The Beach Blog

More Ford EcoBoost Vehicles in 2012

Now that record sales of 127,683 EcoBoost-equipped vehicles in 2011 are on the books, Ford aims to more than triple production capacity of vehicles using this fuel-efficient technology in 2012.

Ford will expand its portfolio of fuel-efficient offerings this year with the fuel-saving 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine in the Escape and Fusion nameplates, and five new electrified vehicles.

“EcoBoost expansion and availability in high-volume nameplates such as the all-new Ford Escape and Fusion will take this affordable, fuel-saving technology to the heart of the market,” said Ford Group Vice President of Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering Sue Cischke. “Ford is committed to delivering class-leading fuel economy for our customers, which benefits the environment and helps the U.S. move toward greater energy independence.”

The full-size Taurus sedan becomes the first Ford vehicle to offer customers a choice between two EcoBoost engines. It will offer a 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder making an estimated 237 horsepower and giving customers up to an anticipated class-leading 31 mpg, while the iconic Taurus SHO sport sedan features a 365-horsepower, twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 delivering 25 mpg highway.

The green and mean Focus ST arrives this year as a high-performance – yet fuel-efficient – sport compact EcoBoost application.

Additionally, Ford offers an EcoBoost-powered Police Interceptor for 2012. It is the first-ever turbocharged law-enforcement vehicle offering.

By the end of 2012, nine Ford models will deliver or are anticipated to deliver an EPA-certified 40 mpg highway or higher, with still more fuel-efficient vehicles on the way.

Source: Ford

New 2013 Ford Fusion NASCAR Sprint Cup Car

The 2013 Ford Fusion NASCAR Sprint Cup car, unveiled yesterday as part of the Charlotte Motor Speedway Media Tour, was worked on by Ford designers in an effort to bring brand identity back to the sport. The result is undeniable with the 2013 Sprint Cup car mirroring the recently unveiled 2013 Ford Fusion production car.

Featuring a completely redesigned sleek new silhouette and fresh face, the 2013 Fusion Sprint Cup car was designed to be the face of a new era of stock car racing.

”We wanted Fusion to be the car that helped return ‘stock car’ to NASCAR.” stated Jamie Allison, director, Ford Racing. “I think fans, when they see the car, are just going to smile and cheer. It is going to reengage them with the sport and make the sport better because there is just something natural about seeing race cars that look like cars in their driveways.”

This marks the third time Ford simultaneously launched production and NASCAR versions of a new model. The first dual launch came in 1968, with the sleek fastback Ford Torino. Legendary NASCAR driver David Pearson drove the Torino to back-to-back NASCAR championships in 1968 and 1969. The second time came in 2006, when the then newly introduced Ford Fusion appeared in showrooms and on the track.

The new NASCAR Fusion entries will be tested throughout the 2012 campaign in preparation for their racing debut at the 2013 Daytona 500 in February.

Source: Ford

New Mirror in Ford Escape Reduces Outside Noise

Ford engineers are using an elliptical acoustic mirror to reduce noise in the all-new Ford Escape.

This high-tech device was used for the first time on Escape to reduce wind noise and deliver a quieter interior. The mirror resembles a satellite dish with a microphone. The mirror identifies “hot spots” where noise penetrates the interior of the vehicle, allowing drivers to listen to music or conversation inside the car instead of external noises.

This technology is deployed more commonly by European luxury vehicle manufacturers and is considered a breakthrough among U.S. manufacturers. The mirror measures noises on the surface of the vehicle and in the airflow.

The engineering team was able to make changes to the Escape shape, specifically the mirrors and A-pillar, while in the early clay model phase to test theories and validate expected results. Work was done in the Ford Aeroacoustic Wind Tunnel in Germany.

“We previously didn’t have this tool available,” said Peter Kleesattel, interior quietness development engineer. “Essentially we were able to optimize the shape earlier. In noise and vibration, the basic idea is you have noise sources outside the vehicle and you have the path.

“The path could be through the glass, door or insulation. Now we’re able to optimize the shape early on, reduce the exterior source and create a quieter interior.”

The optimized shape means the new Escape is quieter than the outgoing vehicle, and preliminary data show it will be among the leaders in interior quietness. In particular, the tuning work on the A-pillar helps ensure better noise performance in crosswind situations.

Wind noise performance has been optimized through more than 160 hours of engineering. In a typical eight-hour block, more than 20 configurations can be tested, including glass, mirror sealing and door sealing.

“Using the elliptical acoustic mirror helped the team pinpoint the source of the noise,” said Bill Gulker, NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) supervisor. “Previous technologies required more of a trial-and-error approach to finding the issue.”

Learn more about the all-new Ford Escape at Beach Ford in Virginia Beach or Suffolk.

Source: Ford

January Note from Tom Barton

Dear Beach Ford Family,

Happy New Year! I hope you all had a wonderful Holiday Season and have had a good start to 2012! I want to thank everyone in our Beach Ford Family for making 2011 a great year. For the second year in a row, Beach Ford’s new vehicle sales improved by over 20% and our service and parts sales also showed improvement vs. the previous year. Our family of customers is the reason for our success and it feels good to be growing again!

2012 should be another great one for Ford Motor Company and Beach Ford. There are four impressive new models coming out this year that will provide plenty of excitement throughout the year. First, will be a Focus ST sports coupe that will have a 2.0L Ecoboost engine, capable of 250 horse power! This car is really something and will give Beach Ford customers who are into small performance cars, plenty to brag about! This vehicle should be available before Spring.

Next will be a re-freshed 2013 Taurus with enough of a new look to reinvigorate the full size, upscale buyer who appreciates a little luxury without paying the luxury price tag.

Then comes the all new, completely re-designed, 2013 Ford Escape! This vehicle will be available in the Spring also, and is a beauty with a sleek new design that will change the way you look at a small SUV.

Later this Summer, the 2013 Ford Fusion will make its way to our showroom floor. I have seen this vehicle in its planning stages for over two years on my trips to Dearborn. It is nothing short of stunning. It just won “Car of the Show” at the Detroit Auto Show that is going on through January 20th. I know of no other mid-size sedan with as much elegant style as the new Fusion – it will be truly a game changing product for us and it will be available this summer. The best way to describe it is “Aston – Martin infused with plenty of Detroit DNA!” Just beautiful!

It was not so long ago that I might struggle a bit when writing a column like this, concerning future products. There just wasn’t that much coming out – at least worth writing about, anyway. Ford makes this easy now and it makes this business more exciting and more fulfilling than ever. I look forward to seeing you at our showroom sometime soon! It is going to be an exciting year!

Thank you for being a part of the Beach Ford Family,

Tom Barton

Fusion Named Autoweek’s “Best in Show” at NAIAS

Just days after being revealed to the world, the new Ford Fusion is already bringing home awards. The Autoweek editorial staff has chosen Fusion for its Best in Show award at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS).

The selection is based on one compelling measurement – the car people will remember most five years from now.

“It’s very rare for a midsize sedan to win Best in Show,” said Autoweek Editor Wes Raynal. “I think it’s the first of a lot of awards the Fusion is going to win this year.”

The highest award from Autoweek comes just one day after the car received the prestigious Detroit Institute of Ophthalmology’s EyesOn Design award at NAIAS.

Fusion is the first sedan to offer gasoline, hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions – each expected to deliver top fuel economy and an engaging driving experience.

“I’ve been with the company for 13 years,” said J Mays, Ford chief creative officer, “and I can truly say this is the best car ever to come out of the design and engineering center in Dearborn. We are delighted for the entire global design team, because this really was a global effort.”

Smart, sleek and fresh, the new Fusion is set to change how people think about midsize sedans.

Source: Ford

In-Car Health and Wellness Research

Ford, Microsoft, Healthrageous and BlueMetal Architects recently announced an alliance to research technology to help people monitor and maintain health and wellness while on the move.

The alliance was unveiled during the “Doctor in Your Car” keynote address at the Digital Health Summit at the International CES.

“People are spending more time in their cars, and with the tremendous growth in mobile healthcare solutions, Ford is dedicated to understanding the value of being able to connect to health and wellness-related services while driving,” said Gary Strumolo, manager of Infotainment, Interiors, Health and Wellness at Ford Research and Innovation. “Our connectivity platform – Ford SYNC – provides easy, voice-controlled access to mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, and therefore it makes sense to research areas that are important to our customers.”

Customer research and societal trends suggest there’s a strong business case for Ford to explore opportunities in health and wellness technology, Strumolo said.

The car that cares
Strumolo said Ford seeks to develop “the car that cares.” As people spend more time in their cars, the ability to manage health and wellness on the go becomes more important.

The goal is to figure out how to extend health management into the personal vehicle in a nonintrusive fashion. The prototype system was designed by BlueMetal Architects.

Using information collected from blood pressure monitors, activity monitors and glucose meters along with behavioral data shared by the user, Healthrageous is able to help people lead healthier lifestyles by shedding unhealthy habits.

Microsoft’s contribution is to translate robotic sensory information provided by the vehicle into an application that also provides a voice and touch-screen interface, while integrating biometrical data that come from a wearable device.

Ford SYNC allows this all to be done hands-free.

“This alliance signifies an important step in bringing health innovation into people’s everyday lives,” said Todd Bremner, chief technical officer for BlueMetal Architects. “Ford’s SYNC platform allows us to imagine, design and build natural user experiences leveraging voice and touch, which seamlessly bring wellness into your everyday commute.”

Source: Ford

Ford Mustang Boss 302 and F-150 Receive Lifestyle Awards from Cars.com

Ford has a car to fit just about every consumer’s way of life, and the Lifestyle Awards handed out by Cars.com prove they are spot on.

Cars.com selected Mustang Boss 302 for Play Car of the Year.

“Whether you’re on the street or at the track, the Boss 302 is a blast,” editors say. “The 444-horsepower, 5.0-liter V-8 delivers authoritative power and sounds like there’s an angry bear trying to get out of the trunk.”

