Ford and North Texas Ford Dealers Accelerate Education and Invest more than $800,000 in Innovative Local Initiatives

• Ford Motor Company Fund and North Texas Ford Dealers make education a priority by launching initiatives that will help 14,000 students.
• Unique collaboration to award $350,000 in scholarships, more than doubling last year’s support. Every dollar invested by Ford dealers is matched by Ford Fund.
• Ford Driving Dreams Tour is launched for the third year in North Texas, helping prepare students for college and donating 10,000 new books to children in need.

The North Texas Ford Dealers and Ford Motor Company Fund announced plans today to deliver more than $800,000 in education programs and awareness this year to prepare students for a stronger future. This brings Ford’s community investment in North Texas to nearly $2 million since the Ford Fund and area Ford dealers launched their unique collaboration in 2013.

The new initiatives focus on promoting reading at an early age and helping students graduate from high school on time, and go to college. This year, scholarships will be available in nearly 100 high schools throughout North Texas.

“We are very excited to continue this program in North Texas,” said Sam Pack, chairman of the North Texas Ford Dealers. “Education is a top priority for Ford and its dealers and we believe this is an excellent opportunity to support student achievement in our communities.”

Today, nationally recognized empowerment speaker Roy Juarez, Jr. whose powerful story was featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Extraordinary Teens, kicked off the program at a pep rally at Moises E. Molina High School in the Dallas Independent School District. It will be followed by motivational rallies at Diamond Hill-Jarvis High School (Dallas), H. Grady Spruce High School and South Hills High School, both in the Fort Worth Independent School District.

Jim Vella, president of Ford Motor Company Fund, who was also in attendance, said, “Our goal is to accelerate our efforts in innovative ways. By working with our dealers to take a more focused approach in the neighborhoods where we operate, we are building on our previous success to drive a brighter future for our young people.”

Key initiatives that are part of this effort are:

Ford Dealers Scholarship Matching Program

The North Texas Ford Dealers and Ford Motor Company Fund have joined forces to create the North Texas Ford Dealers Scholarship Program to help youth in North Texas achieve a college education.  This is a unique collaboration where every dollar invested by Ford dealers has been matched by Ford Motor Company Fund, making it possible to award $350,000 in scholarships to students who live where Ford operates – from Dallas and Farmers Branch to Palestine. Participating dealers will award $2,000 in scholarships to high schools seniors attending schools in their neighborhoods. Nearly 100 high schools will benefit. The program enables Ford dealers to connect with their communities by supporting their local high schools. It also ensures that Ford’s educational efforts are reaching the expansive North Texas community. The scholarships will be administered by Stars on the Rise, an education initiative by the Greater Dallas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Students can apply at www.gdhcc.com and the deadline is March 27.

Ford Driving Dreams Tour

For the third consecutive year, Ford Fund will implement the Ford Driving Dreams Tour in North Texas. This program was piloted in North Texas with the Irving Independent School District. It is designed to help Latino youth stay in school and pursue higher education.  The program empowers students to plan and develop a road map for their college future through multiple resources.  Resources include: financial assistance through scholarships and grants; high energy, student assemblies; and an essay contest in which thousands of students are invited to share their dream. The Tour will be implemented in partnership with Dallas ISD and Fort Worth ISD at Diamond Hill-Jarvis High School, H. Grady Spruce High School, Moisés E. Molina High School, and South Hills High School.

Inspiring the Love of Reading

The ability to read by the third grade determines a child’s future. Yet, research shows that in some of the lowest-income communities, there is only one book per 300 children. For children to become proficient readers, they need ongoing access to quality books and educational resources. With this in mind, Ford is partnering with First Book, a nonprofit social enterprise, to provide 10,000 new books to North Texas elementary school children in need.

North Texas is a Ford Operation Better World market. Operation Better World is designed to increase Ford's philanthropic and community-related commitment in select communities around the world. In North Texas, Ford’s main focus is education, but it also supports other community needs such as hunger relief efforts and teen driver safety. Ford’s local partners include the Dallas Independent School District, the Fort Worth Independent School District, Stars on the Rise, Parents Step Ahead, SER Jobs for Progress, University of Cross Roads and the North Texas Food Bank. Statewide, Ford has invested more than $22 million in community building initiatives since 2000.
 
For more information, visit www.fordscholars.org/drivingdreams

2014 Full-Year Ford Motor Company Performance | ford.com

2014 was a strong, but challenging year for Ford. A year of growth, innovation, and laying the groundwork for our continued success. We were named U.S. Best-Selling Vehicle Brand for fifth straight year, and we launched a record number of 24 vehicles globally. Watch our 2014 year in review as we address our work in innovation, growth and product excellence while setting the foundation for 2015.

Giving Back to Aspiring Musicians | Ford Trucks | Good Works: Episode #1

Meet a touring musician who is doing good in his community by mentoring teens so they can grow, as musicians and as young adults.

Built Ford Tough® Good Works: Shining a light on Ford owners who use their trucks to do good in their communities

This week, Brendon Clark travels to Dallas to meet a Norman Pangle, a professional touring musician who is doing good in his community by running a mentoring program that gives teens the support they need to grow, both as musicians and as young adults.

