Ford Shelby GT500 Details Direct from the Chief Engineer

Jamal Hameedi, SVT Chief Engineer, provides more information about the 650-horsepower 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 shown at the LA Auto Show

2013 Ford Escape

From the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show, Cars.com's Joe Wiesenfelder takes a look at the 2013 Ford Escape

Seat Fabric in All-New Ford Focus Electric Uses Waste To Create a Better World

• Ford is the first automaker to use REPREVE^® branded fiber inthe seat fabric for the all-new Focus Electric
• REPREVE is a polyester fiber made from a hybrid blend of recycled materials including used plastic water bottles and post-industrial waste
• Through the use of REPREVE, each all-new Ford Focus Electric keeps 22 plastic bottles out of landfills

NEW YORK, Nov. 17, 2011 – Sitting on empty plastic bottles while driving or riding in a car would be less than ideal. That’s not the case when it comes to the all-new Ford Focus Electric, as it features seat fabric made of recycled material that includes the equivalent of more than 20 plastic bottles per car.

 

The fiber – called REPREVE^® – is made from a hybrid blend of recycled materials and manufactured by Unifi, Inc. (NYSE: UFI), a global leader in sustainable textile solutions.

 

Unifi officials say 22 plastic, 16-ounce water bottles are used in the seat fabric of a single Focus Electric. The figure is based on the amount of REPREVE branded fiber used in the production of fabric in each vehicle.

 

Ford is the first automaker to use REPREVE branded fiber in its seat fabric.

 

“What better vehicle than the Focus Electric to put seat fabric made of recycled materials?” said Carol Kordich, lead designer of Sustainable Materials for Ford. “Not only does the use of this fabric in Focus Electric help reduce waste, it also helps to offset the need to produce new raw material from crude oil – a process that consumes precious energy and natural resources.”

 

The 2012 Ford Focus Electric is green in other ways, too. Focus Electric runs on battery power alone, requiring no gasoline and producing zero carbon dioxide emissions.

 

“We are excited to work with Ford for the introduction of REPREVE into the automotive industry,” said Roger Berrier, president and COO of the Greensboro, N.C.-based Unifi. “As REPREVE continues to expand into new applications and markets, consumers are becoming more aware of companies like Ford and Unifi working together to make a positive impact on the environment.”

 

In 2009 Ford mandated that fabric suppliers use a minimum of 25 percent recycled content for all 2009 and beyond model year vehicles. Since then, 37 different fabrics meeting the requirements have been developed and incorporated into Ford vehicles.

 

Kordich said Ford is taking it a step further by mandating that fabric be 100 percent sustainable in vehicles with eco-conscious powertrains like Focus Electric.

 

REPREVE fits the bill, she said, because it is a combination of post-industrial fiber waste and post-consumer waste, like the plastic water bottles made of polyethylene terephthalate plastic. Using REPREVE also reduces energy consumption by offsetting the need to use newly refined crude oil for production.

 

“It made sense when we were designing the Focus Electric to keep pushing for even more innovative ways to offer our customers the best, most environmentally sound products without sacrificing quality,” said Kordich.

 

REPREVE meets all Ford performance requirements, said Kordich, and Ford already is considering other uses across its entire car and truck lineup.

 

Eco-conscious solutions
Ford’s “Reduce, reuse and recycle” commitment is part of the company’s broader global sustainability strategy to reduce its environmental footprint while at the same time accelerating the development of advanced, fuel-efficient vehicle technologies around the world.

 

Last month, Ford announced it is using 25 20-ounce plastic bottles to make the carpeting in every all-new Ford Escape utility vehicle it builds. It’s the first time Ford has used this type of carpeting in an SUV.

 

Over the past several years Ford has concentrated on increasing the use of nonmetal recycled and bio-based materials whenever possible, provided these materials are environmentally favorable in the specific application. Examples include soy foam seat cushions and head restraints, wheat straw-filled plastic, castor oil foam in instrument panels, recycled resins for underbody systems, recycled yarns on seat covers and natural-fiber plastic for interior components.

