Ford STEAM Lab Challenges Students, Rewards High-Tech Thinking and Creativity During Hackathon

• Ford STEAM Lab hosted a hackathon for 100 middle school students to introduce them to software development and skills needed to be high tech entrepreneurs
  

• Students from Patrick Henry Middle School in Woodhaven, Mich., took top honors, winning $15,000 for their school and $12,500 in scholarships
  

• Ford and UAW extended to all student participants the opportunity to continue their coding education at a week-long Henry Ford College summer camp
  

DETROIT, March 30, 2015 – Given the chance to be software designers, 100 middle school students at the Ford STEAM Lab Hackathon invented a range of mobile applications to make learning easier, from catching up on missed assignments, to studying math and music through gaming – all the while earning $42,500 in awards and scholarships.

The two-day event that wrapped up Saturday challenged students from five middle schools in the Detroit metropolitan area to learn the basics of software coding, and then produce, or “hack” an application to help them in school.

“This event was designed to give students a voice in their education while learning software coding skills needed to be technology entrepreneurs,” said Shawn Wilson, manager, Multicultural Community Engagement, Ford Motor Company Fund. "What students taught us is just as valuable -- utilize existing technology, develop flexible schedules so they can continue learning on their own time, and improve ways to communicate outside the classroom.”

Ford is joining with the United Auto Workers union to enable all students who participated in the Hackathon to attend free of charge a summer software coding class offered by Henry Ford College. The one-week long course will be held at the school’s Dearborn campus. During the class, students will build their own Android apps from scratch and experience how they are placed on the Google Play market.

Participating schools and the Hackathon results are:

• First Place – Patrick Henry Middle School, Woodhaven, Mich.
  
  App: Second School. What it does: Allows students, parents, and teachers access to students' curriculum away from the classroom, ability to track their school progress in real time, and one-to-one communication between parents and teachers.
  
  Winnings: $15,000 for the school and $2,500 scholarships to each of the five team members to continue their education after high school.
  
  

• Second Place – Clippert Academy, Detroit.
  
  App: Bookctionary. What it does: A mobile reading assistance application focused on interactive reading comprehension through quizzes, audio assistance, and eBook downloads.
  
  Winnings: $7,500 for the school.
  
  

• Third Place – Simpson Middle School, Flat Rock, Mich.
  
  App: Stems Root Builder. What it does: A learning application focused on keeping students up to date with their course work when they are out of school.
  
  Winnings: $5,000 for the school.
   

• Fourth Place – Fisher Upper, Detroit
  
  App: Exstatic. What it does: An app that combines learning music and math together through a gaming and creative platform.
  
  Winnings: $2,500 for the school.
  

The event occurred at the Ford Resource and Engagement Center in Detroit, where it was part of a live broadcast by MSNBC as part of its Growing Hope series. After learning coding skills on the first day, student ideas were judged by a panel that included Van Jones, #YesWeCode founder, and environmental and civil rights advocate; Stephen Henderson, Pulitzer Prize-winning Editorial Page Editor of the Detroit Free Press and co-host of Detroit Today on WDET; and Joy Reid, national correspondent, MSNBC.

Students also heard from Big Sean, a Detroit native who has become a multiplatinum winning musician and founder of the Sean Anderson Foundation. Big Sean took a break from his tour in Japan to speak via Skype about the importance of technology and the role of the Internet in future jobs. “I can honestly say the Internet really helped me become the artist that I am today,” he said.

Ford STEAM Lab, an educational program from the Ford Motor Company Fund, works to spark student passion for technology entrepreneurship and careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). To produce the hackathon Ford collaborated with:

• #YesWeCode, an Oakland, Calif.-based organization that targets low-opportunity youth and provides them with the necessary resources and tools to become world-class computer programmers.
  
• Level Playing Field Institute, an educational organization based in Oakland, Calif., committed to eliminating the barriers faced by underrepresented people of color in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).
  
• Sisters Code, a Detroit organization dedicated to helping women succeed in STEM-related fields.
  
• Grand Circus, a company based in Detroit that provides training and other skills necessary to work in technology companies.
  
• National Dropout Prevention Center/Network, a national organization that works on strategies to increase the graduation rate in America's schools.
  

Ford Motor Company Fund, the philanthropic arm of Ford Motor Company, invests more than $8 million a year in scholarships and other education initiatives. In addition to the Ford STEAM Lab, Ford Fund educational programs include Ford Blue Oval Scholars, Ford Next Generation Learning, Ford College Community Challenge and Ford Driving Dreams Tour.

2015 Ford Mustang wins “Vincentric Best Value in America” Award for Sports Cars

DEARBORN, Mich., March 25, 2015 – For the 6^th straight year, the Ford Mustang has won the Vincentric Best Value in America Award for Sports Cars. 

Based on statistical analysis of several key costs of ownership including insurance, financing, maintenance and depreciation, the 2015 Mustang came out on top of the stack.

The Vincentric Best Value in America Award is the latest in the 2015 Mustang’s trophy cabinet, joining other prestigious awards earned since launch, including:

• Detroit Free Press Car of the Year
• Cars.com Shoppers’ Choice Award
• Kiplinger’s Best New/Redesigned Car
• Edmunds.com Most Popular Awards: Entry Sport Car
• 2014 SEMA Show “Hottest Car”
• 2015 Automobile All-Star
• Car and Driver 10Best
• Road and Track “Performance  Car of the Year” Finalist
• “North American Car of the Year” Finalist
• “World Car of the Year” Finalist

About the Ford Mustang

Since its launch in September, the all-new 2015 Mustang has been the best-selling sports car in America.

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.

The Ghost of Shelby

A legend remembered, a legend reborn. The Ford Mustang GT350 returns to the streets.

GT350 is powered by a unique, high-revving flat-plane crankshaft 5.2-liter V8 engine that will produce more than 500 horsepower – the most powerful naturally aspirated Ford production engine ever.

Advanced materials, MagneRide dampers, aggressive brakes and finely tuned aerodynamics push the performance of Mustang to previously unmatched levels.

Mongolian Horsepower | Ford Mustang, in Ordos, Inner Mongolia

Here's how we celebrate the Year of the Horse. A man and an all-new 2015 Ford Mustang – unleashed into the concrete wild.

All-New Ford Focus RS Makes U.S. Debut in New York

• All-new Focus RS makes North American debut at New York International Auto Show introducing advanced performance technologies for ultimate hot hatch experience; pioneers innovative Ford Performance All-Wheel Drive with Dynamic Torque Vectoring, industry-first drift mode, additional drive modes
  

• Third-generation high-performance hatch features specially engineered 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine producing more than 315 horsepower, most powerful RS brake system ever with Brembo front calipers
  

• Ford Focus RS will be at dealerships in the United States in spring 2016
  

DEARBORN, Mich., March 25, 2015 – The all-new Ford Focus RS is set to debut on U.S. soil at the 2015 New York International Auto Show. Focus RS pioneers innovative Ford Performance All-Wheel Drive delivering blistering cornering speed for thrilling performance and unbridled driving enjoyment for enthusiasts in North America for the first time.

The high-performance road car introduces advanced performance technologies, and is the first Ford RS equipped with selectable drive modes – including industry-first drift mode as well as launch control.

The third-generation high-performance hatch features a 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine delivering well in excess of 315 horsepower, along with the most powerful Ford RS braking system ever. Its dramatic exterior design offers optimized aerodynamics and cooling, with 9 percent less drag over the previous model.

