The Beach Blog

Three Fords Rank Highest in Durability in J.D. Power and Associates’ 2012 Vehicle Dependability Study

Ford Motor Company’s continuing emphasis on long-term quality is paying off for its customers.

Ford Motor Company has six vehicles ranked in the top three for long-term durability in their segment in the annual J.D. Power and Associates’ 2012 Vehicle Dependability Study.

The vehicles are:

• Ford Fusion, which also received the Midsize Car award for the second consecutive year
• Ford Explorer, which received the Midsize Crossover/SUV award (in a tie)
• Lincoln MKZ, which received the Entry Premium Car award (in a tie), has received an award in its segment for the last four years (Zephyr in 2009)
• Lincoln MKX ranked second among Midsize Premium Crossovers/SUVs
• Ford Ranger ranked second among Midsize Pickups
• Ford Taurus ranked third among Large Cars

According to the study, other Ford models such as the Ford Mustang also performed particularly well, although there is no award in this segment.

The study asks owners about problems they have experienced in the past 12 months with their three-year-old vehicles (for the 2012 study, 2009 model-year vehicles were surveyed). Survey respondents were asked to indicate any problems they experienced with their vehicle in the past 12 months, choosing from a list of more than 200 issues in eight diverse categories.

“It’s the customers who come out ahead,” said Bennie Fowler, Ford Group Vice President, Global Quality and New Model Launches. “The vehicles we are building today are more reliable than ever. Ford has made significant strides over the past few years to achieve world-class levels of long-term quality and desirability.”

According to J.D. Power and Associates, Ford models have performed very well in dependability during the past several years. Building vehicles with high levels of dependability is critical in shaping consumer perceptions, but such perceptions are also often based on historical experiences or anecdotes and may be out of line with the current reality. J.D. Power and Associates recommends that consumers gather as much information as they can on the latest models from a variety of sources to make an informed decision.

“The results of this study are extremely gratifying,” said Fowler. “The ranking amongst the top 10 brands achieved by Ford and Lincoln speaks to our ongoing commitment to develop and deliver best-in-class products.”

For more information on J.D. Power and Associates’ 2012 Vehicle Dependability Study please visit JDPower.com.

Ford Holds Nearly 500 Patents for Hybrid Technology

Ford now holds nearly 500 patents for its hybrid technology, paving the way for the Ford Fusion Hybrid to be America’s most fuel-efficient non-rechargeable sedan, getting 47 mpg.

“Ford continued to invest to develop new products like our new Fusion hybrids during the depths of the economic downturn,” said Chuck Gray, Ford chief engineer of Global Core Engineering Hybrid and Electric Vehicles. “We succeeded in transforming our lineup with leading fuel efficiency, thanks in part to the many Ford inventors who are helping make our Fusion Hybrid America’s most fuel-efficient sedan.”

One of those inventors is Ming Kuang, who has helped grow Ford’s hybrid patent portfolio from 10 in 2000 to nearly 500 today.

“The work on the Fusion Hybrid is all about a commitment I made a long time ago to have a positive effect on our environment,” said Kuang. “It’s about helping make the world my children live in – and the world my children’s children will live in – a better place.”

Kuang, 52, is technical leader in vehicle controls at Ford Electrification Research and Advanced Engineering in Dearborn, Mich.

Kuang’s innovations can be found throughout Ford’s transformed lineup, one-third of which will feature a model with 40 mpg or more in 2012 and build on the company’s commitment to go further by giving fuel-efficiency-minded customers the power of choice.

“I’m proud to have always had the resources and freedom to keep pushing forward on innovations for those vehicles,” said Kuang. “Being part of an organization that has so much respect for research and advanced engineering is what really gets me out of bed every day.”

Source: Ford

Four Ford Vehicles Win U.S. News’ 2012 Best Cars for Families Awards.

Four Ford models have been selected for U.S. News & World Report’s 2012 Best Cars for Families awards. These awards help busy parents navigate a confusing automotive market by identifying the cars that offer the best combination of factors important to everyday families.

