Pearson Ford

October 14, 2010-The Ford Fiesta, Ford's top-selling car in Europe-continues to go from strength-to-strength. In September, the 850,000th Ford Fiesta was sold in Europe, just two years after the latest generation model was launched.

Another major Fiesta milestone was reached at the start of October, when global sales of the model surpassed the one million mark. Fiesta is now available on five continents, and is manufactured in five Ford production facilities around the world, including Cologne, Germany and Valencia, Spain.

Ford of Europe's strongest product range ever helped the company to maintain its firm position as Europe's No.2 best-selling passenger car brand in September and for the first nine months of 2010. Ford was also No.2 European brand for both passenger and commercial vehicle sales in September.

This success comes despite continued and heavy competitive discounting, coupled with the lowest September year-to-date industry volume across Ford's traditional 19 European markets since 1995.
Ford also maintained market leadership in the UK, Denmark, Hungary, Ireland and Turkey, and was the No.1 imported brand in Italy and the Czech Republic year-to-date.

Total European new car sales declined for the sixth month in September, down by 7.5 per cent to 1,407,600 units, the lowest September level in the Euro 19 markets since 1998.  Ford expects total industry sales to reach between 14.5 and 15.0 million units in 2010, down from 15.9 million last year.

"Ford remains one of the strongest players in the European auto industry. Our product-led strategy in Europe is successful, and we're sticking to it," said Ingvar Sviggum, Ford of Europe's vice president of Marketing, Sales and Service. "Ford's plan is to stay competitive and retain a strong presence in Europe despite the declining market. This is best achieved by balancing revenue, volume, market expense, and by building our overall brand reputation.

"It's even more important today to offer customers high quality, safe, smart and environmentally friendly products that they really want. The response to our range of new vehicles, including the new C-MAX family, the new Mondeo and the new Focus that we are launching through the balance of 2010 and into early next year, gives us great confidence moving forward", Mr Sviggum added.

Ford registered sales of 127,500 new vehicles - 24,600 units or 16.2 per cent lower on September 2009. Market share in these markets was 9.1 per cent for the month, 0.9 percentage points down on September 2009. Market share increased in five out of Ford's traditional 19 European markets in September.

Ford's traditional 19 European markets year-to-date
For September year-to-date, 1,003,600 new Ford vehicles were registered ? a decrease of 93,100 units or 8.5 per cent from last year. Year-to-date September market share in Ford's traditional 19 European markets was 8.6 per cent, down 0.6 percentage points on the same period in 2009. Ford's share increased in four of its traditional 19 European markets in the first nine months of 2010.

All 51 European markets in September and year-to-date
Ford of Europe sold 151,000 new vehicles in September across all its 51 markets, a reduction of 14.8 per cent, or 26,100 vehicles, on the same month 2009. For the year-to-date, 1,175,600 new Ford vehicles have been registered, representing a reduction of 86,300 compared to the same period in 2009. Ford sales were 6.9 per cent lower compared to 2009.

September sales highlights
Market Performance:

• No.2 best-selling passenger car brand in September in Europe. Also no.2 best-selling brand for total vehicles.
• Market leader in the UK, Hungary and Turkey for the month.
• Ford's share in its main 19 European markets was 9.1 per cent for September, 0.9 ppts below last year.
• Increased share in five of Ford's main 19 European markets.
• Ford's volume in France was down by 1,700 units versus September last year to 10,200, while market share fell slightly by 0.6 ppts to 4.9 per cent.
• Ford was again No.1 imported brand in Italy for both passenger cars and total vehicles.  
• Switzerland's September volume of 1,400 was up 400 units or 34 per cent on September 2009.  Market share of 5.9 per cent was 1.4 ppts higher ? the highest September share improvement of all Ford's traditional 19 European markets in September.
• Highest share gains in the traditional 19 European region were delivered in Greece (up 3.3 ppts; market share at 9.7 per cent, the highest since 1993, making the country No.1 passenger car brand for the month), Switzerland (up 1.4 ppts; share at 5.9 per cent, the second best September share since 2000) and Norway (up 1 ppts, at 10.4 per cent, the highest September share sine 1995).

Model Performance:

• Fiesta (39,400), Focus (25,100), and Transit (14,800) were Ford of Europe's three top-selling vehicles.
• Fiesta was also the best-selling foreign vehicle for the month in Italy.
• Since its market debut in October 2008, one million customers have purchased the Fiesta around the world, with 850,000 cars being sold in Europe.  
• Kuga sales of 7,600 were up 700 units or 10.1 per cent on 2009 and the highest September volume and share since launch in February 2008.
• S-MAX and Transit had another strong month in September, with S-MAX sales soaring by 9.1 per cent; and Transit Connect by 14.7 per cent versus September 2009.
• C-MAX and S-MAX were the top-selling imported products in their segments in France.
• Retail sales accounted for 76 per cent of Ka, 69 per cent of Fiesta, 63 per cent of Fusion, and 61 per cent of Kuga sales in September 2010.

September year-to-date 2010 performance
Market Performance:

• No.2 top-selling passenger car brand in Europe year-to-date.  
• Market leader in the UK, Denmark, Ireland, Hungary and Turkey.  
• Ford's share increased in four of its main 19 European markets.
• In France, registrations slightly decreased to 103,300, down by 5,100 units or 4.7 per cent lower on 2009.
• Year-to-date September sales volume in Spain rose to 74,300, up by 9.5 per cent or 6,500 on the same period 2009 ? the highest September YTD volume improvement in Ford's five major markets (Britain, France, Germany, Italy and Spain).
• Leading import brand in the Czech Republic and Italy for the nine months of 2010.
• In the nine months of 2010, Switzerland reported a volume of 13,800, up by 2,000 units or an increase of 16.8 per cent on the same period 2009 and the highest year-to-date September volume there since 2001. Share of 5.8 per cent, up by 0.4 ppts on year-to-date September 2009, was the best September year-to-date share since 1999.
• Scandinavian markets continued to perform well in the nine months of 2010. Sweden had registrations of 15,500, up by 4,600 units, an increase of 42.1 per cent on 2009 and the highest year-to-date volume improvement in all of Ford's 19 markets. In Norway registrations rose 2,500 units or 31 per cent to 10,700. Denmark's sales volume was at 12,300, up by 2,800 or an increase of 29.2 per cent on the nine months of 2009, the highest September year-to-date volume since 2007.
• The highest share gains of all 19 markets in the nine months of 2010 were in Switzerland (+0.4 ppts at 5.8 per cent share), Sweden (+0.3 ppts to 6.5 per cent, the highest YTD September share since 2002), and Greece (+0.3 ppts each to 7.3 per cent, the best September year-to-date share there since 2007).
• Year-to-date 2010, Turkey's share was at 15.5 per cent, up by 0.7 ppts on the same period 2009.

Model Performance:

• The three best-selling vehicles year-to-date 2010 were the Fiesta (322,900), Focus (201,700) and Transit (97,300).
• In the nine months of 2010, Fiesta remained the best-selling foreign vehicle in Italy.
• 79,000 new Ford Ka vehicles have been delivered to Ford customers this year, slightly down by 1,100 units or 1.4 per cent on the nine months of 2009. Ka share was the best since 2002.
• Kuga has been a hit with customers in the nine months of 2010 with sales of 55,500, up by 10,000 or 22 per cent on the nine months of 2009 ? the highest volume improvement of a Ford vehicle in the main 19 markets year-to-date September 2010 and the best year-to-date September volume and share for Kuga since launch in February 2008.
• Ford segment-leading in the UK with Fiesta, Focus and Galaxy year-to-date.
• C-MAX and S-MAX were the best-selling foreign vehicles in their segment in France.
• Fiesta remained No.1 best-selling car in the UK year-to-date, while Transit was the best-selling commercial vehicle year-to-date 2010.

• Best-in-class 302 horsepower at 6,500 rpm vs. V6 competitors
• Unsurpassed 278 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm vs. V6 competitors
• Projected best-in-class fuel economy
• Best-in-class 6,100 pounds maximum trailer tow vs. V6 competitors

• Best-in-class 360 horsepower at 5,500 rpm vs. standard V8 competitors
• Best-in-class 380 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,250 rpm vs. standard V8 competitors
• Best-in-class 10,000 pounds maximum trailer tow vs. standard V8 competitors

• Best-in-class 411 horsepower at 5,500 rpm vs. all competitors
• Best-in-class 434 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm vs. all competitors
• Best-in-class 11,300 pounds maximum trailer tow vs. all competitors

• 365 horsepower at 5,000 rpm on regular fuel
• Best-in-class 420 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,500 rpm vs. premium V8 competitors
• Up to 90 percent of peak torque available from 1,700 rpm to 5,000 rpm
• Best-in-class 11,300 pounds maximum trailer tow vs. all competitors
• Best-in-class 3,060 pounds payload vs. all competitors

DEARBORN, Mich., Aug. 26, 2010 - The Ford Transit Connect and Ford E-Series van are joining Geek Squad as part of Best Buy's continuing efforts to build a more fuel-efficient fleet and streamlined transportation system.

Best Buy® - an international leader in consumer electronics and entertainment - will soon take delivery of 290 Ford Transit Connect compact utility vans and 738 Ford E-Series vans. The Transit Connects will be used instead of larger cargo vans by Geek Squad technicians who deliver, install and service home appliances. The E-Series vans will be used by those who install and service home theater equipment.

"We appreciate Best Buy's business and confidence in our commercial van lineup," said Len Deluca, director, Ford Commercial Truck Sales and Marketing. "The combination of Transit Connect and E-Series provides a wide range of utilization that will help Best Buy meet its customers' needs."

