Ford News from TalkFord.com

Dynamic Ford Tourneo Custom Concept Makes Global Debut At 2012 Geneva Motor Show

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 20:58:11 +0000

The dynamic new Ford Tourneo Custom Concept will make its global debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March, bringing a new level of energy and style to the European personal use vehicle segment.

Previewing the introduction of a completely new range of people movers, with commercial vehicles to follow, the Tourneo Custom Concept showcases a dramatic new look that will appeal to customers seeking style, functionality and space.

“One look at the Tourneo Custom Concept is enough to tell you that it will inject an exciting new spirit into the personal use segment,” said Stephen Odell, chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe. "Our forthcoming new range gives us the opportunity to appeal to new customers with a fresh new direction, and we have seized that opportunity with both hands.

“We are excited to present this significant new concept in Geneva. The Tourneo Custom’s car-like qualities will be appreciated by a broad range of business and leisure customers, and this is a fitting venue to present the vehicle for the first time.”

The Tourneo Custom Concept will preview a host of exciting new features, which give the vehicle strong car-like appeal.

These include an all-new interior design with driver-focused cockpit, and a luxurious, fully trimmed cabin which has the ambience and high-quality materials of a modern multi-seat saloon car.

The Concept also showcases a number of smart innovations including multi-adjustable and removable rear seating, advanced SYNC voice-activated, in-car connectivity system and the latest Ford low-CO₂ ECOnetic Technologies.

Dramatic new design language

The Tourneo Custom Concept communicates very clearly a dramatic new design direction for Ford's commercial vehicle range, which will be introduced later in 2012.

With its advanced, streamlined appearance, the concept vehicle embodies the same dynamic character as Ford’s Kinetic Design passenger cars – generating the strong sense of movement, even when the vehicle is standing still.

“We set out to create a design with clean, futuristic lines and with a real sense of occasion,” explained Paul Campbell, chief designer, Ford of Europe.

“With its sportier stance, bold rising shoulder line and flush glazing, the Tourneo Custom Concept brings something fresh and exciting to this class of people mover.

“By applying the latest Kinetic Design principles, the design has a completely new style and drama,” he added.
Signature Kinetic Design features help give the Tourneo Custom Concept its unique character, including the bold trapezoidal grille, strong and muscular shoulder line, prominent wheel lips and window lines with the distinctive kick at the rear.

The concept is further enhanced by a number of stylish details from the chrome grille surround and striking LED lighting on the front-end, to the dynamic looks of the 18-inch alloy wheels.

Luxurious car-like interior

Bringing a whole new level of car-like style and sophistication to the personal use segment, the Tourneo Custom Concept features an all-new interior design.

“We wanted to give the driver, and the rear seat passengers, an interior which has the same standards of design and quality they would experience in a modern multi-seat saloon car, but with ample space for people and luggage” explained Campbell.

“From its modern, driver-focused cockpit, to the luxurious rear cabin finished in leather, the Tourneo Custom Concept shows that interiors in this class can be both functional and attractive.”

The stylish, sculpted instrument panel is orientated around the driver, and features technologies which are closely-related to those in Ford’s car range. Like the exterior, the interior follows the same Kinetic Design approach as the latest passenger cars, such as in the taut wing-like section of the upper instrument panel.

Occupants in the rear are surrounded by space and luxury, with a fully-trimmed cabin which incorporates bold Kinetic Design detailing on the side panels which are linked to the graphical themes from the front.

The rear seats themselves are a completely new design, which can be easily folded into multiple configurations, or removed completely. This enables the interior to be easily tailored to suit business or leisure pursuits.

In the concept vehicle, the luxurious and spacious feel of the interior is further enhanced by an exclusive two-tone colour scheme, featuring hand-stitched leather seats with attractive cloth inserts.

Smart New Features

The Tourneo Custom Concept highlights that customers in the personal use market can expect the same high levels of technology which are enjoyed by Ford car drivers.
Among the smart, innovative features included on the concept are:

ECOnetic Technologies – Ford’s advanced low-CO₂ features including Auto-Start-Stop and Smart Regenerative Charging
SYNCvoice-activated, in-car connectivity system – enables mobile phones and music players to be connected to the vehicle, and controlled using voice control
Emergency Assistance – enabled by SYNC, this new feature is designed to assist occupants to contact the Emergency Services in the event of an accident, providing vehicle location information
Advanced restraint system – including driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags
Rear-view camera – integrated into the rear view mirror
Lane Departure Warning and Driver Alert – latest driver assistance features to alert the driver if the system detects the vehicle is inadvertently drifting out of the lane, or the driver is becoming tired behind the wheel

To ensure that this enhanced specification is complemented by outstanding performance and fuel economy, the concept is powered by a further improved 155 PS version of Ford’s 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine family.

The Tourneo Custom Concept is based on a new Ford global platform which has been engineered to deliver car-like dynamics, including agile, responsive handling, enhanced ride comfort and reduced noise-levels.

“Customers in the personal use market are demanding much higher levels of technology, performance and handling,” said Barry Gale, chief engineer, Ford of Europe. “This concept shows that we are taking those demands very seriously, and that customers can expect a rewarding and car-like driving experience.”

New Generation of Ford Commercial Vehicles

The debut of the Tourneo Custom Concept has added significance in heralding the arrival of a completely new generation of Ford commercial vehicles. The full range of models will be revealed during 2012.

Kicking off this major series of introductions, the Tourneo Custom Concept itself highlights a new family of Ford people movers and one-tonne vans which will be launched in Europe and other global markets, but will not be sold in North America.

This new range will be powered by enhanced versions of the new 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine, which was initially introduced in 2011; with Auto-Stop-Start technology fitted as standard, Ford is targeting best-in-class fuel economy.

Three power ratings will be available: 100 PS, 125 PS and 155 PS. All versions are paired with a six-speed manual transmission and feature front-wheel drive.

The model range will include a wide choice of body styles and two wheelbases (SWB and LWB) allowing for extra luggage or goods capability where required.

“2012 is a tremendously significant year for Ford as we begin the roll-out of a completely new range of commercial vehicles,” said Odell. “Our market-leading commercials have established a tremendous reputation for value and durability, and our new range is destined to raise this to a new level.”

Ford Tourneo Custom Concept to showcase a dramatic new look and preview introduction of an all-new family of one-ton Ford Transit people movers and commercial vehicles for Europe and Asia
The dynamic and contemporary Tourneo Custom Concept adopts the same Kinetic Design language as Ford’s latest passenger cars to take a fresh approach to space, style and functionality and target a new generation of Tourneo customers
Stylish eight-seat concept suited to personal use, lifestyle and executive shuttle sectors; car-like dynamics and comfort brought together through a driver-focused cockpit and all-new luxurious interior design
Multi-adjustable and removable rear seating can be adapted for business or leisure pursuits while innovative technologies include SYNC voice-activated, in-car connectivity system
Concept features state-of-the-art driver assist systems, and latest Ford low-CO₂ ECOnetic Technologies help target best-in-class fuel economy

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Ford's B-Max To Make Landmark Debut At Mobile World Congress

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 13:00:57 +0000

Ford Motor Company executive chairman Bill Ford will unveil the all-new B-MAX on Feb. 27 at the 2012 Mobile World Congress, in Barcelona.

Ford is the first manufacturer ever to unveil a car at the leading mobile industry event and will announce significant new technologies for Europe to be debuted on the B-MAX; these will make it one of the continent’s most technologically advanced small cars.

Bill Ford also will become the first automotive leader to deliver a keynote speech at MWC when he discusses the company’s vision for mobility in the future and explores the potential for mobile technology and vehicles to play more integrated roles.

“Revealing the B-MAX at Mobile World Congress underlines how important technology is to customers and to Ford,” said Stephen Odell, chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe. “B-MAX will raise the bar for small vehicles in Europe, combining technology and premium engineering into a compact frame.”
Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally will introduce the B-MAX to the automotive world at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show on March 6.

B-MAX will bring a unique Easy Access Door System with central body pillars integrated into the sliding rear doors to provide unrivalled access for passengers and luggage alike.

It will be powered by an engine range including a new 1.0-litre 120PS EcoBoost petrol engine and a 1.6-litre TDCi diesel engine, both of which will offer class-leading fuel economy and CO2 emissions.

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From RadioHead to Vivaldi - How Ford Perfected The Sound In The New B-Max

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 12:54:38 +0000

Every car – like every room or auditorium – has unique acoustics qualities. The size and shape of the cabin, the materials in the seats and dashboard, the ratio of glass and steel – all of it impact the sound quality in a new car.

When Ford engineers set out to fine tune the perfect sound system to match the acoustics of the new B-MAX multi-activity vehicle, they found they needed a special tool -- the perfect music playlist.

Radiohead, Black Eyed Peas, the Eagles and jazz legend John Coltrane rubbed shoulders with classical composers Vivaldi and Carl Orff on the B-MAX playlist as engineers used key moments in the songs and pieces to fine-tune the B-MAX sound system.

The classic opening to the Eagles’ anthem Hotel California features the ideal “dry” sound for testing bass, ambience and tone, says Ford of Europe audio engineer Matthias Terstegge. He should know. He has listened to it thousands of times while developing the B-MAX and other Ford cars.
He also listened out for the powerful kick bass in Black Eyed Peas' track Just Can't Get Enough to test the woofers in the B-MAX; tuning the low frequency filters in the amplifier unit to retain a strong and punchy bass sound without door buzz and rattles.

Bass sounds are evenly distributed but the treble is sensitive to seating position, so engineers tuned the tweeters using Vivaldi’s Four Seasons concertos and John Coltrane tracks to ensure a good front/rear balance. The soaring Four Seasons violins were an exacting challenge for the B-MAX’s high-frequency tweeters. If they’re not set right, the sound could have been more piercing than pleasurable.

“Creating a great-sounding system is much more than choosing a good quality amplifier and speakers,” says Terstegge, a guitarist whose passion for music and electrical engineering background led him to his current role. He compiled the B-MAX playlist from other experts’ recommendations, tracks from his own collection or a song he heard on the radio and jotted down the name.

“Each car interior has completely different acoustics, and detailed tuning can make a dramatic difference to what the driver hears,” he says. “The human ear can detect subtle differences in the sound and you can’t beat simply listening to the system for that final tuning. The tracks we use really help identify what needs tuning. But after thousands of plays, I feel like I never want to hear them again.”

The all-new Ford B-MAX; including DAB radio as standard across the range, will be available with an exclusive premium quality Sony audio system. It features eight high performance speakers and a 4 x 25 Watt Sony amplifier. Drivers can select music from the built-in CD/radio unit, including Digital Audio Broadcast, or from their own portable music players connected via USB or Bluetooth.

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Ford B-Max's Easy Access Door System

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 12:49:32 +0000

Ford has unveiled a unique door system that brings unrivalled ease-of-access to the all-new B-MAX.

Ford’s Easy Access Door System integrates the central body pillars into the doors of its multi-activity vehicle to create 1.5-metre wide unobstructed openings on either side of the car and reduce everyday motoring stress.

Most rear door openings provide around half that space. The Opel Meriva’s rear-hinged rear door offers maximum access less than 0.7 metres wide.
“Door systems like this have been a designer’s dream for many years,” said Stefan Lamm, exterior design director, Ford of Europe. “We have taken the concept from an idea on a designer’s sketch pad, to a stylish and versatile product on the showroom floor.”

“We set ourselves the challenge of re-imagining the small car,” he added. “People are struggling with the spatial challenges of city driving and we wanted to find a new solution.”

In developing the concept, a team spent several days observing drivers in their daily routine to understand exactly what customers really wanted in a compact car.

Engineers then took on the challenge of producing a safe and practical vehicle which would meet those needs. They moved the high-strength body-structure from the central body pillars and integrated it directly into the doors to ensure excellent crash protection, particularly in the event of a side impact.

Special ultra-high-strength steels, which provide up to five times the strength of conventional mild steel, were used in key parts of the body and doors to create an extremely strong and stiff structure without adding extra weight.

The process involved intense testing and analysis at every stage. More than 1,000 detailed computer simulations were conducted over three years to optimize side impact crash performance; each simulation taking 24 hours to complete and using the equivalent computer-power of eight high-end PCs. These simulations were then tested in the real world through a further 50 physical side impact crashes.

“We engineered the body to keep all the benefits of the new door concept, while making the structure strong, stiff and light,” said Darren Palmer, Product Development Quality Director, Ford of Europe. “Creating a strong, stable body is great for handling. The B-MAX is just as stiff as the latest Fiesta, and will be just as fun to drive too.”

The B-MAX interior is packed with features which take maximum advantage of the Easy Access Door System. The rear seats and the front passenger seat can be folded flat to create a large, convenient load platform, to accommodate everything from bicycles to flat-pack furniture.

“The door concept means you can load really large items, more than 2.3 meters long, through the side doors,” said Ernst Reim, Chief Interior Designer, Ford of Europe. “This makes a trip to the furniture store, or even a day at the beach with your surfboard, more realistic.”

The All-New Ford B-MAX will debut at Geneva next month and go on sale in Europe later in the year.

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Ford Cortina at 50 (1962 - 2012)

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 11:33:30 +0000

Many may realise that this year celebrates the 50th year since the launch of the Ford Cortina...

http://www.classicfo...f-the-week-552/

What association have you had with this car, have you owned any or did one feature as your family car in your youth?

New Ford B-MAX’s Easy Access Door System is ‘Car Designer’s Dream’ Come to Life

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 17:20:26 +0000

B-MAX’s ingenious hinged front doors and sliding rear doors integrate the central body pillars, providing unrivalled access for passengers and luggage
Game-changing solution is culmination of intensive collaboration between designers and engineers to transform a tentative first sketch into a fundamental feature of the production-ready B-MAX
Easy Door Access System makes loading bulky items, or helping children in and out of the car in tight spaces, a breeze, as well as delivering excellent crash protection

Ford has unveiled a unique door system that brings unrivalled ease-of-access to the all-new B-MAX.

Ford’s Easy Access Door System integrates the central body pillars into the doors of its multi-activity vehicle to create 1.5-metre wide unobstructed openings on either side of the car and reduce everyday motoring stress.

Most rear door openings provide around half that space. The Opel Meriva’s rear-hinged rear door offers maximum access less than 0.7 metres wide.
“Door systems like this have been a designer’s dream for many years,” said Stefan Lamm, exterior design director, Ford of Europe. “We have taken the concept from an idea on a designer’s sketch pad, to a stylish and versatile product on the showroom floor.”

“We set ourselves the challenge of re-imagining the small car,” he added. “People are struggling with the spatial challenges of city driving and we wanted to find a new solution.”

In developing the concept, a team spent several days observing drivers in their daily routine to understand exactly what customers really wanted in a compact car.
Engineers then took on the challenge of producing a safe and practical vehicle which would meet those needs. They moved the high-strength body-structure from the central body pillars and integrated it directly into the doors to ensure excellent crash protection, particularly in the event of a side impact.
Special ultra-high-strength steels, which provide up to five times the strength of conventional mild steel, were used in key parts of the body and doors to create an extremely strong and stiff structure without adding extra weight.

The process involved intense testing and analysis at every stage. More than 1,000 detailed computer simulations were conducted over three years to optimize side impact crash performance; each simulation taking 24 hours to complete and using the equivalent computer-power of eight high-end PCs. These simulations were then tested in the real world through a further 50 physical side impact crashes.

“We engineered the body to keep all the benefits of the new door concept, while making the structure strong, stiff and light,” said Darren Palmer, Product Development Quality Director, Ford of Europe. “Creating a strong, stable body is great for handling. The B-MAX is just as stiff as the latest Fiesta, and will be just as fun to drive too.”

The B-MAX interior is packed with features which take maximum advantage of the Easy Access Door System. The rear seats and the front passenger seat can be folded flat to create a large, convenient load platform, to accommodate everything from bicycles to flat-pack furniture.

“The door concept means you can load really large items, more than 2.3 meters long, through the side doors,” said Ernst Reim, Chief Interior Designer, Ford of Europe. “This makes a trip to the furniture store, or even a day at the beach with your surfboard, more realistic.”