Ford opens Silicon Valley research center | Ford.com

On Jan. 22, Ford officially opened the new Research and Innovation Center Palo Alto. This facility will accelerate the development of technologies and experiments in connectivity, mobility, autonomous vehicles, customer experience and big data.

'Mustang' More Popular Than 'Superman,' 'Batman' According to Research by SplashData

• “Mustang” is the 16th most common password on the Internet according to a recent study by SplashData, besting both “superman” in 21st place and “batman” in 24th

• Mustang is the only car to appear in the top 25 most common Internet passwords

• Adding letters, numbers, acronyms and symbols to your favorite pony car-inspired code for sign-in will help strengthen your password
   

Ford Mustang is one of the most popular cars ever built, and now it has the distinct honor of being one of the most common passwords on the Internet, a recent study reveals.

According to SplashData – a company specializing in password management – the word “mustang” was the 16th most common password found on the Internet in 2014, the only car moniker that found its way into the top 25. Not only that, Mustang is a slayer of superheroes – more popular than “Batman” and “Superman” as people’s secret code for accessing their personal networks and accounts.

“We’re flattered people want to use ‘mustang’ as their password, but alone, it just isn’t strong enough to be secure,” said Keith Moss, Ford Director of Cyber Security. “We encourage people to use ‘mustang,’ but we recommend they strengthen their password by mixing upper and lower case letters, numbers, acronyms and symbols to make it unique.”

Here are a few suggestions for strengthening your “mustang” password:

• Add numbers to your password (favorite Mustang model year, year you bought your Mustang or year you sold the car)
• Incorporate Mustang option codes, paint codes, engine codes or digits from your VIN
• Create acronyms for modifications made to your Mustang (FRSC, for Ford Racing SuperCharger, for example)
• Include your favorite driving road or road trip destination

Keep in mind that using the same password on all websites is not recommended; a password manager can help keep multiple Mustang-related passwords organized and easy-to-access.

While you should always keep your Mustang-inspired password a secret, wear your appreciation for the iconic pony car proudly and loudly.

Ford reveals all-new GT supercar, Shelby Mustang and Raptor at 2015 Detroit Auto Show | Ford.com

As part of its new Ford Performance division, Ford unveiled three heart-pounding vehicles at the Detroit Auto Show. The Ford GT is an ultra-high-performance super car with a twin-turbocharged EcoBoost® V6 that will produce more than 600 horsepower.

Crafting a Smarter Interior and HMI with Ford

Hear from Ford engineers how they design a smarter, better interior and HMI (human-machine interface) inside Ford vehicles.

Using Nest with Ford SYNC 3

Hear from Ford engineers about how they're integrating Nest into SYNC 3 and advancing the internet of things.

2015 Ford Expedition Earns Highest Vehicle Safety Rating from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration awards 2015 Ford Expedition a five-star Overall Vehicle Score in its New Car Assessment Program
  

• 2015 Ford Expedition offers drivers comprehensive safety systems that include AdvanceTrac^® with Roll Stability Control^™, Safety Canopy^® side-curtain airbags, SOS Post-Crash Alert System, tire pressure monitoring system and traction control
  

• 2015 Expedition – with best-in-class towing, torque and third-row legroom – is now available in range-topping Platinum series
  

The 2015 Ford Expedition earned a five-star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the U.S. government’s highest possible overall rating.

The New Car Assessment Program is the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s evaluation program for new automobile designs. It was established to test for performance against safety threats. It includes tests for front and side impacts.

“The 2015 Expedition now has driver-assist technology features that are new to the nameplate,” said Steve Kenner, director, Ford Global Automotive Safety Office. “These technology upgrades make Expedition the full-size utility vehicle for customers who want capability, style and modern conveniences.”

Safety and driver-assist features

Expedition has a myriad of standard safety features aimed at protecting drivers and occupants, as well as driver-assist features that are new to the vehicle.

Standard safety features include AdvanceTrac^® with Roll Stability Control^™, Safety Canopy^® side-curtain airbags, SOS Post-Crash Alert System, tire pressure monitoring system and traction control.

The 2015 model debuts driver-assist technologies to the Expedition nameplate, like available radar-based Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert. Using sensor-based radar technology, BLIS^® can help detect when a vehicle is in a driver’s blind spot and flashes a warning light in the appropriate sideview mirror.

Cross-traffic alert uses radar to help detect vehicles approaching from the side when a driver is slowly backing out of a parking spot or driveway. When a vehicle is detected, an audible warning sounds and a visual cue will be issued in the message center.

Other new technologies include a standard rearview camera, keyless entry with push-button start, and front and rear parking sensors.

Stylish, powerful, fuel-efficient

The 2015 Expedition is the most powerful and fuel-efficient Expedition yet, offering customers a full-size utility vehicle with a stylish design and fresh interiors across a diverse lineup that includes a new Platinum trim level.

The 3.5-liter EcoBoost^® V6, the only engine available for Expedition in North America, generates 365 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque, and with an EPA-estimated rating of 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway with two-wheel-drive. Actual mileage will vary. Expedition also offers best-in-class maximum cargo space for the extended-length version, and available best-in-class towing of up to 9,200 pounds when properly equipped. It all adds up to a truly useful utility vehicle.

Ford was the No. 1-selling utility brand in the United States for 2014, making for the fourth straight year the company has maintained its utility vehicle leadership in America.

