Chuck Stevens Ford

DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 9, 2010 - Ford Explorer, America's most popular utility vehicle and safety innovator, is now a fuel economy leader. With an EPA-certified 25 mpg highway rating ? a 25 percent fuel economy gain over the outgoing V6 model ? the 2011 Explorer  sets a new benchmark for vehicles in its class.

DEARBORN, Mich., December 3 The Ford Volunteer Corps is cooking, delivering and collecting food as it sends MODEL Teams of volunteers into local communities to help feed the hungry.  During today's Ford Accelerated Action Day, hundreds of Ford employee and retiree volunteers are stocking shelves in food storage warehouses, packing holiday food boxes for families in need and serving meals in soup kitchens.

Ford volunteers are answering an urgent call to help. Each day hundreds of thousands of people in southeast Michigan struggle to find food. Ford employees in partnership with local nonprofit hunger relief agencies are helping to distribute food and feed people in shelters, missions and family centers.

Hunger is a painful reality for many people in our local communities, said Jim Vella, president, Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services. "We are thankful that we have the resources to share with our neighbors in need." 

Many of the organizations participating in today's volunteer effort also receive Ford mini-grants of up to $5,000 to buy food and other items needed to complete their projects.  More than $50,000 in mini-grants has been awarded to participating agencies, including: 

•     Capuchin Soup Kitchen, Detroit  assemble 750 food boxes that feed a family of four
•     Fish & Loaves Food Pantry, Taylor  sort 168,000 pounds of food purchased with Ford grant
•     Focus Hope, Detroit  assemble 4,000 food boxes for area seniors
•     Food Gatherers, Ann Arbor pack 750 food boxes containing 25 meals each
•     Gleaners Community Food Bank, Pontiac  fill 950 weekend meal backpacks for children
•     Ruth Ellis Center, Highland Park stock food pantry and pack meals for street outreach
•     St. Leo's Soup Kitchen, Detroit  prepare and serve lunch for more than 200 people
•     Salvation Army-Harbor Light, Detroit serve meals to 3,000 homeless people
•     Southwest Housing Solutions, Detroit cook and serve holiday meals for residents
•     Veteran's Haven, Wayne coat drive, and sort food for distribution to 225 veterans and their families

In addition to the Ford Accelerated Action Day, Ford is a sponsor of the holiday Meals on Wheels program for thousands of seniors in Michigan.

Nine specially equipped vehicles recently were added to a fleet of 98 refrigerated trucks that are being used to collect and distribute food in all 50 states. Part of a ten-year partnership with Newman's Own and Feeding America, the trucks have traveled more than 5.7 million miles and delivered more than 130 million meals.

Ford also created a fun way for high school students in southeast Michigan to get involved through Dec. 12. Students in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb County high schools can compete for a school-wide pizza party and school supplies by collecting canned goods and non-perishable packaged food items and using them to build a look-alike Ford Explorer. Contest details are available at www.clickondetroit.com.  Pictures of school entries will be posted on this site, where the public can vote on the three finalists on Dec. 13 and 14.  Tips for building the Explorer can be found on facebook.com/pages/Ford-in-the-Community. After the contest, Gleaners Food Bank will pick up and distribute the donated food in the tri-county area.

Ford is continuing a long tradition of caring and community service by addressing one of the most basic of human needs," said Janet Lawson, director, Ford Volunteer Corps. Collecting food and feeding people is an important step toward creating a better world."  
In 2010, more than 20,000 Ford employees and retirees have volunteered to help people in local communities around the world.

About Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services

Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services works to build communities through partnerships that support education, driving safety and American heritage and community life.  Celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2009 and made possible by funding from Ford Motor Company, its programs include Ford Partnership for Advanced Studies, which provides high school students with academically rigorous, interactive learning experiences, and Ford Driving Skills for Life, an award-winning teen-focused driving safety program.  Through the Ford Volunteer Corps, more than 20,000 Ford employees and retirees participate in a wide range of volunteer projects in dozens of countries around the world. For more information, visit www.community.ford.com .

DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 20, 2010 The 2011 Ford F-150 EcoBoost race truck with the torture-tested hero engine finished one of the most grueling desert endurance races in the world the Tecate SCORE Baja 1000 in 38 hours and 20 minutes, after 1,061 miles.

The 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine used to power the race truck performed spectacularly in the harsh terrain and extreme temperature swings of the Baja California Peninsula. The truck endured hard accelerations often at full throttle and stiff decelerations across the mountains at temperatures that swung between freezing and 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Though the EcoBoost engine entered the race with the equivalent of 10 years worth of rugged use, its inherent performance advantages twin turbochargers and direct fuel injection helped it complete the race.

I've never seen anything like it in a stock engine especially one that's been through what this one has, said driver Mike McCarthy. This EcoBoost engine didn't miss a beat. It took a beating and kept right on going. This is one tough engine.

Earlier this fall, the engine was randomly selected off the line from the Cleveland Engine Plant to be put through a series of rugged exercises to test its long-term durability. It was installed in a 2011 F-150 at the Kansas City Assembly Plant then traveled to Oregon where it worked as a log skidder. Next, the truck towed 11,300 pounds at high speeds around a NASCAR track in Florida before towing up steep grades in Arizona against competitive trucks.

