Showing posts with label ford. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ford. Show all posts

Thursday, February 13, 2014

The Garage Goes Further with Ford

After being a guest of Ford for the global reveal of the new 2013 Ford Fusion in Detroit this year, Ford called on The Garage again to attend a two-day forum, Go Further with Ford. Along with over 250 bloggers covering auto, fashion, environment, parenting, marketing and a myriad of other subjects, we all descended upon Dearborn, Michigan, where we arrived for dinner at Ford Field, home of the Detroit Lions and host to Super Bowl XL. We were treated to a speech from none other than Bill Ford, great grandson of Henry Ford. Known for being an industrial environmentalist, Mr. Fords concerns and thoughts on the environment and future of the car would underscore what our next two days would reveal to us.

I had the opportunity to kick a ten yard field goal on Ford Field, and failed miserably. Check the gallery below for a pic of Ford social media chief Scott Monty kick a three-pointer, wearing a suit and dress shoes, no less.

Back to business the next day, we would be taken to four different forums, covering distinct subjects. The first for me was the Age of Accessible Design, and easily my favorite. Faced with a panel of people completely immersed in design, yet in worlds not related to cars, with one exception. Fords chief designer, J Mays was on hand, as well as Project Runway winner Christian Siriano. In addition, an architect and furniture designer were there to offer their point of view.

The discussion was riveting, and Mr. Siriano was entertaining and informative, but offered a different view from automotive design. Mr. Siriano can change trends instantly with his fashion design. With cars, as J Mays pointed out, it is completely different. Instead of next week, Mays is working on designing cars we wont see until five years from now. J Mays was quite candid, emphasizing that each new car design is essentially a multi-million dollar gamble. You dont often think of it from that angle, but it is absolutely true. But the most telling piece of info I got out of the forum was this. J Mays actually spends most of this time in the UK. Mays spoke about the Europeanization of America in terms of design. That large cars are wasteful and status driven. In other words, dont expect another mammoth Ford Excursion super-size SUV. Instead, Mays sees an America that is concerned about fuel cost and efficiency, which have driven the European car market for decades. It is now upon us.

Another forum focused on Eco Psychology. This is the motivation of Bill Ford, and he is intensely focused on being green, even if Fords board of directors are intent on only profits. To that end, Ford is doing extensive research on using natural and organic materials in building their cars. At the same time, Ford is adamant in letting the customer decide, not dictate their options. Be it gas, gas-hybrid, or EV, Ford is allowing the customer to make the choice.

Ford is also keenly aware of the shift in car buyers mentality. As a member of Generation X, mine is the last generation where getting a license to drive was viewed as a rite of passage, as a means to see something greater than what was in the confines of my hometown. Generation Y, or Millenials, see the world far differently from me and generations prior. They are in no hurry to get a license. The internet satiates their need for exploration. They gravitate to urban centers where everything they need is within walking distance. Having graduated to an unstable economy, Gen Y is driven to access to local amenities and superior public transit rather than a car. Still, a car is needed, which explains Fords relationship with Zipcar, a company that offers rental cars in major American cities by the day our hour.

What was most telling was Ford telling us Generation Ys feeling disconnected while on the road-unable to text or web surf. While that sounds pretty pathetic to me, I suppose that is the new reality. Which brings me to the final forum of the day, focusing on technology. Ford, in conjunction with Microsoft has come under some fire about its MyTouch infotainment package, but strides seem to have been made to improve it. Ford seems to recognize that too much tech can overwhelm or confuse a driver. It intrigued me that Ford is currently developing software that reads from the steering wheel a drivers heart rate and sweat to decide if it is not a good time to relay a text message or other info. It is not currently available, but it is cutting edge technology.

Personally, it was a thrill to hear Bill Ford tell all of us we were invited to Dearborn because we were the elite bloggers in our respective fields. As East Coast Editor for The Garage, I sincerely hope you enjoy and are informed by the material we provide here. for you. Our busy day was capped off with a reception at Tech Shop Detroit, followed by a live concert by indie rock/folk band Blind Pilot.

*Editors Note: Ford Motor Company paid for my travel expenses and accommodations, but I was not compensated by Ford monetarily.