Ford's aDRIVE Developing Smarter Vehicles

aDRIVE is Ford's virtual environment used to test vehicle algorithms that will eventually power automated vehicles. Hear from Ford engineers on how they use this environment and how they're building the future of transportation.

Ford Mustang Begins Global Exports

Ford Mustang Begins Global Exports

F-150 Raptor for Kids: Free Limited-Edition Revell Model Kits at Ford Stand at North American International Auto Show

• Ford and Revell^® are giving away limited-edition F-150 Raptor model kits at the Ford stand at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit through Jan. 25
• 2015 North American International Auto Show debuts the all-new Ford F-150 Raptor – the ultimate high-performance off-road pickup in the company’s lineup
• Ford re-engineered every part of F-150 Raptor to make it the toughest, smartest, most capable off-roader – and more efficient than ever; the Revell SnapTite^® model kit allows kids age eight and up to build and then play with their own mini Raptor model

From the sidewalk to the sandbox, kids eight and up will be able to build, play and display their own all-new Ford F-150 Raptor – the toughest, smartest, most capable Raptor ever.

Revell^® – a worldwide leader in the hobby industry – is working with Ford to give away special limited-edition F-150 Raptor model kits at the Ford stand at the 2015 North American International Auto Show through Jan. 25. The collectible Revell SnapTite^® model kit allows kids to build and then play with their own mini Raptor model.

The 20-piece Raptor model complements Revell’s successful 2015 Ford Mustang promotional model kit jointly distributed with Ford at last year’s North American International Auto Show. The 2015 Mustang SnapTite Build & Play^® model kit was Revell’s top seller in 2014.

“We are pleased to follow up on the success of last year’s Revell Mustang SnapTite Build & Play model kit giveaway,” said Dave Tillapaugh, Ford auto show manager. “Kids can proudly display these limited-edition 2017 F-150 Raptor models as a long-lasting reminder of their 2015 Ford auto show experience.”

Ford, America’s truck leader, debuted the all-new F-150 Raptor – the ultimate high-performance off-road pickup in the company’s lineup – Jan. 12 at the North American International Auto Show. Every part of the F-150 Raptor is re-engineered to make it the toughest, smartest, most capable off-roader – and more efficient than ever.

“We are proud to continue this relationship with Ford and offer this new collectible F-150 Raptor SnapTite model,” said Lou Aguilera, Revell vice president and general manager. “We expect an enthusiastic response as kids build their own model of this impressive sport truck.”

The Revell SnapTite model of the Ford F-150 Raptor goes on sale this June.

New Raptor

Raptor boasts an all-new, purpose-built frame – the backbone of the truck – that is the strongest in the F-150 lineup, featuring more high-strength steel than ever.

Forged from high-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloy that helps save more than 500 pounds of weight, Raptor’s exterior design is inspired by Ford’s performance heritage in off-road racing that includes Best in the Desert and the famous Baja 1000. Raptor’s chiseled looks are reminiscent of those found in Trophy Trucks – the most powerful and fastest off-road pickups.

Raptor is powered by Ford’s new, second-generation 3.5-liter EcoBoost^® engine that produces more power with greater efficiency than the current 6.2-liter V8, which is rated at 411 horsepower and 434 lb.-ft. of torque.

Raptor will be built at Dearborn Truck Plant, and goes on sale fall 2016.

The All-New 2017 F-150 Raptor Revealed At 2015 Detroit Auto Show | Ford.com

The all-new 2017 Raptor — pushing the limits of what a full-size pickup can be.

Ford Is Biggest Winner in Edmunds.com Most Popular Awards

• Eight Ford vehicles are among the most researched vehicles on Edmunds.com – more than any other brand
  
  
• Ford dominates the van category of the Edmunds awards, with Ford Transit and Transit Connect ranking among the top three vehicles
  

• Edmunds 2015 Most Popular awards are based on the number of unique monthly visits for car shopper consideration over the first 10 months of 2014
  

Ford F-150, Expedition, Explorer, Mustang, Shelby GT500, Fiesta, Transit van and Transit Connect are recipients of the Edmunds.com 2015 Most Popular awards.

These Ford vehicles rate among the top three most-researched vehicles in their respective categories on the website over a 10-month period.

Ford vehicles are among the top vehicles in seven out of 22 Edmunds categories, with Ford Transit and Transit Connect being the most researched in the van category.

“We are proud to see more interest in Ford vehicles than any other brand on Edmunds.com,” said Chantel Lenard, Ford director, U.S. Marketing. “The fact so many people are researching Ford vehicles shows our product portfolio is truly world-class and we offer the vehicles customers want.”

The awards are determined based on the number of unique visitors to Edmunds.com researching a vehicle’s inventory, model detail, reviews, and build and price pages from Jan. 1 to Oct. 31, 2014.

“Of all brands, Ford earned the most consideration from in-market car shoppers in 2014,” said Edmunds.com CEO Avi Steinlauf. “This bodes well for a great year in 2015.”