Last week, the engine was removed from the F-150 and installed in a race truck to take on the extreme conditions and terrain of the Baja 1000 in Mexico. In last year's race, fewer than half of the competitors many with modified engines finished this race.

The Baja 1000 represented the culmination of the F-150 EcoBoost torture test program, demonstrating the durability and capability of the class-leading 3.5-liter EcoBoost truck engine. Viewers can visit http://www.fordvehicles.com/trucks/f150/2011/experiencef150  to view each of the episodes as they are posted.

While racing is action-packed and exciting, it serves a very real purpose for our engineers to learn about vehicle and engine performance that directly benefits our customers, said Cliff Irey, Ford Truck Motorsports manager. Baja race is no different. In the last 30 hours we learned a tremendous amount about the durability of this new F-150 engine, the EcoBoost. And we're delighted to report that the EcoBoost engine showed it was up to this test.

The engine that powered the race truck goes next to Ford's powertrain laboratory for a teardown and inspection.

The EcoBoost truck engine produces a best-in-class 420 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,500 rpm and 365 horsepower at 5,000 rpm. Up to 90 percent of its peak torque is available from 1,700 rpm to 5,000 rpm, which helps drivers stay in the power.

The Baja 1000 is always a tough race, and many of our customers and enthusiasts saw this event as the ultimate challenge, said Eric Kuehn, chief engineer of the 2011 Ford F-150. It was an outstanding opportunity to showcase the 3.5-liter EcoBoost truck engine's durability. We took an engine that's stock and essentially 10 years old, and raced on the same course with highly modified competition with up to 800 horsepower.

DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 9, 2010 With its global launch near, the all-new Ford Focus takes on the role of official vehicle for the 2011 International CES, considered the largest technology trade show in the world.

The tech-packed Focus is a perfect match for CES, which runs from Jan. 6-9 in Las Vegas. As the official car, Focus will have a prominent presence during the show, including more product-specific signage, displays, demonstrations and materials. Focus follows in the footsteps of the 2010 Ford Taurus, which was the official car at the 2010 CES held earlier this year.

The all-new Focus harnesses the best of what Ford Motor Company has to offer, delivering class-leading features and technologies as well as an expected 40 mpg, said Ken Czubay, vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service, Ford Motor Company. We're excited for Focus to reach dealers in North America and Europe in early 2011 and want to share that excitement and the unprecedented level of technology Focus has to offer with the global consumer electronics industry an increasingly important influence on new vehicles

The new Focus will share the spotlight at CES with Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally, who will deliver a keynote address at the trade show for the third consecutive year. Further upping the ante at CES, Ford is also increasing its display's floor space fourfold for the 2011 show and expects to have more than twenty vehicles on display throughout the event.

We welcome Ford, Alan Mulally and the new Focus to the 2011 International CES, said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO of the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), producer of the International CES. Vehicles such as the Focus are built with the latest technologies that address consumer demand for on-the-go innovations.

Chockfull of tech
Studies by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) show that as many as 77 million adults make up the so-called technology enthusiast drivers population, more than half of whom express the desire for a connected communications and information system in their vehicles.

The all-new Focus features Ford SYNC, MyFord Touch driver connect technology, Intelligent Access with Push Button Start, Sony Audio with HD Radio and Active Park Assist, among other advanced technologies more often associated with larger, premium vehicle segments.

For avid in-car tech lovers, Focus with MyFord Touch will feature a Wi-Fi radio that will provide Internet access when a compatible USB mobile broadband modem is inserted into SYNC's USB port producing a secure wireless hot spot that will be broadcast throughout the vehicle. This secure connection will allow passengers with Wi-Fi-enabled mobile devices to access the web while on the go.

Tech enthusiasts as well as music lovers also will appreciate that Focus will be the first car in its class available with an audio system supplied by global consumer electronics leader Sony®. Featuring a class D digital amplifier developed specifically for Focus, this system has 10 speakers, three-layer soft dome tweeters and a subwoofer offering up 355 watts of continuous power. Coupled with MyFord Touch, the Focus audio system also features HD Radio technology with iTunes Tagging also a first in its class.

Customers want smaller cars with outstanding fuel economy, but without sacrificing any of the style, technology, connectivity and driving quality they demand from larger vehicles, said Czubay. With the all-new Focus leading the pack, our next-generation of smaller cars and utilities will prove that Ford is ready to meet that challenge.

People love to modify small cars, so it's no surprise that consumers and aftermarket companies are eager to get their hands on Ford's hot-selling Fiesta, set to debut at this year's SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) show in Las Vegas Nov. 2-5.

The Fiesta is one of those vehicles that resonates with everybody especially with the younger market. Whatever you're into, it works, said Melvin Betancourt, Ford specialty design manager. It lends itself to a lot of different themes. It's a perfect fit for the aftermarket and for customers who want to express their personality.

SEMA offers the perfect opportunity to showcase all the different ways the personalities of the Fiesta can be expressed, said Sam De La Garza, Fiesta brand manager.