Editors say they chose the Mustang Boss 302 as Play Car of the Year because, “We’ve liked the Mustang’s blend of raw power and handling prowess. Those qualities have been relentlessly honed in the Boss 302, and we’re suitably impressed.”

Additionally, the Ford F-150 won Cars.com’s Work Car of the Year. Editors applauded F-150 because, “If you need your work truck to do double duty, the F-150 has you covered.” It tops the class “because it has stayed fresh and evolved with the market.”

Editros say, “There are no better examples than its best-in-class 17/23 mpg city/highway with a 3.7-liter V-6, and its pioneering 365-horsepower, EcoBoost turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6.”

Stop by Beach Ford in Virginia Beach or Suffolk and take one of these Lifestyle Award winners for a test drive.

Sources: Ford, Cars.com

U.S. News Gives “Best Buy for the Money” Awards to Five Ford Models

Five Ford models have been chosen as being the best buy for the money – the most of any automaker – by U.S. News & World Report.

The awards help everyday car buyers navigate the car market by identifying vehicles that offer the biggest bang for the buck and best incorporate the features today’s car buyers want.

The 2012 Ford Edge, Fusion, Fusion Hybrid, Taurus and Fiesta were selected for their quality and value. The awards are determined by combining quality and value data into a composite score

The Ford Edge
The 2012 Ford Edge received attention this year for its new four-cylinder Ecoboost engine.

“The 2012 Ford Edge earned a 2012 Best Car for the Money Award by U.S. News Cars and TrueCar.com for its combination of interior tech, fuel economy and price,” says U.S. News. “That means it’s a better value than any other affordable midsize SUV with two rows of seats.”

The Ford Fusion
The 2012 Ford Fusion was ranked 1 out of 18 Affordable Midsize Cars. U.S. News reviewers say that the 2012 Ford Fusion is “practical, fun to drive, and has a high-quality interior.”

The Fusion is the 2012 U.S. News Best Affordable Midsize Car for the Money. It won this award, partially, for its low cost of long-term ownership. “Not only does the Fusion offer an appealing driving experience,” writes U.S. News, “But its spacious interior and numerous high-tech features make it a good value in its segment.”

The Ford Fusion Hybrid
U.S. News reviewers say, “If you’re in the market for a midsize hybrid that performs like a gas-only car, you should look no further than the Ford Fusion Hybrid.” Many auto writers say it’s their favorite Ford Fusion model, and some even say it’s the best hybrid on the market. Automobile Magazine says, “Overall I’d say this is the best mid-size hybrid you can buy.”

“Not only does the Ford Fusion Hybrid have good fuel economy, but it gives drivers an engaging experience behind the wheel,” writes U.S. News. “Its roomy interior, high-tech electronics and superb handling make it a good value in its segment.”

The Ford Taurus
The 2012 Ford Taurus ranks 1 out of 7 Affordable Large Cars. Among the many reasons why critics love the 2012 Ford Taurus are its good performance, stylish design and excellent cabin electronics. “The Taurus stands out for its comfortable and spacious cabin, excellent interior tech, balanced ride and low base price,” says U.S. News.

Consumer Guide writes, “Ford’s Taurus has a lot going for it. This large sedan is smooth, quiet, refined, and is surprisingly engaging to drive.”

The Ford Fiesta
The Ford Fiesta was ranked 1 out of 40 Affordable Small Cars. “The 2012 Ford Fiesta is a well-rounded small car that offers good driving dynamics, a comfortable interior and competitive interior tech for the class,” says U.S. News.

Sources: Ford, US News

The All-New Ford Fusion

Ford’s all-new Fusion is the first sedan to offer gasoline, hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions – each expected to deliver top fuel economy.

The all-new Fusion is the latest in a series of vehicles from Ford developed to satisfy customers everywhere looking for leading fuel efficiency, helpful technologies and game-changing looks.

“Our vision for Fusion was clear – deliver the very best of what ‘One Ford’ stands for,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president of Global Product Development. “We brought our global teams together around a blank slate with the charge to develop a midsize car with ground- breaking design and jaw-dropping fuel economy – one that featured technologies to help make our customers safer and better drivers. This car is the result.”

Technologies
• Lane Keeping System: This class-exclusive technology consists of three elements to help a driver maintain proper lane position. Using a small, forward-facing camera behind the inside rearview mirror, the system “looks” down the road, monitoring lane lines to determine that the car is on course. The system will alert a driver if drowsiness or erratic lane-keeping is detected. The second element warns a driver with a steering wheel vibration if the Fusion drifts too close to lane markings. Finally, lane keeping aid will actually apply pressure on the steering to help bring the car back into proper lane position.

• Adaptive cruise control: Using forward-looking radar, this system “looks” down the road when activated, slowing the Fusion when slower traffic is detected ahead. Adaptive cruise control enables collision warning with brake support to help slow the car if the potential of a crash is detected.

• Active park assist: Employing sensors, this technology can identify a suitable parallel parking space, calculate the trajectory and steer the car to properly position it within the spot. All a driver need do is operate accelerator and brake pedals.

• Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with cross-traffic alert: Sensors in both Fusion rear quarter-panels are able to detect traffic in a driver’s blind spot, providing both audible and visual warnings if traffic – unseen by the driver – is detected. BLIS technology enables cross-traffic alert, warning the driver of oncoming traffic when backing out of a parking space with obstructed views, such as between two large vans

Design:
• Silhouette innovation: Fusion’s sleek profile sets it apart from the powertrain/cabin/trunk “three-box” designs synonymous with midsize sedans

• Technical graphics: Fusion’s functional design elements such as headlamps, LED taillamps and polished exhaust tips communicate enhanced technological capability.

• Inside: The new Fusion offers a sporty, driver-oriented environment with next-generation seating that brings expanded functionality. A higher center console supports the driver-centric theme and yields clever storage for items a driver wants to keep handy.

• More Space: Additional passenger space was designed-in by moving the instrument panel toward the windshield, contributing to the cabin’s airy, open environment.

Stop by Beach Ford to learn more, or visit fordfusionstory.com.

Source: Ford

Ford Brand U.S. Sales Up 17 Percent in 2011

Ford brand 2011 U.S. sales increased 17 percent, totaling 2,062,915 vehicles, sealing the brand’s first three-point market share gain over three consecutive years since 1970. Total Ford Motor Company sales for the year increased to 2,148,806 vehicles, up 11 percent for the year.

“The year finished on a high note, with industry sales momentum strengthening as the year came to a close,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “We saw Ford sales strengthen as well, posting our best December retail sales month since 2005 and closing the year as America’s best-selling brand.”

Small car, utilities and truck sales drove Ford’s marketplace performance in 2011. Small car sales were up 25 percent in 2011 with 244,291 cars sold.
Ford Fusion had a record year with 248,067 vehicles sold.

Ford brand utility sales totaled 579,626 vehicles in 2011, up 31 percent, making it the best-selling utility brand in America. Sales were paced by the Explorer, up 124 percent, with 135,704 sold, and record Escape sales of 254,293, up 33 percent for the year, including an all-time monthly sales record in December of 25,574 vehicles.

In December, Ford brand sales were 201,737, up 16 percent from a year earlier. Ford sold 68,278 F-Series pickups in December, representing its best December sales results since 2006. For the year, F-Series sales totaled 584,917 trucks, making it the only vehicle to break the 500,000 vehicle sales mark last year.

At Beach Ford, we’re proud to be part of the Ford Family. Stop by one of our locations in Virginia Beach or Suffolk, and learn why we’re America’s best-selling brand.

Source: Ford

Ford Wins Two Autobytel Awards

Two Ford vehicles started 2012 off right by picking up awards from Autobytel, which is dedicated to helping consumers find information they need to purchase cars and connect to dealers online.

“The editorial group of Autobytel…is a varied assemblage, ranging in age, driving habits and geography but the vehicle finalists chosen for the Autobytel 2012 Awards were almost unanimous,” Managing Editor Michelle Naranjo writes. “Over their 75 years of combined experience, Autobytel editors have driven hundreds of vehicles and have chosen this year’s winners based on their game-changing potential, advances in design and overall performance and efficiency options.”

The best-selling pickup in the U.S. for the last three decades, the 2012 Ford F-150 EcoBoost™ was named Truck of the Year. “F-150 has seen its fair share of changes over the years, but the addition of the EcoBoost engine might be one of the biggest,” Autobytel says, as it “allows the F-150 to deliver best-in-class towing capabilities without sacrificing fuel economy.”

The 2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302 galloped its way to the Autobytel Sports Car of the Year award, with its “5.0-liter street-legal dose of V8 adrenaline.” Editors say, “This horse loves to run and we loved to drive it.”

Stop by Beach Ford in Virginia Beach or Suffolk and take one of Autobytel’s top picks for 2012 out for a test drive.

Sources: Ford, Autobytel

Ford Celebrates 100 Years in Britain with Fashion

At Ford, designers consider each new vehicle a work of art. Now the world of fashion can get a taste of that enthusiasm. Two young British designers have created haute couture – an elegant Edwardian dress and a showstopping necklace – comprised of parts from a 2012 Ford Focus.

Judy Clark, a nominee for Scottish designer of the year who worked under the late Alexander McQueen, was commissioned to create the dress in one week as part of the 100th anniversary of Ford in Britain. English jewelry designer Katherine Hawkins was issued a similar challenge – only use the parts to create a necklace.

Source: Ford

Best Sales Year Ever for Ford Fusion

In five short years since introduction, Fusion sales are expected to reach 240,000 by year-end, making 2011 its best-selling year ever and Fusion Ford’s best-selling car.

“Since launching in the 2006 model year, Fusion has reinforced Ford’s commitment to the midsize sedan market,” said Samantha Hoyt, Fusion marketing manager. “Recognized as a Best Buy every year since launch, Fusion is a key contributor to Ford’s car renaissance.”

