All eyes will be firmly focused on the Ford stand at next month’s Frankfurt Motor Show when the manufacturer of the UK’s best-loved small car takes the wraps off its vision for the future, - the Ford Verve Concept.
Ford Verve Concept hints at the new design direction for future compact cars and the company plans to closely gauge public reaction while their designers work behind the scenes creating Ford's next supermini generation.
The latest in a series of striking show stoppers, Ford Verve Concept follows in the footsteps of the Iosis and Iosis X, whose kinetic design philosophy inspired production models like the critically acclaimed new Mondeo and S-MAX.
Martin Smith, Executive Director of Design for Ford of Europe, explained: “Bold, even radical, Ford Verve Concept demonstrates the potential of Ford’s kinetic design philosophy to visualise a small car that is a chic and modern, and one that makes an individual statement for a sophisticated, fashion-aware generation.”
Bold and sporty, the front of the supermini is dominated by a large, inverted trapezoidal lower grille with the familiar Ford oval centred in the compact upper opening.
Particularly eye-catching in deep magenta with a unique tinted clear coat finish, Ford Verve Concept’s sleek lines, 18-inch alloys, panoramic glass roof and
B-pillarless structure give it an elegant, coupe-like look.
The visual splendour continues inside with a fresh and innovative approach to interior design that's been inspired by the latest mobile phones. Sensuous curves combine with clever technology to create a stylish but user-friendly environment.
Ford's Convers+ system, which allows quick and easy access to all driver-operated functions, is central to the ergonomically excellent design. A large colour screen displays all essential information while every surrounding button and switch has been crafted with the kind of minute attention typically associated with larger, upmarket vehicles.
“A new generation of buyers raised with mobile electronic devices would feel right at home in this new automotive interior, one that exceeds the standards typical in the small-car segment,” said Niko Vidakovic, Chief Interior Designer, Ford of Europe.
Taking its lead from the success of Ford's new S-MAX and latest Mondeo, the Verve Concept symbolises Ford's ambition to be a leader in small vehicle design by creating individual cars for individual customers.
With elements of the Ford Verve Concept almost certain to appear in future production models, small car buyers have some exciting times ahead.
* New Ford ECOnetic range will join Ford Flexifuel range to increase affordable low CO 2 choices for customers
Ford of Europe will offer its customers ultra-low CO 2 alternatives for selected car lines with the launch of a new range of Ford ECOnetic models at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show.
These cars will use a combination of the latest common-rail diesel powertrains together with other carefully-selected features engineered to reduce CO 2 emissions to the absolute minimum. The first to be launched by the end of 2007 will be the Ford Focus ECOnetic, which promises to deliver best-in-class CO 2 emissions for conventional powertrain technology at just 115g/km.
"Although all of our current European models are already highly competitive in terms of CO 2 , we do know that more and more car buyers seek the lowest possible emissions as a key 'why-buy?', and that they have an increasing range of such vehicles to choose from in the market," said John Fleming, Ford of Europe President and CEO.
"By launching specific models, with dedicated Ford ECOnetic badging, which achieve ultra-low CO 2 results, we will give a clear alternative to those customers who prioritise low emissions performance in their purchasing decision.
"We chose the Ford ECOnetic name because it links ecologically friendly technology to our kinetic design 'energy in motion' philosophy for both driving quality and emotional styling," Fleming added. "Above all, it assures our customers that these models will not sacrifice any of the driving dynamic qualities they have come to expect from Ford, even though ultra-low emissions have been prioritised."
Ford Focus ECOnetic: Class Leading Emissions
Further details of the Ford ECOnetic range will be revealed in September at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, but the first vehicle to benefit will be the company's most popular model – the Ford Focus.
The Ford Focus ECOnetic will be available early in 2008, and will demonstrate that very favourable fuel consumption levels and significantly reduced CO 2 emissions can both be achieved using conventional drive technology, coupled with a clever combination of individual, fuel-saving measures.
The new Ford Focus ECOnetic, powered by the highly efficient 109PS, 1.6-litre Duratorq TDCi engine with standard Diesel Particulate Filter, delivers an average fuel consumption of just 4.3 l/100km, which corresponds to an average CO 2 emission of only 115g/km.
"The challenge for the engineering team was to deliver the maximum reduction in CO 2 using available and affordable techologies," said Gunnar Herrmann, Ford's Vehicle Line Director for medium cars. "The result of this detailed work is both a class-leading result for a vehicle with state-of-the-art conventional power train technology, and some useful learnings that we can also apply to all diesel models in the Focus range over time."
The starting point for achieving these results was to reduce drive resistances and improve aerodynamics. By lowering the vehicle, adding an aerodynamics kit and using 195/65R15 tyres a very good coefficient of drag (cd) of 0.31 is achieved.
A further measure to reduce driving resistance also being used for the first time in the Ford Focus ECOnetic is the introduction of new low-viscosity transmission oil developed by Ford's fuel partner BP. Under testing, the efficiency benefits were found to be so significant that this new BP transmission oil is to be introduced across other Ford products in the C and CD segments.
Customer Choice
In adding the new Ford ECOnetic diesel derivatives to its extensive product line-up, the company will offer customers clear and affordable choices for environmentally friendly cars.
Ford of Europe is a leader in Flexifuel technology, which uses re-generative energy sources produced from renewable biomass. The Ford Focus and the Ford C-MAX are already available as Flexifuel models which can be fuelled with bio-ethanol E85 (a blend of 85% bio-ethanol and 15% petrol), or on petrol, or on any mixture of both fuels in one tank, as an alternative to conventional petrol technology only.
The combined use of bio-ethanol as a fuel and Ford's Flexifuel technology can reduce total life cycle CO 2 (g reenhouse) emissions by between 30 and 80 per cent, without compromise to performance and driving quality. From early 2008, Flexifuel versions of the new Mondeo, the Ford Galaxy and the Ford S-MAX will also be on sale, giving Ford one of the broadest ranges of Flexifuel vehicles available in Europe.
In some European markets, Ford also offers selected models converted to run on LPG (Liquified Petroleum Gas) and CNG (Compressed Natural Gas). These models are available in countries like Germany and Austria, where the infrastructure is available to support customers who choose this option.
"Whichever model our customers choose – Ford ECOnetic, Flexifuel, LPG or CNG – they can be assured of affordable, practical, low-CO 2 technologies that will also retain our trademark qualities of excellent driving dynamics and dependability throughout the lifetime of the vehicle," Fleming said.
"There is no single catch-all solution on the horizon to make mobility more sustainable, but Ford is committed to continue working on a portfolio of environmentally advanced vehicles and technologies to maintain momentum. The Ford ECOnetic range takes us another step along this journey, and will make our portfolio even broader," he added.
Source: Ford Motor Company
* Manufacturing cost savings are estimated at more than $7 per vehicle vs. traditional paint methods.
* Long-term paint durability will be confirmed in 200 Ford-built U-Haul rental vehicles.
Traverse City, Mich., Aug. 6, 2007 – Ford Motor Company and U-Haul this week are putting on the road the industry’s first fleet of vehicles painted with Ford’s environmentally responsible new technology, which reduces greenhouse gases by 15 percent and cuts Ford’s production costs.
Some 200 Ford E-Series trucks painted with this new technology have been delivered to U-Haul facilities around the country. U-Haul will begin renting the units, tagged with eco-friendly decals, to customers this week.
The technology combines an advanced chemical formulation of high-solids, solvent-borne paint with an innovative three-wet application process that requires a smaller, less expensive and cleaner paint shop than traditional automotive paint facilities.
Joe Hinrichs, vice president, North America Manufacturing, Ford Motor Company, said Ford will monitor the U-Haul fleet over the next year to gather important durability data that will help the company develop long-term rollout plans for its industry-first technology.
“This marks a big win for our customers, the environment and the business,” Hinrichs said at the annual Center for Automotive Research Management Conference. “We have high hopes for this technology based on our laboratory testing. Once we understand how it performs in the real world, we’ll determine how best to apply it to other manufacturing facilities.”
In addition to reduced CO2 emissions, the new technology reduces VOC emissions (volatile organic compounds) by about 10 percent. The company estimates it can save approximately $7 per vehicle by cutting the time it takes to paint a vehicle by almost 20 percent as well as reducing the size of the traditional paint shop by nearly 15 percent.
“Painting vehicles has traditionally been one of the auto industry’s biggest environmental challenges,” said Mary Ellen Rosenberger, paint manager of Ohio Assembly Plant where the new technology was launched. “Ford has found the solution. It’s environmentally sound. It’s cost-efficient. And it produces beautifully painted vehicles with long-term durability.”
Ford’s new high-solids, solvent-borne paint formulation produces fewer VOC and CO2 emissions than do water-borne and current solvent-borne paints. Because the new formulation contains more color pigment, it requires less paint to cover a vehicle than water-based paint. Furthermore, the new technology allows for three coats of wet paint to be applied to the vehicle one on top of the other, without drying between coats. This eliminates the prime-coat application and its related processes, which means a smaller, more efficient paint shop.
Furthermore, there’s no need for an air-conditioning process or an additional low-temperature oven, which are required in water-borne paint shops to evaporate the water from the paint.
The paint formulation contains new polymers and other additives that prevent running and sagging during the three-wet application process. And Ford’s laboratory tests show the high-solids, solvent-borne paint provides better long-term resistance to chips and scratches than does water-borne paint.
Said Dean Cerimeli, U-Haul’s director of Truck and Trailer Product: “When it comes to the environment and sustainability, we are happy to partner with Ford in this important field test. We believe this is the most environmentally responsible way to paint vehicles. And we applaud Ford for leading the industry.”