It really shows how Fiesta can be accessorized and how this canvas can be altered to meet many different customer wants and desires, De La Garza said. SEMA represents a special opportunity, because we can show off unique designs that other companies have created. It's not just Ford coming to the table. It's other companies interpreting what Fiesta is, and bringing their own style to the Fiesta launch.

Customization is something already familiar to Fiesta owners. Ford Custom Accessories offers almost anything an owner would need to put a creative touch on Fiesta or give the car even more functionality. Accessory options include exterior or interior design items such as an illuminated gear indicator shift knob and rear spoiler, even a kayak carrier to haul outdoor gear. Customers also can order a body-side tattoo, or choose from one of 18 available graphics to put their own mark on Fiesta.

Small cars are unique in that people love to modify them, whether it's the exterior, interior, or even performance parts, De La Garza said.

Ford Racing Performance Parts is putting its own spin on a Fiesta at SEMA, outfitting a concept Fiesta in a way that is sure to get the hearts of high-performance enthusiasts pumping. The Fiesta will have a production-based 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, enlarged to 2.3 liters to pump out 350 horsepower.

The goal of our 350-horsepower Fiesta is really twofold first to reinforce Fiesta's fun-to-drive nature with an extreme version that captures the attention of the influential enthusiast, and second, to introduce the Ford Racing/EcoBoost connection in a way that's unexpected and outrageous, said Mickey Matus, Ford Racing Performance group marketing manager. In both cases, we're targeting the discriminating performance enthusiast with our message. After all, they are the people others rely on for automotive expertise and recommendations.

The car comes equipped with several Ford Racing Performance Parts options that are currently available at www.fordracingparts.com. A short-throw shifter offers more precise shifting, while a Ford Racing exhaust gives off a deeper, throatier exhaust note. Also available are 17-inch wheels that are cast-aluminum and painted in charcoal gray.

Additionally, the car features Brembo brakes that offer the ultimate in stopping power, and Ohlins dual-flow valve dampers that deliver comfort and agility.

Ford Racing's Fiesta will arrive in all-blue, pristine condition, and will be painted by a renowned artist during the show with the intention of auctioning the car in the future to benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund (JDRF).

Other Ford Fiesta project vehicles showcased at this year's SEMA show include:

2011 Ford Fiesta by Ford Vehicle Personalization
The Ford Vehicle Personalization Fiesta uses green accent colors on the wheels and grille to set off the unique car, which is equipped with a four-piece body kit. A new interior package debuts, featuring white-and-black seating surfaces, door trim inserts, steering wheel and interior components. It also comes with a newly developed side graphic an evolution of the tattoo graphic that is currently available.

2011 Ford Fiesta by Universal Technical Institute
This unique Fiesta from Universal Technical Institute offers a custom DuPont paint job and an Air Lift full digital suspension. A custom roll cage and Status racing seats make it track-ready, while Baer brakes and 18-inch wheels and tires provide upgraded performance.

2011 Ford Fiesta by 3dCarbon
3dCarbon's Euro Series Fiesta makes a bold statement with race-inspired styling, which includes 3dCarbon racing stripes, window films and rear roof spoiler. A four-piece body kit consists of an aggressively sculpted front air dam, aerodynamic side skirts and a rear lower skirt accented with black trim.

2011 Ford Fiesta by L&G Enterprises
L&G Enterprises has created the digital Fiesta, which shows off circuit board-inspired graphics on the exterior. Complete with a lowered and more aggressive stance, the Fiesta also has a new exhaust and air intake. Inside are carbon fiber accents, highlighting a sleek black interior with integrated iPad command center.

2011 Ford Fiesta by H&R Springs
This Fiesta by H&R Springs makes a style statement and demonstrates the versatility of Fiesta with several interior and exterior modifications. A color-matched body kit and large rear wing, along with European hood vents offer style and functional benefits. A graphics wrap around the car shows off a high-tech look, playing on the nature of Fiesta.

2011 Ford Fiesta by Steeda Autosports
Steeda Autosports is putting a Fiesta on display that has serious handling and performance upgrades for enthusiasts. A short-throw shifter and cold air intake developed by Steeda up the performance level. Additionally, tuned front and rear lowering sport springs, retuned dampers, antiroll bars and a front strut tower brace provide what enthusiasts are looking for in a high-performance car.

2011 Ford Fiesta by FSWerks
FSWerks is showing its appreciation for the all-new Fiesta with a complete line of high-performance parts. Features on the SEMA vehicle include FSWerks-developed cool flow air intake system and race exhaust, along with stress bars. Other modifications include a body kit, Continental ExtremeContact DW tires and Aristo Noble two-piece wheels.

The exciting next-generation Ford Focus ST makes its global debut at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, providing an early preview of the new high-performance model which will be introduced around the world in 2012.

Ford's first global high performance model and a star attraction for Ford in Paris, the powerful new Focus ST show car was revealed today by Alan Mulally, Ford's President and CEO, and Stephen Odell, Chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe.

