9/29/13

Sneak Peek: 2015 Ford Super Duty




The new 2015 Super Duty® is coming, and we’ve got the early scoop on the big changes you’ll see when the truck arrives in dealerships!

Making huge headlines is the Power Stroke® engine: The V-8 turbodiesel receives a turbocharger for improved power and performance, and that extra oomph will be backed by a new fuel pump and injectors, and a new temperature control system is designed to maximize everyday performance.

These engine enhancements pertain to the Power Stroke in every Super Duty model.
Other upgrades include ones made to the F-450: 19.5-inch wheels are now the standard rims, and new color choices are Magnetic, Caribou, and Bronze Fire.

Now, if the King Ranch is your pick of pickups, know that it gains a new exterior look – it can be had in a new Caribou two-tone paint scheme. Inside, things get more Southwestern-looking, featuring a new Mesa Brown leather and Running W brand.

“Through premium materials and thoughtful execution, we strived to make the 2015 Ford Super Duty King Ranch have a look and a feel as authentic as the ranch itself,” said Doug Scott, Ford Truck Group Marketing Manager.

Do you have a Ford Super Duty? Tell us how you use it for work, play and every day!

9/27/13

2015 Ford F-Series Super Duty Features Improved Power Stroke Diesel, Stronger F-450, Revamped King Ranch Edition

 

  • Engineering improvements boost the performance, capability and durability of the Ford-designed and Ford-built 6.7-liter Power Stroke® V8 turbo diesel engine
  • Upgraded 2015 Ford F-450 pickup offers more towing capability than ever
  • 2015 Ford F-Series Super Duty King Ranch restyled, combining authentic Texas heritage with modern luxury
VIDEO: 2015 Ford Super Duty Leaves the Competition Behind
Ford, America’s truck leader, introduces the 2015 F-Series Super Duty lineup today at State Fair of Texas, featuring a second-generation 6.7-liter Power Stroke® V8 turbo diesel engine; increased towing capabilities; and a refreshed, Texas-inspired King Ranch model.

“Truck leadership means never resting, and the Super Duty team has been tireless in finding ways to improve the industry’s most popular heavy-duty pickups,” said Joe Hinrichs, executive vice president and president of The Americas, Ford Motor Company. “Super Duty diesel customers will benefit from improved performance and features backed by outstanding Built Ford Tough durability.”
Since the 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel debuted in 2011, Ford engineers have listened to customers and continued to examine each component of the engine to develop improved performance.

Ford is the only heavy-duty pickup truck manufacturer that designs and builds its own diesel engine and transmission combination, ensuring the powertrain will work seamlessly with all chassis components and vehicle calibrations – from concept to execution. This approach also enables Ford engineers to optimize the vehicle’s performance across the entire lineup.

A key Ford innovation on the original 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel was its so-called reverse-flow layout. The advanced design places the exhaust inside the engine’s V-shape while the air intake is positioned on the outside of the V. This segment-exclusive design naturally improves a variety of attributes:
  • Shorter airflow from the exhaust system to the turbocharger sitting between the engine’s cylinder banks improves turbo responsiveness – key to providing torque quickly to truck customers when they need it most
  • Positioning the turbo inside the engine’s valley helps isolate the engine’s hottest temperatures, improving performance and efficiency, while also reducing noise, vibration and harshness
Ford engineers built upon the many benefits of this design as they upgraded the Power Stroke. One improvement is a larger GT37 turbocharger that replaces the previous GT32 model, enabling more airflow to the engine to produce more power beyond today’s 400 horsepower and 800 lb.-ft. of torque.

Key components of the new GT37 turbocharger
The GT37 features a single, larger 88-millimeter compressor wheel that replaces the GT32’s dual-sided compressor design. The compressor forces air into the engine’s cylinders to improve performance – especially at high altitude where the air is thinner than at sea level. The turbine size is increased to 72.5 millimeters from 64 millimeters, so exhaust gases have a larger surface area to spin the turbo, providing extra power. The wastegate and the wastegate controls are eliminated, because the turbo operates at lower peak pressures than the GT32.


“The original designers of the current Power Stroke V8 diesel forecasted needs for higher output. This facilitated the larger turbocharger, increasing airflow and creating more power,” said David Ives, Power Stroke technical specialist. “We’ve dramatically improved performance while reducing overall engine complexity by focusing on the turbo system.”

A further benefit of the larger turbo is improved engine exhaust braking, manually controlled by a push-button switch on the dashboard. Extra braking power helps reduce wear and tear on wheel brakes and requires less manual brake application from the driver, especially on downhill grades.

Fuel system improvements
Turbo changes drove improvements to the fuel delivery system, specifically a new high-pressure fuel pump and fuel injectors. The pump’s cam stroke is increased to deliver more fuel when desired for increased power. All-new injector tips better atomize the fuel, resulting in improved combustion that enables lower noise, vibration and harshness. Other benefits include cleaner emissions and a reduction in the buildup of fuel deposits on the valves over time.