The All-New Ford B-MAX will debut at Geneva next month and go on sale in Europe later in the year.

EuroNCAP Ford Focus Is 'Best In Class' Small Family Car

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 17:38:24 +0000

Euro NCAP, Europe’s leading authority on auto safety, named the Ford Focus the “Best in Class” small family car in recognition of the vehicle’s crash test rating and advanced safety technology.

The Focus scooped one of only five best in class awards on the strength of its maximum five-star Euro NCAP rating as well as four Euro NCAP Advanced rewards last year, an achievement which is unmatched by any other high-volume car (see www.euroncap.com/bestinclasscars2011.aspx).

Euro NCAP also made special mention of the new Ford Ranger after it became the safest pickup ever tested by the organisation, achieving the only five-star Euro NCAP rating awarded to a pickup. The Ranger scored highly in all areas of assessment, receiving particular credit for pedestrian protection.

“This award has special meaning because designing and building the safest vehicles possible is a core value at Ford,” said Stephen Odell, chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe. “The Focus exemplifies our approach to design cars that both help drivers avoid accidents and protect them when one is inevitable.”

The Focus five-star rating was achieved through an adult occupant score of 92 per cent, child occupant rating of 82 per cent, pedestrian score of 72 per cent and safety assist rating of 71 per cent.

The Focus received Euro NCAP Advanced rewards for these four technologies:

Driver Alert, designed to detect driver fatigue
Forward Alert, which uses radar technology to scan the road ahead and alerts the driver if a collision is likely,
Active City Stop, which helps to avoid or mitigate accidents at low speeds, and
Lane Keeping Aid technologies, which warn drivers and assists drivers who unintentionally stray from their lane.
Euro NCAP, the independent car safety organisation, named the Ford Focus Europe’s “Best in Class” small family car
The organisation cited the Focus’ five-star Euro NCAP rating and four Euro NCAP Advanced rewards for safety features as a record for a mass market car
New Ford Ranger, the safest pickup Euro NCAP has ever tested, earned special praise highlighting its achievement as the only pickup to achieve a maximum five-star rating

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Ford Extends Sales Lead In UK

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 18:51:32 +0000

UK market leader Ford has increased its car sales advantage over rivals in an almost static January market.
Ford's top-selling car range secured 15.6 per cent of the January market, up 0.3 percentage points compared with January 2011, while Ford commercial vehicles (CVs) maintained overall leadership of the CV market, according to the official sales figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT):

Ford total car sales and share increased, compared with January 2011.
Ford retail car sales and share increased, versus January 2011.
Ford Fiesta remains UK best seller, Ford Focus is No 2.
Ford commercial vehicles lead both the LCV and MCV segments.

Mark Ovenden, Ford Britain managing director, said: "Ford’s car range is proving its strong customer appeal, starting the year with a sales performance that extends our lead in total car sales including sales to private customers, an indicator that the quality of our market share also continues to be enhanced.

“This year our best-ever range of vehicles has benefitted already from the introductions of the new Ford Ranger and the highly fuel-efficient, 125PS EcoBoost engine in Ford Focus. We will continue to launch new models and ingenious technologies that meet our customers’ increasingly sophisticated needs: a typical example is the recently announced Ford B-MAX with its exciting, innovative design that provides unique access for drivers, passengers and luggage."

The official figures released by the SMMT today show that total car sales last month were up marginally 0.03 per cent to 128,853 units, compared with January 2011.

Ford car sales of 20,061 were up 2.0 per cent, from 19,657 in January 2011.

Significantly, Ford's retail car market share in January was 14.6 per cent, 1.5 percentage points up from the same month in 2011. Ford increased its retail car sales lead over its nearest rival by 69 per cent, from 2,268 to 3,843, and it increased its total car sales lead 83 per cent, from 4,346 to 7,951.

Sales of the UK’s best-selling Ford Fiesta range were 7,824 - up from 5,844 in January 2011. Fiesta also increased its share of car sales from 4.5 per cent to 6.1 per cent. There were also increases in sales and share for the Ford Ka, the Ford C-MAX range and the Ford Mondeo.

UK commercial vehicle sales were down 7.6 per cent, compared with January 2011. The LCV and MCV segments in which Ford competes were down 58.9 and 9.9 per cent, respectively. Sales of Ford commercials in January were down from 4,675 to 3,845, compared with the same month last year.

Ford medium commercials, headed by the industry-leading Ford Transit, accounted for around one-in-four sales in that segment in January. Ford’s share of MCV sales was 24.3 per cent, down from 27.3 per cent in January 2011. Ford’s share of light commercial sales was 48.7 per cent, up from 21.9 per cent in January 2011.

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Ford Mondeo Is What Car? Best Family And Estate Car For Second Year Running

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:28:42 +0000

The Ford Mondeo picked up two accolades at the What Car? 2012 awards, being declared both the UK's best family car and the best estate car for the second consecutive year.

The best family car award went to the Ford Mondeo 1.6 TDCi 115PS Zetec, with the UK's most popular car buyer's guide naming the Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCi 140PS Zetec the best estate – repeating the car's double success at the What Car? Awards last year and also in 2009.

Chas Hallett, What Car? editor-in-chief, said: "The Ford Mondeo has plenty of fresh rivals, but it’s such a strong package that it picks up two more awards this year, for best estate car and top family car. Ford has worked hard to keep the Mondeo refreshed and it has succeeded; this is still a great all-round package, either as a hatchback or an estate."
Last year the Ford Mondeo was updated adding external refinements, heightened interior craftsmanship and new hi-tech features.

The winning Zetec model accounts for 38 per cent of sales in the UK, with the standard specification including 16in alloy wheels, advanced Bluetooth^® hands-free and voice control system, cruise control, adjustable speed limiter, Quick Clear heated windscreen, leather trimmed steering wheel and gear knob, electronic stability programme with traction control and Emergency Brake Assist, electrically operated and heated door mirrors with integral indicators and Thatcham approved alarm.

Mark Ovenden, Ford Britain managing director, said: "Ford are delighted that Mondeo has once again been recognised as the best all-rounder. Appealing to family and business executives alike thanks to its elegant exterior styling and wealth of technology features, it also offers new powertrains which meet the low-carbon needs of our customers.”
Fitted with auto start-stop as standard, the 1.6-litre TDCi engine returns over 65mpg and emits only 114g/km CO₂ whilst the turbocharged 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine is capable of 134mph, delivers 41.5mpg and emits 149g/km CO₂."
The award-winning Ford Mondeo range is priced from £17,795 on the road.

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Ford C-Max Lifts Businesscar Award As Sales Double

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:24:02 +0000

The new Ford C-MAX range has marked surging sales by picking up its first BusinessCar award.
The five-seat Ford C-MAX and its seven-seat Grand C-MAX sibling attracted accolades in recognition of their style, efficiency and practicality according to BusinessCar readers.

In their first full year on sale, almost 19,000 Ford C-MAX models were sold in 2011 in the UK, compared with 8,357 the prior year.

Their success meant Ford C-MAX constituted almost one in five of all compact MPVs registered in the UK last year – up from 7.6 per cent in 2010.

There was also good news at the BusinessCar awards for Ford’s larger S-MAX MPV, which was declared best MPV for the sixth year running. Launched in 2006, Ford S-MAX has won the title every year since.
BusinessCar editor Paul Barker said: "Ford has deservedly taken both MPV awards thanks to a pair of products that successfully combine practicality and efficiency with a sense of style not previously available in a sector aimed squarely at family transport.

"Both the Ford C-MAX and S-MAX offer good running costs as well as great handling and are deserved winners of this award, decided by the readers of BusinessCar – the very people using these products for their business and their company drivers."

Kevin Griffin, Ford Britain fleet director, welcomed the awards: “Our new Ford C-MAX proves that even in an extremely competitive market and difficult economy, customers respond to great new vehicles. The only way to double sales and share in a year is to win new customers from the competition and that’s what C-MAX is doing, while S-MAX has carved itself a whole new segment – the sports seven-seat coupé.”

The seven-seat Ford Grand C-MAX accounts for 40 per cent of overall C-MAX volumes in the UK. Twin rear sliding doors reveal an innovative walk-through seating concept, where the second row middle seat folds under the outer seat to enable easy access to the third row.

Ford C-MAX, available from £17,445, will this year become available with the new ultra-efficient 1.0-litre 125PS Ford EcoBoost petrol engine, which combines impressive performance with outstanding fuel economy and CO₂ emissions.

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Ford Closes It's Centenary Year As UK Market Leader

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:21:19 +0000

Ford of Britain’s centenary year in 2011 also marked 35 consecutive years of car sales leadership for the blue oval and 46 years of UK commercial vehicle (CV) sales leadership.

Ford's top-selling vehicle range secured 15 per cent of the UK's total 2011 market for the blue oval. Other highlights of the official full-year 2011 figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) include:

Ford is the number one UK car brand for 35 successive years.
Ford commercial vehicles have been the UK's favourite for 46 years.
Ford Fiesta is the UK best seller for the third successive year.
The new Ford Focus and C-MAX ranges record significant sales and share increases, compared with 2010.
All Ford CV models record sales increases, compared with 2010.

According to the official SMMT figures full year car sales in the UK were down 4.4 per cent at 1,941,253 registrations. Ford sold 265,894 cars in the UK last year, down from 280,364 in 2010, during an intensely competitive trading period.
Ford Fiesta was the UK car sales leader again in 2011, having taken the position from the Ford Focus in 2009, with 96,112 registrations. In its launch year, the new Ford Focus increased sales from 77,804 to 81,832, compared with 2010, and the new Ford C-MAX and Grand C-MAX combined to more than double sales from 8,357 to 18,925, compared with full year 2010 C-MAX sales.
Ford Transit has led the UK CV sector from its launch in 1965. The Transit helped account for a significant growth in Ford CV sales in 2011, totalling 71,607, up from 62,308 in 2010. Ford Transit sales alone were up from 46,300 in 2010 to 56,363 in 2011, representative of sales increases across the whole Ford CV range in 2011. Apart from Transit, Ford Fiesta Van, Ford Transit Connect and Ford Ranger all increased sales.

The official figures released by the SMMT today show that in December UK car sales were down by 3.7 per cent to 119,188 units, compared with December 2010. Ford car sales were 14,689, up from 13,953 in December 2009 and Ford's overall share of car sales was 12.3 per cent for the month, up from 11.3 per cent in December 2010.
The Ford Fiesta was the UK no 1 best seller in December and the Ford Fiesta, Ford C-MAX and Ford Galaxy all registered overall sales and share increases, compared with December 2010.

Mark Ovenden, Ford Britain managing director, said: "Ford's 2011 sales performance benefitted from a combination of our best-ever range of vehicles, advanced technology engines, including the new low-CO₂ EcoBoost engines, and the unrivalled strength of our dealer network.
“More people choose Ford over any other vehicle brand in the UK and as weface economic uncertainty and intense competition in 2012 we will look to satisfy the needs of our private and business customers through the introduction of a number of new models and technologies, starting with the launch of the new Ford Ranger and the introduction of the 1.0-litre, three-cylinder EcoBoost engine in Ford Focus."

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Ford Offers Santa An ECOboost Powered Concept Sleigh

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:18:33 +0000

Leading car company Ford is offering to make it a greener Christmas with a concept sleigh that would dramatically downsize Santa’s carbon footprint.

Santa’s new ride, packed with cutting-edge Ford technology, would allow Rudolph and friends to enjoy a well-deserved retirement while Santa makes his annual deliveries with style in an environmentally friendly new sleigh.
“They may look cute, but Santa’s team of nine reindeer¹ create a staggering 214,670 tons of CO₂ equivalent emissions each year, so something had to be done to help him re-discover his greener roots²,” said Ford car designer Paul Wraith.
The benefits of switching to the concept sleigh go beyond the environmental. Travelling such huge distances – some 200,237,360 km – means Santa currently spends in excess of £122 million on carrots to fuel his reindeer each year. The impressive fuel efficiency of the 1 litre EcoBoost would reduce Santa’s fuel costs by 90% to just £12 million.
Whilst Santa himself was unavailable for comment, Mrs Claus explained: “I am not looking forward to telling Donner and Blitzen the news, but the polar bears in the North Pole will certainly welcome the Ford EcoBoost-powered sleigh.”
Mrs Claus continues: “l would of course back anything that means my husband can get home that bit quicker. Getting presents in a shorter amount of time to all the good children each year may even give him time to reconsider a few names on the naughty list. But I can’t promise.”
Innovative engineering means the new EcoBoost engine delivers performance to rival a traditional 1.6-litre engine but with significantly improved fuel efficiency and lower CO₂ emissions of just 114g/km CO₂.
The 1.0-litre EcoBoost cylinder block also fits onto a single sheet of A4 paper, but still delivers up to 125PS and 170Nm peak torque (with 200Nm overboost), giving it the highest power density of any Ford production engine to date.
“Our tongue may be firmly in cheek as we launch this sleigh design, but our heart is in the right place,” Wraith said. “At Ford, we’re dreaming of a Green Christmas. We’re already thinking of the concept sleigh mark II. With electric vehicle battery technology developing all the time, we are keen to get to work on a zero-carbon version of our sleigh.”
The redesigned sleigh also incorporates other cutting edge Ford technologies. Highlights include:

Active park assist: Clever technology that first checks if a parking space is big enough, then automatically steers your car/sleigh in. Useful for Santa in making those tight reverse rooftop landings.
Door edge protector: A simple, but ingenious addition to Ford doors, helping thwart dents, dings and scratches even in the tightest parking spot. Vital to help Santa stop scratching the door of his sleigh on all those annoying chimneys.
SYNC: A sophisticated in-car, voice-activated technology system, that can be easily personalised. This will help Santa keep in touch with the elves back at base, stay en route with GPS navigation and enable him to listen to and change, his favourite Christmas music.
EcoMode: In-car software that provides useful advice for drivers on achieving better fuel economy tailored to their individual driving styles. A specially modified version of the software will include an electronic Christmas tree image. The better Santa’s green driving performance, the more of the trees branch symbols will light-up.
Active City Stop & Blind Spot Information System: Two driver assistance technologies, the first assists drivers in slow moving traffic by detecting if the car in front unexpectedly stops and braking automatically in response, whilst the second helps detect vehicles in blind spots during normal driving. Both will be useful to Santa, as he tries to avoid planes in our increasingly crowded skies.
MyKey: Enabling car owners to encourage their teenagers (or elves) to drive safer and more fuel efficiently, with increased safety-belt usage, through a range of driver specific configurable features.
1 litre EcoBoost engine: As outlined, helping ensure the engine powering Santa’s sleigh is green, lean, mean and compact.

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FORD'S 1.0-LITRE ECOBOOST TURBO PETROL ENGINE DEBUTS IN ALL-NEW FOCUS

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 19:01:02 +0000

Unique new 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine offered across Ford Focus range
Up to 125PS – same as 1.6 naturally-aspirated engine
Fuel economy of up to 58.9mpg
CO2 emissions as low as 109g/km, resulting in zero road tax (VED) in first year
Maximum engine torque of 170Nm between 1,400 and 4,500rpm exceeds 1.6-litre for excellent drivability
Developed by UK-based engineers at Dunton and Dagenham

Ford’s high tech, ultra-efficient, turbocharged, direct injection 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine goes on sale across the Ford Focus range in the UK next month. This unique, industry-first EcoBoost engine delivers performance to rival a traditional 1.6-litre engine with significantly improved fuel efficiency and class-leading ultra-low CO2 emissions.

The 1.0-litre, three-cylinder EcoBoost engine is available with two power levels – in the five-door Focus at 125PS it delivers a combined fuel economy of 56.5mpg and low petrol CO2 emissions of 114g/km (a level unmatched by Focus competitors with similar power outputs), while the 100PS version delivers a combined fuel economy of 58.9mpg and outright best-in-class petrol CO2 emissions of 109g/km.

Around 200 UK engineers based at Dunton and Dagenham successfully developed a powertrain which not only leads on fuel economy but also delivers the refined and spirited driving performance that customers have come to expect from Ford.