Since its first full year of sales in 2006 through 2010, the Ford Fusion has expanded share of the midsize segment by 5.2 percentage points. In 2006, Fusion had sales of 142,502 and 6.7 percent of segment share. By 2010, Fusion sales had risen to 219,219 for an 11.9 percent share, representing an increase in sales of 54 percent over that period. By comparison, Toyota Camry experienced a 27 percent decline while Honda Accord sales saw a 20 percent drop.

Fusion has continued to accelerate, achieving record sales levels for 13 out of the last 14 months through November, reaching sales of 226,445. December sales are expected to increase this streak to 14 months. In October, Fusion sales eclipsed the 200,000-units sold milestone for the second year in a row. To see a graphic illustration of Fusion sales success, follow this link: http://media.ford.com/images/10031/fusionsalesgrowth.jpg.

Recognized by automotive and consumer media for quality and dependability, Fusion has been a success for drivers and dealers. Fusion’s trophy case includes:
• Most Reliable Family Car –from independent reliability and owner satisfaction survey data
• Most Dependable Midsize Car – J.D. Power and Associates
• Motor Trend’s 2010 Car of the Year – a highly coveted industry accolade
• 2010 North American Car of the Year – awarded by a jury of top automotive journalists

“In addition to being a sales superstar, Fusion has been incredibly successful in attracting new customers to the Ford showroom,” said Hoyt. “Fusion is our top conquest vehicle, as 40 percent of Fusion buyers are new to the Ford brand.”

Stop by Beach Ford in Virginia Beach or Suffolk and take Ford’s best-selling car for a test drive.

Source: Ford

Stretch Your Fuel Funds with Ford

Gasoline expenditures – as a percentage of the family budget – have approached their highest level in 30 years. The Oil Price Information Service reports 8.4 percent of the average family income is now spent on gas, reaching a record annual level of $4,155. The last time topping off the tank took this big a bite out of a driver’s wallet was 1981, as the country was sliding into recession and home mortgage rates hovered around 16 percent. Ford sees gasoline costs continuing to rise over the long term, so the Blue Oval product portfolio offers multiple alternatives to help customers stretch their fuel funds.

Click the image to view a larger version.

Learn more at Beach Ford.

Source: Ford

Ford Powers “The World’s Longest and Heaviest Parade Float.”

How do you power “The World’s Longest and Heaviest Parade Float,” according to the Guinness Book of World Records?

With a mighty Ford Motor Company 6.8-liter 10-cylinder gas engine.

Natural Balance Pet Foods turned to Ford to propel its massive 116-foot, 50-ton Surf’s Up! float that will debut on national television on Jan. 2 in a famous parade in Pasadena, Calif. Starring Tillman the surfing bulldog and his athletic canine friends, this will be the fourth straight year Tillman has shown off his skills in the parade.

The heavy float is driven by the same Built Ford Tough 6.8-liter V10 gasoline engine that powers Ford’s best-selling F-Series Super Duty chassis cab work trucks, E-Series vans and the new 2012 Ford F-650 medium duty truck. The engine is paired with a fuel-efficient Ford six-speed automatic transmission.

Source: Ford

Ford’s Power of Choice Tour

We all know that all-electric vehicles, like the Ford Connect, can help lead to cleaner cities. But Ford says going green can also save you money.

Last month, the Ford’s Power of Choice Tour stopped by Beach Ford, and WVEC was there to catch it.

Top 10 Driving Safety Do’s and Don’ts

With winter officially beginning this week, and as drivers prepare for the height of the holiday travel season, Ford offers a Top 10 list of driving safety do’s and don’ts to help drivers and their families stay safe on the roads this season:

10. DO allow a few minutes to brush and scrape your vehicle. Clearing windows is crucial for visibility and removing snow or ice from the top of your car will spare cars behind you from encountering an unexpected snow assault, impairing visibility or even cracking a windshield.
DON’T forget to clean snow and ice off your headlights and taillights as well.

9. DO use winterized windshield wiper fluid to make sure your wiper sprayer doesn’t freeze over or crack, preventing you from washing away dirt and salt.
DON’T try to melt ice from your windshield by pouring hot water on it. Using hot water can crack the windshield.

8. DO wash your car regularly to remove salt and dirt from the roadways.
DON’T let road grime prematurely age the body of your vehicle by neglecting to bathe it.

7. DO maintain at least half a tank of gas to prevent unnecessarily stranding yourself in adverse conditions. To help get the most out of your tank, Ford offers fuel-saving technologies such as its EcoBoost® engines, electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) and hybrid electric vehicles.
DON’T forget to check that all fluids are at proper levels and ensure all tires, including the spare, have the required pressure and tread.

6. DO prepare your car for an emergency. Essential items to keep in the trunk are a blanket to stay warm, proper attire (boots, jacket, hat and gloves) in case you have to be outside for an extended period of time, a shovel, flashlight with fresh batteries and snacks. Keep your cell phone charged to call help if necessary.
DON’T forget the kitty litter or sand, which can be used to provide added traction if your car becomes stuck in the snow.

5. DO remain aware of what’s around you on the road, including checking your blind spots and keeping an eye out for pedestrians or lost reindeer from Santa’s sleigh.
DON’T follow too closely. The general rule is the vehicle ahead should pass a road marker two seconds before you. In slippery conditions, it is recommended to double the amount of space between you and the vehicle in front.

4. DO apply even pressure when braking in slick conditions if your vehicle is equipped with anti-lock brakes. Keep in mind anti-lock brakes do not shorten stopping distance, but they do help you maintain control.
DON’T become overconfident in snowy and slippery road conditions. Always test road conditions with cautious driving when the surface area is wet or icy, particularly on bridges and overpasses.

3. DO turn the steering wheel in the direction of the slide when driving on snowy or icy roads until you gain control.
DON’T apply power or change directions suddenly on snow or ice.

2. DO stay calm if you find yourself stuck in the snow or broken down on the side of the road in adverse conditions.
DON’T leave your car unless available shelter is close by. If you need to run the engine to stay warm, make sure the exhaust pipe isn’t clogged with snow so the interior stays clear of harmful carbon monoxide.

1. DO make sure you are awake and alert behind the wheel. If necessary, take a break and grab a coffee.
DON’T lose track of how many eggnogs you consumed at the holiday party. The most important holiday safe driving tip of all is to refrain from drinking and driving under all circumstances. If you think you will drink, arrange for alternate transportation ahead of time.

Source: Ford
Picture: MLive.com

Ford and Cambridge University Work to Design Vehicles for Visually Impaired

Ford has joined forces with Cambridge University in England to gain a better understanding of visual impairment issues that come with an aging society and to use digital tools to better design vehicles for those with vision problems.

The World Health Organization reports that 285 million people worldwide suffer from some form of visual impairment. Of these, about 65 percent are aged 50 and over. And with a rapidly aging population, the number of visually impaired is expected to grow.

Working with Cambridge University
To respond to this growing problem, Ford has joined forces with a team of experts from the University of Cambridge’s Engineering Design Center. The team has developed a Vision Impairment Simulator to enable designers and engineers to gain a better understanding of the effects of a wide variety of visual impairments.

“It allows you to simulate visual impairments on any image. You load in an image, select a visual impairment and it lets you see the image as someone with that impairment would see it,” said Sam Waller, an inclusive design research associate at Cambridge, who developed the software. “You can then load in other designs and instantly compare the effects, or you can change the impairment and see how the design stands up to different problems.

“Even in the case of age-related macular degeneration, where the loss of central vision moves around with the eye, the software simulates this effect by allowing the user to move the “blind-spot” around to see its effect on different parts of the image,” Waller said.

Ford is using the software to study and optimize the design of its instrument displays, to ensure they can be safely and comfortably read by as many drivers as possible. The software also has been used to improve the design of mobile phones and for teaching inclusive design at several universities.

“For us, it is about promoting inclusive design, focusing on ability variation rather than disability, and designing to meet the needs of as many people as possible,” Waller said. “The software features a slider which enables you to instantly change the severity of the visual impairment, from very mild to very severe, so that companies can set a target for the level of visual impairment they will accommodate.”

Source: Ford

A Note From Tom Barton

Dear Beach Ford Family,

“Who said every wish, would be heard and answered
When wished on the morning star?
Somebody thought of that, and someone believed it.
And look what it’s done, so far.” — Kermit the Frog

It seems easier at this time of year to put things into perspective. In our modern world, with things like smart phones, tweeting, Facebooking, Sponge Bob, Big Brother, and the Kardashians, it is almost impossible not to become jaded, or at least, a budding cynic. From the way we entertain ourselves, to our need to inform all of our friends/”Fans” about what we are doing at all times, modern life makes it easy to move closer to the pessimistic. I was very lucky recently, to get a familiar reminder that it wasn’t always this way.

My son is now almost 12 years old, has an iTouch, the Wii, no mobile phone (yet), and was, when younger, a big fan early on of Thomas the Tank Engine and more recently, Sponge Bob. He does not watch TV much, as he is all about being outside and is, thankfully, happiest there. He was only vaguely familiar with the Muppets, but had heard several of his friends say the new movie, currently playing, was funny and worth a watch. Since I am old enough to have watched the first season of Sesame Street, but young enough to have been 9 years old when the Muppet Show premiered on television, it did not take much to get me to take him to see the new Muppet movie. I am very glad I did.

First, the movie is indeed worth a see, is very funny and will pull at your heart if you’ve got one, but I won’t write a review here. What is really important is that in addition to having a great day with my boy, I was reminded about the pure and important message these puppet-characters of my youth still deliver. A sense of humor without being nasty. Being together, working toward a common goal, facing adversity and overcoming it. Taking the right path. Trust. The Muppets, from their first movie in 1979 to the one today, teach belief in the face of uncertainty and they teach about hope. And they do this all by singing, by letting us know each character well, and by making us laugh. Quite a gift when you think about it. I left that show feeling young again. I might be getting older, but the Muppets don’t.