In addition, a new exhaust temperature sensor enables more accurate fuel control, which improves both durability and driveability – especially when towing – and helps the customer drive the Power Stroke diesel to its maximum capability.

Even though the fuel system delivers extra fuel as needed to provide more power, other efficiency improvements ensure 2015 Ford F-Series Super Duty pickup customers see similar performance to today’s best-in-class fuel economy.

Further enhancements to Ford Power Stroke diesel include:
  • Ford-designed and -engineered 6R140 TorqShift® six-speed transmission uses a new torque converter to manage increased horsepower and torque
  • New polymer coating on main bearings for improved wear-and-tear durability and lower friction
  • Improved crankshaft fillet design – the transition point between the crankshaft’s journals – to increase crankshaft power carrying capability
  • Increased crankshaft damper weight to reduce rotating forces on the crankshaft when the engine is performing at peak power levels
  • New five-layer head gasket to handle wider range of engine firing pressures resulting from more powerful engine performance
  • Added material to the engine’s cylinder heads, exhaust manifold and valvetrain to handle increased power levels
  • Redesigned turbo oil and cooling lines to improve sealing
  • Piston assembly upgrades to increase load-bearing capability
  • New four-layer exhaust manifold gasket for improved durability


2015 Ford F-450 upgrades
The 2015 Ford F-450 tops the F-Series Super Duty pickup truck lineup with maximum towing and hauling capability. Changes for 2015 include a strengthened frame, suspension, new commercial-grade 19.5-inch wheels and tires, and core work components shared with F-Series Super Duty chassis cab models.

Just as the next-generation Power Stroke engine reflects changes that improve power while maintaining durability, the Super Duty engineering team took specific actions to bolster key F-450 components to improve towing capability, including:
  • Upgraded rear driveline U-joints
  • Upgraded suspension components, including new rear leaf springs, front and rear stabilizer bars and shocks
  • Increased fifth-wheel and gooseneck trailer capacity
  • Stronger steering gears and steering linkages
  • Larger brakes shared with Super Duty chassis cab models, including wheel brakes, parking brake and new antilock brake calibration
  • F-450-specific Power Stroke diesel engine calibration

King Ranch expresses authentic, rugged luxury
The reinvigorated update to the 2015 Ford F-Series Super Duty King Ranch edition is inspired by the place where American ranching was born.

“King Ranch is an American original with a proud heritage of hard work that defines the American ranching lifestyle,” said Doug Scott, Ford Truck group marketing manager. “The 2015 Ford Super Duty King Ranch seamlessly combines elements of Texas-inspired luxury and Ford capability.”
As part of the Ford Truck commitment to continuous improvement, the F-Series design team traveled to King Ranch, founded in 1853, for fresh perspective and inspiration from the 825,000-acre working ranch, which is bigger than the state of Rhode Island.

“What really stood out is how prominent the ‘Running W’ is, and how it defines and unifies the ranch,” said Barb Whalen, Ford color and material design manager. “Similarly, we wanted that brand to define the new Super Duty King Ranch.”

On the new Super Duty King Ranch, the Running W – the brand used on cattle raised at the ranch – provides a focal point for the interior. It is cut out and stitched to make the seat backs and center console appear to have been branded.

A lighter, richer shade of Mesa leather trims the seats, center console lid, armrests and steering wheel.
Exterior updates include the new, darker Caribou paint for the wheel lip moldings, bumpers and lower body. The bed rail caps, bumper caps and running boards are executed in black. The Running W brings focus to the wheel caps as well.

“Through premium materials and thoughtful execution, we strived to make the 2015 Ford Super Duty King Ranch have a look and a feel as authentic as the ranch itself,” said Scott.



About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 177,000 employees and 65 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products worldwide, please visit corporate.ford.com.

9/23/13

Next-Generation Ford Transit Connect Taxi: Taxi of the Future with Increased Space, Performance and CNG/LPG Capability

  • Ford introduces all-new 2014 Transit Connect Taxi, prioritizing passenger and cargo space, livery-duty durability and low operating costs
  • New 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine expected to have best-in-class highway fuel economy, and available prep package allowing conversion to efficient, clean-burning compressed natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas
  • Redesign lowers vehicle floor for improved access to the cabin; vehicle can be modified to be wheelchair-accessible through Ford’s Qualified Vehicle Modifier program
Ford, America’s commercial truck and van leader, introduces the all-new 2014 Transit Connect Taxi, providing best-in-class performance, low operating costs, and improved comfort and flexibility for the North American taxi market.

The redesigned Ford Transit Connect Taxi was unveiled today at the 2013 International Association of Transportation Regulators Conference in St. Louis. It has been engineered to Ford’s light-truck commercial durability standards.