Ford to Commercialize New Method of Attaching Windshields Through Cleaner Technology

• Ford has invented a new method of preparing vehicle windshields for attachment to cars and trucks that is simpler, more cost-efficient and eco-friendly
• Ford is working with companies like Elgin, Ill.-based Plasmatreat U.S. L.P. to bring new technology to market

DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 17, 2011 – Ford wants to innovate the way vehicle windshields are installed through a new patented process that makes the attachment less costly, simpler and more eco-conscious than current practices.

 

One patent covers cleaning and activating the edge of the windshield glass in less than 10 seconds. A second Ford patent covers the application of a plasma-reacted nano-coating that modifies the surface for bonding of the adhesive that holds the windshield in place. The entire patented process takes less than one minute.

 

Larry Haack, technical expert, Ford Research & Innovation, said there are several benefits of the new patented technology including elimination of the primers that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

 

“The new patented process has the potential to reduce costs because it requires far less material to create the ultra-thin bond coating, and the fully automated process is much less labor-intensive,” said Haack. “This new process also lessens the use of chemicals including VOCs, which is good for the environment.”

 

Ford’s corporate sustainability efforts call for reduction of VOC emissions in its facilities while still meeting Federal safety requirements.

 

The typical method to attach a windshield – used currently at Ford and throughout the industry – is to first wipe the glass with a solvent cleaner, then apply a primer and adhesive to secure the windshield to the vehicle. Part of the problem, said Haack, is that this method releases a small amount of highly undesirable solvent emissions.

 

The Ford patented technology eliminates the use of the solvents that contain VOCs and simplifies the manufacturing process by reducing steps, such as wiping the glass clean.

 

Ford recently signed a nonexclusive, worldwide license agreement with Elgin, Ill.-based Plasmatreat U.S. L.P. that grants the right to use Ford’s new process patents and incorporate the Ford technology into Plasmatreat’s own equipment and patented processes. Also, Ford will provide technical assistance to Plasmatreat and its customers to implement technology using Ford’s experience and know-how.  

 

Chris Danowski, technology commercialization director, Ford Global Technologies L.L.C., said the new technology will be offered worldwide first in equipment that Plasmatreat plans to sell or lease to Ford, other automotive OEMs, the heavy truck market, motor home and bus industries and other customers who want to use it.

 

“Ford is excited about working with companies like Plasmatreat to commercialize new technologies and make them available to the market faster,” said Danowski. “Such relationships are very beneficial as we are simplifying the manufacturing process and making it more environmentally friendly, too.”

 

Ford Global Technologies manages intellectual property for Ford and commercializes technologies for use inside and outside the automotive industry.

All-New Ford Escape: Smarter Utility Vehicle Saves Customers Fuel, Money; New Technologies to Make Owners’ Lives Easier

The All-New Ford Escape

• Ford’s newest sport utility vehicle (SUV) arrives next year, bringing clever technologies and features designed to make life easier, and fuel economy projected to top any vehicle of its kind on the market
• Versatile vehicle features new hands-free technology – including liftgate with motion-sensing technology similar to video games’ and upgraded MyFord Touch® system that makes connecting with digital devices on the go even easier
• New Escape’s projected fuel economy is up to 5 mpg better than outgoing Escape; 1.6- and 2.0-liter EcoBoost® engines save customers fuel and money
• Customers globally will start seeing this sleek small SUV next year, too. Named the Ford Kuga in Europe and China, this vehicle makes its international debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March and will offer unique powertrains and features for customers in those markets

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 16, 2011 – The Ford Escape, America’s best-selling SUV, will raise the bar even higher with the debut of an all-new model that features 11 new exclusive features and fuel economy projected to top any vehicle of its kind on the market today.

“We call our all-new Ford Escape the ‘Smarter Utility Vehicle’ because it offers the strengths that customers today really value – fuel economy, versatility and new technology that makes driving and living with the vehicle easier and more fun – all wrapped in a sleek, more modern design,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. “Ford understands that more people every year are looking at vehicles like Escape, and we want to give them even more reasons to buy.”

Sixty percent of Americans shopping for a vehicle next year will look at either a midsize car or small SUV, making Escape part of one of the most cross-shopped and fastest-growing segments in the auto industry.

“Escape is America’s best-selling utility vehicle, and the Ford team has worked hard to make sure we deliver even more of what small SUV owners really want,” Kuzak said.