All-new F-150 earns Urban Truck of the Year award

The 2015 Ford F-150 – the toughest, smartest, most capable F-150 ever – adds another win to its growing list of awards and accolades as the all-new truck captured Urban Truck of the Year honors at the 19th Annual Urban Wheel Awards. Judges evaluated dozens of vehicles in a variety of urban settings in North America to determine the most stylish, practical new cars and trucks for 2015. F-150 earned top honors over Cadillac Escalade for its “potentially revolutionary use of aluminum …substantial weight loss” and “great mileage,” according to the judges. Click here for more information on the Urban Wheel Awards, Official Multicultural Event of the 2015 North American International Auto Show.

All-New F-150 Raptor Is Ford’s Toughest, Smartest, Most Capable Truck for Ultimate Off-Road Performance

• Toughest: All-new, purpose-built high-strength steel frame unique to Ford F-150 Raptor, and high-strength, military-grade, aluminum-alloy body help save more than 500 pounds of weight for improved performance and capability
• Smartest: Powered by all-new, high-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost^® engine with more horsepower and torque than current Raptor’s 411-horsepower, 434-lb.-ft. 6.2-liter V8; all-new 10-speed transmission; advanced LED lighting, camera technology for improved visibility day or night
• Most capable: Redesigned, larger FOX Racing Shox with more suspension travel and all-new terrain management technology help F-150 Raptor tackle America’s toughest trails – from dry washes in the Mojave Desert to Moab’s rocky terrain to Michigan mud, sand and snow

Ford, America’s truck leader, today introduced the all-new F-150 Raptor – the ultimate high-performance off-road pickup in the company’s lineup.

Ford has reengineered every part of the F-150 Raptor to make it the toughest, smartest, most capable off-roader – and more efficient than ever.

“When we created the first Raptor, we set out to prove vehicle performance isn’t just measured on the street or at the track – off-road can be even more fun,” said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. “The original Raptor, plus enhancements on the all-new F-150 set the bar for us to make the all-new Raptor better in every way.”

Toughest
 
The all-new Raptor starts with a purpose-built frame – the backbone of the truck – that is the strongest in the F-150 lineup, featuring more high-strength steel than the outgoing Raptor.

Forged from high-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloy that helps save more than 500 pounds of weight, Raptor’s exterior design is inspired by Ford’s performance heritage in off-road racing that includes Best in the Desert, Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series and the famous Baja 1000.

Raptor’s chiseled looks are reminiscent of those found in Trophy Trucks – the most powerful and fastest off-road pickups.

Raptor is 6 inches wider than the standard F-150 for improved stability off-road.

The all-new Raptor also boasts its first-ever dual exhaust and new 17-inch wheels with next-generation BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 tires specifically designed for off-road performance.

Smartest
 
Raptor is powered by Ford’s new, second-generation 3.5-liter EcoBoost^® engine that produces more power with greater efficiency than the current 6.2-liter V8, which is rated at 411 horsepower and 434 lb.-ft. of torque.

The first-generation 3.5-liter EcoBoost proved its mettle off-road – racing in the original F-150 EcoBoost Torture Test truck in the 2010 Baja 1000, as well as notching repeated wins in off-road race series.

The high-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost is a Raptor exclusive in the F-150 lineup. It will be paired with an all-new 10-speed transmission for improved efficiency.

An all-new four-wheel-drive, torque-on-demand transfer case, with an advanced, easier-to-use version of off-road mode driver-assist technology, further improves Raptor’s trail performance.
Raptor’s new transfer case, which manages power distribution between the front and rear wheels, combines the best attributes of clutch-driven, on-demand all-wheel drive with durable, mechanical-locking four-wheel drive.

“The new transfer case offers better traction for a greater variety of terrain at low and high speeds – both on-road and off-road,” said Jamal Hameedi, chief engineer, Ford Performance.
Raptor’s pioneering off-road mode driving technology has evolved into an all-new Terrain Management System^™ that enables the driver to select modes to optimize driving dynamics to environmental conditions – from snow to mud, sand and more.

The new Raptor features calibration changes to its powertrain, driveline, traction control, ABS and AdvanceTrac stability control for optimal performance. There are six preset modes for the truck depending on terrain and driving conditions:

• Normal mode for everyday driving
• Street mode for higher-performance, on-road driving
• Weather mode for rain, snow or ice
• Mud and sand mode for muddy and sandy trails and terrain
• Baja mode for high-speed desert running
• Rock mode for low-speed rock crawling

Most capable
 
An available Torsen front differential increases off-road capability further. The system increases grip significantly for the front end of the truck and allows it to pull itself over obstacles and up steep grades – even when traction is split between the front tires.

Building a high-performance off-road truck isn’t just about engine power – more importantly, it’s about the suspension.

F-150 Raptor comes standard with new FOX Racing Shox with custom internal bypass technology that works to damp and stiffen suspension travel over rough terrain to help prevent the truck from bottoming out.

Front and rear shock canisters have grown from 2.5 inches to 3 inches in diameter for improved performance. They feature more suspension travel than the current Raptor’s 11.2 inches at the front and 12 inches at the rear.

Advanced LED lighting and camera technology contribute to improved visibility on the trail or street – day and night.

Commanding and comfortable
 
While the exterior design of the F-150 Raptor is about projecting an image, the interior design is about creating a comfortable place for driver and passengers to enjoy their time on- and off-road.

Added content includes interior upgrades, three color material levels, and paddle shifters to manually shift the 10-speed transmission. 

