Ford EcoBoost Police Interceptors Repeat as Quickest Accelerating in State Testing in Michigan, California

• Ford EcoBoost^® Police Interceptor sedan repeats top performance in Michigan State Police and Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department testing of 2015 model, retaining its title as quickest-accelerating pursuit vehicle
• Ford EcoBoost Police Interceptor utility vehicle acceleration faster than competition’s all-new utility vehicle and all base V6 competitors
• Ford Police Interceptor maintains segment sales leadership for 17 consecutive years

Ford Motor Company, manufacturer of the best-selling police vehicles since 1996, trumped the competition in recent instrumented acceleration testing conducted separately by the Michigan State Police and Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department.

The EcoBoost^®-powered Ford Police Interceptor sedan bested all V8-equipped competitors’ sedans in testing by both Michigan and California authorities, while Ford Police Interceptor utility with EcoBoost out-accelerated the competition’s all-new V8-equipped utility and all base V6-powered sedans.

“We are thrilled to repeat as having best acceleration,” said Arie Groeneveld, Ford Taurus, Explorer and Police Interceptor chief engineer. “Quickly closing the distance between an officer and a target vehicle is key to safely avoiding high-speed pursuits. Our police vehicles are built around officer safety, and outstanding performance is yet another demonstration of that commitment.”

Michigan State Police testing results

Preliminary results of Michigan State Police testing show the 2015 Ford Police Interceptor sedan with all-wheel drive is fastest of the fast – posting a 0-60 mph time of 5.85 seconds, compared to 6.31 seconds for a competing 5.7-liter V8 sedan with all-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is standard on Ford Police Interceptor sedan, optional on the competing model.

The Ford EcoBoost-powered sedan also topped a competing 6.0-liter V8-equipped sedan, which clocked a 0-60 mph time of 6.17 seconds.

“Ford Police Interceptors are the only police vehicles to be pursuit-tested for three years in a row by both Michigan State Police and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department with traction control and electronic stability control safety systems fully engaged,” said Jonathan Honeycutt, marketing manager, Ford police vehicles. “Our safety philosophy entails testing our vehicles as our agencies will drive them.”

Ford also took top honors in Michigan State Police 0-100 mph testing: Police Interceptor sedan turned a 14.19-second 0-100 mph time, while a competing 5.7-liter sedan posted 15.63 seconds and a rival 6.0-liter sedan took 14.69 seconds.

The results are similar for utility vehicles. Ford Police Interceptor utility with standard all-wheel drive hit 60 mph in 6.55 seconds and 100 mph in 16.13 seconds. A competing all-new utility vehicle powered by a 5.3-liter V8 posted a 0-60 mph time of 7.31 seconds and a 0-100 mph time of 18.99 seconds.

Additionally, Ford Police Interceptor utility repeated with fastest lap time around Grattan Raceway among police utility vehicles.

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department testing results

Results from Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department tests are even more dominant for Ford Police Interceptor. For the first time, the department conducted testing with a “key on and drive” policy – meaning stability and traction control settings were in default mode as when the vehicles are first turned on. 

Ford Police Interceptor sedan repeated as the quickest-accelerating vehicle overall in Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department tests, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds. The EcoBoost-equipped Ford Police Interceptor utility not only out-accelerated its competition, but was quicker at 0-60 mph than all base model (V6-powered) sedans.

At Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, California, where testing was conducted, Ford Police Interceptor sedan with EcoBoost placed first overall, posting a fastest lap of 1:20.47. The EcoBoost-equipped Police Interceptor utility also placed first and posted best-in-class stopping distances.

Through October 2014, the most recent data available, Ford has commanded more than half of the new police vehicle market – 56 percent – hitting a high of 66 percent market share for July.
 
For more information on Ford Police Interceptor vehicles, visit www.FordPoliceInterceptor.com.

Ford and Thor Livin Lite Team to License Ford-Branded Recreational Products for All-New 2015 F-150

• Recreational vehicle builder Thor Livin Lite and Ford have agreed to license Ford-branded recreational products for the all-new 2015 F-150 pickup, the smartest, toughest, most capable F-150 ever
• Thor Livin Lite worked with Ford designers to adopt design cues from the aluminum-bodied F-150 into the aluminum campers
• The 2015 F-150 is up to 700 pounds lighter than the 2014 truck, and Thor Livin Lite campers are typically 30 percent lighter than the competition – this weight-saving combination is designed to improve fuel efficiency for RV customers

Looking to spend some time exploring the countryside in the all-new 2015 F-150? Now it’s possible to sleep comfortably inside a Ford-branded camper, thanks to recreational vehicle builder Thor Livin Lite.

Thor Livin Lite and Ford have agreed to license Ford-branded recreational products for the all-new 2015 F-150 pickup – the smartest, toughest, most capable F-150 ever.

“I can’t tell you how excited we are to work with a company as prestigious as Ford and bring their iconic brand name back into the RV industry,” said Scott Tuttle, president of Thor Livin Lite. “Ford believes enough in our unique aluminum construction to allow us to carry the ‘Built Ford Tough’ label, which says a lot.”