This range-topping Focus will be completely true to Ford's ST model heritage, offering driving enthusiasts an intoxicating cocktail of exhilarating performance and handling, an addictive sound and muscular sports design.
"The ST will be the performance flagship of our new Focus range, and we are excited to provide our enthusiast customers with an early preview in Paris," said Gunnar Herrmann, Ford Motor Company's Global C-car Vehicle Line Director. "The ST represents an ultimate expression of Focus driving quality and performance and we are confident that the new model will strengthen the reputation of Ford's ST heritage among enthusiast drivers and attract new fans as well."

Global Performance Model
One common Focus ST model is being developed for all global markets, with the vehicle targeted for launch during 2012. This will be the first time that Ford has produced one of its highly regarded high-performance models for a global audience.

The Focus ST development programme is being undertaken by Ford's global Performance Vehicles group, which comprises Team RS (Europe) and SVT (USA) engineers, who are dedicated to developing and tuning products like the formidable Focus RS, Shelby GT500 and F-150 SVT Raptor.

For new Focus ST the development is being led by Team RS performance specialists based in Europe, building on their extensive experience in engineering sought-after cars like the previous ST models and legendary RS series.

"The new Focus ST will be our first true global performance vehicle and we are excited about the chance to give many customers worldwide their first taste of Ford's acclaimed ST heritage," said Jost Capito, Director of Global Performance Vehicles. "Like the ST and RS models before it, the Focus ST will be the result of painstaking tuning around the curves of the Nürburgring, along high-speed German autobahns, and down classic British B-roads.

"For European drivers, the Focus ST will bring the same distinctive qualities of pure dynamics and performance that have created the unique appeal of our ST heritage.

"For enthusiasts in North America and Asia who have asked why our compact performance models were not available to them - the wait is almost over! The new Focus ST will offer exactly the same exciting driving experience wherever it's on sale," added Capito.

More Performance - and More Economy - from Ford EcoBoost Power
At the heart of the appeal of the next-generation Focus ST is a high-output 250 PS derivative of the efficient and advanced new 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost four-cylinder petrol engine.

Succeeding the turbocharged 2.5-litre five-cylinder unit of the current European model, this unique 250 PS Ford EcoBoost engine is being specially developed for the new Focus ST to ensure that the car gets the muscular performance - and the inspirational sound - which it deserves. It also marks the first application of the four-cylinder Ford EcoBoost engine in a high performance model.

Compared to the 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost engine used in other Ford vehicles, the 250 PS unit features re-designed intake and exhaust systems and a unique engine calibration to deliver the desired level of power and responsiveness. The engine retains the strong torque delivery which is a feature of Ford EcoBoost designs, with a broad, flat torque curve offering a maximum output of 360 Nm.

One of a completely new generation of downsized, high-efficiency, low-CO2 petrol engines from Ford, the 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost is a lightweight, all-aluminium design which combines three technologies - high-pressure direct injection, low-inertia turbocharging and twin independent variable cam timing - to create an advanced combustion system which brings new levels of performance and fuel efficiency to petrol engines in this power range.

This ultra efficient 250 PS engine therefore not only delivers over 10 per cent more power and torque than the current 2.5-litre unit, it is also estimated to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by more than 20 per cent.

The standard transmission for the Focus ST is a 6-speed manual gearbox, optimised with more sporting ratios carefully matched to the performance characteristics of the engine.

Genuine Performance and Handling
Ford Team RS performance vehicle specialists have a mission: to ensure that the new Focus ST delivers the pure performance and handling everyone expects from a genuine Ford ST model.

Compared to the standard Focus, the ST model will feature a comprehensive range of enhancements including a chassis lowered by 10mm, a substantially different variable ratio steering system, high performance brakes and unique suspension tuning, that will enable the vehicle to deliver the acclaimed ST handling agility and poise.

Naturally, the ST will also benefit from the performance improvements being delivered by the next-generation Focus vehicle architecture. Features like a stronger, stiffer body structure, optimised front and rear suspension system designs, and a new electric power assisted steering (EPAS) system all contribute to superior vehicle dynamics and improved refinement.

Unprecedented Level of Smart Technologies
Focus ST drivers will also be able to take advantage of the unprecedented level of smart new technologies incorporated in Ford's latest global C-car platform, including advanced new driver assistance, powertrain, chassis and active safety features.

Many of these features, such as the advanced new Torque Vectoring Control system - which acts like a torque vectoring differential to enhance cornering stability and agility - have a direct impact on improving driving quality to an even higher level.

"This is the third generation Focus ST and we are determined that the new car will continue the strong heritage of affordable, high performance ST models into the future," said Jost Capito. "The technology on offer with Ford's new global C-car platform will also help to ensure that the Focus ST provides enthusiasts with an exceptional driving experience."

Unique High-Performance Exterior
The new Focus ST features a highly distinctive sports exterior, providing significant functional and aerodynamic benefits and clearly differentiating the ST derivative from other models in the new Focus family.

While sharing the already sleek and dynamic profile of the new Focus five-door, the ST features unique front- and rear-end designs, together with muscular extended rocker panels and striking new alloy wheels based on the classic Y-spoke ST pattern.

