All-New Ford Focus Sharpens Dynamic Driving With Available SE Sport Titanium Handling Packages

• All-new 2012 Ford Focus range elevates driving dynamics with standard electric power-assisted steering (EPAS), Control Blade rear suspension and torque vectoring control, making the vehicle feel more responsive and agile in corners
• Top-of-the-line Ford Focus Titanium model features standard sport-tuned suspension in addition to offering an optional Titanium Handling Package with 18-inch alloy wheels and summer performance tires
• Mid-range Ford Focus SE offered with available SE Sport Package featuring alloy wheels, sport seats, rear disc brakes, piano black grille, unique interior appointments and five-speed manual transmission

DEARBORN, Mich., Oct. 25, 2010 – The all-new Ford Focus will take dynamic driving to new levels with optionally available handling packages on SE and range-topping Titanium model.

Driving dynamics and responsive handling have been elevated across the entire all-new Focus range for 2012. All Focus models feature standard specifically tuned electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) system, independent Control Blade rear suspension and torque vectoring control. These features combine to make Focus more agile and confidence-inspiring for enthusiast and normal drivers alike.

“Our enthusiast customers told us exactly what they want in an all-new Focus,” said Mark Rushbrook, Ford vehicle dynamics manager for the 2012 Ford Focus. “They asked us to give Focus more responsive handling, and they asked that we develop and offer a factory-engineered handling package with beefier suspension hardware. We’ve done just that, fine-tuning a pair of available packages for mid-level SE and up-range Titanium models.”

The automotive enthusiast community should appreciate the sharpened handling offered in the volume-series Focus SE four-door sedan and five-door hatchback. The SE Sport Package features sport-tuned suspension, 16-inch aluminum wheels, sport seats, four-wheel disc brakes, piano black grille, metallic interior trim accents, leather-wrapped steering wheel and standard five-speed manual transmission.

Focus SE Sport Package four-door models add a rear spoiler, while all SE Sport Package models with the PowerShift™ dual-clutch transmission add SelectShift Automatic™ functionality for manual override gear selection. SE Sport Package is the only mid-level Focus model to offer premium Yellow Blaze Metallic Tri-coat paint, as well.

Two additional wheel packages are offered with the Focus SE Sport Package. A 16-inch machined alloy wheel with painted pockets is offered as an upgrade, while serious enthusiasts may wish to add the 17-inch machined and painted alloy wheel option.

The range-topping Focus Titanium model is fitted with the sport-tuned suspension as standard equipment. This includes stiffer springs and dampers.

Enthusiast buyers specifying a Focus Titanium sedan or hatchback can add the Titanium Handling Package with optimized suspension components, special 18-inch alloy wheels, low-profile summer performance tires and a trunk-mounted full-size spare.

“Focus enthusiasts spoke and we listened, providing them with additional packages,” said Rushbrook, an active amateur Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) racer. “Serious drivers looking for even more grip in the corners will really appreciate the SE Sport and Titanium Handling Packages.”

North American Ford Focus hatchback and sedan with optional handling packages will go on sale – in SE and Titanium trim series levels – at Ford dealerships in early 2011.

Would You Go Electric? New Ford Web Site Gives Consumers The ABC’S Of Electrified Vehicle



• New Ford Web site, www.fordvehicles.com/technology/electric/, offers video, text and diagrams to help consumers understand differences in the technologies of electrified vehicles
• Electrification is an important piece of Ford’s overall sustainability strategy designed to deliver affordable fuel economy options for consumers
• Over the next two years, Ford will introduce the Transit Connect Electric, a small commercial van (2010), the Ford Focus Electric passenger car (2011), two next generation lithium ion battery powered hybrids (2012) and a plug-in hybrid (2012).

DEARBORN, Mich., Oct. 28, 2010 – What’s the difference between a BEV and a PHEV? Or why is an HEV considered an electrified vehicle? As electrification options are increasing for consumers, many are looking for information to understand how the new technologies work. To help provide jargon-free answers to electric vehicle questions, Ford has launched a new web site, www.fordvehicles.com/technology/electric/. The site offers the basic information consumers need to understand electrified vehicle and technology choices.

The site is part of Ford’s efforts to educate consumers about the range of electrified vehicles and help potential buyers determine which electrified option might best suit their specific driving habits and needs. Consumers who visit the site will be able to review videos, text and cutaway diagrams that illustrate the differences between hybrid, plug-in hybrid and pure battery electric vehicles like the Ford Fusion Hybrid, Ford Focus Electric and planned Ford plug-in vehicles.

The site does not offer opinions on which vehicle technology is better. Rather, it provides clear explanations about how gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery electric vehicles work to help consumers decide which vehicle could be the best option for them.

Electrification is one aspect of Ford’s overall product sustainability strategy that includes a range of fuel-efficient and alternative-fuel technologies designed to offer consumers a portfolio of vehicle choices.