My son, toward the end of the movie, put his head on my shoulder and thanked me for taking him to see it. My little boy, on the threshold of his teenage years and then onto adulthood. For a brief moment, the cruel joke of parenthood swept over me – that they are merely on loan to us. But for today, my son, my greatest gift, is still my little boy.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all in our Beach Ford Family,

Tom Barton

Ford Focus Electric Expected to Deliver 100 MPGe

The all-new, gasoline-free Ford Focus Electric is Ford’s first-ever all-electric passenger car – a zero-CO2-emissions version of Ford’s popular small car expected to be the first of its kind to achieve the equivalent of a 100 miles per gallon fuel efficiency rating with seating for five.

Focus Electric is the first all-electric vehicle to feature faster charging technology, allowing it to fully recharge in three to four hours – half the time of Nissan Leaf. This technology can help double the car’s range during a busy day of driving and recharging multiple times.

“Focus Electric’s innovative faster charging technology can help customers save money and get much more out of the car in a busy day of running around town and recharging between stops,” said Sherif Marakby, director of Ford’s Electrification Programs and Engineering. “We also are pleased the Focus Electric will break the 100 MPGe mark – a great symbol of how Ford has transformed its fleet with many vehicles delivering leading fuel economy and efficiency.”

With 20 years of Ford research and innovation behind electrified vehicle software and hardware technology, the company offers proven engineering and design with Focus Electric. Ford holds approximately 500 patents, with several hundred patent-pending applications on technologies used in the new Focus Electric and its other electrified vehicles.

Focus Electric reflects Ford’s commitment to deliver fuel-efficient vehicles without sacrificing performance, capability or driving fun. Though range and miles per gallon equivalent figures are yet to be finalized, Focus Electric is expected to be competitive with other comparable all-electric vehicles.

“Focus Electric was designed to deliver the same dynamics and quality of a conventional Ford Focus,” said Eric Kuehn, Focus Electric chief nameplate engineer. “It shares many of the same premium components and features as its gasoline-powered counterpart while delivering distinct efficiencies and a uniquely exciting driving experience.”

Source: Ford

KBB.com Names Ford Focus to List of Best Redesigned Vehicles

Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com named the hot-selling Ford Focus to its list of 10 Best Redesigned Vehicles for 2012. Focus was honored for its styling, technology, comfort and convenience features, performance/capability, driving dynamics, safety, fuel economy, overall refinement and value.

Editors selected Ford’s latest small car offering because, “The Ford Focus has been more than just redesigned for 2012; it’s been reworked, restyled and completely changed from the model it replaces. It takes cues from other countries, incorporating a European look and feel, Japanese fuel economy and in-cabin technologies that rival both, but doesn’t stray from its American roots.”

Stop by Beach Ford to take the 2012 Ford Focus for a test drive!

Sources: Ford, kbb.com

Two Ford Engines Make Ward’s 10 Best Engine List.

Ford’s 2.0-liter EcoBoost and 5.0-liter V8 have each been named a Ward’s 10 Best Engine.

A record seven of this year’s Ward’s 10 Best Engines winners integrate state-of-the-art direct fuel injection, demonstrating the rapid pace of technology development as auto makers downsize their engines.

Forced induction also is well-represented, with four turbocharged and one supercharged powerplant on this year’s list. In each case, forced induction enables a smaller, more fuel-efficient engine to deliver outstanding performance.

“With so many engines featuring gasoline direct-injection and forced induction, we’re pleased to have a list that is rich in technology,” says Drew Winter, editor-in-chief of WardsAuto World magazine. “Plus, every engine reinforces the idea that even fuel-efficient vehicles must be fun to drive.”

Now in its 18th year, the Ward’s 10 Best Engines competition recognizes the latest powertrain technologies that are affordable to most consumers, boost horsepower and torque, sound appealing and integrate well with their respective vehicles.

Ford’s turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost was honored for its application in the Explorer and Edge. WardsAuto editors report they got a 24 mpg return in the Edge, “which deserves plaudits in this segment.”

For the second time Ford’s 5.0-liter V8 makes the list. In the Mustang Boss 302, editors note, it is “a 444-hp beast that pays homage to muscle cars of old, but uses modern overhead cam and aluminum construction.”

The awards will be presented at the North American International Auto Show.

Take two of Ward’s Best Engines for a test drive today at Beach Ford.

Sources: Ford, WardsAuto.com

New Ford Transit Van Proves Itself

Ford is building a new road at its Michigan Proving Grounds north of Detroit to make sure one of its newest vehicles can stand up to the rough use it is sometimes subjected to.

The new Transit van will eventually replace the venerable Econoline wagon and van in North America. The Transit will be a truly global cargo and people hauler with improvements in handling, fuel economy and technology.

“The new Transit will be the smartest, most fuel-efficient way to move cargo or people,” said Tim Stoehr, Ford Commercial Truck Marketing manager.

Next year, the optimized Transit will be put through three months of intense durability testing at the proving grounds. The Transit will climb curbs thousands of times while also navigating the bumpy and pothole-ridden road surface vehicles are sometimes required to endure.

But Transit will go beyond living up to Econoline’s sterling work reputation. The vehicle will also achieve at least 25 percent better fuel economy compared to similar Econoline vans, thanks in part to smart weight savings that will trim at least 300 pounds from Transit compared to a similar E-Series van. That means customers will potentially save thousands of dollars in operating costs from fuel savings.

The Transit van is the best-selling van in Europe. Ford has sold more than 6 million Transits across five continents. Transit is currently offered to global customers in a variety of cargo, passenger and chassis cab configurations with a choice of three efficient diesels: the 2.2-liter Duratorq TDCi I-4, 2.4-liter Duratorq TDCi I-4 and 3.2-liter Duratorq TDCi I-5.

Source: Ford

Ford’s November U.S. Retail Sales Up 20 Percent

Ford Motor Company’s November U.S. retail sales increased 20 percent versus a year ago. Total sales were 166,865, up 13 percent.

Ford estimates its retail market share has averaged 15 percent in the last three months – its highest retail share in five years.

Ford brand retail sales were higher for most products, with double-digit gains posted by Fiesta, Fusion, Escape, Explorer, F-Series, Econoline and Ranger.

“With gasoline prices continuing to track higher than last year, consumers continue to value fuel economy – no matter what size or kind of vehicle best meets their needs,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “Most Ford products deliver best-in-class fuel economy and provide customers an opportunity to choose what best works for them – EcoBoost technology or electrified vehicles.”

Source: Ford

Beach Ford Suffolk Celebrates 20 Years!

This weekend, Beach Ford Suffolk celebrates its 20th anniversary. That may still be a newcomer to some long-time residents, but we’ve found a home in Suffolk, and are glad to be able to serve the driving needs of so many newcomers and long-timers alike.

Some of our favorite people have been with us ever since Beach Ford came to Suffolk, 20 years ago, and they have plenty of stories to share about changes they’ve seen, their favorite memories, and their families.

Clyde Glass, a Beach Ford Automotive Service Technician, has been with us since opening day. He says Beach Ford has become more of a family environment over the past two decades. “When you work with the same people for so long, it’s very personal,” he says. “Everyone is able to talk one-on-one with the owners. It makes you feel good.”

Glass fondly remembers the cook outs we used to host out back to help the staff get to know each other, and he enjoys attending the Christmas parties every year. “I like meeting everyone’s families. It’s nice to talk to coworkers about real life stuff, not just cars.” Glass has two daughters of his own, ages 26 and 21, who we’ve watched grow over the past twenty years. “I raised them here,” he says. “They’ve only ever known Daddy for working here.”

Linwood Rowe, also an Automotive Service Technician, knows the exact date he started working for Beach Ford: December 4, 1991. He marvels at the technology advances Ford has made over the past two decades. “Cars have all the same basic functions, but technology changes constantly,” he says. Beach Ford regularly sends employees to school to keep everyone up-to-date on the changing technologies.

Rowe says the best part about working at Beach Ford Suffolk is our facility. The 82,000 sq. ft. repair center is a Certified Direct Repair Facility, serving customers with state-of-the-art technology. “The climate-controlled facility made such a big difference in my work and the operating procedure of the whole staff.”

Tracey Wilkins, a Beach Ford Assistant Service Manager for twenty years, says she trained Bob Barton. “I must have done a good job; look where he is now!” she laughs. One of her favorite memories is when she licked her finger to get food off Bob Barton’s face right as customers were filing into the room for a car clinic. “His older brother, Tom, looked shocked,” she says. “But Bob just looked at him and said ‘Tracey and I are close like that, Tom.’ And we really are like family here!”

Wilkins’ favorite part about working at Beach Ford Suffolk is the customers. “I have the best customers you can imagine. I’ve really gained their trust over the years, and that’s important to me.” Recently, one of Wilkins’ long-time customers passed away, and his wife called to let her know. “That was special to me,” she says through building tears. “And to see his wife’s face when I hugged her at his funeral…that’s one of the most special memories I’ll ever have.”

“The family style and comfort here mean a lot, because you take it home,” she explains. Wilkins has two children, ages 17 and 10. When asked what Beach Ford has meant to her family, Wilkins replies with one word: “Everything.”

As we celebrate 20 years in Suffolk, we recognize these three wonderful members of the Beach Ford Family for being with us since the beginning. There’s no doubt they’ve made us who we are today, and we thank them for all their contributions and loyal service.

Stop by Beach Ford Suffolk and meet all the people at Beach Ford, ready to satisfy all your driving needs, every way we can.

The F-150’s Fuel Saving Technologies Get High Marks for Quality

The F-150’s EcoBoost engine and another fuel-saving technology – electric power assist steering – earned high ratings from customers in Ford’s 2011 U.S. Global Quality Research System, or GQRS, helping to power the F-150 to some of the industry’s strongest independent quality rankings in 2011.

The V-6 EcoBoost-equipped F-150 is achieving customer quality ratings on par with F-150s equipped with the popular 5.0-liter V-8 engine, according to data from GQRS, a quarterly survey conducted for Ford by RDA Group of Bloomfield Hills, Mich. The data was gathered from surveys of more than 1,600 F-150 owners who purchased their trucks between September 2010 and May 2011.