"The changes we have made to deliver superior aerodynamics and vehicle performance have made the new Focus ST even more sporty and distinctive," explained Martin Smith, Executive Design Director. "Exciting new design treatments at the front and rear give the ST a much more dynamic and purposeful character, making it very clear that this is definitely a sporting Focus."

The more sporting design language is particularly evident at the front end, where the twin upper and lower grilles of the standard car are replaced by a prominent new one-piece design.

Representing the sportiest definition yet of Ford's signature trapezoidal grille, the bold one-piece design is placed higher on the nose of the vehicle, and incorporates a distinctive hexagonal mesh finished in high gloss black.

The front spoiler has a completely new configuration, with a deep central splitter framed by small motorsport-inspired spoiler blades on either side, which sweep round and encompass the fog lamps. The spoiler blades are linked to the rest of the body lines through the grille structure, which is reminiscent of the similar treatment in the current Focus RS model.

The more assertive, sporting character of the front end is completed by details like the gloss black finish to the headlamp bezels, and the bold red ST badge on the one-piece grille.

From the side, muscular extended rocker panels emphasise the lowered chassis, and the bold wheel arches are filled with 19-inch alloy wheels which are the latest evolution of the classic Y-spoke ST wheel.

Dynamic Rear End Treatment
The rear bumper and lower fascia is also completely new, with prominent diffuser-style vents on either side which mirror the form of the front spoiler blades. Rear lamps with a dark smoked tint enhance the sporty feel.

The new Focus ST has a high-performance exhaust system, which exits the vehicle through a central dual-pipe outlet. The exhaust outlet has been given a highly-distinctive design treatment with a strong kinetic form which emulates the design themes on the rest of the car.

The car's aerodynamic package is completed by a highly effective integrated roof spoiler, which has been optimised to deliver improved high-speed stability and reduced drag. With a larger, more exaggerated design than the spoiler on the current Focus ST, it incorporates ducting to the rear screen and has been carefully integrated with the vehicle tailgate and roof.

Dramatic New Body Colour
The Paris preview car is finished in a dramatic new 'Tangerine Scream' body colour, which reflects the exciting and energetic new character of the Focus ST.

A spiritual successor to the signature Electric Orange finish of the current Focus ST, Tangerine Scream is a very intense and vibrant high-saturation metallic yellow-gold tone created using an experimental process with multiple layers of tinted lacquer.

"Such an exciting new car deserves an exciting new finish and we believe that this vibrant new colour will prove just as memorable as Electric Orange," said Martin Smith. "You can expect to see a very similar shade when the ST reaches the showroom."

To complement the vibrant exterior colour, the 19-inch alloy wheels have a warm, anodised Golden Graphite finish. Their sophisticated five-spoke design is contrasted by the brake calipers which are brightly painted in body colour.

Bold High-Contrast Sports Cockpit
The performance theme from the exterior is echoed inside the car, with a very bold high-contrast sports cockpit featuring Recaro seats, unique instrumentation and modern, highly technical finishes.

Dramatically-bolstered and rally-inspired Recaro leather and fabric front seats provide an ideal balance between sporting support and long-distance comfort, and form the centrepiece of the cabin.

The seats are finished in high-quality Charcoal Black leather, offset by bold orange gold panels in a neoprene fabric and vibrant yellow-gold contrast stitching. The central Charcoal Black fabric seat panels feature a rugged embossed design in the style of a performance tyre tread pattern. The rear Recaro seats are finished in the same distinctive style.

Throughout the cabin, unique details ensure that the Focus ST clearly signals its sporting intent. Three additional gauges for turbo boost, oil pressure and oil temperature are housed in a dedicated binnacle on the upper instrument panel; the instrument cluster features unique ST sports graphics with red needle pointers; and the centre console has a technical carbon-effect finish.

The interior has the signature ST treatment of a dark interior environment, with black headlining, bespoke steering wheel and a gear knob featuring the ST logo, plus metal racing pedals.

The premium sports feel of the cabin is enhanced by a generous use of Charcoal Black leather with vibrant yellow-gold contrast stitching on many of the interior surfaces, including the seats, door panels, central armrest, steering wheel, gearshift gaiter and the top of the instrument binnacle.

"The Focus ST will be a serious driving machine, and we have developed a purposeful exterior combined with a cockpit that blends sporting function with impressive comfort," said Stephen Odell. "The approach of form following function is a key part of the ST DNA, and we have remained true to that both inside and outside the vehicle."

DEARBORN, Mich., Sept. 13, 2010 - Ford E-Series, America's best-selling full-size van for 31 straight years, marks 50 years of meeting customer needs with production of the 2011 model, enhanced with state-of-the-art technologies at Ford's Ohio Assembly Plant in Avon Lake.
 
E-Series, synonymous with capability and reliability since its debut in 1961, will offer a commemorative 50th anniversary edition, available as an XLT model, the van's premium package. The anniversary edition features unique blue metallic exterior paint, specially embroidered "Econoline" front seatbacks and unique "Econoline 50 Years" badging on the left-rear cargo door.
 