Related posts:

  1. Inside the Ford Brain Trust, The Garage in Detroit Part III
  2. Ford Thinks B Should be an A
  3. This week in The Garage: 2008 Ford Focus Sync
  4. This week in The Garage: 2008 Ford F-150
  5. 2009 Eurospec Ford Fiesta: The future of Ford in North America


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Monday, February 3, 2014

Ford Escape Price

2013 Ford Escape Price - After we tell you about 2013 Ford Escape Release Date period. Now, Do you want to know how many cost for this car? Maybe if you want to get it you will say yes, but you do not know exactly the vehicles cost. Thus, we will tell you about 2013 Ford Escape Price. But before you we tell you about how many cash that you must to out to buy it, we will evaluation this car first. How do you think about it, maybe this evaluation can help you to know more the benefits and the weak point of this one. Because of that, we recommend you to study the evaluation first that we small in edmunds.com, before you know the cost.

2013 Ford Escape Price
2013 Ford Escape Price
After decades of soldiering on with the same main groundwork, Fords little cross-over has finally acquired a considerable modification. From our experience with the 2013 Ford Escape, it looks as if it was value the wait. The new Evade seems to be as one of the top information in a area thats already packed with amazing alternatives.

The 2013 Ford Escape has some globally close relatives shrub, as it is depending on the Ford Kuga, a European compact cross-over that in turn shares its groundwork with the Ford Focus. Its gene discuss has overflowing it with handsomely eye-catching design and an health and health and fitness situation. In contrast to assured Evade, the new one has a 2.8-inch a longer period wheelbase and is 1.3 inches large extensive greater. Together, these dimensions provide more space within, while this models decreased dimension (by 1.6 inch) results in the structured look outside. Other inner changes contain higher-quality elements, a second-row chair thats much much easier to periods down, a "hands-free" power liftgate and the addition of the MyFord Get in touch with devices system.

A list of four-cylinder website alternatives contain the Escapes power selection, and all run through a six-speed computerized. One is a 168-horsepower 2.5-liter website taken over from last season, but its only offered on the foundation design. The well-known option is a new turbocharged 1.6-liter. It locations out 178 hp and earnings an EPA-estimated 33 mpg on the interstate. People who want quicker amount can opt for the 240-hp turbocharged four-cylinder, which efficiently swithces the V6 in the old Evade. A several edition of the Ford Escape is no more offered, however. 

Alright, as we guarantee to you our dearest audience. we will tell you about the vehicles cost. 2013 Ford Escape Prices are beginning at $22,470 - $30,370. May be useful. Thank you!!! 2013 Ford Escape Price
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Friday, January 10, 2014

2012 Ford B MAX

2012 Ford B-MAX
 Information Specification Modification Image Review 2012 ford b max
The new Ford B-MAX is now available to order priced from £12,995 to £18,895. Fords latest model is based on the existing Ford Fiesta platform and is available in three trim levels - Studio, Zetec and Titanium.

Featuring Fords Easy Access Door System, the B-MAX has traditional hinged front doors and a pair of sliding rear doors that do without the need for the central pillar structure.
When both doors are opened fully, the B-MAX offers an opening that is more than 1.5m wide. Both front and rear doors can be opened independently.

Entry-level Studio models are offered with a 1.4-litre petrol engine and a five-speed manual transmission. Standard specification includes electric windows, electric door mirrors, remote central locking and front, side, knee and curtain airbags.

The Zetec is available with a choice of three petrols and one diesel engine including the new 1.5-litre TDCi and 100bhp 1.0-litre EcoBoost. Buyers also have a choice of manual or automatic transmissions. The Zetec also comes with 15-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, fog lights, manual air-conditioning, a leather trimmed steering wheel and a DAB digital radio as standard.
2012 Ford B-MAX

2012 Ford B-MAX Interior


2012 Ford B-MAX Interior

2012 Ford B-MAX

2012 Ford B-MAX

The B-max, which is just 110mm longer than a Fiesta, also has another ace up its sleeve: itll be available with the punchy, economical 1.0-litre Ecoboost, which has impressed CAR in the Focus. It’ll be available in 100PS and 120PS versions, the latter returning 57.6mpg.
Other engines include a new 75PS 1.5-litre diesel, capable of 68.9mpg and 109g/km. The 95PS 1.6 TDCI, and 1.4- and 1.6-litre petrols will also be offered.