“Customers have begged for the Focus RS to come to the United States for years,” said Raj Nair, group vice president, Global Product Development, Ford Motor Company. “And now we can say that they are getting one of the most innovative, powerful and best-looking RS cars ever. That is special.

“The RS line has a proud history of technical breakthroughs,” Nair added. “It’s a great example of our passion for innovation through performance, and creating vehicles that make people’s hearts pound.”

The all-new Focus RS is the first model that will be produced for all markets at Ford’s Saarlouis, Germany, manufacturing plant beginning late this year, with sales in North America beginning in spring 2016.

Innovative Ford Performance All-Wheel Drive offers unmatched handling

Focus RS leverages innovative Ford Performance All-Wheel Drive with Dynamic Torque Vectoring to deliver a new level of handling capability and driver enjoyment – combining outstanding traction with unmatched agility and cornering speed.

The system is based on electronically controlled twin clutch packs on each side of the rear-drive unit. The control unit continuously varies front-to-rear and side-to-side torque distribution to suit the driving situation – monitoring inputs from multiple vehicle sensors 100 times per second. A maximum of 70 percent of the drive torque can be diverted to the rear axle. Up to 100 percent of available torque can be sent to each rear wheel delivering the torque-vectoring capability that has a dramatic impact on handling and cornering stability.

In cornering situations, the rear-drive unit pre-emptively diverts torque to the outer rear wheel based on steering wheel angle, lateral acceleration, yaw and speed. This torque transfer has the effect of “driving” the car into a bend – achieving improved turn-in and stability while virtually eliminating understeer.

The system is tuned to deliver exceptional grip – with lateral acceleration exceeding 1 g – along with exciting cornering speed and acceleration out of a bend. With neutral and adjustable at-limit handling and the ability to achieve controlled oversteer drifts at the track, Focus RS delivers the ultimate fun-to-drive experience.

“This all-wheel-drive system is a breakthrough technology – capable of delivering supreme cornering and handling at the limit,” said Dave Pericak, director, Global Ford Performance. “We ripped up the rulebook that says all-wheel-drive hatchbacks aren’t fun to drive, and created a car that will surprise and reward in equal measure.”

To deliver optimum driving dynamics, Ford Performance All-Wheel Drive is calibrated alongside the car’s advanced Electronic Stability Control, in particular, the brake-based torque-vectoring system that works in parallel with torque-vectoring all-wheel drive.

Other exclusive chassis features include a sport suspension with stiffer spring rates and more efficient bushes and antiroll bars than those found in Focus ST, and two-mode switchable dampers, which offer a firmer setting for track use. Specially tuned electric power-assisted steering, in combination with an optimized front suspension knuckle design and shorter link arms delivers connected and responsive steering with outstanding feel.

Ford worked with Michelin to develop a choice of high-performance 235/35R-19 tires to complement the driving dynamics Focus RS offers – a standard Pilot Super Sport for everyday use and, for the first time, an optional Pilot Sport Cup 2 for enhanced dynamics at the track.

The car’s exterior design supports the dynamic objectives as well. Aerodynamic optimization of the front splitter, rear spoiler and underbody eliminates lift forces, resulting in balanced performance with zero-lift front and rear for optimum high-speed handling and stability.

With a drag coefficient of 0.35, the shape of the new Focus RS is 6 percent more aerodynamic than the previous model, and with its more compact frontal area, the car generates 9 percent less drag – improving high-speed performance and reducing fuel consumption.

Industry-first drift mode heads up advanced performance technologies

The all-new Focus RS offers advanced performance and driver-assist technologies to help ensure its extreme driving capabilities are accessible and easy to use.

The driver can select from four different drive modes to configure the car for optimum performance in road or circuit driving conditions – normal, sport, track and a special drift mode.

Using a switch alongside the gear lever, the driver can choose settings for all-wheel drive, damper control, Electronic Stability Control, steering and engine response, as well as exhaust sound.
Industry-first drift mode is specially calibrated for all-wheel drive to modify torque distribution to help the driver achieve controlled oversteer drifts at the track.

Launch control configures the car’s chassis and powertrain systems to deliver the fastest possible acceleration. The driver selects launch control from the cluster menu, engages first gear, applies full throttle and releases the clutch. The car then delivers optimum drive – distributing torque through the all-wheel-drive system, maintaining maximum torque using the turbo overboost function, managing traction control and setting the dampers.

To achieve maximum acceleration through the gears, a performance shift light in the instrument cluster alerts the driver when the optimum upshift point of 5,900 rpm approaches, flashing if the engine hits the 6,800 rpm limit.

“Focus RS is exhilarating to drive,” said Pericak, “a car offering performance that’s accessible to all. It’s easy and enjoyable to use every day.”

For enhanced braking performance in hard driving at the track, Focus RS features 13.78-inch ventilated front discs – up from 13.23 inches on the previous model. Lightweight aluminum four-piston monobloc Brembo calipers are painted distinctive RS blue with a Brembo logo available.

To help minimize fade under sustained track use, brake cooling is maximized through dedicated cooling ducts fed from the front fascia, twin “jet tunnels” in the underbody and airflow guides on the lower suspension arms. The front discs feature aerodynamically optimized ventilation fins for enhanced cooling.

Unique powertrain for high performance

Projected to deliver well in excess of 315 horsepower, the Focus RS 2.3-liter EcoBoost shares its fundamental structure with the all-aluminum four-cylinder engine in the all-new Mustang. What’s different is that the RS engine features a comprehensive package of design changes.

Increased output is generated by a new low-inertia twin-scroll turbocharger with larger compressor that delivers significantly greater airflow, along with a much bigger intercooler to maximize charge density. Engine breathing is enhanced through a less restrictive intake design, and a large-bore high-performance exhaust system with electronically controlled valve in the tailpipe helps optimize the balance of back pressure and noise output.

Engine cooling has been given the highest priority. Engineers created additional space within the front of the car to house a significantly larger radiator pack – the biggest ever fitted to a Focus – that provides the level of cooling demanded for hard driving. The cylinder head is produced from an upgraded alloy material capable of withstanding higher temperatures, and is mounted on a more robust head gasket with improved thermal capability. Stronger high-tensile cast-iron liners are used for the cylinder block.

With its high-efficiency design featuring direct fuel injection, twin independent variable camshaft timing, advanced turbocharging and Auto Start-Stop, this EcoBoost engine delivers exceptional power and respectable fuel consumption.

The six-speed manual is optimized for the enthusiast driver with a shorter gear shift and revised mechanism to deliver faster, more accurate shifts. Both transmission and clutch are upgraded with stronger components to cope with the engine’s increased torque output.

Ford Performance engineers have tuned the car to deliver a rewarding and sporty sound character in spirited driving, with signature Focus RS burbles and pops.

“This very special 2.3-liter EcoBoost unit will inspire drivers as they feel the surge of the turbo, and reward them as they take it to redline – all delivered with a stirring sound guaranteed to put a smile on their face,” said Pericak.

High-performance design for stunning looks with optimum function

The exterior is dramatic and functional. Designers worked closely with Ford Performance to ensure functional attributes were achieved, focusing on aerodynamic downforce and balance and the cooling demands of the powertrain and brakes. The result is a powerful, muscular character.

“This is the ultimate Focus – stunning to look at and entirely fit for its purpose,” said Joel Piaskowski, Design director, Ford of Europe. “RS models have always been striking, high-performance cars where function is paramount, and Focus RS is true to that heritage.”