Teaming with Ford designers

Beginning in 2013, Thor Livin Lite began working with Ford designers to adopt design cues from the aluminum-body F-150 into their aluminum campers.

The 2015 F-150 is up to 700 pounds lighter than the 2014 truck, and Thor Livin Lite campers are typically 30 percent lighter than the competition – this weight-saving combination of unique, aluminum body is designed to improve fuel efficiency for RV customers.

The debut Ford-branded camper model design will appear next month at the National RV Trade Show in Louisville, Kentucky. Thor Livin Lite plans to release other models in time for sale in 2015. The lineup of Ford-branded RVs will include tent campers, travel trailers, truck campers, toy haulers and fifth wheels for sale through Thor Livin Lite dealers.
 
In the 1970s, Ford had a dedicated RV division with a team of engineers and marketing professionals. Today, Thor Livin Lite licenses Ford trademarks and is fully responsible for designing, engineering and manufacturing Ford-branded recreational products with input from Ford Design.

Into the Arctic | 2015 F-150 Truck | You Test: Episode #4

See what happens when the new 2015 F-150 tows at maximum payload over the Dempster Highway – a rough, desloate, 900-mile stretch of gravel road that goes through the Arctic Circle.

Geweke Commercial Truck & Fleet Sales Would Like to Wish You and Your Family a Safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

The #Holidaze: The Best Gift Of All

So what if the last roll of wrapping paper is ruined. I mean, look at that face!

A Road Trip with a View

Ride along with Elizabeth down memory lane as she thinks back on the trips she took with her family and how those vacations inspired her love of travel.

Car and Driver Magazine Names All-New Ford Mustang GT to Its 10Best List

•  Ford Mustang has appeared on Car and Driver’s 10Best list nine times since 1983
•  With three available engines, each producing more than 300 horsepower, and a new independent rear suspension, the 2015 model is the best all-around Mustang ever built
• Car and Driver editorial staff compares driving the 2015 Mustang through aggressive turns to “wearing wheels”; reminds readers that “driving a great car can be play”

The all-new 2015 Ford Mustang GT has been named to Car and Driver’s 10Best cars list for 2015 – the ninth time Mustang has made the list since the award’s inception 33 years ago.

Car and Driver’s 10Best list recognizes the best new cars available in the United States for under $80,000. Mustang has been honored four of the last five years.

“Dive into a series of challenging turns in the Mustang and you're not driving a car, you're wearing wheels,” Car and Driver commented.  “It reminds us that driving a great car can be play, something that even grownups enjoy.”

“It’s a huge honor to have the Mustang GT recognized on Car and Driver’s 10Best list,” said Dave Pericak, Mustang chief engineer. “The substantial amount of time and effort our engineering team put into Mustang has paid off; we’re hopeful that the car has a substantial presence on the 10Best list for years to come.”

When Mustang made its first appearance on Car and Driver’s 10Best list in 1983, editors praised the pony car’s performance and styling, saying, “[E]verybody we know who’s bought one thinks it’s the greatest thing since draft beer.” 

“With the vast improvements we’ve made to the 2015 Mustang GT’s powertrain, suspension and styling, we hope Car and Driver editors and our customers feel the same way this time around,” said Pericak.

50 years of Ford Mustang

More than 9.2 million Mustangs have been sold since the car’s 1964 debut.

With more options to choose from, there is a Mustang to fit any lifestyle. The upgraded V8 in Mustang GT – now delivering 435 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque – is joined by a 300-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 and an all-new 2.3-liter EcoBoost^® engine that brings state-of-the-art technology to Mustang.

The 2.3-liter EcoBoost uses direct injection, variable cam timing and a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver the performance Mustang drivers expect, with an output of 310 horsepower and 320 lb.-ft. of torque.
 
In addition to being the most-liked vehicle on Facebook, with 8 million likes, the all-new Mustang is turning on U.S. dealer lots in an average of six days.

Ford performance: the all-new Shelby® GT350® Mustang

Performance is our business and the story continues with the introduction of the all-new Shelby GT350 Mustang, one of the most iconic performance Mustang nameplates of all time. The Shelby GT350 Mustang is a thoroughbred capable of tackling the world’s most challenging roads and racetracks.

All-New Ford F-150 Wins Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com Best Buy Awards in Overall Best Buy and Truck Best Buy

• Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com, The Trusted Resource^® for car buyers, named the all-new 2015 Ford F-150 Overall Best Buy and Truck Best Buy in its inaugural Best Buy awards
• All-new Ford F-150 – the toughest, smartest, most capable F-150 ever – beat out all other manufacturers’ 2015 trucks now on sale
•  F-150 can tow up to 1,100 more pounds and haul up to 530 more pounds; 2015 model’s fuel economy ratings projected to be at least 5 percent and up to 20 percent higher than current lineup (EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings will be announced later this month)

The all-new 2015 Ford F-150 is the big winner of Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com Best Buy awards – earning both Overall Best Buy and Truck Best Buy prizes. 