In June, Ford won the “Best Technical Prize” for its new paint technology at SURCAR: The International Conference on Automobile Body Finishing in Cannes, France.
About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With about 260,000 employees and about 100 plants worldwide, the company’s core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company.
For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.fordvehicles.com
Source: Ford Motor Company
The Edge delivers spirited performance, fuel efficiency and a smooth, quiet ride from its class-exclusive 265-horsepower V-6 engine and 6-speed automatic transmission. Edge also delivers on safety, with a host of standard safety features including Ford’s exclusive AdvanceTrac with RSC. Edge boasts a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and
achieved front and side driver five-star crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Edge is available in SE, SEL and Limited trims. All Edges are manufactured at Ford’s Oakville Assembly Complex in Ontario, Canada.
New-for-2008 Features Set Edge Apart from the Competition
The 2008 Edge lives up to Ford Motor Company’s commitment to deliver more vehicles that customers want to buy with features such as:
* Ford Sync – an industry-exclusive, voice-activated, hands-free, in-car communications and entertainment system. The available system, developed in collaboration with Microsoft, fully integrates mobile phones and media players into the vehicle using Bluetooth technology and USB connectivity.
* Voice-activated navigation system. The available voice-activated DVD-based navigation system features a 6.5-inch touch screen designed for improved clarity. It incorporates text-to-speech technology that reads and communicates directions and street names in English, Spanish and French.
* Power liftgate. This available new feature provides easy access to the rear cargo area and can be opened with the key fob or with a switch mounted on the dash. A new design for the liftgate handle also allows for easier access to the vehicle’s rear cargo area.
Edge offers even more choices for 2008 with the addition of the Limited Series, a new Interior Appearance Package that includes leather-trimmed seats with premium red seating surfaces and contrast stitching, a new 18-inch wheel option and new class-exclusive 20-inch wheels. Four new colors are available for 2008: Vapor Silver Clearcoat Metallic, Light Ice Blue Clearcoat Metallic, Dark Ink Blue Clearcoat Metallic and White Sand Tri-Coat.
For added convenience, Edge now comes with a one-touch up-and-down driver window and an available Homelink universal garage door opener.
Additional available infotainment features include factory-installed SIRIUS® Satellite Radio and a DVD entertainment system with a drop-down 8-inch screen and two pairs of wireless headphones.
Class-Exclusive Panoramic Vista Roof™
Edge’s available panoramic Vista Roof™ opens up a whole world of possibilities. The large glass moon roof provides a grand view of the sky and a sense of freedom that accentuates Edge’s sporting nature.
The roof features a large 27.3-inch by 29.4-inch forward panel that offers tilt and slide opening, and a 15.75-inch by 31.3-inch fixed rear glass panel. The oversized front panel provides open-air touring. Close the forward roof and the enormous skylights allow natural light to flood the cabin while protecting the cabin from the elements. Twin power-operated cloth shades can be closed simultaneously to block 100 percent of ultra-violet rays.
Safety Begins with Accidents Avoided
Edge customers will find peace of mind in Ford’s comprehensive approach to safety, including standard active safety technology and comprehensive passive safety features.
Ford’s AdvanceTrac® with RSC®, standard on Edge, is the industry’s only electronic stability control system that uses two gyroscopic sensors to monitor both yaw and roll motions. Monitoring both motions allows for yaw-control enhancements, providing class-leading side-slip and roll stability control.
Edge offers several layers of side-impact protection, including solid unibody construction with cross-member ladder frame, a reinforced greenhouse and energy-absorbing side door trim.
Other standard safety features include:
* Ford’s exclusive Safety Canopy™ side curtain air bags. Designed for both rows of seats, this feature utilizes roll-fold technology to efficiently deploy the air bag when an occupant’s head is resting against the side glass. In the event of a crash, the roll-fold bag will deploy between the occupant’s head and the side of the vehicle.
* Ford’s Personal Safety System®. This suite of safety features includes dual-stage driver and front passenger air bags, thorax side air bags for front Seat occupants, safety belt pretensioners, Seat weight sensing system for the passenger Seat and crash severity sensing.
* Ford’s BeltMinder™ safety belt reminder for driver and front passenger. Edge also comes equipped with such standard features as child safety locks on the rear doors, the LATCH child safety restraint system and Ford’s tire pressure monitoring system.
Engaging Driving Dynamics Set Edge Apart
Edge’s modern car-based foundation facilitates its excellent driving character. The front suspension features MacPherson struts and an isolated subframe, firmly attached in six locations. To further smooth out the ride, hydro-bushings are used.
The four-link independent rear suspension uses stamped steel control blades for precise suspension tuning. The rear dampers are mounted as far outboard as possible in the vehicle and behind the wheel center to improve ride and handling. Edge comes standard with four-wheel-disc anti-lock brakes.
Edge’s 3.5-liter V-6 engine features a strong, lightweight, die-cast aluminum block and lightweight 4-valve-per-cylinder heads for smooth operation at high rpm. A 10.3:1 compression ratio and close-coupled catalysts will help it meet stringent ultra-low emission vehicle (ULEV) II regulations.
The 6-speed automatic transmission uses a wide 6.04:1 gear ratio to deliver good fuel economy and performance. Short first and second gears provide impressive launch and acceleration, while the tall overdrive gears deliver 7 percent better fuel economy than a 4-speed automatic.
Edge’s available intelligent all-wheel-drive (AWD) system was tuned with an emphasis on performance while offering confident all-weather driving. By constantly monitoring and predicting traction, the system delivers torque to all four wheels, even before the wheels begin to slip. An active on-demand coupler can deliver the precise amount of torque to the rear wheels. Paired with available AdvanceTrac® traction control, intelligent AWD can transfer torque front to rear and side to side.
Impressive Interior Quietness
Edge’s well-rounded, modern performance extends to impressive refinement, enhancing the driving experience. In fact, testing has proven that the Edge’s interior is quieter than the Lexus RX350.
Engineers spent hundreds of hours fine-tuning Edge’s interior ambiance when the vehicle launched. For example, the side mirrors were specifically designed to reduce wind noise. Even the radio antenna was scrutinized. By modifying the pitch and height of the spiral by tenths of a millimeter, wind noise was reduced by as much as 2 decibels.
Modern Design with a Dramatic Edge
The Edge’s bold American design is defined by its distinctive three-bar chromed grille. An aggressively raked windshield and fast-sloping back window with high-mounted rear spoiler accentuate the feeling of motion. Quad-beam headlamps and a “powerdome” hood accentuate the purposeful front-end look.
The wheels are pushed to the corners, giving Edge its powerful, yet graceful stance. The raised beltline emphasizes strong, sculpted shoulders formed around sharp wheel arches. Matte black lower front and rear fascias and side rocker panels emphasize Edge’s sporty character.
Edge’s modern design flows into the interior, evident in the instrument panel and distinctive center stack. The center stack design incorporates two, 9-inch by 2-inch vertical vents that bracket the audio and climate-control switches. Available all-leather seating surfaces feature contrast stitching inspired by the fashion industry.
Adaptable, Flexible Design
Edge is designed to fit the customer’s need for style as well as cargo space and adaptability. The large center console uses a removable divider and tray to organize the space both vertically and horizontally for secure storage of everything from a laptop computer and handbag to coins and MP3 players.
The Edge has four power points, three within the driver’s reach, along with a MP3 audio jack. Small slots molded into the side of the console keep phone and MP3 cords neat and organized. The console lid has a ticket clip, two penholders and a tissue holder.
Edge comfortably seats five, offering available six-way power, heated, adjustable front seats and best-in-class adult headroom and legroom for the second row. The reclining 60/40-split second-row Seat folds to provide a level load floor for carrying equipment in the large cargo area. Edge can transport items as long as 8 feet with the available fold-flat front passenger seat. Each rear Seat can be folded manually using an industry-first single-hand release or automatically with an available EasyFold™ electro-mechanical remote release accessible from the rear cargo area.
Major Features and Options
Standard features include: Four-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS); 265 horsepower V-6 engine; 6-speed automatic transmission; Air conditioning; Power side mirrors; Power windows, locks and mirrors; One touch up/down driver window; Dual-speed rear wiper; Remote keyless entry; 17-inch painted aluminum wheels; Four 12V power points (IP, front console, 2nd row and cargo area); Audio/MP3 input jack; Cargo area light; Floor mats; Privacy glass; Heated backlight; One-touch integrated start; Overhead console; Manual tilt and telescope steering wheel; Adjustable head restraints; Advance Trac® w RSC®; Belt-Minder®; Child safety locks; Adjustable safety belts; LATCH; Personal Safety System®; SecuriLock® passive anti-theft system; Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
SEL adds: Chrome exhaust tips; Fog lamps; Illuminated door entry keypad; AM/FM stereo/clock/CDx6/MP3 with four speakers; Automatic headlamps with wiper activation; Dual illuminated visor mirrors; Auto-dimming rearview mirror; Message center with trip computer and compass; Leather-wrapped shift knob; Leather-wrapped steering wheel with speed and audio controls; Aluminum instrument panel finish; Unique cloth seats with six-way power driver manual driver lumbar and driver/passenger recline; Reverse Sensing System.
Limited adds: Audiophile sound system with nine speakers and AM/FM stereo/clock/six-disc CD/MP3; Dual electronic climate control; Fold-flat six-way power passenger seat; Unique brushed aluminum center stack; EasyFold™ second-row seats; Heated and memory seats and exterior mirrors; Leather-trimmed seats; Chrome beltline.