Focus RS, based on the standard model, features a powerful new front end look, with a bold upper trapezoidal grille above a deep splitter incorporating the largest possible openings for engine cooling. Bi-xenon HID headlamps offer brilliant illumination in all road conditions. The wide, muscular stance is emphasized by lower wings and large outboard openings on each side of the car, which feed the brake cooling ducts and house vertically mounted fog lamps.

At the rear, the fascia panel is dominated by an exceptionally large diffuser that optimizes airflow from under the car. The distinctive roof spoiler is integrated with the car’s silhouette through body-colored side panels featuring a subtle embossed RS logo.

The dynamic side profile is emphasized by sculptured rocker panels and bold wheel lips that house a choice of multi-spoke 19-inch RS alloy wheels, including the high-performance, lightweight forged design finished in low-gloss black that offers enhanced strength and impact resistance with a weight savings of 1.3 pounds per wheel.

The high-performance character is reflected in the cockpit, with heavily bolstered, partial-leather Recaro sport seats as the centerpiece. A soft-feel flat-bottomed steering wheel, leather-covered rim, alloy pedals and unique instrument graphics in the main cluster reinforce the performance character. Gauges atop the center console display turbo boost pressure, oil temperature and oil pressure.

The distinctive blue RS theme is echoed throughout the cabin in the stitching on the seats, steering wheel, floor mats, interior trim, colored graphic on the gear shift and in the RS logo itself on the seats, steering wheel and door scuff plates.

The interior features the redesigned Focus control layout, with 8-inch capacitive touch screen with SYNC® 3 voice connectivity for audio, navigation, climate control and mobile phones.
Four striking colors for the exterior include Focus RS-exclusive Nitrous Blue, a vibrant four-coat metallic finish, as well as Stealth Gray, Shadow Black and Frozen White.

Rich heritage of innovation and performance

Since the first Ford RS models took to the road, the marque has been an essential element of Ford DNA – delivering technological innovation and performance for road and track. Dating back to the early days of the company’s success in Rallye Sport, the first models established the RS reputation for advanced technology and driving exhilaration.

“The all-new Focus RS is true to the core RS principles of innovative engineering and high performance,” said Joe Bakaj, vice president, Product Development, Ford of Europe. “Driving enthusiasts have always aspired to own RS vehicles, and this heritage inspires everyone at Ford. Now, enthusiasts in North America will have a chance to become an owner of this remarkable performance hatch.”

The original 215-horsepower Focus RS from 2002 featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and advanced limited-slip differential. The second-generation model sent 305 horsepower through its front wheels with a groundbreaking RevoKnuckle suspension design.

The all-new Focus RS is the latest vehicle to be unveiled as part of a new era of Ford performance that will bring to customers globally more than 12 performance vehicles through 2020. In addition to pleasing enthusiasts, RS vehicles help deliver the company’s One Ford plan for profitable growth, product excellence and innovation in every part of its business.

Ford Brings REPREVE to the 2015 F-150

What if we could redirect plastics from landfill and use them to create innovative materials, and then put them in the all-new Ford F-150, part of Ford F-Series, America’s best-selling truck?​ We could make a big difference.

Since 2012, Ford Motor Company has worked with Unifi to bring environmentally responsible, high-performance REPREVE fiber to many Ford vehicles. Now, this innovative fiber is available in the in the all-new F-150. By substituting with this recycled material, Ford will divert more than five million plastic bottles from landfills this year. 

Ford is the only automaker to use REPREVE, made from 100 percent recycled materials including plastic bottles, in its vehicles. Ford is currently using REPREVE in five vehicles around the world, making it a truly global material, and it represents Ford's larger commitment to reduce, reuse and recycle as part of the company’s global sustainability strategy to lessen its environmental footprint.

“By using REPREVE in the all-new Ford F-150, we are reconfirming our commitment to using renewable and recyclable materials in our vehicles,” said Carol Kordich, lead designer, global sustainability materials strategy development. “We are always looking for ways to incorporate more innovative and sustainable materials into our vehicles.”

Ford Pushes Interior Design Forward, Testing Innovative Research Tools

• Ford is conducting testing to collect valuable customer insights from emotional, logical and discovery perspectives
• This same approach influenced the interior design of the all-new Ford GT supercar, which is based on three principles – clarity of intent, innovation and connection
• Ford GT interior design goes beyond automotive; Ford’s global design studios created several non-automotive design objects, including a racing sailboat, that will be on display at leading furniture design event Salone del Mobile, April 14-19, in Milan, Italy

DEARBORN, Mich., March 19, 2015 – Ford is working with new research and measurement methods and high-tech tools to collect emotional and logical customer insights and learn more about how people visually discover new cars and trucks. New techniques include eye tracking, measuring where eyesight lingers most and biometrics.

“Vehicle interiors have witnessed one of the biggest evolutions across the history of cars in recent years,” said Raj Nair, Ford Motor Company group vice president, Global Product Development. “Not only have we introduced a great deal of useful new technology into our cars and trucks, we consistently are adding better materials, improved design and increased features across the board, from high-end vehicles to entry-level segments. All of this leads to a focus on design languages that not only convey the right messages, but deliver on an enhanced user experience.”

Research shows that a great-looking interior design can attract new buyers, but if that design isn’t thought through to accommodate various customer needs, the result can be a less satisfying experience.

Data collected in Ford’s experimental research is guiding the Ford design team to shape the best customer experience possible.

This is innovation in the design process as well as in the tools used. Research will happen up front, while responses to color, materials, and any other critical element will continue to be assessed through customer clinics at a later stage of the process.

All-new Ford GT interior design

Ford followed a similar approach in designing the interior of the all-new Ford GT – a two-door supercar that serves as a technology showcase for top EcoBoost^® performance, aerodynamics and lightweight carbon fiber construction.

First, the main components of the Ford GT interior were identified, then the design was pushed forward, introducing new principles and innovative design solutions.

“Over the past few years, we have gained some incredible momentum with our designs,” said Moray Callum, Ford Motor Company vice president, Design. “As we move forward, we need to build on and evolve what we have achieved so far to continue to deliver exciting and fresh solutions. The interior design of the Ford GT builds on existing DNA and pushes it forward.”

Three guiding principles drive Ford GT interior design:

• Clarity of intent – highlighting focused areas of functionality 
• Innovation – pushing the boundaries of innovation to develop new designs and keep changing the way the world moves
• Connection – establishing a connection with the driver through more compact, more intuitive technology

These fundamentals come to life in the Ford GT interior through design solutions that visually communicate:
 

• Fit for purpose – technology is concentrated and organized in clear islands with an ergonomic logic. All essential functions are within reach without the driver having to move his hand position
• Lean and lightweight – the instrument panel features a two-tier step design with floating wing. It makes use of the negative space while calling attention to the edge detailing. The result is a feeling of spaciousness
• Perceived efficiency – soft materials and hard technology are carefully balanced so that all touchable materials are soft and all technology areas are hard, conveying laser precision across the instrument panel

Beyond automotive

The thinking behind the interior design of Ford GT extends beyond the automotive world, serving as inspiration for Ford’s display at this year’s Salone del Mobile. The world’s most prestigious international furniture and design event takes place April 14-19 in Milan, Italy.

Designers across Ford’s global design studios applied the new approach to the creation of unique non‑automotive objects including a racing sailboat, musical instruments and a football table. Just as with global design review for a vehicle, proposals were vetted by the leadership team to ensure alignment with fundamental principles, feasibility and efficient use of resources.

“The guidelines developed for the design of the Ford GT interior can lead to very different solutions within and beyond the automotive field,” said Callum. “We opened the challenge to our team to submit proposals for Milan and the response was overwhelming. Selecting the finalists that will be on display was difficult.”

