2011 Explorer Safety--Strength, Technology and Innovation

DEARBORN--The all-new 2011 Ford Explorer targets top safety ratings with a stiff unibody structure and a class-leading suite of active and passive safety features and technologies, plus another Ford safety innovation--the world's first second-row inflatable rear belts.

Rear seat passengers-often children or mature passengers-can be more vulnerable to head, chest and neck injuries. Ford's unique inflatable rear seat belts spread impact forces across more than five times the area than conventional seat belts, reducing pressure on the chest while helping to control head and neck motion. Belt comfort should also help increase usage rates. Studies show inflatable belts to be more comfortable for passengers due to padding.

From the boron front bumper beam through the hydroformed front frame rails and high-strength steel side-impact tubes, Explorer's rigid body structure is designed to provide robust protection for occupants. In the instance of a crash, these elements come together to protect Explorer driver and passengers inside a safety cage of strength.

Standard Explorer safety features include:

• AdvanceTrac with RSC features Curve Control functionality to provide braking--optimized by each individual wheel.
• Second-generation first-row airbags, side seat airbags
• Belt-minder for driver and first-row passenger
• Front-passenger sensing system
• Energy-management system pretensionin for height-adjustable first-row seat belts
• LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system for outboard second row positions, for safely securing child safety seats
• SOS Post-Crash Alert System
• Safety Canopy side curtain airbags
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System

Available Explorer safety features include:

• Adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support
• BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) with cross-traffic alert

2011 Ford Edge Officially has Top Fuel Economy and Best-in-Class Power

DEARBORN--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."

"The 2011 Ford Edge will deliver V6 horsepower and fuel economy the competition simply can't beat," said Amy Marentic, group marketing manager, Ford cars and CUV's. "With up to a 4 mpg advantage over the competition, Edge will give customers the best of both worlds by delivering an engaging, fun-to-drive experience without sacrificing fuel economy. Edge will deliver all this while continuing to provide customers bold, distinctive styling and revolutionary technology highlighted by the industry-first MyFord Touch system.

How 2011 Edge earned fuel economy leadership
Advanced engine technology, clever control strategies and a fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmission combine to create a powertrain that efficiently produces increased levels of power and performance with improved fuel economy. Next-generation tires are key as well.

Engineers and designers examined all aspects of the popular midsize crossover and optimized them piece by piece, system by system. This intensive approach to detail has paid dividends.

Ford improved in fuel economy more than any major automaker between 2004 and 2009, according to the EPA. The government agency rates Ford's combined car and truck fuel economy improvement at nearly 20 percent, almost double the next closest competitor.

"The key to performance gains and fuel economy with the 2011 Ford Edge is that we don't look at power and fuel economy as being mutually exclusive," said Mazen Hammoud, Edge Powertrain Calibrations manager. "Instead, we focus on optimizing every component, every system and every control in the powertrain for greater overall efficiency, enabling increased power and better performance."

Here's a quick look at some of the key reasons why the 2011 Edge delivers class-leading power and fuel economy:

• Advanced Technology: New for 2011 is twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT), which allows on-the-fly adjustment to the engine's airflow for maximum efficiency. This leads to better fuel economy--approximately a 3 to 4 percent improvement from this strategy alone.
• New engine hardware: The 3.5-liter V6 for 2011 Edge adds piston-cooling jets and polished valvetrain buckets and combines them with an improved intake manifold and cylinder head with increased port flow to optimize the system as a whole. The piston-cooling jets spray oil on the underside of the pistons and enable faster oil warm-up and a higher compression ratio. The polished valevetrain buckets reduce friction, which in turn aids fuel economy and also improves durability (wear) of the cam and bucket tappet. The improved intake manifold and cylinder head optimizes engine airflow.
• Lower idle speed: Engine idle speed was reduced from 620-600 rpm to save fuel.
• Aerodynamic optimizations: Underbody shielding and tire spoilers were added to help create a more efficient aerodynamic shape. Also, the grille openings were optimized to reduce excess airflow to the engine compartment, thus reducing drag.
• Fuel shutoff: The 2011 Edge employs an aggressive deceleration fuel shutoff control system, which shuts off the engine when the customer doesn't command engine torque--such as decelerating at freeway speeds.
• Battery management system: The new Edge also uses smart charging. Normally the alternator continuously charges the battery, which wastes energy. Smart charging increases the alternator output when braking or decelerating, converting the vehicle's motion energy into electric energy without using additional fuel. The recovered energy then goes to recharge the battery so that it can be used later.
• Electrical load shedding: This new feature shuts off devices if they are left on with the key in the accessory position. This saves battery life and keeps the battery from going dead, aiding reliable starts.
• Reliable starts: The one-touch starting in the 2011 Edge enables starts of around seven-tenths of a second with precise fuel delivery for maximum fuel economy and minimal emissions.
• New tires: Both the 2011 Edge SEL and Edge Limited add next-generation 18-inch tires. Just as the new powertrain produces increased power and better fuel economy, the new tires have been engineered to provide better performance and grip while also increasing fuel economy through improved construction and compound.