Kelley Blue Book’s Best Buy awards is an all-new, premier awards program designed to provide a significant service to American new-car buyers by identifying the cream of the crop of all available vehicles for a specific model year.

“These awards from Kelley Blue Book reflect our continuing commitment to truck leadership and building the best trucks for our customers,” said Joe Hinrichs, Ford president, The Americas. “The all-new F-150 sets new standards in durability, capability, technology and efficiency, and I’m proud our new truck has been recognized by the automotive experts at KBB.”

The all-new Ford F-150 is the toughest, smartest, most capable F-150 ever. F-150 can tow up to 1,100 more pounds and haul up to 530 more pounds, and will have fuel economy projected to be at least 5 percent and up to 20 percent higher than the current lineup. (EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings will be announced later this month.)

“The 2015 Ford F-150 is a revolutionary vehicle in a segment in which even evolutionary change is viewed with skepticism,” said Jack R. Nerad, executive editor, Kelley Blue Book. “The bold decision to lighten the vehicle’s structure radically was not just of value in itself, but also was the key enabler to an innovative line of powertrains that will result in significantly better capability than the prior F-150. What so impressed us at Kelley Blue Book was the fact that the new technologies incorporated into the 2015 F-150 all offer obvious and substantial consumer benefits. We believe that is the key reason the new F-150 will cement its place as the No. 1 vehicle in its segment.”

Award criteria

The award finalists were chosen on a set of criteria intended to identify overall vehicle quality and value, based both on proprietary Kelley Blue Book metrics and the expert evaluations of the KBB.com editorial staff. The awards are the culmination of a yearlong regimen of expert vehicle evaluation and testing of nearly every new vehicle available in America, along with analysis of a broad swath of vehicle-related data, including vehicle pricing/transaction prices, five-year cost-to-own data (which includes depreciation, insurance, maintenance, financing, fuel, fees and taxes for new cars), consumer reviews and ratings, and vehicle sales information.

• The 2015 Ford F-150 has won the following awards and accolades:
• Kelley Blue Book Best Buy – Truck
• Kelley Blue Book Best Buy – Overall
• Popular Science Automotive Grand Award Winner – Best of What’s New
• Texas Auto Writers Association Truck of Texas
• Texas Auto Writers Association Luxury Pickup Truck
• Texas Auto Writers Association Full-Size Pickup Truck
• Texas Auto Writers Association Best Technology Feature – high-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloy
• New England Motor Press Association – Yankee Cup
  

ICON50: Ford and Zagat Celebrate 50 Years of Mustang, Its Influence on Pop Culture, and the Power of Food in America

• Celebrating 50 years of Mustang, Ford Motor Company and Zagat name 10 teams of innovative chefs who embody the spirit of the iconic pony car while shaping the future of the culinary scene in America
• ICON⁵⁰ culinary innovators include April Bloomfield, David Bouley, Roy Choi, Dominique Crenn, Curtis Duffy, Nick Kokonas and Grant Achatz, Barbara Lynch, Ken Oringer and Jamie Bissonnette, Nancy Silverton, and Mike Solomonov
• Launched in September, ICON⁵⁰ unites the all-new Ford Mustang with cultural experts from a variety of fields. Along with Zagat, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, ESPN The Magazine and Mashable are working to identify cultural drivers in music, sports, and technology and design

Ford Motor Company and Zagat are working together to name 10 teams of up-and-coming chefs who are shaping the future of the culinary scene in America. This is the second installment of the ICON⁵⁰ program – an ongoing celebration of the 50th anniversary of Ford Mustang and its influence on popular culture.

From discovering exciting new eateries located off the beaten path and fresh tastes that awaken the palate, together, Mustang and food have the power to push boundaries and encourage a sense of adventure and exploration, unveiling aspects of culture that inspire and delight. In collaboration with Zagat, the leading provider of consumer-generated restaurant reviews, Ford is inviting culinary enthusiasts to destinations around the country that are making their mark on America’s food culture.

“For 35 years, Zagat has inspired us to go out and explore new restaurants and culinary destinations, helping to shape the food map of America,” said Melanie Banker, Mustang brand manager, Ford Motor Company. “This sense of freedom and exploration is synonymous with Ford Mustang, and what the car has represented over the last five decades. We’re excited to be working with Zagat on this unique program taking a look at the future of the culinary scene, and we invite Americans to get a taste of what’s next.”

ICON50 chefs are:

• April Bloomfield of The Spotted Pig, New York • David Bouley of Bouley Restaurant, New York
• Roy Choi of Kogi Korean BBQ Truck, Los Angeles
• Dominique Crenn of Atelier Crenn, San Francisco
• Curtis Duffy of Grace, Chicago
• Nick Kokonas and Grant Achatz of Alinea and Next, Chicago
• Barbara Lynch of No. 9 Park, Boston
• Ken Oringer and Jamie Bissonnette of Toro and Coppa, Boston
• Nancy Silverton of Mozza, Los Angeles
• Mike Solomonov of Zahav, Philadelphia


“There was a time when fine dining meant eating on china and crisp, white tablecloths, but that’s no longer the case,” said Tim Zagat, cofounder of Zagat. “From local taquerias to food trucks, some of the best food can be found in the most unexpected places. We’re thrilled to be working with Ford to inspire people to hit the road and explore what’s next in the culinary industry.”