“Ford F-150 customers are very discerning so we are pleased they rate our new EcoBoost technology as highly as V-8 engines that some thought truck customers would never give up,” said Doug Scott, group marketing manager, F-Series trucks. “We believe this is a good sign as we plan to roll out this innovative, powerful and fuel-saving technology to most of our lineup during the next few years.”

Electric power-assisted steering, or EPAS – another Ford truck first – is also giving the F-150 a quality edge, with steering that adapts to changing road conditions and vehicle speed, allowing for more confident handling and improved fuel economy.

Internal customer data show these technologies have reduced warranty claims with 25 percent fewer complaints for vehicle vibration and 33 percent less reported issues with drifting and pulling. This means customers are happier with the new system than the reliable outgoing hydraulic-assisted steering system.

“The F-150 is a symbol of how Ford is reinventing its lineup to lead the industry in fuel economy and quality,” says Bennie Fowler, Ford Group Vice President, Global Quality and New Model Launch. “We have demonstrated with our EcoBoost engines that we can deliver new technology with great fuel economy improvements and leading quality.”

Stop by Beach Ford in Virginia Beach or Suffolk to take the F-150’s EcoBoost and electric power assist steering for a test drive.

Source: Ford

The Car Connection Names the 2012 Ford Focus “Best Car to Buy 2012″

High Gear Media, the fastest-growing automotive publisher on the Web, has named the 2012 Ford Focus its Best Car to Buy 2012.

Focus earned the highest ranking from The Car Connection, chosen from amongst 40 nominees that included luxury car makes using unique “meta reviews,” that combine reviews by staff journalists with opinions gathered from around the Web.

Editors said Focus goes “well beyond state of the art,” and that its win “comes down to personality.”

“The 2012 Ford Focus has great looks, gas mileage and handling, plus some of the most advanced technology features in its class,” according to Marty Padgett, editorial director of High Gear Media. The Focus earned the highest rating from editors this year, topping other brand-new vehicles such as the Hyundai Veloster, Land Rover Range Rover Evoque, and Chevy Sonic.

Stop by Beach Ford in Virginia Beach or Suffolk to take the Best Car to Buy out for a test drive.

Source: Ford and High Gear Media

Seat Fabric in All-New Ford Focus Electric Made of Plastic Bottles

The all-new Ford Focus Electric features seat fabric made of recycled material that includes the equivalent of more than 20 plastic bottles per car.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stop by Beach Ford in Virginia Beach or Suffolk to try out these recycled fabrics for yourself. Oh yeah…and test drive a car while you’re at it!

Source: Ford

The All-New Ford Escape is the “Smarter Utility Vehicle.”

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

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

Escape technology makes life better

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

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

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

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

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

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

Spirited performance with outstanding fuel economy

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

Versatility and capability come standard

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

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

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

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

New SUV goes global

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

Source: Ford

Exciting New Things for the 2013 Ford Mustang

Ford Mustang just received a new design and a list of new technology features.

“The new Mustang is the perfect example of continuing to build on excellence. It takes the greatness of the 5.0-liter and V6 and pushes the refinement to the next level,” said Dave Pericak, Mustang chief engineer. “The car has been spot-on functionally and now we’re adding more features and technology to further improve the driver’s experience.”

More aggressive design
The new model Mustang, which goes on sale in spring 2012, offers a more aggressive design with a significantly more prominent grille. A more powerful splitter adds to that appearance. Functional heat extractors on the hood of the GT were specifically placed and designed to help move hot air out of the engine compartment and cool the engine.

“We are delivering a more distinctive and emotional design presence that celebrates the total performance of Mustang,” said Darrell Behmer, Mustang chief designer. “This latest Mustang design is very respectful of its heritage while continuing to look forward with a more powerful and modern look.”

Rocker panels running along the car are now body-color, making for a more premium appearance. The rear has been updated with a high-gloss black panel that connects the tail lamps.

Also new for Mustang design are standard high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps on both V6 and GT cars. Signature lighting plays into the technology upgrades for 2013 as well, with two individual light-emitting diode (LED) bars accentuating the front headlamps and three LED ropes forming the iconic three-bar rear lights.

The new car also offers mirrors with pony projection light, which casts the image of Mustang’s famous pony emblem on the ground when the unlock button is activated. New colors – Deep Impact Blue and Gotta Have It Green – join the existing sporty colors for 2013.

New driving technologies
The 2013 Mustang with 5.0-liter engine will now deliver 420 horsepower.

It can be specified with a six-speed SelectShift Automatic™ transmission. This advanced control strategy offers the driver a choice between fully automatic operation and manual control.

“This lets owners take an automatic out on a track day or whenever they want to drive sportier, and lets them have the convenience of switching to manual control,” said Tom Barnes, Mustang vehicle engineering manager. “It’s a significant improvement to our powertrain offerings that lets the driver take control.”

Hill start assist makes its debut on manually equipped Mustangs. This feature helps keep the car from rolling backward, making it easier to pull away when on a slope or hill. With the brake pedal pressed, if sensors detect the car is on a slope, the system is automatically activated.

A new 4.2-inch LCD productivity screen that lets customers access information related to fuel economy and vehicle performance also makes its debut on Mustang. The screen is navigated through a five-way control button located on the steering wheel and offers Track Apps, which delivers performance metrics for drivers right from the factory. The app measures g forces, shows acceleration times in quarter-mile and 0-60 increments, and displays braking times, complete with automatic and countdown starts.

The 2013 Mustang also offers customers two new audio systems for even better sound quality for incredible clarity and crispness. The optional Shaker™ system comes with eight speakers and pumps out 370 watts of power. The upgraded Shaker Pro offers nine speakers and delivers 550 watts of power.

Source: Ford

Ford F-Series Super Duty wins kbb.com’s 2012 Best Resale Value Award

Ford F-Series Super Duty is the winner of Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com 2012 Best Resale Value Award among full-size pickups. The prestigious awards honor vehicles expected to maintain the greatest proportion of their original list price after five years of ownership.

While most car buyers today consider sticker price one of the most significant numbers when choosing a new vehicle, the editors at Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com recommend that shoppers consider the resale value. Since depreciation is often the greatest expense for drivers during their first five years of ownership, these awards are designed to help consumers make more informed car-buying decisions.

Kbb.com noted the styling changes of the Ford F-Series Super Duty, along with an “upgrade in horsepower to both the V8 gas engines and diesels,” which helped Super Duty defend its Best Resale Value segment title.

Stop by Beach Ford in Virginia Beach or Suffolk to check out the Ford F-Series and take one for a test drive.

Source: Ford and kbb.com

Ford and Newman’s Own, Inc. Partner with Feed America

For the 11th consecutive year, Ford Motor Company and Newman’s Own®, Inc. are partnering with Feeding America, the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization, to donate truck loads of food to communities in need. Over the past decade, the two organizations have contributed 103 refrigerated trucks to Feeding America food banks.

With the recent donation of five more vehicles, the fleet of Ford trucks and vans reaches every state in the country, many states with multiple vehicles.

“Ford Motor Company has remained committed to playing a role in addressing hunger relief year after year,” said Jim Vella, president, Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services. “Through this unique partnership, our donated trucks have delivered more than 176 million meals to families across the country.”

This unique “Partnership for Hunger Relief” began when Paul Newman reached out to Bill Ford, then chairman and CEO of Ford Motor Company, in an effort to improve distribution of produce and other perishable food the hungry. The refrigerated trucks allow for delivery of fresh and nutritious food to hard to reach communities.

“More than 12 years ago Paul Newman realized there was a great need to get nutritious food more broadly distributed. With 49 million people facing hunger, we are glad this program continues to help make a difference, especially in the current economic environment,” said Tom Indoe, president and chief operating officer of Newman’s Own, Inc.

Source: Ford

MyFord Mobile App Honored with CES Best of Innovation Award

The several industry-first features of the MyFord Mobile app make driving a Ford Focus Electric hassle-free. And now, the remote vehicle monitoring and management features of the MyFord Mobile App will be honored with the 2012 International CES Innovation Design and Engineering Award.

“MyFord Mobile is designed to help Focus Electric drivers maximize their gasoline-free driving in a worry-free, low-effort way,” said Bill Frykman, Product & Business Development, Ford Connected Services. “Drivers can take advantage of information stored off-board to automatically charge their cars at the lowest possible cost and reduce range anxiety with plug-to-plug route planning.”

The MyFord Mobile app harnesses the power of cloud computing through a unique partnership with Microsoft, to keep track of when local utilities switch to lower off-peak charging rates, helping to minimize the cost of ownership of the battery-powered Focus Electric.

Drivers just need to enable a single setting in the app and then plug in their cars without ever worrying about what time the rates change in their area. The network monitors utility rate schedules and automatically transmits a signal to the vehicle through embedded cellular connectivity to start charging at the lowest cost. “With its quick 3 to 4 hour charge time using a 240-volt home charging station installed by Best Buy, the Focus Electric will be ready to go when the owner heads out in the morning,” said Frykman.

The capabilities of the network also enable drivers to plan customized trips using navigation data from Mapquest. Drivers can use the app to find charging stations, estimate whether they can reach a station with the currently available charge, and create multi-stop, plug-to-plug journeys for their daily driving needs.

The vehicle connectivity module and app also provide the driver with alerts when charging is complete or if charging is interrupted due to being unplugged or a power outage. The vehicle interior can be preheated or cooled while still plugged in using power from the grid to maximize driving range.

“We want to give Focus Electric drivers the opportunity to maximize the EV ownership experience,” said Frykman. “We’re honored CES has recognized our efforts to use the latest connectivity and cloud technology to augment the capabilities of the car to promote greener driving.”

The MyFord Mobile app will be available for use on most major smartphone platforms including Android, BlackBerry and iPhone. The same capabilities can also be accessed through a mobile web app for other platforms and a secure Ford website from any Internet-connected computer.