It's all designed to appeal to the enthusiast who recognizes the long-term durability of a van that has maintained a steady presence throughout 50 years of societal change.
 
"Ford has maintained its level of success for E-Series by continually monitoring its customers' needs and maintaining a high level of quality," said Craig Ruggirello, assistant marketing manager for E-Series. "If there's a secret to its success, that might just be it."
 
Back in the beginning
E-Series debuted as the Econoline in 1961, designed for commercial customers. Three bodystyles were available - Pickup, Delivery Van and Station Bus. The pickup delivered up to 30 mpg and carried a three-quarter-ton payload in a big 7-foot box. The van offered 204 cubic feet of cargo space - up to 57 cubic feet more than competitors - and had double doors at the side and rear for easy loading. The Station Bus, with twice the interior room of the biggest station wagon of the day, was designed to accommodate up to eight passengers when fitted with two optional bench seats as well as the standard driver and passenger buckets.
 
A year later Club Wagon arrived, a family-friendly version of the Econoline designed for family transportation along with light towing.
 
As popular as those series became, they soon weren't enough. What started as a light commercial vehicle had been discovered by campers and other outdoor vacationers. By 1965 the Econoline van - already America's biggest-selling van - had a new teammate: Econoline SuperVan. SuperVan was a full 16 inches longer than any other van, offering room to spare for loads eight-and-a-half-feet long behind the engine compartment.
 
By 1969, the second-generation Econoline vans had hit the market, modernized with V8 engines and air conditioning and joined by the Club Wagon series, which offered a revolutionary new twin I-beam front suspension for a smooth, quiet ride. In 1971, power steering became an Econoline option, and then the model line expanded again to include the Parcel Delivery Van and a cutaway model for the rapidly growing RV market.
 
In 1975, when van popularity hit new heights, Ford introduced the third generation of Econoline. The new van featured body-on-frame construction, higher gross vehicle weight ratings, an improved interior package and a wider selection of engines. This design was offered in the same basic configuration for the next 17 years.
 
Extending its reach
Over the years, Ford kept tabs on the wants and needs of its customers. In 1976, for instance, the Econoline made a youthful statement with the Cruising Van, a factory-customized model with mod paint schemes, porthole panel windows and a carpeted interior.
 
Econoline continued to extend its reach, and its popularity grew. Third-party van conversion companies helped make Econoline a favorite among buyers looking for customized features. Other bodymakers, including ambulance companies and shuttle van manufacturers, adopted Econoline. Partly because of the van's popularity with commercial bodymakers, Ford introduced a chassis cab model in 1978.
 
Over the next few years, the improvements continued. In 1981, higher payloads appeared on most models, and halogen headlamps became standard. In 1987, an eight-passenger Club Wagon was introduced. Then in 1992, the entire line got a redesign.
 
A fourth generation - and more
The fourth generation of Econoline vans and Club Wagons were completely modernized after 17 years - redesigned aerodynamically and stylistically to meet the needs of the '90s. Airbags were added, the sheet metal was new. There was new front end styling and dramatic improvements in quietness. Popularity of the full-size vans continued to soar. In fact, MOTOR TREND magazine named the 1992 Ford Econoline Chateau Club Wagon its Truck of the Year. In 1997, the line was refreshed with overhead-cam engines, including the only V10 in the segment.
 
Taking on the new millennium
For 2001, Ford introduced the E-Traveler model, keeping up with the increasingly crowded market of SUVs and passenger vans, and debuting the shorter, snappier "E" version of the name. "E-Series" replaced "Econoline" in company literature, and Ford kept close tabs on an ever-changing market to make certain its long-standing product would thrive.
 
Then for 2008, Ford streamlined the E-Series, reintroducing the series as a strictly commercial vehicle and revamping the offerings to meet its emerging fleet customer needs. Cargo space was increased. Chassis and suspension improvements led to a more solid ride and also resulted in best-in-class capability. The front end design was inspired by Ford Super Duty to emphasize that this was a Built Ford Tough van.

 
For 2011, the E-Series' winning streak continues - it proudly carries the title of America's best-selling full-size van for 31 consecutive years. Available technologies like Ford Work Solutions, SYNC voice-activated communications and entertainment system, and a Navigation System with HD Radio? bring E-Series squarely into the future, setting the stage for both productivity and customer satisfaction.

DEARBORN, Mich., Oct. 29, 2010  Ford Motor Company is launching the most fuel-efficient full-size pickup of any manufacturer the all-new 3.7-liter V6 engine in the 2011 F-150. It is projected to deliver best-in-class 23 mpg highway, pending EPA certification.

The new 5.0-liter V8 engine is projected to deliver best-in-class 21 mpg highway, pending EPA certification.

The all-new engine lineup for the 2011 Ford F-150 is focused on delivering what matters most to truck customers best-in-class power, capability, durability and fuel economy, said Barb Samardzich, vice president of Powertrain Engineering. Each engine offers an unequaled combination of these attributes.

The new 3.7-liter V6 is projected to deliver 16 mpg city and 23 mpg highway in 4x2 configuration. The new 5.0-liter V8 is projected to deliver 15 mpg city and 21 mpg highway in 4x2 configuration. No manufacturer offers better fuel economy numbers in these respective segments.