Company executives are peeved that Fords brand equity still lags Volkswagens, and RVs on cars like the Mondeo are pegged to anvil-off-a-cliff depreciators like the Insignia, rather than the floatier Passat. The hope is that, long-term, innovative cars like the B-max will help lift Ford above the shark pool of Korean, French and other rivals. source:carbuyer.co.uk,automobilemag.com,carmagazine.co.uk
2012 Ford B-MAX Interior

2012 Ford B-MAX

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Saturday, December 7, 2013

Ford Mustang 2012 The Cavalry Charge Continues





The return of old rivals had the best effect on the Ford Mustang 2012. The pioneer of pony cars has grown steadily since, on all fronts. Not to mention the introduction of modern versions of legendary models out the great history of the American standard. After the return of the 5.0-liter V8 and the appearance of a Shelby GT500 spectacular last year, this year this Ford Boss 302 that has everything to revive the glorious years of the Ford Mustang 2012 Trans Am series Y including a special key that transforms into a beast circuit and Laguna Seca version, which is nothing less than a race car that can register.


2012-mustang-ford


Ford does not stop in so good way and this year launched a modern version of the Boss 302, a sports car without compromise created in 1969 to allow for the inclusion of the famous Mustang Trans Am series will face She was especially Camaro Z28, Chevrolet created by the same purpose and the same spirit. Both versions were powered by very sophisticated V8 engines with a cylinder respected the limit of 305 cubic inches (5 liters) imposed in this series. Hence the term 302 for the 4.9 liter engine of the first Boss that Jacques Duval presented as “a loose race car” in the 1970 edition of the Guide of the car.


2012


For road or circuit Ford Mustang 2012


In short, the new Boss 302 is a version of the GT coupe that engineers revised or modified virtually all components to improve both performance and handling. Result: Ford Mustang 2012 with 4.9 liter naturally aspirated V8 produces 444 horsepower at 7500 rpm / min, a high speed for a V8 of that size. This is possible thanks to an intake manifold and camshafts as well as a different exhaust tips, two to four exhale on the sides of the car. The suspension is firmer and lowers the vehicle body from 11 mm to 1 mm and the front to the rear. Shocks and struts are set over five floors with a screwdriver depending on whether you ride on the road or on a circuit that driver. This Ford Mustang 2012 for diehard also benefits from alloy wheels are lighter and more powerful Brembo brakes.


Ford-Mustang-2012-2


The other thoroughbred always pawing Ford Mustang 2012


The Shelby GT500 last year became the most powerful Ford Mustang 2012 ever produced. Its 550 horsepower V8 compressed, derived from the Ford GT was produced in 2005 and 2006, consumes less than its predecessor, but it is mostly lighter than 46 pounds thanks to an engine block of aluminum. This important relief height front does wonders for handling.


In these times of economic uncertainty and restrictions, where electric cars and the like in the news almost daily, the presence of American cut as exceptional as the Mustang Boss 302 and Shelby GT500 in the range from the same manufacturer is rather the phenomenon. Congratulations to Ford let the deep passion of its engineers to freely express themselves as his proudest steeds. All the cars will be even better, the wisest of compact cars the most innovative green.


Ford Mustang 2012 News  src=http://blogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/FaceBook.png




Ford Mustang 2012 : The Cavalry Charge Continues
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Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Pimp Your Ride With Blaupunkt Amplifier And Car Subwoofer For 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid


12 Blaupunkt for 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid - $ 759.00

Retail Price: 949.99
You Save:$190.99

Ive been talking about pimping up your ride. now its time to add some colors and flavors in it. After all whats the use of a shiny and attractive car when you dont have a good sound system or even if you have a good car sound system but it produces a faint and flaccid base.

I bring for you, Blaupunkt amplifier, vivid and lively car subwoofers that can really add a spice in your car stereo system with the high performance 12" subwoofer tube. It has a tendency of boosting up your cars bass by 600 Watts, produces a frequency from 35-500 Hz providing booming lows for your favorite car music. Its easy plug n play car amplifier and no need of cutting, slicing your existing cars wiring. The
amplifiers exclusive "Planar Power Plant" ( 3p ) technology makes for a cool running, compact size which is 1/3 of the conventional amplifiers for out of sight mounting flexibility.