Ford Transit Connect provides utility and fuel efficiency

According to Jason Pucely, senior manager, Best Buy Fleet Operations, the selection of the Ford Transit Connect was dictated in many ways by the company's new operating model, which drives to deliver superior client service through more efficient scheduling, inventory management and transportation systems.

"We're streamlining all of our activities," he explained. "We've developed a more effective routing system, and we're more efficient with the tools and parts we carry when we do our work. That has enabled us to put the same technician doing the same work in a smaller, lighter vehicle."

Pucely says the Ford Transit Connect offers the functionality Geek Squad technicians require to get their work done, while not compromising on some of the space requirements that a full-size cargo van offers.

In addition to the cost and environmental benefits, Pucely foresees other advantages.

"Our technicians typically carry diagnostic equipment, motors and other electronic parts, so having the side access panels will make it easier for them to get to the equipment they need," he said.

The unique appearance of the Ford Transit Connect promises to be an added bonus, says Pucely.

"A distinctive vehicle has been part of the history of Geek Squad in the marketplace," he said. "We value our fleet as a tool to enhance our brand messaging, and the Transit Connect will certainly help in that effort."

All of the vehicles will carry the familiar Geek Squad branding - black-and-white with the orange-and-black Geek Squad logo.

Ford E-Series vans provide functionality and improved fuel efficiency for larger jobs

While Ford Transit Connect provides an ideal solution for Geek Squad technicians who service home appliances, a full-size cargo van is essential for those who install and service home theater equipment. With fuel efficiency a priority, Best Buy opted to purchase 738 Ford E-Series vans with smaller - 4.6-liter - displacement V8 engines that provide better fuel economy than its current vans with larger engines.

"Home theater equipment is large, and it requires the space of a full-size van," said Pucely. "But our technicians can do the same amount of work using a vehicle with a smaller engine, which is less expensive to run and burns less fuel."

Ford Motor Company and Best Buy: Teaming up in other ways Ford recently teamed up with Best Buy to ensure consumers have a great experience learning about and using Ford industry-leading SYNC® system. Best Buy Mobile offers thousands of specially trained associates to assist with Ford SYNC mobile device/phone compatibility and basic feature setup, and SYNC training for consumers.

Best Buy also includes Ford SYNC mobile device/phone compatibility results in its monthly Best Buy Mobile Buyer's Guide to identify which of the latest mobile devices work seamlessly with Ford SYNC. The ratings are based on phone compatibility tests conducted by Best Buy's Geek Squad and are updated frequently. The SYNC ratings also can be found at www.syncmyride.com.

In addition, Best Buy is the primary sponsor of the No. 43 Best Buy/Insignia Ford Fusion of Richard Petty Motorsports in the NASCAR Sprint Cup series. The Fusion is driven by A.J. Allmendinger. In August, Best Buy and Ford will launch a national sweepstakes focused around the all-new 2011 Ford Fiesta, the Insignia television brand, Richard Petty, Allmendinger and Ford's Rally America and X Games Fiesta driver Ken Block.

"The economic impact of the new Explorer will benefit hundreds of American communities," said Mark Fields, Ford president of The Americas. "Not only does the new Explorer change the game for SUVs, it will help boost the American economy by fueling jobs and new investments."

The new Explorer will be produced at Ford's Chicago Assembly Plant later this year as a result of a $400 million investment that is adding 1,200 new jobs at the plant. 

Key suppliers to the Explorer are investing in new facilities, adding shifts and hiring for more than 600 jobs in Michigan, Indiana and Illinois.  

Each automotive job is estimated to generate an additional 10 indirect jobs, according to the Center for Automotive Research data. That means Explorer could help create up to 12,000 new jobs overall.

"Suppliers across the country are stepping up to the challenge of building the next Explorer," said Tony Brown, group vice president, Ford Global Purchasing. "There are more than 100 companies in 23 states that will produce parts and components for the 2011 Explorer and hundreds more indirect suppliers beyond that."

Suppliers adding jobs come from across Ford's supply base and include members of the company's minority- and women-owned business groups. They include:

• Dakkota Integrated Systems (fascia and headliners), adding jobs in Illinois and Michigan
• Johnson Controls (door trim panels and fascia components), adding jobs in Michigan
• Key Safety Systems (restraints), adding jobs in Michigan
• Lear Corporation (seats), adding jobs in Indiana
• NYX (interior hard-trim), adding jobs in Michigan
• Piston Automotive (cooling modules), adding jobs in Illinois
• Tower Automotive (body stampings), adding jobs in Illinois
• ZF Lemforder (chassis modules), adding jobs in Illinois

American workers also will benefit from Explorer's popularity overseas. The iconic SUV is Ford's most exported North American product and has helped secure U.S. jobs in a time of economic turmoil. 

The new Explorer is expected to maintain that leading export role as the company raises expectations for U.S. sales based on the vehicle's outstanding combination of fuel efficiency, capability, safety and technology. The new Explorer will be exported to up to 90 countries, assisting with Ford's overall efforts to increase exports from North America.  This also supports President Barack Obama's goal of doubling U.S. exports during the next five years.

Ford is revealing the all-new Explorer on Monday in a variety of ways to introduce as many audiences as possible to the reinvented SUV, including extensive use of social media. 

The new Explorer goes on sale this winter. It will feature class-leading fuel economy - with an improvement of more than 30 percent versus the current Explorer - plus industry-first safety features, such as inflatable rear seat belts and Curve Control, as well as cutting-edge technology innovations like MyFord Touch? and world-class craftsmanship.

DEARBORN, Mich., July 15, 2009 -Ford received five segment awards, more than any other brand, in J.D. Power and Associates' 2010 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study. The closely watched survey measures customer satisfaction in design, content, and vehicle performance.

In June, the Ford brand achieved the highest initial quality among all non-luxury brands in J.D. Power and Associates 2010 Initial Quality Study (IQS). For the second consecutive year Ford was the only non-premium brand to achieve above industry average scores in both J.D. Power's IQS and APEAL studies.

In this year's APEAL survey, owners of the 2010 Ford Fusion, Taurus, Flex, Expedition and Explorer Sport Trac, rated these vehicles highest in their respective segments for vehicle appeal, which is comprised of style, comfort, performance and other vehicle attributes.

"It's a significant accomplishment to do so well in APEAL on the heels of receiving high marks from J.D. Power on initial quality," said Bennie Fowler, group vice president, Global Quality and New Model Launches. "The APEAL results stand as another proof point that Ford is redefining quality. We know it's not enough to build defect-free cars and trucks. We move to the next step by delivering an experience that exceeds our customers' expectations with features they would expect to find only in high-priced luxury lines."

APEAL surveys customers on what they like about the performance, execution and layout of their new vehicle after the first three months it is in service. Customers rate their level of "gratification" on a variety of vehicle attributes, including safety, fuel economy, cargo space, roominess and exterior styling.

"At Ford, we are accelerating the development of vehicles customers will fall in love with at first sight and grow even fonder of over time," said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. "To deliver on that promise, our goal is nothing less than product excellence in design, feature content, safety and quality at an exceptional value."

Since "gratification" is difficult to define and even harder to measure, Ford looked for new ways to understand how customers define it. Researchers combed through surveys, looked at historical trends and studied customer satisfaction rates. They spoke with people who recommended Ford to their friends, and to those who dismissed the brand out of hand. By discovering what makes customers feel good about their cars, Ford was able to develop customer-driven standards-Ford's product DNA.

This strict set of guidelines is designed and built into every vehicle for a consistent feel and sound that is unmistakably Ford.

This "emotional engineering," which focuses on the senses of sight, sound and touch, is helping Ford deliver vehicles that are satisfying to own and drive.

To add structure to the efforts to build in a Ford DNA strategy and increase customer satisfaction, Ford focuses its quality efforts in three main categories:

• Basic quality - the fundamental reliability of a vehicle.
• Performance quality - includes attributes such as fuel economy and quietness
• Excitement quality - those unexpected convenience features that surprise and delight the customers.

Ford is working to extend customer quality satisfaction beyond durability and functionality to excitement quality - the parts of the vehicle that surprise and delight. Excitement quality includes features from seats specially designed for comfort, to materials and surfaces that look good and feel right, and interiors with ambiance and innovative exterior paints.

The ownership experience is also enhanced by features such as MyFordTouch in-car connectivity technology, multi-contoured massaging seats, changeable ambient interior lighting, and refined sound quality.

"When applying the three categories of quality, it's never about either/or; it's all three," said Kuzak. "We're still consumed with basic quality, but we're now also very focused on providing appeal and excitement to meet customers' desires."

July 14, 2010 - The 2011 Ford Edge now will officially offer the best fuel economy with the most power along with class-exclusive technology, dynamic design and improved craftsmanship.

The 2011 Ford Edge SEL and Limited, which account for about 80 percent of all Edge sales, are now EPA-estimated at 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway (front-wheel drive), which is unsurpassed in each category. The new Edge is now 1 mpg better city and 2 mpg better highway - with even greater power. The standard 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 285 horsepower, best-in-class among V6 competitors and 20 more horsepower than the outgoing Edge.

"Providing class-leading fuel economy and power are two of many examples of the improved attributes customers will find in the 2011 Edge," said Elaine Bannon, Edge chief engineer. "The new Edge demonstrates how a refresh at Ford is much more than just a few tweaks. It's reworking all the elements, adding more content and improving the look and feel of the vehicle."

Earning your first driver's license is a milestone event for a teenager.

It can also be one of the most dangerous times in their young life.