Ford Recognized with Golden Gear Award for 111-Year History of Engineering Innovation

• Washington Automotive Press Association recognizes Ford Motor Company for its 111-year history of engineering innovation with Golden Gear Award
• Henry Ford honored for his vision to transform the automobile
• Ford committed to driving innovation in every part of its business
   

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 19, 2015 – Ford Motor Company and its founder Henry Ford were honored at the Washington Automotive Press Association’s 30th Anniversary Gala with the organization’s Golden Gear Award. The company and its founder are being recognized for their outstanding contributions to the automotive industry.

Jim Holland, vice president, Vehicle Components and Systems Engineering, Ford Motor Company, was on hand to accept the award.

“On behalf of all the men and women of Ford Motor Company, I’d like to thank the Washington Automotive Press Association for the Golden Gear Award,” said Holland. “Henry Ford left us with quite a legacy, and the Ford team continues driving innovation through every part of our business to improve people’s lives. This is what has always defined us as a company. Through innovation, we are changing the way the world moves.”

Henry Ford didn’t just set out to build a strong business by introducing compelling products – he was passionate about making life better for millions of people. He may be best known for the invention of the affordable car that put the world on wheels, but equally notable is the mark he made on society – perfecting the moving assembly line to help usher in another industrial revolution and doubling wages of factory workers, which helped give rise to the middle class.

Carrying on the legacy of its founder, Ford Motor Company is driving innovation in every part of its business. This includes:

• EcoBoost^® engine technology that is now in more than 5 million Ford vehicles, helping people everywhere save gas
• Advanced, lightweight materials that make America’s best-selling pickup truck, F-Series, even more capable and efficient
• Industry-first inflatable rear safety belts that provide additional protection for rear seat passengers, as well as other safety innovations that help millions of people avoid accidents

Earlier this year the company announced its Ford Smart Mobility plan to use innovation to take it to the next level in connectivity, mobility, autonomous vehicles, customer experience and big data. Ford is also conducting 25 mobility experiments around the world this year to test breakthrough transportation ideas to create better customer experiences, more flexible user-ship models and social collaboration that can reward customers.

The experiments seek to address four global megatrends – explosive population growth, an expanding middle class, air quality and public health concerns, and changing customer attitudes and priorities – challenging today’s transportation model and limiting personal mobility, especially in urban areas.

Henry Ford believed a good business makes excellent products and earns a healthy return, and that a great business does all of this while creating a better world. That vision continues to drive the people at Ford Motor Company each day.

The Unwelcome Passenger | Car Stories

Most first cars come with the bare essentials: brakes, seat belts, wheels, etc. This guy’s came with a houseguest.

Drifter's Playground | Ford Mustang, in Ordos, Inner Mongolia

Here's how we celebrate the Year of the Horse. A man and an all-new 2015 Ford Mustang – unleashed into the concrete wild. Watch what happens, behind the scenes, when Vaughn Gittin Jr. climbs in the driver's seat of a 2015 Mustang in Ordos, Inner Mongolia.

Kansas City Assembly Plant Comes on Line as Second U.S. Factory Building All-New Ford F-150

• 2015 Ford F-150 starts production at Kansas City Assembly Plant; along with three shifts in operation at Dearborn Truck Plant, Ford is now producing even more units of the toughest, smartest, most capable F-150 ever
• All-new F-150 is turning more than four times faster than the overall full-size pickup truck segment; In addition to producing all F-150 models and cab configurations, Kansas City exclusively builds specialty F-150s with 8-foot cargo boxes and heavy payload packages to meet the needs of commercial fleet customers
• Kansas City Assembly Plant facilities transformed with the latest in manufacturing technology to build the first mass-produced truck in its class featuring a high-strength, military-grade, aluminum-alloy body and bed  

CLAYCOMO, Mo., March 13, 2015 – Ford today marks the official start of production of the all-new 2015 F-150 at Kansas City Assembly Plant, which joins Dearborn Truck Plant in building the toughest, smartest, most capable F-150 ever.  

This means Ford has expanded production of the first mass-produced light-duty pickup truck with a high-strength, military-grade, aluminum-alloy body. In addition to producing all F-150 models and cab configurations, production at Kansas City Assembly Plant now includes F-150s with an 8-foot cargo box and heavy payload package to meet the needs of commercial fleet customers.

“The all-new F-150 has surpassed our expectations – setting new standards for full-size truck capability, technology and efficiency,” said Joe Hinrichs, Ford president, The Americas. “With production starting at Kansas City Assembly, we are better poised to start meeting growing customer demand for our pickup.”

The all-new F-150 is off to a strong start. In January, F-Series had its strongest sales month since 2004 – Ford’s best sales year ever for F-150. Retail sales increased 7 percent in February. These numbers make F-Series one of Ford’s fastest-selling vehicles, at just 18 days to turn on dealer lots – well below the light-duty full-size pickup truck average of 105 days.

F-150 is part of the Ford F-Series lineup. Now in its 67th year, F-Series has been the best-selling vehicle in America for 33 consecutive years and America’s favorite truck for 38 years.

“The rollout of the all-new Missouri-made F-150 cements our position as America’s truck manufacturing headquarters and marks a historic moment that has been years in the making,” said Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon. “Six years ago, we made a commitment that the vehicles of the future would be built right here in the Show-Me State, and with today’s launch of the 2015 Ford F-150, we are delivering on that promise.”

Kansas City Assembly Plant renovation
 
In 2011, Ford announced a $1.1 billion investment to retool and expand Kansas City Assembly Plant to support production of both F-150 and the Transit full-size van family. 

Similar to the work Dearborn Truck Plant received, 13 weeks were spent upgrading Kansas City Assembly Plant with the latest in advanced materials and forming and joining technologies to support F-150’s innovative manufacturing process. 

Upgrades to the facility include: 

• More than 900 new workers added to ensure the new 2015 F-150 is built with the highest level of quality and craftsmanship
• All-new body shop with more than 500 new robots:
• Robots to conduct state-of-the-art joining technology using riveting and structural adhesives – resulting in a tougher, more durable truck and a quieter, nearly spark-free manufacturing environment
• More compact robots to install roof and door panels and to transfer the light-weighted truck to final assembly – resulting in a smaller manufacturing footprint
• Robots with cameras to scan truck body to ensure the highest quality standards are met

• Updated paint shop with dirt detection technology and increased robotic paint automation for a durable, best-in-class exterior appearance
• Innovative production processes to support installation of new truck features such as class-exclusive 360-degree camera with split-view display 
• Rough-road test course to replicate extreme, real-life road conditions to ensure delivery of quiet, more durable truck

“The hardworking men and women of UAW Local 249 and Kansas City Assembly Plant are proud to be part of the F-Series tradition – one that continues to set the standard by which all American trucks are measured,” said Jimmy Settles, UAW vice president and director, National Ford Department. “But the real contribution goes far beyond these walls; the addition of 900 new jobs and more than $1 billion in financial investment provides tremendous stability to the Kansas City, Missouri community, for which the entire UAW-Ford family can be proud.”

Combined, Kansas City Assembly and Dearborn Truck facilities will have capacity to produce more than 700,000 Ford F-150 pickups per year for availability in 90 markets globally.

Toughest, smartest, most capable F-150 ever
 
The all-new F-150 is the toughest, smartest, 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.