Source: Ford

Focus ST for the Road, Focus ST-R for the Track

The new Focus ST is Ford’s first truly global performance car. Available for both the street and the track, and with innovative design and technology throughout, the new Focus ST will be more powerful and surprisingly fuel efficient, raising the bar once again when it comes to handling too.

“The new Focus ST is a really exciting car for Ford,” said Jost Capito, director of Global Performance Vehicles. “It’s the first performance model to build upon the design and technology strengths of one of our new global production vehicles. It’s a car built for driving enthusiasts around the world, and they will not be disappointed.”

Focus ST delivers the same driving attributes that make all Ford Sport Technologies models stand out amongst the competition. The chassis, engine, sound and comfort of the car are tuned harmoniously to deliver a truly sporting experience with a level of refinement rarely seen in this type of vehicle.

Purpose-built racer
Despite its close resemblance to the Focus ST road car, the Focus ST-R is purpose-built for the track by Ford Racing in North America as a fully prepared competition car. It features a powerful 2.0-liter EcoBoost® engine, FIA-regulation roll cage, uprated brakes and track-tuned suspension.

Performance for the road or the track
Focus ST is powered by the 2.0-liter Ford EcoBoost engine, which offers an uncompromising mix of performance and efficiency. Ford’s lightweight, all-aluminum EcoBoost engine provides the power of a larger engine in a fuel-efficient smaller displacement using three key technologies.

High-pressure direct injection, low-inertia turbocharging and twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) all help to create an advanced combustion system that brings new levels of performance and fuel efficiency to Ford’s gasoline engines.

Focus prominent in motorsports strategy
Focus ST-R is part of an aggressive motorsports presence for Ford as its strategy to support motorsports development across its core global vehicle platforms gains traction. Ford is applying engineering and development expertise for vehicles like Focus ST-R to spur success in competition, similar to that being enjoyed by the Fiesta in RallyCross and X Games.

As the ST-R seeks to make its name on the track, the production Focus ST gives sporting enthusiasts an opportunity to enjoy a performance vehicle on everyday roads.

Source: Ford

Ford Adds “Do Not Disturb” Feature to MyKey

Ford is adding a feature to its MyKey® technology to block incoming phone calls and deter text messages while teens are behind the wheel.

The Do Not Disturb feature, which is available on all 2011 vehicles featuring SYNC® with MyFord Touch®, will be available as a feature parents can control through MyKey beginning with the new Explorer in early 2012.

Unlike turning the phone off, drivers can still make voice-activated outgoing phone calls and the SYNC 911 Assist™ feature can make a call in case of emergency.

“Adding Do Not Disturb to MyKey is yet another way Ford is helping parents to encourage their kids to drive safer,” said Andy Sarkisian, Ford Safety Planning and Strategy manager. “We are continually listening to our customers and responding to parents’ desire to make sure their kids are paying attention to the road, not their cell phone.”

Along with the added Do Not Disturb feature, MyKey features include:

• A top speed of 65,70,75or 80 mph
• “No belts, no tunes” feature that mutes audio system until front occupants buckle up
• The ability to block satellite radio channels carrying adult programming
• Volume control that can limit the audio system to 44 percent of maximum output
• Traction control system cannot be deactivated
• A speed chime alert at 45, 55 or 65 mph
• Early low-fuel warning beginning at 75 miles until empty

“Our dealers tell us that when they have a buyer with kids in the house and they mention the MyKey feature, every single one of them says, ‘How do I turn that on?’ Customers are very happy with the feature,” Sarkisian said.

To learn more about MyKey and Sync, stop by Beach Ford in Virginia Beach or Suffolk.

Source: Ford

The ‘65 Mustang Convertible Returns with All-New Ford-Approved Body Shell

It’s now possible to build a ’64½, ’65 or ’66 Mustang convertible from the wheels up using the all-new Ford-approved and officially licensed body shell.

The body shell for the original Mustang convertible, now in production and available for restorers as a Ford-licensed restoration part, gives classic car enthusiasts a new option in putting their classic dream Mustang ragtop back on the road.

“The 1964-66 Mustang is the most restored vintage vehicle. But the number of original 1964-66 vintage bodies is shrinking every year,” said Dennis Mondrach, Ford Restoration Parts licensing manager. “Most of the original Mustangs left in scrap yards are rusted or wrecked beyond repair. The new body shell is made of virgin metal and uses modern welding techniques. It comes rust proofed, and after final adjustment and finish preparation of the body panels, it is ready for painting and final assembly.”

To build a restored Mustang using the new shell, the powertrain, suspension and brakes, the electrical systems, the interior and trim can either be bought new or transferred from an existing car to the new body. Original parts that can’t be reused from an old Mustang can be replaced with Ford-approved restoration parts. Mondrach says that nearly all the parts needed to build a complete new 1964-66 Mustang convertible, except for some minor body hardware, are now available from Ford-approved classic parts suppliers.

Ford-approved Mustang restoration parts can be found at www.fordrestorationparts.com.

And don’t forget–If you need any help building your dream Mustang, just call Beach Ford.

Source: Ford

New Lane Keeping System Can Detect Drowsy Drivers

An innovative new Lane Keeping System will be available in the 2012 Ford Explorer that can warn drivers if it detects they are getting too tired to drive.

Ford will introduce in early 2012 an innovative Lane Keeping System with three unique features designed to help drivers stay in control behind the wheel, including a Driver Alert System that can notify drivers if it detects signs of drowsiness. In this case, a coffee cup light will appear on the dashboard instrument cluster to suggest the driver take a break.

“The Explorer is loaded with new innovations, including this new lane keeping technology that helps drivers stay in control of their vehicle if they drift out of their lane or show signs of drowsiness,” says Raj Nair, vice president, Engineering, Ford Global Product Development.

The system uses a small forward-facing camera mounted on the windshield behind the rear view mirror, and is able to identify lane markings on both sides of the vehicle.

When the vehicle is on the move, the camera looks at the road ahead and predicts where the vehicle should be positioned relative to the lane markings.

“Our engineering teams tested this technology for thousands of miles in many parts of the country to help ensure it performs on a wide range of roads with different lane markings,” said Michael Kane, vehicle engineering supervisor for Driver Assistance Technologies for Ford.

Source: Ford

Ford Race Cars Commemorate 110 Years of Ford Racing at SEMA

Ford Racing history comes full circle as iconic race cars from the past share the stage with Ford’s newest motorsports vehicles in a special salute to 110 Years of Ford Racing at the 2011 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show this week at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Ford’s racing legacy began in 1901 when Henry Ford entered and won his first and only race behind the wheel of a car he built named Sweepstakes. That historic vehicle – on loan from The Henry Ford Museum – is on display at SEMA along with a host of other cars that celebrate milestone moments in Ford Racing history.

“Racing is in our blood. It is part of our DNA,” said Jamie Allison, director, Ford Racing. “Henry Ford used racing to help prove out his product and to attract attention, and we race today for the same reasons – to prove out our products on the track, to draw attention to our products and to communicate the Ford story.”

The car that started it all 110 years ago also shares the stage with Ford’s latest entry into the motorsports arena, Focus ST-R, making its North American debut at SEMA. The turnkey race car is Ford Racing’s first truly global race car. It will be available to professionals, amateurs and track-day enthusiasts to race in a variety of series starting in North America in 2012.

“People who buy a Focus ST-R will get a fully prepared race car that will only need communications equipment and the customer’s decal to go racing,” said Allison. “We’ve already had significant interest in this vehicle from numerous established race teams.”

Visitors to the 2011 SEMA show will be treated to a broad spectrum of Ford Racing vehicles including:

1932 Edelbrock Special: This “2B” RTA/SCTA/BONNEVILLE record-setting roadster set 13 world land speed records in its day. The car features a 1932 Ford chassis, 259-cubic-inch 1949 Ford flathead V8 engine, with Edelbrock heads and three-carburetor intake. It could be considered the quintessential racing highboy of its era.

1965 Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupe Replica: Carroll Shelby built six of these coupes to compete against Ferrari in the World Manufacturers’ Championship GT race class.

John Force Mustang Funny Car: John Force Racing has been a fixture in NHRA drag racing for 36 years. The team has earned 17 Funny Car team championships, including a record 15 titles from Force himself.

So-Cal Streamliner: In 1949 Alex Xydias set the fastest timed run of 210 mph with this vehicle in the Southern California Timing Association (SCTA) land speed racing event on the Bonneville Salt Flats. This replica, just like the original, is composed entirely of Ford components, a Model A front end, Model T frame, ’49 Mercury flathead and a ’32 rear end.

Brian Deegan X Games Fiesta: Nicknamed “The General,” Brian Deegan has tackled the X Games Rally competition in a Ford Fiesta the last two years. In 2011 he captured X Games gold for Ford, leading a 1-2-3 Fiesta sweep in Rallycross competition.

Brent Hajek Bonneville Super Duty: On Aug. 19, this 2011 F-250 set two land speed records at the Bonneville Salt Flats.

Iconic Ford Racing vehicles featured at this year’s SEMA show:

1901 Sweepstakes
In 1901 Henry Ford – a virtual unknown at the time – drove in his first and only race behind the wheel of this vehicle, which he nicknamed Sweepstakes. In a stunning, come-from-behind victory, Ford defeated famous car builder and racer Alexander Winton in a 10-lap race on a one-mile oval track at the Detroit Driving Club in Grosse Pointe, Mich. That race on Oct. 10, 1901, changed the course of history because it helped Ford attract the investors he needed to start the Henry Ford Company – and then the Ford Motor Company – in 1903.

Jim Clark’s 1965 Indianapolis 500 winner, Lotus-Ford 38/1
Jim Clark scored Ford’s first victory in the Indianapolis 500 behind the wheel of this Lotus-Ford 38/1. It also was the first win for a rear-engine car. In fact, Ford-powered rear-engine vehicles swept the top four positions in that race with Parnelli Jones coming in second, rookie Mario Andretti third and Al Miller fourth. Ford brought one of its NASCAR teams – Wood Brothers Racing – to pit the car that day, and Firestone created special tires for it. A front-engine car has not won Indianapolis since that day.