Launched in September, ICON⁵⁰ will continue over the next several months, working to identify cultural drivers helping to define a new generation in music, food, sports, and technology and design. The unique program encourages Americans to rekindle their sense of adventure behind the wheel of the all-new Mustang. Along with Zagat, experts from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, ESPN The Magazine and Mashable are curating a list of 50 innovators and designing themed driving routes across America. The next list and driving route will be released with ESPN The Magazine in early 2015, focused on sports.

Cooking up what’s next

From the release of Julia Child’s “Mastering the Art of French Cooking” in the 1960s to the birth of the farm-to-table movement in the 2000s, the food industry is continuously turning new corners. Through experimentation and creativity, chefs are pushing culinary boundaries and reinventing the dining experience. According to a recent survey commissioned by Ford as part of ICON⁵⁰, more than half of Americans are looking to experiment when it comes to what they eat, with 55 percent believing they would be among the first to try new food.

Zagat and Ford have developed a foodie road map to encourage consumers to hit the open road and try new experiences. The map outlines two unique driving routes featuring must-try culinary destinations.

Along the East Coast, the route begins in Boston, with stops at restaurants offering a range of unique styles and experiences, from rustic-Americana cuisine to “haute backyard” dining. The route then turns south – through New York City, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. – then heads for Chicago in the Midwest before turning south again, to New Orleans.

From San Francisco to Los Angeles, the route along the West Coast offers delicious dishes from bakeries, cantina-style dining and more. An interactive map featuring this route and key points of interest can be found at http://www.fordmustangicon50map.appspot.com/#.

Why Mustang is a pop culture icon

Early on, Mustang’s unique combination of style, performance and affordability established an entirely new class of sports car. Its impact goes well beyond the more than 9.4 million cars sold in its 50 years of continuous production.

On sale now, the 2015 Ford Mustang is the most advanced pony car yet, featuring an all-new, sophisticated design and a host of innovative new technologies and connectivity systems.
Next year for the first time, Mustang will go on sale globally to customers in more than 120 markets, including right-hand-drive markets.

Popular Science: Ford F-150 named 'Grand Winner'

The 2015 Ford F-150 is Grand Winner in the automotive category in Popular Science’s 2014 “Best of What’s New” honors. The all-new F-150 is the reinvention of America’s favorite pickup – the toughest, smartest, most capable and efficient model ever, with 11 class-exclusive features. F-150 can claim the best towing and payload capability among full-size pickups, towing 12,200 pounds and hauling 3,300 pounds, all with improved fuel efficiency thanks to 700 pounds in weight savings over the 2014 model. Click here for more information on the Popular Science award.

Quick Lane Tire & Auto Center, Ford Motor Company and Feeding America Team Up to Tackle Hunger

• Quick Lane Tire & Auto Center, Ford Motor Company and Feeding America^® are joining together for a text-to-donate and online campaign to help solve hunger, which affects one in six Americans
• Ford is providing up to $250,000 in matching donations, part of $1.3 million in hunger-related assistance the company and its charitable arm, Ford Fund, are contributing this fall
• Campaign culminates at Ford Motor Company’s Quick Lane Bowl, Dec. 26, at Ford Field in Detroit

Quick Lane Tire & Auto Center, Ford Motor Company and Feeding America^® are teaming up this fall to tackle an issue that affects one in six Americans: hunger.

Starting Nov. 14, supporters can make a $10 donation to Feeding America by texting MEAL to 50555*. The campaign will culminate at the Quick Lane Bowl, which takes place at 4:30 p.m. EST, Dec. 26, at Ford Field in Detroit. Ford’s Quick Lane Tire & Auto Center is title sponsor for this inaugural college football game, which airs nationally on ESPN.

With a network that services all 50 states, including 200 local food banks and 60,000 pantries and meal programs, Feeding America is the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization. A $10 donation helps Feeding America provide 100 meals on behalf of member food banks.

Ford will provide up to $250,000 in matching donations, ensuring a minimum donation of $150,000. The donation is part of $1.3 million in financial support, grants, vehicles and other assistance Ford Motor Company and its philanthropic arm, Ford Fund, are contributing to hunger-relief organizations this fall.

“Each year, 49 million Americans – including 16 million children – struggle with hunger,” said Jim Vella, president, Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services. “We are proud to use the national stage of the inaugural Quick Lane Bowl to build on Ford’s long history of addressing hunger issues.”

Each donation will appear on a person’s phone bill through the respective mobile service carrier. People can make multiple text donations, as well as donate any denomination online at www.feedingamerica.org/QuickLane. Donations are tax deductible.

