You Test It: Ford Offers Opportunity to Be Among First People Behind the Wheel of All-New F-150

• Truck customers and fans could win the opportunity to put the all-new Ford F-150 through its toughest challenge yet

• Consumers can enter at BuiltToughTest.com by describing how they would test the toughness of the all-new F-150

• Winners will be filmed putting a new F-150 through their own personal toughness test; videos will be posted to YouTube.com/FordTrucks

Ford, America’s truck leader, is looking for truck buyers to take an all-new F-150 through some of the toughest testing it might ever encounter – their own.

Ford is launching the “You Test” campaign, in which actual Ford F-150 drivers and fans could win the opportunity to sit behind the wheel of the all-new 2015 F-150 before nearly anyone else in the world. By visiting BuiltToughTest.com, customers can tell Ford how they would test the toughness of the new F-150 pickup – maybe through a grueling off-road challenge, or even through the daily routine of a demanding job site.

“We prove every day our trucks are Built Ford Tough – now we’re asking truck customers to help us prove it too,” said Eric Peterson, Ford F-150 marketing manager. “We’re looking for people who know how to punish a truck. Built Ford Tough isn’t just a tagline; it’s the philosophy that drives us every day to make the best trucks out there, and it’s what has made F-Series the No. 1 truck for nearly 40 years.”

Up to five winners will be selected to spend up to a week behind the wheel of a new F-150 while video crews document the truck undergoing the real-world testing. The videos will be posted to YouTube.com/FordTrucks.

Entries must be received by May 31, 2014. Winners will be announced before Sept. 1, 2014. No purchase necessary. Complete terms and conditions are available at BuiltToughTest.com.

The all-new F-150 is the toughest F-150 ever, with a high-strength steel frame and a high-strength, military-grade, aluminum-alloy body. The new F-150 will undergo more than 10 million miles of toughness and durability testing before it reaches showrooms later this year.

F-150 is also the preferred light-duty pickup among workers in some of the toughest vocations. According to Polk registration data of light-duty pickups, 53 percent of these truck drivers in the heavy construction industry, 56 percent in the heavy hauling industry and 60 percent in the energy/utility industry drive F-150 pickups.

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Double-Digit Growth Strengthens Ford Focus’ Lead as Best-Selling Vehicle Nameplate in the World

• Ford Focus global registrations grew more than 16 percent year-over-year, widening its lead over its next competitor by more than 75,000, based on Ford’s analysis of the just-released and latest Polk global vehicle data for January to September 2013
  

• Propelled by Ford’s growth in China, Focus registrations surpassed 303,000 units there to also make it the best-selling passenger car nameplate in China
  

• Focus is driving Ford’s global growth and is joined by Fiesta to give Ford two of the top five best-selling nameplates in the world
  

The Ford Focus continues to be the best-selling vehicle nameplate in the world, based on Ford’s analysis of the just-released and latest Polk global vehicle registration data through the third quarter of 2013.

Led by strong growth in China, Focus global registrations from January through September 2013 grew to 856,587, a 16.1 percent year-over-year increase. China was the biggest contributor to the success with 303,481 registrations, representing an 85 percent year-over-year increase, according to Polk, which recently was acquired by IHS.

Focus buyers cite the vehicle’s exterior styling and generous level of equipment as key reasons for their purchase. In China, the top differentiators among car intenders include the vehicle’s design, excellent safety and high quality. Each of these attributes scored 15 percent to 40 percent higher among consumers than the closest competitor.

“Our success with Focus serving more and more customers around the world underscores the strength of our One Ford plan,” said Jim Farley, Ford executive vice president of global marketing, sales and service and Lincoln. “We remain absolutely committed to developing a full family of vehicles that, like Focus, offer outstanding quality, fuel efficiency, safety, smart design and value.”

Thanks to Ford’s One Ford plan and global product vision, the company now has two of the top five best-selling nameplates in the world – the Focus and Fiesta – with a combined 1,402,555 vehicle registrations during the January through September 2013 period, based on Polk data.
 
In addition to Focus being the best-selling passenger car nameplate title in China, Fiesta continues as the top-selling small car in Europe.