The kit includes remote volume control, radio plug in harness, extension harness and speaker wires. Easy to install but still dealer installation is recommended.
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Saturday, November 23, 2013

2012 Ford Shelby GT500 Review And Prices

The 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 is one of the latest version of 2012 Ford. 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 is a 2-door, 4-passenger sports car, or convertible sports car, available in two trims,the Coupe and the Convertible.

The 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 is available at MSRP Price of $48,810 - $53,810 And Invoice Price of $44,161 - $48,611.  Upon introduction, The 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 both trims are equipped with a standard 5.4-liter, V8, 550-horsepower, supercharged engine that achieves 15-mpg in the city and 23-mpg on the highway. A 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 has 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard.

The 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 injects blood-pumping performance and retro styling into a package that is nevertheless easy to live with every day. Among muscle cars, its the top dog. Standard safety features for the 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 include antilock disc brakes, traction control, stability control and front-seat side airbags. Fords MyKey system (which allows you to limit the cars top speed and stereo volume) is also standard. A temporary tire-inflation kit replaces the spare tire.



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Ford Transit gets a Unique Diesel Engine

 Ford van faithfuls are currently facing the demise of one of the most iconic work vans of all time. Dating back to 1961 the Ford E-Series has been the mainstay of American work vans. That all changed with the new One Ford ideology and the 2014 Ford Transit.

Ford initially confirmed that the Transit would receive the popular 3.5 liter EcoBoost engine, but would not confirm what diesel engine would also be available. The last iteration of the E-Series lost its diesel option because the new 6.7 liter Power Stroke V8 was simply too large. That meant that it was also out of the question to fit into the snub nosed Transit. The 6.7 liter Power Stroke is the only diesel engine that Ford currently offers in the U.S.. Due to size limitations it was clear that Ford was going to have to bring a brand new diesel engine to the American market. 
This never before seen engine is a 3.2 liter Power Stroke five-cylinder diesel engine that Ford confirmed is related to the engine currently available in the global Ford Ranger. This engine is a modern common-rail diesel that offers 197 horsepower and 347 lb-ft of torque in its global configuration. Federal emission regulations make it necessary to have a urea consuming selective catalytic reduction system as well as a diesel particulate filter. On the upside this engine is expected to be B20 (20 percent biodiesel) compatible.

A five-cylinder diesel engine seemed like the least likely choice. Competitors are bringing V6 diesels to the U.S. market and it seemed likely that Ford would follow suit. Though a quirky engine may be the perfect match for this European transplant.

Ford has gone out on a limb offering a van that seems to be an ocean away from its predecessor. Is this engine the right size for the job? As a work vehicle would you choose the Power Stroke over the latest EcoBoost technology?

Photo Credit: Ford Motor Company 
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Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Ford Focus ST Review

Ford Focus ST with outstanding features compared with its less powerful engines colleagues are deliberately restrained. The 18-inch model in the ST design fill out the wheelarches look good, snout and tail are a discreet spoiler and diffuser with integrated center exhaust by the roof spoiler, the only externally incident identification.

Ford Focus ST 2013

Inside, the ST design, however, is striking. A bespoke suit resembling the Recaro seats that are suitable to order according to model in two-tone exterior paint to provide excellent support when cornering at speed. The operation of all functions is a bit strange, since at least the middle console of switches almost overloaded.

Works closely tailored the passenger compartment. It may be due to the lower body, which still leaves enough headroom? Or is it the very slim fitted interior of the Focus? In any case the passengers are well embedded in a Ford Focus, suggesting a degree of greater safety.

Electrically folding exterior mirrors with environment lighting and Blind Spot Assist, the Lane Assistant including fatigue Warner and high-beam assistant, the traffic signs detection and heated windshield and washer jets. In sum, considered almost a bargain. It is used for traffic safety and can be used for relaxing travel.

Ford Focus ST 2013

Performance

Nothing against a 2-liter turbocharged gasoline engine. An engine that can be found virtually in its basic configuration for all manufacturers. We missed the five-cylinder engine from the previous-ST and the RS and the RS 500 yet. The hoarse rattle, pushing the brutal and distinctive motorsport genes had to yield many new demands.

Ford Focus in its currently fastest edition also serves Handsome vehicle for the long haul. Since no menacing sound and the onboard annoying family can relax and chat. The Ford on average stated consumption of 7.2 liters can only be achieved with a lot of restraint. In our tests, the onboard computer was usually at about 10 liters, which should be noted is that we usually go pretty fast, were prevalent cold temperatures and snow tires were mounted.