Though the 1.0-litre EcoBoost cylinder block can fit onto a sheet of A4 paper it delivers up to 125PS and 170Nm peak torque (200Nm with overboost) between 1,400 and 4,500rpm, giving it the highest power density of any Ford production engine to date.

Graham Hoare, European executive powertrain director based at Dunton, said: "This is the third addition to our acclaimed EcoBoost engine family. Joining the 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre EcoBoost engines which span 150PS to 240PS, this 1.0-litre EcoBoost signals a new era of downsized, super frugal engines for the sub-130PS segment. During development our UK engineers focused on improving thermal efficiency and reducing friction of the engine's internal moving parts, especially during warm-up."

Customer savings

In addition to the customer benefits resulting from improved fuel consumption and petrol being up to 10p per litre cheaper than diesel, the lower CO2 emissions translate into direct customer savings. The 100PS and 125PS version will both qualify for zero vehicle excise duty in the first year and then £20 (100PS) and £30 (125PS) per annum thereafter. Compared with the current 1.6-litre 105PS and 125PS engines, this represents savings of £115 in year one and £95 and £85 respectively in subsequent years.

Company car drivers will see attractive benefit-in-kind rates of only 13 per cent in 2012/2013 equating to savings on a Focus Zetec of up to £32 per month at the 40 per cent tax level versus the current 1.6-litre 105 and 125PS engines.

Mark Ovenden, Ford Britain managing director, said: “Gone are the days when the number of cylinders dictates performance. This highly efficient, technically advanced powertrain is not only great fun to drive, but it delivers fuel economy improvements and ultra-low CO2 emissions which lead to real world cost savings for our customers.”

New Ford Focus range is priced from £13,995 on the road. The latest price list, effective 22 February 2012, introducing Focus with the 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine, is attached. This engine is priced £250 (on the road) above the 1.6-litre 125PS engine and will subsequently feature in Ford C-MAX, Grand C-MAX and all-new Ford B-MAX later this year.

Ford Mondeo Mk5 - Further detailed information (Fusion based)

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 11:00:00 +0000

Revealed in N America as the midsize Ford Fusion, this all-new car signals the next-generation Ford Mondeo for world markets. While it goes on sale in N America this year, the new Mondeo version pictured is due in Europe in the first quarter of 2013. As a result the detail below relates to Fusion and more on the Mondeo will come closer to launch.

New Ford Fusion is the first sedan to offer gasoline, hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, each with expected top fuel economy, underscoring Ford’s commitment to give customers the power of choice
With seven must-have technologies, including a Lane Keeping System, adaptive cruise control, active park assist and MyFord Touch®, the all-new Ford Fusion shows how Ford is delivering features customers truly want and value

Customers can choose from Fusion’s widest-ever portfolio of fuel-efficient powertrain options including EcoBoost™, hybrid and plug-in hybrid engines; automatic and manual transmission offerings and auto start-stop technology

Ford’s all-new Fusion brings alive the next generation of more expressive vehicles from Ford and is the first sedan to offer gasoline, hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions – each expected to deliver top fuel economy and an engaging driving experience.

Featuring a sleek silhouette and fresh face, the all-new Fusion is the latest in a series of vehicles from Ford – following the 2011 Fiesta subcompact and 2012 Focus small cars – developed to satisfy customers everywhere looking for leading fuel efficiency, helpful technologies and game-changing looks.

“Our vision for Fusion was clear – deliver the very best of what ‘One Ford’ stands for,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president of Global Product Development. “We brought our global teams together around a blank slate with the charge to develop a midsize car with ground- breaking design and jaw-dropping fuel economy – one that featured technologies to help make our customers safer and better drivers. This car is the result.”

Fusion is revealed in North America in S, SE and range-topping Titanium series and points to the next Ford Mondeo for world markets.

For more information on the importance of the midsize car market, please follow this link:

Triple-crown fuel efficiency

New Fusion is expected to deliver best-in-class fuel economy across customers’ choice of gasoline, hybrid and plug-in hybrid sub-segments, delivering on Ford’s commitment to be the fuel-efficiency leader – or among the leaders – with each new model brought to market.

Fusion brings the broadest selection of fuel-efficient powertrains in the midsize car segment. It offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid alternatives, a pair of EcoBoost™ four-cylinder engines, a normally aspirated four-cylinder engine, an automatic start stop system to shut off the engine at stationary idle, front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive applications, and a choice between automatic and manually shifted six-speed transmissions.

The 1.6-liter EcoBoost is expected to deliver best-in-class four-cylinder non-hybrid fuel efficiency of 26 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. The 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine – paired with a paddle-shifted six-speed SelectShift Automatic™ transmission, available 19-inch wheels and tires and all-wheel drive with the ability to send additional torque to the rear – is the Fusion performance option.

The Fusion Hybrid – 2010 North American Car of the Year – continues to innovate and evolve with all-new lithium-ion batteries that save weight and generate more power than previous nickel-metal hydride batteries, while raising maximum speed under electric-only power from 47 mph to 62 mph.

Fusion Hybrid also features an all-new 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder gasoline engine, significantly downsized from the previous 2.5-liter unit while maintaining performance standards. This innovative powertrain is anticipated to deliver best-in-class fuel economy of 47 mpg in city driving and 44 mpg on the highway.

Fusion Hybrid fuel economy stands to outperform the 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid by 4 mpg city and 5 mpg highway and the 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid by 12 mpg and 4 mpg, respectively.

Topping the fuel-efficiency ladder is the Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid, aiming to be the most fuel-efficient midsize car in the world. Arriving this fall, Fusion Energi is anticipated to deliver more than 100 MPGe, a mile per gallon equivalency metric for electrified vehicles. This is 8 MPGe more than the Chevrolet Volt and 13 MPGe more than the projected efficiency of the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid model.

The next-generation Fusion 1.6-liter is the first automatic-transmission Ford product offered with an automatic start-stop system. It shuts off engine power smoothly when the car is stopped and seamlessly restarts as the driver releases the brake pedal, helping Fusion to reduce fuel consumption and emissions by approximately 3.5 percent.

Fusion looks out for you

The all-new Fusion offers an unprecedented portfolio of driver assistance and convenience technologies based on sensors, cameras and radar that enable the car to see and respond.

Fusion can help drivers maintain proper lane position, adjust vehicle speed to changing traffic conditions, identify suitable parking spaces and help park, even aiding drivers backing out of parking space where visibility is obstructed. Specific technologies include:

Lane Keeping System: This class-exclusive technology consists of three elements to help a driver maintain proper lane position. Using a small, forward-facing camera behind the inside rearview mirror, the system “looks” down the road, monitoring lane lines to determine that the car is on course. The system will alert a driver if drowsiness or erratic lane-keeping is detected. The second element warns a driver with a steering wheel vibration if the Fusion drifts too close to lane markings. Finally, lane keeping aid will actually apply pressure on the steering to help bring the car back into proper lane position
Adaptive cruise control: Using forward-looking radar, this system “looks” down the road when activated, slowing the Fusion when slower traffic is detected ahead. Adaptive cruise control enables collision warning with brake support to help slow the car if the potential of a crash is detected
Active park assist: Employing sensors, this technology can identify a suitable parallel parking space, calculate the trajectory and steer the car to properly position it within the spot. All a driver need do is operate accelerator and brake pedals
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with cross-traffic alert: Sensors in both Fusion rear quarter-panels are able to detect traffic in a driver’s blind spot, providing both audible and visual warnings if traffic – unseen by the driver – is detected. BLIS technology enables cross-traffic alert, warning the driver of oncoming traffic when backing out of a parking space with obstructed views, such as between two large vans

The power of voice

The all-new Fusion offers the latest iteration of Ford’s award-winning, industry-exclusive SYNC® communications and entertainment system, which enables voice-activated communication through a driver’s mobile phone and interaction with the car’s audio system.

Fusion also offers the latest version of MyFord Touch®, allowing a driver to interact with vehicle systems through voice control, a touch screen tap or a conventional button.

Both SYNC and MyFord Touch – powered by SYNC – help reduce the potential for driver distraction through voice-controlled functionality, allowing drivers to keep hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.

Different, by design

“The previous Fusion was an easy purchase for a customer to rationalize,” said Chris Hamilton, chief exterior designer for the next-generation model. “Our design goal for the new car was to give the mainstream sedan buyer a top-drawer visual experience, adding some emotional appeal to an already sensible choice.”

These five elements provided direction for the design team behind the all-new Fusion:

Silhouette innovation: Fusion’s sleek profile sets it apart from the powertrain/cabin/trunk “three-box” designs synonymous with midsize sedans
Perceived efficiency: Fusion character lines sweeping to the rear and thin roof pillars suggest the car is nimble and light on its feet
Refined surface language: Fusion demonstrates that a tasteful, well-executed design does not require add-ons or visual clutter
Technical graphics: Fusion’s functional design elements such as headlamps, LED taillamps and polished exhaust tips communicate enhanced technological capability
New face: Fusion signals the next evolution in Ford global design language for midsize cars and smaller

Inside, the new Fusion offers a sporty, driver-oriented environment with next-generation seating that brings expanded functionality. A higher center console supports the driver-centric theme and yields clever storage for items a driver wants to keep handy.

Additional passenger space was designed-in by moving the instrument panel toward the windshield, contributing to the cabin’s airy, open environment. Thinner, lighter frames support comfortable next-generation seats trimmed with fabric using recycled sustainable yarns.

Craftsmanship plus dynamics equals feel

Fusion design delivers on the promise of high visual quality, with improved materials, elevated levels of craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Interior surfaces are softer to the touch and interior and exterior gaps are minimized, while extra care has been taken to upholster or cover each edge and every surface a customer can touch. When the trunk lid is opened, for example, a spring-loaded cover automatically conceals the trunk latch hardware.

“The holistic goal of our craftsmanship process is to see that Fusion not only delivers a superior visual experience but also feels like quality to the customer,” said Adrian Whittle, Fusion chief engineer.

Key contributors to how the Fusion feels are the ride and handling components that maximize vehicle dynamics.

“This really is a driver’s car,” said John Jraiche, program manager. “Fusion is even more fun to drive with specially tuned electric power-assisted steering (EPAS), a MacPherson strut front suspension and an all-new premium-level multilink rear suspension – comparable to Audi and BMW configurations.”

Careful tuning by Ford’s vehicle handling and ride team has yielded a Fusion with a dynamic character that will please a well-seasoned enthusiast while increasing the confidence level of less-experienced drivers.

Fusion interior quiet reaches a new level with acoustic underbody shields and weight-saving sound-absorption material; both minimize road and powertrain noise while boosting aerodynamic efficiency to help save fuel. The all-new model adds content such as a full-perimeter hood seal to be among the midsize sedan segment leaders in giving drivers a quiet ride.

Fusion Hybrid and Fusion Energi models also are equipped with active noise control. This feature uses the audio system to mitigate extraneous road noise while enhancing powertrain sounds.

Strength and safety

Fusion is designed with customer safety in mind. Engineers increased its body strength by 10 percent, using more high-strength steels such as boron, and added dual first-row knee airbags and adaptive front airbags that vent and tether to conform to a specific occupant’s size, position and seatbelt usage.

The Fusion safety team targeted top-of-the-line ratings in each public domain safety benchmark, including National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ratings, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick and top ratings in world markets where the car will be sold.

The most prominent example is Fusion’s front-end architecture, as the same car must face simultaneous – and seemingly conflictive – standards across regions. The car’s front end is equipped to meet head-on and offset barrier standards for North America while still conforming to European standards for pedestrian protection – thanks to hours of computer modeling and 180 validating crash tests.

Fusion will be produced at Ford’s Hermosillo, Mexico, manufacturing facility, soon adding production at AutoAlliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Mich. The car will appear in Ford showrooms in North America and South America later this year. Mondeo will be introduced next year in Asia and Europe.

Ford Mondeo Mk5 - Official Photos, First Look

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 09:02:25 +0000

Photos have been released of what will be the new Mondeo Mk5. This is heavily based on the new American Fusion, of which details have been released today. The new Mondeo Mk5 will be very, very similar, albeit RHD!

Enjoy

New Ford USB Music Box

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 19:24:26 +0000

As anyone who has spent a long journey endlessly flicking through radio stations will testify, sometimes only your own music collection will do.

But if your vehicle doesn’t have a factory-fitted USB port, connecting your MP3 player can often result in a maze of wires, inferior sound quality, and no remote control function. Now Ford is offering an aftermarket accessory that provides the solution – the USB Music Box.

Offered through Ford dealers across the UK, the USB Music Box enables drivers and their passengers to plug their MP3 player, or any USB mass storage device, into the car and listen to their choice of music in razor sharp quality.

Axel Wilke, director, Vehicle Personalisation, Ford Customer Service Division Europe, explained: “Many of our newer vehicles are fitted with a USB port as standard, but drivers of older vehicles don’t have to miss out anymore. The USB Music Box lets you connect any USB mass storage device, it produces a great sound quality very similar to that of the radio - and it also gives you the ability to flick between songs and albums via the controls on their steering wheel. And it can charge the device too.”

The USB Music Box consists of a USB socket, which can be placed out of sight in the glove compartment, centre console or armrest. Any USB mass storage device, such as a mobile phone, MP3 player or USB stick, can be connected. Stored music can then be played through the AUX channel on the car’s stereo. Songs, albums and folders can be selected through the steering wheel-mounted controls, while devices such as mobile phones, MP3 players and cameras will automatically recharge whenever they are connected.

Simple Plug and Play wiring means the device can be fitted and ready to play your favourite tunes in less than an hour.

Specifications:

The USB Music Box is compatible with all Ford audio and navigation systems with AUX button in these models:

Fiesta: 2006 - 2008

Fusion: from 2006

Focus: 2004 - 2011

C-MAX: 2003 - 2010

Kuga

Mondeo: from 2004

S-MAX

Galaxy: from 2006

Transit Connect: from 2006

Transit: from 2006

It is available in the UK from January 1, 2012 at the recommended retail price of £82.99 (including VAT, excluding dealer fitment charges).

Ford USB Music Box is an aftermarket accessory enabling drivers of vehicles without a factory-fitted USB port, to connect any USB mass storage device to their vehicle’s stereo
Songs and albums can be selected via the steering wheel-mounted controls
Devices such as phones and MP3 players recharge when connected

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New Plant Managed For Ford Southampton

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 19:53:40 +0000

Ford’s former Bridgend engine production manager, John Oldham, has been appointed as the new plant manager at Ford Southampton, UK home of the Ford Transit.

John Oldham started his Ford career as an electrician at the Bridgend plant in Wales in 1980. He subsequently held various manufacturing roles within Ford before this latest move to Southampton.

On his new appointment John said: "I am excited about joining the great team at Southampton and looking forward to being a part of its future. It is a real privilege to be associated with one of the world’s best known commercial vehicle brands, and to work at a plant with such a proud history."

John, who lives with his wife and two children in West Wales, succeeds Thomas Fischer who left the company earlier in the year.

Ford Southampton builds around 30,000 Ford Transit vans a year and employs more than 600 staff. The next generation Transit chassis cab will be built at Southampton when production of the current generation model finishes.

The Transit van is Ford’s third best-selling vehicle in the UK after Fiesta and Focus, and continues to lead the CV market in the UK.

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Ford UK Graduates Compete In Apprentice-Style Challenge

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 19:20:13 +0000

Ford’s latest intake of graduate trainees used techniques inspired by the popular BBC television show “The Apprentice” to prove out new skills and learning. The young Ford graduates competed head-to-head across a variety of challenges including gathering of sales leads, and even selling vehicles to shoppers, to test their individual skills.

Two teams, each made up of seven Marketing, Sales and Service graduates, who joined Ford this year, were to organise an event aimed at capturing data, increasing footfall and generating sales interest for a local Ford dealership group.

One of the teams, designated “Team Evos” after Ford’s latest concept car, combined an online campaign utilising social media with a one-day event at Lakeside Shopping Centre in Essex. They set up a temporary stand showcasing an all-new Ford Focus car, a Ford Focus Kinect video game, and videos on current and future Ford products, to engage with over 400 potential customers.