Auxiliary switches to control aftermarket equipment such as lights or an air compressor are mounted out of the driver’s way in the roof of the cab – similar to a fighter plane.
“This all-new F-150 Raptor takes Raptor performance to the next level,” said Dave Pericak, director, Ford Performance.

The all-new Raptor will be built at Dearborn Truck Plant, and goes on sale fall 2016. 

All-New Ford F-150 Named North American Truck/Utility of the Year

• All-new Ford F-150 is North American Truck/Utility of the Year – as awarded by a jury of U.S. and Canadian journalists
• 2015 Ford F-150 win marks the eighth time a Ford vehicle has been named North American Truck/Utility of the Year
•  New F-150 – featuring the toughest, smartest, most capable F-150 lineup ever – includes the highest EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of any full-size gasoline-powered pickup on the market

The 2015 Ford F-150 took home the North American Truck of the Year award today.

The all-new F-150 was picked over Chevrolet Colorado and Lincoln MKC to win the awards presented at the start of the 2015 North American International Auto Show.

“Ford is honored to be named the best among such a strong field of competitors,” said Joe Hinrichs, Ford president of The Americas. “Ford employees and customers have a lot to be proud of with the innovative and award-winning F-150.”

North American Car of the Year and Truck/Utility of the Year awards recognize vehicles based on factors that include innovation, design, safety, handling, driver satisfaction and value. More than 50 veteran journalists vote for the vehicles, which must be all-new or substantially changed from the previous model to qualify for the awards.

The win by F-150 is the eighth time a Ford vehicle has won Truck/Utility of the Year. This is the 22nd year for the awards.

Toughest, smartest, most capable
 
The all-new F-150 is the toughest, smartest and most capable F-150 ever – boasting a military-grade, aluminum-alloy body and high-strength steel frame, and shedding up to 700 pounds for a lighter, more efficient truck than any previous F-150.

These weight savings lead to customer benefits regardless of model configuration or engine choice. The innovative new truck can tow up to 1,100 more pounds and haul up to 530 more pounds than the 2014 model, and has the highest EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of any full-size gasoline pickup on the market. When equipped with an available 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine, the new F-150 4x2 has EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined. Actual mileage may vary.

Numerous groundbreaking features debuted in the all-new F-150, including these class-exclusives:

• 360-degree camera view uses exterior cameras to create a bird’s-eye view of the truck to help drivers park, maneuver in tight spots, and navigate narrow roads and trails
• Integrated loading ramps enable easy loading of ATVs, motorcycles and mowers
• BoxLink^™ combines metal brackets and custom cleats to secure a variety of accessories in the cargo box – from ramps to storage bins to bed dividers
• Trailer hitch assist adds a new rearview camera feature that incorporates a dynamic line based on steering wheel angle in the display to help customers line up their truck and trailer with no spotter or need to exit the vehicle
• Remote tailgate allows for tailgate to be locked, unlocked and released with the key fob

Microsoft and Ford Unveil Ford GT as Cover Car for "Forza Motorsport 6" Debuting Exclusively on Xbox One

Ford’s new line of performance vehicles will star in Microsoft’s newest and most advanced racing game

Microsoft, Turn 10 Studios and Ford unveiled a new collaboration today at the 2015 North American International Auto Show – announcing the all-new Ford GT ultra-high-performance supercar as the featured cover car in the next iteration of the acclaimed racing simulation franchise for Xbox, “Forza Motorsport 6,” launching exclusively for Xbox One.

Ford GT serves as a technology showcase for the company with its ultra-efficient EcoBoost^® engine performance, advanced aerodynamics and lightweight carbon fiber construction. It will arrive at dealerships in select markets globally late next year.

 In addition, the companies revealed that Ford’s performance vehicle lineup will appear in “Forza Motorsport 6.” This includes Ford GT, Shelby^® GT350 Mustang and the F-150 Raptor, which debuted today at the North American International Auto Show. As “First in Forza” vehicles, global fans will have the opportunity to virtually experience the cars when they debut in “Forza Motorsport 6.”

 “It is an honor to share this historic moment with Ford and celebrate the legacy of the GT by making it the featured cover car of ‘Forza Motorsport 6,’” said Phil Spencer, head of Xbox. “We’re thrilled to have the unique opportunity to announce ‘Forza Motorsport 6’ the day the car debuts – on one of the biggest stages in the automotive industry – and we can’t wait to share more details on the game later this year.”

“Forza Motorsport,” developed exclusively for Xbox, is the highest-rated racing series of the past decade, according to Metacritic. Developed by Microsoft’s Turn 10 Studios, the series combines the industry’s leading next-generation graphics and simulation engines, and has become the most-played next-generation racing simulation on Xbox One.

“The Ford GT is the ultimate execution of an enthusiast supercar – delivering ultra-efficient EcoBoost performance, driver-centric technology and lightweight carbon fiber construction,” said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. “Working with Microsoft and Turn 10 Studios allows us to share our all-new GT supercar with an unprecedented global audience – giving fans an opportunity to virtually experience the beauty, thrill and innovation of Ford’s performance lineup.”

A pioneer in the global automotive industry, Ford is a leader in innovation. Ford GT showcases material and technology innovations to help better serve drivers, such as active aerodynamics; light-weighting, with a carbon fiber passenger cell and carbon-ceramic brake discs; and a next-generation EcoBoost engine that produces more than 600 horsepower.