Winner at 1967 Le Mans, Ford GT40 Mark IV
Dan Gurney and A.J. Foyt drove this Ford GT40 Mark IV to the second of four consecutive Ford wins at Le Mans in 1967. It was the first victory at Le Mans for an all-American driver lineup in an American-built race car. On the podium, Gurney popped the champagne cork and sprayed the bubbly over the surrounding people. That started a race winner’s tradition that continues to this day.

Source: Ford

How Ford Engineers Designed One Car for Body Sizes Around the Globe

Launching the new global Ford Focus posed many challenges for the designers and engineers at Ford. Something customers may not realize is the lengths they went to in order to accommodate the different and growing sizes of drivers from around the world.

Ford utilizes the latest data gained from 3D body scans carried out on a large range of ages and races to make sure they can cater for all global populations.
“We use a global statistical database that gives us accurate size ranges of drivers in different parts of the world,” said Ralph Gesang, supervisor, Driving Environment. “It shows not only heights but also the different types of body statures. This information helped us ensure that more than 97 per cent of the world’s adult population can sit comfortably in the new Focus.”

The database includes some of the most up-to-date anthropometric information (data collected from measuring human beings with the purpose of understanding physical variation), with cross-sections of adults in a number of different continents being scanned by laser from head to toe.

Ford engineers used this information to make detailed virtual studies of the interior design, looking at the space, comfort and safety of driver and passengers.
“The latest 3D body data directly influenced the development of the seat travel, the cushion shape and the adjustment range of the steering wheel and foot pedals,” said Ralf Nürnberg, Ford’s attribute leader, Occupant Accommodation. “Back seat head and leg room also were influenced when we visualized the 3D human models in our computer simulations of the new Focus.

“As well as the broad regional variations, the latest 3D body data also reflects the fact that, on average, the global population is getting taller and heavier, and the new Focus interior takes account of this trend.”

According to scientific studies, the average human height in industrialized parts of the world has increased by around 4 inches in the past 150 years due in part to better living conditions and improved diet. This type of historical data can also be used to predict the potentially rapid growth of people from developing countries.

Regional differences can even come down to drink preferences. In Europe, storage for a 1.5-litre water bottle is a customer want, whereas in China, tea containers are often carried in cars. Both were taken into account when designing the door pockets of the new Focus, ensuring customer needs were met without compromising the driver’s ability to sit comfortably and easily control the vehicle.

Areas outside of the cockpit were subjected to the same high level of scrutiny as those inside. For example, in some regions of the world, the average height and arm length is noticeably lower than elsewhere. For these regions, the maximum opening height of the rear tailgate was lowered to maintain a comfortable reach.

The overall result is that the new Ford Focus combines a stylish, aerodynamic exterior design with highly competitive interior space. By considering the greater range of shapes and sizes of the global customer base, the engineers at Ford have worked to ensure that, no matter where in the world it’s sold, the new Focus is a good fit for customers.

Source: Ford

100,000 Ford Explorers Sold This Year

More than 100,000 Explorers have been sold this year – making it the fastest-growing midsize utility in the nation.

“The Explorer continues to be one of the strongest vehicles in the Ford portfolio, and we are excited to see it surpass the 100,000-sales plateau for the first time since 2007,” said Amy Marentic, group marketing manager. “The success of this vehicle is further evidence we are delivering products that people want.”

This year the all-new Explorer has had stronger retail sales growth than any midsize utility, having either tripled or quadrupled sales in all regions of the country. In total, U.S. retail sales of Explorer are up 290 percent compared to the same period in 2010.

“With best-in-class fuel economy and technology like MyFord Touch®, terrain management and the world’s first second-row inflatable seat belts, Ford has shown that our dedication to customers’ needs is paying off,” said Marentic.

Stop by Beach Ford in Virginia Beach or Suffolk, and learn why the Ford Explorer is winning the hearts of so many buyers.

Source: Ford

Ford Focus Electric Nominated for Green Car Journal’s 2012 Green Car of the Year

Ford Focus Electric is one of five finalists for Green Car Journal’s 2012 Green Car of the Year® award, honoring environmental leadership in the automotive field. The winner will be announced during a press conference at the Los Angeles Auto Show Press Days on Nov. 17.

This year’s five finalists include the 2012 Ford Focus Electric, 2012 Honda Civic Natural Gas, 2012 Mitsubishi i, 2012 Toyota Prius v and 2012 Volkswagen Passat TDI..

These five finalists are also honored as Green Car Journal’s Top 5 Green Cars for 2012 for rising to the top of the field.

What is notable about this year’s field of outstanding nominees is that they represent different takes on what makes a car ‘green.’

“This year’s Green Car of the Year® finalists underscore that there is no single solution to our transportation challenges,” said Ron Cogan, editor and publisher of Green Car Journal and editor of GreenCar.com. “Here we have five exceptional answers to the question of how we’re going to increase efficiencies, reduce tailpipe and CO2 emissions, and decrease petroleum use. These nominees deserve to be recognized for their unique approaches in providing consumers diverse choices as cars intelligently evolve toward a more environmentally-compatible motoring future.”

Source: L.A. Auto Show

A Note from Tom Barton – October 2011

Dear Beach Ford Family,

“A merchant who approaches business with the idea of serving the public well, has nothing to fear from competitors.” — J.C Penney

A wise man, J.C. Penney. Almost too simple a notion though, right? Well, not really, if a merchant truly makes this the centerpiece of their business. Sure, we have heard them all, “The customer is always right.” “Service with a smile.” “The customer pays the wages, the employer just handles the money.” “Treat the customer as you would like to be treated.” There are many sayings that have been so over-used, we don’t even contemplate their meaning. J.C Penney’s quote, however, means a lot more than what’s on the surface.

As a merchant, serving the public well is about a lot more than just providing a product or service and doing it effectively. The best merchants not only supply and effectively deliver their products to their patrons, they create an environment, an atmosphere, for their customers. The best merchants don’t just present their product for sale. They manage to create and tell a story for their customers. Think about the best merchants you know. It doesn’t matter what kind or the product being sold. In the very best stores, no matter the product, it is what the customer sees, what they smell and how they feel, that makes the total experience – what tells the story that makes the customer enthusiastic about what the merchant is offering?

In Beach Ford’s case, we have a spacious and comfortable showroom with plenty of beautiful vehicles on display. We try to capture the Ford Motor Company heritage and encourage our customers to relive some of the classic Ford designed vehicles with our murals and photographs of famous Fords. Classic, framed antique Ford advertisements adorn the space and remind our customers just how long Ford Motor has been serving the families of America.

We have a functioning cafe, where the smell of fresh coffee wafts over the smell of freshly baked cookies. The children’s play area’s large, flat-screen TV plays the Disney Channel throughout the day, while college football fans watch the game, while waiting on their new car, from a 60 inch TV every Saturday in the fall.

You see, we don’t just want to earn our customers’ patronage; we want them to become wrapped up in an experience. An experience where they, for a brief period, get completely wrapped-up in their primary mode of transportation, the company they are getting it from, and yes, even wrapped-up in the image of themselves, that is derived from the car or truck of their choosing. But more important than even this – we want to forge relationships, even friendships, with our customers. At Beach Ford, this is what “serving the public well,” means.

Thank you for being a member of the Beach Ford Family,

Tom Barton

Ford Uses Plastic Bottles in Carpeting for SUVs.

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

“It’s a good use of recycled product and keeps it out of landfills,” said Laura Sinclair, a materials engineer for Ford and mother of two young boys.

Adding plastic bottles improves the durability of the carpet. “The polyester fibers created from pop bottles make up a nonwoven carpet material,” Sinclair said. “So think of it like when you make spaghetti – everything is intermixed. If you have more fibers running on each other – rather than what’s underneath, which can be more abrasive – that helps reduce wear.”

So adding more recycled bottles can help the carpet not wear as quickly, as well as help avoid the Fred Flintstone effect of your feet going through the bottom of your vehicle.

Also helping to mitigate wear is that the carpeting for the new Escape will be backed with cast foam. Cast foam helps reduce road noise and also fills in ridges and crevices for a smoother backing.

This attention to detail is something Sinclair enjoys.

“I like being a materials engineer because it is hands-on and what we do has a great impact on our customers’ perception of quality,” Sinclair said.

Source: Ford

Ford at 18th World Congress on Intelligent Transport Systems

Ford Motor Company will publicly demonstrate how cloud-based technology can make vehicles smarter during the 18th World Congress on Intelligent Transport Systems next week.

Ford Motor Company Executive Chairman Bill Ford will discuss the future of transportation, emphasizing how intelligent vehicles and innovations such as smart electrification can help solve emerging transportation issues on roads around the world.

Meanwhile, Ford researchers and engineers will showcase technology designed to personalize the driving experience that is centered on three areas of cloud-based innovation: intelligent routing, intelligent driving and intelligent operation.

“With this technology we are talking about pure customer benefit – creating the right individualized and optimized experience for each person, vehicle and situation,” said Paul Mascarenas, Chief Technical Officer and vice president, Ford Research and Innovation. “As our transportation system evolves – say, with lower emissions zones – the research we are doing now will help us meet the future needs of our customers. For example, cars could one day adapt their powertrain performance to these types of varying driving conditions.”

At the Google I/O conference in May, Ford introduced its research and innovation into using the cloud to predict driver behavior to optimize vehicle control systems and improve vehicle performance attributes such as fuel or hybrid-electric efficiency.

Ford’s commitment to the technology was further showcased when the Ford Evos Concept was introduced at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show in September. The Evos Concept explores the potential for connecting a vehicle to the cloud in order to tailor the driving experience based on variables such as personal tastes and moods of the driver.

“Ford already offers cloud-based services through Ford SYNC®, but those services thus far have been used for infotainment, navigation and real-time traffic purposes to empower the driver,” said Ryan McGee, technical expert, Vehicle Controls Architecture and Algorithm Design, Ford Research and Innovation, who will be presenting during the conference. “This technology has the potential to empower our vehicles to anticipate a driver’s needs for various reasons, such as optimizing a vehicle’s powertrain efficiency.”

