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.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
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
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
- 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
- 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.
Friday, May 28, 2010
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.
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.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
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
Thursday, February 4, 2010
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.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Are You Protected?
Do you have health insurance? What about homeowners or renter's insurance? If you answered yes to either of these questions you need to read on. People protect their body and they protect their home, but have YOU protected your second largest financial investment...your car? Sure, you have car insurance, but it only covers structural damage to your vehicle, like bumpers, moldings, sheet metal and the like. You need to be sure you protect your investment in your vehicle for mechanical issues, technology issues and other key components.
Did you know there is more technology in your vehicle today than what was sent to the moon in Apollo 11? As vehicles become more complex, the number of components and cost of repairs will continue to rise.
Whether you bought or leased (or are considering doing so) your quality Ford, Lincoln or Mercury vehicle, you want your ownership experience to be satisfying, pleasurable and as worry-free as possible. Ford offers four extended service plan options, that will give you the peace of mind you deserve.
Ford offers Extended Service Plans (ESP) to suit every driving, vehicle and budgetary need. Whether it is the Ford Powertrain, BaseCare, ExtraCare or PremiumCare, you can choose the range of coverage that's right for you based on your individual needs. There are a lot of extended service contracts to choose from, but there's only one Ford ESP! Ford ESP is a service contract that complements your factory limited warranty. It takes the worry out of your ownership experience, worrying about an unexpected repair bill, that is!
Don't spend another day without the comfort, security and peace of mind you deserve. Call Louisburg Ford toll-free 1-877-901-4311 to speak with a finance manager to find out which plan is right for you.
Why a Ford Extended Service Plan is Right for YOU?
- Protection after the new vehicle limited warranty period expires
- It is the only Extended Service Plan backed by Ford Motor Company
- Combined with the manufacturer's limited warranty, it provides continuous, uninterrupted coverage
- Limits the cost of covers repairs to the applicable deductible
- Is transferable and can help increase resale value of your vehicle
- Provides clear and comprehensive coverage options in multiple time and mileage combinations, allowing you to tailor a plan to meet YOUR needs
- ONE Ford ESP-covered repair could end up offsetting the initial plan price, making it a smart investment
- PEACE OF MIND!
A genuine Ford ESP allows you the ability to take your vehicle to any Ford, Lincoln or Mercury dealership in the USA...nationwide! Any dealer can access your coverage through the VIN of your vehicle. You will know that your vehicle will be worked on by only certified, factory trained Ford technicians using only Ford genuine parts.
Call now, you can't afford to wait! A Louisburg Ford finance manager will provide details and pricing, call toll-free 1-877-901-4311.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
FORD FUSION NAMED 2010 MOTOR TREND CAR OF THE YEAR
DEARBORN, Mich., Nov 17, 2009--The Ford Fusion-America's most fuel-efficient midsize sedan-today was named MOTOR TREND's 2010 Car of the Year. The award comes hot on the heels of Fusion setting record-breaking sales for 2009.
"Ford has proven its resilience in these tough times by delivering to market a car with broad appeal to a broad range of consumers," said Angus MacKenzie, MOTOR TREND editor-in-chief. "The Fusion range has matured into a competitive roster of midsize sedans, able to compete with sales juggernauts such as the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. It is no surprise the Fusion now ranks in the top 10 best-selling cars in America."
The prestigious award from MOTOR TREND comes at a time when Fusion sales are already at an all-time high, further positioning the vehicle as a formidable contender in the competitive midsize sedan market.
"The MOTOR TREND Car of the Year award is another testament of our commitment to delivering a world-class car lineup, " said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Ford Global Product Development, who accepted the golden calipers on behalf of the Ford team. "Whether it is the best-in-class fuel economy or quality unsurpassed by Toyota or Honda, the Fusion and Fusion Hybrid are clear evidence that Ford is serious about our car lineup."
To win the coveted Car of the Year award, Fusion out performed the competition--including the BMW 7 series and Mercedes-Benz E-class sedan--in six new categories: design achievement, engineering excellence, intended function, efficiency, safety and value.
"The Fusion brought a vast assortment of choice that has the potential to appeal to every type of driver, from the eco-conscious to the sport-minded," said MacKenzie. "The Fusion's combination of comfort, fuel efficiency, assortment and technology made it a clear winner among our panel of judges."
The 2010 Fusion and Fusion Hybrid are the most fuel-efficient sedans in America. The new models offer more power; class-exclusive technologies, such as Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) and Ford SYNC; and more total passenger and luggage capacity than the Toyota Camry.
The Fusion lineup expanded in the 2010 model year to include all-new Hybrid and Sport models and a new selection of gas-powered engines--all paired with six-speed tranmissions--that deliver mroe horsepower and better fuel economy.
____________________
Visit Louisburg Ford today to test drive a new Fusion, The MOTOR TREND Car of the Year! Louisburg Ford is Kansas City's only Ford dealer selling vehicles at the hassle-free $50 over factory invoice pricing! Call toll-free 1-877-901-4311 to schedule an appointment today!
DEARBORN, Mich., Nov 17, 2009--The Ford Fusion-America's most fuel-efficient midsize sedan-today was named MOTOR TREND's 2010 Car of the Year. The award comes hot on the heels of Fusion setting record-breaking sales for 2009.
"Ford has proven its resilience in these tough times by delivering to market a car with broad appeal to a broad range of consumers," said Angus MacKenzie, MOTOR TREND editor-in-chief. "The Fusion range has matured into a competitive roster of midsize sedans, able to compete with sales juggernauts such as the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. It is no surprise the Fusion now ranks in the top 10 best-selling cars in America."
The prestigious award from MOTOR TREND comes at a time when Fusion sales are already at an all-time high, further positioning the vehicle as a formidable contender in the competitive midsize sedan market.
"The MOTOR TREND Car of the Year award is another testament of our commitment to delivering a world-class car lineup, " said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Ford Global Product Development, who accepted the golden calipers on behalf of the Ford team. "Whether it is the best-in-class fuel economy or quality unsurpassed by Toyota or Honda, the Fusion and Fusion Hybrid are clear evidence that Ford is serious about our car lineup."
To win the coveted Car of the Year award, Fusion out performed the competition--including the BMW 7 series and Mercedes-Benz E-class sedan--in six new categories: design achievement, engineering excellence, intended function, efficiency, safety and value.
"The Fusion brought a vast assortment of choice that has the potential to appeal to every type of driver, from the eco-conscious to the sport-minded," said MacKenzie. "The Fusion's combination of comfort, fuel efficiency, assortment and technology made it a clear winner among our panel of judges."
The 2010 Fusion and Fusion Hybrid are the most fuel-efficient sedans in America. The new models offer more power; class-exclusive technologies, such as Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) and Ford SYNC; and more total passenger and luggage capacity than the Toyota Camry.
The Fusion lineup expanded in the 2010 model year to include all-new Hybrid and Sport models and a new selection of gas-powered engines--all paired with six-speed tranmissions--that deliver mroe horsepower and better fuel economy.
____________________
Visit Louisburg Ford today to test drive a new Fusion, The MOTOR TREND Car of the Year! Louisburg Ford is Kansas City's only Ford dealer selling vehicles at the hassle-free $50 over factory invoice pricing! Call toll-free 1-877-901-4311 to schedule an appointment today!
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