“Ford Motor Company has been a long-standing partner in the fight against hunger,” said Nancy Curby, vice president of corporate partnerships at Feeding America. “At a time when many of us will be surrounded by our own families, this campaign with Quick Lane and Ford Motor Company provides a simple, easy opportunity for everyone to help provide meals for families in need this holiday season”.

Ford will promote the Feeding America campaign through its more than 700 Quick Lane Tire & Auto Centers across the United States. Operated by Ford dealers, Quick Lane offers fast, no-appointment, routine vehicle maintenance such as oil and filter changes, light repair services including brake repair, and tire replacements on all vehicle makes and models.

The Detroit Lions will work to encourage fans to support the campaign as part of their ongoing hunger-relief and wellness programs with Ford. The Lions are hosting the 2014 Quick Lane Bowl, which features teams from the Big Ten Conference and Atlantic Coast Conference.

The Most Powerful Super Duty Ever® | 2015 Ford Super Duty® | Built Ford ...

See what makes the 2015 Ford Super Duty the most powerful Super Duty ever - delivering over 31,200 lbs. of towing power, for maximum towing capacity.

How does it do it? With an available second-generation 6.7L Power Stroke® V8 Turbo Diesel. 440 horsepower. 860 lb.-ft. of torque. And it gives you best-in-class fuel economy to go with it.

Plus, it features:
• Larger turbocharger for greater on-demand performance
• New fuel pump and injectors for more power and reduced emissions
• New temperature control system for enhanced turbo efficiency and performance

*Class is Full-Size Pickups over 8,500 lbs. GVWR.
**Based on Ford simulated city-suburban drive-cycle tests of comparably equipped 2015 Ford and 2011-2013 competitive models, consistent with SAE Standard J1321.

Building the Future Tough: The All-New F-150

Production of the all-new, 2015 Ford F-150 - the toughest, smartest, most capable and most efficient F-150 ever - started November 11, 2014, at the historic Ford Rouge Center. In just eight weeks, its manufacturing facilities were transformed to build a better truck for Ford customers, featuring an all-new high-strength steel frame and a high-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloy body and bed.

Surfers Healing Makes Big Differences Through Small Acts of Teaching | Go Further | Everyday Heroes

Izzy Paskowitz started Surfers Healing camp with the mission of harnessing the power of the ocean to enrich the lives of kids with autism. In 2013, they taught over 4,500 kids to surf. Learn more at http://www.surfershealing.org/.

“Wigged Out” Helps Women with Breast Cancer Feel at Home| Go Further | Everyday Heroes

Based on her own unhappy experience while shopping for wigs during chemotherapy, survivor Tina Herold opened a wig shop to provide a safe, welcoming and optimistic atmosphere for cancer patients.

2014 SEMA Award - Hottest Car - Ford Mustang

2015 Ford Mustang received SEMA Award top honors in the Hottest Car Category.

The SEMA Award winners represent the models that industry experts—the SEMA Show exhibitors—most often feature in their booths as the hottest rides for the enthusiast market.

Ford Racing Introduces King Cobra Parts Package for 2015 Ford Mustang GT

• New “King Cobra” parts package 2015 Mustang GT concept unveiled at SEMA Show.
• King Cobra package can be replicated by any Mustang owner with the help of Ford Racing’s extensive parts catalog.
• Highlights Ford Racing’s first performance packages available for the 2015 Mustang. It is equipped with Ford Racing’s “Drag Pack,” “Handling Pack,” and “Super Pack” supercharger kit that helps the King Cobra produce 600+ horsepower.

Ford Racing is excited to introduce a special 2015 Mustang GT built exclusively with Ford Racing performance parts.  Named the “King Cobra,” there is no question this custom machine has some serious bite.

Built to be a high-performance street-and-drag strip car, the King Cobra can be replicated by any Mustang owner with the help of Ford Racing’s extensive parts catalog.

“At Ford Racing, we like to push cars to their absolute limit,” said Jamie Allison, director, Ford Racing.  “This is something we have been doing for 113 years and why we were so excited to get our hands on the all-new, 2015 Mustang.

“We wanted Mustang enthusiasts to be able to open up the Ford Racing parts catalog and get one of everything and see what they could get.  We think the King Cobra package is it.  But none of this great work would be possible if Team Mustang had not built the best production Mustang yet.”

This one-off concept is a showcase for Ford Racing’s first performance packages available for the 2015 Mustang. It is equipped with Ford Racing’s “Drag Pack,” “Handling Pack,” and “Super Pack” supercharger kit that helps the King Cobra produce 600+ horsepower.

The Drag Pack includes heavy-duty half shafts, and a rear sub-frame kit with pre-installed high-performance bushings to improve traction and put optimum power to the ground under hard acceleration.

The Handling Pack lowers the car approximately one inch with front and rear lowering springs – the front springs on pre-assembled struts. The Handling Pack also includes rear shocks and a stabilizer bar kit.

The key component of the Super Pack is a 2.3L Twin Vortices Series (TVS) supercharger assembly, co-developed and co-branded by Ford Racing and ROUSH Performance. Accompanying the supercharger is a six-rib belt drive system, intake manifold, electronic throttle body, air inlet system, fuel rail and high-flow fuel injectors, complete air-to-liquid intercooler system and the Ford Racing performance computer calibration.