Anthony Ireson, Ford of Britain marketing director, commented: “This Ford competition was aimed at putting our new graduates outside their comfort zones and testing the skills they have learned so far.

“It is the first time that Ford of Britain has run such a challenge, and is testament to our on-going recruitment commitment in the UK, where we directly employ over 15,000 people and indirectly support a further 85,000 jobs.”

The Ford UK graduate programme is one of several Ford employment projects running, including Ford’s apprenticeship programme, Ford vacation trainee placements, Ford business placements, Ford work experience placements and the soon to be launched Ford Blue Oval Scholarship Programme.

More information available at: http://www.ford.co.uk/FordCareers

There are currently more than 120 Ford UK apprentices working in Ford facilities in the UK.
Ford of Britain recruited over 100 graduate employees in 2011.
More than 30 Ford of Britain internships and work placements run per year at Ford in Britain.

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Ford Vehicle Security Experts Ho-Ho-Home In On Christmas Car Crooks

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 19:18:24 +0000

Ford Motor Company, working closely with police agencies, has developed technologies that help thwart car thieves bent on cashing-in this Christmas season.

Aware that Christmas shoppers often return to their vehicles to drop off purchases mid-shopping spree, criminals sometimes use a signal jammer operating on the same frequency as vehicle locking systems to block cars from being successfully locked. Criminals are then able to loot the vehicles unhindered.

Ford’s Vehicle Security Department team in Dunton, England, has developed technology to stay one step ahead of the criminals. For example, Ford vehicles equipped with Keyless Entry remote central locking – Fiesta, Focus, C-MAX, S-MAX, Mondeo and Galaxy – can detect whether a locking command has been successful, and if not, will resend the command at a different frequency.

“Winter, and the festive season in particular, can be a lucrative period for both organised car criminals and opportunist thieves,” says Simon Hurr, Vehicle Security specialist, Ford of Europe. “As a former police special sergeant, I have witnessed first-hand just how crafty car criminals can be and the distress their actions can bring to victims.

“Working with the police to analyse trends in car crime and the methods used by criminals, enables us to develop ways to prevent thieves from spoiling what should be the happiest time of year for Ford owners.”

Dark Christmas nights can be perfect for another activity that’s sure to earn car criminals a place on Santa’s naughty list – the “smash and grab”; a criminal technique as old as car crime itself but one that shows no signs of waning.

The Thatcham Category 1 volume-sensing alarm available for the Focus, C-MAX, S-MAX, Kuga, Mondeo and Galaxy can detect a thief entering through a window and deliver a high-volume warning to deter intruders and attract attention to the crime.

In the past year, 1,189,000 British car owners were victims of car crime according to the British Crime Survey 2010/11, with 70 per cent suffering thefts of goods from the car with an average value of £202.

“Strong security systems are an essential component in the battle against car crime, so we are delighted that Ford’s Vehicle Security Department works alongside police car crime experts to understand the latest criminal techniques and car crime trends,” says DCI Mark Hooper, head of unit for the UK’s Association of Chief Police Officers Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service.

“This relationship helps Ford experts develop more effective vehicle security systems that benefit car owners and assist police forces by reducing opportunities for car criminals to strike.”

Car crime is not a problem restricted to the festive season, but dark nights combined with bustling towns and shopping centres full of distracted car-owners with plenty on their to-do lists are elements that play into the hands of increasingly cunning car criminals severely lacking in Christmas spirit.

“In 2011, criminals succeeded in staying one-step ahead of their victims, but by working in partnership with their customers Ford is making a valuable contribution to customer vehicle security,” says Mike Briggs, Vehicle Security manager at Thatcham, the UK insurer funded automotive research centre.

“Owners have a responsibility to ensure their vehicles are protected; in particular by paying careful attention to keeping their vehicle keys secure at all times. Christmas is already an expensive and busy time of year – by working together Ford and their customers can avoid additional stress and help prevent vehicle crime over the festive period.”

Ford’s Vehicle Security Department develops high-tech systems that help prevent car thieves from stealing at Christmas
Ford works with police agencies to monitor evolving tactics used by car thieves and uses the input to develop its security systems
Multi-frequency locking systems and volume-sensing alarm are among Ford’s tools to reduce car crime

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Ford Apprentices "Make It In Great Britain"

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 19:16:16 +0000

Ford’s UK-based apprentices involved with the design, development and production of high-technology engines supported the launch of the Government’s new “Make it in Great Britain” initiative, which aims to transform the image of UK manufacturing and to raise awareness of its importance for the economy.

The Ford apprentices, working through the four-year in-house apprenticeship programme are based at Ford’s diesel engine production plant at Dagenham and at Ford Bridgend in Wales where petrol engine production is centred.

Business Secretary, Vince Cable, and Business Minister, Mark Prisk, launched the campaign at the Department for Business, Innovations and Skills in Westminster, London recently, where industry experts, apprentices and prospective future engineers met to discuss modern manufacturing and careers.

Vince Cable said: “Manufacturing is our most exportable sector and is at the heart of our long term economic vision. We have outstanding manufacturing companies, both large and small and today I want to call on them to join us in being part of the Make it in Great Britain campaign.”

In supporting the campaign, Joe Greenwell, chairman, Ford of Britain became one of the first ‘industry champions’.

“I am very happy to represent Ford during the Government’s Make it in Great Britain campaign,” he said. “Ford has a strong manufacturing reputation in the UK and today builds nearly two million engines annually at our Bridgend and Dagenham engine plants, 30,000 Ford Transit Vans at Southampton, and over 500,000 transmissions at Halewood transmission plant, as part of the Getrag-Ford joint venture.”

Make it in Great Britain will culminate at the Science Museum during the Olympic Games in 2012, with an exhibition highlighting the success of UK manufacturing and encouraging younger people to consider a career in the industry.

For more information please visit www.bis.gov.uk/makeitingreatbritain

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Ford Maintains UK Market Lead In November

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 18:52:31 +0000

Ford’s UK market lead was underpinned in November by a significant uplift in commercial vehicle (CV) sales, which saw increased demand for Ford Fiesta Van and Ford Transit, compared with November 2010.

Official figures released today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show that total UK car sales in November, compared with November 2010, were down 4.2 per cent at 134,027 units. Ford's car share for November was 13.5 per cent and it sold 18,101 units, down 7.8 per cent from November 2010.

The Ford Fiesta was the UK best seller in November and the Ford Fiesta and the Ford Focus continued as the No 1 and 2 top sellers for the year to date. Ford Transit is the perennial UK CV sales leader, capturing 22.1 per cent of sales in the medium CV sector in November and 24.5 per cent for the year to date.

Ford C-MAX, Ford Kuga and Ford Galaxy all recorded sales and share increases in November, compared with November 2010. Ford C-MAX sales were up from 666 to 2,050; Ford Kuga sales increased from 875 to 917; and Ford Galaxy sales went from 729 to 822. Ford's share of retail car sales for the year to date increased from 11.7 to 12.2 per cent.

Ford Fiesta Van, with sales up from 286 to 400, and Ford Transit, up from 3,837 to 4,696, compared with November 2010, were the top CV performers for Ford in November. Ford’s 46th consecutive year of UK CV sales leadership has been marked by total Ford CV sales for the year to date increasing to 67,701 from 57,639, compared with the same period last year. Ford Transit sales for the year to date are 53,389, up from 42,682 in 2010.

“A combination of our best-ever range of vehicles and state-of-the-art engines, including the new low-CO2 EcoBoost engines, means that more customers continue to choose Ford than any other vehicle brand in the UK,” said Mark Ovenden, Ford of Britain managing director. “To continue to retain market leadership in the face of economic uncertainty and intense competition requires great cars and vans, great value and great service from our dealer partners, all of which we continue to deliver for our private and business customers.”

Ford overall UK sales leader in November and year to date.
Ford Fiesta is the UK No 1 best seller for November and year to date.
Ford total CV sales up from November 2010.

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Ford Transit Wins Best Medium Commerical From What Van?

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 18:48:33 +0000

The UK’s top-selling van has received another accolade from leading magazine What Van?, declaring the Ford Transit best medium van 2012.

The Ford Fiesta Van, the Ford Transit One Stop Shop programme and Ford’s ECOnetic technologies were also highly commended.

Paul Barker, editor of What Van? said: "The new Stage 5 Ford Transit has made impressive improvements to the UK’s most popular light commercial vehicle, and brought new levels of refinement and economy to the iconic model.

“Efficiency gains will save operators money, more important than ever in the current climate, and add further appeal to a range of vehicles that have all-round appeal.

“The expert What Van? judging panel were also happy to give a number of highly commended acknowledgments to a range of Ford products, proving the breadth of appeal from the UK’s biggest-selling van brand,” continued Barker.

ECOnetic technologies available on Ford commercial vehicles include Auto-Start-Stop (which automatically shuts down the engine when at idle, and with the transmission and clutch disengaged) and 70mph Speed Limiter. There are also two new Ford Transit ECOnetic models with CO2 levels from as low as 173g/km – an improvement of up to 8.5 per cent in fuel economy and emissions versus the original Transit ECOnetic. The latest Ford Fiesta Van ECOnetic has a class-leading 95g/km CO2.

Ford’s successful Transit One-Stop Shop programme creates a variety of bespoke conversions of Ford Transit chassis cabs such as tippers and dropsides, to ambulances and motor homes.

Offering the widest possible choice in terms of load lengths, payload and passenger carrying ability – with three wheelbases, four frame lengths, rear- , front- or all-wheel drive, high-traction dual and single wheels and single or double cab style – it creates hundreds of different vehicles to keep businesses moving.

Ford of Britain commercial vehicles director, Steve Clary, said: "The Ford Transit is going from strength to strength and is unique in having 46 years at the top of the van sales charts. In a tough economic climate, operators are choosing Transit for its reliability and cost of ownership now further improved by the latest models meeting Stage 5 emissions standards.”

In the last six years, The Ford Transit van has won 15 What Van? awards.

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Ford Models Hit The Catwalk!

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 21:19:09 +0000

Ford Motor Company has unveiled its latest model, only this time it isn't a new vehicle. Instead a fashion model demonstrated how a variety of Ford Focus car parts could be the subject of a stylish photo shoot.

The unique fashion items, a dress and necklace made of Ford car parts, were commissioned as part of the company’s centenary tour, a month-long event celebrating 100 years of Ford in Britain. They were designed by two accomplished young British designers.

Accepting the challenge to design a dress for the occasion was nominee Scottish Designer of the Year, Judy Clark, who worked with the late Alexander McQueen.

“My reaction when they approached me was one of delight to be a part of such a unique project as it’s very different to what I normally do,” she said. “I would say that the inspiration for the dress was taken from the Edwardian period and I actually started to design the dress before the car parts arrived.”

The necklace was the work of Katherine Hawkins from Cornwall who runs a jewellery design business called Creme Noveau. Describing the inspiration behind the necklace as a tribute to Metropolis, the vintage science fiction movie, Katherine said that she was rather daunted by the prospect when she was approached by Ford.

"When the box of car parts arrived, I didn't really know what to expect,” Hawkins said. “It doesn't help that I can't actually drive so at first I didn't know what the parts were for! But once I got them spread out to see how they look and sit and how I could work with them, the idea came very quickly and I was able to use really cool metals, plastics and rubbery bits!"

The shoot was handled by photographer, Andy Fallon, who has contributed to magazines ranging from Rolling Stone Magazine to FHM.

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Ford Wins "Energy Saving Trust" Awards For Second Time

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 20:55:37 +0000

Ford has become one of the Energy Saving Trust’s ‘Fleet Heroes’ for the second time in three years, winning a prestigious award for its innovations helping to lower fuel bills and reduce car and van fleet emissions.

Ford took top spot in the Innovation in Car and Van Manufacturing category of the awards, which were marked by a special London ceremony attended by transport minister Norman Baker MP.

The Energy Saving Trust's four judges praised Ford for “bringing premium, efficient vehicle technologies at low cost to wider fleet markets”.

They said: "Ford is bringing premium, efficient vehicle technologies at low cost to wider fleet markets including cars and vans. They are the only volume manufacturer to bring products like active grille shutters, smart regenerative charging, lane-keeping aids and automated car parking to this segment of the market."

Ford's ECOnetic Technology is a suite of fuel-saving enhancements, including grille shutters on the all-new Ford Focus which shut to reduce drag and smart regenerative charging on all car models which maintains battery charge with minimum energy loss.

Lane departure warning technology on Ford’s medium and large cars can alert drivers if their position starts to veer out of lane. The popularity of the automatic parallel park feature on Ford medium cars means that over 20 per cent of Ford C-MAX sales have this convenience feature specified.

Steve Fletcher, Ford fleet operations manager, Ford of Britain, said: “It is very pleasing to be recognised for the high levels of advanced technology that Ford is applying across its vehicle range, not only lowering CO2 emissions but also promoting more fuel-efficient and safer driving.”

Norman Baker MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport, said: “If the Government is to meet its carbon reduction targets we must decarbonise road transport and making fleet operations greener is a major part of that.”

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Which MPV to buy

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 16:42:56 +0000

There are many on the market such as the Ford Galaxy or the Ford Kuga crossover, when looking to buy one there are many factors to consider:

If you need to transport a large number of people around, for instance on the school run or for family excursions, then you should be looking a seven or eight seater multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) otherwise known as people carriers. The popularity of this kind of vehicle has grown in recent times and it is the vehicle of choice for many people with larger than average families.

Sliding doors will allow you to park in narrower spaces and still have plenty of space for getting everyone safely in and out; so much better than conventional doors and without the danger of making an ugly mark on that car parked next to you as your door swings open.

The seating arrangements of different MPVs tend to be varied. In some the seats can be rotated so that your passengers sit face to face which allows for better conversation and the chance of enjoying some games to
stop the kids getting too bored on long journeys. On some MPVs the seats fold flat to the floor giving you a large amount of load carrying capacity, whist on some it is necessary to remove the seat entirely. Ease of access to the main cabin from the driver and front passenger seats can be very useful too.

As there are so many people in the car, and they are all likely to be precious to you, safety is a very important factor. Most modern MPVs come with a host of safety equipment, but you should ensure that you have sufficient airbags. Side impact airbags are very important but even better are curtain airbags for all three rows of seats.

You should also ensure that you are happy with the amount of storage space available with all seats occupied. With winter coats and school bags to carry as well as the occupants you will need to have a
reasonable luggage space. Many MPVs have numerous and sometimes quite innovative storage compartments, however if you are just after storage a cheap ford focus might be what you need as they have a huge boot compartment and are very spacious inside.

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Focus Mk3 Zetec-S Launched with 180bhp

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 19:05:38 +0000

Ford introduces the sporty Zetec S to its acclaimed all-new Focus line up. Developed specifically for UK customers, Zetec S combines sporty styling with the debut of the 1.6-litre 180PS EcoBoost petrol engine.

Based on the existing Zetec model, it adds a full sports styling kit including unique front and rear spoilers with lower sill extensions and 17in alloy wheels together with sports suspension featuring stiffened springs and dampers, aluminium-style sports pedals, rear LED tail lamps and Ford Power starter button.

Anthony Ireson, Ford Britain marketing director, said: "Zetec S models have always been popular with UK customers and so we are delighted to welcome our new Focus Zetec S to the range. With sporty exterior body styling and impressive performance and economy, this latest addition is set to be another showroom hit."

The Ford Focus Zetec S is available now in five-door bodystyle with estate to follow in February 2012, and is offered with a choice of four engines including the 1.6-litre 180PS EcoBoost turbo-charged petrol engine which has a top speed of 138mph, reaches 0-62mph in just 7.9sec and emits only 139g/km CO2. Any Focus Zetec S chosen with this engine or the 1.6-litre 115PS TDCi will carry the ECOnetic Technology badge, as they benefit from auto start-stop, Ford ECO mode, gear shift indicator, active grille shutter and smart regenerative charging.