Optional features include: All-wheel drive; Panoramic Vista Roof™; Power liftgate; Reverse Sensing System; Roof rack with side rails; Rear cargo management system; Ford Sync hands-free communications and entertainment system; Voice-activated navigation system; 18-inch painted aluminum wheels; 18-inch chrome clad wheels; 20-inch chrome clad wheels; Homelink universal garage door opener.
Class II Trailer Tow/Prep Package includes: Class II receiver hitch; Engine oil cooler; Larger radiator; Upgraded cooling fans; Upgraded battery; Wiring harness with four-pin connector.
Interior Appearance Package includes: Premium red-leather Seat inserts; Contrast red stitching on seats, steering wheel and shift knob.
Milestones
2006 Edge goes on sale as a 2007 model
2007 Edge earns IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2007
2007 Edge recognized as “2007 Urban Truck of the Year”
2007 Edge’s 3.5-liter V-6 named one of Ward’s 10 Best Engines for 2007
2007 Ford Edge receives a Vehicle Satisfaction Award from AutoPacific, Inc., tying for the top spot among premium mid-size crossovers
The all-new interior resets the bar for small utility vehicles with more upscale appointments, new innovative storage options and improved comfort and quietness. Meanwhile, chassis refinements
deliver impressive fuel economy and agile driving dynamics that belie the Escape’s rugged exterior.
The Ford Escape helped ignite consumer demand for more fuel-efficient small-utility vehicles, which almost doubled the small-utility market from 800,000 units in 2000 to an estimated 1.5 million in 2006.
The combination of traditional SUV capability and crossover construction made the original Escape an instant success. More than one million Escapes have been sold since its introduction as a 2001 model – more than any other small utility vehicle or crossover of any size. Six years later, Escape remains among the sales leaders of the small-utility segment, a remarkable feat considering the increased segment volume.
Bold, American design ties to Ford Tough Truck heritage
The 2008 Ford Escape features an all-new exterior that has been sculpted into a bolder, tougher look that strengthens the family resemblance to Explorer and Expedition. New exterior design details include:
* A high beltline that gives a strong, modern proportion of sheetmetal to glass.
* Blacked-out B-pillars, integrated running boards, clean side surfaces and available 17-inch wheels all further emphasize the high beltline.
* A raised hood design hood features a unique “reverse crease” that draws the eye to the detailed surface.
* New front fascia has headlamps that sweep up toward the front corners of the vehicle to short side marker lamps.
* New headlights bracket a dramatic front fascia and new grille, which is available in three variations designed for specific trim levels.
* New taillamps feature a clear band that wraps around the edge of the vehicle, a design touch that visually connects the profile to the rear.
* A step pad on the rear bumper, new for 2008, gives owners a secure place to stand when loading bikes, boats and gear on top of the vehicle.
Industry-first 100 Percent Recycled Seating Surfaces
The 2008 Ford Escape is believed to be the first U.S. automotive application of 100 percent recycled fabric seating surfaces. The new fabric, supplied by Interface Fabrics, Inc., is produced from 100 percent post-industrial waste – defined as anything intended for retail use that never makes it to the consumer. This can be anything from plastic intended for pop bottles to un-dyed polyester fibers.
This plastic and polyester is processed, spun into yarn, dyed and woven into Seat fabric. Recycling waste otherwise intended for landfills has obvious environmental benefits. Interface Fabrics estimates that Ford’s use of post-industrial recycled materials, rather than virgin fibers, could conserve an estimated 600,000 gallons of water, 1.8 million pounds of carbon dioxide equivalents and more than 7 million kilowatt hours of electricity.
Upscale Interior Appointments, Flexible Storage Space
In addition to the industry’s first recycled seating surfaces, the 2008 Ford Escape features a host of interior innovations that will eventually cascade to other Ford vehicles.
The Escape features Ford’s first use of a “top of dash” display positioned at eye level on the dashboard, which shows ambient temperature, radio functions and climate-control readouts. This simple, efficient design puts much of the vehicle’s information in one place at the top of the dashboard, making it easier to reference when driving.
Also improving ease-of-use is the clean, uncluttered center console. Rather than the traditional “brick” design for the radio and heating/air conditioning controls, Escape features dials and buttons that “poke-through” the center console. The instrument panel houses audio and climate controls, a standard MP3/iPod jack, and controls for available heated seats and in-dash navigation system.
Escape also features the first use of Ford’s new, signature Ice Blue interior lighting. The cool blue lighting replaces the traditional green on the instrument cluster, the center console, the redundant controls on the steering wheel and the door lock and window switches. Ice Blue presents a cool, crisp, easy-on-the-eyes light for night driving and enhances the overall feel of the interior.
A host of other innovative features elevate the sophistication inside Escape.
* A new floor-mounted shifter, for example, allowed engineers to remove the emergency brake handle from the center console, freeing up room between the seats. The emergency brake is now engaged with a floor-mounted pedal and released with a handle on the dashboard.
* Thoughtfully sculpted door panels create more elbowroom; audio speakers sit higher in the front doors for better sound clarity; and the rear doors have new storage bins.
Escape’s center console boasts best-in-class storage volume with space for a laptop computer. Two innovative storage bins fit snugly inside the center console, or can be removed and hung on dovetail mounting points on the front passenger side and rear of the console for additional storage.
Electric Power Assist Steering Highlights Improved Ride and Handling
The 2008 Ford Escape is one of the first Ford Motor Company vehicles to use speed-sensitive Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS), a sophisticated system that helps correct for road irregularities and improves overall steering feel.
Conventional power steering systems use an engine-driven hydraulic gear, which saps power and efficiency from the engine. The 2008 Escape’s new EPAS system uses an electric motor rather than the engine’s accessory drive. This new system eliminates the hydraulic noises typical of conventional hydraulic power-assisted steering systems and improves fuel economy as well. Thanks in part to the new EPAS system, gas Escape models achieve up to an 8 percent improvement in fuel economy over the previous model.
Because there are no hydraulic lines or fluid, maintenance costs over the life of the vehicle are reduced, as well.
For 2008, Escape’s car-like driving dynamics are further improved by reducing rear spring rates and increasing the front stabilizer bar from 20 to 21 mm. Models with 17-inch wheels get unique rear dampers and a 22 mm front stabilizer bar.
Gasoline-powered Escapes come with an all-new 10-inch front disc/rear drum braking system vthat is more durable, quieter and emits less dust. The 2008 Escape Hybrid continues with regenerative four-wheel disc brakes.
Focusing on NVH refinements delivers a quiet, car-like ride
Engineers made a host of changes to the 2008 Escape to reduce noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels inside the vehicle. For example, new recessed channels in the vehicle’s roof panel are designed to improve air flow over the top of the vehicle.
To achieve lower NVH levels, a new acoustic laminate is sandwiched between two glass panels in the windshield. An acoustic headliner and a new interior carpet with a 50 percent increase in thickness over half the area and a 25 percent increase in volume does a much better job of isolating noise.
The 2008 Escape features a long list of additional NVH enhancements, including:
* Increased side glass thickness from 3.8 to 4.7 mm helps prevent outside noise from entering the passenger cabin.
* The transversely mounted V-6 engine’s alternator is relocated from the right side to the left side of the engine, moving it farther away from the passenger compartment.
* A new, quieter cooling fan reduces idle noise.
* All-wheel-drive models have a new rear differential that is quieter and smoother operating.
* New windshield molding and low profile wipers help improve air flow around the vehicle, reducing wind noise.
* Larger outside mirrors are carefully designed to minimize wind noise.
* Additional sound package material has been added throughout the vehicle to reduce interior noise.
Compared with the previous model, the 2008 Escape is 12 percent quieter on the highway and 20 percent quieter in high velocity cross winds.
Powertrain and chassis refinements reinforce Escape’s car-like ride
Escape’s unibody construction and four-wheel independent suspension contribute to its car-like ride and handling. This responsive architecture provides precise steering and handling by giving each wheel the ability to react separately to road imperfections, while the lower stance makes ingress and egress easier.
Escape comes standard with front-wheel drive. Escape’s available Intelligent all-wheel-drive (AWD) system was tuned with an emphasis toward driving performance while offering confident all-weather driving. Using a preemptive slip strategy, the system continuously monitors vehicle speed, throttle input and steering angle to seamlessly deliver torque to the appropriate wheel even before wheel slippage occurs. The system also helps eliminate torque steer and helps balance the vehicle when cornering. Intelligent AWD uses an active on-demand coupler to allocate a precise amount of torque from front to rear or side to side, with up to 100 percent of the torque going to either axle.
The 2008 Escape’s standard 2.3-liter, 16-valve Duratec 23 I-4 produces 153 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 152 pound-feet of torque at 4,250 rpm and comes with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. An available 3.0-liter, 24-valve V-6 Duratec 30 engine makes 200 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 193 pound-feet of torque at 4,850 rpm mated to a 4-speed automatic.
Escape bolsters its safety leadership with a host of standard safety features
Under its skin, Escape has one of the most advanced safety packages in the small SUV segment. The 2008 Escape has an entirely revised restraint system that consists of new air bags, safety belts, steering column and a new steering wheel. Standard safety content includes:
* AdvanceTrac® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control). This Ford-exclusive system can predict a vehicle’s path, using a sensor to measure oversteer and yaw by monitoring the vehicle’s speed, throttle position and steering wheel angle. When the system senses wheel slip or the loss of traction, it applies braking where needed to keep the vehicle safely on its intended path.
* Ford’s Safety Canopy™ side air curtains deploy in certain side-impact collisions, or in the event of an impending rollover, helping to protect front- and second-row outboard occupants. The curtains remain inflated for several seconds after deployment to enhance protection during an extended crash event. The system features “roll-fold” technology that’s designed to slide the air bag between the glass and occupants as it inflates if occupants are improperly seated or resting their heads against a window.