Seventy percent of F-150 customers said better fuel economy is what they'd like improved most in their truck, said Doug Scott, Truck Group marketing manager. The 2011 Ford F-150 does exactly that with best-in-class fuel economy, best-in-class capability and power, and more powertrain choices to suit their different needs.

The new V6 and V8 make up half of an all-new powertrain lineup for the 2011 Ford F-150, part of the most extensive engine makeover in the 62-year history of F-Series. Also new for 2011 are the 6.2-liter V8 and 3.5-liter EcoBoost truck engine. The EcoBoost will be available in early 2011. Trucks with the 3.7-liter V6, 5.0-liter V8 and 6.2-liter V8 will arrive in dealer showrooms later this year.

Each engine is mated to a fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmission. Ford is the only manufacturer to equip its entire full-size pickup lineup with six-speed gearboxes as standard.

This versatile new powertrain lineup enables F-150 customers to choose the engine that best suits their needs.

Several other improvements help increase fuel economy
The extensive work to maximize the efficiency of each engine is complemented by additional improvements to the transmission and other areas of the new F-150.

The tried-and-true 6R80 six-speed automatic transmission has been upgraded to bring available customer conveniences such as SelectShift capability with progressive range select and manual mode to the F-150 for the first time.

The transmission has been optimized for each new engine. The transmission matched to the 3.7-liter engine, for example, has fewer clutch plates compared with the other F-150 engines.

A one-way clutch, which allows for smoother 1-2 and 2-1 shifts, faster downshifts and improved fuel economy, has been added. The gear ratios, span and shift schedule have been optimized for better off-the-line performance and improved fuel economy. The double-overdrive gear also provides better fuel economy.

Another fuel saver is the addition of class-exclusive electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) to the 3.7-liter V6, 5.0-liter V8 and 3.5-liter EcoBoost powertrains. The EPAS system replaces a conventional hydraulic system, which runs continuously off the engine, with a system that draws power only when needed. Ford is the first manufacturer to widely offer EPAS on full-size pickup trucks. EPAS contributes about a 4 percent fuel-economy benefit compared with conventional hydraulic systems.

Our new engine lineup allows greater flexibility for customers to select the powertrain choice that best suits their needs, said Samardzich. And each engine delivers outstanding power, capability and fuel economy.

3.7-liter four-valve Ti-VCT V6
The 3.7-liter will be the most powerful, capable and fuel-efficient base V6 of any truck in its class. Key attributes include:

• Projected best-in-class 23 mpg highway (4x2 configuration), pending final EPA certification. Also delivers 16 mpg city
• Best-in-class 302 horsepower at 6,500 rpm
• Unsurpassed 278 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm
• Best-in-class 6,100 pounds maximum trailer tow
• Ti-VCT (twin independent variable camshaft timing) creates precise, variable timing control of both the intake and exhaust camshafts to optimize power, performance and fuel economy
• E85 flex fuel capability
• Piston-cooling jets, which squirt oil on the underside of the pistons to keep the piston crowns cool under extreme operating conditions
• Forged-steel crankshaft for improved durability
• Built at Cleveland Engine Plant

5.0-liter four-valve DOHC Ti-VCT V8
The 5.0-liter V8 in the 2011 F-150 offers many class bests compared with comparable base V8s, including:

• Projected best-in-class 21 mpg highway (4x2 configuration), pending final EPA certification
• Best-in-class 360 horsepower at 5,500 rpm
• Best-in-class 380 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,250 rpm
• Best-in-class 10,000 pounds maximum trailer tow
• New strengthened block and new cylinder head optimized for performance and enhanced cooling
• Unique intake camshafts, combined with Ti-VCT, composite intake manifold and optimized compression ratio for improved low-speed torque and towing capability
• Forged-steel crank and all-new oil cooler enhance durability
• Piston-cooling jets, which squirt oil on the underside of the pistons to keep the piston crowns cool under extreme operating conditions
• E85 flex fuel capability
• Built at Essex Engine Plant; Windsor, Ontario

6.2-liter two-valve SOHC V8
The 6.2-liter V8 is a premium engine offering on the 2011 F-150. It is now standard on F-150 SVT Raptor, with expanded offering on other specialty applications. Its attributes include:

• Best-in-class 411 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 434 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm vs. all competitors
• Best-in-class 11,300 pounds maximum trailer tow vs. all competitors
• Unsurpassed EPA-certified 13 mpg city, 18 mpg highway (4x2 configuration)
• Durability of race-proven components and technology showcased in November 2008 when a 6.2-liter Raptor R not only survived the grueling Baja 1000, it earned a podium finish. The same engine then completed every mile of the 2009 Best in the Desert series
• Utilizes a large bore and shorter stroke. This approach to creating power has its roots in storied Ford racing engines. The large bore allows for larger intake and exhaust valves for improved engine airflow, and the short stroke allows higher engine speed for increased horsepower
• Because of the large bore size, two spark plugs per cylinder are used to more efficiently burn the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber, enabling better fuel economy and increased engine torque. The twin plugs also help maintain a smooth, stable idle
• Built at Romeo (Mich.) Engine Plant