“Just as Ford has pushed the boundaries of car technology in GT, ‘Forza Motorsport 6’ will embrace that spirit of innovation as our most technically advanced racing simulation to date – offering a fun and realistic automotive experience for both car lovers and gamers,” said Dan Greenawalt, creative director at Turn 10 Studios. “We’re excited to unveil gameplay at E3 in June.”

More details on “Forza Motorsport 6” and Ford GT news can be found at news.xbox.com and media.ford.com, respectively. Media assets for “Forza Motorsport 6” can be found at news.xbox.com/media.

Ford Accelerates Carbon Fiber Research to Drive Innovation in Manufacturing Technology

• Ford announces new collaboration with DowAksa and U.S. Department of Energy to develop manufacturing innovations in automotive-grade carbon fiber for use in future products
  

• High-volume, low-cost carbon fiber components will reduce vehicle weight for increased fuel efficiency without sacrificing strength
  

• Creation of Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing Innovation enables acceleration of Ford research and development of low-cost, high-volume carbon fiber
  

Ford and DowAksa are accelerating joint research to develop high-volume manufacturing techniques for automotive-grade carbon fiber – aiming to make vehicles lighter for greater fuel efficiency, performance and capability.

The companies will be part of the newly formed Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing Innovation, created by the U.S. government. The institute is part of the larger National Network for Manufacturing Innovation supported by the U.S. Department of Energy.

“Our collaboration with DowAksa and participation in this organization significantly boosts what we are able to achieve,” said Ken Washington, Ford vice president, Research and Advanced Engineering. “We have a true alliance of highly talented people working to take automotive materials to the next level.”

The mission of the institute and the goal of Ford’s collaboration with DowAksa – a 50/50 joint venture between The Dow Chemical Company and Aksa Akrilik Kimya Sanayii A.Ş. – is to overcome the high cost and limited availability of carbon fiber, while developing a viable, high-volume manufacturing process. Ford and Dow Chemical began working together in 2012 to develop low-cost, high-volume carbon fiber composites.

“This opportunity builds upon Ford’s current joint development agreement with Dow Chemical and accelerates our time line to introduce carbon fiber composites into high-volume applications,” said Jim deVries, Ford global manager, Materials and Manufacturing Research. “This collaboration helps us accelerate our efforts to create lighter automotive-grade composite materials that benefit customers by enabling improved fuel economy without sacrificing strength.”

Ford’s expertise in high-volume manufacturing, design and engineering complements DowAksa’s strength in producing materials that make up carbon composites to create parts much lighter than steel components but with no loss of strength.

“DowAksa’s technology and manufacturing expertise will help effectively overcome barriers to entry for the use of carbon fiber composites in high-volume automotive applications,” said Douglas Parks, DowAksa board member and a primary participant in the founding of the Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing Innovation. “The new institute provides a collaborative platform to accelerate our progress.”

Carbon fiber composites have been used in aircraft and racing cars for decades because they provide high strength with extremely low weight. It is possible to tailor strength properties to a specific component – making it as stiff or flexible as needed for a given application.

“Our goal is to develop a material that can greatly reduce vehicle weight in support of improved fuel economy for our customers,” said Patrick Blanchard, Ford supervisor, Composites Group. “The flexibility of the technology allows us to develop materials for all vehicle subsystems across the product line – resulting in a weight savings of more than 50 percent compared to steel.”

Creating lighter vehicles is a major part of Ford’s Blueprint for Sustainability to reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. Current products that apply a light-weighting philosophy include Fiesta – which uses high-strength, lightweight boron steel. The all-new 2015 Ford F-150 uses high-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloy to help reduce overall weight by up to 700 pounds – returning an EPA-estimated 5 percent to 29 percent better fuel economy, depending on engine and driveline configuration on the combined cycle, along with best-in-class payload and tow ratings.

The Ford Lightweight Concept Fusion applied such lightweight materials as aluminum, high-strength steel, magnesium, composites and carbon fiber to nearly every vehicle system to reduce the car’s weight to that of a Fiesta – a near 25 percent cut. Learnings from this concept can springboard light-weighting technologies to a much larger scale of production.

Ford and DowAksa also are working together to reduce the energy needed to produce carbon fiber components, cut the cost of raw materials and develop recycling processes.

Toughest, Smartest, Most Capable F-150 Ever Is Truck Trend Magazine’s 2015 Pickup Truck of the Year

• The 2015 Ford F-150 has been honored with the inaugural Truck Trend 2015 Pickup Truck of the Year award from the truck experts at the magazine
• F-150 outperformed all other contenders in various tests evaluating truck design, capability, performance and fuel efficiency
• The 2015 F-150 – featuring the toughest, smartest, most capable F-150 lineup ever – includes the highest EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of any full-size gasoline-powered pickup on the market

The 2015 Ford F-150, which has established a new standard for full-size pickups with best-in-class gasoline fuel efficiency and capability, today was named Truck Trend’s 2015 Pickup Truck of the Year.

“The 2015 Ford F-150 is our toughest, smartest and most capable F-150 ever, and Truck Trend’s Pickup Truck of the Year award reinforces that this is truly the best choice for America’s truck buyers,” said Joe Hinrichs, Ford president, The Americas. “We are proud to receive this award.”