In addition to more cargo volume behind the first and second rows than today’s vehicle, the new Escape delivers:

• Eleven features no other small SUV offers
• Clever technologies that make Escape even more versatile, including an available hands-free power liftgate that allows quick and easy access to cargo with the kick of a foot
• Projected best fuel economy of any compact SUV, up to 5 mpg better than previous Escape
• Driving dynamics that make the drive experience more engaging on-road and a new Ford Intelligent 4WD System that provides even better traction off-road
• Sleek new design, with better interior materials and more finishing touches

Escape technology makes life better
An array of clever technologies adds to the new Escape’s versatility, helping make life easier for its owners. Key features include:

• An available hands-free power liftgate brings new technology to the SUV market and is enabled by motion technology used in today’s video game systems. A gentle kicking motion under the center of the rear bumper activates, unlocks and raises the liftgate when the driver has the Escape key fob. This allows quick and easy access to the cargo area without needing to set down packages or dig out keys. The same process closes the hatch

• SYNC® with MyFord Touch®, offers multiple ways for customers to manage and control information through voice commands, menus accessed through controls on the steering wheel, touch screens, buttons or knobs. Upgraded system includes new look, making phone, navigation, entertainment and climate controls even easier to use

• Parallel parking the Escape is virtually stress-free with active park assist. With the press of a button, the system detects an available parallel parking space and automatically steers the vehicle into the space. Drivers control only the gas and brake pedals

• Maneuvering parking lots and traveling open roadways becomes even safer and less stressful with Escape’s sensor-based BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with cross-traffic alert. BLIS displays an alert in the side mirror when a vehicle is detected entering a blind spot. Cross-traffic alert warns if traffic is detected approaching from the sides, such as when Escape is leaving a parking space in reverse

• The all-new Ford Escape is the first Ford SUV to combine class-exclusive technology to  automatically slow the vehicle when it’s cornering too fast (Curve Control) or help accelerate through a turn (Torque Vectoring Control); a new Intelligent 4WD System helps deliver outstanding handling on pristine pavement and in adverse conditions as well, along with  excellent traction off-road

Spirited performance with outstanding fuel economy
Escape offers Ford’s broadest nameplate range of EcoBoost® engine choices yet. Strong fuel economy comes from either the available 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine or 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine, which makes its American debut in the new Escape.

Both new engines combine EcoBoost’s core technologies of direct fuel injection and turbocharging and add twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) to deliver even better miles per gallon and save customers money on fuel.

In Escape, EcoBoost engines are mated to specially calibrated, six-speed SelectShift Automatic™ transmissions, which are standard and allow drivers who want more hands-on experiences to manually control gear selection from a switch on the left-hand side of the shifter.

The gearbox features a new torque converter for improved driving feel, silky smooth shifts and even better fuel economy. Engineers also installed revised gear ratios for a balanced driving feel in all situations.

The standard engine in North America is an updated 2.5-liter, giving the new Escape a comprehensive lineup of four-cylinder offerings. It also is matched to a SelectShift Automatic six-speed.

Also aiding fuel economy is Escape’s sleeker design. The new model is nearly 10 percent more aerodynamic than the outgoing model.

Plus, the new Escape’s active grille shutter system, which is on all models with the 1.6-liter EcoBoost and 2.5-liter four-cylinder engines, reduces wind resistance. Grille slats stay open when extra engine cooling air is required, such as low-speed stop-and-go driving. When cruising on the highway at steady speeds, the grille slats automatically close to improve aerodynamics and fuel efficiency.

Versatility and capability come standard 
Stowing and towing are even easier in the new five-passenger Escape, thanks to a low liftover height of 27 inches, more innovations and cargo volume that surpasses the outgoing Escape – with 68.1 cubic feet of space behind the first row and 34.3 cubic feet behind the second row.

The new Escape’s rear seats have been designed to fold flat easily. With the touch of a button, the head restraint folds down and with the lift of a handle on the seat, the seatback folds and dives as the seat folds flat and clicks into position.

Escape also features an available two-position load floor, which can be configured to allow the customer to choose among maximum luggage volume or flat load floor.

When properly equipped, the all-new Escape maintains a trailer tow rating of 3,500 pounds.

Engaging driving performance through seamless system
Using new advanced software and sensors, the new Intelligent 4WD System analyzes data from 25 external signals, including wheel speed, accelerator pedal position and steering wheel angle, assessing road conditions and driver input 20 times faster than the blink of an eye.

