Post-Apocalyptic Movie Extras Know Extras – Like the Fuel Efficiency of the 2016 Ford Focus

Whether it’s on a movie set or out on the town, the 2016 Ford Focus makes a great companion. Who better to talk about its amazing extra features like great fuel economy and a spacious interior than a professional movie extra?

EPA-estimated rating of 26 city/38 highway/30 combined mpg 2.0L Ti-VCT I4 with PowerShift six-speed automatic with selectshift transmission. Actual mileage will vary.

Ford Investing $4.5 Billion in Electrified Vehicle Solutions, Reimagining How to Create Future Vehicle User Experiences

• Ford is investing an additional $4.5 billion in electrified vehicle solutions by 2020, including the new Focus Electric with all-new DC fast-charge capability, which delivers 80 percent charge in an estimated 30 minutes and projected 100-mile range
• The company is adding 13 new electrified vehicles to its product portfolio by 2020; more than 40 percent of Ford’s nameplates globally will be electrified by the decade’s end
• Ford also redefining how future vehicles are created, moving from a features-based product development to a customer-experience-led process, applying insights from social scientists    

DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 10, 2015 – Ford is investing an additional $4.5 billion in electrified vehicle solutions by 2020 as well as changing how the company develops vehicle experiences for customers – all to make people’s lives better by changing the way the world moves.

Ford is adding 13 new electrified vehicles to its portfolio by 2020, when more than 40 percent of the company’s global nameplates will come in electrified versions. This represents Ford’s largest-ever electrified vehicle investment in a five-year period.

On the way next year is a new Focus Electric, which features all-new DC fast-charge capability delivering an 80 percent charge in an estimated 30 minutes and projected 100-mile range – an estimated two hours faster than today’s Focus Electric.

The new Focus Electric, which starts production late next year, also will provide North American and European customers:

• SmartGauge with EcoGuide LCD Instrument Cluster, which offers a multitude of customizable displays that can help the driver see real-time EV power usage to help maximize vehicle efficiency
• Brake Coach, another smart feature that coaches the driver on how to use smooth braking to maximize the energy captured through the Regenerative Braking System. The more energy a driver captures through braking, the more energy is returned to the vehicle’s battery
• Fun-to-drive character, with agile steering and handling engineered into the vehicle to give drivers a more connected feel to the road

Ford’s shift to add electrified vehicle solutions answers increasing global trends calling for cleaner, more efficient vehicles.


Experience-Led Design
 
Ford also is reimagining how to set itself apart in the marketplace by focusing on the customer experience and not just the vehicle itself. The company is changing its product development process to support the shift.

“The challenge going forward isn’t who provides the most technology in a vehicle but who best organizes that technology in a way that most excites and delights people,” said Raj Nair, executive vice president, Product Development. “By observing consumers, we can better understand which features and strengths users truly use and value and create even better experiences for them going forward.”

In addition to traditional market research, Ford is investing in social science-based research globally, observing how consumers interact with vehicles and gaining new insights into the cognitive, social, cultural, technological and economic nuances that affect product design.

“This new way of working brings together marketing, research, engineering and design in a new way to create meaningful user experiences, rather than individually developing technologies and features that need to be integrated into a final product,” Nair said. “We are using new insights from anthropologists, sociologists, economists, journalists and designers, along with traditional business techniques, to reimagine our product development process, create new experiences and make life better for millions of people.”

Next year, Ford is doubling the number of projects that use ethnographic research versus this year.

The team of social scientists already has spent months exploring topics such as the future of luxury transport, how people form relationships with their cars and the role of trucks in the American heartland.

ReD, a social science-based strategy consultancy, has been innovating with consumer goods and pharmaceutical companies for a decade. ReD started working with Ford – its sole automotive client – in 2012.