The 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 it 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 returns EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined. Actual mileage will 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 when driving slowly
• Integrated loading ramps enable easy loading of ATVs, motorcycles and mowers
• BoxLink^™ cargo management system 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

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

• 2015 North American Truck/Utility of the Year
• Detroit Free Press 2015 Truck of the Year
• Detroit News 2015 Vehicle of the Year
• AAA Top Pick 2015 Pickup Truck
• Motor Trend’s Truck Trend Magazine 2015 Pickup Truck of the Year
• Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Truck and 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

Ford Marks Production Milestone As 5-Millionth EcoBoost-Equipped Vehicle Rolls Off Assembly Line

• Ford Focus 1.0-liter becomes 5-millionth EcoBoost^®-equipped vehicle manufactured
• Ford now producing more than 200,000 EcoBoost engines per month worldwide
• Ford Fusion, Escape and F-150 are the best-selling turbocharged midsize car, utility and truck sold in the United States

WAYNE, Mich., March 17, 2015 – Ford has hit a new production milestone with its fuel-efficient EcoBoost^® engine technology. Late last week, the 5-millionth vehicle with a Ford EcoBoost engine rolled off the assembly line at Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Michigan.

It was just less than three years ago that Ford celebrated production of its 500,000th EcoBoost-equipped vehicle. Now, a Ford Focus equipped with 1.0-liter turbocharged engine represents the 5-millionth Ford EcoBoost engine produced.

EcoBoost was launched in 2009 on Ford Taurus SHO with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. That year, 14,439 EcoBoost engines were manufactured.

In 2010, the first full year of EcoBoost production, 62,704 vehicles with the technology were built.  The 2-millionth EcoBoost engine rolled off the line at Louisville in October 2013.

Production of the 5-millionth EcoBoost-equipped vehicle coincides with the first full year in which customers can choose EcoBoost-equipped engines on 100 percent of Ford’s passenger vehicles sold in the United States. The fuel-saving technology is now available in every region the company serves.

This most recent production milestone constitutes another step forward in the One Ford plan to drive innovation across the company’s global product portfolio, and continues to deliver on Ford’s commitment in its Blueprint for Sustainability.

Award-winning EcoBoost engine technology

The 1.0-liter three-cylinder EcoBoost is a multiple award-winning engine, earning Engine Technology International’s International Engine of the Year honors three years in a row. No other automaker has won the award three straight years. The 1.0-liter EcoBoost has also earned a Ward’s 10 Best Engines nod two years running.

Other members of Ford’s global EcoBoost family include the 1.5-liter, 1.6-liter, 2.0-liter and 2.3-liter four-cylinder engines, and the powerful 2.7-liter and 3.5-liter V6 engines.

Ford Focus, a model for EcoBoost adaptability, adoption

The new 2015 Ford Focus exemplifies the frugal yet rewarding choice EcoBoost engine technology provides new car shoppers. In its most efficient configuration, the 2015 Focus SFE with 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine returns EPA-estimated fuel economy of 42 mpg highway.  The new Focus offers a remarkable combination of features in its class, including lane-keeping system, active park assist and standard rearview camera.

Focus ST, with its 252-horsepower 2.0-liter EcoBoost, has a top speed of 154 mph, yet still returns EPA-estimated fuel economy of 32 mpg highway.

Earlier this month, Ford debuted its newest EcoBoost overachiever at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show. The 2016 Ford Focus RS, a global all-wheel-drive performance car equipped with 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine technology, is projected to produce more than 315 horsepower from only four cylinders. This high-performance hatch promises thrilling performance and unbridled driving enjoyment for enthusiasts worldwide, including North American customers for the first time.

Production of Focus RS with 2.3-liter EcoBoost is planned to begin later this year.

Ford Cleveland Engine Plant Begins Production of the New Twin-Scroll 2.0-liter EcoBoost and 2.3-liter EcoBoost Engines

• Production officially begins on the all-new twin-scroll 2.0-liter EcoBoost and 2.3-liter EcoBoost engines for North America at Cleveland Engine Plant in Ohio, marking the first time Ford has built these engines in the U.S.
• Twin-scroll 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine is available in all-new Ford Edge; 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine is available for Ford Explorer, Ford Mustang and Lincoln MKC
• New Edge and Explorer launching this year when utility sales are growing at three times the rate of the global vehicle industry

CLEVELAND, March 6, 2015 – Ford today announced the official production start of the all-new twin-scroll 2.0-liter and 2.3-liter EcoBoost engines for North America at its Cleveland Engine Plant in Ohio. The announcement marks the first time these engines are being produced in the U.S.
The twin-scroll 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine is available in the all-new Ford Edge, launching in first quarter of 2015. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine is available in the all-new Ford Mustang, Explorer and Lincoln MKC.

“With more than 4 million Eco Boost-powered vehicles on the road today, Cleveland Engine has been at the forefront of our plan to provide our customers with fuel-efficient, affordable engines,” said Bruce Hettle, Ford vice president of North America Manufacturing. “The hardworking team at Cleveland Engine is proud to build two of the most technologically advanced engines on the market today.”

In 2013, Ford invested nearly $200 million and added 450 new jobs to support production and rising consumer demand for the EcoBoost engine. The company made the move to assemble engines regionally to help optimize production capabilities around the world.

Production of the twin-scroll 2.0-liter and 2.3-liter EcoBoost engines for North America were previously based in Valencia, Spain. The investment in Cleveland shifted North American production to Ohio, leaving Ford’s Valencia Engine Plant as the exclusive production location of 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine for Ford of Europe-built vehicles. Valencia will continue to machine and ship components for both engines to North America,

Cleveland Engine Plant also builds the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine and 3.7-liter V6 rear-wheel drive application. The Ohio facility employs more than 1,300 people and has produced more than 1 million Eco Boost engines since 2009 that have been used to support Ford operations in North America, Mexico, Europe and Asia Pacific.

EcoBoost leadership

As the cornerstone of Ford’s global engine strategy to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, EcoBoost, introduced in 2009, can deliver significantly better fuel economy than larger-displacement engines. EcoBoost uses smaller overall engine size combined with turbocharging, gasoline direct injection and variable valve timing for the power customers want and the fuel economy they need.
EcoBoost is now available on 100 percent of the 2015 light-duty Ford lineup in North America, and Ford produced more than 1.6 million EcoBoost engines globally in 2014, up more than 30 percent from 2013. More than 190,000 EcoBoost engines now are produced every month, up 90 percent from 2013. In 2014, annual global EcoBoost engine capacity reached approximately 2.3 million units.  

Global Utilities Sales Growth; Edge and Explorer Launching in 2015

Utility vehicles are the fastest-growing segment globally – up 135 percent since 2009. Utilities account for roughly 20 percent of overall market globally. By 2020, utility vehicle sales are expected to reach 23 percent of the global industry.

“With the new 2.0 and 2.3-liter EcoBoost engines featured in the all-new Edge and Explorer, Ford is well-positioned to benefit from the rapidly growing utility vehicle segment,” said Mark LaNeve, Ford vice president of U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “Utility sales are growing at three times the rate of the global vehicle industry.”

Ford has been the No. 1 brand of utility vehicles in the U.S. for four straight years. In 2014, the company sold more than 1.4 million utility vehicles around the world, up 11 percent compared with the previous year.

Edge is a technology showcase featuring including adaptive steering, enhanced active park assist, side parking sensors and a front 180-degree camera. It is offered with the 2.0-liter or a 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine.