Traffic accidents are the leading cause of death for people ages 15 to 20 with nearly 6,000 teens killed each year in vehicle crashes. Ford Driving Skills for Life (DFSL) is a teen safety program designed to help reduce those numbers by teaching new drivers essential skills in key areas that contribute to more than half of all teen crashes. At a recent event in Columbus, Ohio, students learned about distracted driving and hazard recognition, vehicle handling, space management and speed control.

"We are excited that more than 400 teens in Ohio enrolled in this critical hands-on training with professional driving instructors," said Jim Graham, Community Relations Manager, Ford Motor Company Fund. "This innovative program and the tools it provides are saving lives."

During the Ford DSFL program, teen drivers learn advanced safe-driving skills on a course that reflects the dangerous realities of reckless driving, speeding, maneuvering around obstacles, skid control, recovery and in-car hazards. The specially equipped course and vehicles let the teen drivers experience the worst the road has to offer in a safe, controlled environment.

"It's about preparing our teens for a lifetime of safe driving," said Jim Clay, Westfield Insurance. "Ford's program is excellent and we're happy to be a partner."

Ford DSFL Ride and Drive events take place throughout the year in locations across the United States. In addition to hands-on lessons, there is an interactive web site www.drivingskillsforlife.com that includes a learning module, quizzes, games and car care videos.

Kelley Blue Book's top five pickups for the
2010 model year

1. Ford F-150

2. 2010 Ram 1500

3. Chevrolet Silverado 1500

4. Toyota Tundra

5. Nissan Titan

Information from Detroit Free Press

NEW YORK, June, 22, 2010 - Ford Motor Company won the "Business Turnaround of the Year for Companies with More Than 2,500 Employees" at the 2010 American Business Awards, which were held here Monday night at the Marriott Marquis Hotel.

The award recognizes the Company's efforts to turn the corner in 2009 in the face of a global economic and financial crisis, as well as unprecedented events in the U.S. automotive industry.

Ford posted the first full year of positive net income since 2005, and a $17.5 billion improvement over 2008. Ford also gained market share in the U.S. in 2009 for the first time in 14 years despite increasing competition for buyers.

The awards are judged by more than 200 executives from across the country who evaluate more than 2,700 entries. The winners are presented annually to the best entries in 40 different categories, including management, customer service, marketing, human resources, communications, information technology and sales.

The awards were established in 2002 to raise awareness of the positive contributions of companies and business people. The honor is also known as the "Stevie" award. Stevie is taken from the name Stephen, which is derived from the Greek word for "crowned."

Stevie Awards are conferred in four programs: The American Business Awards, The International Business Awards, the Stevie Awards for Women in Business, and the Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service. Honoring companies of all types and sizes and the people behind them, the Stevies recognize outstanding performances in the workplace worldwide. Learn more about The Stevie Awards at: www.stevieawards.com

Keeping with Ford's commitment to the environment, the company is launching a voluntary Go Green initiative for Ford and Lincoln Mercury dealers. The program makes it easier for dealers to reduce their carbon footprints and improve the energy efficiency of their operations.

Ford is working with Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) - an organization recognized as a leader in providing energy-efficiency solutions to businesses, communities and organizations around the world - at three dealerships in diverse climates.

The Go Green dealer sustainability initiative is fully integrated into Ford's existing architecture to provide dealers with the ability to improve energy efficiency and lower operating costs.

This program is a great fit for Ford dealers because it provides a variety of energy-efficient improvement options regardless of the current age and design of the facility. This allows all dealers the opportunity to participate in improving the energy efficiency of their facility and gives them flexibility in making choices that are right for them and their dealerships.

Dealers interested in participating in the Go Green Dealership Sustainability Program will first receive a comprehensive energy assessment from sustainability experts at Ford. After the thorough assessment is completed, Ford and the dealer will collaborate on energy-saving options available and will tailor a program to meet the needs of the dealer. Solutions are wide-ranging and can be implemented for dealers with existing facilities, as well as dealers who are constructing new facilities.

Dealers who participate in the program will be able to take advantage of several benefits, including guidance on available state and federal tax credits and incentives, as well as access to technical expertise and resources to assist with selection of energy-efficient products and equipment.

Information from www.ford.com

• Ford tells top fleet customers it will introduce a new compressed natural gas (CNG) and propane (LPG, or liquefied petroleum gas) engine prep package for its 6.8-liter F-450 and
  F-550 Super Duty chassis cabs later this year
• The F-450 and F-550 offerings expand the breadth of Ford's CNG/LPG-capable commercial and government fleet lineup, including E-Series and - coming later this year - the 2011 Transit Connect, F-53 motor home chassis and new F-59 commercial strip chassis
• Ford has shipped more than 3,000 E-Series vans with CNG/LPG engine prep packages since last November
• CNG and LPG burn cleaner than gasoline, resulting in reduced greenhouse gas emissions

DEARBORN, Mich., June 7, 2010 - Ford today told some 500 North American fleet customers that it will begin offering an alternative-fuels engine prep package for its 6.8-liter F-450 and F-550 Super Duty chassis cab.

At the annual Ford Fleet Product and Business Conference in Dearborn, Ford presented details of the conversion option, which will become available this fall and enables the use of efficient, clean-burning compressed natural gas (CNG) or propane (LPG, or liquefied petroleum gas).

F-450 and F-550 Super Duty are Ford's latest commercial vehicles to get the alternative-fuel conversion option. Since introducing the option to E-Series and other commercial fleet vehicles last fall, Ford has shipped some 3,000 E-Series vans with CNG/LPG-prepped 5.4-liter and 6.8-liter gas engines to fleet operators such as Verizon and Schwan's Home Delivery Service.

Ford also offers the package on its Transit Connect, including its new Taxi offering with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gas engine. This fall, Ford also will add CNG/LPG capability to the F-53 motor home chassis and new F-59 commercial strip chassis.

The alt-fuel advantage
F-450 and F-550's 6.8-liter V-10 engine is well suited to CNG/LPG conversion. The engine comes with hardened exhaust valves and valve seats for improved wear resistance and durability for gaseous fuel systems.

CNG and LPG are increasingly popular choices for fleet operators looking to cut fuel cost and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. According to the EPA, CNG is less expensive and burns cleaner than gasoline, resulting in reduced CO2 emissions. Propane also burns cleaner than gasoline.

"Compressed natural gas and propane offer more than sufficient power for vehicles because they are high-energy fuels," said Rob Stevens, commercial vehicle chief engineer. "Other natural benefits for these fuels are overall lower emissions of greenhouse gases compared to gasoline and lower fuel/operating costs for their fleet."

Nearly 87 percent of natural gas used in the United States is domestically produced. There also are government tax credit incentives for fleets to convert to alternative fuels.

Ford provides calibration guidance to numerous highly competitive CNG and LPG upfitters for E-Series, F-Series and Transit Connect. By following Ford recommendations published in the Body Builders Advisory Service QVM Bulletin Q-185, the converted vehicle maintains its factory engine warranty.

Ford fleet leadership
Ford, the industry leader in commercial and government fleet sales, is the only manufacturer to offer 100 percent of its fleet vehicles this year with fuel-efficient powertrains and other sustainable technologies - including battery-electric, hybrid, natural gas, propane, E85, biodiesel and EcoBoost? - making the Blue Oval the industry's greenest full-line fleet provider.

In 2009, Ford commanded the largest share of commercial and government fleet sales, with 32 percent and 44 percent, respectively.

Ford F-Series, Fusion, Escape, Taurus, Econoline and Ranger were the sales leaders in their respective commercial segments. F-Series, Crown Victoria and Econoline also were the top three sellers in the government fleet sector.

"Fleet customers are turning to Ford because our comprehensive product lineup provides solutions for virtually every need," said Kevin Koswick, director of Ford North American Fleet, Leasing and Remarketing Operations. "The quality, class-leading fuel economy and strong resale values of our vehicles provide a compelling value proposition."

Information from www.ford.com

• Ford, Lincoln and Mercury April sales totaled 162,996, up 25 percent versus year ago; retail sales were up 32 percent, and fleet sales were up 13 percent
• Ford brand sales up 26 percent versus year ago, Lincoln up 22 percent and Mercury up 19 percent
• Ford cars up 10 percent versus year ago, utilities up 33 percent and trucks up 38 percent
• Ford Fusion, Escape, Flex and Transit Connect set sales records
• Ford, Lincoln and Mercury year-to-date sales totaled 591,592, up 34 percent versus year ago
• Ford gains retail market share for the 18th time in the last 19 months, as more buyers turn to Ford's fresh lineup of high-quality, fuel-efficient vehicles

Download Full Sales Release (With Tables)

DEARBORN, Mich., May 3, 2010 - Ford continued to post strong sales and market share gains in April, with Ford, Lincoln and Mercury dealers delivering 162,996 new vehicles in April - a 25 percent increase versus a year ago. It marks the fifth month in a row Ford sales have increased more than 20 percent. Year-to-date sales totaled 591,592, up 34 percent.    

In April, Ford retail sales were up 32 percent versus a year ago, and Ford gained retail market share for the 18th time in the last 19 months. Fleet sales were up 13 percent. Ford is benefiting from a fresh lineup of new, high-quality, fuel-efficient vehicles delivering industry-leading levels of safety and smart design.

"Customers are benefitting from our strong new product lineup," said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing Sales and Service. "Our laser focus on quality and dependability is increasing Ford resale values at a higher rate than the overall industry, bringing real value to Ford customers at trade-in time and driving industry-leading customer satisfaction and higher market share."