The system uses all the sensor inputs to turn the vehicle in the direction the driver wants it to go. Intelligent 4WD builds on the pre-emptive actions by adding and subtracting torque as needed through an electromagnetic clutch.

New SUV goes global
Following its world debut in Los Angeles, this new vehicle will head to Europe, where sales of compact sport utilities have grown 200 percent since 2000. It will be revealed at the Geneva Motor Show in March for European customers as the all-new version of the Ford Kuga and will have unique powertrains and features. Chinese customers also will see the all-new Kuga next spring.

“This all-new Ford model opens a new chapter in the world of SUVs,” Kuzak said. “By being smarter, this utility vehicle will help customers around the globe find better, easier ways to connect with technology, maximize fuel efficiency and find the versatility and capability they need and want.”

Ford Charges up for 2012 Announcing Exclusive Collaboration with SHFT.com

Ford Motor Company announces collaboration
with SHFT.com. Co-founders of SHFT, 
Adrian Grenier (left) and Peter Glazter (right), 
with the new Ford Focus Electric. 
Photo credit: Ford Motor Company/TiffanyRosePhotography.com

DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 14, 2011 – Ford Motor Company today announces an exclusive collaboration with SHFT.com, the award-winning multimedia platform founded by actor and filmmaker Adrian Grenier and film producer Peter Glatzer. The automotive leader and green lifestyle website are joining forces to inspire people to make smarter environmental decisions through film, design, art, transportation and culture. 

As part of Ford’s mission to accelerate the development of more fuel-efficient and alternative-fuel vehicles, the company is teaming up with SHFT.com to put the power in the hands of millions of Americans who are interested in being more eco-conscious and saving money. 

“Our goal is to provide the vehicles and resources to help people live more sustainable lives,” said John Viera, director of Sustainability, Ford Motor Company. “We are working with organizations such as SHFT because they share a similar philosophy – looking at the small and large actions that can make a real difference in a creative and authentic way, which is part of Ford’s commitment to allow people to choose which fuel-efficient and green solution works best for them.” 

Selecting the right vehicle is a significant decision for individuals seeking greener lifestyles or just looking to save money when driving. In a recent national survey, Ford found nearly half of Americans are confused when it comes to green vehicle options, with 46 percent not knowing the difference between a hybrid, plug-in hybrid or electric vehicle. Ford aims to help address this confusion in the marketplace through its collaboration with SHFT.com and its power of choice philosophy.

“SHFT.com celebrates businesses where great design, sustainability and innovation meet, which is why we are so excited to be forging this relationship with Ford,” said Grenier.

“Shared core values are at the heart of our collaboration,” adds Glatzer. “Our common goal is to present the best sustainable options to the conscious consumer in an inspiring and entertaining way and to embrace the individualistic choices people need to make.”

Together, Ford and SHFT are collaborating on a variety of programs to inspire and invite consumers to take a more sustainable approach in life. This includes developing the creation of a short documentary series profiling leaders in innovation who are shaping new sustainable businesses that are influencing positive change around the world. Ford and SHFT also are looking at live-event programs and film festivals to further spread their shared mission.

Ford’s power of choice
Ford believes in the power of choice – offering customers a range of fuel-efficient vehicles is the best way to reduce CO2 emissions, while still meeting the various needs of individuals. In line with this philosophy, Ford is delivering a range of eco-friendly driving options, spanning both traditional gas-powered vehicles and electrified vehicles.

Thanks to Ford technologies such as EcoBoost®, flex-fuel powertrains and hybrid batteries, consumers have access to a variety of vehicles that promise function and style while making driving a greener and more affordable experience.

Green driving leadership
Electrification also is an important piece of Ford’s overall product sustainability strategy, which includes five Ford electrified vehicles for the market, the Focus Electric, Fusion Hybrid, C-MAX Hybrid, C-MAX Energi plug-in Hybrid and Transit Connect Electric. Additionally, Ford Motor Company has four cars that achieve an EPA-rated 40 mpg or higher, including Fiesta, Focus, Fusion Hybrid and Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. 

“Ford is excited to be collaborating with innovators at SHFT to develop real solutions to help consumers live a more sustainable lifestyle,” said Viera.