“We’re leveraging our longtime leadership and expertise in the North American taxi market to ensure Transit Connect Taxi exceeds the expectations of taxi operators and their passengers,” said Tim Stoehr, commercial truck marketing manager for Ford. “Transit Connect Taxi has been popular in major metropolitan cities since it debuted in 2010, and it has only gotten better.”

The 2014 Ford Transit Connect Taxi comes with a new powertrain – the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a new, fuel-efficient six-speed automatic transmission – providing drivers with quick response as well as durability, low-rpm cruising and an expected best-in-class highway fuel economy rating.

Ford Transit Connect will be the only taxi offered with a compressed natural gas/liquefied petroleum gas engine prep package. Conversion to CNG/LPG is supported by a Ford Qualified Vehicle Modifier, enabling significant fuel cost savings.

Improved people mover
The redesign of Ford Transit Connect Taxi features a decreased vehicle height, providing improved clearance for taxicab companies to place advertising on the cabin roof. An interior hood release was added, giving drivers easy access to check fluid levels prior to starting a shift.

The second-generation Transit Connect Taxi is also longer, offering seating for five and increased cargo capacity. The roomy, flexible interior is perfectly suited for livery service and conversion to CNG and LPG. The vehicle’s cargo space accommodates a compressed gas tank, while leaving ample room for luggage and passenger headroom and legroom. It features an anticipated best-in-class 60.5 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the second row.

In contrast to a competitor’s compact van-based taxi, which uses a rear suspension with leaf springs and solid axle, Ford Transit Connect Taxi uses a modern, durable twist-beam rear suspension that prioritizes passenger comfort and cargo carrying capability.

The vehicle’s floor has been lowered for improved access to the cabin, and can be modified to be wheelchair-accessible through Ford’s Qualified Vehicle Modifier program.

Technology for the driver also has been upgraded, with useful options like rear view camera, 6.5-inch touch-screen display with navigation, and SYNC® with MyFord Touch® – Ford’s acclaimed voice-activated mobile communications system.

“The new Transit Connect Taxi has been designed with the for-hire transportation driver and their passengers in mind, creating a product that combines stylish looks and improved comfort with legendary Built Ford Tough quality,” said Gerald Koss, fleet marketing manager for Ford.

Taxi operators will benefit from Transit Connect Taxi’s rigorous testing and durability evaluations, which included opening and closing its sliding doors through 250,000 door-slam cycles.

Ford began offering Transit Connect Taxi with the 2011 model year, providing a commercial vehicle that is tested to the company’s toughest truck standards.

“Transit Connect was originally selected from Ford’s global portfolio of high-quality products to bring the advantages of alternative fuel as well as an outstanding interior package to the for-hire transportation industry,” Stoehr said.

The 2014 Ford Transit Connect Taxi will go into production and arrive in dealerships by early next year.
 



About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 177,000 employees and 65 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products worldwide, please visit corporate.ford.com.

9/21/13

Ford’s $700 Million Investment at Oakville Solidifies 2,800 Jobs to Meet Global Customer Demand

  • Ford’s C$700 million investment in Oakville Assembly secures 2,800 jobs, making it one of the most competitive and advanced global manufacturing plants in Canada
  • Global manufacturing helps Ford meet increasing demand for its new, fuel-efficient vehicles in world markets
  • Ford has now invested more than C$2 billion in Canada in less than a decade
  • Spending on Canadian-made auto parts by Ford to increase approximately C$200 million a year, to a total of nearly C$4 billion annually
Ford Motor Company, Canada’s top-selling automaker, is investing C$700 million at its Oakville Assembly plant, securing more than 2,800 jobs and expanding its manufacturing capability to meet surging global demand.

“This investment is helping us find much needed capacity for global products and securing jobs, and it is positioning Oakville as one of the most competitive and important facilities in the Ford system,” said Joe Hinrichs, president of The Americas, speaking from a ceremony at the plant today. “Global fuel-efficient products, built in a state-of-the-art facility, by a great workforce are a win for everyone today.”

Hinrichs said Ford will bring several new global models to the plant, helping to meet demand in North America and around the world by producing vehicles with best-in-class quality, fuel efficiency, smart design and value. He added that the company’s investment will mean its spending on Canadian-made auto parts will increase by approximately C$200 million, to a total of nearly C$4 billion annually.

The enhancements at Oakville Assembly are Ford’s latest step in maximizing its existing North American manufacturing assets, matching production to consumer demand as Ford’s North American sales surge to pre-recession levels. Sales of the Oakville Assembly-produced Edge in the United States – Edge’s biggest market – so far in 2013 are on pace to beat the prior record of 130,000 vehicles set in 2007.