On average, resale values of Ford vehicles have increased 23 percent versus last year, outpacing the industry average by 4 percentage points, according to the latest North American Dealers Association auction data. Ford vehicles now have the fewest number of defects of any full-line manufacturer and the highest customer satisfaction with vehicle quality among all major automakers, according to a first quarter study by RDA Group of Bloomfield Hills, Mich.

Once again, sales were higher throughout Ford's lineup in April - continuing a trend that began in December. Cars were up 10 percent versus a year ago, utilities were up 33 percent, and trucks were up 38 percent. Among brands, Ford sales were up 26 percent, Lincoln sales were up 22 percent and Mercury sales were up 19 percent.

Additional Sales Highlights

• Ford Fusion, Motor Trend's Car of the Year, set an April sales record of 18,971, up 4 percent versus the previous record set last year. Fusion has set monthly sales records in 12 of the last 13 months, and sales have been up 13 months in a row. Mercury Milan sales were up 36 percent, its sixth consecutive monthly sales increase.
• Ford Taurus sales totaled 6,166 in April, almost double year-ago levels (up 99 percent). Ford Focus sales were up 21 percent.
• With sales of 40,946, Ford's F-Series posted a 42 percent sales increase in April. Ford's leadership position in the truck market is strengthened by the arrival of the 2011 model F-Series Super Duty - the most capable, fuel-efficient heavy-duty pickup in the industry. In April, sales of the all-new 2011 Super Duty were more than double Ford's plan for the month. F-Series has been America's best-selling truck for 33 years in a row and best-selling vehicle (car or truck) for 28 years in a row. F-Series sales have increased five months in a row, and April's increase was the largest.
• Utility vehicles also posted strong sales increases. Ford Escape set an April sales record of 19,146, up 41 percent. Ford Edge sales were up 18 percent (its seventh straight monthly increase), Ford Flex sales were a record for April and up 22 percent, and Mercury Mariner sales were up 24 percent (its fourth monthly increase in a row). Sales for traditional SUVs (Ford Explorer, Mercury Mountaineer, Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator) also were higher than a year ago.
• Sales for Ford's E-Series van (Econoline/Club Wagon) were up 15 percent versus a year ago. E-Series has been America's best-selling full-size van for 31 years.
• Sales of the new Ford Transit Connect small commercial van totaled 2,229 in April - its highest sales month ever. ADT Security Services, the world's largest electronic security provider, plans to place an order for 3,000 Transit Connects, representing half of its North American fleet. This move will save ADT an estimated $5.3 million annually in fuel costs while reducing carbon emissions. In a separate announcement, the city of Boston last week became the first municipality in America to approve the Transit Connect cab for taxi use. Meanwhile, the production of the battery-electric Transit Connect begins later this year.
• The company's hybrid vehicles (Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner) posted sales of 2,726 in April, up 19 percent versus a year ago. Year-to-date, the company's hybrid sales totaled 9,742, up 55 percent. Ford has sold approximately 130,000 hybrid vehicles in the U.S. and is America's largest domestic hybrid company. In addition, Ford has sold more than 10,000 vehicles equipped with its V-6 EcoBoost engine technology.

# # #

Note: The sales data included in this release and the accompanying tables are based largely on data reported by dealers representing their sales to retail and fleet customers.

(Adds Ford CFO's comment in 11th paragraph.)

By Jeff Green and Angela Greiling Keane

March 25 (Bloomberg) -- Americans are turning against Toyota Motor Corp. after sudden-acceleration complaints forced it to recall more than 8 million vehicles worldwide, while Ford Motor Co. is the most popular automaker.

More than four in 10 Americans say they "would definitely not buy a Toyota," according to the Bloomberg National Poll. The Japanese company is viewed unfavorably by 36 percent of those interviewed, the highest negative rating in the survey, while fewer than half -- 49 percent -- have a favorable impression.

Ford, the only U.S. automaker that didn't seek a federal rescue, is seen favorably by 77 percent of those surveyed, topping No. 2 Honda Motor Co. by seven percentage points. General Motors Co., eight months after getting U.S. aid to survive, has a positive rating of 57 percent.

The results show the challenge faced by Toyota, which in 2008 passed GM to become the world's largest automaker, as it tries to regain consumer confidence, said Rebecca Lindland, an auto analyst at IHS Global Insight in Lexington, Massachusetts.

"In the short term, they need to focus on the people that have recently changed their minds about the company," Lindland said in an interview. "In the long term, it could be quite different. It depends on how much they've alienated the people that are, say, under 40."

'Ignored' Problem

The poll found that the older the respondent, the less likely they were to have a positive opinion of Toyota: 37 percent of people over 65 see the company favorably compared with 51 percent of those under 35.

The survey of 1,002 U.S. adults was conducted March 19-22 by Selzer & Co. of Des Moines, Iowa. It has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percentage points.

"Obviously we'd like to have our favorable much higher and our unfavorable much lower," said John Hanson, a spokesman for Toyota's North American sales unit in Torrance, California. "But it looks like our sales this month will be very strong."

The Toyota City, Japan-based company is using no-interest loans and lease discounts to coax back buyers after its U.S. sales dropped 12 percent in the first two months of this year. The incentives have helped boost sales as much as 44 percent in March from a year earlier, said Dave Cutting, senior manager of North American forecasting for J.D. Power & Associates.

Full-month sales may rise 37 percent, Cutting said. Jesse Toprak, vice president of industry researcher TrueCar.com, said he expects a 28 percent sales advance.

Declining Market Share

Toyota's share of U.S. vehicle sales in February fell to 12.8 percent from 15.9 percent a year earlier, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. Ford Chief Financial Officer Lewis Booth said "it's far too early" to say if those market share losses will be permanent.

"They're a formidable company with formidable resources and with a stellar track record of building their brand," Booth said yesterday in an interview. "You'd be foolish to count them out."

Toyota's American depositary receipts, each representing two ordinary shares, fell 51 cents to $81.07 at 12:05 p.m. in New York Stock Exchange trading. The company has lost $16.7 billion in market value since announcing a recall on Jan. 21.

U.S. lawmakers, regulators and safety advocates have accused Toyota of responding too slowly to complaints of sudden acceleration. Testimony before congressional committees included documents showing company managers bragged about money they saved by negotiating to ward off recalls.

Of the 44 percent of respondents who said they would definitely not buy a Toyota if they were buying a new car in the next year, 39 percent cited the recent recalls.

'Ignored It'

"They've known this problem existed and they've ignored it and managed to get their government buddies to ignore it," said poll respondent Ken Sorenson, 55, a disabled hazardous-waste worker from Corry, Pennsylvania. He is among those who said they definitely wouldn't buy a Toyota.

Ford, which avoided the bankruptcy that hit GM and Chrysler Group LLC, returned to profit last year and gained U.S. market share for the first time since 1995. Its market value has increased almost fivefold in the last 12 months.

"I look at Ford and I think of good products and stability," said respondent Torrey White, a 29-year-old sales representative in Chesapeake, Virginia, who drives a 2005 Ford Expedition. "Even with all of this bailout talk last year, Ford was standing tall."

White said he's positive about GM as well, because he wants to support American car companies.

'Headlines, Coverage'

"The headlines, the news coverage, influences overall reputation pretty significantly," Edmunds.com Chief Executive Officer Jeremy Anwyl said. "Ford has benefited from 12-plus months of favorable headlines and the opposite for Toyota."

GM has said it may return to profit this year, a year ahead of schedule.

Toyota's overall favorable rating ranked fifth behind Ford, Honda, Nissan Motor Co. and GM, and was about equal with those of Chrysler and Hyundai Motor Co., according to the Bloomberg survey. Toyota had the highest "very unfavorable" rate at 12 percent.

•  New 2011 Mustang GT vaults to the top of its class with final fuel economy certified by the EPA this week at 26 mpg highway and 17 mpg city
  

• The Mustang GT - carrying a 412-horsepower 5.0-liter V-8 engine and six-speed manual transmission - delivers incredible acceleration in addition to fuel economy, thanks in part to the flexibility of the six-speed manual transmission

• The entire Mustang lineup now achieves segment-leading fuel economy with the Mustang V-6 being the first car ever to deliver 305 hp and 31 mpg and the Mustang GT achieving best-in-class fuel economy of 26 mpg

DEARBORN, Mich., March 16, 2010 - The 2011 Ford Mustang GT, powered by a new 412-hp 5.0-liter V-8 engine, adds yet another notch to its belt: an EPA rating of 26 mpg highway when equipped with the six-speed manual transmission, giving it the best fuel economy in its class.

• 19 mpg city and 31 highway (automatic coupe)
• 19 mpg city and 29 highway (manual coupe)

• 18 mpg city and 25 highway (automatic coupe)
• 17 mpg city and 26 highway (manual coupe)

• New EPAS eliminates the drag of an engine-operated hydraulic power steering pump
• Combined with the new six-speed transmissions, standard 3.31 (manual) and 3.15 (automatic) rear axle ratios provide an ideal blend of relaxed cruising rpm and all-out acceleration
• Aerodynamic improvements include a new front fascia on the Mustang GT, tire spats on the rear wheels, modified underbody shields, a taller air dam and an added rear decklid seal

• Those snippets of advice consumers have been hearing for years and years might be outdated - or just plain wrong
• Consumers don't need to buy gas in the morning to save money, and you no longer need to get your oil changed every 3,000 miles. There may be other ways you're wasting money on your vehicle, too
• By implementing small changes, drivers could save up to $538 a year or $6,610 over the lifetime of their vehicle

DEARBORN, Mich., March 12, 2010 - They've been around awhile - a snippet of advice here, an old adage there. They're the guidelines that are supposed to help keep cars running in top condition. Problem is, most of them aren't based in fact - or they're just plain outdated.