Ford Racing recently took an early version of King Cobra package on a 2015 Mustang to Michigan’s Milan Dragway, where the car proved its performance capabilities with a stunning quarter-mile elapsed time of 10.97 seconds.

Ford Racing chose the name King Cobra for this parts package because of its long association with high-performance Ford vehicles. The King Cobra moniker was first introduced by Carroll Shelby in 1963 for the high-performance Cooper Monaco sports racing cars he built with mid-mounted, 289-cubic-inch Ford V8 engines.

Ford used the name again in 1970 for an aerodynamic prototype NASCAR stock car, based on the Ford Torino which never raced. The most well-known King Cobra was an option package that could be equipped to a 1978 Mustang II.   This model was the first Mustang to sport the “5.0” designation for the metric equivalent of the V8 engine’s 302 cubic-inch displacement.

Now, it seems fitting for the sixth-generation Mustang’s first “5.0” ultra-high-performance concept to carry the King Cobra name.

A Water Wheel Powered by the River Helps Clean Baltimore Harbor| Go Further | Everyday Heroes

John Kellett was inspired to develop the Water Wheel by his daily sighting of trash in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. His goal is to make the harbor swimmable by 2020.

Turning a Culinary Passion into a Profession | 2015 Ford Mustang | Mustang Moments

Bernhard Schonsee dreams of opening his own restaurant one day. This is the chance he’s been waiting for — to collaborate with one of the Bay Area’s greatest chefs.

A life change is on the menu for Bernhard. He’s a urologist with dreams of opening his own restaurant. Can he turn his simmering passion into a taste of success … after taking a ride in the new 2015 Ford Mustang with Charlie Hallowell, one of the Bay Area’s greatest chefs? Check out Bernard’s story here.

What does it feel like to drive a Mustang? In Mustang Moments, award-winning director Alex Gibney captures people on the brink of a personal breakthrough as their dreams meet opportunities with a chance to pursue their passion—all while they’re behind the wheel of a new 2015 Ford Mustang.

Ford Selected to Participate in Festival at Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

Ford Motor Company will participate in a two-day festival celebrating American innovation presented by the Smithsonian Institution in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Patent and Trademark Office. Ford is one of 10 companies selected to exhibit a technology product for the Innovation Festival, Nov. 1-2, at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. The festival will allow the public to see breakthrough, patented American technologies developed by corporations, academic institutions, the federal government and the independent inventor community. It will include innovation-related programs and hands-on educational events. “Ford has a rich history of developing industry-first technology,” said Bill Coughlin, president and CEO, Ford Global Technologies, “and for that effort, and to be recognized by such a prestigious institution, is a great honor for our team.” The Innovation Festival is part of a five-year agreement between the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and the Smithsonian Institution to develop programs and exhibitions celebrating American innovation.

The Rush | 2015 Ford Mustang | Mustang Moments

How does it feel to drive the all-new 2015 Ford Mustang? Feel the rush when Mustang gives these individuals the opportunity of a lifetime.

The rush has arrived. See what the all-new 2015 Mustang has to show off in the Mustang Moments series. These are stories from 12 individuals, from around the world. Each with their own goals and aspirations, on the brink of a personal breakthrough. What does it feel like to get behind the wheel of the all-new 2015 Ford Mustang? Follow these individuals as their dreams meet opportunities in one hot new ride.

Vandemonium: You Won’t Believe How Five Aftermarket Shops Designed the First Ford Transit Customized Vans for SEMA

• Custom-built project vehicles from five coachbuilders will showcase different expressions of Ford Transit van flexibility and capability
• The custom Transits will be on display at the Specialty Equipment Market Association show in Las Vegas, Nov. 4-7
• A range of concepts will be represented, including Formula DRIFT, off-road adventure and high-end luxury versions

The first-ever all-new 2015 Ford Transit custom vans will debut at this year’s SEMA show in Las Vegas.

Five Transit project vehicles were crafted to showcase the van’s toughness and flexibility for customers looking for a vehicle that can fit a variety of needs – from high-tech luxury limo to sport exhibitions to off-road adventure.

“Ford Transit vans and passenger wagons are designed to be upfit-ready so customers have an easier time customizing the vehicle to work best for them,” said Yaroslav Hetman, brand manager for Ford Transit, Transit Connect and E-Series. “We are very excited about what our SEMA customizers have done with these vans. They preview the first of what is expected to be a renaissance in custom vans, led by the all-new Ford Transit.”

Customized Transit vehicles on display at the SEMA show Nov. 4-7 include:

Vegas Off-Road Experience Transit

Vegas Off-Road Experience in South Boulder City, Nevada, provides the ultimate adventure for those who have always wanted to drive an off-road desert race truck. The VORE group applied its expertise in preparing off-road trucks to the new Transit, creating a vehicle that provides luxury transportation with an off-road theme. This Transit, equipped with off-road wheels and tires, will be used for guest transportation at VORE events.