The new Explorer is a significant update to the SUV icon that defined the segment when it launched in 1990. Along with a new look and the new engine 2.3-liter I-4 EcoBoost, Explorer new features include: front and rear 180-degree wide angle cameras with washers; enhanced active park assist with perpendicular park, parking side sensors; smart-charging front-and-rear USB ports; and a hands-free kick-activated lift gate.

Early Data Indicates Universal Passion for Mustang Extends to Colors as Iconic Pony Car Goes Global; Red, Black Rule

• As all-new Ford Mustang officially arrives in global markets for the first time, customers worldwide are opting for red and black as their top exterior color choices
  

• Approximately 1.1 million Mustangs configured online by pony car enthusiasts throughout Europe; more than 18,000 consumers in China signed up to take all-new Mustang for a test spin
  

• U.S. Mustang sales up 32 percent in February – making it the best-selling sports car in America
  

DEARBORN, Mich., March 12, 2015 – Red and black clinch the top spots as the most popular exterior paint colors for the first global Mustang, according to initial consumer data.

Mustang demand has been high, with the car reaching dealer lots in the United States late last year and China in early 2015. It’s set to go on sale in Europe midyear, with nearly 1.1 million pony cars configured on Ford’s European websites just a month after ordering banks opened.

Passion for the car is universal, but trends are beginning to surface based on customer data that provide an early glimpse into regional similarities and differences among Mustang enthusiasts worldwide.

In China and Europe, Race Red clinches the top spot for exterior paint color choice, with Absolute Black in a tie for first in Europe, according to configurator data. Nearly 35 percent of Mustang orders in China are for Race Red, while black is the No. 1 color in the United States.
Some regional highlights to note:  

United States

• With white the top color choice in the United States overall, Mustang bucks the trend; black remains the top Mustang color, followed by Magnetic Metallic and Ruby Red
  
• Mustang sales up 32 percent in February, making it the best-selling sports car in America with the launch of the all-new model last fall
  

China

• With Mustang now on sale, 35 percent of orders specify Race Red; Oxford White is the second-most popular color at 20 percent, followed by black at just under 20 percent
  
• More than 5 million consumers visited the Ford site to learn more about Mustang; more than 18,000 requests for Mustang test drives logged in China
  
• Awareness of Mustang is growing, and this has resulted in a powerful ripple effect on consumers’ perception of Ford; one in 12 Chinese consumers are aware of Mustang, and of those who not yet are, nearly 40 percent are registering a more favorable opinion of Ford
  

Europe

• One month after being made available to order, almost 1.1 million Mustangs have been configured on Ford’s European websites
  
• The top colors are Race Red and Absolute Black – each accounting for 20 percent of models configured across Europe
  
• Race Red and Absolute Black occupy the No. 1 and No. 2 spots in each of the five biggest markets in Europe except for the United Kingdom
  
• Deep Impact Blue is third-most popular color in Europe; in the United Kingdom, it’s second after Race Red, and in Italy, Deep Impact Blue is tied with Race Red, behind Absolute Black
  

Fans around the world have been waiting 50 years to drive the iconic Ford Mustang. Now they’re getting their chance, and it’s noteworthy that universal passion for the car is underscored by the colors customers everywhere are choosing to dress it in.

U.S. News & World Report: 2015 Ford Fusion Hybrid honored as Best Hybrid Car for Families

For the fourth year straight, Ford Fusion Hybrid has been named U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hybrid Car for Families. Fusion Hybrid leverages advanced vehicle electrification technology to provide a stylish, roomy, fun-to-drive family sedan. The 2015 model offers an impressive portfolio of driver-assist and convenience technologies based on sensors, cameras and radar that enable driver and passengers to enjoy a more relaxed and comfortable experience on the road. The award is based on professional automotive reviews, safety and reliability ratings, seating and cargo volume, and the availability of family-friendly features. Click here for more on the U.S. News & World Report award.

2015 Ford Fiesta

The 2015 Ford Fiesta features a new front and rear design.

Meet the Female Engineers Driving Ford

In celebration of Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day, several of our leading female engineers share what they would say to inspire young women and girls to enter the STEM field.

“It’s OK to be feminine, and to be who you are. You don’t have to act like a man to be in a male-dominated field and relate to men.”

Ford Named a 2015 World’s Most Ethical Company by Ethisphere Institute; Only Automaker to Earn Designation

• Ford named to Ethisphere Institute’s 2015 list of World’s Most Ethical Companies^® – the only automaker to earn the recognition
• Ethisphere honors companies for leading in ethics and compliance; corporate citizenship and responsibility; culture of ethics, governance and leadership; innovation; and reputation
• A company’s reputation for ethics and trust plays a role in customer purchase decisions, research finds

DEARBORN, Mich., March 9, 2015 – Ford Motor Company is being named today to Ethisphere Institute’s 2015 list of World’s Most Ethical Companies^®.

The honor comes at a time in which the way a company conducts its business is viewed as every bit as important as the products and services it provides, new research shows.

“This award celebrates doing business the right way, and making the right choices every day,” said Ford Motor Company Executive Chairman Bill Ford. “Ethics and corporate citizenship are important factors that affect a company’s reputation and success, and we are proud Ford is the only automaker to have received this honor for six consecutive years.”

The World’s Most Ethical Company assessment is based on a framework developed by the Ethisphere Institute to assess an organization’s performance in an objective, consistent and standardized manner. The honor is given based on top ratings in five categories – ethics and compliance; corporate citizenship and responsibility; culture of ethics, governance and leadership; innovation; and reputation.

“The World’s Most Ethical Companies embrace the correlation between ethical business practice and improved company performance,” said Timothy Erblich, Ethisphere chief executive officer. “Earning this recognition involves the collective action of a global work force from the top down. We congratulate everyone at Ford for this extraordinary achievement.”


The honor correlates with research showing a reputation for ethics and trust plays a role in consumers’ purchase decisions. Last year, according to the 2015 Harris Poll Reputation Quotient, 53 percent of the U.S. public learned more about a company before doing business with the organization. More than one third of the respondents decided not to do business with a company based on the perception of a negative reputation.

Ford sees this trend shaping consumers of all ages – especially younger customers. Generation Z members born after 1993 are 54 percent more likely than their millennial counterparts to say they want to have an impact on the world, and these consumers do business with companies that share their values, according to a study from research firm Sparks & Honey.

For more information about the methodology and to view the complete list of the 2015 World’s Most Ethical Companies, visit http://ethisphere.com/worlds-most-ethical/wme-honorees/.

All-New 2015 Edge Showcases Ford's Best Technology, More Driver-Assist Features, Improved Performance, Craftsmanship

• 2015 Edge is a showcase of Ford innovation; from a new design that excites to technology features that comfort, the all-new Edge sets a benchmark for Ford utility vehicles
• Available driver-assist technologies include enhanced active park assist, adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support, 180-degree front camera with washer, standard rear camera, glove box-mounted airbag system, inflatable rear safety belts and Ford’s unique hands-free liftgate
• 2015 Ford Edge features a standard 2.0-liter EcoBoost^® engine; new Sport model powered by most advanced EcoBoost yet – a 2.7-liter V6; Titanium series joins lineup 

The all-new Ford Edge demonstrates what happens when a proven leader gets even better. The original crossover utility vehicle from Ford has been completely reworked for 2015, and is now loaded with more technology, higher levels of craftsmanship and greatly improved vehicle dynamics. By every measure, the all-new Ford Edge is a better vehicle.

When launched in late 2006, Edge helped to define the crossover utility vehicle segment in North America, the biggest such market in the world. With a car-based design rather than traditional truck-based SUV underpinnings, Edge delivered better on-road comfort, fuel efficiency and overall driving dynamics. It was proof a utility vehicle could meet the demanding needs of everyday commuters.