2012 Ford Taurus

Editors selected Ford Taurus as the best full-size car for families because, “An expansive interior, strong crash test ratings and Ford’s MyKey system – which lets parents set speed limits to help keep new drivers safe – make the Taurus a strong choice for families who have kids in car seats as well as teens.”

Also named the 2012 Best Affordable Large Car for the Money, the Taurus has earned a lot of respect from auto critics in 2012. “Ford’s Taurus has a lot going for it,” writes Consumer Guide. “This large sedan is smooth, quiet, refined, and is surprisingly engaging to drive.”

2012 Fusion

Reviewers say that the 2012 Ford Fusion is “practical, fun to drive, and has a high-quality interior.”
Also on the 2012 U.S. News Best Affordable Midsize Cars for the Money list, the 2012 Fusion is a great choice for families at a reasonable price.

“Most car reviewers agree that the Ford Fusion is ideal for families because it has plenty of high-tech safety features, as well as interior and trunk space. It also offers an engaging driving experience, in addition to being practical and fuel-efficient.”

Fusion Hybrid

Reviewers say the Ford Fusion Hybrid is perfect for anyone “in the market for a midsize hybrid that performs like a gas-only car.” Many auto writers say it’s the best hybrid on the market. In fact, Automobile Magazine says, “Overall I’d say this is the best mid-size hybrid you can buy.”

Also on the 2012 U.S. News Best Hybrid Car for the Money list, the Fusion Hybrid was named the “Best Hybrid Car for Families” for its roomy interior and family-friendly tech features.

Ford Edge

Reviewers say “the new Ecoboost engine in the 2012 Ford Edge adds better fuel economy and fun driving dynamics to an SUV that already has an upscale and high-tech interior.”

The 2012 Ford Edge also earned awards from U.S. News for 2012 Best Two Row Midsize SUV for Families and 2012 Best Affordable Two Row SUV for the Money “for its superior combination of interior tech, fuel economy and price.”

Source: Ford and U.S. News

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

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

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

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

Two Fords Make “Top 10 Green Cars” List

The Fusion Hybrid’s outstanding fuel economy made it an obvious choice for Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com 2011 Top 10 Green Cars. But the driving dynamics, comfort and available SYNC® technology features were truly what won them over. While “packing the latest and most potent gas/electric package in Ford history,” according to Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com editors, it “balances impressive performance with excellent creature comforts and mileage marks that simply blow most other mid-size hybrid sedans into the weeds.”

The all-new Focus also wowed them with its handling, outfitted interior, available SYNC technology and available active park assist. Not to mention, a solid 40 mpg hwy with the SFE Package. “A conservative look with refined handling and plenty of cool features make the 2012 Ford Focus an appealing choice for drivers seeking a value-oriented American compact.”

Stop by Beach Ford in Virginia Beach or Suffolk to learn more about the top green cars from Ford.

Sources: kbb.com and Ford

Ford Finds New Use for 4.1 Million Pounds of Recycled Carpet

It may surprise you to hear that Ford uses recycled carpet in its new cars. But it should surprise you even more to learn where they’re putting it.

Ford’s efforts to use sustainable materials in its vehicles have landed carpet in the cylinder head covers on some Ford engines, greatly benefiting the environment.

During 2010, the use of EcoLon® material, a nylon resin made from 100 percent recycled carpet, saved more than 4.1 million pounds of carpet from landfills, the equivalent of nearly 154 football fields. It also amounted to recycling more than 985,000 yards of carpet and reducing the consumption of more than 430,000 gallons of oil.

The EcoLon material from Wellman Engineering Resins offers an eco-friendly, high-quality alternative to typical cylinder head covers and is one more example of Ford’s continued dedication to finding renewable material solutions for use in its vehicles. The cylinder head covers are manufactured by Dana Holding Corporation.

“By working with Wellman and Dana, Ford has found a way to bring green applications to a new, unique location in our vehicles,” said Brett Hinds, Ford manager, engine design. “This single use has made an incredible impact, and we’re continuing to look for ways to expand the use.”