During the past three years, the team has invested more than 4,000 hours with thousands of vehicle users in more than 25 cities worldwide, taking 80,000 photos, nearly 3,000 hours of video and more than 8,000 pages of field notes, feeding countless insights to improve the product creation process.
“For 70 years, market research has been done by asking people for their opinion. But

Ford has always been fundamentally skeptical about that. Henry Ford used to say, ‘If I asked people what they wanted, they would have asked for a faster horse,’” said Christian Madsbjerg, founder of ReD Associates and author of The Moment of Clarity. “I chose to work with Ford because this approach is in their DNA and is setting the company at the forefront of this advanced and bold process, which is redefining market research and silo-busting the way the company operates.”

Another new twist to the product development process is that designers no longer just sketch products but also full customer experience illustrations that visualize the experience each product is meant to deliver. The series of vignettes define a unique user journey that seamlessly integrates both hardware and software experiences.

This user experience design technique also plays an important role in developing the Ford Smart Mobility plan, which is designed to take the company to the next level in connectivity, mobility, autonomous vehicles, the customer experience and data and analytics.

“As both an auto and a mobility company, we at Ford are going further than just designing the product to move people from point A to point B,” Nair said. “We are considering the way customers interact with our vehicles as a unified experience, looking for ways to excite and delight customers and make their lives better.”

Elle King & Betty Who Take a Drive in a Ford Focus

In the second episode of In Focus, musicians Elle King and Betty Who talk music, body image, and what it means to trust in yourself. Watch as they cruise around in the sporty Ford Focus. Produced by Pitchfork.

Ford Offers Apple Siri® Eyes-Free to Millions of Vehicles Globally

Ford Offers Apple Siri® Eyes-Free to Millions of Vehicles Globally Through SYNC® Software Update

Siri Eyes-Free allows drivers to activate Siri with a long press of the voice recognition button on the steering wheel, similar to how to activate Siri on an iPhone. Drivers can use just their voice to ask Siri for requests including:

• Making phone calls to contacts in their address book
• Looking up phone numbers for restaurants or other points of interest
• Setting a reminder or alarm
• Asking about the weather
• Select and play music
• Audibly send and receive text messages
• Getting directions through Apple Maps

The new software update is available for vehicles equipped with the second generation of SYNC, known as MyFord Touch in North America, ranging from model years 2011 to 2016.

First Compressed Natural Gas and Propane-Capable 2016 Ford F-150 Rolls Off the Line at Kansas City

• 2016 Ford F-150 with 5.0-liter Ti-VCT V8 engine offering gaseous-fuel prep option is rolling off the line at Kansas City Assembly Plant, making it the only light-duty pickup capable of running on compressed natural gas or propane
• Ford has sold more than 60,000 vehicles prepped to run on clean, low-cost compressed natural gas and propane – six times more than all other major U.S. automakers combined – since 2009
• Ford has the broadest portfolio of natural gas and propane offerings, including 2016 F-150 and F-Series Super Duty, Transit and Transit Connect vans and wagons

KANSAS CITY, Dec. 9, 2015 – The first 2016 Ford F-150 with the ability to run on clean-burning compressed natural gas has rolled off the assembly line, making Ford – America’s truck leader – the only manufacturer to offer a CNG/propane-capable half-ton pickup.

The 2016 Ford F-150 with 5.0-liter Ti-VCT V8 engine is available with a factory-installed, gaseous-fuel prep package that includes hardened valves, valve seats, pistons and piston rings so it can operate on natural gas, propane or gasoline through separate fuel systems.

“It’s exciting to see the first F-150s with the CNG/propane-prepped 5.0-liter V8 headed to customers,” said Jon Coleman, Ford fleet sustainability and technology manager. “Whether running on gasoline, gaseous fuel or both, the 5.0-liter V8 F-150 offers hardworking customers terrific towing and payload and now, the ability to operate on alternative fuel.”

When equipped with a bi-fuel CNG/propane engine package, the 5.0-liter V8 F-150 is capable of achieving more than 750 miles on combined tanks of gasoline and CNG, depending on tank size. The Ford F-150 with 5.0-liter V8 has an EPA-estimated rating of 22 mpg on the highway and 18 mpg combined.