The 2015 Edge – slated to begin reaching Ford showrooms in North America this spring – is all-new from wheels to roof, designed to reset the standard in the two-row utility vehicle market. It has been reimagined with a stronger, more athletic shape, retooled to meet higher expectations for quality, and reengineered to add more features and technologies to provide a more rewarding, engaging driving experience. The all-new Edge will be sold in more than 100 markets across the globe.

“The original Edge was our first entry into the world of crossover utilities – a technologically advanced vehicle that was the perfect blend of sedan comfort and efficiency with SUV functionality,” said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. “Now, we are building on that success, building on the emotional appeal of the vehicle by offering more of the technology our customers want in a package that meets the highest expectations for quality and craftsmanship.”

With the all-new Edge, Ford is also building on its global utility vehicle leadership, having delivered four consecutive years of record utility vehicle sales. In 2014, the company sold an all-time-high 1.4 million utility vehicles in markets worldwide – up 11 percent from 2013.

In North America, Ford was the top-selling utility vehicle brand for a fourth consecutive year in 2014, and posted strong performance in other markets as well. Ford Kuga sales jumped 31 percent over 2013 levels in Europe, for an all-time best-ever sales year. In China, Ford utility vehicles are hot, with Explorer sales for 2014 more than double 2013 levels, and Kuga and EcoSport sales gaining 42 percent. Edge sales climbed 20 percent in China last year. 

Production of the 2015 Ford Edge began at Oakville Assembly, near Toronto, in February. Following its initial launch in North America, the all-new Edge heads to markets in Europe, South America and Asia Pacific.

Dynamic all-new body and suspension
 
The 2015 Edge will deliver the confident, smooth driving experience customers expect from Ford. 
“The all-new Edge has been remade in every single detail – always keeping in mind the customer who expects something distinctive and powerful,” said JD Shanahan, chief program engineer for Edge. “With a structure more rigid than ever and a suspension tuned to the highest global standards, the 2015 Edge is a high-tech utility that delivers a special driving experience customers will feel from their initial moments behind the wheel.”

Central to the improved driving dynamics is an entirely new body structure and redesigned front and rear suspension developed to better isolate road imperfections and absorb noise without compromising handling.

The front-wheel-drive Edge retains a MacPherson-type front suspension, but features a sophisticated, entirely new integral-link independent rear with coil springs and a 23-millimeter antiroll bar. The advanced new system has been tuned to deliver a more dynamic, engaging ride customers will feel immediately. 

Ford development tests indicate a 20 percent improvement in roll control and damping in the all-new Edge. Steering feel is improved 30 percent, with parking effort reduced 30 percent thanks in part to the new electric power-assisted steering.

The use of more high-strength steel, including boron steel in the B-pillars, results in a solid body structure that provides a far better platform for the new suspension to work. The all-new Edge is 26 percent stiffer in reacting to bending forces and 14 percent stiffer reacting to twisting forces over the 2014 model.

This means less noise, vibration and harshness characteristics – giving Edge customers a quieter, more substantial ride in a vehicle nicely suited for the everyday commute but ready to have fun when the road opens up. 

Two new engines, three total powerplants to choose from
 
In North America, the all-new Edge features three engine options, two of which are new powerplants – a standard twin-scroll 2.0-liter EcoBoost^® four-cylinder and a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6. A naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine is available. All models are equipped with dual output exhaust and a six-speed automatic transmission.

The twin-scroll 2.0-liter EcoBoost, making 245 horsepower and 275 lb.-ft. of torque, is significantly improved over the previous 2.0-liter EcoBoost. Beyond efficiency advantages, this new engine provides more capability. Edge equipped with 2.0-liter EcoBoost can be ordered with newly available all-wheel drive and a towing package capable of hauling a 3,500-pound trailer. (In 2014, the four-cylinder Edge was front-wheel drive only. No trailer tow package was offered.)

Among a host of changes to the 2.0-liter EcoBoost is the twin-scroll design enabling optimized camshaft timing for improved engine performance and reduced turbo lag. A new, lighter engine block casting along with new aluminum balance shaft assembly shaves six pounds from the engine’s gravitational weight.

Other changes include lighter pistons; a newly designed, integrated exhaust manifold; and a new, high-pressure direct-injection fuel system for finer fuel atomization. These upgrades pave the way for an increased compression ratio of 9.7:1, up from 9.3:1, for improved overall fuel efficiency.

When equipped with the new 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, the 2015 Edge is expected to be quicker in 0-60 mph acceleration than the 2014 model. EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings are still among the best in the segment, with the front-wheel-drive Edge returning 20 mpg city, 30 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined.

On the other side of the engine spectrum is Edge Sport and its exclusive, all-new 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine that provides an exceptional combination of power and efficiency. The new V6 delivers a small increase in horsepower over the previous 3.7-liter V6 engine, and a 25 percent increase in torque – for a total of 315 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque. Peak torque is available at 2,750 rpm, far lower in the performance band than the 2014 model’s 4,000 rpm, for a better performance feel. 

A 1.0-second improvement in 0-60 mph acceleration is expected, with 45-65 mph acceleration also expected to be greatly improved – making Ford Edge Sport a top performer in the segment. 

The front-wheel-drive Edge Sport returns EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 18 mpg city, 27 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined. EPA-estimated ratings for the all-wheel-drive model are 17 mpg city, 24 mpg highway and 20 mpg combined. Even with improved performance, fuel economy estimates are either equal to or better than the 2014 Edge Sport. 

The twin-turbocharged V6 in the all-new Edge Sport is a world-class engine, providing a remarkable combination of advanced materials expertly applied. It draws its design from the best of the efficient Ford EcoBoost lineup, and takes cues from the unmatched durability of Ford Super Duty Power Stroke^® diesel engine technology.

The 2.7-liter EcoBoost employs compacted graphite iron in its cylinder block – same as that used in the 6.7-liter Power Stroke. This advanced block allows for a stiff and compact design that returns exceptionally refined noise, vibration and harshness control. The compacted graphite iron core is mated with a die-cast aluminum engine-block ladder frame and composite oil pan – saving weight by applying advanced materials where they are needed most.

Edge Sport features front and rear antiroll bars that are 15 percent stiffer than the base model, and unique rear monotube dampers that are larger in diameter. The coil springs are 10 percent thicker. With improved damping and control, Edge Sport offers 15 percent to 20 percent better overall road-holding capability – giving the driver more control, sharper steering and greater confidence. 

Paddle-activated SelectShift puts driver in control
 
All three Edge engines are mated to Ford’s SelectShift^® six-speed automatic transmission featuring standard paddle-shift activation, giving drivers the ability to manually select gears via race-inspired paddles on the steering wheel.

The SelectShift transmission features two modes of operation – drive and sport. Sport mode offers a more aggressive shift pattern, allowing the engine to rev higher during acceleration and hold lower gears longer to support spirited, fast-paced sessions. 

Unlike many paddle-shift systems, the Edge six-speed automatic is always “live in drive,” so the driver does not have to select sport mode to enable operation. 

The available intelligent all-wheel-drive system for the new Edge is on-demand and seamless – there are no knobs or switches to activate. An electronically controlled clutch, which can engage faster than a human can blink, transfers power between front and rear axles, sending up to 100 percent of the power to the front or rear.