In the example that will be featured at the World Congress on Intelligent Transport Systems, researchers will show how a prototype Escape Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) could use a combination of cloud-based and proprietary technology to learn when to switch from being gasoline-powered to all-electric upon entering a lower emissions zone. Cities such as London, Berlin and Stockholm already have such zones.

McGee said if a vehicle was able to predict exactly when it might be entering such a zone, it could optimize itself to comply with regulations and at the same time optimize energy usage over the total distance of the route by switching the engine to all-electric mode at specific times.

Source: Ford

Ford Triples Size of Program to Measure Suppliers’ Carbon Footprint

Ford Motor Company, an industry leader in collecting and reporting greenhouse gas emissions, announced last week it has more than tripled the size of its program to understand and measure suppliers’ carbon footprint.

Ford is surveying the energy use and carbon emissions of 128 global suppliers, accounting for nearly 60 percent of the company’s $65 billion in annual purchases. The new group is an expansion of last year’s survey population, which included 35 top suppliers. It includes companies that supply vehicle production parts and components, information technology and logistics services.

“Understanding the carbon footprint of our supply chain is a fundamental part of learning how to reduce the total environmental impact of our industry,” said Tony Brown, group vice president, Ford Global Purchasing. “By expanding our program to a cross-section of suppliers, we will significantly increase our understanding of suppliers’ ability to manage their carbon impacts and further inform the creation of a broad-based carbon management system.”

In addition to establishing a baseline for its own supply chain carbon footprint, Ford has led industry development of a guideline for estimating, collecting and reporting manufacturing facility-based greenhouse gas emission data. The company has helped to convene other automakers and Tier 1 suppliers at the Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG) to develop the guidelines and streamline information requests from automakers to suppliers. This is similar to the work that the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) is doing with their supply chain program across multiple industries. Ford is one of two automakers participating in the CDP Supply Chain Program for 2011.

Source: Ford

Focus Electric Home Charging Stations Receives UL Certification

Leviton, a leading global manufacturer of electrical devices, and Ford Motor Company announced earlier this week that the new Ford Electric Vehicle (EV) Home Charging Station has achieved UL certification for UL 2231, UL 2251 and UL 2594. The new Level 2 EV charging device, designed exclusively for Ford, is also compatible with all additional industry safety standards and recommended practices, including SAE J1772™ and NEC 625.

“We are excited to partner with Ford to give Focus Electric owners an industry leading, easy-to-use vehicle charger that provides the safety features for which Leviton products are known,” said Mike Mattei, Vice President and General Manager for Leviton’s Commercial and Industrial Division. “Ford and Leviton have both built reputations based on safety and quality, which is why achieving UL certification for this home device is so important, as it offers customers a solution they can’t find elsewhere.”

The Ford Electric Vehicle Home Charging Station provides up to 32 amps at 240 volts AC (7.7 kW output) – fully charging a Ford Focus Electric’s battery in a little over three hours, more than four times faster than the standard portable charger.

Offering an industry leading 10-year limited warranty, Leviton and Ford designed the home device with the customer’s safety in mind. A ground monitor circuit and built-in communication verifies proper connection before charging can commence. With a weatherproof NEMA Type 4 enclosure, the device is safe for both indoor and outdoor use – “non-permanent” plug-in installation is ideal for indoor applications, while a “hard-wired” conversion kit is available for outdoor locations.

“Charging is one of the most important components of owning an electric vehicle, so it was crucial to develop a charging station that made ownership easier and more affordable for Focus Electric owners,” said Mike Tinskey, Assoc. Director for Ford’s Global Electric Vehicle Infrastructure. “Through our partnership with Leviton, we utilized our collective electrical expertise to specifically design the EV Home Charging Station to meet stringent automotive quality, product development and testing requirements that will allow Focus Electric owners to charge with ease.”

Source: Ford

Ford Recognized as Corporation of the Year by the Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council

Ford Motor Company was named Corporation of the Year by the Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council (MMSDC) last week. This is the second year in a row Ford has received the award, which recognizes an automaker’s commitment to developing and growing a diverse supply base.

Last year, Ford exceeded its supplier diversity sourcing goals by purchasing $4.1 billion in goods and services from its tier-one minority- and women-owned business enterprises in the U.S.

In addition to Ford, Purchasing Executive Director Burt Jordan was named a President’s Award winner. Jordan is in charge of global vehicle and powertrain purchasing.

“Our company takes very seriously its commitment to developing and growing a diverse supply base,” said Tony Brown, group vice president, Ford Global Purchasing.

“Minority-owned suppliers offer a wealth of innovation,” said Brown. “It is imperative that all of us continue to connect with the best of the best and encourage our tier-one suppliers to support MMSDC’s mission to economically empower diverse communities through the creation of jobs. This not only strengthens the supply network, it creates jobs and economic growth for the communities we serve.”

Source: Ford

Ford’s Inflatable Safety Belts Earn Popular Mechanics Breakthrough Award

Ford’s innovative, industry-first rear inflatable seat belts have been named a Breakthrough Product Award winner by Popular Mechanics, part of the magazine’s seventh annual Breakthrough Awards.

Lead developer Srini Sundararajan will accept the prestigious honor at a ceremony tonight in New York City. The development of the technology was a team effort, Sundararajan says, and he’s proud that effort is being recognized.

“Ford’s goal is to develop innovative safety technologies that give our customers more peace of mind, so it is a great honor to receive the Breakthrough Technology Award,” says Sundararajan, safety technical leader for Ford Research and Innovation. “I thank Popular Mechanics for recognizing the contributions of a number of dedicated engineers from Ford.”

The rear inflatable seat belts are designed to provide additional protection for rear seat occupants. They combine the attributes of traditional seat belts and airbags to help provide an added level of crash safety protection for rear seat occupants.

Ford introduced the inflatable rear seat belts in the 2011 Explorer, bolstering the Explorer’s already extensive suite of safety innovations. The video below shows Ford’s inflatable safety belts in the development stage of late 2009.

Stop by Beach Ford in Virginia Beach or Suffolk to learn more about the safety features offered by Ford.

Source: Ford

Ford Researches Coconut Fibers for Use in Vehicles.

Ford is working with The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company to research how coconut coir, or husks, might be used as a plastic reinforcement.

“This is a win-win situation. We’re taking a material that is a waste stream from another industry and using it to increase the sustainability in our vehicles,” said Dr. Ellen Lee, technical expert for Plastics Research at Ford. “We continue to search for innovative renewable technologies that can both reduce our dependence on petroleum as well as improve fuel economy.”

Coconut coir is a natural fiber from the husk of a coconut. ScottsMiracle-Gro uses the material as a carrier for its soils and grass seed products. The coir’s natural fibers hold 50 percent more water than basic potting soil and release it as plants need it – helping homeowners save water.

“ScottsMiracle-Gro uses more than 70 million pounds of coir a year in our consumer products,” said Dave Swihart, ScottsMiracle-Gro senior vice president of Global Supply Chain. “Teaming up with Ford to find a high-value use for our leftover coir material is very exciting for us as we continually work to make our products and operations more sustainable.”

Once the coconut coir comes to Ford, researchers combine it with plastic to deliver additional reinforcement to the part while eliminating the need for some petroleum. Along with making use of a renewable resource, the new part would be lighter in weight. The natural long fibers also are visible in the plastic and offer a more natural look than typical materials.

In the interior, the material could be used in storage bins, door trim, seat trim or center console substrates. It could also potentially be used on underbody and exterior trim.

Ford is currently testing the material’s properties to ensure it passes all of the company’s durability tests. Coconut coir is very difficult to burn, and Ford is researching whether it has natural flame-retardant properties.

Eco-friendly solutions

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

Source: Ford

New Colors for Fords

The new exterior colors for Ford’s upcoming vehicles range from classic neutrals to strong earthy tones reflected in products from home furnishings to haute couture.

“The new colors coming on vehicles this year are fresh, rich and grounding,” said Susan Swek, group chief designer, Color & Material Design. “We don’t just choose a color and it winds up on a car. We study and understand how important color is to all kinds of our customers.”

New color choices arriving on the freshest vehicles from Ford include:

• Ginger Ale, which will be seen on the all-new Ford Escape when it debuts at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show, was named for its energy and refreshing qualities. A classic gold neutral with slight green undertones, it’s found naturally in rocks, minerals and sandy beaches as well as jewelry, gems and textiles

• Kodiak Brown, named after Alaska’s Kodiak bear for its richness and strong presence, is a deep brown with slight warm highlights. The fashion industry pairs it as a neutral with black, caramels, blues and greens

• Frosted Glass, a signature color of the Ford Focus Electric, is an icy light green that elicits a sense of calm, relaxation and tranquility, remindful of a spa or warm tropical waters. Seen in the fashion world, from light shades of green to dark teal<

“The technology available today has given us so many more options,” Swek said. “We are able to manipulate color, and play with the tones and shades and do absolutely remarkable things.”

Finding inspiration

These innovative colors are the result of hundreds of hours of work by today’s designers finding inspiration everywhere.

“We get ideas from nature, art, architecture, technology – everything,” said Swek. “We look at social influences, trend services, what’s selling now in a variety of industries and what has sold in the past.”

Ford designers work together globally on a timetable three years into the future. They also study all aspects of global culture to roadmap which vehicle colors should be popular at which time.

Color is worth the research time: “I’ve talked to dealers who’ve told me people have bought a car off the lot because of the color,” said Swek.

Research backs that up: Up to 40 percent of car buyers said they would walk out of a dealership if they could not buy a vehicle in the color they wanted.

Even the names of today’s colors are carefully developed.

“It’s important that the color name matches the personality of the vehicle,” said Swek. “Customers become emotionally connected to names. The name ‘Champagne’ is a lot different than the name ‘Sand,’ and all of that has to be carefully considered before a vehicle is ever presented to the public.”

Source: Ford