Ford decided to debunk a few of the most popular maintenance myths, including the following:

• MYTH: Cars need oil changes every three months or 3,000 miles.
  False: That used to be true, but not with newer cars. Because of synthetic oils that don't break down as quickly, consumers actually don't need oil changes as often - more like every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. (There may be two recommendations for oil-change intervals: one for normal driving and one for hard use. Check your maintenance guide to be sure.)

  SAVE: Either way, there's a considerable savings here: Let's say you're an average consumer who drives 12,000 miles a year, which means you would need about four oil changes a year under the old formula. With the new extended mileage, consumers need only about two oil changes a year, cutting their bill for oil changes in half - you could pocket upward of $50 a year or $650 in the lifetime of your car and do something to help the environment by saving oil.

• MYTH: You need to let your vehicle engine warm up in cold weather.
  False: Your vehicle's engine only needs a warm-up period of about 10 seconds - you're actually the only one who may feel chilly. The engine warms up while you drive. Running your car any longer beforehand is just a waste of gas.

  SAVE: Depending on engine size, temperature and other variables, modern cars can use about a third of a gallon of gas per hour while idling. By giving up that 10-minute idle every weekday morning, you could save more than a gallon a month - $32 a year or $416 over the life of the vehicle.

• MYTH: Premium gas is a treat for your car.
  False: Unless your vehicle is specifically tailored to take advantage of the higher octane level in the fuel, you're wasting your money. Go by what is recommended in your owner's manual and leave it at that.
  

  SAVE: At current gas prices, drivers may save up to $150 a year by opting for unleaded gas instead of premium.

• MYTH: The number listed on the sidewall of your tire is the recommended tire pressure. False: In most cases, this is actually the maximum pressure allowed for that tire. The recommended amount of pressure is usually listed on the inside door panel - check your owner's manual to be sure.

  SAVE: The government estimates that the average driver's tires are underinflated by 26 percent. Generally, underinflated treads lower gas mileage about a half percent for each pound lacking when the pressure of all four tires is added up. An average driver with underinflated tires could add $79 a year to his or her fuel bill - or more than $1,027 in the lifetime of the vehicle. You could also save nearly half a barrel of crude oil per year by keeping your tires inflated to the manufacturer's recommended level. Per the EPA, one barrel of crude oil equals 42 gallons of gasoline.

• MYTH: Buy gas in the morning and you'll save money.
  False: The old adage was to fill up in the morning when gas was coolest and most dense because gas is sold by volume and you would get more gas for your buck.

  
  But gas is sold in underground, nonmetallic tanks that typically hold about 10,000 gallons, and it will take a lot of sunlight to raise the temperature even a degree. (However, pumping your gas when it's cooler does mean less release of vapors, which is better for the environment.)

  SAVE: Do your research before buying. Ford's SIRIUS Travel Link? sorts gas stations by price on the navigation screen, but Web sites like MSNAutos.com can also help drivers navigate to bargains. In our quick research, we found two gas stations in New York City - less than a mile apart - with 30 cents per gallon price difference. If you know before you go and fill up for less every time, it could result in $227 in your pocket annually, or $2,951 saved over the lifetime of your car.

All totaled, by implementing small changes, drivers could save up to $538 a year or $6,610 in the lifetime of their vehicle. In today's economy, every penny counts. That's why it's important to get the facts.

 


The all-new 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty features all-new diesel and gas powertrains that deliver best-in-class torque and horsepower as well as class-leading fuel economy

• The Ford F-Series Super Duty equipped with the 6.7-liter Power Stroke® V-8 turbocharged diesel engine averages an 18 percent improvement for pickup models and up to 25 percent improvement for chassis cabs versus 2010 models. Trucks equipped with new base 6.2-liter V-8 gas engine average a 15 percent improvement versus 2010 models
• The new diesel engine is B20 biodiesel compatible and the new gas engine is E85 compatible, providing customers a wide range of fueling options
• Best-in-class fuel economy and class-leading capability - towing of 26,400 pounds and a 6,520-pound payload - is due largely to the all-new 6R140 heavy-duty TorqShift® six-speed automatic transmission, providing more than half the overall improved fuel economy

ST. LOUIS, March 9, 2010 - The all-new 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty delivers best-in-class torque, horsepower, towing and payload capability - and does it all more efficiently, resulting in less fuel usage and extended maintenance intervals that can translate directly into bottom-line savings for customers.

"The 2011 Super Duty is not only the most powerful, most capable and fuel-efficient heavy-duty pickup truck on the road, it performs the tough jobs with even more efficiency than ever before," said Doug Scott, truck group marketing manager. "Customers can be confident that Super Duty's class-leading capability comes with Ford's 'and solution' of best-in-class fuel economy."

All-new diesel and gas engine powertrains are the backbone of the 2011 Super Duty's best-in-class towing (26,400 pounds for F-550 chassis cab with fifth-wheel hitch) and payload capability (6,520 pounds for F-350 dual rear-wheel pickup). The Ford-designed, Ford-engineered and Ford-built 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 turbocharged diesel engine produces best-in-class 735 ft.-lb. of torque at 1,600 rpm and best-in-class 390 horsepower at 2,800 rpm. The new engine is compatible up to B20 biodiesel fuel as well.

The new 6.2-liter V-8 gasoline engine also boasts best-in-class numbers of 405 ft.-lb. of torque at 4,500 rpm and 385 horsepower at 5,500 rpm. The new engine is E85 compatible.

Mated to each engine is the all-new 6R140 heavy-duty TorqShift six-speed automatic transmission. The added feature content and overall efficiency of the transmission are the main reasons for the improved fuel economy. The all-new 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty equipped with the 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel averages an 18 percent improvement for pickup models and up to 25 percent improvement for chassis cabs versus 2010 models. Trucks equipped with new base 6.2-liter V-8 gas engine average a 15 percent improvement versus 2010 models.

"The new transmission is a 'clean-sheet' design, developed specifically to handle the significantly increased torque produced by the new diesel engine and the higher rotational speeds produced by the new gas engine, and to deliver the power to the wheels seamlessly and efficiently for heavy-duty truck customers," said Al Bruck, transmission engineering manager. "Each system and component was scrutinized to deliver optimum performance."

Here's a closer look at what was achieved and the benefits to the customer:

• New torque converter that locks at a far lower rpm than the competition: The new, stronger torque converter is core to the improved transmission performance. One key component is the long-travel turbine damper that allows the transmission to lock earlier, at a lower rpm, which translates to less slip and more fuel efficiency. The new transmission locks down to 900 rpm, which is about 200 rpm less than the outgoing product and more than 100 rpm less than competitors. The second key component of the torque converter is the closed-piston design. This design allows for better control of the lock-up clutch, which enables controlled converter clutch slip during lock-to-lock upshifts that are seamless to the customer.

  - Customer fuel economy benefit: Locked converter operation at lower speeds means less wasted heat energy and better fuel economy.

• Optimized shift and converter lock-up schedule: After analyzing the entire shift schedule, Ford calibration engineers fine-tuned it by measuring and optimizing the fuel flow. The system recognizes light or heavy throttle use, and puts the transmission in the right gear for best performance and efficiency. The entire operating range has been optimized to get the best fuel economy by locking up the converter as soon as possible and as much as possible.

  - Customer fuel economy benefit: Optimizing the shift schedule and lock schedule ensures customers automatically operate in the most efficient gears and save fuel.

• Gearing and double-overdrive: The 6R140 transmission has a ratio span of about 5.9, which is quite a bit wider than competitors. This wider span means the transmission has a deeper first gear that allows customers to get the load moving quicker, and a tall overdrive ratio for good highway efficiency. While the gearing itself is important, the key to overall efficiency is matching that gearing to the correct axle. With the diesel engine, up to four axle ratios are available on the pickups - 3.31, 3.55, 3.73 and 4.30. Matching up the gearing with the right axles means better overall efficiency.

  - Customer fuel economy benefit: The double-overdrive gear means even if a customer gets a downshift on the highway, the transmission remains in overdrive. Also, the F-450 pickup went from a 4.88 axle to a 4.30 axle at launch for the 2011 model mated to the wide ratio span of the transmission. This and other optimizations mean the F-450 now has about a 30 percent improvement in fuel economy.

• Optimized pumping pressure: A certain amount of pressure is required to hold the clutches together so they don't slip. The trick is to have the right amount of pressure to do the job. Too much pressure wastes fuel. The solution is to optimize the size of the pump and precisely control the pressure for all operating conditions.

  - Customer fuel economy benefit: At highway speeds, for example, the line pressure is reduced, which helps save fuel. The system maintains the right amount of pressure for any given speed range. The less energy needed for internal pump pressure means less fuel used.

• Optimized drainback to reduce spin losses: A main objective is to get the fluid through the main barrel to lubricate and cool components, and get it back to the sump as quickly as possible. This reduces windage and parasitic loss. The clutch friction plates were designed to allow fluid to flow through them efficiently for cooling and reduced drag. Clutch housings, connecting shells and the main case housing were optimized to quickly drain the fluid out of rotating components and back into the sump.

  - Customer fuel economy benefit: Fewer parasitic losses due to reduced churning of fluid increases fuel economy.

• Warmer operating temperature: Tied in with spin losses, the 6R140 cooling system has been optimized to allow for the proper amount of cooling when towing heavy loads in high ambient temperatures, while running at an overall higher stabilized temperature. This higher stabilized temperature lowers the viscosity and helps the fluid flow more easily, which reduces parasitic losses and saves fuel. The fluid also warms up faster because it does not flow to the cooling circuit until properly warmed up. Faster warm-up also reduces overall parasitic losses.