The move to global manufacturing at the Oakville plant will enable Ford to shift production based on consumer demand more quickly and efficiently. The state-of-the-art facility will be able to align capacity of any one vehicle with real demand for Ford customers in North America and all over the world.

“If consumers suddenly shift their buying habits, we can seamlessly change our production mix without having to idle a plant,” said Hinrichs. “Flexible manufacturing enables us to get vehicles to consumers faster than ever before. This is a great value proposition for everyone.”

Ford currently utilizes nine global platforms around the world to build about 85 per cent of its vehicles. Global manufacturing offers Ford the opportunity to leverage commonality of components, design and build processes to streamline its ability to produce high-quality vehicles and accelerate production to meet growing consumer demand for Ford products.

“Ford’s investment demonstrates Canada can be competitive in the global market through strategic partnerships,” said Dianne Craig, president and CEO, Ford of Canada. “Working closely with government and labour, we have secured a bright future for our employees at Oakville Assembly.”
As part of the investment, Ford will also be increasing its sustainability and fuel efficiency research and development capacity in Ontario, including supporting studies in vehicle light-weighting, the reduction of stationary emissions from industrial facilities, and research into advanced engine development at Ford’s powertrain research facilities in Windsor.

With today’s announcement, Ford has now invested more than C$2 billion in Canada in less than a decade. In 2004, Ford announced a C$1 billion investment for Oakville Assembly to introduce flexible manufacturing to the facility. In 2010, the company announced a C$590 million investment for Essex Engine Plant in Windsor.

Investment in auto manufacturing directly benefits the Canadian economy. It is estimated every auto job generates up to 10 supporting jobs.

Work on the transformation at Oakville Assembly is already under way. It is expected to be completed by fall 2014.

“This is an incredible year for Oakville Assembly,” said Will Cowell, plant manager, Oakville Assembly. “We are celebrating the plant’s 60th anniversary and we passed the one-million mark in Ford Edge production. We look forward to continuing to celebrate many more milestones and to building quality vehicles with passion and excellence for years to come.”

Oakville Assembly manufactures Ford Edge, Ford Flex, Lincoln MKX and Lincoln MKT. 

About Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited

Ford of Canada’s operations include a national headquarters, three regional offices, two branch offices, three vehicle assembly and engine manufacturing plants, and two parts distribution centres. Ford employs approximately 6,000 people in Canada, while an additional 18,000 people are employed in the more than 400 Ford and Ford-Lincoln dealerships across the country. For more information, please visit www.ford.ca.

9/19/13

Ford Builds Two Millionth EcoBoost Engine as Consumer Demand Grows in Markets Worldwide

  • More than 100,000 EcoBoost engines now produced every month, with a target of 1.2 million for 2013, up more than 60 percent from 2012. For the first time, EcoBoost production expected to exceed Ford’s global diesel-engine production
  • Customer demand exceeds projections globally with 90 percent of Escape buyers in North America and 95 percent of Kuga buyers in Asia choosing EcoBoost; in diesel-centric Europe, 39 percent of Focus customers opt for EcoBoost
  • Ford doubled Cologne, Germany, production of 1.0-liter EcoBoost to 1,000 engines per day, and is investing $200 million to build 2.0-liter EcoBoost in the U.S.
  • Ford data shows North American consumers aware of EcoBoost are more likely to buy Ford vehicles than those unfamiliar with the engine technology; EcoBoost awareness also raising opinion of Ford among European and Asian consumers
Ford Motor Company today celebrates a manufacturing milestone for its fuel-saving EcoBoost engines: Two million have been produced globally since the 2009 launch of the engine line.
Growing customer demand for EcoBoost-powered vehicles in major markets worldwide is driving engine production higher. Factory output now averages more than 100,000 engines per month, up from 65,000 in 2012.
“Ford EcoBoost delivers great performance with lower fuel bills, a recipe that is proving incredibly popular with consumers around the world,” said Joe Bakaj, vice president, powertrain engineering for Ford. “EcoBoost engines are attracting new customers to the Ford brand every day, and our plants are working hard to keep up with demand.”

A Ford Escape powered by the two millionth production EcoBoost – a 2.0-liter unit – rolled off the line at Ford’s Louisville, Ky., last week.

EcoBoost technology combines smaller overall size with turbocharging, direct injection and variable valve timing to bring customers outstanding performance and fuel economy. Ford EcoBoost engines deliver up to 20 percent better fuel economy than larger-displacement gasoline engines.
Ford’s global EcoBoost engine family now includes the 1.0-liter three-cylinder; 1.5-liter, 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines; and the powerful 3.5-liter V6. EcoBoost technology is available in every region Ford serves worldwide, and will be offered on approximately 80 percent of the company’s global nameplates by the end of this year.