New level of technology for better driving
 
The 2015 Edge is a technology leader for Ford, with a suite of standard and available technologies designed to improve both the driving experience and comfort level for vehicle occupants. Technology features offered for the first time include enhanced active park assist, side parking sensors and a front camera with washer.  

“The new Edge is a rolling showcase of Ford’s commitment to developing and offering the most advanced technology in the business,” said Shanahan. “Our customers have embraced technology – from smartphones to wearable devices that track their health – it’s a part of their lives. We want to make technology a bigger part of their driving experience as well.”

Key standard and available technology features include:

• Active Grille Shutters: Help improve aerodynamics, particularly at highway speeds   
• Adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support: Uses radar to detect moving vehicles directly ahead and change the cruising speed if necessary
• Air Curtains: Create a high-pressure curtain of air alongside the vehicle using smart duct work, improving aerodynamics at high speed
• Blind Spot Information System: BLIS^® uses radar to trigger a warning when another motorist is in the driver’s blind spots
• Cameras: New 180-degree front camera with washer; standard rear camera
• Cross-traffic alert: Uses radar to help alert drivers to oncoming traffic when backing out of a parking space

• Enhanced active park assist: Builds on Ford parallel parking technology and includes a system to guide the vehicle into a perpendicular parking space. The system can also steer the vehicle into and out of a parallel parking space
• Forward and reverse sensing systems: Provide audible alerts designed to help drivers avoid obstacles when parking
• Hands-free liftgate: Simple kick motion below center of rear bumper allows customer to unlock and raise liftgate
• Heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel: Amenities make occupants more comfortable, and every drive more enjoyable
• Lane-keeping system: Alerts driver to steer vehicle back into its lane if it has drifted

• Side parking sensors: Using algorithms, sensors measure speed and steering wheel angle to warn drivers of obstacles on either side of the vehicle during parking or low-speed maneuvers
• SYNC^® with MyFord Touch^®: Now available for more trim levels; standard on Edge Sport and Titanium series

 

Safety technologies available on Edge include:

• Active glove box knee airbag: Advanced new design uses glove box front to cushion the knees of the front passenger in a crash. A pliable, injection-molded plastic bladder is sandwiched between inner and outer glove box door panels. On impact, a small inflator fills the bladder, extending the glove box outer door panel toward passenger’s legs
• AdvanceTrac^® with Roll Stability Control^™: Uses sensors to measure the roll rate of the vehicle and predict its roll angle. Based on this information and measurements from other vehicle dynamics sensors, the system can adjust engine torque and brake pressure at all four wheels to help the driver maintain control of the vehicle
• Curve Control: Uses the same sensors as Roll Stability Control to detect and measure roll rate, yaw rate, lateral acceleration, wheel speed and steering wheel angle to help drivers follow their intended path by slowing the vehicle more efficiently while maneuvering a curve
• Inflatable rear safety belts: Advanced restraint system combines attributes of safety belt and airbag technologies to reduce head, neck and chest injuries in frontal crashes for passengers in second-row outboard seating positions by distributing crash force energy across five times more of an occupant’s torso than a traditional safety belt

Higher standards for quality and craftsmanship
 
The 2015 Ford Edge is available in four trim levels, including SE, SEL, Sport and – for the first time – a Titanium series to meet customer demand for more premium offerings. All pricing detail is available at www.ford.com. 

“We really focused on meeting the highest craftsmanship standards in developing the all-new Edge,” said Michele Bartlett, Ford marketing manager for large cars and utilities. “The idea was to create not just a high-quality exterior and interior, but to give the customer a holistic, first-class experience.

“The Titanium trim level has been a real success story for Ford – particularly in products such as Fusion and Escape,” Bartlett added. “Our customers are telling us, ‘We are interested in technology and an exceptional look and feel.’ Titanium delivers that.”

The 2015 Ford Edge represents a significant step forward in both material and visual quality. Throughout, seams are tighter and more consistent, with the overall design executed to reduce visual cutlines. The team worked out the smallest of details – rethinking how the front doors meet the instrument panel, simplifying merging points and reducing potential alignment issues.

The dashboard and center console are carefully designed and shaped to look like one thin, streamlined piece. A central 8-inch LCD touch screen supporting SYNC with MyFord Touch is now more widely available. 

Storage areas have been improved throughout the cabin, with a covered media bin on top of the center stack; an open, pass-through storage area beneath the climate controls; an open storage area on the instrument panel, below and to the left of the steering wheel; and large pockets on each door. 

Thanks in part to smart design work and thinner, more supportive next-generation seats, the Edge interior is larger and more spacious. Adding to the openness, Edge will continue to offer one of the largest sunroofs in the business – Ford’s panoramic Vista Roof^® measuring 47.7 inches front to rear.

The 2015 Edge gains 3.9 inches in length and 1.3 inches in height, making it 188.1 inches long and 68.6 inches tall. Wheelbase increases nearly an inch, growing from 111.3 inches to 112.2 inches.

The all-new Edge cabin is larger than the outgoing model in nearly every measure. There is additional headroom for all passengers, and legroom for second-row passengers increases 1.0 inch. Cargo capacity also is up, with 39.2 cubic feet of space behind the second row of seats – 7.0 cubic feet more than the previous model. With the second row folded, there is now 73.4 cubic feet of cargo capacity in the all-new Edge – a gain of 4.5 cubic feet.

Quieter than ever
 
The all-new Edge is not only more refined and comfortable, it’s also quieter.

In wind tunnel tests, Edge proves to be more than 1 sone (sound perception measurement) quieter than its predecessor. This enhanced quietness is due to better sealing of the body, insulation improvements, and powertrains that are less noisy and better isolated from the cabin.

Standard for 2015 on all models is acoustic windshield glass, along with acoustic underbody panels and wheel well liners – reducing road and wind noise and helping improve aerodynamic performance. Titanium models are even quieter, incorporating acoustic glass on driver and passenger side doors.

When equipped with the twin-scroll 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, vibration levels at idle are 2 decibels quieter than the previous model. In moments of heavy acceleration, the revamped engine emits a quieter, more refined sound due to multiple changes including an acoustic wrap for the intake manifold, an upgraded heat shield and modified oil pump. On all models, a 360-degree hood seal contributes to overall vehicle quietness.

Edge Sport’s Active Noise Cancellation technology manages and enhances the sound of its powerful 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine. Using three microphones strategically placed throughout the cabin, the system is able to generate opposing sound waves directed through the audio system – enhancing overall cabin ambience.

Even the selection of tires for the all-new Edge results in a better on-road experience. Larger tires are often associated with unpleasant road noise, but the 20-inch tires available for Edge Sport and Titanium trim levels are a full 2 decibels quieter.

Built to be the best
 
A $700 million (U.S.) renovation for Ford’s Oakville Assembly Complex has delivered significant improvements to the facility where production of the all-new Edge is under way. Updates include more than 250 new, more advanced robots, many of which are installed to work to the most demanding levels of precision – with duties that require thousandths-of-an-inch accuracy to ensure repeatable, high-quality assembly.

“Some unique technologies have been incorporated into the plant – all designed to bring a higher level of quality at a rate that is capable of being repeated,” said William Cowell, Oakville Assembly plant manager. “The higher level of complexity in the build process means employees are interfacing with more advanced systems and technology that can significantly improve quality in ways our customers will be able to see and feel.”

Oakville Assembly has been recognized for its environmental efforts. The plant is the first North American assembly plant to go zero waste-to-landfill, and recently upgraded to LED lighting across the facility, replacing 7,000 lights for an estimated 15 million kilowatt-hours of energy saved per year.