"The 2011 Ford Edge adds more power and performance with better fuel economy for a better customer experience," said Bannon.

Ford debuts new curve control technology

Sensors help slow vehicle rounding a turn to rapidly
Alisa Priddle/The Detroit News

Dearborn--For anyone who has experienced that moment of panic from rounding an exit ramp too quickly, Ford Motor Co. is offering a safety solution.

The 2011 Ford Explorer--due later this year--has an upgraded electronic stability control system to better hug the road if a driver takes a curve too quickly. Ford demonstrated its curve control technology recently.

The technology, in development for 18 months, builds on the current stability control system, using the same sensors to monitor how much the driver wants to turn, versus how much the vehicle is actually turning. If the input data determines the driver won't make the turn safely, it can slow the vehicle 10 miles per hour in a second, by cutting engine torque and applying the brakes.

In the first demonstration, with stability control but no curve control, an Explorer taking a curve at 50 mph wiped out orange cones as the rear end skidded out. Test driver and engineer Dave Messih said in real life, the car would have been on the shoulder--a mistake that can result in a rollover. In the second demonstration, with curve technology engaged, Messih took the corner at the same speed and again kept his foot off the brake. The corrective technology braked and snapped the rear into place, executing the turn seamlessly. The sensation was dramatic but not jarring.

"We all like to think we're professional drivers and don't need this," said analyst Erich Merkle, president of Autoconomy in Grand Rapids. "Even good drivers in unfamiliar territory or in severe weather could benefit from this," he said. "Putting it in a family vehicle makes sense."

Take a curve quickly contributes to 50,000 crashes a year in the United States, said Pal Mascarenas, vice president of global product engineering.

Ford's curve control will be standard on the Explorer and will be added to 90 percent of Ford's light trucks and crossovers by 2015. Eventually, it will find its way to cars, but because their lower center of gravity makes them less likely to roll over, trucks are the initial priority, said Sue Cischke, group vice president of sustainability, environment and safety engineering.

Ford's system is unique, said Ali Jammoul, chief chassis engineer. There is little incremental cost; it was developed as part of continuous improvement of stability control and no additional hardware is required.

For 2011, the Explorer switches to a car-based vehicle. Curve control is one of a raft of safety features including inflatable rear seat belts, adaptive cruise control and blind spot and cross-traffic alerts.

In 2001, problems with Firestone tires contributed to a number of Explorer rollovers that led to regulations mandating stability control. For the new Explorer, "Ford is going way overboard on safety features," Merkle said.

Stock Quotes, Horoscopes and More Added to Ford SYNC Cloud-Based Services; No Extra Fees Attached

DEARBORN--Horoscopes, stock quotes, movie listings and access to airlines, rental cars and hotels are just a voice command away for customers driving Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles equipped with the SYNC app Traffic, Directions and Information (TDI).

And customers did not have to inquire, purchase or upgrade anything to get this whole new set of services. All that is needed is an active owner account on www.syncmyride.com.

"SYNC is helping us move at a faster pace and deliver the level of connectivity and access that consumers want," said Doug VanDagens, director, Ford Connected Services Organization. "Now, by leveraging the cloud, we continue to give our customers access to more and more services without having to touch the vehicle or inconvenience the owner with more subscription fees."

Ford expaneded SYNC TDI services to include stock quotes, entertainment, travel and movie categories, in addition to the already available traffic, directions, news and business search capabilities. The new services are provided by Microsoft Tellme, one of the many partners in Ford's cloud-based Service Delivery Network, which gives SYNC users the ability to use a simple Bluetooth-enabled cell phone to connect and voice request the information they want while in the car.

More features, no extra cost
Owners of SYNC-equipped 2010 and 2011 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury products will have immediate access to the enhanced TDI services.

"Current TDI users will hear a special announcement through SYNC the first time they call in, announcing stocks, movies, horoscopes and travel, and informing them that they have more choices," adds VanDagens.

When users say the "services" voice command, they can ask for "stocks," "horoscopes,""movies" or "travel," and follow the prompts. They can also create a personalized list of stocks and horoscopes to follow by visiting their account on www.syncmyride.com, clicking on the "Manage favorites" tab and adding their top picks.