  - Customer fuel economy benefit: Fewer parasitic losses due to reduced fluid viscosity translates to less internal drag on the system and increases fuel economy.

Lighter, more efficient than competition
The 6R140 transmission is about 25 pounds lighter than those of competitors. The new engines are lighter than the outgoing products as well, which altogether means much more efficient power flow on a pound-for-pound basis. The 6R140 also has a 150,000-mile fluid change interval, which is 2½ times greater than the outgoing product. A patent-pending high-efficiency dual-media filter is the main reason for the extended maintenance interval, which is another savings for customers.

Cleanest Power Stroke ever
The new 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 turbocharged diesel employs an aftertreatment system to help comply with 2010 federal regulations to reduce NOx levels in diesel emissions by more than 80 percent compared with the previous standard. The Ford aftertreatment system is a three-stage process; a key component is the use of Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF).

Injection of DEF to reduce NOx is a proven technology that's been used throughout the automotive industry. Unlike other strategies used to control NOx, the DEF system allows the diesel engine to run at its optimum range in terms of fuel mixture. Some systems require the engine to run richer - which can be harmful to diesel engines - in order to control the NOx.

The aftertreatment system works like this:

Step One: Cleaning and Heating - The first step in cleaning the diesel exhaust occurs when the exhaust stream enters the Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC). The role of the DOC is twofold. First, it converts and oxidizes hydrocarbons into water and carbon dioxide. This conversion happens at about 250 degrees Celsius.

Second, the DOC is used to provide and promote heat, using specific engine management strategies, into the exhaust system. Through appropriate thermal management, this heat increases the conversion efficiency of the downstream subsystems in reducing emissions.

Step Two: Knocking Out the NOx - The next step in the process is what's known as Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR). In this process, the NOx in the exhaust stream is converted into water and inert nitrogen, which is present in the atmosphere and harmless. Before the exhaust gas enters the SCR chamber, it is dosed with DEF, an aqueous solution that is approximately 67.5 percent water and 32.5 percent pure urea.

When heated, the DEF splits into ammonia and carbon dioxide. These molecules are atomized and vaporized, then enter a mixer that resembles a corkscrew. This twist mixer evenly distributes the ammonia within the exhaust flow. The ammonia enters the SCR module, which contains a catalyzed substrate, and through chemical reactions combines and converts the NOx and ammonia into the harmless inert nitrogen and water. Dosing occurs between 200 and 500 degrees Celsius.

Step Three: Scrubbing Away the Soot - The final part of the cleansing system for the diesel exhaust gas involves the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). The DPF traps any remaining soot, which is then periodically burned away, known as regenerating, when sensors detect the trap is full. The regeneration process sees temperatures in excess of 600 degrees Celsius to burn away soot.

This industry-proven technology ensures that the new 6.7-liter diesel is the cleanest Power Stroke ever, as well as the most fuel-efficient.

"Having this diesel designed in-house at Ford meant we were able to work on optimizations and refinements right from the start," said Tim Ogilvie, vehicle energy supervisor. "We're able to deliver to customers a more refined, more fuel-efficient Super Duty, with class-leading torque and horsepower and the class-leading capability they demand."

• Ford Motor Company earned its fifth straight ENERGY STAR® Award for Sustained Excellence from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
• In 2009, Ford improved energy efficiency in the U.S. by 4.6 percent resulting in savings of approximately $15 million
• Actions that have enabled Ford's energy efficiency gains range from updated heating and lighting systems to advanced computer controls

DEARBORN, Mich., March 1, 2010 - Ford Motor Company's actions to reduce the amount of energy used to manufacture vehicles and support its U.S. operations have earned it the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's coveted 2010 ENERGY STAR Award for the fifth consecutive year.

The 2010 ENERGY STAR Award for Sustained Excellence recognizes Ford's continued leadership and commitment to protecting the environment through energy efficiency.

In 2009, Ford improved energy efficiency in the U.S. by 4.6 percent resulting in savings of approximately $15 million. Actual savings due to plant shutdowns were higher, but Ford measures energy efficiency as energy consumed per vehicle. Since 2000, Ford's U.S. facilities have improved energy efficiency by more than 30 percent. That's equivalent to the annual energy consumed by more than 110,000 homes.

"More than ever, we at Ford Motor Company are committed to the responsible use of resources," said George Andraos, director, Energy and Manufacturing Site Management. "Partnering with ENERGY STAR is an essential component of Ford's plan to become economically, environmentally and socially sustainable."

Energy efficiency enablers include innovative technology solutions, replication of best practices and nonproduction shutdowns. A number of actions taken by Ford since 2000 have contributed to its overall energy efficiency improvement, including:

• Using flexible tooling to assemble multiple vehicles on the same production line, which requires less manufacturing floor space and optimizes plant utilization
• Updated facility lighting systems by replacing inefficient high-intensity discharge fixtures with up-to-date fluorescent lights and control systems
• Upgraded paint process systems including booth air handling and improved emission controls
• Continued development of Ford's "Paint Shop of the Future" processes, including Fumes-to-Fuel that turns paint fumes into electricity, the 3-Wet painting process that significantly reduces the footprint and energy use of paint booths, and zirconium oxide pretreatment that uses less energy to inhibit surface corrosion
• Installed advanced computer controls on all North American plant air compressors for paint shop applications and pneumatic tools
• Initiated a PC Power Management program to improve global energy efficiency with an estimated reduction in the company's carbon footprint of between 16,000 and 25,000 metric tons annually
• Initiated the plan for the recently announced "Go Green" Dealership Sustainability Program to improve the energy efficiency of Ford and Lincoln Mercury dealerships
• Aggressively curtailing energy use during extended production shutdown periods
• Leveraging the ENERGY STAR program through employee energy awareness communications and events, development of energy modeling and analysis tools, and replication of industry best practices
• Updated heating systems at many manufacturing facilities by replacing outmoded steam powerhouses with digitally controlled direct-fired natural gas air handler

Ford has shared these and other energy efficiency practices with its global industrial partners and coached its regional operations to use ENERGY STAR guidelines as a foundation for sustainable energy management processes.

 Finding the right words to describe the 2011 Shelby GT500? is hard. Almost as hard as trying to ignore one on the street. Built in limited production, this prize of collectible American muscle holds true to its Shelby racing heritage with more raw power and performance-enhancing additions than ever before.

Thanks to a Roots-type Eaton supercharger bolted to its all-new, cast-aluminum engine block, the special 5.4-liter four-valve V8 delivers 550 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft. of torque at 6,200 rpm. And this year's optional Performance Package is just as impressive.

The performance features include serious upgrades engineered to make this dream ride even more awe-inspiring. Even the most die-hard Shelby fans will be struck by the staggered wheel setup where 19-inch wheels live up front while 20-inch wheels work from the back, the new racing-tuned suspension and Directional R-Compound tires at each corner.

For a refresher course, the Shelby GT500? carries a Tremec six-speed manual transmission, a limited-slip rear differential with 3.55 performance gear ratio or an optional 3.73. For stopping this beast, you'll have Brembo four-piston front brake calipers and 14-inch vented rotors.

Everything new to this year's Shelby was added to produce more. More sky with an optional glass roof. More power. More speed. And plenty more to brag about. Although, for those who actually think they can handle one in their driveway, talking won't be the major focus.

• The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid, 2010 Ford Taurus and 2010 Ford Flex are among the "Top 10 Family Cars for 2010," according to the editors of Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com
• Vehicles are chosen based on factors such as resale value, fuel efficiency, capability and kid-friendliness
• For more information about the "Top 10 Family Cars for 2010," please visit www.kbb.com/Top10FamilyCars

DEARBORN, Mich., Feb. 16, 2010 - Three Ford vehicles - the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid, 2010 Ford Taurus and 2010 Ford Flex - are among the "Top 10 Family Cars for 2010," according to the editors of Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com.

"While the product landscape in the new-car world seems ever-changing, the vehicle needs of the typical American family remain fairly constant; capable versatility, value, safety and economical factors usually remain top-of-mind," said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com.

Nerad says the Ford Fusion Hybrid is a top pick for families because it saves money at the pump, keeps everyone entertained with the latest Ford SYNC® technology, and scores high in terms of ride and handling.

"The Ford Fusion Hybrid doesn't scream its hybrid-ness to the multitudes," he said. "Instead, it provides what many of us at Kelley Blue Book feel is the best hybrid experience on the road. We love the way the Fusion Hybrid rides and handles, and we applaud its innovative dash and environmental credentials."

Nerad says customers in the market for a family car should also consider the Ford Taurus because it delivers features that American families will appreciate.

"What was once merely a competent full-size sedan has transformed into a visually striking technological tour de force," he said. "With features uncommon in its segment, a roomy cabin, cavernous trunk, and nimbleness that belies its size, the redesigned Ford Taurus is a family car that pleases everyone, including the driver."

Nerad says if the editors of Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com had to pick an overall winner from the "Top 10 Family Cars for 2010," the Ford Flex might get the nod.

"The Ford Flex leaves plain-vanilla crossovers behind with its distinctive styling, and it has all the comfort and convenience features required to be a great transcontinental family tourer while performing equally well in getting the kids to softball practice," he said. "It drives better than some midsize sedans, offers comfortable seating for seven, and boasts a long list of available interior amenities including an array of infotainment features and even a small refrigerator."

M-Sport, the Cumbrian based team behind the development of the Ford Fiesta S2000 rally car, were today celebrating a dream debut which saw the car take international victories on two continents within 24 hours to cement a unique international debut for the recently launched vehicle.