“We know consumers are excited about the variety of electrified vehicles coming to market over the next two years, but we have heard many of them say they don’t truly understand the differences between these options,” said Nancy Gioia, director of global electrification for Ford. “Educating consumers on electrified vehicle options will be crucial to satisfying their needs as they decide whether to buy a hybrid, plug-in hybrid or pure battery electric car.”

The site explains the differences in each type of vehicle, and details the technology that makes them possible, including battery chemistry, charge ports and regenerative braking.

“We want our customers to be informed and educated,” said Gioia. “Most of our customers are used to traditional gasoline engines powering their cars, so this technology is new to them. This site gives them the tools to learn about our electrified vehicles with resources they are most comfortable with – text, graphical fact sheets, videos or a combination of the materials.”

The web site also provides a list of Ford vehicles available with hybrid technology today, including the Ford Fusion Hybrid, which set the standard for fuel economy in midsize sedans with 41 mpg city.

Over the next two years, Ford will deliver at least five new electrified vehicles. The Ford Transit Connect Electric small commercial van arrives in late 2010, the Ford Focus Electric will be introduced in late 2011, followed by two next-generation lithium-ion battery-powered hybrid electric vehicles and a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle in North America in 2012.

Electrified vehicles are one part of Ford’s broader strategy to offer a wide range of environmentally friendly, advanced technology solutions to improve fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions affordably for customers around the world.

The Hardest Worker - The All-New Ford Ranger

Ford's team of world class engineers has been traveling the globe to put the all-new Ranger to the test. Meet the people and the places: Total control in ice and snow in Sweden, unrelenting off-road conditions in Australia, powering through extremes in the US, staying cool in heat and dust in Dubai, and driver and passenger comfort on the road in Thailand.

Ford F-150 New 5.0L Ti-VCT V8 Engine

The 2011 F-150 is coming with your choice of four new engines. And everyone is a leader. With an available 5.0L V8, also with TiVCT design, the new 5.0L engine delivers power and capability. V8 Program Manager Mike Harrison explains why.

Ford F-150 New EcoBoost Engine

The 2011 F-150 is coming with your choice of four new engines. And everyone is a leader. And for the latest in innovative powertrain design, coming in early 2011 is the EcoBoost™ engine combining the efficiency of Direct Injection technology and the thrust of Twin Turbocharging. That means great fuel efficiency and V8 performance.

Ford F-150 New 3.7L Ti-VCT V6 Engine

The 2011 F-150 is coming with your choice of four new engines. And everyone is a leader. The new standard in F-150 fuel economy and performance is the 3.7L V6 with advanced twin independent variable-cam (Ti-VCT) technology.

2011 Super Duty - Quiet Diesel

The new Power Stroke® Diesel has a unique inboard exhaust design to help improve noise, vibration and harshness characteristics. Mike Rowe finds out just how quiet it is.
• Reduced noise
• Less vibration

Nor Cal Ford Truck Club Annual Luau Event Was A Big Hit!

Our thanks to all the vendors and dealers who attended our Annual October Luau Event on Thursday, October 21st at the Woodbridge Golf and Country Club in Woodbridge, CA right next to Lodi. There were 18 vendors showing their products and services. Food was the best and the service at this venue is always superb. Becky and I won the trip to Hawaii and we will be enjoying that little getaway with our son Max.

Our thanks go to Ford Motor Company for all of their wonderful support. They have supported this club since its inception and continue to provide encouragement and personnel, as well as financial support. Our thanks go especially to the vendors who have been superb partners in helping this club along. And, thank you to all the Ford dealers who support us with attendance at these events. Speaking as President of the Nor Cal Ford Truck Club, I say that we appreciate all of you very much. Thank you.

Above are some photos of the event taken by John Lawless who is associated with the National Ford Truck Club. Thank you John for your help.

Versatility, Capability of Ford F-Series Trucks To Shine In 2010 SEMA Spotlight

• Customized versions of Ford F-150 and Super Duty will show their stuff at the Ford stand, displaying the variety of modifications customers can make at the 2010 SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) show. Themes include a motocross concept, a Pro Football Hall of Fame-dedicated truck and a race car support truck
• Ford F-Series trucks have been a popular mainstay at SEMA, winning three awards in the past five years, including the Accessory-Friendly Truck design award twice
•  Ford F-Series is the best-selling line of trucks in the marketplace for 33 years running and the most customized trucks in the $31.85 billion aftermarket industry

Dearborn, Mich., Oct. 22, 2010 – Ford F-Series trucks have long been known for their definitive power and capability, but they’re also admired for the versatility of the platform, which can be adapted to everything from off-roading to low-riding. At the SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) show in Las Vegas Nov. 2-5, the versatility of F-Series will again shine in the industry spotlight.