Green Car Journal recently named the 2016 F-150 its 2016 Green Truck of the Year^™, in part due to the availability of the gaseous-fuel prep option.

CNG/LPG engine prep from the factory costs $315 before the customer chooses a Ford Qualified Vehicle Modifier to supply fuel tanks, fuel lines and unique fuel injectors. Upfits run approximately $6,000 to $9,500, depending on fuel tank capacity.

Ford offers broadest portfolio of CNG/propane-capable vehicles
 
With production of the 2016 F-150 now under way, Ford Motor Company offers eight factory-available vehicles with a gaseous-fuel prep option – more than any other North American automaker. In addition to F-150 with 5.0-liter Ti-VCT V8, these include:

• F-250 and F-350 Super Duty pickup with 6.2-liter V8
• F-350 to F-550 Super Duty chassis cab with 6.2-liter V8 or 6.8-liter V10
• F-650 and F-750 chassis cab with 6.8-liter V10
• F-53 and F-59 stripped chassis with 6.8-liter V10
• Transit Connect van and wagon with 2.5-liter I-4
• Transit van, wagon, cutaway and chassis cab with 3.7-liter Ti-VCT V6
• E-Series cutaway and stripped chassis with 6.8-liter V10

Benefits of compressed natural gas and propane
 
Compressed natural gas is mainly comprised of methane. It is stored and distributed in hard containers at a pressure of around 3,600 psi. Approximately 85 percent of the CNG used in the United States is produced domestically.

Another benefit of this alternative fuel is cleaner emissions. A vehicle operating on CNG can reduce tailpipe CO₂ emissions by approximately 20 percent compared with the same vehicle running on gasoline.

Propane autogas, also known as liquefied petroleum gas, is a mixture of hydrocarbon gases, most commonly propane and butane. Approximately 90 percent of the United States’ propane supply is produced domestically. 

All-New Ford F-Series Super Duty Brings $1.3 Billion Investment, 2,000 New Jobs to Kentucky Truck Plant

• Kentucky Truck Plant creates jobs and makes investment to help support production of the all-new F-Series Super Duty – the toughest, smartest, most capable Super Duty truck lineup ever
• $1.3 billion investment supports an all-new body shop, facility upgrades and retooling to build the new truck
• Ford has invested more than $1.5 billion in the commonwealth of Kentucky and the city of Louisville since 2014

LOUISVILLE, Ky., Dec. 1, 2015 – Ford Motor Company, America’s truck leader, will create 2,000 new jobs and invest $1.3 billion in its Kentucky Truck Plant to support the launch of the all-new 2017 Ford F-Series Super Duty truck – the toughest, smartest, most capable Super Duty truck lineup ever.

Ford is investing $1.3 billion for an all-new body shop, facility upgrades and retooling to build the new aluminum-bodied Super Duty truck at Kentucky Truck Plant. Add to that the $80 million invested in 2014 to meet growing customer demand for Super Duty trucks and $129 million to support Lincoln MKC production at Louisville Assembly Plant, and Ford has invested more than $1.5 billion in the commonwealth of Kentucky and the city of Louisville in the past two years.

“With the introduction of the all-new Ford Super Duty, America’s best-selling heavy-duty pickup, we expect to continue growing our truck leadership,” said Joe Hinrichs, Ford president of The Americas. “Through this investment, we are continuing to show our commitment to Kentucky and the city of Louisville, as well as bringing to customers industry-leading trucks to help them take care of business and earn a living.”

Kentucky Truck Plant
 
Kentucky Truck Plant produces F-250, F-350, F-450 and F-550 Super Duty pickups and chassis cabs, as well as Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator. The plant has produced more than 5 million Ford F-Series Super Duty trucks since it was introduced in 1999.

“Adding new jobs and more investment at Kentucky Truck Plant not only secures a solid foundation for our UAW members, but also strengthens the communities in which they live, work and play,” said Jimmy Settles, UAW vice president, National Ford Department. “Such success highlights our members’ hard work and dedication to building world-class, quality vehicles like the Super Duty.”