Better fuel efficiency — and lower fuel bills — are the top reasons for surging sales of optional EcoBoost engines. At today’s gas prices, the EPA’s fuel-economy website estimates an average annual fuel bill of $3,400 for a 2009 Ford F-150 2WD with a 5.4-liter V8 engine, but only $3,000 for a 2013 F-150 2WD with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. At this rate, a consumer would save an estimated $4,000 over a vehicle life of 10 years and 150,000 miles.

Working, saving… from farms to patrols
Businesses, too, are using EcoBoost-powered vehicles to cut fuel costs, while also tackling tough jobs. “The Ford EcoBoost engines provide an average mile and a half improvement over our V8-powered trucks at work,” said Lyle Azevedo, fleet manager for Grimmway Farms in Bakersfield, Calif., which is a major grower of carrots and other crops. “With a 150,000-mile life cycle and with $3.50 a gallon gas, we’re going to save over $300,000 on our fleet of 80 trucks over their lifetimes.”
The New Mexico State Police was at first hesitant to shift from V8 engines to V6s with EcoBoost technology, said Lt. Tony Gonzalez, who manages the department’s fleet of 60 Ford Police Interceptor sedans, 15 F-150 EcoBoost pickups and six Ford Fusion sedans equipped with EcoBoost engines.

“But we talked about the fuel economy and today we’re looking at a 10 to 15 percent fuel economy improvement and would be getting even more fuel economy improvement if we could keep our foot out of them, but they’re so fun to drive,” said Gonzalez. “We spend $250,000 to $300,000 a month on fuel, so the savings to taxpayers really adds up.”

Popularity, demand rising in North America
In North America, internal Ford data shows that the EcoBoost engine is now the most recognised fuel-efficient engine among consumers.
The popularity of EcoBoost in North America is reflected in high take rates on key models:
  • 90 percent of Ford Escape models are equipped with 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter EcoBoost engines
  • 50 percent of Fusion customers select one of three available EcoBoost models – the sedan is available with the 1.5-liter, 1.6-liter or 2.0-liter variants
  • 42 percent of F-150 trucks are purchased with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost
This year, EcoBoost will be available on more than 90 percent of North American nameplates, rising to 95 percent by 2015.
To meet demand for the award-winning 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, Ford is investing nearly $200 million to build the engine at its Cleveland, Ohio, engine plant, with production starting in 2014.

European expansion
In Europe, Ford is doubling production capacity at its Cologne, Germany, engine plant to more than 1,000 engines a day. This move is in response to robust demand for the 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine, which was named International Engine of the Year in 2012 and 2013 by a panel of auto journalists.
Already available on five European nameplates, the 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine will be fitted to 11 models by 2014. The three-cylinder unit is being chosen by a growing share of customers this year, accounting for 43 percent of B-MAX sales, 32 percent of Focus sales, 26 percent of Fiesta sales; and 24 percent of C-MAX and Grand C-MAX sales.

EcoBoost powertrains also are driving high demand for the Fiesta ST, with the1.6-liter EcoBoost, and Focus ST, with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost, while 18 percent of Kuga customers are choosing the 1.6-liter EcoBoost option in a segment that traditionally favors diesel engines. Nearly 40 percent more European customers are familiar with EcoBoost technology today compared to 2011, internal Ford data shows.

The Cologne plant also has begun production of the 1.0-liter EcoBoost for the North American market. The new 2014 Ford Fiesta – which goes on sale later this year – will be the first vehicle available in the United States with the 1.0-liter engine, and is expected to be certified as the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid car available in the United States.

Growth in Asia Pacific
In Asia Pacific, sales of EcoBoost vehicles through August are up 202 percent year-over-year in 2013, including a 189-percent rise in China. Ford plans to offer the fuel-efficient engine in 20 vehicles in the region by mid-decade, a five-fold increase from 2012.

Ninety-five percent of Kuga buyers in Asia Pacific are choosing the1.6-liter EcoBoost engine, while 90 percent of Edge owners and 62 percent of Mondeo buyers are opting for the efficient engines.
Ford will soon begin production of the 1.0-liter EcoBoost at the $500 million Changan Ford engine plant in Chongqing, China, which opened in June.

# # #

Global Ford EcoBoost engine production – total since launch:
 Plant

Engine Production
Cologne/Craiova 1.0-liter 284,000
Bridgend/Craiova 1.5-liter/1.6-liter 549,000
Valencia 2.0-liter 532,000
Cleveland 3.5-liter 635,000
Total
2,000,000

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 177,000 employees and 65 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products worldwide, please visit corporate.ford.com.

About Ford Europe

Ford Europe is responsible for producing, selling and servicing Ford brand vehicles in 50 individual markets and employs approximately 47,000 employees at its wholly owned facilities and approximately 69,000 people when joint ventures and unconsolidated businesses are included. In addition to Ford Motor Credit Company, Ford Europe operations include Ford Customer Service Division and 24 manufacturing facilities (15 wholly owned or consolidated joint venture facilities and nine unconsolidated joint venture facilities). The first Ford cars were shipped to Europe in 1903 – the same year Ford Motor Company was founded. European production started in 1911.