Victory for Mikko Hirvonen and Jarmo Lehtinen on the historic Monte Carlo Rally was supported by victory on the Q-Tel Qatar Rally by Nasser Al Attiyah and his Italian co-driver Giovanni Bernacchini in an Autotek supported version of the newly released car.

Only homologated by the FIA on 15th January 2010, the Ford Fiesta S2000, developed by M-Sport's technical team under the direction of Christian Loriaux, took back-to-back victories in what can arguably be described as two of the toughest tarmac and gravel events in the international calendar.

M-Sport Managing Director, Malcolm Wilson OBE was keen to point out the contribution made by all of the team towards this historic success: "This really is a perfect debut for the Fiesta S2000. The performance of the car on both the demanding stages of the Monte and the incredibly rough stages in Qatar has proven the exciting potential of the car in all conditions. The results are a just-reward for the hard work and dedication that has been shown by everyone involved in the development of the car. Our technical partners have excelled and the fantastic team effort that has seen all the departments at M-Sport pull out all the stops to get these cars to the start-line under difficult conditions must be applauded."

This weekend's result is just the tip of the iceberg for the Ford Fiesta S2000 rally car as M-Sport now begin the daunting task of delivering 22 cars to customer teams over the next six weeks with cars going to Finland, Czech Republic, Ireland, Spain, South Africa, Poland, Portugal, Abu Dhabi and Italy.

-source: m-sport

Tragedy spurs Clark to excel: As he climbs ladder to stardom, Colts TE is inspired by memory of mother

INDIANAPOLIS -- The high-pitched shriek rattled Dallas Clark and sent him racing through that small white house in Livermore, Iowa.

He was only 18 then, a bright-eyed high school senior just three days from graduation and a long way from NFL stardom. But when Clark burst into his garage back in 1998, he saw how fast he was about to grow up: His 49-year-old mother, Jan, had stopped breathing. She had collapsed while cleaning up for Dallas' upcoming celebration.

Clark instantly spun back toward the house. He charged inside to call 911, then returned moments later to try resuscitating his mother with the help of his aunt, Judy Jacobson. Paramedics would tell Clark later that Jan wouldn't have survived the heart attack even if she'd been transported to the hospital located 10 miles away. To this day, Clark figures that's what medical technicians tell teenagers who have just watched their mothers die in their arms.
That's the first thing to understand about Clark -- the pain of that moment will never pass. It was right there in his face a few weeks ago as he leaned against a wall at the Indianapolis Colts' training facility. Clark choked back tears as he recounted the memories, fully aware that his path to becoming one of the league's best tight ends began when Jan died.

"I keep thinking it would be nice for her to see me doing these things," Clark said.

"She didn't get to see my first game in the league. She didn't get to see my first touchdown. My wife [Karen] and I have a 7-month-old son [Dane], and she never got to see him. You think it's going to get easier, but it really never does."

If Jan Clark were alive, she would be delighted by how far her youngest son has come. Clark has been a key component of the Colts' 8-0 start and race to AFC supremacy, a status that will be tested when the 6-2 New England Patriots visit Sunday night.

This fall, the seven-year veteran has taken his game to new heights. His 60 receptions rank second in the league. Clark's 703 receiving yards put him on pace for his first 1,000-yard season.

For a man who has spent most of his career operating in the shadows of teammates with higher profiles -- and more-heralded tight ends around the league -- this season has been Clark's official coming-out party.

No longer "third fiddle"

His timing couldn't be better, either. The offseason trade that sent Tony Gonzalez from the Kansas City Chiefs to the Atlanta Falcons means 30-year-old Clark has a strong shot at making his first appearance on the AFC Pro Bowl roster.

There also are so many young tight ends on the rise that it's hard for everybody to receive adequate recognition. That group includes players such as Philadelphia's Brent Celek, Seattle's John Carlson, San Francisco's Vernon Davis and Houston's Owen Daniels (although he recently went on injured reserve with a torn ACL).

"There are so many big tight ends who can run that it's easy to overlook someone like Clark," said Kansas City Chiefs strong safety Mike Brown. "He has above-average size and above-average speed, but he's as good as anybody at the position."

Clark has been making life harder on opponents with each passing week. He caught seven passes for 183 yards -- including a first-play, 80-yard catch-and-run touchdown -- in a 27-23 victory over the Miami Dolphins on Sept. 21.

Clark added another eight receptions for 99 yards in an 18-14 defeat of the San Francisco 49ers on Nov. 2.

And in the 20-17 Week 9 victory over the Houston Texans, he delivered again: a career-high 14 receptions for 119 yards.

Clark should be just as tough for New England to handle.

"He really limits what you do defensively," said Texans defensive coordinator Frank Bush.

"You want to cover him with a nickelback, but he's so big that he can push around a smaller defensive back in the run game. And when you try to put a linebacker on him, he can just run by that person. You usually end up playing zone just to deal with him."

What makes 6-foot-3, 252-pound Clark even more dangerous is his versatility. He can line up: (1) on the line of scrimmage next to the offensive tackle; (2) out wide; (3) in the slot; or (4) in the backfield.

Clark is so effective running routes from all those spots that the St. Louis Rams recently paid him the ultimate respect in a 42-6 Colts win on Oct. 25 -- they opened the game with five defensive backs. Although Indianapolis had lined up in its base offense to start the contest, the Rams wanted an extra secondary member available to shadow the tight end.

Those tactics still haven't been enough to slow Clark's production. After years of watching wide receivers Marvin Harrison and Reggie Wayne serve as the primary threats in the Colts' system, he's heading toward his first 100-catch season.

"I really don't know why my numbers are up," Clark said. "I don't know if it's because Marvin isn't here anymore or because we have so many new receivers. I get asked that a lot, but my thing always has been to just show up to work and give it everything I have. If the ball comes my way, I try to make a play."

"Dallas has had a great attitude ever since he's been here because he's usually been the third fiddle," Colts quarterback Peyton Manning said. "He was in the game plan, but we always featured Marvin and Reggie.

"And when Brandon Stokley was here [from 2003 to 2006], Dallas really became the fourth fiddle. But now, defenses are giving him a lot of opportunities and we're looking to take advantage of them."

Coping with a crushing loss
One reason Clark has never complained about his role is that he really doesn't see the value in whining.

As Colts coach Jim Caldwell said, "You always can find Dallas on the practice field because he's the one having the most fun."

The Colts even get a kick out of Clark off the field. When the team traveled to Miami for Super Bowl XLI in February 2007, he was teased for his outfit -- a cream-colored suit with a mock turtleneck that Clark figured would fit in with the South Florida crowd.

Said Colts center Jeff Saturday: "Dallas is definitely a bit of a country boy."

Clark doesn't mind that label. In fact, he still lives in Livermore, a town of roughly 430 people, in the offseason. Everybody knows his family -- he has two older brothers, Derrik and Dan -- and people always make him feel loved.

"I love what you get from being in a small community," Clark said.

"When my mother died, everybody pitched in and brought food to help out. You don't forget that stuff. That's why, even though I'm here doing my thing, I always feel like I'm representing them. I'm always trying to stay grounded."

That's exactly how Clark was raised after Jan divorced Doug Clark during Dallas' childhood. She had two older sons, and they learned the value of dependability from her. She never missed any of her sons' games, and she always was easy to find.

Jan was once so into one of Dallas' childhood basketball games that she literally moved with him down the stands as he dribbled the ball upcourt.

"She raised three of the most ornery boys you'd ever find, and she was always there for us," Dallas said. "She was everything."

Jan's death rocked the entire town. She had worked as the city clerk, and just about everybody knew her. In fact, the Clarks didn't have to think hard about where to have her funeral. To accommodate the huge crowd, they held it right there in the gymnasium at Clark's school, Twin River Valley High in Bode, Iowa.

Clark easily could have drifted after that point. But that's when everything he had learned from his mother and his brothers, both of whom played football in college, made an impact.

Although Clark was going to be a walk-on linebacker at Iowa later that fall, he wasn't going to give up on himself.

As his Aunt Judy said, "You know the saying, 'When a boy becomes a man'? That time was a big step for Dallas."

"The best thing about Dallas is that he wants to compete," Dan Clark said.

"I think that helped him when our mother died. He always had the mental toughness to keep going. And I really think he didn't want to disappoint Mom."

An unlikely, rocky path to stardom at Iowa
Clark's road didn't get any easier in college. After breaking his collarbone playing high school baseball, he wasn't even on the Hawkeyes team as a freshman (he was a "gray shirt" because of his injury). He made money by cutting the grass at Kinnick Stadium. His second year was ruined by an appendectomy.

Once Clark got on the field in his third year of school -- his redshirt freshman year of eligibility -- his shortcomings as a backup linebacker limited him. He played primarily on special teams.

When Dallas asked Derrik to review film of Dallas' defensive skills, Derrik was stunned.

"There was no technique," said Derrik, who played linebacker at Iowa State.

"In high school, all Dallas had to do was see the ball and run to get it. But in college, he was taking so long to see the ball that he was getting gobbled up by the offensive linemen. That's how slow he was at reading the play."

Clark might have remained an unsuccessful linebacker if not for a snowy day in January after his third year at Iowa. When his roommate, then Iowa quarterback Kyle McCann, asked him to play catch in the team's indoor training facility, Hawkeyes coach Kirk Ferentz just happened to be walking by during their session.

What Ferentz saw was the prototype for a pass-catching tight end: a big kid with soft hands, surprising agility and a natural feel for running routes.

Although Clark always had wanted to be a linebacker just like Derrik, he was Iowa's starting tight end by the next season. As a tribute to Jan, he wrote "Mom" on the tape wrapped around his wrists for games.