Ford began manufacturing vehicles in Kentucky in 1913 with 11 employees. Kentucky Truck Plant, which opened in 1969, covers 6 million square feet and employs close to 4,400 people.

“This tremendous investment and commitment to new job creation reconfirms the strength of a more than century-long relationship between Kentucky and Ford Motor Company,” said Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear. “We wholeheartedly appreciate Ford’s continued confidence in the commonwealth’s work force and pro-business environment, and we look forward to expanding our relationship in the future.”

Ford 2017 F-Series Super Duty
 
The all-new 2017 F-Series Super Duty pickup and chassis cab lineup is the toughest, smartest and most capable ever.

• Toughest: The all-new, high-strength steel frame; segment-first, high-strength, military-grade, aluminum-alloy body; and stronger axles, springs and suspension create the only Built Ford Tough heavy-duty truck lineup that works as hard as Super Duty customers

• Smartest: Sixteen class-exclusive new features and up to seven cameras make Super Duty the ultimate tow vehicle; adaptive steering technology makes maneuvering easier

• Most capable: Ford-engineered, Ford-built gasoline and diesel engines and transmissions power the all-new Super Duty lineup that tows and hauls more than ever

Super Duty underpins Ford’s commitment to continuously provide advanced powertrains and innovative technologies that answer customer demands. Ford Trucks offer power, toughness and durability, making Ford the top-selling truck brand.

There are five models in the Super Duty lineup: XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch and Platinum. The all-new Super Duty will be built at Kentucky Truck Plant and goes on sale late next year.

Backing Up a Trailer Can Be as Easy as Turning a Knob

Equipped with Class-Exclusive Pro Trailer Backup Assist,TM the Ford F-150 can help you put your trailer exactly where you want it.

In this demonstration, Master Rigger Sean Riley brings a Ford F-150 to a group of guys who specialize at felling trees in narrow spaces. The precision they gain from Pro Trailer Backup AssistTM allows them to back a heavily loaded trailer down a difficult path through a densely wooded area.

Zoë Kravitz & SZA Hit the Road in a Ford Focus | In Focus

Confidence comes standard in the Ford Focus. We brought together the lovely and talented Zoë Kravitz and SZA to cruise around in a 2016 Focus. Watch as they discuss how they stay authentic. Produced by Pitchfork.

Ford Introduces Licensed Line of Trailers, Toy Haulers and Campers to Help Customers Explore America

• Ford is the first original equipment manufacturer to offer an extended line of licensed travel trailers, toy haulers and truck campers
• Ford is working with Indiana-based RV manufacturer Livin Lite, a subsidiary of recreational vehicle industry leader Thor Industries
• Ford and Livin Lite design teams worked together to incorporate unique and inspired Ford design language in the products

LOUISVILLE, Ky. Dec. 3, 2015 – Ford Truck customers looking to explore America’s open roads, national parks and attractions can now take the comforts of home with them with an all-new lineup of Ford licensed and approved toy haulers, travel trailers and slide-in campers.

“Exploring America is in our customers’ DNA and recreational vehicles are part of Ford’s history, so these new camping options are great for our adventurous customers,” said Mark Bentley, Ford Licensing manager. “Ford is an industry leader in towing technology, so it was only natural for Ford to license its name and designs in this industry.”

The new Ford-branded truck campers and travel trailers are licensed and built by Indiana-based Livin Lite, a subsidiary of industry leader Thor Industries. Known for using strong, lightweight aluminum alloy in its products, Livin Lite’s Ford offerings will also be made out of the advanced material to save weight and offer resistance to rust and rot.

Ford slide-in truck campers will be offered for 6- and 8-foot truck beds, while the first travel trailers and toy haulers will be offered in 22- and 24-foot lengths. Additional products, including longer fifth-wheel trailers and shorter pop-up campers, are also planned. All products feature Livin Lite’s advanced materials and a two-year limited warranty.