Almost perfectly accustomed are the driving characteristics of the ST. As with all the other Focus models, the chassis is designed with a mix of sportiness and comfort, so that no harm beats the disc, yet the fleet cornering is done brilliantly. When ST is the sporty tuning tighter the ticking and is supported harmoniously with the electric power steering EPAS, the three-stage ESP and electronic differential lock and the CUSC system.

The electronic power steering is calibrated so that it influences torque even more sensitive and detects as for example with simple straight ahead looks extremely smooth and sporty cornering extreme acts directly with corresponding slight resistance. Already quite sporty design is the normal level of the ESP, in contrast to the other Focus models engages much later. The repeal of the traction control, the next step can be to even slight drifts and intervenes only resume once the aid is urgently needed. Completely goes well, but should be of only experienced pilots and used most exclusively on racetracks.

Opposite effects are showing yet matched TVC and CUSC. The electronic differential lock TVC (Torque Vectoring Control) brakes in quickly approached curves the inner wheel off specifically to reduce the typical understeer tendency of a front-wheel drive. The opposite approach suggests a CUSC (Cornering understeer control). By a specific torque is added, before the ESP used, affects the yaw angle and the sensitivity is equal throughout, whether the driver is accelerating or not straight. The highlights of the ST in spheres that succeeds by other manufacturers generally only with adaptive chassis.

Ford Focus ST 2013

Specifications: Ford Focus ST

Engine: 4-cylinder petrol engines
Transmission: six-speed manual
Displacement: 2,000 cc
Power in kW / hp at xy / RPM: 184 kW (250 PS) / 5,500
Max torque: 360 Nm at 2,000 to 4,500 rpm
Length / Width / Height: 4.362/1.823/1.484 in mm
Wheelbase: 2,648 mm in
Empty weight: 1,362 kg
Perm. Total weight: 2.050 kg
Luggage capacity: 363-1148 l
Tires: 235/40 R 18
Wheels: 8.5 x 18 "Alloy
Acceleration: 6.5 seconds
Maximum speed: 248 km / h
Fuel tank capacity: 60 liters
Fuel consumption combined transport: 7.2 liters per 100 km

Ford Focus ST 2013

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Monday, November 11, 2013

2014 Ford Mustang Release Date

Since the appearance of fifth creation motivated past models, Ford mustang musclecar back is known as vintage style presenting intensely muscled. However, the vintage style fans get prepared to grieve the loss of a determine that has associated it since 2005. The reason, Ford is prepared to dislodge the Ford mustang vintage styles currently available with a show of innovative idea vehicles, Ford Evos. Honda himself has launch Ford Evos at the Frankfurt Motor Show 2011 show ago.
2014 Ford Mustang Release Date
2014 Ford Mustang Release Date

In the event, two-door automobile is appealing guests with hybrid technology. By implementing the style of Evos, Ford mustang will look redeveloped in various areas. Among them in the face that would look clearer with shark nosed grill and considerably tilted light.

2014 Ford Mustang Release Date
2014 Ford Mustang Front View


2014 Ford Mustang Release Date
2014 Ford Mustang Release Date

2014 Ford mustang to be launched later this year will be awaiting the clients and the intelligent cards should be existing at the Los Angeles Vehicle Display, or in Detroit in 2013. Currently Formal Ford has not verified the actual price for the 2014 Ford mustang will likely be launched at prices nearer to the time frame of purchase.
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Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Ford Flex Attach With Pleasure

If the Ford Escape has been a complete redesign for 2013, the Flex has meanwhile undergone only minor changes. Crossover American manufacturer is gaining popularity since its introduction on the market in 2008. Known for its versatility and its spacious interior, the Ford Flex 2013 now offers a more modern design. However, it comes in three versions – SE, SEL, Limited – whose starting price is between 30 499 and 44 399 dollars.
Ford Flex 2013

A second generation? Ford Flex 2013

This is not something that easy to change the design of a vehicle that already knows a huge success in its current form. By the force of things, Ford engineers have made no major changes to the silhouette of Ford Flex 2013. The second generation of American crossover will therefore have to be delayed. Nevertheless, he recognizes a new front more modern. The grille and headlights will merge to create a fine line and elegant.
The Ford Flex 2013 is one of the only vehicles whose design “square” is not seen a negative eye.Indeed, unlike the Honda Element and Nissan Cube crossover U.S. does not seem to come from another planet. However, the Ford Flex 2013 is not immune to criticism, because many people who criticize his lack of character.
Ford Flex 2013