* Seat-mounted side air bags deploy out of the upper portion of the front seats to protect the driver and front Seat passenger’s upper and lower torso.
* Escape uses occupant friendly door trims with softened armrests, side impact foam bolsters and intrusion door beams to distribute the loading during an impact to the hinge and B pillars.
Escape features standard ABS that helps the driver maintain control during an emergency stop even on slippery road conditions.
Key Features and Options:
Standard features include: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS); Power front disc brakes; Power rack-and-pinion steering; Rear window defroster; Power adjustable side view mirrors; Air conditioning; Auxiliary input jack; Center dome lamp with map light; Day/Night rearview mirror; Power door locks; Two power points; Rear cargo light; 60/40-split fold rear seat; Tilt steering wheel; AdvanceTrac® with RSC®; Battery saver; Belt-Minder®; Child safety locks (rear doors); LATCH system; Personal Safety System®; Remote keyless entry; SecuriLock®/Passive anti-theft system; Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
Available options include: All-wheel drive; 17-inch chrome clad wheels; Audiophile, 320-watt, six-disc, in-dash changer, seven speakers, subwoofer; DVD-based navigation system; SIRIUS® Satellite Radio; Front and rear leather-trimmed six-way power seats; Leather-wrapped steering wheel; Driver and front passenger heated seats; 110V power point; Black roof rack without cross bars; Floor mats; Fog lamps; Full-size spare wheel and tire; Integrated side step bars; Power moonroof; Cargo area cover; Lockable hidden wet trunk; Roofrack with crossbars; Dual illuminated visors; Compass, Electrochromatic mirror; Keyless entry keypad; Message center; Outside air temperature reading; Overhead console; Reverse Sensing System.
Ford Escape Milestones
2000 Based on a brand-new platform developed in association with Mazda, the Escape makes its public debut at the North American International Auto Show
2001 Escape sets an all-time calendar year SUV sales record with 121,184 units sold during the year
2003 The 500,000th Escape is sold
2003 Escape is again the best-selling small SUV
2004 Escape is redesigned for the 2005 model year
2004 Escape Hybrid, the world’s first hybrid-electric SUV, goes on sale
2004 Escape retains best-seller status
2005 Redesigned 2005 model gets two improved engine options: a new Duratec 23 4-cylinder and an improved Duratec 30 V-6
2007 Escape is redesigned for the 2008 model year
Explorer Sport Trac is available in two series, XLT and Limited. Sport Trac is produced at the Louisville Assembly Plant in Louisville, Ky.
Tough Truck Inspired Design and Equipment
Sport Trac offers an overt nod to its inspiration with a tough truck exterior drawn from the design of the Ford Explorer and Ford F-150. Specific elements of the tough exterior are:
- The standard chrome-finished grille for a bold front end.
- A powerdome aluminum hood for a stronger appearance.
- Pronounced wheel arches, helping to provide a rugged stance.
- The C-pillar arch serves as visual distinction between people space and cargo room.
- A hardy 4.5-foot cargo box lined with corrosion-proof sheet molded composite (SMC) material and lined with dent-proof and scratch-resistant material for protection from hard use.
- Three integrated cargo bins are recessed into the bed of the truck for versatile, convenient storage.
- The cargo cage bed extender and Tonneau cover, which remain highly popular with customers.
A safe, comfortable interior fulfills the goal to create a passenger-friendly and truly capable truck/SUV hybrid. The ‘sport’ interior includes:
- Sport-designed Seat styles and Tuflor? rubber floor coverings for tough utility and easy maintenance.
- A class-exclusive heated windshield adds convenience in cold weather conditions.
- Five-passenger seating benefits from significant engineering, resulting in a quieter, more comfortable cabin.
- The standard audio system features a CD player with MP3 compatibility, and can be upgraded to the available six-disc, in-dash CD player with powered subwoofer.
- Integrated SIRIUS Satellite Radio also is available.
Capable Power and Performance
The Explorer Sport Trac is outfitted standard with the 4.0-liter V-6 engine and 5-speed automatic transmission. The available, class-exclusive, 4.6-liter V-8 engine with 6-speed automatic transmission provides a power boost attractive to many customers.
Key considerations for Sport Trac’s powertrain options are:
- The 4.0-liter V-6 is rated at 210 horsepower at 5,100 rpm and 254 pound-feet of torque at 3,700 rpm.
- The 4.0-liter, equipped with a standard 5-speed automatic, delivers a maximum 5,310 pounds of towing capacity and 1,450 pounds of payload.
- The V-6 meets federal Tier II, Bin 4 tailpipe emissions.
- The 4.6-liter, 3-valve V-8 delivers 292 horsepower – the most horsepower in its class.
- The available 4.6-liter V-8 and 6-speed transmission deliver a maximum 6,800 pounds of towing capacity and 1,390 pounds of payload.
- The V-8 meets federal Tier II Bin 5 standards, which is compliant with California’s Low Emissions Vehicle II (LEV II) standards.
Either engine can be equipped with the Sport Trac’s advanced Control Trac® four-wheel-drive system. Unlike less sophisticated systems, Control Trac® automatically transfers torque to the front wheels as needed to maintain maximum traction at all times. This increases safety and security without compromising fuel economy or NVH. In addition, the Control Trac® system features a torque-multiplying gear set (4x4 Low) in the transfer case for off-road applications that require extra power including deep sand, steep grades and towing a boat trailer out of water.
The Sport Trac’s front suspension is a short- and long-arm design with coil-over shocks. The rear suspension is independent with a patent-pending, trailing blade design.
Sizable four-wheel disc brakes are standard, as is the four-wheel, four-channel anti-lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution. The package creates a balanced chassis with ride and handling that is unrivaled in its segment.
Standard Safety
Of particular interest for 2008 is the standardization of the Safety Canopy? side curtain air bags in the Explorer Sport Trac. The Safety Canopy? side curtain air bags join a host of already standard safety equipment, such as:
- AdvanceTrac? with industry-exclusive RSC® (Roll Stability Control)
- Advanced restraints module and dual front-crash sensors
- Five-level front-passenger sensing system
- Driver-seat position sensor
- Dual-stage front air bags
- Adaptive load-limiting safety-belt retractors
- Adaptive front-passenger-seat air-bag tether
- Adaptive air bag venting
- Adaptive-stroking steering column.
Key features and options:
Standard features include: Advance Trac® with RSC®; 4-wheel-disc brakes with ABS; Enhanced Interactive Vehicle Dynamics (IVD); 16-inch painted, cast-aluminum wheels; Cargo bed storage system; Fog lamps; Privacy glass; Power rear sliding window; Power one touch up/down driver window (late availability); Air conditioning; AM/FM single CD/MP3 player with audio input jack; Overhead console; Heavy duty floor mats; Illuminated glove box; Leather wrapped steering wheel; Two power points inside, one in the cargo bed; Leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel; Belt-Minder®; LATCH; Remote keyless entry; SecuriLock® passive anti-theft system; Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Optional features include: 17-inch cast-aluminum wheels; 18-inch machined-aluminum wheels; 18-inch chrome-clad wheels; Control Trac® 4WD; Audiophile AM/FM in-dash, six-CD/MP3 player with subwoofer and audio input jack; Voice-activated navigation system; Rear-seat DVD system; Leather-trimmed, two-tone front sport buckets with two-way adjustable headrests; Ten-way power driver and four-way manual passenger seats with recline and manual lumbar; Rear 60/40 split bench with two-way head restraints, integrated Seat restraints for middle occupant; Power Code remote start; Premium carpeted floor mats; Adjustable pedals; Cargo cage and bed extender; Cross bars for roof rails; Heated windshield; Power moonroof; Reverse Sensing System; Daytime running lights.
Milestones
- 2000 Explorer Sport Trac introduced as a 2001 model, began the sport utility truck trend
- 2001 Awarded “Best of the Best” by Field and Stream magazine
- 2002 Awarded title “Most Appealing Compact Pickup Truck” by J.D. Power and Associates
- 2006 2007 Sport Trac awarded “Automotive Excellence: Versatility” by Popular Mechanics magazine
- 2006 Awarded “Best of the Best” by Field and Stream Magazine for 2007 model
- 2007 Sport Trac rated top performer among compact pickups and receives Vehicle Satisfaction Award from AutoPacific, Inc.
Inline 6 Cylinder Engines could soon be a thing of a past if Ford's decision to cut them by 2010 is any indication.
Citing economical and environmental issues, Ford has decided to invest heavily into the new Duratec V6 engines. According to Ford, the main concern behind the decision is the added pressure to produce a more environmentally friendly engine and due to the added increases of petrol prices.
As a result of this, Ford Australia has cut 600 jobs at their Geelong engine plant.
Ford Announces New Engine Direction
Ford Australia today announced a key step in a new product manufacturing strategy that will allow the company to achieve production efficiencies and access global economies of scale.
From 2010 Ford Australia will import a global new Duratec V6 engine, including high performance derivatives, for use in the company's locally made Falcon, Falcon Ute and Territory model lines. The improved economies of scale resulting from the globally-sourced engine will offer increased flexibility to potentially incorporate future alternative fuel strategies, particularly diesel technology.
As a result, the company will discontinue its Australian I6 engine operations in Geelong in 2010. Redeployment opportunities will be maximised wherever possible and the company will work closely with its employees and unions to minimise the impact on the 600 people affected by the decision across engine operations. The company's remaining 1400 employees in Geelong and 3000 in Campbellfield will not be directly impacted by the decision.