Each contender was evaluated against key criteria, including design, capability, performance and fuel efficiency.

“Ford has found a sweet spot in the half-ton pickup segment, delivering a compelling mix of efficiency and capability, while still delivering an enhanced driving experience that American consumers demand,” said Sean P. Holman, Truck Trend content director. “What we put these trucks through was nothing short of grueling, and it was the F-150 that consistently impressed our experts.”

With 753,851 sales in 2014, more than 220,000 over its nearest competitor, Ford F-Series has now extended its leadership to 38 straight years as America’s best-selling truck and 33 straight years as America’s best-selling vehicle.

Toughest, most efficient F-150 ever

The all-new F-150’s improved performance is enabled by weight savings achieved through the use of high-strength steel and high-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloy, as well as smart engineering. The weight savings not only improve fuel efficiency, but capability and performance, too. Combined with EcoBoost^® engine technology, F-150 now tows as much as 1,100 more pounds and hauls as much as 530 more pounds than the current model, with a 5 percent to 16 percent better power-to-weight ratio.

Up to 700 pounds lighter than current models, the new F-150 returns an EPA-estimated 5 percent to 29 percent better fuel economy, depending on engine and driveline configuration on the combined cycle.

New technologies mean smartest F-150 ever

Numerous groundbreaking features debut in the all-new F-150, including 11 available class-exclusive technologies. Highlights include:

• 360-degree camera view uses exterior cameras to create a bird’s-eye view of the truck to help drivers park, maneuver in tight spots, and navigate narrow roads and trails
• Integrated loading ramps enable easy loading of ATVs, motorcycles and mowers
• BoxLink^™ combines metal brackets and custom cleats to secure a variety of accessories in the cargo box – from ramps to storage bins to bed dividers
• LED headlamps and taillamps provide excellent nighttime visibility and illumination
• Trailer hitch assist adds a new rearview camera feature that incorporates a dynamic line based on steering wheel angle in the display to help owners line up their truck and trailer with no spotter or need to exit the vehicle
• Remote tailgate release allows for tailgate to be not only opened but also locked and unlocked with the key fob

Four engine choices ensure most capable F-150 ever

The all-new F-150 lineup includes four engine options for more power, and to meet most any customer need:

• 2.7-liter EcoBoost with standard Auto Start-Stop: New six-cylinder engine design produces 325 horsepower and 375 lb.-ft. of torque. The 2.7-liter EcoBoost 4x2 has a maximum payload rating of 2,250 pounds and maximum tow rating of 8,500 pounds – ideal for meeting mid-range capability requirements – and EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined
• 3.5-liter EcoBoost: Twin-turbo EcoBoost engine delivers V8-like 420 lb.-ft. of torque and 365 horsepower to enable towing of up to class-leading 12,200 pounds – more than enough to handle a fully loaded, three-horse trailer or large boat. Delivers maximum payload rating of 3,180 pounds, and has EPA-estimated ratings up to 17 mpg city, 24 mpg highway and 20 mpg combined
• 5.0-liter V8 with twin independent variable camshaft timing: Improved power and efficiency, delivering 385 horsepower and 387 lb.-ft. of torque. Smart engineering enhancements such as a new long-runner intake manifold, revised intake cam duration and new pulse-separated exhaust manifolds help raise towing capability 1,100 pounds, to a maximum 11,100 pounds, and payload to a best-in-class 3,300 pounds, plus EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings up to 15 mpg city, 22 mpg highway and 18 mpg combined
• 3.5-liter V6 with twin independent variable camshaft timing: 3.5-liter V6 produces 283 horsepower and 255 lb.-ft. of torque. It has a maximum payload rating of 1,910 pounds and maximum tow rating of 7,600 pounds – unsurpassed for standard V6 light-duty pickups  and EPA-estimated ratings up to 18 mpg city, 25 mpg highway and 20 mpg combined

Awards and accolades earned

The 2015 Ford F-150 has won the following awards and accolades:

• Detroit Free Press 2015 Truck of the Year
• Detroit News 2015 Vehicle of the Year
• 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 for high-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloy
• New England Motor Press Association Yankee Cup
• Automotive Fleet Magazine 2014 Fleet Truck of the Year
• Motor Press Guild 2014 Innovation Vehicle of the Year Over $30K
• AutoGuide 2015 Reader's Choice Truck of the Year
• Automobile Journalists Association of Canada 2015 Best New Pickup Truck
• New Car Test Drive 2015 Truck of the Year
• Ruedas ESPN Best Full-Size Pickup Truck

“In addition to these awards, we’re most proud that customers are voicing their strong support too, with 2015 F-150s staying on dealer lots an average of just five days – the fastest-turning vehicle in the Ford product lineup,” said Hinrichs.