3.5-liter Ti-VCT EcoBoost
A premium powertrain offering available after launch, the 3.5-liter EcoBoost has more torque than any competitors V8 with the fuel economy of a smaller-displacement engine. This EcoBoost engine will establish a new benchmark for its combination of performance capability and fuel efficiency. Its attributes include:

• 365 horsepower at 5,000 rpm on regular fuel
• Best-in-class 420 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,500 rpm on regular fuel
• Best-in-class 11,300 pounds maximum trailer tow vs. all competitors
• Best-in-class 3,060 pounds payload vs. all competitors
• Up to 90 percent of peak torque available from 1,700 rpm to 5,000 rpm
• New benchmark for combination of performance capability and fuel efficiency
• Ti-VCT creates precise, variable timing control of both the intake and exhaust camshafts to optimize power, performance and fuel economy
• Intake and exhaust camshafts optimized for improved fuel economy and performance
• Cast exhaust manifolds for heavy-duty operation and durability
• Improved manifold and cylinder heads for improved performance
• Direct-acting mechanical bucket (DAMB) valvetrain with polished buckets to reduce friction and improve fuel economy
• Built at Cleveland Engine Plant

For more information
For additional press releases, fact sheets and photos on the new F-150, please click here for the 2011 Ford F-150 media site.

DEARBORN, Mich., Aug. 25, 2010 - The 2011 Ford Fiesta is the first mini-car to earn a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) since the introduction of a new roof strength test. The award applies to vehicles built after July 2010. The Fiesta is the eighth Ford Motor Company vehicle to earn the Institute's top designation - breaking a tie with Toyota for the most "Top Safety Picks" of any automaker.

Fiesta's extensive use of high-strength steels, Trinity front crash structure, Side Protection And Cabin Enhancement (SPACE) Architecture® and advanced airbag technologies helped the car perform well in IIHS testing. Fiesta's energy-absorbing body structure is optimized for strength and stiffness and designed to absorb and redirect crash forces away from the passenger compartment. Plus, it features the most standard airbags in its segment, as well as standard electronic stability control - a must-have feature for Top Safety Pick eligibility.

"Fiesta is proof that a small car can deliver big safety, and earning a Top Safety Pick further demonstrates Ford's commitment to providing all of our customers with world-class crash protection," said Sue Cischke, Ford's group vice president of Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering. "Fiesta combines rigidity and more airbags - smartly deployed - than its competition, as well as standard stability control."

Strong and stylish
Beneath Fiesta's stylish exterior is a robust structure, crafted from high-strength steels engineered to preserve quality and enhance driver and passenger safety.

Fiesta uses significant cold- and hot-formed high-strength steel in the body structure. These components add rigidity and save weight, increasing structural efficiency while also helping Fiesta deliver class-leading fuel efficiency of 40 mpg, which is achieved with Ford's new six-speed PowerShift automatic transmission.

More than 55 percent of Fiesta's body structure uses these high-strength or ultra-high-strength steels in the floor structure, front rails, beams and in the ultra-rigid, integrated body reinforcement ring designed to help better protect occupants in side impacts.

Fiesta A- and B-pillars are fashioned from ultra-high-strength aluminized boron steel, adding robustness while allowing for slim width and rake to honor Fiesta's distinctive design. Rocker panels - with welded baffles to absorb impact - also are crafted from very high-strength, dual-phase steels, known for their energy-absorption qualities. The side roof arch employs dual-phase steel construction. The under-floor support beams - so-called sled runners - and lateral floor reinforcements also use high-strength, dual-phase steel. These light but strong metals in Fiesta's robust body shell help enhance crash protection by adding strength, rigidity and durability.

Segment-busting safety
The Fiesta body shell is well equipped with safety features to help protect its occupants in the event of a collision, including the most standard airbags in the segment.

Fiesta offers a segment-exclusive driver's knee airbag, developed to help reduce lower leg injuries in the event of a frontal collision and to work together with other safety features. The knee airbag joins a suite of Fiesta safety features including dual-stage first-row airbags, side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags. A knee airbag won't be found in Honda Fit, Nissan Versa or Toyota Yaris. Move up to Civic, Sentra and Corolla and you still won't find a driver's knee airbag.

"Smart" Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) sensors determine occupant weight and seat belt status to optimize deployment force. Smart sensors include the class-exclusive side-impact sensor that uses pressure to react up to 30 percent faster than previous sensor offerings.

Also available on the Fiesta is Ford's AdvanceTrac® with ESC (electronic stability control), which uses sensors to detect and measure yaw, or side-to-side skidding conditions, by monitoring vehicle speed, throttle position and steering wheel angle. When AdvanceTrac senses wheel slip, engine torque is reduced and braking is applied where needed to help the driver keep the car tracking on its intended path.

"Fiesta sets a new benchmark for small car safety," Cischke said. "Fiesta is a clear example that making a safe car doesn't mean making a large car or a heavy car. Fiesta has it all; safety, good design and driving character."