Construction of the company's new Research & Development Centre, announced in 2006 as part of Ford's $1.8 billion Australian investment program, will continue and is due for completion later this year. Significant investment programs in new emissions laboratories and wind tunnel technology at Ford's test facilities at Lara will also continue, along with usual operations at the company's stamping plant and Ford Discovery Centre.
The decision to introduce the new engine and discontinue engine operations at Geelong follows industry-wide changes in consumer behaviour, including lower demand for large cars and the corresponding increase in popularity of smaller, imported vehicles. These changes have seen sales of locally produced vehicles as a percentage of the total industry in Australia fall from 36.1 per cent in 1998 to 19.4 per cent year-to-date in 2007 (Source: VFACTS).
"The Australian car market has fundamentally and permanently changed," said Ford Australia President Mr Tom Gorman.
"Our new engine strategy is a direct response to the lower manufacturing levels of locally produced large vehicles. Although we remain committed to our current local vehicle lines – Falcon, Falcon Ute and Territory, it is imperative that we improve our ability to respond to the increasing consumer desire for alternative fuels, improved performance, and better fuel economy while spreading the investment required across a broader base of vehicles. Importing the new engine from 2010 will allow us to achieve these goals."
The new engine will be sourced from high volume US engine facilities that are anticipated to produce approximately one million engines per year by 2011. In contrast, Ford Australia's engine operation currently produces 70,000 engines each year.
The next stage in Ford Australia's new manufacturing strategy is to improve the capacity utilisation at its Campbellfield manufacturing plant.
"We are currently investigating a number of alternatives that will allow us to return our Campbellfield manufacturing facility to 100 per cent capacity," said Mr Gorman.
"We look forward to working with our employees to ensure we can deliver on the next step in our process to continue building our business here in Australia."
Ford of Europe's model range will have an all-new addition early in 2008 – The Ford Kuga. A preview model of the production vehicle will be presented to the press and public at the 2007 IAA Frankfurt Motor Show, which opens on September 13. "With the launch of the Ford Kuga, we will keep the promise that we gave at the Paris Motor Show 2006: to develop a stylish new model based on the stunning Ford iosis X concept car in less than two years," said John Fleming, President and CEO, Ford of Europe.
Ford's European Design team has applied its exciting 'kinetic design' form language to introduce a compact and distinctive new 4x4 crossover to the Ford portfolio.
"We recognised that image-conscious customers for this kind of vehicle want a very individual car in which impressive on-road capability blends seamlessly with substantial off-road ability," said Martin Smith, Executive Design Director for Ford of Europe.
"Kuga will stand out from the crowd by offering the visual excitement of 'kinetic design' and the on-road driving quality that customers of cars like the Ford Focus, the S-MAX and the new Mondeo have come to expect from us," added Smith.
The Ford design team is also releasing its first official styling sketch of the new model.
"Kuga is adventurous and distinctive, and we wanted to highlight this in our first official image," Stefan Lamm, Ford's Chief Designer for Exteriors, commented. "We believe that there is a role for a more athletic and charismatic vehicle that marks a departure from the norm, in the same way that the award-winning Ford S-MAX carved out new territory for an MPV."
The all-new Ford Kuga will go into production early in 2008 at Ford's Saarlouis plant in Germany. It will be launched across Europe from Spring 2008.
"I'm really excited that we are adding the Ford Kuga to our growing product range in Europe," said Fleming. "It represents the continuation of our design-led commitment to add emotion and desirability to our cars and we expect it to bring even more new customers to the blue oval brand as we continue our product-led transformation towards sustained business success."
Complementing a top five star Euro NCAP crash test rating, Ford’s Galaxy has received yet more praise for its safety credentials.
In the recently-published Which? Car 2007/2008 magazine, the consumer champions named Ford's full-size MPV as the joint winner of their annual Safety Award. Praising the seven seater, Which? Car said: “The Galaxy is one of the safest cars we’ve assessed this year.”
Tough, practical, good to drive and comprehensively specified, Ford’s flagship MPV benefits from an array of advanced active and passive safety kit. Which? Car particularly noted the Galaxy’s side curtain airbags, knee airbag and reactive head restraints designed to minimise whiplash injuries. ESP is also fitted to all models.
With the school holiday period seeing more families on the move than usual, the Galaxy’s acclaimed safety standards provide added reassurance for buyers this summer. And while occupant protection is top of the agenda, the thoughtfully designed cabin provides a first-class travel experience.
Boasting 30 per cent more luggage space than the previous model, the Galaxy is one of the most flexible and adaptable MPVs in its segment. Thanks to the innovative Ford FoldFlatSystem (FFS), with easily adjustable and individually folding second and third row seats, owners can choose from 32 possible interior configurations. All seats remain on board, but can be folded down to form a flat and vast load floor of 2.0 metres by 1.15 metres.
Offered across LX, Zetec and Ghia trims, Galaxy buyers can choose from 145PS 2.0i 16-valve petrol, two 1.8 TDCI diesels (100 and 125PS) and a 2.0 TDCI diesel producing 130PS in automatic guise or 140PS with the six-speed manual gearbox.
Galaxy's sportier sibling, the multi-award-winning S-Max, was also recognised in the Which? Car survey. Voted a 'Best Buy' in its segment, the S-Max, which comes with the option of the 2.5-litre turbocharged engine from the Focus ST, has become famed for its combination of engaging handling and seven seater capacity.
The new Falcon is described as being developed as a ‘top hat’ project. Essentially, the current BF model is getting new sheet metal and some minor revisions to its mechanical package. Aimed at the Holden Commodore in the Aussie market, the Ford Falcon also spawns a mid-sized SUV, labeled the Territory that’s also expected to come in for an update.
The FPV performance models will soldier on with the Ford Boss 5.4L V8 engine, but are expected to output more than the current 290kW peak power figure. The turbo 4.0L six should also get a healthy power boost, though it may not be around beyond 2010. By then, Australia will adopt Euro IV emissions standards and the venerable straight-six might not make the cut. More info and images after the jump.
The Ford Escape Hybrid is still the cleanest and most fuel-efficient SUV in the world, combining the fuel economy and emissions benefits of a full hybrid with the go-anywhere capability, toughness and spaciousness of the Ford Escape – America’s favorite small SUV.
For 2008, The Ford Escape Hybrid combines a fresh new look, inside and out, with infotainment and safety features, a choice of two hybrid-specific upgrade packages and four new exterior colors.
The Ford Escape Hybrid is a “full” hybrid, meaning it automatically switches between pure electric power, pure gasoline engine power or combined operation to maximize efficiency and performance. Its gasoline engine and electric motor work in concert, providing performance similar to that of a V-6 engine. In less demanding situations, the Escape Hybrid can run on its electric motor alone (at speeds up to 25 mph), its gasoline engine alone or the most efficient combination of the two.
Full hybrids achieve their greatest improvement in fuel economy during stop-and-go driving, when the electric motor is most efficient. In fact, the Escape Hybrid provides approximately 80 percent better fuel economy in city driving than the conventional V-6 Escape and can travel more than 500 miles in city driving on a single tank of gasoline.
It is an extremely clean vehicle to operate – an amazing 99.4 percent cleaner, on average than an unregulated vehicle. Ford Escape Hybrid meets strict Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV II) and Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV) standards.
The Ford Escape Hybrid is as tough as it is clean. For the past few years, taxi companies across the country have been putting Escape Hybrids to work, proving their durability and reliability after hours – even days – of continuous use. Many cabs have logged hundreds of thousands of working miles with no major issues.
Ford backs the Escape Hybrid with a standard 8-year/100,000-mile limited warranty for unique hybrid components, including the battery pack. Escape Hybrid is the first hybrid vehicle to offer towing capability of up to 1,000 pounds when properly equipped.
Escape Hybrid is produced at Ford’s Kansas City Assembly Plant in Claycomo, Mo.
Redesigned Exterior
The Ford Escape Hybrid is completely redesigned inside and out for 2008. Escape Hybrid now makes a more powerful statement, with a bolder, more rugged exterior design that bears a stronger family resemblance to the Ford Explorer and Ford Expedition.
The Escape Hybrid features unique badging that uses the Ford road and leaf insignia, with standard 16-inch wheels and a discreet battery cooling vent in the driver’s side rear quarter window.
For 2008, four new exterior colors are added to the Escape Hybrid lineup. They include Kiwi Green Clearcoat Metallic, Vista Blue Clearcoat Metallic, Black Pearl Slate Clearcoat Metallic and hybrid-exclusive Light Ice Blue Metallic.
Industry-first 100 Percent Recycled Seating Surfaces
The 2008 Escape and Escape Hybrid are believed to be the first U.S. automotive applications of 100 percent recycled fabric seating surfaces. The new fabric, supplied by Interface Fabrics, Inc., is produced from 100 percent post-industrial waste – defined as anything intended for retail use but never makes it to the consumer. This can be anything from plastic intended for pop bottles to un-dyed polyester fibers.
This plastic and polyester is processed, spun into yarn, dyed and woven into Seat fabric. Recycling waste otherwise intended for landfills has obvious environmental benefits. Interface Fabrics estimates that Ford’s use of post-industrial recycled materials, rather than virgin fibers, could conserve an estimated 600,000 gallons of water, 1.8 million pounds of carbon dioxide equivalents and more than 7 million kilowatt hours of electricity.
Upscale Interior Appointments, Flexible Storage Space
In addition to the industry’s first recycled seating surfaces, the 2008 Escape Hybrid features a host of interior innovations.
A “top of dash” display positioned at eye level on the dashboard shows ambient temperature, radio functions and climate-control readouts. This simple, efficient design puts much of the vehicle’s information in one place at the top of the dashboard, making it easier to reference when driving.