The 1.6-litre 125PS Ti-VCT petrol and the 2.0-litre 163PS TDCi are also available and can be specified with either manual or PowerShift automatic transmission.

At £18,745 on the road the Focus Zetec S is priced just £1,250 above the equivalent Zetec derivative, which represents outstanding value, as if purchased separately, the additional features would add over £1,700. The Zetec S and Titanium are identically priced so customers can choose either sport or luxury at the same price point.

Options include the technology-laden Driver Assistance Pack which has received several awards, cruise control with Active Speed Limiter and a Zetec S interior pack featuring Inferno Red partial leather, heated front seats, power driver seat, power rear windows and global closing for £800.00.

New Ford Focus Zetec S developed for the UK market
Sportiest series ahead of 2012 Focus ST with 250PS
Standard features include full body styling kit, 17in alloy wheels, sports suspension, rear LED tail lamps and sports pedals
Priced from £18,745 on the road, equivalent to a Focus Titanium
Choice of four engines including the 1.6-litre 180PS EcoBoost petrol which debuts in the UK and features fuel-saving ECOnetic technologies
On sale now

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Focus Mk3 Becomes First Car To Receive Four Euro NCAP Advanced Rewards

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 18:39:35 +0000

The new Ford Focus has become the first ever car to receive four Euro NCAP Advanced safety rewards after its Driver Alert and Forward Alert technologies were honoured this week.

The rewards come a month after new Ford Ranger achieved an historic first by becoming the only pickup to receive a maximum 5 Star safety rating from Euro NCAP. Ranger also achieved the highest score ever recorded by Euro NCAP for pedestrian protection.

“At Ford Motor Company we are committed to providing outstanding levels of safety for vehicle occupants, and it is immensely gratifying to have received two more Euro NCAP Advanced rewards with the new Ford Focus,” said Stephen Odell, chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe.

Euro NCAP Advanced rewards were introduced in 2010 to recognise car manufacturers that make new safety technologies available. Ford is one of only two manufacturers to hold four of these rewards and the only manufacturer to achieve this with one product.

Michiel van Ratingen, Euro NCAP general secretary said: “As part of Euro NCAP’s mission to promote important innovations in safety, we are rewarding Ford for its Driver Alert and Forward Alert systems on the Focus, making the car the first that offers four rewarded technologies. Seeing a C-segment volume seller like Focus rewarded for various technologies clearly shows where Ford and the automobile industry is moving in Europe. Confidence is growing that driver assistance functions save lives and reduce injuries, the rewards emphasise the benefits for consumers.”

Technologies explained

An estimated 1,300 people a year die on Europe’s roads as a result of driver fatigue. Ford’s award-winning Driver Alert system is designed to detect tired driver behaviour, using advanced camera technology and on-board sensors to evaluate vigilance levels.

The system monitors the vehicle’s position relative to lane markings using a forward facing, windscreen mounted camera. It also communicates with the car’s on-board yaw sensor to detect erratic movements.

Using this information, the system constantly computes how vigilant the driver is, and presents this rating via a display in the instrument cluster. It sends a warning if it detects the driver is fatigued and needs to rest. The Driver Alert feature is available on new Focus, C-MAX, Grand C-MAX, Mondeo, S-MAX and Galaxy.

“Driver fatigue can affect anyone,” Ford engineer Margareta Nieh said. “When a driver becomes drowsy they tend to drift off-line as they lose concentration and they might make sudden corrective steering inputs. Our Driver Alert system is designed to detect these erratic driving movements and warn the driver in a timely manner.”

Ford’s Forward Alert accident warning system uses radar technology to scan the road ahead for slowing traffic. If it detects a braking, slower moving or stationary vehicle in front and it determines that a collision is likely, the system alerts the driver with an audible chime and by flashing a warning symbol in the instrument cluster. If the driver fails to brake immediately the system triggers another function, brake support.

“Brake support prepares the brake system for rapid braking by pre-charging the brake booster,” said Ford engineer Pradeep Nold . “When this happens, the brakes are automatically applied and the driver will notice a slight jerk. The braking system is now at a state of maximum readiness. As soon as the driver lifts their foot off the accelerator, the system will apply the brakes, slowing the vehicle. When the driver then hits the brake pedal, the system applies full braking force.”

Forward Alert can be switched on or off via the cluster menu and drivers can choose between three different sensitivity settings. The brake support feature is always active.

“Analysis of European accident data shows that rear-end collisions account for about 15 per cent of all traffic accidents resulting in injury,” added Nold. “Forward Alert is designed firstly to warn the driver, and then to reduce the severity of an impact.”

Forward Alert is currently available on new Focus, Mondeo, S-MAX, and Galaxy.

Driver Alert and Forward Alert features both win Euro NCAP’s coveted prize
Affordable, smart technologies join Active City Stop and Lane Keeping Aid as winners of prestigious Euro NCAP advanced rewards
Announcement caps a memorable month for Ford as new Ranger achieves best-ever rating for a pickup in Euro NCAP crash tests

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Ford Clears Up The Risks From Frozen Car Windscreens This Winter

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 18:36:36 +0000

Ford is alerting motorists to the hazards which uncleared snow and ice can cause on cars. Drivers risk their car, driving licence and safety by failing to take simple steps to clear their vehicle windscreen in icy weather.

Ford is urging motorists to ‘warm up for winter’ and properly manage all aspects of car maintenance and preparation for driving in cold and icy conditions as the weather forecast predicts chillier days ahead.

Stuart Southgate, Ford’s automotive safety office director, said: “Being able to clearly see where you are driving is perhaps the most obvious and basic safety requirement for motorists. Failing to take proper care to clear windscreens can have serious consequences not just for drivers, but for pedestrians and other road users too.”

If motorists do not wait for the whole windscreen to clear and instead drive with just a small ‘porthole’ of visibility ahead they can face a driving ban.

An Essex police spokesperson said: “Failing to clear your windscreen of ice or frost constitutes careless driving, and would be punishable with points on your licence and a fine. The exact penalty is dependent on the circumstances and severity of the offence committed, and would be decided in a criminal court.”

Drivers who run the car engine to heat the windscreen but leave the vehicle unattended – known as ‘frosting’ – are committing an offence if the vehicle is left on a public highway*. Although leaving a car running on a private driveway isn’t breaking the law, it is a prime target for opportunistic thieves.

According to insurance company estimates, around 2,000 cars are stolen each year when ‘frosting’, worth around £12.7m.** Car insurance is usually invalidated if a policyholder leaves a vehicle with the keys in the ignition.

While frustrated motorists often resort to using tools such as stiletto heels, CD cases, credit cards and finger nails to scrape at stubborn ice, one in 10*** confesses to pouring a kettle of boiling water onto the windscreen.

Dave Gidden, product support manager at Autoglass®, said: "We don’t advise using hot water. There is a huge difference in the temperature of the hot water people use and the windscreen itself in freezing conditions. This thermal shock may cause severe damage to the windscreen. Glass is very hard but it is not malleable so it doesn’t permit rapid uneven expansion."

Technology offers a quicker and simpler solution. Ford developed the patented Quickclear system 26 years ago, which uses a mesh of very thin heating wires embedded between two layers of windscreen glass to provide rapid de-icing and de-fogging. The simple push-button system clears windscreens in seconds, instantly freeing frozen wiper blades to reduce stress on the wiper motor. It is standard on all but 11 models in Ford’s car range from the Ka supermini to Galaxy people carrier, more than a quarter of a century on from its debut on the Ford Scorpio.

Stuart Southgate added: “The feature allows the driver to clear the windscreen in a more convenient manner, and allows the driver to maintain a clear windscreen whilst on the go.”

1. *Leaving a vehicle unattended while the engine is running on a public road is the offence of quitting. It attracts a £30 non-endorsable fixed penalty notice. [Source: Essex Police]

2. **Swiftcover.com research, 3/2/11 http://www.swiftcove...tolen-vehicles/

3. ***Autoglass research, 25/11/10 http://www.autoglass...290638163057974

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All-New Ford Focus ST Cast As Lead Car In The Sweeney Movie 2012

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 09:31:05 +0000

Ford's first global performance car will take centre stage next year with a starring role in new film blockbuster The Sweeney.

Flying Squad detectives Jack Regan (Ray Winstone) and George Carter (Ben Drew aka Plan will lead a cast of crime-busting officers as they give chase to London's criminals in black Ford Focus ST hot hatchbacks.

Thanks to the Ford Focus ST's 2.0-litre 250PS four-cylinder EcoBoost engine and explosive acceleration, the criminals will always struggle to make a clean getaway.

The new Ford Focus ST, which goes on sale in 40 countries from next year, was shown in final production-ready form at the Frankfurt motor show in September.

Anthony Ireson, Ford Britain marketing director, said: “The new Focus ST is a hugely exciting car for Ford with terrific dynamic credibility. It will be a car for real driving enthusiasts, so Regan and Carter won't be disappointed."

Last month special early-build Ford Focus ST models were secretly delivered to The Sweeney set, joining Ford Mondeos, Galaxys and Transits also being used as unmarked vehicles.

Director and co-writer Nick Love, whose prior films include The Football Factory and The Firm, said: "It was important for me to collaborate with Ford on The Sweeney as their legacy with the original TV show is so strong – they're the perfect partner. I like the Ford Focus ST so much, I want one!"

Ford's strong link with the 1970s Sweeney TV series saw Regan, Carter and their Flying Squad colleagues using a string of Ford Granadas, Consuls and Cortinas to make the streets of London a safer place.

Production company Vertigo has the use of six Ford Focus ST models during filming, which is continuing until Christmas. Set in modern day England, The Sweeney movie also features Hayley Atwell (from Captain America), Damien Lewis (The Escapist), Steven Mackintosh (Underworld: The Rise of the Lycans) and Paul Anderson (The Firm).

Next year The Sweeney will be edited ahead of the Focus ST going on sale in the UK in the summer, followed by the film premiere in September.

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All-New Ford Escape: Smarter Utility Vehicle To Make Owners' Lives Easier

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 19:21:41 +0000

Ford's newest sport utility vehicle unveiled as the Ford Escape in Los Angeles today, is destined for the US and Europe next year. Its European equivalent, the Ford Kuga, will be shown in Geneva in March and will offer unique powertrains and features.

“We call our all-new Ford Escape the ‘Smarter Utility Vehicle’ because it offers the strengths that customers today really value – fuel economy, versatility and new technology that makes driving and living with the vehicle easier and more fun – all wrapped in a sleek, more modern design,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. “Ford understands that more people every year are looking at vehicles like Escape, and we want to give them even more reasons to buy.”

In addition to more cargo volume behind the first and second rows than today’s vehicle, the new Escape delivers:

Eleven features no other small SUV offers
Clever technologies including an available hands-free power liftgate that allows quick and easy access to cargo with the kick of a foot
Projected best fuel economy of any US compact SUV, up to five mpg better than the previous Escape
Driving dynamics that make the drive experience more engaging on-road and a new Ford Intelligent 4WD system that provides better traction off-road
Sleek new design, with better interior materials and finishing touches

Escape technology makes life better

An array of clever technologies adds to the new Escape’s versatility, helping make life easier for its owners. Key features include:

An available hands-free power liftgate brings new technology to the SUV market and is enabled by motion technology used in today’s video game systems. A gentle kicking motion under the centre of the rear bumper activates, unlocks and raises the liftgate when the driver has the Escape key fob. This allows quick and easy access to the cargo area. The same process closes the hatch
SYNC® with MyFord Touch® offers multiple ways for customers to manage and control information through voice commands, menus accessed through controls on the steering wheel, touch screens, buttons or knobs
Parallel parking the Escape is virtually stress-free with active park assist. With the press of a button, the system detects an available parallel parking space and automatically steers the vehicle into the space. Drivers control only the accelerator and brake pedals
Escape’s sensor-based BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with cross-traffic alert, triggers a warning sound when a vehicle is detected entering a blind spot
The all-new Ford Escape is the first Ford SUV to combine class-exclusive technology to automatically slow the vehicle when it’s cornering too fast (Curve Control) or help accelerate through a turn (Torque Vectoring Control); a new Intelligent 4WD System helps deliver outstanding handling on pristine pavement and in adverse conditions as well, along with excellent traction off-road

Spirited performance with outstanding fuel economy

In the US, Escape offers Ford’s broadest nameplate range of EcoBoost® engine choices yet. Strong fuel economy comes from either the available 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine or 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine. The European Ford Kuga powertrain line-up will be announced closer to launch.

Aiding fuel economy is Escape’s sleeker design. The new model is nearly 10 per cent more aerodynamic than the outgoing model.

Plus, the new Escape’s active grille shutter system, which is on all models with the 1.6-litre EcoBoost and 2.5-litre four-cylinder engines, reduces wind resistance. Grille slats stay open when extra engine cooling air is required, such as low-speed stop-and-go driving. When cruising on the highway at steady speeds, the grille slats automatically close to improve aerodynamics and fuel efficiency.

Versatility and capability come standard

Stowing and towing are even easier in the new five-passenger Escape, thanks to a low liftover height of 27in, more innovations and cargo volume that surpasses the outgoing Escape – with 68.1 cubic feet of space behind the first row and 34.3 cubic feet behind the second row.

The new Escape’s rear seats have been designed to fold flat easily. With the touch of a button, the head restraint folds down and with the lift of a handle on the seat, the seatback folds and dives as the seat folds flat and clicks into position.

Escape also features an available two-position load floor, which can be configured to allow the customer to choose among maximum luggage volume or flat load floor.

Engaging driving performance through seamless system

Using new advanced software and sensors, the new Intelligent 4WD system analyses data from 25 external signals, including wheel speed, accelerator pedal position and steering wheel angle, assessing road conditions and driver input 20 times faster than the blink of an eye.

The system uses all the sensor inputs to turn the vehicle in the direction the driver wants it to go. Intelligent 4WD builds on the pre-emptive actions by adding and subtracting torque as needed through an electromagnetic clutch.

New SUV goes global

Following its world debut in Los Angeles, this new vehicle will head to Europe, where sales of compact sport utilities have grown 200 per cent since 2000. It will be revealed at the Geneva Motor Show in March for European customers as the all-new version of the Ford Kuga and will have unique powertrains and features. Chinese customers also will see the all-new Kuga next spring.

“This all-new Ford model opens a new chapter in the world of SUVs,” Kuzak said. “By being smarter, this utility vehicle will help customers around the globe find better, easier ways to connect with technology, maximize fuel efficiency and find the versatility and capability they need and want.”

All-new Ford Escape unveiled today at LA Show
Ford’s newest sport utility vehicle (SUV) arrives next year in the US and Europe
Named the Ford Kuga in Europe, this vehicle comes to the Geneva Motor Show in March and will offer unique European powertrains and features

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Ford Accident Management Programme Delivers Award-Winning Service

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 19:19:31 +0000

Ford’s Accident Management programme has been recognised as Innovation of the Year at this year’s Bodyshop Magazine Awards. This new initiative also helped secure two separate overall manufacturer awards from Bodyshop Magazine and the Auto Body Professionals (ABP) Club.

Ford Accident Management provides an improved service for Ford customers as a result of streamlined communications between insurers and Ford’s repair network. Unlike existing programmes, Ford Accident Management does not allow any personal injury referral fees to be paid and there are no credit hire or credit repair agreements for customers to sign.

Paul McDermott, Ford collision repair manager, said: “I am really delighted that we have been recognised for our work on accident management. The Ford Accident Management programme is aligned with the Government’s recent commitment to ban referral fees and to counteract the high costs of motor insurance.”

“Beating two other manufacturers to take the Vehicle Manufacturer of the Year title is testament to the team’s hard work and commitment to aftersales excellence,” said Bodyshop Magazine.

David Cresswell, ABP Club chairman, said: "Congratulations to Paul McDermott and his team for a very well deserved award. The Ford Accident Management programme certainly appears to be the right product at the right time. With no personal injury referral it fits in well with the mood of the market and the Government’s move to ban referral fees."