A new personality Ford Flex 2013

Since its introduction on the market, the crossover offers an interior very similar to the F-150, which failing to give him a personality evokes the strength and security of a van. Now the Ford Flex 2013 has an interior that is unique. His new dashboard backlighting is very sophisticated. Center console is more modern and fits much better with the philosophy of Flex.
The interior of the American crossover is spacious and comfortable. Having neither won in height or width, the Ford Flex 2013 offers the same load capacity as last year. Where things have changed is the level of interior finish. The Ford Flex 2013 has many design elements that add a refined its interior.
Ford Flex 2013

EcoBoost Ford Flex 2013

Although the Ford Flex 2013 offers a powerful base 3.5-liter engine developing 285 horsepower and 255 foot-pounds of torque, Ford has successfully introduced its mechanical EcoBoost option.However, do not rejoice too quickly, because it is only the Limited has the right to biturbo engine.Developing 355 horsepower and 350 foot-pounds of torque, the 3.5 liter V6 EcoBoost is Ford Flex 2013 crossover the most powerful currently available on the market. EcoBosst technology offers the power of a V8 and the fuel economy of a V6. In addition, thanks to its high ground clearance and Intelligent AWD, Ford Flex 2013 can easily leave the beaten track.
Overall, the Ford Flex 2013 has no major defects. However, the competition is increasingly fierce in the field of crossovers. Ford will have, sooner or later, present a new Ford Flex 2013.

Ford Flex 2013 News  


Ford Flex 2013: Attach With Pleasure
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Sunday, October 27, 2013

Ford Atlas Concept

 


You can expect the next F150 to look a lot like the extra-rugged Atlas concept. What has us most excited, though, is that well see some of the concepts nifty features on a real truck soon. Active grille shutters, a drop-down lower air deflector, and active wheel shutters help improve fuel efficiency, while LED floodlamps on the side mirrors and in the bed help light up a job site through the night. The tailgate step now doubles as a cradle for long cargo, and it even has a trailer backup assistant. We cant wait until these ideas become a showroom reality.


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Saturday, October 26, 2013

2011 Ford Fusion Price of 19 720

The 2011 Ford Fusion is the latest version of 2011 Ford. The well-rounded 2011 Ford Fusion is one of our top picks for a midsize family sedan. The 2011 Ford Fusion is available at a price of of $19,720 - $28,645 and the Invoice price of $18,476 - $26,310.

Upon beginning, the  2011 Ford Fusion I-4 S FWD is prepared with a standard 2.5-liter, I4, 175-horsepower engine that achieves 22-mpg in the city and 31-mpg on the highway. A  2011 Ford Fusion has 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional.

The  2011 Ford Fusion V6 SPORT AWD is equipped with a standard 3.5-liter, V6, 263-horsepower engine that achieves 17-mpg in the city and 24-mpg on the highway. A  2011 Ford Fusion has 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard. Thats how it is with the 2011 Ford Fusion. Earlier incarnations of the Fusion already had the basics down, including a pleasant driving demeanor, a comfortable ride and a high level of overall refinement. The well-rounded 2011 Ford Fusion is one of our top picks for a midsize family sedan. Blind-spot mirrors and the MyKey system are standard for all trim levels, while one-touch up/down front windows, HD radio and additional power adjustments for the front seats are found on the upper trims. Other changes include a new Luxury package and a standard manual-shift feature for the six-speed automatic transmission.

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Thursday, October 24, 2013

Ford Atlas Concept

 
 
 
 
 
 
  • Ford Atlas Concept, 2013

Ford unveiled the Ford Atlas Concept to showcase the design, capability, fuel efficiency and smart technologies that will define future pickup trucks.

"The Ford Atlas Concept previews the innovations that will transform what people expect from their pickup," said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. "With 36 years as Americas best-selling pickup, we are absolutely committed to setting the agenda in the truck market."

Design with purpose
The Ford Atlas Concept is inspired by decades of listening to customers at the places they work and play. The result is a purpose-driven design with prominent wheel arches, a wide stance and chiseled grille - all to reinforce its functional Built Ford Tough® image.