“Licensing our name and design language to Livin Lite was an easy decision,” said Bentley. “Their use of advanced materials and innovation mindset makes them an excellent fit with the Ford brand. We are confident customers will be impressed with the unique, bold designs and comfortable features offered in the Ford RV line.”

The RVs were designed by Livin Lite in conjunction with Ford Truck Design. The two teams worked together over the past 15 months to create several attractive recreational vehicles that are unique to Ford. A striking front nose with an F-Series-inspired front window, F-Series-style wheels and unique Ford Blue Oval side graphics are among the key exterior features distinguishing the Ford offerings from competitors.

Interior styling cues from the F-Series Lariat, including unique leathers and stitched Ford Blue Ovals in seat cushions, ensure a stylish and tough impression.

Ford Truck campers will be available through certified Livin Lite dealers starting in early 2016, while the travel trailers and toy haulers will be available by the second quarter of 2016.

From Salt Spreaders to ATV Platforms: Ford Tough Tests All-New Super Duty Cargo Boxes with Aftermarket Equipment

• Ford engineers tough tested the high-strength, military-grade, aluminum-alloy cargo box of the all-new 2017 Ford F-Series Super Duty with popular aftermarket equipment, ranging from glass racks to salt spreaders to ATV carriers
• Testing was performed virtually using supercomputers to predict robustness and with maximum-loaded aftermarket equipment over some of the most extreme road surfaces available, from potholed durability courses to off-road terrain
• The all-new 2017 F-Series Super Duty is the toughest, smartest and most capable Super Duty ever, leveraging advanced materials to reduce weight and featuring all-new, segment-exclusive smart technology to help increase customer productivity, comfort and convenience

DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 24, 2015 – From virtual torture testing in supercomputers to purpose-built potholes, Ford has tough tested the all-new Super Duty – the toughest, smartest, most capable Super Duty ever – to make sure it’s ready for popular aftermarket cargo box equipment that ranges from glass racks to salt spreaders.

For the first time, the Super Duty body uses high-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloy, which is more dent- and ding-resistant than the outgoing steel cargo box and not subject to red rust corrosion.
The backbone of Super Duty is an all-new, fully boxed frame composed of more than 95 percent high-strength steel that is up to 24 times stiffer than the previous frame.

The new truck line also features heavier-duty four-wheel-drive components, driveline, axles and towing hardware than the current Super Duty.

Together, high-strength steel and high-strength aluminum alloy help reduce weight by up to 350 pounds. Ford is reinvesting additional weight savings everywhere it counts to give customers more towing and hauling capability than ever before.

“Ford Super Duty customers depend on their trucks to work hard every day across a variety of jobs,” said Kirk Leonard, vehicle integration engineer for Ford. “We drove prototype vehicles over the durability roads of the Ford Proving Grounds fitted with common aftermarket accessories to test the fitment and capability of our toughest pickup box ever.“

Before the first truck hit the roads at Ford’s Michigan Proving Grounds, plenty of upfront work was accomplished virtually using supercomputers to predict and engineer cargo box robustness.

“Our team of vehicle integration engineers worked together to develop a unique design approach with the Ford Truck Body Engineering team to drive optimized panel shape, added reinforcements and up-gauged materials into the pickup box – all of which were proved beneficial in our evaluation,” explained Leonard.

During the design of the new truck, Ford body structure engineers ran countless hours of supercomputer simulations with various aftermarket equipment examples to predict box load performance. The focus was to ensure the all-new 2017 Super Duty cargo box was as tough or tougher than previous models.

“Our modeling analysis enabled us to improve the structure and strength of the box in the design phase of the truck,” said John Comiez, Ford body structure engineer.

Throughout the evaluations on extreme durability roads and off-road terrain, and even after overloading select equipment, the new box design stood up to the abuse, run after run. Upon completing the challenge, the vehicles were examined in the lab by the team. No concerns were found in either the supporting structure or the mounting surfaces.

The all-new Super Duty will be built at Kentucky Truck Plant, and goes on sale late next year.