More information at www.ford.co.uk/OwnerServices/AccidentManagement

Ford awards summary:

1) Innovation of the Year – Bodyshop Magazine Awards

2) Manufacturer of the Year - Bodyshop Magazine Awards

3) Vehicle Manufacturer Body Repair Network of the Year - ABP ClubAwards

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Latvala Wins Rally GB As Ford Claims Podium Clean Sweep

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 19:17:41 +0000

Ford Abu Dhabi World Rally Team’s Jari-Matti Latvala and Miikka Anttila won Wales Rally GB as Fiesta RS World Rally Cars powered to a 1-2-3 finish on the final round of the FIA World Rally Championship. The Finns claimed their fifth world rally victory, and their first since July last year, as the Fiesta RS WRC took eight of the top nine places in the demanding four-day event.

Latvala won by 3min 42.9sec after winning 11 of the 23 speed tests in the muddy Welsh forests, leading home Mads Østberg / Jonas Andersson and Henning Solberg / Ilka Minor from the privately-entered M-Sport Stobart Ford squad.

The success of the Fiesta RS WRC on this 13th round of the season mirrored the car’s triumphant debut in Sweden in February, when team-mates Mikko Hirvonen and Jarmo Lehtinen headed a similar podium clean sweep.

Heavy rain turned the gravel forest tracks into a muddy mess. Grip was at a premium during the opening two days, before brighter weather generated better conditions for the final two legs. The event covered the length of Wales and after starting at Llandudno in the north on Thursday afternoon, competitors tackled 353.53km of competition before this afternoon’s finish in Cardiff in the south.

Latvala felt unwell during the first full day of competition, but as his health improved so did his pace and he ended the leg just 1.1sec from the lead after a thrilling duel with Frenchman Sébastien Loeb. The 26-year-old moved ahead yesterday afternoon but a slender 6.1sec advantage meant there was still everything to fight for during today’s final six special stages, covering 84.04km in the Brecon Beacon mountains and over the Epynt military ranges.

Latvala widened his lead during the opening stage, but when Loeb was forced to retire the Ford Abu Dhabi driver measured his pace over the remaining tests. Nevertheless, he won two more stages en route to the finish at Cardiff Castle.

“It’s a great way to end the season,” he admitted. “It has been a long time since my last win and I’ve endured some frustrating times since then, but they’re now over. Everything came together during the second half of the season and I’m so pleased to win here. It’s my 10th Rally GB and it’s the rally where I began my WRC career in 2002, so it feels like a home event for me.

“When Seb retired this morning the pressure lifted from my shoulders. I eased my pace and didn’t take any risks, although the change from driving flat out to driving more cautiously was tricky. But I found the right rhythm and kept my concentration, which isn’t easy when you’re not driving on the limit. The team did a great job all year and this was a brilliant way to close the season,” he added.

Latvala also won the Abu Dhabi Spirit of the Rally Award in recognition of his performance.

Team-mates Evgeny Novikov and Denis Giraudet finished seventh in another Fiesta RS WRC in their debut for the Ford Abu Dhabi squad. “Conditions were really tricky during the first part of the rally and I decided to set my target on simply finishing. Despite a few problems I did that and I’m happy to have made it without the dramas that some drivers encountered,” admitted the Russian driver.

Ford Abu Dhabi team director Malcolm Wilson said Latvala’s victory provided ‘great consolation’ for the team after Hirvonen and Lehtinen’s hopes of securing the drivers’ world title ended in retirement on Friday.

“Jari-Matti was a class act throughout the weekend. He had some pressure during the first morning when he wasn’t relaxed but after that he was in great shape and nobody had an answer to his speed. We started the rally hoping for a world title. Sadly that wasn’t to be, but a victory, a clean sweep of the podium and eight Fiesta RS WRCs in the first nine places was a great consolation,” he said.

Ford of Europe motorsport chief Gerard Quinn said: “We had a tough season and to come here and lose Mikko so early was a bitter disappointment. However, we bounced back and Jari-Matti showed his improved form with a thoroughly deserved victory. I’m delighted for him considering the superb role he played in supporting Mikko in recent rallies. He is a true team player.

“The Fiesta RS WRC took a 1-2-3 and it’s fitting the car ended the season in the same way it started, by locking out the podium places. My congratulations also go to Craig Breen and Gareth Roberts who won the FIA WRC Academy Cup title yesterday in a Fiesta R2,” added Quinn.

News from other Ford teams

Mads Østberg / Jonas Andersson claimed their second runners-up spot of the season for the M-Sport Stobart Ford team, with team-mates Henning Solberg / Ilka Minor taking their best result of the year in third. Matthew Wilson / Scott Martin finished fifth, ahead of Ott Tänak / Kuldar Sikk, whose career-best sixth place marked an outstanding debut in a Fiesta RS WRC. FERM Power Tools crew Dennis Kuipers / Frederic Miclotte were eight and Monster World Rally Team’s Ken Block / Alex Gelsomino completed the Fiesta RS WRC cavalcade in ninth. Martin Prokop / Jan Tomanek completed the Fiesta RS WRC finishers in 22nd, completing the rally under SupeRally rules after retiring on Friday with suspension damage.

Final positions

1. J-M Latvala/M Anttila FIN Ford Fiesta RS 3hr 27min 03.5sec

2. M Østberg/J Andersson NOR Ford Fiesta RS 3hr 30min 46.4sec

3. H Solberg/I Minor NOR Ford Fiesta RS 3hr 34min 08.6sec

4. K Meeke/P Nagle GBR Mini John Cooper 3hr 34min 15.8sec

5. M Wilson/S Martin GBR Ford Fiesta RS 3hr 36min 00.8sec

6. O Tänak/K Sikk EST Ford Fiesta RS 3hr 36min 30.6sec

7. E Novikov/D Giraudet RUS Ford Fiesta RS 3hr 36min 51.2sec

8. D Kuipers/F Miclotte NLD Ford Fiesta RS 3hr 37min 16.2sec

9. K Block/A Gelsomino USA Ford Fiesta RS 3hr 43min 04.7sec

10 A Araújo/M Ramalho POR Mini John Cooper 3hr 44min 05.1sec

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UK Developed Ford 1.0-Litre EcoBoost Engine Launched

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 19:16:12 +0000

Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally today launched production of Ford’s smallest petrol engine – a 1.0-litre, turbocharged, direct injection EcoBoost engine – developed by UK engineers. It will debut in Europe in early 2012 and ultimately be available worldwide.

The 1.0-litre, three-cylinder EcoBoost engine will be available in the all-new Ford Focus and will produce 125PS while delivering a combined fuel economy of 56.5mpg and ultra-low petrol CO2 emissions performance of 114g/km – a level unmatched by Focus competitors. A 100PS version of the same engine will deliver outright best-in-class petrol CO2 emissions of 109g/km. This engine will also feature in the Ford C-MAX and Grand C-MAX, plus the new Ford B-MAX which enters production in mid 2012.

"The new 1.0-litre EcoBoost and our entire family of EcoBoost engines – represent technology breakthroughs that deliver power, fuel efficiency and low CO2 emissions through turbocharging and direct injection,” Mulally said. “These engines are delivering the fuel-efficient vehicles customers want and value."

Ford has invested £110 million to develop a special high-tech line at the Cologne Engine Plant to build the engine. The plant’s 870 employees will build up to 350,000 units a year of the new engine.

European production capacity could increase to up to 700,000 units per year as production of the small EcoBoost engine at Cologne is joined by Ford’s new engine plant in Craiova, Romania, in early 2012. In the years ahead, Ford anticipates production to expand outside of Europe to deliver global capacity of up to 1.3 million 1.0-litre EcoBoost engines per year.

The new small EcoBoost petrol engine

This new EcoBoost engine delivers performance to rival a traditional 1.6-litre engine, with significantly improved fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions. The 1.0-litre EcoBoost cylinder block can fit onto a sheet of A4 paper but delivers up to 125PS and 170Nm peak torque (with 200Nm overboost), giving it the highest power density of any Ford production engine to date.

“The new 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine is a true collaboration from start to finish, with expertise from Ford specialists across Europe leveraged in designing both the engine and the cutting-edge facility in which it will be produced,” said Stephen Odell, chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe.

“This will be reflected in the class-leading European CO2 emissions of the new 1.0-litre EcoBoost Ford Focus when it debuts in early 2012; low emissions that will be achieved alongside the spirited and refined performance that customers expect from Ford.”

Graham Hoare, European executive powertrain director with engineers based at Dunton and Dagenham, added: "This is the third addition to our acclaimed EcoBoost engine family. Joining the 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre EcoBoost engines which span 150PS to above 200PS, this 1.0-litre EcoBoost signals a new era of downsized, super-frugal engines for the sub-130PS segment. During development our UK engineers focused on improving thermal efficiency and reducing friction of the engine's internal moving parts, especially during warm-up."

Britain leads on European product development of engines and transmissions at Dunton Technical Centre, in Essex, with up to 2,000,000 engines including the 1.6 EcoBoost assembled annually at Bridgend and Dagenham.

High-tech EcoBoost production

The advanced EcoBoost production facility at Ford’s Cologne Engine Plant was designed by Ford’s Manufacturing Engineering team, Dunton, UK, using Ford's Virtual Manufacturing laboratory, to offer maximum flexibility and efficiency. Nearly 100 new machining units and a 580-metre purpose-built assembly line have been installed.

Fifty-five automated and 14 semi-automated processes are used, alongside 90 work stations for skilled employees, helping to ensure the highest standards of quality and consistency in production. The technology is capable of machining to an accuracy of 10 microns, 10 to 20 per cent the width of a human hair.

Ford has introduced new manufacturing techniques that reduce the volume of coolant required when machining aluminium engine parts to just four or five millilitres per component from a previous requirement of up to two litres, a reduction of more than 99 per cent that contributes to a reduced environmental footprint from manufacturing.

New “cold testing” technology allows completed engines to be tested without being started - reducing fuel usage and CO2 emissions from the process by 66 per cent – while 100 per cent of the remaining energy required to run the plant comes from renewable sources. Total electricity demands have been reduced by 66 per cent compared with production of Ford’s 4.0-litre V6 engine, which ends today at Cologne Engine Plant.

New 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine developed by UK powertrain engineers located at Dunton and Dagenham
Ford invests £110 million in Cologne production line designed by the UK Manufacturing Engineering team
High-tech, ultra-efficient engine will debut in the UK in the all-new Ford Focus next year, giving the Focus class-leading petrol CO2 emissions and fuel economy
New 1.0-litre EcoBoost is Ford’s smallest petrol engine. The turbocharged, direct injection engine delivers 125PS with 114g/km CO2 and 100PS with 109g/km CO2 in the Ford Focus
The engine will also be built in Craiova, Romania, bringing total European production capacity to 700,000 units per year, with annual worldwide production of up to 1.5 million engines anticipated

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Ford Helps Disabled Service Ski Team Into A Transit Minibus

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 19:11:36 +0000

Ford has once again come to the aid of disabled Service skiers to compete in international winter sports events with the provision of a new Transit minibus.

The Ford Transit, a nine-seater Tourneo 280 short wheelbase, will be used by the Combined Services Disabled Ski Team (CSDST) to transport athletes and their equipment around the Alps this winter. It is the third consecutive year that Ford has assisted the team.

The CSDST is a registered charity which provides quality race coaching to serving members of the Armed Forces, and to veterans, all of whom have a permanent disability. Most members were injured on active service, and several are double amputees.

Last season the team won three gold, four silver and four bronze medals in international events and this season will train in Austria ahead of Army competitions in January and the Inter Services Championships in February. Several CSDST members are hoping to make the British Disabled Ski Team and represent their country in the 2014 Winter Paralympics in Sochi, Russia.

“Ford’s assistance in providing the Tourneo is greatly appreciated,” said Lt Col Mike Quaile, team deputy chairman. “The vehicle enables us to move both the disabled skiers and their equipment during training and competitions, and without it we would struggle to provide these opportunities to disabled service men and women.”

Transit brand manager David Petts added: “Ford is very pleased to again assist the Combined Services Disabled Ski Team. The work being done by the team’s trainers, and the efforts being made by team members themselves, is not only inspirational but gives everyone great pride.”

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Ford Leads UK's October Market With Increased Car Sales And Share

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 19:10:09 +0000

Ford extended its UK market lead in October with increased car sales and market share compared with October 2010.

Official figures released today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show that total UK car sales in October, compared with October 2010, were up 2.6 per cent at 134,944 units. Ford's car share for October was 13.7 per cent and it sold 18,476 units, up 2,132 units and 1.3 percentage points compared with October 2010.

The Ford Fiesta was the UK best seller in October and the Ford Fiesta and the Ford Focus were the No 1 and 2 top sellers for the year to date. Ford Transit continues as the UK commercial vehicle (CV) sales leader, capturing 21.7 per cent of sales in the medium CV sector in October and 24.8 per cent for the year to date.

There were significant sales increases across the Ford car range in October with Ford Fiesta, Ford Focus, Ford C-MAX, Ford Kuga and Ford Galaxy all gaining compared with October 2010. Ford Fiesta, for example, grew to 7,308 from 6,024, Focus increased to 5,203 from 3,888 and C-MAX to 1,723 from 460. Ford's share of retail car sales in October was 12.2 per cent, up from 10.8 per cent a year before, and fleet share was also up to 14.9 per cent from 13.9 per cent.

Ford's UK CV sales leadership is in its 46th consecutive year. Total Ford CV sales for the year to date have increased to 61,493 from 52,335, in the same period last year, while Ford's 23.9 per cent CV share is level. Ford Transit remains the UK’s best-selling CV with sales for the year to date at 48,693, compared with 38,845 in the same period in 2010.

“Ford comfortably beat the positive trend in the UK car market in October, which is a great credit to our strong dealer network,” said Mark Ovenden, Ford of Britain managing director. “Against intense competition our best-ever vehicle range is helping to strengthen Ford’s continued UK market leadership. Particularly pleasing is the success of our most recently launched models such as Focus and C-MAX, which are boosting customer appreciation of the distinctive attributes of the blue oval brand.”

Ford overall UK sales leader in October and year to date
Ford Fiesta is the UK No 1 best seller for October and year to date
Ford car sales up 13 per cent from October 2010

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Ford Triumphs At 2011 ACFO Awards

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 19:08:50 +0000

UK market leader Ford came home from the 2011 ACFO awards having won four of the seven available fleet business trophies.

Two of Ford's awards went to the all-new Ford Focus launched this year – which was named Fleet Car of the Year by the premier organisation for fleet operators.

The other pair of Ford awards was won by its commercial vehicle stars – the Ford Transit, which is the UK's top selling van, and its compact sibling, the Ford Transit Connect.

Ford Transit Connect Van was voted Small Van of the Year for the ninth year in succession, while its Transit stablemate returned to the winner’s rostrum to become Large Van of the Year for the 15th time in the awards' history.

Determined by influential ACFO fleet operator members, their Fleet Car of the Year trophy went to the new Ford Focus – within months of going on sale. Its innovative Driver Assistance Pack, which offers seven advanced accident prevention technologies for only £750, is ACFO's Fleet Safety Initiative of the Year.

Kevin Griffin, Ford of Britain fleet director, said: "This early industry endorsement of our new Ford Focus confirms it as a company car of choice. ACFO members' opinions are highly prized as they reflect the day-to-day operational experience and expertise of fleet decision-makers.

"Ford's safety award for the all-new Ford Focus' Driver Assistance Pack is further proof that our investment in technology is relevant, affordable and recognised by company car drivers. Winning two further awards for Transit and Transit Connect reinforces the choice and value we offer to commercial vehicle as well as car customers.”

Ford's acclaimed Driver Assistance aid features Traffic Sign Recognition, which uses a forward-facing camera to scan speed signs and displays a reminder of the last sign passed, Active City Stop to brake the car if the vehicle in front stops suddenly, an alert to static or moving obstacles in the blind spot, auto high beam, lane keeping aid and lane departure warning, and a warning if erratic driver behaviour could indicate excessive fatigue.

ACFO chairman Julie Jenner said: “Fleet decision-makers are reliant on motor manufacturers to deliver vehicles that are cost effective to operate, safe, reliable and environmentally-friendly.