The Escape Hybrid features a clean, simple center console design with dials and buttons that “poke through” the face of the console. The instrument panel houses audio and climate controls, a standard MP3/iPod jack, and controls for available heated seats and in-dash navigation system.
Escape Hybrid also features Ford’s new, signature Ice Blue interior lighting. The cool blue lighting replaces the traditional green on the instrument cluster, the center console, the redundant controls on the steering wheel, and the door lock and window switches. Ice Blue presents a cool, crisp, easy-on-the-eyes light for night driving and enhances the overall feel of the interior.
Like the traditional Escape, Escape Hybrid offers seating for up to five and includes the same 60/40-split folding rear seat. Efficient packaging of the hybrid technology – locating the battery pack at the rear load floor – means that interior versatility is preserved. Even with a full complement of five passengers, cargo room behind the second row Seat is still an ample 27.6 cubic feet.
The maximum cargo space can be expanded to over 65 cubic feet, if desired. The roof rack is capable of holding up to 100 pounds of cargo.
A unique gauge package features an economy indicator with “green zone” that shows when the vehicle is operating on battery power. A separate gauge displays levels of charge and assist for the battery pack. An optional navigation system features an Audiophile stereo system, a unique energy flow diagram that displays hybrid system operation and a fuel economy screen that displays instant and average fuel economy.
Escape Hybrid also offers a 110-volt AC power outlet, perfect for a television, radio, air pump, electric razor or even holiday lights at the campsite.
Powertrain and Chassis
The Escape’s hybrid powertrain system consists of a half-dozen key components engineered to provide a seamless flow of power:
- A unique 2.3-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine features Atkinson-cycle combustion for improved efficiency and produces 133 horsepower at 6,000 rpm.
- A 70-kWatt (equivalent to 94 horsepower) electric traction motor provides an added boost to the drive wheels when maximum acceleration is desired.
- A generator-motor recharges the batteries, starts the engine and helps regulate how the two propulsion channels blend together in the transaxle.
- A special electronically controlled, continuously variable transmission (eCVT) harnesses internal combustion and electric power sources to drive the front wheels in a FWD Escape or all four wheels with the optional Intelligent 4WD System.
- A 330-volt nickel-metal-hydride battery pack located and sealed at the rear load floor stores electrical energy.
- An electronic vehicle system controller manages charging, drive assist and engine-starting functions. This device shuts the engine down during coasting and at stoplights to save fuel. It also converts the traction motor into a generator during braking to help recharge the batteries.
The generator-motor provides power boosts during heavy load situations, helping Escape Hybrid accelerate briskly to speed. In addition to fuel-free operation, electric motors deliver maximum torque at low rpm, so they are an ideal complement to gasoline engines that generate peak power at higher rpm.
For 2008, Escape Hybrid engineers made revisions to software in the control system to improve transparency, or the transition between gasoline and electric operation. The transition from electric-only to gasoline power to a combination of the two is now even more seamless and virtually imperceptible to the driver. The four-wheel-disc regenerative brakes also have been retuned to provide better feel.
A new Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) system allowed engineers to easily tune the amount of steering assist independent of engine and vehicle speed, giving the Escape Hybrid a very easy steering effort at parking lot speeds, while retaining Escape’s hallmark crisp steering feel while driving. Thanks in part to the new EPAS system, Escape Hybrid models achieve a fuel economy improvement of up to 14 percent compared to the previous model.
The optional Intelligent 4WD System, available on all Escape models, is fully computer-controlled and provides maximum traction as driving conditions vary. Its operation is so seamless that most drivers will never notice that it has engaged.
Escape bolsters its safety leadership with a host of standard safety features
The 2008 Escape Hybrid has an entirely revised restraint system that consists of new air bags, safety belts, steering column and a new steering wheel. Standard safety content includes:
- Ford’s Safety Canopy side air curtains deploy in certain side-impact collisions, or in the event of an impending rollover, helping to protect front- and second-row outboard occupants. The curtains remain inflated for several seconds after deployment to enhance protection during an extended crash event. The system features “roll-fold” technology that’s designed to slide the air bag between the glass and occupants as it inflates if occupants are improperly seated or resting their heads against a window.
- Seat-mounted side air bags deploy out of the upper portion of the front seats to protect the driver and front Seat passenger’s upper and lower torso.
- Occupant friendly door trims with softened armrests, side impact foam bolsters and intrusion door beams to distribute the loading during an impact to the hinge and B pillars.
- Ford’s Personal Safety System, which includes dual-stage driver and front passenger air bags, safety belt pretensioners, Seat weight sensing system for the passenger Seat and crash severity sensing.
- Ford’s Belt-Minder safety belt reminder for driver and front passenger. Escape Hybrid also comes equipped with such standard features as child safety locks on the rear doors, the LATCH child safety restraint system, SecuriLock passive anti-theft system and Ford’s Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
Escape Hybrid includes: 2.4-liter Atkinson Cycle engine; 330V sealed nickel-metal hydride battery; Electronically controlled continuously variable transmission; Permanent Magnet electric motor; Regenerative braking system; Chrome shifter bezel; Dual Electronic Automatic Temperature Control; Front and rear disc brakes; ABS; Hybrid-unique 16-inch wheels; Outside temperature display; Six-way power driver’s seat; Eco-friendly cloth front and rear 60/40 split seats; Electric Power Assisted Steering; Rear window defroster; Solar tinted glass; Power windows; Air conditioning; Auxiliary input jack; Day/night rearview mirrors; Power door locks and windows with one-touch down driver side feature; Two power points; Rear cargo light; Removable rear Seat cushions; Tilt steering wheel; Safety Canopy side air curtains; Personal Safety System®; Seat-mounted side air bags; Tire Pressure Monitoring System; SecuriLock®; Belt-Minder®; Child safety locks; LATCH; Remote keyless entry.
Options include: Intelligent 4WD System; 320-watt, Audiophile audio system with six-disc in-dash CD changer; Navigation system; SIRIUS Satellite Radio; 110-volt AC outlet; Power moonroof; Integrated side step bars; Leather-trimmed seats.
The Hybrid Premium Package includes: 110-volt outlet; Cargo area retractable cover; Compass; Electrochromatic mirrors and illuminated visors; Heated, power leather-trimmed bucket seats; Heated mirrors; Leather-trimmed second-row 60/40 split seat; Reverse Sensing System; Roof rack with cross bars.
A Hybrid Moonroof and Satellite Radio Package includes: SIRIUS® Satellite Radio with free 6-month subscription; Power moonroof.
Chrome Appearance Package includes: Chrome grille, roof rails and liftgate garnish.
* Ford, The Ohio State University, Ballard and Roush are collaborating to build and engineer the hydrogen fuel cell electric powertrains.
* The Ohio State University will attempt to set the land speed record for unlimited class fuel cell powered vehicle with the Buckeye Bullet 2.
The Ford Fusion Hydrogen 999 fuel cell car – a collaboratively engineered racer with Ballard, Roush and The Ohio State University – is one of two vehicles Ford’s fuel cell research team is helping prepare to set world land speed records. Ford researchers also are working with The Ohio State University student engineers on its Buckeye Bullet 2, a fuel cell-powered racer that will compete for a similar world record in the unlimited class category.
“Racing is part of Ford Motor Company’s DNA so it seemed only natural for us to build a fuel cell race car that runs on hydrogen, a fuel that could someday play a key role in meeting the energy needs of the transportation sector,” said Gerhard Schmidt, vice president, Research & Advanced Engineering for Ford Motor Company. “Our goal in attempting this record is to further expand our technological horizons with fuel cell powered vehicles. The collaboration with The Ohio State University also affords us an opportunity to work closely with a prestigious university, which provides out-of-the-box thinking from student engineers and helps us recruit talented young people to work at Ford Motor Company.”
The land speed record attempt will take place during Bonneville Speed Week from Aug. 10-17. The attempt will be sanctioned by the Southern California Timing Association®.
The Ford Fusion Hydrogen 999 land speed record vehicle was designed by Ford engineers and fabricated and built by Roush in Allen Park, Michigan. Ohio State University students are providing the design of the 770 hp electric motor, while Ballard is supplying the hydrogen fuel cells. Ford retiree Rick Byrnes, a veteran Bonneville racer, will pilot the Ford Fusion Hydrogen 999 car on its record attempt.
Ohio State University students have designed their unlimited class vehicle, dubbed Buckeye Bullet 2, from the ground up. Ballard donated the hydrogen fuel cells for Ohio State’s car, Roush its engineering services and Ford has provided overall project coordination and expertise in fuel cell drivetrains.
In 2004, Ohio State University students set the unlimited land speed record for an electric vehicle by running 315 mph in the first Buckeye Bullet, dubbed BB1.
Hydrogen Part of a Broader Effort
Ford’s strategy for alternative fuels is built around multiple technologies, including hydrogen fuel cells. This flexible approach allows the company to meet goals for customer needs, environmental impact and shareholder interests. The strategy does not focus on one catch-all solution but includes a flexible array of options, including hybrids, E85 ethanol, clean diesels, bio-diesels, advanced engine and transmission technologies and hydrogen fuel cells.
The company already has a fleet of 30 hydrogen powered Ford Focus fuel cell vehicles on the road as part of a worldwide, seven-city program to conduct real world testing of fuel cell technology. The 30-car fleet has accumulated more than 540,000 miles since its inception in 2005.
Ford also is conducting tests with the world’s first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, the Ford Edge with HySeries Drive. The Ford Edge with HySeries Drive uses a series electric drivetrain with an onboard hydrogen fuel cell generator to give the vehicle a range of 225 miles with zero emissions.
Currently, Ford offers gasoline-electric hybrids including the Ford Escape Hybrid and Mercury Mariner Hybrid. The company will also offer hybrid versions of the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan in 2008.