The cylinder head covers are used on the 3.0-liter Duratec engine in Ford Fusion and Escape. They can also be found on the 5.0-liter engine, which powers Mustang and F-150.

“We didn’t have to make compromises for this application,” said Roy Ford, Ford engine sealing supervisor. “With a fixed raw material cost that delivers cost savings compared to oil, along with the green benefit, this application adds to the ways Ford is minimizing our impact on the environment.”

Source: Ford

Sales Rise: Consumers See Growing Value in Fuel Efficiency

Consumer demand for Ford’s fuel-efficient vehicles continues to grow as March sales increased 19 percent versus a year ago. Year-to-date, Ford sales totaled 496,720, up 16 percent.

“With gasoline prices eclipsing $3.50 a gallon, consumers are placing a high priority on fuel efficiency in every size and kind of vehicle,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “Customers are rewarding Ford for our investment in new products as well as more efficient engines and transmissions, which save them money at the pump whether they drive Fiestas or F-Series trucks.”

Ford offers 12 vehicles that lead their sales segments in fuel economy, including four vehicles with EPA certified 40 mpg or higher fuel economy ratings – a claim no other full-line automaker can match.

Cars
Ford’s new Fiesta set a record in March as monthly sales reached 9,787, up 56 percent from February.

Fusion also set a new record with sales of 27,566, up 21 percent versus a year ago.

The Ford Mustang (up 47 percent) also posted higher sales than a year ago.

Total Focus sales were lower than a year ago (down 12 percent) as the all-new model is just starting to arrive at Ford dealers, but the nameplate’s retail sales were up 16 percent.

Utilities

Sales of Ford’s utility vehicles were paced by the all-new Ford Explorer, which had its best sales month since June 2007. Explorer sales totaled 12,482, up 111 percent, making the new Explorer Ford’s fastest-turning vehicle in the showroom for a third straight month.

The Escape set a new March sales record – and its second best month overall – with sales of 23,975, up 25 percent versus a year ago. Sales of the new Ford Edge (up 21 percent) also were higher as were sales of the Ford Expedition (up 40 percent).

Trucks

Strong sales to commercial fleet customers as well as higher sales to retail customers powered Ford truck sales growth in March. Sales of Ford’s F-Series truck totaled 53,272, up 25 percent versus a year ago.

In January, Ford launched the 2011 F-150 with four all-new powertrains including two V6s – a 3.7-liter and a 3.5-liter EcoBoost. In March, V6-equipped F150s accounted for 37 percent of all 2011 F-150 retail sales.

“The No. 1 unmet need for full-size pickup truck owners has been fuel economy,” said Doug Scott, Truck Group marketing manager. “The good news is the 2011 Ford F-150 has best-in-class fuel economy, best-in-class capability and power, plus more powertrain choices to suit customers’ different needs.”

Ford’s commercial vehicles also posted strong year-to-year increases. Econoline sales totaled 11,827 (up 13 percent) and Transit Connect sales were 2,690 (up 47 percent).

Check out all the new cars at Beach Ford in Virginia Beach or Suffolk.

Source: Ford

SmartGauge with EcoGuide Helps Hybrid Drivers Monitor Fuel Effciency

Ford recently developed SmartGauge with EcoGuide–a new instrument that provides real-time information to help drivers maximize fuel efficiency. The tool is available on the 2010 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan hybrids.

“SmartGauge with EcoGuide gives the customer real-world feedback to make the most of their hybrids,” said Gil Portalatin, Hybrid Applications Manager. “Unique to Ford and Mercury hybrid sedans, this instrument cluster acts as a good ‘coach,’ engaging drivers in real-time to help them achieve maximum fuel economy.”

An important issue with the development of hybrids is how to effectively update the driver on the automobile’s performance, which usually consists of highly scientific and technological information.

“The main question hybrid drivers had was, ‘How do I know I’m getting the most out of my hybrid?’ ” said Jeff Greenberg, Ford senior technical leader. “We needed to create a system that better communicates with drivers and gives them the tools to maximize fuel efficiency. That’s what SmartGauge with EcoGuide does.”

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