“The availability of top quality vehicles maintains downtime to a minimum and fleet managers can focus more on the efficient and effective operation of vehicles to support their businesses.”

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Ford Retail Appoints Stuart Kerr As New CEO

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 19:07:21 +0000

Ford of Britain's wholly owned dealer group, Ford Retail, is announcing the appointment of Stuart Kerr as CEO, following the departure of Chris Hayden.

Stuart Kerr was previously Regional President for Volvo Car Corporation in Europe. He has extensive experience in vehicle retailing, including the successful launch of Volvo distributorship and dealership operations in South Africa. He is recognised in the industry as a proven achiever, with a deep knowledge of the sales and marketing aspects of the industry.

Ford of Europe Vice President Marketing Sales and Service, Roelant de Waard, said: "Stuart is the right person to take on this important industry role and to build on the work done by Chris Hayden in profitably developing Ford Retail into a customer-focused business worthy of our best-ever range of products."

With 60 sites spanning Britain, the Channel Islands and Northern Ireland, Ford Retail is one of the largest dealer groups in the UK and the largest Ford dealer group in the world.

Retailing under strong regional brands such as Dagenham Motors, Polar Ford, Heartlands Ford, Brunel Ford and Lindsay Ford, it employs more than 3,000 people and sells around 75,000 vehicles a year with a turnover exceeding £1 billion. It also has a dedicated parts business trading as @First Parts Solutions.

Angus Brown, who has been the Ford Retail acting CEO for the last few months, will return to his post as Ford Retail Parts Operations Director.

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New Global Ford Focus Designed For World's Larger And Taller Population

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 19:56:18 +0000

Launching the new global Ford Focus in 120 countries meant accommodating the different and growing sizes of drivers from around the world.

Ford utilised latest data gained from 3D body scans carried out on a large range of ages and races to make sure they can cater for all global populations.

“We use a global database that gives accurate size ranges of drivers in different parts of the world,” said Ralph Gesang, Ford's Driving Environment supervisor. “It shows not only heights but also the different types of body statures. This information helped us to ensure that more than 97 per cent of the world’s adult population can sit comfortably in the new Focus.”

The database includes some of the most up-to-date anthropometric information (data collected from measuring human beings with the purpose of understanding physical variation), with cross-sections of adults in a number of different continents being scanned by laser from head to toe.

For example, three years ago 12,000 Germans were scanned as part of a public/private research project. This information was added to the comparable databases of people from China, Japan, North America and South America, creating computerised 3D models of the people with accurate dimensions including height, waist circumference, hip width and leg length.

Ford engineers used this information to make detailed virtual studies of the interior design, looking at the space, comfort and safety of driver and passengers.

“The latest 3D body data directly influenced the development of the seat travel, the cushion shape and the adjustment range of the steering wheel and foot pedals,” said Ralf Nürnberg, Ford’s attribute leader for Occupant Accommodation. “Back seat head and leg room also were influenced when we visualised the 3D human models in our computer simulations of the new Focus.

“As well as the broad regional variations, the latest 3D body data also reflects the fact that, on average, the global population is getting taller and heavier, and the new Focus interior takes account of this trend.”

According to scientific studies, the average human height in industrialised parts of the world has increased by around 4-in (10cm) in the past 150 years due in part to better living conditions and improved diet. This type of historical data can also be used to predict the potentially rapid growth of people from developing countries.

Regional differences can even come down to drink preferences. In Europe, storage for a 1.5-litre water bottle is a customer want, whereas in China, tea containers are often carried in cars. Both were taken into account when designing the door pockets of the new Focus, ensuring customer needs were met without compromising the driver’s ability to sit comfortably and easily control the vehicle.

Areas outside of the cockpit were subjected to the same high level of scrutiny as those inside. For example, in some regions of the world, the average height and arm length is noticeably lower than elsewhere. For these regions, the maximum opening height of the rear tailgate was lowered to maintain a comfortable reach.

The overall result is that the new Ford Focus combines a stylish, aerodynamic exterior design with highly competitive interior space. By considering the greater range of shapes and sizes of the global customer base, the engineers at Ford have worked to ensure that, no matter where in the world it’s sold, the new Focus is a good fit for customers.

New Ford Focus is designed using the latest 3D body data to ensure it caters for all global populations
Design of new Ford Focus allows for a 97.5 percentile of the global population to be comfortable behind the wheel

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New Ford Tech Helps Parents To Prevent Young Drivers From Receiving Calls While Driving

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 19:54:04 +0000

Ford is helping parents to ensure their children drive more safely with a new technology that can block incoming phone calls and text messages while they are behind the wheel.

The new Ford MyKey® 'Do Not Disturb' feature is an industry first and is designed to help parents encourage younger drivers to concentrate on the road ahead by reducing phone-related distractions.

'Do Not Disturb' is a feature of Ford’s MyKey technology, which works by blocking incoming phone calls or text messages from a Bluetooth-paired mobile phone, diverting calls to voicemail and saving text messages on the device for viewing later.

Ford MyKey allows owners to programme a special key that can also restrict the vehicle’s top speed to 80mph and limit audio volume. In addition, MyKey encourages safety-belt usage, provides earlier low-fuel warnings and can be programmed to sound chimes at set points between 45 and 70mph.

“MyKey adds a new dimension to auto safety by giving drivers standard technology that encourages safer driving and limits their exposure to risk, regardless of age or experience,” said Peter Patzelt, Ford system architect for MyKey. “MyKey can give parents peace of mind when they hand car keys over to their kids, and 'Do Not Disturb' enables parents to control another risk factor when their child gets behind the wheel.”

Research suggests European drivers under the age of 25 are up to three times more likely to be involved in a fatal road accident than experienced drivers.

“Inexperienced drivers are typically the most at-risk drivers on the road,” Patzelt said. “The more we can do to encourage safe driving and limit distraction the better. With MyKey, parents can set limitations, while still allowing the freedom of driving a car.”

MyKey will become available from next year on the Ford Fiesta before being expanded to other car models.

Safety for all the family

Ford MyKey's 'Do Not Disturb' feature joins a comprehensive suite of affordable technologies developed by Ford to help protect drivers and occupants of all ages.

For example, the award-winning Focus is the first vehicle in its segment available with Active City Stop low-speed collision avoidance technology, designed to help the driver reduce impact damage or potentially avoid a collision completely. This technology recently received a Euro NCAP Advanced reward, as did Ford’s Lane Keeping Aid which uses a forward camera to detect if a vehicle drifts out of its lane and applies a small amount of steering input to actively steer the vehicle back into the lane.

Ford is also working on another industry first – rear inflatable seat belts in its European product range to offer increased protection to rear seat occupants.

"At Ford, our mission is to provide outstanding levels of safety through accident avoidance technologies and advanced occupant protection systems," said Stephen Odell, chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe.

Ford's industry-first technology allows parents to prevent young drivers from receiving phone calls and text messages while at the wheel
This new 'Do Not Disturb' feature is a function of Ford's programmable MyKey which can limit a vehicle's top speed and audio volume

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See And Be Seen With Ford Headlamp Technology For Safer Night-Time Driving

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 19:51:11 +0000

When the clocks go back this weekend, many commutes and school runs will be plunged into darkness, resulting in reduced visibility and increased risk of accidents.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (ROSPA), the UK's leading safety charity, claims 40 per cent of road accidents occur at night when vision is reduced.

Ford has a suite of technologies available on its cars which help drivers to monitor the road ahead and detect potential hazards sooner. Advances in lighting technology also mean that Ford cars now illuminate the road ahead brighter and more efficiently, while also making themselves more visible to other road users.

“Driving at night presents additional challenges, especially at this time of year when drivers may not be used to driving with their lights on,” says Mauro Assis, Ford engineer. “It’s harder to judge distances, reaction times are slowed too, and there’s the risk of being blinded by oncoming traffic.”

Tech explained

When visibility is reduced or when dusk sets in, all Ford vehicles are equipped with high quality headlamps to ensure drivers can travel safely and also be clearly seen by others.

Ford also offers the option of ultra-bright bi-xenon High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps on certain models, while highly efficient, lower energy use LED technology makes Ford vehicles even easier to spot for both other motorists and pedestrians.

Additionally Ford has a range of available technologies that can assist drivers over the winter months when driving in the darkness is more commonplace. These include:

Adaptive Front Lighting System – the direction of the car’s halogen light beams automatically changes when the steering wheel is turned, almost doubling the visible distance around bends. This results in reduced stress and fatigue while driving at night
Auto-headlights – sense when the outside light falls below a set level, such as dusk or driving into tunnels, and automatically switches on the headlights, helping drivers keep concentration firmly on the road ahead
Auto High Beam Control – detects on-coming vehicles and automatically switches to dipped beam, before switching back to high beam once it detects the vehicle has passed

It’s not just drivers who benefit from Ford’s technology when the evenings become darker either. Clever ‘puddle lights’ fitted to the door mirrors of some Ford models ensure drivers and their passengers don’t need to step out of a vehicle into puddles, mud or worse.

Similarly, the dangers of walking through poorly lit areas when you park at night are reduced by smart ‘follow-me-home’ headlights. These headlights stay on for a few seconds after the engine has been turned off, which can also be useful to individual drivers who may worry about getting safely from the car to their front door in the evenings.

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New Ford Ranger Raises The Bar On Safety

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 19:44:37 +0000

The all-new global Ford Ranger is setting new standards in safety with a comprehensive suite of class-leading features, such as the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and side curtain airbags.

Ranger’s advanced safety protection begins with a reinforced passenger compartment that utilises high-strength steel throughout. Using multiple load paths in the front, side, and rear of the vehicle, crash forces are directed away from occupants, providing high levels of protection in the event of a collision. This structure, along with Ranger's all-new ladder frame, was optimised to manage the crash energy in a variety of impacts and provide protection for all passengers.

Using sophisticated computer modelling, engineers assessed more than 9,000 virtual crash tests before any physical prototype vehicle was built. These virtual simulations allowed the engineers to optimise the vehicle structure and safety systems to provide the maximum levels of protection possible in a wide-range of real-world collisions. This technique enabled significantly more crash scenarios to be designed than could ever be tested physically.

“Safety has become increasingly important in the commercial vehicle segment as more people use their vehicle to carry not just goods but also people,”said Dr Mark Fountain, manager of Digital Innovation Attributes, Product Development, Ford Australia. “The all-new Ford Ranger is packed with the latest safety features and technologies aimed at giving customers peace of mind as they drive.”

Active driver control

New to Ranger is the ESP active safety system, that improves driver control under all conditions and maximises vehicle traction and stability both on- and off-road. It uses advanced sensors to continuously monitor the path the vehicle is travelling on and compares it to the path the driver want to follow, as indicated by the steering wheel.

Ranger’s ESP system has been calibrated for both on- and off-road driving. When the driver selects 4WD high-range, the ESP control of the engine and brakes is adjusted to provide improved stability without any unnecessary interventions triggered by rough or bumpy road surfaces. The ESP system is disabled when 4WD low-range is engaged to provide the driver with full command of the engine torque.

While the ESP system is by default fully active when the vehicle is started, the driver can choose to leave it on, partially on, or off depending on the road conditions.

In 4WD high-range mode, the Stability Control can be deactivated while maintaining the brake intervention traction control. This setting is most suitable when driving in deep sand or on muddy surfaces where engine torque reductions from the ESP can limit mobility. In 4x2 vehicles, the driver can select the all-off mode when wheel spin in needed to power through deep snow, sand or mud.

Integrated safety technologies

Ranger comes with a complete suite of control features that are integrated in the ESP system to further improve vehicle stability and control.

Available on 4x4 models and activated via a switch on the instrument panel, the Hill Descent Control feature regulates the speed of the pickup when descending steep gradients. It automatically applies the brakes to slow the vehicle down to a set speed without the driver applying the brakes and without locking the brakes. Unlike some competitors where the set speed cannot be adjusted, the Ranger driver can increase or decrease the speed using the accelerator, brake, or cruise control buttons on the steering wheel.

When moving off up a slope either in forward or reverse gear, the Hill Launch Assist feature holds the brake pressure temporarily for two seconds, ensuring the pickup does not roll downhill. As the driver accelerates, the feature gradually reduces the brake pressure. It releases the brakes once the driving torque is enough to overcome the gradient, enabling the pickup to move up the slope smoothly. With this feature, a fully-loaded Ranger, which weighs about 3,200kg, is able to stop and then pull away on a 60% gradient – not a feat easily achieved by all trucks.

For those who need to tow a trailer, Ranger offers a Trailer Sway Control feature that mitigates the problem of "snaking", which can be caused by side winds, track ruts, sudden steering movements, or incorrectly laden trailer. When trailer sway occurs, the system detects the effect on the towing vehicle and operates to reduce the train speed by reducing engine torque and gradually increasing brake pressure on all wheels until the trailer sway stops.

Ranger also comes equipped with an Adaptive Load Control feature that adjusts the stability control depending on the load. It can tell whether the pickup is laden or not based on the speed of acceleration and will adjust the ESP control settings accordingly. This will prevent interventions from happening too early where they are unwanted or too late where there would be too much oversteer or understeer.

Ranger also offers a Roll-Over Mitigation safety feature that closely monitors the pickup’s speed, lateral acceleration, yaw motion and steering angle, and will identify potentially dangerous driving conditions that would lead to an untripped roll-over situation. Well before the situation becomes critical, the feature will cause the ESP system to intervene and control the vehicle speed to restore stability.

To further maximise traction at each driven wheel, Ranger comes with the Traction Control System which can prevent wheel spin proactively by precisely controlling engine torque to each wheel and by braking a spinning wheel completely.

Stopping quickly and effectively

Ranger’s ESP system also includes various braking technologies to ensure the shortest possible stopping distance under all circumstances. When the driver applies the brakes quickly in an emergency situation, the Emergency Brake Assist will provide additional pressure to the brake system to increase the braking force and reduce the distance required for the vehicle to stop. At the same time, the Emergency Brake Light feature will flash the indicator lights to warn other drivers during emergency braking.

Ranger’s Anti-Lock Brake System provides additional safety, especially with a Gravel Road Logic that further improves stopping distances on loose surfaces. The electronic brakeforce distribution maximises brake force used on the rear wheels as payload changes while maintaining optimal stability.

Ranger’s brakes – vented discs up front and drums at the rear – are among the largest in its class and are designed to provide maximum braking performance regardless of load conditions.To help reduce the possibility of pad contamination and rotor wear from pebbles that may become embedded between the rotor and pad, front brakes include a brake dust shield as standard equipment.

Keeping passengers and pedestrians safe

Ranger offers new passive safety technologies, with the availability and array of airbags dependent on the model and the market. Side curtain airbags are available on all cab styles for the first time. These airbags deploy from the headliner to provide a protective cushion for the head of outboard occupants in the event of a side impact and the curtain is designed to protect both rows of occupants by covering the upper side structure and glass from the A-pillar to the C-pillar.

Also standard are newly designed side thorax airbags, building on the protection offered by the high-strength passenger cell in side impacts. Thorax airbags deploy from the driver and front passenger seat, further cushioning the impact and reducing the crash forces experienced by occupants in the front seats.

All new frontal impact airbags are standard for the driver and passenger, along with seatbelt pretensioners and load limiters. Together these form the key parts of a frontal impact restraint system that has been designed to minimise the force applied to the wearer in a crash. The pretensioner ensures the restraint system starts absorbing energy as early as possible in a crash, while the load limiters and airbags reduce loads on the occupant as the vehicle rapidly comes to a stop.

There are three-point safety belts for all seating positions, while the Ford BeltMinder technology helps remind front-seat occupants to wear their belts. The seat belt reminder warning lamp illuminates and an audible warning will sound if the driver’s seat belt has not been fastened after the vehicle has moved off.

For the first time, a Thatcham Category 1 alarm system is standard on Ranger, depending on the market. The high-level system provides additional security with an audible alarm triggered by forced entry or a change in cabin pressure. The sensors act as a deterrent against unauthorised intrusion by picking up any movement within the vehicle.