"It didn't take long for us to see he could catch the ball and run with it," said Hawkeyes offensive coordinator Ken O'Keefe.

"Dallas would catch a 5-yard pass and go 50 yards with it. He once caught a simple dump-off and went 95 yards for a touchdown. He just had a knack for knowing how to finish plays."

Clark developed so quickly that he won the John Mackey Award -- given to the nation's top tight end -- as a junior. But he still didn't feel like a star when he passed up his senior year to enter the 2003 NFL draft.

After playing a round of golf with his brothers, Clark spent the rest of the day holed up in a hotel room outside Iowa City with a few family members. Even though he was projected as a top pick, he didn't want any reporters or fans finding him. He had watched Derrik go undrafted a few years earlier and feared facing the same fate.

When the Colts selected him 24th overall, Clark still didn't savor his success.

"I don't even know if I believed I was a first-round pick in my first year," Clark said.

"I was totally oblivious to what that meant. Some guys get an ego boost, but I felt like I had to prove myself even more. I didn't want to be one of those guys that the organization is always waiting to develop."

Manning's roommate and go-to guy
Still, there was a steep learning curve for Clark.

At Iowa, he often used his natural ability to succeed. In his first few years in Indianapolis, Clark had to deal with the Colts' complex offense.

"I never remember getting a phone call from him where he said he wasn't getting the ball enough," Derrik said. "Instead, he would say things like, 'Do you know how much I screwed up today?' He really had to bust his hump to learn what he was supposed to do."

Clark eventually found his way. He averaged 30 receptions through his first four seasons, then his numbers increased as injuries sapped Harrison's effectiveness.

There was a 58-catch season in 2007, a year when, Clark said, "I finally started feeling like the offense was coming naturally to me, that I wasn't always thinking about what to do."

In 2008, Clark improved again -- he caught 77 passes for 848 yards, although those numbers still weren't enough to put him in the Pro Bowl (Gonzalez and San Diego Chargers star Antonio Gates were selected, and Daniels was the team's alternate).

This season, Clark keeps showing how much his chemistry with Manning -- who rooms with Clark on road trips -- is yielding huge benefits for an offense that hasn't changed much schematically.

"A lot of Clark's success has to do with him having one of the best quarterbacks ever," said Chiefs defensive back Brown, a 10-year veteran and former Pro Bowl selection with the Chicago Bears.

"He knows how to get to the right spot on the field, and Peyton knows just where to put the ball so only [Clark] can catch it. They can just look at each other and know exactly what the other one is going to do."

That was the case in that victory over the 49ers. After catching just three balls in the first half, Clark caught five in the second, including three that resulted in critical first downs in the fourth quarter.

After the contest, Clark met with a collection of friends and relatives who had made the trip over from Livermore for the game. There was wife Karen with a beaming smile and Derrik wearing his younger brother's college football jersey. Jan's old high school basketball coach had driven over, as well.

Of course, there's always one person missing from these special evenings, but Clark realizes his mother would be proud of what he has become.

There was a time when Dallas Clark was merely another talented player in the Colts' high-octane offense. Now, he's taking his rightful place among the elite tight ends in the NFL.

"As hard as it's been, I really do love the road I've traveled to get to this point," Clark said.

"It's made me appreciate all the little things that come with this game. I know it's a blessing to be here. And that's why I'm going to make sure I always enjoy it."

Senior writer Jeffri Chadiha covers the NFL for ESPN.com.

 
Transit Connect Taxi goes into production and will be available for the 2011 model year

• Transit Connect is built on a dedicated commercial vehicle platform, tested to Ford's toughest truck standards, offers a fuel-efficient 2.0-liter four-cylinder gas engine and is designed to meet the extreme demands of taxi service
• A new engine prep package allows conversion to efficient, clean-burning compressed natural gas (CNG) or propane (LPG, or liquefied petroleum gas)
• Transit Connect's roomy, easy-to-access interior provides passenger comfort and ample luggage storage space, even after modification to contain CNG/LPG fuel tanks

2011 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT ELECTRIC & TAXI MEDIA SITE

CHICAGO, Feb. 9, 2010 - The Ford Transit Connect Taxi will go into production and arrive in dealerships later this year as a 2011 model, adding to Ford Motor Company's leadership in the North American taxi market.

Making the announcement today at the Chicago Auto Show, Ford also said it will introduce engine prep packages on all Transit Connect models - base and taxi - allowing conversion to efficient, clean-burning compressed natural gas (CNG) or propane (LPG, or liquefied petroleum gas). Both CNG and LPG are popular among taxi operators because of their low cost of ownership.

The roomy, flexible interior of the Transit Connect - the 2010 North American Truck of the Year - is perfectly suited for taxi service and conversion to CNG and LPG. The vehicle's 135 cubic feet of cargo space accommodates a compressed gas tank while leaving ample passenger legroom and cargo capacity.

"While meeting with taxi operators in cities throughout the U.S., we found considerable interest for vehicles that run on alternative fuels," said Mark Fields, Ford's president of The Americas. "The Transit Connect Taxi, combined with an engine modified by Ford to use CNG/LPG, is designed to meet that need. This marks a new era in 'green' transit."

To further serve taxi operators, Ford will provide required calibration specifications for the CNG or LPG conversion. By properly following Ford's specifications, the conversion can be completed without voiding the engine's warranty.

The alternative fuel advantage
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, CNG is less expensive and burns cleaner than gasoline, resulting in 30 percent to 40 percent less greenhouse gas emissions. Propane also burns cleaner than gasoline.

"Compressed natural gas and propane offer more than sufficient power for vehicles because they are high-energy fuels," said Rob Stevens, Transit Connect chief engineer. "Another natural benefit for these fuels is they provide an overall lower emission of greenhouse gases compared to gasoline. Additionally, operating on CNG or LPG provides the operators lower fuel/operating costs for their fleet."

Furthermore, nearly 87 percent of natural gas used in the United States is domestically produced. There also are government tax credit incentives for fleets to convert to alternative fuels.

Since October 2009, CNG prep packages have been available on E-Series vans with 5.4-liter and 6.8-liter gas engines.

A conversion-ready interior
The Transit Connect Taxi offers an outstanding interior package for people and cargo. With its open architecture, the taxi provides excellent interior headroom and passenger visibility. The vehicle's rear seat has been moved back three inches to maximize passenger comfort. Plus, with 6.5 inches of ground clearance, passengers step easily through the dual sliding doors. Additional climate control ventilation has been added for rear seat passengers.

The Transit Connect Taxi also features a wiring upfit package with a hole in the roof for signage, vinyl front and rear seats, rubber rear floor, sliding second-row windows and standard third-row windows - all of which are factory installed. Additional installation of technology and other taxi modifications such as roof signage and the optional seating partition are handled by taxi upfitters in local markets.

The vehicle's cargo area easily accommodates compressed natural gas tanks directly behind the second-row seat, still allowing ample luggage storage.

Technology on the go
Ford is collaborating with Creative Mobile Technologies, LLC (CMT), to integrate premier payment processing and passenger information technologies in the Transit Connect Taxi.

Ford and CMT also are developing strategies for potential integration of Ford Work Solutions, a suite of productivity technologies for business owners providing a wireless in-dash computer with full high-speed Internet access and navigation. "Ford has demonstrated a significant commitment to support the taxi industry with not only a dedicated product but also with the commitment to work with the technology companies that support the industry," said Jason Poliner, chief operating officer, CMT. "Ford understands that the taxi business is not just the vehicle but a complete technological solution."

Evidence of how this technology could work in the future is included in the Transit Connect Taxi. It also features an 8.4-inch electronic infotainment and navigation screen that shows cab fare, news, weather, sports scores and stock ticker. With the touch screen, passengers also can select their choice of programming, follow the taxi's journey on a map, or scroll through a list of points of interest along the route - including restaurants, museums and shops.

Once at the destination, the screen displays the fare with options to pay via cash, credit or debit. Cardholders can swipe their card, select a pre-calculated tip recommendation or utilize the touch screen to enter a tip amount, and complete the transaction right from their seat.

Building on taxi leadership
The "green" taxi isn't new at Ford, which has been a leader in the taxi business for decades. Ford was the first manufacturer to introduce gas-electric hybrid-powered taxis into North American fleets with the launch of the Ford Escape Hybrid in San Francisco and New York City in early 2005.

Built on a dedicated commercial vehicle platform and tested to Ford tough truck standards, the Transit Connect Taxi - including gasoline-powered versions and those modified to operate on CNG/LPG - is designed to meet the extreme demands of taxi service.

With its standard 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine and automatic transmission, the conventionally powered Transit Connect is expected to deliver an estimated 30 percent improvement in fuel economy over many of today's traditional taxis.

"Transit Connect already has proven that it offers tremendous versatility for commercial fleet use," said Gerry Koss, Ford fleet marketing manager. "The Transit Connect taxi, combined with the capability for CNG/LPG conversion, further demonstrates its flexibility."

1. Who do you think the best tight end in the NFL is (besides yourself of course)?

I admire what Tony Gonzalez does as a TE. The way he has been able to play at such a high level for such a long time says a lot about him as a player.

2. What was your first car?

Red, 1989 Chevy Beretta

3. If the season ended today, which team do you think would be the toughest to play in the playoffs?

That's the great thing about this league, if you make it to the playoffs that means you have a really good team and anything can happen. So that is a tough question to answer because it seems every team is tough when you get to the playoffs!

Reminder: The autograph session is November 9, 2009 from 6:00 to 7:30 pm in our showroom. Please visit our website for additional details www.pearsonford.net