“These trucks sell imagery across the board,” said Melvin Betancourt, Ford specialty design manager. “Customers in the truck world want to go off-roading, or at least have the image that they can, or have a truck they can cruise in. We have trucks that fit everything in those categories.”

F-Series trucks have not only been a major presence at SEMA, but they have also garnered three awards in the past five years, including the Accessory-Friendly Truck design award. They have also been awarded Motor Trend’s Truck Trend Top 5 Trucks from SEMA for the 2009 Ford F-150 Heavy Duty DeWalt Contractor Concept. Additionally, Ford F-Series is the best-selling line of trucks in the marketplace for 33 years running and the most customized trucks in the $31.85 billion aftermarket industry.

The 2011 Ford F-150 offers an all-new powertrain lineup, including a new 3.7-liter V6 engine that is projected to deliver best-in-class 23 mpg highway, pending final EPA certification. A new twin-turbo 3.5-liter EcoBoost™ engine with Ti-VCT also will be available, and has been torture-tested for tough truck use in the lab and on the road. The new 5.0-liter V8 engine is projected to deliver best-in-class 21 mpg highway pending EPA certification.

The F-Series dynamic duo is rounded out with an all-new 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty, with the first Ford-designed, Ford-engineered and Ford-manufactured heavy-duty diesel 6.7-liter Power Stroke® V8 turbocharged engine. This versatile Ford diesel is a key reason why the 2011 F-Series Super Duty has best-in-class payload of 7,070 pounds and best-in-class towing capability of 24,400 pounds.

F-Series project trucks showcased at this year’s SEMA show include:

2011 Ford F-150 by Godfather Customs  

Godfather Customs is demonstrating that going green can still mean style with its Ford F-150 with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine. Modifications include a 2.5-inch cowl induction hood, bumper cover and roll pan and handle relocator. A tonneau bed cover and liner and halo taillamps round out the customizations.

2011 Ford F-150 by A.R.E. Accessories

This Ford F-150 by A.R.E. Accessories promotes the mission of the Pro Football Hall of Fame to educate, honor and preserve the history of professional football. Featuring hall of fame styling, the truck is painted with a stadium silhouette and features pigskin leather and materials reminiscent of the gold hall of fame jackets inside. The bed will display notable hall of fame memorabilia, while a wrap on the interior of the bed will simulate the hall of fame enshrinement gallery.

2011 Ford F-150 by Mickey Thompson

The Mickey Thompson Project TTC F-150 is the perfect off-road vehicle, with the new 35-inch Mickey Thompson Baja Claw TTC Radical tires, Fabtech 6-inch suspension, PIAA auxiliary lighting and Warn Industries winch recovery gear. The interior comes with Katzkin leather and aftermarket audio, video and navigation enhancements. For additional utility, the truck features a BedSlide cargo management system and AMP Research power steps.





2011 Ford F-150 by The Custom Shop

On this Ford F-150 with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine by The Custom Shop, shaved handles, lightweight tonneau cover, lightweight rims and low-rolling-resistance tires help enhance looks and mileage. The green theme carries into the styling, with a custom show paint job with a detailed pinstripe border using a low-VOC-emissions DuPont paint. The interior matches the exterior styling with custom Katzkin tan and black leather.

2011 Ford F-350 Super Duty by Rize Industries

This Ford F-350 is a motocross concept that uses top-quality products with the highest standards in craftsmanship. The truck features a Rize Industries 8-inch quad-link suspension that offers additional ground clearance. The bed comes complete with a built-in loading ramp, power washer, air compressor, built-in motorcycle stand and storage space for riding gear.

2011 Ford F-350 Super Duty by Cars by Kris and Airhead Kustoms

Cars by Kris and Airhead Kustoms delivers the Pit Boss, the ultimate tow and support vehicle built off a Ford F-350 Super Duty platform. Built to haul a race car to the track and serve as a mobile pit, the truck offers a bed-mounted tire cage and custom swing-case toolboxes. The interior features custom headliner and leather upholstery, along with sound-deadening material and an in-dash computer system.

2011 Ford F-350 Super Duty by Skyjacker Suspensions

Skyjacker Suspensions’ Ford F-350 Super Duty is made to appeal to the active lifestyle of the Super Duty owner. A Skyjacker-developed 8.5-inch suspension offers a bold lift for work and play, and will let the owner go deeper into the field. Heavy-duty front and rear Fab Fours bumpers are added along with a Warn Industries winch and lights to round out the tough look.

If you have never been to a SEMA show, you're missing a real treat. This year, as usual, the show is in Las Vegas and it is November 2nd, 3rd and 4th. It is so huge, you will want to take it in during all three days!

2011 Ford F150 EcoBoost At Milan Dragway With Pickuptrucks.com

Pickuptrucks.com checks out the 2011 Ford F150 EcoBoost at Milan Dragway