“Transit offered us so much capacity to work with that we were able to take our plans further than we could with a typical van,” said Mike Self, Vegas Off-Road Experience chief marketing officer. “It will be a great vehicle for taking guests out on course in high-end comfort.”
Off-road and premium features of the VORE Transit include:

• Custom LED interior lighting
• Five LED flat screens
•  60-inch LED flat-screen partition
• Large-screen TV for external viewing
• Video gaming station
• Touch-screen tablet controls
• LED light bars
• HID headlamps
• Extended fender flares
• Off-road wheels and tires
  
   

Designed Travel Transit

For long-distance road trips, Forest Lake, Minnesota-based Waldoch Crafts and 3dCarbon and Air Design of Newport Beach, California, customized a long-wheelbase, medium-roof Transit with a solid hickory wood floor and four reclining captain’s chairs with heating, cooling and massage functions, along with power headrests.

“The larger platform of Transit gives us room for creativity,” said Ernie Bunnell, vice president of sales for 3dCarbon and Air Design. “Transit provided us with a lot of capability, so we were able to include more technical features than the average conversion.”

Other features of the Designed Travel Transit include:

• Integrated front bumper with air dam and fog lamps
• Side skirts and lower rear skirt with integrated trailer hitch cover
• 20-inch wheels and tires
• Rear seat with fold-down sofa
• Tablet control system
• 4K ultra-high-definition 50-inch TV
• LED interior lighting
• Backup camera with 360-degree capability
  
   

Formula DRIFT Transit

This Formula DRIFT Transit is more than a concept – it is a functional vehicle that will be used at series events in 2015. The Formula DRIFT series, based in Long Beach, California, has taken a medium-roof, short-wheelbase Transit and transformed it into the ultimate track support vehicle. With high-horsepower vehicles sliding around at more than 100 mph in Formula DRIFT events, accidents do occur, and this custom Transit will be one of the first responders to help with fire and safety equipment at the accident site. Complete with a custom interior workspace with TV, LED lighting, a custom entertainment system from Clarion and a matching Kawasaki Mule support vehicle, this Transit will be a standout at the track.

”Track vehicles fulfill a lot of needs, and Transit is able to do it all,” said John Pangilinan, public relations director for Formula DRIFT. “The extra roof height Transit offers really adds a lot of usable space for all of our equipment, including the Kawasaki Mule.”
Formula DRIFT Transit highlights include:

• Matching Kawasaki Mule track support vehicle that will be housed inside Transit between events
  
• Storage bins for fire extinguishers, tools and cleanup equipment
• Workspace
• Fire suit and helmet racks
• Door-mounted flat panel monitor
• Performance air intake kit
• Performance exhaust system
• Performance suspension
  
   

Business Class Transit

This sleek, all-black Transit was created by Detroit Custom Coach of Oak Park, Michigan, and offers amenities for VIP travel, whether for business or a night out on the town. This long-wheelbase, high-roof Transit features seating for as many as eight people and a wide array of premium amenities, including cocktail stations.

“We are excited to show what the Ford brand can do when it comes to the VIP transportation industry,” said Detroit Custom Coach owner Chris Ramos. “We feel strongly that the new Ford Transit will give other vehicles in its class a run for their money.”

Premium and convenience features of the Business Class Transit include:

• Actuated passenger entrance step
• Wood-grain flooringLaptop station
• Cocktail station with glass holders
• Reclining, heated and massaging seats
• Color-changing LED lighting
• Flat-screen TVs
• Integrated iPad controls
• Wi-Fi
• Motorized privacy shades
  
   

Galpin Auto Sports Transit Skyliner

Transit Skyliner, created jointly by Ford and Galpin Auto Sports of Van Nuys, California, embodies the spirit of premium motor coaches and builds on the heritage of custom vans. The custom vehicle shows how Ford Transit can be transformed to fit the needs of limousines and high-end transportation services, as well as commercial fleets, shuttle providers and small-business owners.

Transit Skyliner features custom-designed “throne” seats that are controlled by a smartphone or tablet.

“We are sincerely excited to work with Ford in creating the future of travel,” said Beau Boeckmann, president of Galpin Auto Sports. “Tapping our history of creating the conversion van segment in the 1960s and ’70s, as well as our recent high-tech work, together with Ford we have brought the modern ultra-premium van to life.”

Premium features of the Galpin Auto Sports Transit Skyliner include:

• 52-inch retractable movie screen
• Focal Utopia 7.2 surround sound with custom-made speakers
• Satellite TVKaleidescape media server
• Integrated bar
• Matching luggage

Ford Unleashes Three New EcoBoost Expeditions at SEMA, Taking the Full-Size Utility to Awesome and Beyond

• New 2015 Ford Expedition reaches the next level of comfort and capability with three customized versions set to be on display at the annual SEMA show in Las Vegas
• From a 405-horsepower beast to a sophisticated ride with custom amenities and a winter warrior, the industry’s hottest builders took their inspiration from a variety of subjects to transform Ford Expedition into a standout at SEMA
• EcoBoost^®-powered Ford Expedition is a full-size utility vehicle for consumers seeking capability, the latest in advanced technologies, and class-leading cargo space from the extended-length version

From a high-horsepower application to sophisticated style and aggressive snow warrior, three Ford Expeditions – new for 2015 – have been given makeovers just in time for the 2014 Specialty Equipment Market Association show in Las Vegas.