9/17/13

Strong Customer Demand Drives Ford F-150 SVT Raptor Sales to New Heights

 

  • Raptor sales have hit record highs in 8 of the past 10 months
  • Ford growing the market for increasingly specialized full-sized pickup trucks
  • Since launching in 2009, production has increased from two trucks per hour to five
Ford F-150 SVT Raptor, the ultimate high-performance off-road pickup truck, continues to find new fans and sales success.

Hitting the market in 2009, Raptor has had record sales during 8 of the past 10 months and sales are up 14 percent in 2013. Raptor is also one of the fastest-turning vehicles in the automotive industry, with only a 15-day supply on dealer lots.

Day supply is common industry measurement of retail customer sales demand. The lower the figure, the less time a vehicle remains on a dealer lot before it’s sold. A 60-day supply is considered average for the auto industry.

“What’s helping drive Raptor sales is that Raptor delivers unmatched off-road performance to our customers,” said Doug Scott, Ford truck group marketing manager. “Raptor is also proof of our commitment to offer a truck for every customer and continuously improving them to meet our customers’ evolving needs.”

The 2014 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor Special Edition is the latest variant. Following the 2013 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor, which added available segment-exclusive HID headlights and industry-first factory forged-aluminum conventional wheels that can be upgraded to beadlocks, the 2014 Raptor Special Edition adds interior and exterior upgrades to further differentiate its appearance and appeal to luxury truck buyers looking for uncompromising off-road performance.

With Raptor sales expected to remain strong, Ford will increase Raptor production, growing assembly from three trucks per hour to five trucks per hour.

The growing demand and increase in production points to a larger phenomenon of increased specialization in the full-size pickup category.

While trucks traditionally have been bought by businesses and individuals to do the hard work of building and moving America, buyers have increasingly flocked to pickups offering exceptional luxury, performance or in the case of the new Raptor Special Edition, both.

SVT Raptor prowess and power
Since launching as a 2010 model, the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor has set the benchmark for low- and high-speed off-road performance through aggressive all-terrain tires, industry-exclusive internal triple-bypass FOX Racing Shox dampers, skid plates and standard Hill Descent Control .

A Raptor development imperative has been continuous improvement, so Ford expanded Raptor’s footprint for 2011 with a four-door SuperCrew® model joining the two-door SuperCab original.

For 2012 Ford began offering a grille-mounted camera to improve driver visibility when climbing over rocks or other obstacles. The 2012 addition of a Torsen® limited-slip differential to Raptor’s 4WD system enables the truck to balance traction between both front wheels.

For 2013 industry-exclusive beadlock-capable wheels were added to help increase grip in low-traction conditions, along with high-intensity discharge headlamps for improved visibility. SYNC® with MyFord Touch® also was made available for added connectivity.

SVT Raptor is available exclusively with a 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 411 horsepower and 434 lb.-ft. of torque, mated to an electronic six-speed automatic transmission with tow/haul mode and

SelectShift Automatic ® functionality. The 4WD system features electronic shift-on-the-fly capability for the transfer case.

The front axle features a Torsen differential with 4.10:1 gearing. The rear axle is also 4.10:1, with a high speed electronic-locking differential.




About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 177,000 employees and 65 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products worldwide, please visit corporate.ford.com.

9/15/13

Ford and American Humane Association Remind Pickup Truck Drivers: Dogs Ride Inside

  • American Humane Association experts caution that pets should never be transported in the bed of a pickup truck
  • 100,000 dogs die each year riding in truck beds
  • Simple, basic steps can help keep pets safe and driver distractions down
Ford and the American Humane Association have teamed up in a new pet
safety campaign to remind pickup truck drivers that dogs should never
ride in the bed of a pickup truck. Called “Dogs Ride Inside,” the
campaign reminds all drivers that simple, basic actions can prevent
serious injury or death while transporting a beloved family pet.


“It is estimated that 100,000 dogs die each year riding in truck
beds” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of American Humane
Association, the country’s first national humane organization.
“Unfortunately, we have all seen dogs riding in the bed of a pickup
truck, which is an extremely dangerous way to transport your pet.”

“As America’s truck leader, this is an issue that’s close to the
heart for us,” said Doug Scott, Ford Truck Group Marketing Manager.
“We’re not asking that people go to onerous lengths while driving with
pets, but even the smallest steps can make a difference in keeping all passengers in our vehicles safe.”