All-new Ford Transit Connect Endorsed by Tall Clubs International, Best Vehicle for the Vertically Gifted

• The functional and fun Ford Transit Connect Wagon is being endorsed by Tall Clubs International as the perfect vehicle for the “vertically gifted”

• The all-new Transit Connect Wagon offers headroom to spare along with fuel efficiency and class-leading configuration options

• Tall Clubs International, a social and professional organization for the “vertically gifted,” has endorsed such products as the California King bed and clothing designers who create stylish fashions for tall people

The all-new Ford Transit Connect is standing a little taller after being endorsed by Tall Clubs International as a vehicle that brings fit and comfort to the “vertically gifted.”

The Transit Connect was recognized today as part of Paramount Tall Club’s annual Chicago weekend. Paramount Tall Club is a Chicago-based member of Tall Clubs International.

“People of a certain stature have to make special considerations for head and leg room when out buying a new car,” said Brian Comeno, president of Tall Clubs International. “Car shopping is very tough, and if you are concerned about fuel efficiency, smaller is sometimes the way to go.

“The Transit Connect provides both comfort and fuel efficiency, giving people who are vertically gifted important factors that go into purchasing a new vehicle.”

The Transit Connect, which hit dealer showrooms this month in the United States, comes in two all-new models – a panel-side cargo van; and a wagon, a stylish, spacious and fuel-efficient people mover. When equipped with the 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine the Transit Connect Wagon is rated at 29 mpg highway.

The Transit Connect Wagon offers ample headroom and a spacious interior for a vehicle that is about 16 inches longer and wider than the Ford Fiesta sedan, making it a smart buy in a world that often leaves the “vertically gifted” challenged when car shopping. The wagon and cargo van have 46.8 inches of headroom in the first row and 45.1 inches in the second row. The long wheelbase wagon has 41.3 inches in the third row.

For leg room, the Transit Connect has 41.5 inches in the first row and 37.6 inches in the second row.
Aside from space, the Transit Connect Wagon takes adaptability to a new level with fold-flat second- and third-row seating, a 1,200-pound-plus payload and a rear liftgate.

The wagon also comes with the choice between two fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines - a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an optional 1.6-liter EcoBoost ^®. For more information about Ford Transit Connect Wagon, or the cargo van, including pricing, visit www.ford.com/2014tcbuild&price.

About Tall Clubs International

Tall Clubs International was established in 1938 and has since grown to include more than 100 chapters worldwide.

To be a member, men must be at least 6-foot-2 and women must be 5-foot-10 or taller.

Tall Clubs International has previously endorsed California King sized beds for providing adequate comfort to the vertically gifted, and its European branches have been active with clothing designers and retailers who make and sell garments that fit the “vertically gifted.”

“People who are vertically gifted can’t just go out and buy any vehicle they want,” said Comeno, who added he is one of the shorter members of the club, standing at 6-foot-2. “The Transit Connect is much more in tune with providing comfort, as well as fuel efficiency and of course, fun.”

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Designing the 2015 F-150

Designing the 2015 F-150

First Retail Unit 2015 Ford Mustang GT Fastback Sells for $300,000 at Barrett-Jackson Auction in Scottsdale

• The first retail unit 2015 Ford Mustang GT Fastback sold for $300,000 with proceeds benefiting JDRF, the leading diabetes research organization

• With this sale, Ford has increased its JDRF charity car vehicle sales to more than $3.5 million

• The winning bidder will personalize their new car with available 2015 Mustang GT options

• Shelby GT500-inspired, 1956 Ford F-100 pulled in $450,000 for the Children’s Hospital of Saskatchewan in Canada. KISS bassist and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Gene Simmons, his wife and Canadian-born actress, Shannon Tweed-Simmons, attended spurring on the auction crowd

At Barrett-Jackson Auction Company’s sale in Scottsdale, Ariz., a car collector and North Texas Ford dealer, Sam Pack, paid $300,000 to have the first retail production unit of the all-new 2015 Mustang GT when it goes on sale this fall. This purchase helped Ford Motor Company increase its charity vehicle sales to more than $3.5 million for JDRF, the leading diabetes research organization and a Ford partner since 1983.