"We wanted the concept to reflect how Ford trucks help customers in both their worlds - professionally and personally," said J Mays, Ford group vice president and chief creative officer. "Every surface and feature in the vehicle has been crafted for purpose and capability while retaining an unmistakable Built Ford Tough look."

Designers enhanced truck functionality, while creating new advanced features(see infographic here). For example, multiple tie-down points are integrated within the cargo box walls and load floor, along with 110-volt electrical outlets in the cargo box to charge power tools. An integrated roof carrying system and hidden extendable ramps give the truck unique functionality for a variety of jobs.

The interior is themed with structural styling cues and features the latest thinking in comfort, utility and refinement. Innovative, thin, lightweight seating in comfortable leather allows for extra legroom for rear passengers - along with integrated storage for smaller items. "Floating" instrument pods and glove-friendly buttons and controls keep the interior functional and ruggedly stylish.

Leading fuel efficiency
The Ford Atlas Concept features a next-generation EcoBoost® powertrain, which introduces truck-enhanced Auto Start-Stop engine shutoff technology. Auto Start-Stop shuts off the engine when stopped in traffic to save fuel - and smartly suspends the feature when the truck knows it is towing.

EcoBoost engines use gasoline direct injection and turbocharging to deliver fuel-economy gains of up to 20 percent and reduction of CO2 emissions of up to 15 percent, compared with larger-displacement engines. More than 500,000 EcoBoost engines have been sold globally, including 250,000 in the Ford F-150.

The Ford Atlas Concept goes further to save fuel through a combination of active aerodynamic elements that reduce wind resistance. They are:
  •     Active Grille Shutters: Automatic shutters behind the grille stay open when extra engine cooling is needed, such as during low-speed stop-and-go driving or while working in hot weather. The shutters automatically close to improve aerodynamics when cruising on the highway at steady speeds
  •     Active Wheel Shutters: Automatic shutters in the wheels are hidden to improve style at rest and low speeds, but automatically close at highway speeds to improve aerodynamics. Self-charging batteries use energy from the wheels motion to power the shutters
  •     Drop-Down Front Air Dam: A drop-down front wind spoiler lowers at highway speeds to improve underbody airflow. The air dam is raised at low speeds to improve ground clearance - helpful for off-roading
  •     Power Running Boards: Auto-deploying running boards help passengers enter the truck at rest and tuck up against the truck when it is moving to improve aerodynamics and ground clearance

The combination of these fuel-saving features saves more than 2 mpg on the highway without diminishing towing or hauling capability.

Work and play smarter, not harder
Ford Atlas Concept is a rolling showcase of features that improve capability, durability and productivity to meet the diverse needs of pickup truck owners. Features:
  •     Dual-Purpose Tailgate Step and Cargo Cradle: The acclaimed Ford Tailgate Step goes a step further by adding the ability to also act as a cargo cradle - lifting and holding extra-long cargo items above the truck and freeing valuable bed spaceTrailer Backup Assist: This segment-first innovation allows drivers to back a trailer with the twist of a knob. Ford research shows that backing a trailer is often the most intimidating task a truck customer can face
  •     Dynamic Hitch Assist: Hitching a trailer can be time consuming and difficult. Dynamic Hitch Assist helps precisely line up the trucks hitch with the trailer coupling, eliminating maneuvering guesswork by showing visual cues in the trucks center display screen
  •     360-Degree Point-of-View Camera: A Ford truck first, the system gives a birds-eye view of the truck to help position the vehicle in tight places or when there are obstacles near the truck - such as on a busy job site or grocery store parking lot
  •     LED Headlamps and Taillamps: Advanced LED lighting offers better road illumination than conventional halogen or HID lights and lasts longer. LED lamps also offer near-instant response, giving valuable extra warning time for following traffic
  •     LED Cargo Box and Side Mirror Lighting: Advanced, powerful yet efficient LED lighting brightly lights the cargo box and job site after the sun goes down with minimal battery drain compared to standard headlights or plug-in lights
  •     Hidden Cargo Ramps: Lightweight, durable loading ramps stowed below the cargo box can be quickly removed and set up to assist with loading wheeled items into the bed - from landscaping equipment to dirt bikes
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