The American Humane Association and Ford recommend:

  • All animals should ride inside a pickup truck cab – never in the bed of a truck.
  • At the very minimum, your pet should always ride in the back seat if
    your truck has one. An animal in the front seat can quickly become a
    driver distraction and cause an accident, jeopardizing the pet and
    everyone else in the vehicle. The highest volume F-Series trucks – the
    F-150 SuperCrew® and Super Duty Crew Cab both have spacious
    second-row seats ideal for man’s best friend. Better yet is to restrain,
    contain or crate your pet with a pet carrier or specially designed pet
    seatbelt.
  • Dogs love sticking their heads outside of a moving car, but that’s
    also one of the easiest ways for a pet to be injured, whether it’s from a
    flying rock or even falling out of the vehicle. It’s OK to briefly roll
    the window down to satisfy a curious nose, but not more than that. Wind
    can seriously irritate mucous membranes and blow pieces of grit into
    their eyes.
  • Just in case you and your pet become separated, be sure that all ID
    tags are properly affixed to your pet’s collar and that they have your
    current contact information, including cell number(s). Your pet should
    also have an ID microchip implanted – and make sure the microchip
    registration and pet license information is up-to-date. Consider
    including the name and phone number of an emergency contact.
  • Never leave pets unattended inside of vehicles. Remember that cars heat up fast – even with the windows cracked.
This fall, Ford will sponsor a month-long adoption and pet safety
tour in conjunction with Fido Friendly magazine. “Get Your Licks on
Route 66” will visit 15 cities from Los Angeles to Chicago promoting pet
safety and adoption; in the first four years of the tour more than
1,500 animals have been placed in new homes. Shelters along the route
and dates can be found at getyourlicksonroute66.com.


About American Humane Association

American Humane Association is the country’s first
national humane organization and the only one dedicated to protecting
both children and animals. Since 1877 American Humane Association has
been at the forefront of virtually every major advance in protecting our
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leading the way in understanding the human-animal bond and its role in
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American Humane Association at www.americanhumane.org and remember to follow us on Facebook and Twitter.


About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company,
a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich.,
manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With
about 177,000 employees and 65 plants worldwide, the company’s
automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides
financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more
information regarding Ford and its products worldwide, please visit corporate.ford.com.

9/13/13

New Ford Transit Connect Wins ‘International Van of the Year 2014’; Ford is First Single Manufacturer to Win Twice in a Row


  • All-new Ford Transit Connect wins “International Van of the Year 2014” award, presented at the COMTRANS commercial vehicle exhibition in Moscow
  • Ford is first single manufacturer to win the award for two years in a row; wins award for record-equalling fifth time
  • Jury of 24 journalists awards Transit Connect 130 points from a maximum possible 163; ahead of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Renault Kangoo; praises fuel economy, design, driveability, load-carrying and safety
  • Ford’s previous “International Van of the Year” winners are: the Transit (2001), Transit Connect (2003), Transit (2007), and Transit Custom (2013)
  • Transit Connect also available with multi-award winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, the 2012 and 2013 International Engine of the Year.
The all-new Ford Transit Connect was today named “International Van of the Year 2014” at the COMTRANS commercial vehicle exhibition in Moscow as Ford became the first single manufacturer to win the award for two consecutive years.

Ford registered a record-equalling fifth “International Van of the Year” victory after the jury of 24 European specialist journalists awarded the Transit Connect 130 points from a maximum possible 163 to put it ahead of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (123) and Renault Kangoo (25).

The award for the all-new Transit Connect follows previous successes for the Transit (2001), Transit Connect (2003), Transit (2007) and Transit Custom (2013).

“The all-new Transit Connect has moved the game on for compact vans – and we are really proud to win this significant award again,” said Barb Samardzich, vice president of Product Development, Ford of Europe. “The new Transit Connect is just as tough and hard-working as all our commercial vehicle range, and comes with smart new looks and much lower fuel bills.”

As Ford completely redesigns its entire commercial vehicle line-up over a two-year period, the stylish new Transit Connect joins an all-new four-strong Transit range, alongside the Transit Custom and the forthcoming 2-tonne Transit and Transit Courier to be launched in 2014.

The Transit Connect offers van operators class-leading fuel economy, load carrying ability and durability, with the ECOnetic model delivering 4.0 l/100 km (70.6 mpg) and CO2 emissions of 105 g/km* – a 34 per cent improvement versus the current model. The highly fuel-efficient 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine also offers class-leading petrol economy.

Available in Van, Double-Cab-in-Van and Kombi bodystyles, the Transit Connect also offers a spacious and practical load area with total volumes of 2.9 m3 and 3.6 m3 with a full bulkhead; maximum payloads of up to 1,000 kg match the best in class figure.

“The all-new Transit Connect impressed the jury on a number of fronts, and above all by the fact Ford has succeeded in building a light van with a strong accent on economics – the vehicle is a good answer to the needs of small operators as well as big fleets to reduce the cost of transport of goods,” said Pieter Wieman, chairman of the “International Van of the Year” jury.