Also at the auction, a Shelby GT500-inspired 1956 Ford F-100 sold for an impressive $450,000, bought by Gordie Broda of Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, Canada. The Wheels of Dreams Project was created to raise funding for the new Children’s Hospital of Saskatchewan in Canada.

Since it debuted in April 1964, Mustang has always been “the car designed to be designed by you,” and the winning bidder, has that same opportunity for his new car. Pack will choose either a manual or automatic transmission as well as any interior and exterior color combination offered on the 2015 Ford Mustang GT. Furthermore, the team involved in Mustang design and development will sign the car in appreciation of the donation to JDRF.

“The response to the all-new Mustang GT on the auction block was remarkable,” says Raj Nair, group vice president - global product development at Ford Motor Company. “People were drawn to the opportunity to own this historic car, while also knowing the funds would benefit JDRF. We’re pleased to continue this collaboration in the fight to cure type 1 diabetes.”

Powered by the throaty V8, the Mustang GT features upgrades that yield more than 420 horsepower and 390 lb.-ft. of torque. Under the sleek new skin, Mustang features all-new front and rear independent suspension systems to help transfer power to the pavement with world-class handling, more precise steering control and enhanced ride comfort. Innovative technologies also provide enhanced information, control and connectivity when drivers want it, including launch control that enables smooth and consistent starts when desired.

“We are thrilled with the result of the auction,” says John Brady, incoming JDRF chairman. “The enthusiasm and generosity of Ford Motor Company and Barrett-Jackson Auction Company is appreciated by the JDRF family and all those living with type 1 diabetes. The $300,000 raised tonight will get us closer to a world without type 1 diabetes.”

The future Children’s Hospital of Saskatchewan received a large donation through the sale of the 1956 Ford F-100 or “Snakebit,” as the truck is known. It is a blend of street rod styling with influences from the iconic Ford Shelby GT500. It boasts a supercharged 5.4-liter V8 breathing through a high-performance exhaust system. A six-speed manual gearbox feeds the estimated 550 horsepower to the 20-inch rear wheels.

The sale was made possible through the Wheels of Dreams Project, which is a unique collaboration involving KISS bassist and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Gene Simmons, his wife and Saskatoon-born actress, Shannon Tweed-Simmons, along with area businesses including the local Saskatchewan Ford dealer association. Though the fundraising campaign to build the hospital started several years ago, the group collectively wanted to do their part to achieve the 2016 construction completion goal. The two celebrities joined the truck on stage for the charity sale.

“We are elated with the response to this one-of-a-kind truck,” says Vaughn Wyant, co-chair of Wheels of Dreams and president and CEO of Vaughn Wyant Automotive Group. “The volunteers involved in this project traveled an amazing road to get here, and it was thrilling to finally reach the moment where Gene and Shannon were spurring on the auction crowd to support the future children’s hospital. What an incredible moment.”

“We continue to be astounded by the ongoing generosity of the Saskatchewan community and those beyond our borders who are making the Children’s Hospital of Saskatchewan a reality,” says Brynn Boback-Lane, president and CEO of the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Saskatchewan. “Special thanks go to Ford Canada, the Ford Dealers Association of Saskatchewan and those at home in Saskatchewan who created and built this truck with the generosity of funding, commitment of time and sharing of their talents ensuring this project is world-class. These are the heroes in helping to build Saskatchewan’s new children's hospital. Our Foundation is grateful for their efforts. We simply could not have done this without them, as this is a true testament to what Saskatchewan people can do when working together.”

Ford Brings 37.5-Ton Piece of Moving Assembly Line to 2014 NAIAS, Celebrates Mustang Heritage with New Exhibit

•   Ford display at North American International Auto Show encompasses more than 66,000 square feet, includes new upper-level gallery; tops previous years’ experiences, offerings
•  Impressive displays include a 37.5-ton piece of the all-new F-150 moving assembly line simulation and a new upper-level exhibit area to celebrate the 50^th anniversary of Mustang
• The Ford stand’s many interactive features include numerous opportunities to experience the Blue Oval’s full family of vehicles and technologies, along with creative ways for showgoers to share their experiences socially

DETROIT, Jan. 17, 2014 – Ford Motor Company’s stand at the 2014 North American International Auto Show includes a 37.5-ton display that simulates a moving assembly line, as well as a chance to see the all-new Mustang next to the original pony car.