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2015 Ford Trend Report Explores Generation Z and How Youngest Consumers Are Shaping View of the Future

• Members of Generation Z – considered the first global generation – are key players in today’s technology-driven culture; these youngest consumers, the oldest of whom are in their teens, already are inspiring attitudes and behaviors among consumers of all ages to enact change for the good
  

• Growing excitement among consumers is expected to drive change in 2015 and beyond – consumers are motivated to buck conventions and set new standards, to reject the stigma of failure, and to embrace new forms of mobility that enable more freedom and creativity
  

• Looking Further with Ford 2015 is a compilation of consumer research, as well as insights gleaned from thought leaders around the world, intended to provide a comprehensive look at micro-trends expected to influence products and brands for 2015 and beyond
  

From the growing influence of young, socially conscious consumers, to a greater acceptance of modern-day rebels and a shifting perspective that de-stigmatizes failure, Ford Motor Company’s third annual trend report suggests 2015 will be marked by a broad desire to enact change for the good. Looking Further with Ford 2015 reveals data and insights about global consumer habits and behaviors expected to shape culture in 2015 and beyond.

A featured trend – Make Way for Gen Z – underpins the full Looking Further with Ford report. Generation Z, which follows the Millennials, is the first truly global generation, born into an on-demand, technology-driven culture. Expected to account for more than 20 percent of the world’s population, these digitally savvy, socially conscious consumers, most of whom are still teenagers, are working to help define the trends of both today and tomorrow.

“While demographics are invariably a factor in futuring work, what’s driving our report for 2015 is this emerging Generation Z consumer, who is already inspiring attitudes and behaviors in consumers of all ages,” said Sheryl Connelly, Ford global consumer trend and futuring manager. “We saw similar traits with Millennials, but Gen Z consumers – being much more connected and aware of the options available to them – are the global go-getters who have a link to each of our 10 micro-trends for 2015.”

Despite looming issues such as climate change, privacy threats, epidemic disease and geopolitical strife – there is optimism in the air. Against this backdrop, Looking Further with Ford 2015 highlights the modern-day rebel working to buck convention and set new standards, as well as people who are more motivated than ever to take risks in their search for success, which is beginning to erode the stigma of failure. In this spirit of determination, new forms of collaborative consumption and mobility are emerging – giving us more freedom to pursue ideas and passions.

How consumer trend insights impact Ford products

In preparing trend reports, Ford experts monitor shifts in social, technological, economic, environmental and political arenas to understand what drives consumer attitudes and behaviors – and how this impacts the automotive category. The insights gathered guide Ford designers and engineers in developing future Ford products, as well as Ford marketers on what to anticipate in terms of the customer shopping and ownership experience of emerging generations.

Looking Further with Ford 2015 focuses on a broad range of micro-trends affecting businesses and consumers, and reflects years of qualitative and quantitative research, as well as collaboration with thought leaders around the world.

“A rich understanding of our customers’ ever-evolving needs, priorities and desires – both today and tomorrow – is key to our everyday business and global product development strategies,” said Connelly. “These trends and insights help us at Ford in our role as an innovator to create products that not only exceed expectations, but push the boundaries of imagination.”

As the Generation Z consumer evolves, Ford is looking at how these behaviors and trends will affect every part of the automotive business – from vehicle development to the experience customers will expect when the time comes to purchase or own a vehicle.

On trend for 2015

The 10 trends Ford expects to influence consumers and brands in 2015 and beyond include:

1. Make Way for Gen Z: With considerable pressure and high expectations, Gen Z’s mantra is simple: “Good things come to those who act.”
   
2. Rally for Renegades and Rebels: Society has always loved risk takers, but the marketplace has never been more receptive to those who push boundaries and break molds.
   
3. Flaunting Failure: The stigma of failure is quickly eroding; in an era of constant change, the only true failure is a failure to try, to improve, to evolve.
   
4. Carryless Movement: Today’s consumers don’t want to carry things and, increasingly, don’t need to. New technologies such as wearable gadgets and smartphone apps are transforming the mechanics of how consumers pay for goods and services, how and where marketers reach their customers, and who people trust with their most valuable information.
   
5. No Strings Attached: In a world where innovation moves so rapidly, no one wants to be left behind with a product that has become outdated or obsolete. The result is an emerging a la carte mentality that trumpets access over ownership.
   
6. Expanding Next of Kin: As traditional families and communities become less the norm, the concept of family is adapting, expanding and evolving in a most personal fashion.
   
7. Give and Take of Privacy: Privacy has become a delicate balancing act, and there is a trade-off between information consumers are willing to share and the benefits they receive in exchange.
   
8. Elusive Health: A decentralized effort to inform consumers about healthier lifestyle habits has led to confusion and a global population getting fatter and sicker. Consumers need a clear signal amid the noise to translate the information into action.
   
9. Escape Artist: In today’s 24/7 culture, the desire to get away mentally and physically remains compelling. People are increasingly seeking out immersive adventures, elevating escapism to a fine art.
   
10. Many Faces of Mobility: In an age of constant innovation, mobility is outpacing the definition of the word as the concepts of transportation and communication converge.
    

Ford SYNC 3 with Applink: AccuWeather

Ford vehicles equipped with Ford SYNC AppLink can now find out the latest forecast on the go via the AccuWeather app as well as weather alerts and the very latest conditions via AccuWeather’s MinuteCast.

Introducing the all-new, 2015 Ford F-150

Your hard work is about to take a giant leap forward. Because the all-new Ford F-150 is here.

This is whole new age of truck. This is legendary toughness and capability, plus exclusive innovations to help you work smarter and think bigger than you ever could before. This is the Future of Tough.

Happy New Year!

Out with the old, in with the new, may you be happy the whole year through!

Happy New Year!