2007 Ford Mustang GT CS
Nothing captures that carefree, summertime, out-for-fun look better than a convertible. It promises soft breezes, sunshine and adventure -- even when it's just parked at the curb.
Considering those attributes, the identity of America's best-selling drop-top should come as no surprise.
"The Ford Mustang convertible is the No. 1-selling convertible in the U.S.," said Robert Parker, the car marketing manager for Ford.
It's been that way since 2004. And this year, the Ford Mustang convertible continues to gallop past its competitors by better than a 2-1 margin.
According to the latest figures available from R.L. Polk registration data, sales of new Mustang convertibles hit 12,829 though April, easily more than the Toyota Camry (5,990), the Pontiac G6 (5,525) the Chrysler PT Cruiser (4,781) or the Volkswagen Beetle (3, 881).
The enthusiasts at Car and Driver magazine have touched on why the Mustang convertible is a sales success.
"There aren't many four-seat convertibles that cost less than 30 grand and none of them have the alluring character of the Mustang. The looks are undeniably nostalgic, and in V-8 GT form, it's got the burbly muscle-car soundtrack of a bygone era. We want one," wrote the editors.
Ford is happy to oblige, with four Mustang convertibles in different trims plus special models like the GT California version and the limited edition Warriors in Pink model.
For collectors, the 2008 Shelby GT convertible hits the streets next month in a limited edition.
Along with Shelby and Ford Racing upgrades, this latest ride sports Vista Blue paint with silver stripes plus a 319 horsepower engine, 18-inch polished wheels and Hurst short-throw shifter -- just what one needs to show off at a summer cruise.
Warm weather has been a part of Ford Mustang's allure ever since the car was introduced in April 1964. From the start, Ford's oldest continually-produced car brand came in soft- and hard-top models.
"About one of every four Mustangs sold is a convertible. They're fun, affordable, and they represent open-air freedom," explained Dan Geist, Mustang's marketing manager, noting that nearly two-thirds of Mustang soft-tops are sold between March and October.
Market data shows that, with the average U.S. household now owning 2.2 cars, many convertibles are being purchased as third vehicles.
"People say, 'Let's have fun with it,' and buy a third car," Lonnie Miller, Polk's director of industry analysis, told Business Week magazine. "It's a segment that appeals to the id."
John McLellan, the sales manager of Varsity Ford in Ann Arbor, Mich., agreed that the appeal of a Ford Mustang convertible is obvious.
"You can't beat driving down the road with the top down. You have that relaxed, open-air feeling, and life is just much better," he said. "It's like being on vacation, even if you're driving to work."
With Ford Mustang, the attraction is more than just sensory, said McLellan. "Now, the quality is there, too."
Two recent quality surveys back him up. For the second year in a row, Ford Mustang was the highest-ranked vehicle in the Midsize Sporty Car segment of J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Survey (IQS) of customers in their first three months of ownership.
For the third straight year, Mustang also took home top honors in its class in the J.D. Power's latest Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout Study (APEAL), which asks customers to rate their delight with their vehicle's design, content, layout and performance after three months of driving.
The August 2007 issue of Car and Driver magazine reviews three affordable convertibles -- the Ford Mustang, the Pontiac G6 GT and the Chrysler Sebring Touring.
In rating the Ford Mustang in the middle, here's what the gearheads said:
"Ford Mustangs are all tied up with our youth and freedom and fun. For nostalgia reasons alone, we could enjoy this car…it drives well, in an all-natural, whole-grain, stone-ground sort of way…lots of rear-drive trustworthiness here. The brakes are especially firm…The big V6 is strong, producing the best 0-to-60 times at 7.3 seconds. It's also loud and crude-sounding…Today's machinery in a 1960s wrapper…rear passenger space is short on legroom…this pony feels a bit coarse around the edge…"
* Ford is leading the industry by developing environmentally renewable materials solutions, including seat fabric offered in the 2008 Ford Escape and Ford Escape Hybrid that is made from recycled materials.
* Other environmentally and business friendly technologies are being explored for production, including renewable fiber reinforced plastics.
Scientists at Ford’s Research and Innovation Center are hailing a major breakthrough with soy-based polyurethane foam — the primary substance that makes up a vehicle’s seat cushions, seat backs, armrests and head restraints.
While many in the automotive industry are experimenting with a 5 percent soy-based polyol — one of the many ingredients used to create the foam used in vehicles — Ford researchers have formulated the chemistry to replace a staggering 40 percent of the standard petroleum-based polyol with a soy-derived material. And they are doing it without compromising the durability, stiffness or performance of the foam.
“Five percent is relatively easy, a nice walk-before-you-run application, but there really isn’t a solid business case to do it,” says Matthew Zaluzec, manager of Ford’s Materials Research & Advanced Engineering Department.
“At 40 percent, which was formulated in our lab by our researchers, we have the ability to make a significant impact on the environment while reducing our dependency on imported petroleum.”
Initial projections estimate that using a soy-based foam at high volumes could represent an annual material cost savings of as much as $26 million. As for the potential environmental benefit, according to the National Institute of Standards and Technology, soy polyols have only one-quarter the level of total environmental impact of petroleum-based ingredients.
Friend to the Environment
Ford first showcased its industry-leading work with soy foams in 2003 on the Model U concept, which featured soy-based seat cushions as well as a soy-based resin composite tailgate. Ford’s research of possible applications for soybean products, however, actually dates back to the company’s early years. The Model T, for example, once contained 60 pounds of soybeans in its paint and molded plastic parts.
“Soy is a very green, renewable resource,” says Debbie Mielewski, technical leader for Ford’s Materials Research & Advanced Engineering Department. “Using a soy-based foam gives us the opportunity to conserve natural resources and reduce our environmental footprint.”
Most automotive manufacturers today use a 100 percent petroleum-based polyol foam. Per year, the U.S. market for this material is 3 billion pounds — 9 billion pounds worldwide. Mielewski says an average of 30 pounds of petroleum-based foam is used in each vehicle produced, making a strong case for auto manufacturers to consider and research other renewable, more environmentally friendly materials to produce the foam.
Conquering Obstacles
To protect its scientific advancements with soy-based foams, Ford has applied for two patents, one for high-content soy foam formulations and the other for a novel, low-odor process to synthesize polyols.
For some time, Ford researchers had been hitting a roadblock with the 40 percent soy-based foam because of its odd odor, reminiscent of vegetable oil. Ford formulation chemist Christine Perry says that issue is now resolved, thanks to a new synthesis method for soy polyol, developed and tested at Ford’s Research and Innovation Center. The new process uses room-temperature ultraviolet light instead of high heat and catalysts to make the soy polyol.
“Using high temperatures for the chemical reaction can cause numerous side products, which produce the rancid odor,” says Perry. “It also requires a metal catalyst and more energy. With our breakthrough UV process, we have a simple reaction that is readily controlled by time of exposure. Plus, it is inexpensive and reduces the odor.”
The actual foam is created by combining the 40-60 blend of soy- and petro-based polyol with an isocyanate cross-linking agent and nine other additives in precise combinations.
“We have done a lot of work on the formulation,” says Cynthia Flanigan, a technical specialist with Ford’s Materials Research & Advanced Engineering. “Because none of the additives is independent of one another, when you make a change to one, it affects all the others.”
Extensive testing of high and low soy percentages revealed that a 40- to 50-percent soy substitution produced a product with properties most similar to the 100 percent petroleum-based polyol foam.
For Ford, the end product is a soy-based foam that exhibits the desired automotive properties for seating applications such as seat cushions, seat backs, armrests and head restraints. The foam’s chemistry can be altered as needed, depending on factors such as the geometry of a part or required hardness of the foam.
Joint Effort
Ford is working in conjunction with other organizations and suppliers to bring these innovative technologies to the mainstream as quickly as possible. Several companies have already expressed interest in licensing them. 313-319-8544 cell
Auto parts supplier Lear Corp. has conducted head restraint trials with the 40 percent soy foam, measuring how it performs with a variety of production head restraint tools used for Ford vehicles. Bayer MaterialScience LLC has made significant contributions to the foam’s formulation development.
For the past three years, the project has received funding from the United Soybean Board, a group of farmers and leaders that oversees investments in soy-based technologies. To date, Ford is the only auto manufacturer financially supported by the United Soybean Board.
“We are certain that many of Ford’s competitors are watching the company’s efforts very closely with the idea of emulating any success Ford has with soy-based cushioning,” says Todd Allen, chairman of the USB’s New Uses Committee. “We believe that when the first soy foams are introduced on Ford vehicles, that will have a snowball effect on the usage of soy polyols by other industries such as agriculture equipment, recreational vehicles, office furniture cushioning and other automotive components.”
About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With about 260,000 employees and about 100 plants worldwide, the company’s core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company.
For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.fordvehicles.com
Source: Ford Motor Company
And these features are in addition to the array of comfort and convenience equipment for which new Mondeo is famed, including Electronic Stability Program (ESP), seven airbags, Thatcham Category 1 alarm, ISOFIX child-seat fixings, Sony in-dash six CD player, steering wheel audio controls, Quickclear heated front windscreen, cruise control, electric heated door mirrors, four
electric windows, front fog lights and air conditioning with individual controls for driver and passenger.
Created following outstanding press and public reaction to the range-topping Titanium X series, Titanium sits alongside the classic Ghia to give Ford a mid-range, luxury-themed Mondeo to suit every taste. Available to order now at Ford dealerships across the country, with first customer deliveries expected in time for September's '57' registration plate, Mondeo Titanium engine/transmission combinations and prices mirror the Ghia.