Ford is offering its freshest vehicle lineup, latest technologies, newest innovations and the coolest interactive exhibits at this year’s auto show in Detroit. A new upper-level exhibit area will feature the all-new Mustang positioned near the Concept II created by the 1962 Mustang design team.

Using 66,167 square feet of floor space for 82 vehicles and numerous interactive displays, Ford is showcasing its full lineup of dynamic new products. From “50 Years of Mustang” to discovering “The Future of Tough,” courtesy of the all-new F-150, Ford’s display is a feast for the senses. The show is open to the public Jan. 18-26 at Cobo Center in Detroit.

“Consumers will be able to interact with Ford vehicles in new and exciting ways that will capitalize on the strength and quality of our products,” said David Tillapaugh, global auto show operations manager for Ford. “There is no better stage than the auto show for audiences to get a closer look at what makes the Blue Oval Go Further, or to experience why our all-new Ford F-150 is Built Ford Tough.”

The Future of Tough

The all-new Ford F-150, America’s favorite truck, has been redefined as the toughest, smartest, most capable F-150 ever.

For the first time, the public will get to see the origins of the 2015 F-150, with the story of the truck being told through Ford’s standards of durability, capability, efficiency and technology via The Future of Tough, one of the main attractions of the NAIAS stand.

To tell a story this big, a massive display has been erected to simulate the F-150 assembly line, with robotic pieces that dramatize the creation of the vehicle. Four trucks in various stages of build, starting with a steel frame, are showcased. The display, measuring 22 feet in height and 75,000 pounds, moves the trucks from left to right, lowering and raising each vehicle via central elevators to show consumers a different stage of F-150 construction. As each version of the truck is explained, the vehicle is then raised back into the air.

“Each stage of the truck’s construction follows the themes of durability, capability, efficiency and technology,” said Tillapaugh. “F-150 has been reengineered to higher standards, and with more technology than it has ever had before. This display will help consumers understand the levels to which Ford’s engineering team went to bring it to life.”

Celebrating Mustang

The iconic pony car that has inspired so many over five decades is back as Ford shows off the all-new Mustang, opening up a part of its auto show stand to the public for the first time.

The 2015 Mustang – loaded with technologies and world-class levels of performance – takes center stage at the Ford stand this year. A new upper-level exhibit area provides a special celebration for the 50^th anniversary of Mustang. Visitors to this space will be immersed in cultural and historic artifacts, as well as references to Mustang’s impact on fashion, film, food and fun throughout its life.

Young Mustang fans can be among the first in the world to make their own free Auto Show Edition Mustang model from Revell^® – a worldwide leader in the hobby industry. The all-new Mustang model kit will be offered while supplies last, and can be assembled in minutes. It is the first licensed product offering for the all-new Ford Mustang.

Prominently displayed on Ford’s show floor is the history and future of Mustang encapsulated with multiple versions of the pony car, including the original model and Concept II. The display features the all-new Mustang convertible with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost^® engine and a Mustang GT with 5.0-liter V8. Front and center is an all-new Race Red Mustang GT fastback.

A live engagement presentation and immersive film on an LED screen is also part of the Ford NAIAS display. Visitors can take part in the narration and presentation via two cameras, with the footage used to capture highlights of showgoers checking out the Mustang exhibit.

An adjacent ST enthusiast area provides racing simulators for two people to go head-to-head on a road course and compete for winning times they can then share via social networks.

“This is the largest consumer experience Ford has ever had, and it provides the greatest number of opportunities for engaging visitors in Ford’s history at the North American International Auto Show,” said Tillapaugh. “Right at the entrance, visitors will be greeted with the opportunity to take part in the displays and see what makes Ford Go Further.”