In total, the new SYNC TDI categories offer the following options:

Stocks

• Say a company name and receive real-time stock quotes
• Request other specifics such as the high/low of the day, or a 52-week period, share volume, market cap and price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio

Horoscopes

• Speak an astrological sign to hear the daily horoscope
• Hear list of astrological signs

Movies

• Search for movie theaters near customer's current location or provided city
• Receive lists of new releases
• Say a movie name and receive rating information, theater names where movies are playing
• Request movie times at a location for today, tomorrow or the next day

Travel

• Request to be directly connected to 150 airlines, the 50 largest hotel chains and the 11 largest rental car agencies---all in the U.S.

Q&A with Doug Scott, Ford Truck Marketing Manager

By John Fossen

DEARBORN--The new 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty is off to a fast start. About 3,700 new Super Duties were sold in April--more than double the number anticipated. Through April, F-Series' sales were up 30 percent, far outpacing the overall full-size pickup segment. Ford Truck Marketing Manager Doug Scott recently fielded questions about Ford trucks during a live chat on TheFordStory.com. Below are excerpts from those exchanges.

Q: Truck quality and performance are always major considerations. How is Ford continuing to stay ahead of the pack in this area, especially in the larger truck class?
A: Our watchword is continuous improvement in all aspects. We spend an incredible amount of time and effort analyzing customer survey feedback and conducting focus group discussions and face-to-face meetings, looking for opportunities to give our customers a better product. Additionally, at the manufacturing level, better design, CAD, CAE and a dedication to being the best have helped us achieve our current position of having the best quality in the industry. Obviously, you don't get to be the best-selling truck in America for 33 consecutive years if you aren't delivering a durable, reliable, high-quality product.

Q: I read the new Ford F-250 with the diesel engine was (averaging) 28 mgp. Is that possible?
A: The fuel economy on all models of the 2011 Super Duty is 18% better than the previous model. Some versions, such as the F-450, boast up to 40% improvement. Every day, we are hearing that customers are getting in the 20's. When we did our media drive in Arizona a few months ago, we had an 80 mile fuel economy challenge, and one journalist actually got over 34 mpg.

Q: When will we see a diesel engine in the F-150?
A: EcoBoost is going to deliver one of the main benefits offered by diesel--much improved fuel economy. In our other vehicle lines where EcoBoost is presently available, it is producing up to 20% better fuel economy.

Q: How do you feel about the new Chevy truck coming out?
A: Since they are upgrading the front suspension and the Duramax diesel, I expect that it will be a more formidable competitor than the 2010 Silverado HD. We're anxious to get our hands on one and really see what it can deliver.

Q: What are your thoughts about Chevy waiting until after Ford announced its (key performance and capability numbers) to announce theirs, trying to one-up you?
A: We are always looking to improve our F-Series products to better address the needs of our loyal customers. As we like to say around here--The Best Never Rest!

Q: I thought Dodge was bold to switch to coil springs for their 1500. What are your thoughts on that?
A: Bold, but not meeting the needs of the capability-oriented buyer who comprises the majority of today's full-size pickup customer. It shows up in their declining market share performance.

Q: Are there any plans to bring back the Lightning?
A: We're always evaluating market opportunities. Right now we're focused on maximizing our presence in 0ff-road performance with the F-150 SVT Raptor 6.2L V-8.

Q: The Raptor is a really nice looking truck. Are there any plans to make a four-door version?
A: Yes. We will offer an F-150 SVT Raptor SuperCrew for the 2011 model year.

Q: What does the future hold for the Ranger? Is a midsize truck possible?
A: No new news here. We will continue to offer the Ranger through the end of 2011.

FORD vs. TOYOTA

• Ford has quality Toyota can't beat!
• Ford has earned more NHTSA five-star ratings than Toyota
• Ford offers features such as SYNC, MyKey and EasyFuel capless filler, features Toyota doesn't offer
• Ford Fusion automatic beats Toyota Camry fuel economy by two mpg highway.
• 2010 Ford Fusion is projected to holds its value better than the 2010 Toyota Camry

FORD vs. HONDA

• Ford has quality Honda can't beat!
• Ford has earned more NHTSA five-star ratings than Honda
• Ford offers features such as SYNC, MyKey and EasyFuel capless filler, features Honda doesn't offer
• Ford Fusion has better quality than Honda Accord and beats Accord fuel economy by three mpg highway

FORD vs. NISSAN

• Ford has earned more NHTSA five-star ratings than Nissan
• Ford offers features such as SYNC, MyKey and EasyFuel capless filler, features Nissan doesn't offer
• Ford Fusion beats Nissan Altima fuel economy by two mpg highway

Ford Announces---Receive $1000 Extra for Your Import Trade-In

Customers that currently own or lease a 1995 or newer Toyota, Honda, Lexus, Scion or Acura car, truck or SUV who trade-in or have a lease expiring by June 30, 2010 will receive $1,000 toward the pruchase or lease of an eligible new 2010 Ford car, truck or SUV. Call Louisburg Ford today for complete details, toll-free 1-877-901-4311.