This means Titanium customers have one of the widest range of powertrains to choose from in the segment, from the ultra-economical 125PS 1.8 TDCI to the mighty five-cylinder turbocharged 220PS 2.5-litre petrol unit and lots more in between. Titanium also comes with the option of Ford's new automatic gearbox. The advanced six-speed transmission can be specified with either 161PS 2.3-litre petrol or 130PS 2.0 TDCI engines.
Despite the focus on luxury and performance, Mondeo Titanium won't cost a fortune to run. All engines are among the most economical in the class while insurance groups span from just 7E – 14E.
The standard fitment of the Ford Convers+ Human Machine Interface (HMI) system from the flagship Titanium X is also likely to be a big hit with buyers. This provides the driver with access to all key information via a six-inch colour display on the fascia with functions selectable through buttons on the steering wheel. This feature works particularly well when ordered with the Advanced Bluetooth option, which allows the driver to safely access mobile telephone contacts through the cluster display.
Other features distinguishing Titanium from Ghia include body-colour door handles and silver-painted front grille.
Ford's introduction of the Titanium series coincides with the availability of more options across the New Mondeo range in general. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Forward Alert can now be ordered in combination with Interactive Vehicle Dynamics Control (IVDC) with Continuously Controlled Damping while Climate Seats (which offer a cooling and heating function) plus a sliding load floor (estate only) can be ordered for August production.
Now with a choice of Edge, Zetec, Ghia, Titanium and Titanium X specification steps, eight different engine options, five and six speed manual gearboxes plus a new automatic transmission, Ford's Mondeo reaffirms its position as a car with real premium appeal.
* Changan Ford Mazda Automobile moved into the "top ten" car-makers in China
* Ford Motor Company's wholly-owned brands in China (Ford, Lincoln, Volvo, Jaguar and Land Rover) posted total retail sales of 93,206 unitsin the first half of 2007, a 25% growth over the same period of 2006, outpacing the industry average
* Ford brand vehicles, both imported and domestically produced, passenger and commercial purpose, grew 22% to 84,208 units
* Ford Motor's passenger car joint venture, Changan Ford Mazda Automobile Co., Ltd., reported a significant 57% year-on-year wholesale sales growth to reach 93,587 units
* Luxury brands of Volvo, Jaguar and Land Rover retail sales grew 66% percent for the first 6 months, to 8,779 units
* The third generation Ford Mondeo will be launched later this year as a major player of domestic premium CD-car segment
SHANGHAI, July 6, 2007 - Adding to the momentum of fast growth in 2006, Ford Motor Company in China continued to post a vigorous retail sales result for the first half of 2007, with 93,206 vehicles sold (under Ford, Lincoln, Volvo, Jaguar and Land Rover brands) and 25% growth over the volume of same period in 2006. This robust growth which outpaced the industry average shows increasing customer excitement with Ford vehicles. With j oint ventures established, modern manufacturing capacity fully utilized and sales/service networks rapidly expanding, Ford Motor Company's key strategic deployment in China has set the company on a steady fast-growth track.
"The first half of 2007 witnessed a significant phase of Ford Motor in China. The establishment of Ford Motor Research & Engineering Nanjing Co., Ltd and the launch of Changan Ford Mazda Engine Company underscore the commitments that Ford Motor has made to the China auto market. " said Mei-Wei Cheng, Chairman and CEO of Ford Motor (China) Ltd. "With the announcement of the coming 3 rd generation Ford Mondeo and an all-new Ford brand small car, Ford's complete line up of cars in China will soon include mid-size vehicles, small cars, SAVs, SUVs, and commercial vehicles."
Ford brand vehicles, both domestically produced and imported, passenger cars and commercial vehicles altogether, achieved total sales of 84,208 units, a 22% increase on the year-on-year basis.
Changan Ford Mazda Automobile ranked top 10 car-makers in China
Changan Ford Mazda Automobile Co., Ltd (CFMA), a Ford Motor Company joint venture in China, posted 6-month wholesale volume of 93,587 units, including various brands it manufactures. This marked a 57% increase over the same period of 2006. In particular, the 2 nd quarter witnessed a wholesale volume of 54,480 units, a 70% soar over the same period in 2006.
The power behind this vigorous growth is the steady introduction of highly competitive products and service. Ford Focus has been the shiniest star in the product lineup. Its 6-month retail sales volume, 55,676 units representing a 66% growth over same period last year, made a significant contribution to the overall performance of CFMA. The refreshed 2007 Ford Focus has demonstrated popularity as one of the hottest items in the market.
Another rising star is Ford S-MAX, which recorded a wholesale volume of 2,260 units for the first 2.5 months since its launch in mid-March. As the first SAV (Sport Activity Vehicle) Ford Motor introduced to China market, its kinetic design form language, outstanding German engineering and excellent driving dynamics have earned Ford S-MAX very positive market response and popularity.
In April, Ford Motor announced the local production plan of the 3rd generation Ford Mondeo later this year. The all new 3rd generation Ford Mondeo embodies Ford's special European kinetic design language and world-class technology. The demand for Ford passenger cars will undoubtedly soar again in the near future with the 3rd generation Ford Mondeo.
Having operated in China for only 4 years, CFMA for the first time made its way into top 10 passenger-car makers in China market in April, according to results released by China Passenger Car Association. It ranked No.7 with more than 20,000 cars sold in that month. Again in May, CFMA was one of the top 10. (The June ranking has not been released yet.)
Combining the new manufacturing plant in Nanjing, which is going to put into production by the end of 2007, and the Chongqing assembly, Changan Ford Mazda Automobile is going to boost its annual production capacity to above 410,000 units. Such will provide needed capacity for coming new products.
Transit continues to lead light commercial vehicle segment
As for commercial vehicles, Ford Transit produced by Jiangling Motor Corporation in Nanchang, of which Ford Motor Company holds a 30 percent equity share, again maintained the segment leadership of mid-to-high-end light van. Retail sales of 12,584 units from January to June increased 13% over the same period last year.
Volvo, Jaguar and Land Rover remain leading players in luxury vehicle market
Ford Motor Company's Premier premium brands of Volvo, Jaguar and Land Rover keep their fast-growth positions in China in the first half of 2007. Total retail sales of these 3 brands grow a significant 66% on the year-on-year basis, to 8,779 units. These Ford Motor premium brands are now significant players in the country's luxury vehicle market and will continue to grow in the future.
Auto financing extends presence in China
Ford Automotive Finance ( China) Ltd. (FAFC) is an indispensable arm for Ford's vehicle sales. The company extended its presence progressively in the first-half of 2007. By the end of the first half 2007, FAFC retail financing has reached 50 cities in China through 110 Ford Brand authorized dealers, up from 26 cities in 2006 year end. As for wholesale business, around 80% of CFMA dealers have applied for FAFC wholesale financing. Total credit line of 129 approved CFMA dealers amounts to several billion yuan. In addition, 4 Volvo dealers have been approved with credit line and another 20 are applying.
Showing his confidence in future prospects of the company, Mei-Wei Cheng says: "Ford Motor Company's strategic plans for China have been successfully put in place. With the efficient cooperation among different joint ventures and business units, and the introduction of more and more exciting new products, we are driving on the fast track to a fruitful future."
Appendix:
Retail Sales Record of Ford Motor Company in China (2007 first half)
2007
Jan - Jun
2006
Jan - Jun
Year-on-year growth
Ford Brand / Lincoln
84,427
69,110
+22.16%
Volvo, Jaguar and Land Rover
8,779
5,285
+66.11%
FMC in China total (including Ford, Lincoln, Volvo, Jaguar and Land Rover)
93,206
74,395
+25.29%
Changan Ford Mazda Automobile Wholesale Results (2007 first half)
2007
Jan - Jun
2006
Jan - Jun
Year-on-year growth
Changan Ford Mazda Automobile Wholesale
93,587
59,596
+57.04%
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., U.S.A., manufactures and distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. The company’s automotive brands include Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mazda, Mercury and Volvo. Its automotive-related services include Ford Credit and QualityCare. Ford Motor Company celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2003.
Ford’s history in China can be traced to 1913, when its first Model T was imported and sold in Shanghai. Presently, Ford owns 30% of the shares of Jiangling Motors Corporation Ltd., which produces Ford commercial vehicle Transit and other products. Ford Motor Company also has a 50-50 passenger car joint venture with Changan Automotive Corporation Ltd., which is called Changan Ford Automobile Corporation Ltd. Changan Ford has successfully launched two Ford passenger cars models, Fiesta and Mondeo, to the market. Ford Mondeo won Motor Trend "2005 Car of the Year, China". Its third product, the all-new Ford Focus, has been built in Chongqing since the 3rd quarter of 2005. In early 2005, Changan Ford's second passenger car plant in Nanjing started construction. On April 19, 2005, Ford, Changan and Mazda announced a new three-way engine plant joint venture, Changan Ford Mazda Engine Company Ltd., and the new plant has been in production since April 26, 2007.
In March, 2006, the Chinese government approved Mazda's investment in Changan Ford. The restructured company has been renamed as Changan Ford Mazda Automobile Co., Ltd. (CFMA). Changan, Ford and Mazda holds 50 per cent, 35 per cent and 15 per cent shares in CFMA respectively.
On the import business, Ford Maverick, a member of the world-renowned Ford SUV product line, has also been on sale in China. Lincoln Navigator, a premium full-size SUV was launched in China market in May 2005.
Products of the other Ford Motor Company affiliated brands, including Jaguar, Land Rover, Mazda and Volvo are on sale in China as well. Ford's service brand, Ford QualityCare, is also serving the customers in China.
Source: Ford Motor Company