“The loading space offers several innovative aspects such as load-through hatch in the bulkhead, fold-up front passenger seat and a sliding side door in the long-wheelbase model which enables a Europallet to be loaded,” Wieman said. “Ford has also paid a lot of attention to durability and safety, subjecting the van to commercial vehicle testing and durability standards, and being first in its class to offer features like Active City Stop.”

The prestigious “International Van of the Year” award adds to Ford’s already impressive performance over the last two years. The Ford Ranger won the “International Pickup Award 2013”, and Ford’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine was named “International Engine of the Year” in 2012 and 2013.

“Our teams across Europe are justifiably over the moon with this great news” said Stephen Lesh, Transit Connect chief program engineer. “The team has worked tirelessly to deliver the perfect vehicle for our hard-working customers, and this is a wonderful day for all those responsible for the

Transit Connect across Europe.”

The all-new Transit Connect is now available to order for delivery in late 2013.

# # #
* Equipped with a fixed 100 km/h (62 mph) speed limiter. The stated fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are measured according to the technical requirements and specifications of the European Regulation (EC) 715/2007 as last amended. Results in MPG also correspond to this European drive cycle and are stated in imperial gallons. The results may differ from fuel economy figures in other regions of the world due to the different drive cycles and regulations used in those markets

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 177,000 employees and 65 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information about Ford and its products worldwide please visit 
www.corporate.ford.com.

Ford Europe is responsible for producing, selling and servicing Ford brand vehicles in 50 individual markets and employs approximately 47,000 employees at its wholly owned facilities and approximately 69,000 people when joint ventures and unconsolidated businesses are included. In addition to Ford Motor Credit Company, Ford Europe operations include Ford Customer Service Division and 24 manufacturing facilities (15 wholly owned or consolidated joint venture facilities and nine unconsolidated joint venture facilities). The first Ford cars were shipped to Europe in 1903 – the same year Ford Motor Company was founded. European production started in 1911.


About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 177,000 employees and 65 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products worldwide, please visit corporate.ford.com.

9/05/13

SnugTop Super Sport


With graceful lines that accentuate factory styling, frameless curved glass windows and a finished edge that blends into the truck bed, the Super Sport camp simply looks like it belongs on the truck.

    1. Fuel Saving Aerodynamic Styling
    3. Built-In LED Brake Light
    4. Matching OEM Factory Colors
    5. Flush-mounted Glued-in Side Windows
    6. Pop-out Windows for Ventilation
    7. Rotary Latch Locking System
    8. Wrap-Around Fiberglass Rail
    9. Channeled Rain Gutter
    12. Hidden Mounting System

    2. Convenient Lock Options
        Key Operated Lock
        Remote Operated Lock
        Pro-Lock
        Pro-Lock Remote Operated
        Pop-Out Lock
        Codeable Lock (Only for Ford, Chevy and Dodge full size trucks available)
    10. Roof Rack Options
    11. One-Piece Construction
    13. Heavy Duty Hinges and Hardware
    14. Interior Lighting Options

9/03/13

Meet Floyd Pullin, Honorary President of Ford Trucks*

* for a day
 

Ford would like to introduce Floyd Pullin of Confluence, Pa. The sprightly 102-year-old is possibly Ford’s most loyal customer, having been an exclusive Ford owner since the 1920s – back when Henry Ford was running the company. Floyd recently took delivery of his 16th Ford vehicle, a brand-new 2013 F-150 STX.

To thank him for his loyalty and help celebrate a birthday he won’t forget, Ford has named Floyd honorary Ford Trucks president for a day. At a special party held at Thurby Riverside Ford in Confluence today, Floyd’s family and friends gathered to help him mark the occasion, which included a special happy birthday video from the men and women of the Ford Trucks team. Floyd’s video can be found at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4kib6iwFuaI&feature=youtu.be.

Pennsylvania state senator Rich Kasunic was on hand with an official Birthday Celebration Proclamation from the Pennsylvania Senate.

9/01/13

Harbor Highliner for the Sheriff!






Looks like the sheriff gets a Ford F250 Extended Cab with a Harbor Highliner. One things for sure they are going to get plenty of storage space!

The Harbor Truck Bodies Highliner Body is a TradeMaster Service Body with a set of boxes on top that have doors that open upward giving additional space for unique size storage. Because the doors open upward assisted with gas shocks, the items inside are easily seen. A great choice for someone needing a bit more storage in a great looking package!

The bed area is covered with a 3-piece Cargo Bed Enclosure that opens up approximately 66% of the bed area. Cargo Bed Enclosures are very popular options that help keep cargo in the bed area out of sight and secure. The rear barn doors provide security for the body's totally enclosed contents.