A trio of top industry builders – Tjin Edition, DUB Magazine and Vaccar – took charge with the 2015 Ford Expedition to create versions of the full-size utility vehicle like no other. Look for the custom Expeditions to be on display Nov. 4-7 at Las Vegas Convention Center.

“The builders really outdid themselves with these one-of-a-kind versions of Ford’s full-size utility,” said Mike Nicopolis, of Ford’s SEMA aftermarket support group. “The 2015 Ford Expedition offers great space, performance and capability in an impressive package that is the perfect platform for creativity and customization.”

2015 Ford Expedition by Tjin Edition

The Tjin Edition Ford Expedition stays true to the sophistication of its premium roots, but with added individuality via custom metal fender flares, a custom dark gray paint job and a whole new liftgate.

“The Tjin Edition Ford Expedition is intended to showcase a Ford vehicle featuring capability for towing, one that can serve as a daily driver and is a standout as a promotional show car,” said Tjin Edition’s Neil Tjin.

This custom Expedition starts with the 365-horsepower 3.5-liter EcoBoost^® V6 and six-speed automatic transmission. Then, via a charge cooler kit from Vortech Engineering, custom tuneup, custom side exhaust from MagnaFlow, and high-performance oils and lubricants from Royal Purple, the Tjin Edition Expedition roars with another 40 ponies underhood for a total of 405 horsepower.
The chassis was customized by Unique Fabrication and features Air Lift struts and an Accuair air management system, as well as a big brake system from Baer Brakes, 24-inch custom Rotiform wheels and Falken tires.

The exterior features custom metal fenders, an Axalta Coating Systems custom paint job executed by L&R Autobody, twin Webasto sunroofs, and custom headlights and taillights from LightWurkz.

2015 Ford Expedition by DUB Magazine

The 2015 Ford Expedition by DUB Magazine has amenities that bring an added level of style and sophistication.

The exterior has custom mesh accents, front grille and lighting with 26-inch DS644 concave wheels from Dropstars Wheels, and Pirelli tires. Custom DUB Edition badging, tinted windows and an integrated radar detection system are featured as well.

The 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 was given an exhaust system from Borla Performance, and the team installed a suspension kit from McGaughy’s Suspension Lift Kits to lower the vehicle, as well as high-performance brakes.

There is an upgraded multimedia and sound system, upgraded seats and upholstery, and custom adjustable LED lighting that can be controlled by remote installed inside on the front row. The center console extends throughout the vehicle, with places for headphones and tablets. Motorized hidden boxes can hold valuables like watches.

The rear seating area has multiple monitors that can be viewed from different locations and from angles both in and outside of the vehicle. There is a video gaming system and wireless headphones, along with internet accessibility.

“Expedition already has a great look and design,” said Myles Kovacs, president and cofounder of DUB Media. “We wanted to take that foundation and create something that takes upscale travel to another level, taking cues from airline travel.”

2015 Ford Expedition XLT by Vaccar

The 2015 Ford Expedition XLT by Vaccar is meant for winter driving in style, showcasing the vehicle’s capability on the exterior and comfort on the inside.

“I was excited to do something that showcases the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, and express aggressiveness on the outside while adding to the great comfort that is on the inside,” said Aaron Vaccar, creator and lead designer for Vaccar. “I wanted to create a rolling lodge.”

The exterior is finished in custom Vaccar two-tone matte mountain gray, with paint and accents from BASF, Vaccar Grill Guardian brush guard bull bar, swivel hooks by Monster Hooks, spring steps and a hitch stop from Go Rhino!, and MegaWarrior cargo basket from Yakima Products.                                                   


The team also gave the Expedition 20-inch M15 wheels from Mamba Off-Road Wheels and General Tire Grabber AT² tires.

Occupants enjoy added comfort with Vaccar Lux Ultra-Suede silver upholstery on the seats.

Road-ready

The 2015 Ford Expedition, in showrooms now, is the full-size utility for consumers who want capability, class-leading maximum cargo space in the extended-length version, and the latest advanced technologies.

With a refreshed look and its 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, the new Expedition has more technology than previous-generation vehicles. It is the latest Ford nameplate to offer a high-end Platinum series.

The 2015 Ford Expedition is available with SYNC^® with MyFord Touch^® and driver-assist features like radar-based Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert. The updated center stack can accommodate the available 8-inch touch screen for SYNC with MyFord Touch, which features driver information in the gauge cluster shown on two full-color 4.2-inch screens.

Other available new technologies on the 2015 Expedition include a Sony^® Audio System; passive entry with push-button start; rearview camera; front and rear parking sensors; seven-color, ambient interior LED lighting; and Ford truck apps to help make trailer towing and off-road driving easier.