-liter glass-roof coupe exudes a creative connection to the Thunderbirds, with a contemporary flair for the serious collector.

 

The exterior will showcase a custom brilliant white paint with red and blue accents, as well as markings and logos, tying it to the Thunderbirds’ F-16 Falcon aircraft. The unique treatment includes wide body modifications and a handcrafted and painted “belly pan” that emulates the F-16 Thunderbird appearance. TS Designs handcrafted the front and rear wide body elements, Creations n’ Chrome crafted the unique belly pan – plus applied the paint and markings – and Forgiato created custom 22-inch wheels to further differentiate this Mustang from anything else on the road.

 

Unique interior details of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Edition Ford Mustang GT include a modified navigation screen, instrument cluster and rear seat-delete. The car’s Recaro^® seats include embroidered Thunderbirds elements. Additional features include unique sill plates and puddle lamps that project the aircraft silhouette when the doors open.

 

Ford Racing components will boost the performance to an extraordinary level. With the addition of a Ford Racing supercharger, suspension handling pack and Brembo^® brakes, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Edition Mustang will exude class, power and performance.

 

Ford Design Manager Melvin Betancourt and Mustang Chief Nameplate Engineer Dave Pericak led the design and engineering teams that developed the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Edition Mustang GT.

 

The Young Eagles auction is part of the EAA Gathering of Eagles gala. The Gathering of Eagles annually draws more than 1,000 aviation enthusiasts in support of Young Eagles and other EAA programs that inspire young people to become engineers, aviators, astronauts, scientists and innovators – the aviation pioneers of tomorrow.

 

“Ford is a longtime, committed sponsor of EAA and AirVenture, bringing value to those who make Oshkosh the pinnacle of their aviation year,” said Jack Pelton, EAA Chairman. “These specialty vehicles reflect the depth of Ford’s commitment and allow EAA to provide support to its valuable programs and dedicated members in helping us grow the next generation of aviators.”

 

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Edition joins five other one-of-a-kind Mustangs created by the Ford design and engineering teams for the EAA Young Eagles auction in recent years, each generating excitement among aviation and automotive enthusiasts alike. Ford vehicles sold at auction during past EAA AirVenture events have collectively raised nearly $1.9 million to support Young Eagles.

 

The unique vehicles produced by Ford in support of EAA Young Eagles include the Mustang AV8R, with cues from the F-22 “Raptor,” which in 2008 helped introduce the glass-roof canopy and delivered a record auction contribution of $500,000. In 2009 Ford’s AV-X10 “Dearborn Doll” Mustang was crafted in honor of World War II aircraft. In 2010 two automotive icons – the late Carroll Shelby, a former U.S. Air Force flight instructor, and Jack Roush, longtime P-51 pilot – collaborated for the first time to create the SR-71 “Blackbird” Mustang inspired by the legendary reconnaissance jet. The “Blue Angels” Mustang in 2011 celebrated 100 years of United States naval aviation, and last year’s “Red Tails” Mustang paid homage to the Tuskegee Airmen, the courageous squadron of P-51 Mustang pilots who were the United States’ first African American military airmen.

 

During EAA AirVenture, Ford will offer attendees access to the latest advances in automobile technology and feature exciting attractions and fan favorites at the Ford Hangar on the grounds of Wittman Regional Airport. Ford activities include top-tier entertainment and interactive components that will add excitement for the hundreds of thousands of aviation fans in attendance.

History Haven: The Ford Archives -- Ford Mustang Countdown

When historians document the history of Ford Motor Company and the Mustang, one of the places they look to for information is the company archives. Within the Ford Archives, Dean Weber and his team regularly catalog and retrieve millions of documents, images and videos in one of the oldest corporate archives in America. The archives contain a vast treasure trove of Mustang design drawings, specifications, manuals, brochures, photographs, commercials and more.