On top of safety technologies, Ranger has been engineered to include Ford proprietary pedestrian protection features. This includes a “hexageneous” under-bonnet structure to reduce the potential for pedestrian head injuries and a front bumper design that incorporates energy-absorbing materials.

"The all-new Ranger combines the safety and security systems of passenger cars with the ruggedness and dependability of a pickup,” said Fountain. “It creates a combination of features and performance that is unmatched in the market today."

Ranger sets new standards in safety with a comprehensive suite of class-leading safety features including Electronic Stability Program, Trailer Sway Control and Hill Descent Control
New side-curtain, thorax and frontal-impact airbags
For the first time, a Thatcham Category 1 alarm system is standard on Ranger

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All New Ford Ranger Design Exdues Power, Presence And Confidence

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 19:41:59 +0000

The all-new global Ford Ranger has been designed to look powerful from every angle, echoing the toughness and capability a pickup is geared to deliver. Looking both muscular and contemporary, Ranger is equally at home on a farm or parked outside an upmarket restaurant.

High levels of spaciousness, comfort and craftsmanship further complete Ranger's transformation into the reliable workhorse that is also a refined family vehicle easily capable of carrying five adults.

At 5,359mm long (Double Cab) and 1,850mm wide, it remains easily manoeuvrable on narrow city streets and when parking, thanks to a responsive steering system that requires no more than 3.5 turns of the wheel lock-to-lock – one of the best in the segment.

Ranger will be offered in three cab bodystyles – Regular, Super and Double – all of which are among the roomiest in the segment. An innovation introduced by Ford on the Ranger in 2002, the Super Cab offers a 'Rear Access Panel' which is a unique four-door system, providing unobstructed access to the cabin via two forward-hinged doors and two rear-hinged access panels. The front doors and the rear panel doors link together, when closed, to provide a very strong B-pillar. A Chassis Cab version without the rear load box is also available on the Regular and Super Cab models.

To cater for a wide spectrum of customers in Europe, the Ranger will be available in four series choices: The Ranger family goes from a more ‘workhorse’ feel for the XL customer to a more luxurious feel for the XLT and Limited customer and an overtly sporty feel for the Wildtrak customer – with an extensive list of practical features.

“We tailored the Ranger series and configurations to accommodate a variety of customer applications and lifestyles around the world. Each series has its own distinctive look,” said Craig Metros, chief designer of the all-new Ranger.

“We designed to a wide spectrum. From our fleet buyers who expect a tough, workhorse with a hose-out interior to the executive who demands full leather seating with luxury sedan appointments."

The new look of tough
Blending together tough looks and kinetic design cues in a styling the designers call “21st Century Tough,” the team has designed a pickup that looks contemporary as well as rugged.

The traditional square form of the pickup has been sculpted to give Ranger a more modern and aerodynamic look. Its front end features a short overhang with the signature three-bar grille and flanking nostrils, reflecting global Ford truck design. The front end is chamfered from the grille back to the wheel arches with a body accent line that flows through the headlights to the hood, resulting in a tough and functional shape.

The cut lines, surface treatments and graphics tie in to the flowing design of the grille, headlights and hood, displaying an attention to detail usually only seen on cars and SUVs. The windscreen has been raked back for a sportier and more dynamic silhouette, while larger headlamps, bigger mirrors and stamped-in wheel lips provide an integrated look across all series and contribute to an aggressive and sporty stance.

Designers also raised the beltline significantly, providing superior cab protection for the driver and passengers. The bodyline flows from the top of the cargo box through the doors to the closing line of the clam-shell hood design, adding to Ranger’s powerful image.

“When it comes to designing cars and trucks, it’s all about nailing the proportions – the tyres to body stance, short front overhang, windscreen angle, and the right body to side glass relationship,” said Metros, a 24-year Ford veteran who has had an influential hand in Ford pickup design around the world.

“Our goal was to match the overall looks and presence to the capability and on-off road performance that the all-new Ranger will deliver. I believe we achieved a very confident, capable, modern, and sophisticated pickup for the global market."

A deeper box
Each cab type has a unique box that is designed to be part of the vehicle and more integrated into the cab with a slight curve to the top of the box. At the top of the tailgate, a slight rear spoiler helps raise overall fuel efficiency – a result of the collaboration between the design team and the aerodynamicists.

The higher beltline and raised rails of the load box increase Ranger’s functionality. The Regular Cab and the Super Cab have the biggest box volume in its class at 1.82 cubic metres and

1.45 cubic metres respectively while the Double Cab is among the best with 1.21 cubic metres.

Pockets above the wheel wells and along the side of the box allow owners to use timber inserts to carry full sheets of plasterboard or plywood. A flexible cargo management system is available where attachment points can be moved along a rail, instead of fixed points on the body, so providing a greater choice when tying down a load.

A 12-volt power socket is available where the load box liner is fitted. The power socket provides a 10-amp supply and is located conveniently in the box to allow customers to run tool charging and other electrical goods.

Comfortable and functional interior
The all-new Ranger offers a stylish look and feel with features and comfort normally found only in passenger cars. Designers combined tough functionality, high-quality materials and ergonomic controls that look high-tech to create an interior that is tough but not rough.

Inspired by contemporary designs in consumer products, the design team borrowed from the look of power tools which convey strength and durability while remaining simple and ergonomic to use. The G-Shock®1 watch – with its precision workings protected by a robust casing – was a major influence on the instrument cluster. The team created similar elements, including little recesses to the outside of the cluster, to give it a more rugged appearance.

The centre section of the console has been purposefully designed to integrate the full-colour satellite navigation screen, audio functions and controls for the dual electronic automatic air conditioning system. A traditional, lever-style parking brake and a smaller steering wheel with adjustable column further reinforce the car-like feel of the interior.

Great care has been taken when selecting the interior colour scheme, so that dirt doesn’t show while ensuring the surfaces do not appear too dark. Graphics and textures were also used throughout the cabin to accentuate areas such as buttons and switches that customers touch and interact with the most. A combination of colours, grain and non-reflective materials help control glare and reflections on the windscreen, hence improving visibility and safety.

Up front, drivers get a commanding view of the road and off-road obstacles, thanks to the high seating position. The driver’s seat is available with two-way, four-way or eight-way adjustability. The premium eight-way power adjustable seat is new to Ranger and offers tailored seating at the touch of a button.

In the rear, the Double Cab offers improved comfort and leg room, with seats that can flip up and be secured for additional load space or access to valuable under-seat stowage. The seats also feature ‘shingle’ type head restraints, which allow for improved rearward visibility when not in use.

All seats are finished with materials that will stand up to the demands of a ‘workhorse’ while delivering a lasting quality appearance. From the no-fuss fabric seats of the XL series to the cloth trim and leather option of the higher series, all materials used in the new Ranger were subjected to heavy-duty testing for commercial vehicle use.

“We’ve paid careful attention to every little detail to deliver a pickup truck that is world-class both inside and out,” said Metros. “The all-new Ford Ranger is every bit as capable, modern and dynamic as it looks and feels.”

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New Ford Ranger Conquers Every Task And Terrain With More Capability Than Ever

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 19:38:40 +0000

With best-in-class towing and water-wading capabilities as well as exceptional payload capacity and ground clearance, the all-new global Ford Ranger can get the toughest jobs done in the toughest locations.

Commercial users looking to transport heavy materials will welcome Ranger’s outstanding payload capacity - more than 1,300kg on some variants - while owners wanting to tow anything from horse boxes to boats will value the pick-up’s top-notch towing capacity of up to 3,350kg.

Ranger's benchmark water-wading capability of 800mm and excellent ground clearance of up to 232mm enable drivers to go deeper or climb higher. It not only caters for companies requiring a sturdy pick-up to traverse tough terrain, but also for customers who either enjoy recreational off-roading or travel further afield into more remote locations because their hobbies demand it.

Even if Ranger gets mired in deep sand, snow or mud, engineers have provided a towing hook up front to pull the vehicle free. This front hook rated at 6,000kg is standard on 4x4 models.

“Our customers want a pick-up that is tough enough to withstand rough conditions and capable enough to handle any challenge thrown at it,” said Stephan Presser, manager of Vehicle Engineering, Product Development, Ford Australia. “Ranger was painstakingly developed, meticulously engineered and rigorously tested to ensure it can do all this and more.”

Going off road
An all-new compact front differential, new upgraded rear axle and lower overall ratios, all contribute to Ranger’s superior off-road capability, which begins with a robust electronically controlled transfer case – for both manual and automatic transmissions – allowing drivers to shift on the fly from 4x2 to 4x4 high any time via a knob conveniently located on the centre console.

Low-range gearing in 4x4 models can be enabled for extra-low-speed torque or additional downhill braking.

When the low-range gears are engaged, the throttle response is changed to an off-road setting which provides a less sensitive, softer pedal feel. This prevents unintentional acceleration due to the bouncing motion of the driver’s foot while moving over bumpy ground. The logic control also changes the shift points for the automatic transmission.

Ranger's Electronic Stability Program (ESP) system also includes off-road logic which recognises when the pick-up is driven on rough roads and modifies the system to ensure the best balance between stability and timeliness of interventions.

In 4x4 models, the system can be partially switched off to disable over- and under-steer control as well as engine torque reductions, while maintaining brake intervention traction control. This setting is most suitable when driving through deep sand or extreme mud as vehicle momentum can be maintained whilst maximising available grip. The ESP can be switched to a second setting to further amend the ESP braking intervention that aids the initial pull away in snow and icy conditions.

“Ranger is a very composed vehicle even when going off the beaten track,” said Ford dynamics supervisor Sam Ellis. “Composure describes how comfortably and easily a vehicle tackles difficult obstacles and terrains. If a vehicle is composed, you don’t have to charge at an obstacle to get over it or rush through things to get past difficult terrain.

“This allows the vehicle to be driven in a more controlled manner. It’s more relaxing for the driver and reduces the risk of damaging the vehicle. So composure was a very important attribute that we built into Ranger’s off-road capability.”

Avoiding wheel spin
To give Ranger even more composure, it comes with ESP as standard which includes the latest Traction Control System (TCS) to maintain vehicle stability by maximising traction at each driven wheel more effectively than a limited slip differential would. A limited slip differential reacts to wheel spin by partially locking the differential action of the drive axle and diverting a portion of the engine torque to the wheel with more grip.

The TCS is able to control wheel spin, and in some cases avoid it completely, on all four wheels in 4x4 mode – something that a limited slip differential cannot achieve. It is able to reduce engine torque to the precise level that can be delivered to the ground through the wheels as well as to brake a spinning wheel completely, allowing all the available engine torque to the wheel, or wheels, with the most grip.

This system utilises both brake and engine torque control in parallel. Engine TCS reduces engine torque to reduce wheel spin and is always applied first. Brake TCS applies a brake force to the spinning wheel. It is the ability of TCS to precisely control the way engine torque is delivered to the wheels that results in better traction, acceleration and stability on loose and slippery surfaces than a limited slip differential can provide. Given the superiority of the TCS, a limited slip differential will not be offered as an option on Ranger.

The TCS also provides active safety measures by preventing wheel spin in extreme situations such as during severe cornering where wheel spin may occur. A spinning wheel cannot provide lateral forces and the vehicle may oversteer with the driver losing control.

“Every driver dreads wheel spin which is not only inconvenient but can also be very dangerous,” said Presser. “Ranger’s precise Traction Control System ensures that even on extremely slippery surfaces, you can still get to your destination safely.”

Built Ford Tough
To give the all-new Ford Ranger its rugged credentials, the product development team not only extensively tested the pick-up but also found innovative solutions to tuck key components out of harm’s way, such as placing them higher up in the vehicle and finding clever locations for them so that they will not get damaged if the pick-up hits the ground or a rock.

For example, the fuel tank is higher than the frame, which means it will never bottom out. Driveline components are mounted above the frame rail so that items like the transfer case and oil pan are protected by strong crossmembers. Vulnerable components such as the engine, radiator and fuel tank get another level of protection through additional shields.

Ranger’s approach, breakover and departure angles were designed to enable it to take on challenging paths. Key electrical components, air inlets and the alternator are strategically placed high in the engine compartment, so that the 4x4 models can wade through up to 800mm of water, giving customers the confidence to ford rivers or floods.

Ranger also went through extreme testing around the world to make sure it could stand up to the rigours of punishing terrains and temperatures. Tested in Australia, Dubai, Thailand, North America, Brazil, Sweden and South Africa, it had to face severe heat and cold, monsoon rains, high altitudes as well as rushing rivers, arid deserts and potholed roads. Prototypes clocked more than a million kilometres on the road, supported by countless hours of exhaustive testing in laboratories.

“We gave the Ranger a really good workout and truly pushed it to its limits to make sure it lives up to what it promises,” said Presser. “If you think about it, a million kilometres of on-road testing is equivalent to us driving the Ranger to the moon and back, plus another six rounds around the Earth.

“We kept throwing challenges at it and it’s never let us down. Ranger’s capability gives you peace of mind when you’re far away from the next sealed road. It’s a pick-up that feels good on unpaved country roads, goes places on soft ground, and tackles obstacles with quiet confidence.”

Ranger can haul more than its competitors with a towing capacity of up to 3,340kg and a payload capacity up to 1,350kg
Outstanding ground clearance of up to 232mm and class-leading water-wading capability of 800mm
Ranger’s Traction Control System, part of the Electronic Stability Program, can prevent wheel spin proactively by precisely controlling engine torque to each wheel and by braking a spinning wheel completely

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All New Ford Ranger, Preliminary Technical Specifications Released

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 19:35:09 +0000

Structure
Computer-optimized, high-efficiency, unitary-welded steel, body on frame

Body
Optimized frame and body structure to achieve moderate deceleration levels whilst minimizing intrusions into the passenger compartment in offset and straight front impacts, side impacts and rear impacts.
Front end optimized for pedestrian protection, with energy absorbing material in the front bumper and 'hexageneous' under-bonnet structure
Passive safety and restraint system elements

Ford Intelligent Protection System (IPS) featuring:
Full size driver and passenger airbags
Driver knee airbag
Standard inflatable side curtains for front and second row occupants
Standard thorax-protecting side airbags for front occupants
Three-point safety belts in all positions
Safety belt reminders for driver & front passenger
Safety belt pretensioners and load limiters for driver & front passenger
Passenger airbag deactivation switch
ISOFIX anchor points for the rear outer seats

Security system elements
Thatcham Cat1 alarm with interior scanning capability, with Battery Back-up Sounder
Advanced Ford PATS immobiliser
Remote and manual key operated central locking

Corrosion protection
12 year anti-corrosion warranty.

Aerodynamics
Ranger Double Cab
CD: 040
A: 2.86

Suspension
Front – Independent front suspension with coil-over-strut design
Rear – Rigid leafs springs

Steering
Type – Rack and pinion steering, power assisted
Turning circle (m, Kerb-to-Kerb) – 11.8 (4x2); 12.4 (4x4)
Turns lock-to-lock – 3.5

Brakes
Front – ventilated discs, 302 x 32mm
Rear – drums, 270 x 55mm (4x2); 295 x 55mm (4x4)
Standard: Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Brake Assist.
ESP system features: Hill Descent Control (HDC), Hill Launch Assist (HLA), Trailer Sway Mitigation (TSM), Load Adaptive Control (LAC), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Emergency Brake Light (EBL), Roll-Over Mitigation (ROM)

Engine Type
2.2L Duratorq TDCi 150 PS/120 kW
Displacement (cc) 2198
Bore (mm) 86
Stroke (mm) 94.6
Fuel type, grade Diesel GOPS A10 B10 Gazole EN590 with 10% of FAME EN14214
Max power (ISO kW/PS) 120/150
At engine speed (rpm) 3700
Max torque (ISO Nm) 375
At engine speed (rpm) 1500-2500
Compression ratio 15.7:1
Cylinders 4 in line
Turbocharger Variable Geometry Turbocharger with position sensor
Fuel injection High-pressure common-rail with fuel pressure 1800bar
Emission controls Coated Diesel Particulate Filter (cDPF)
Oxidation catalyst
Water cooled EGR
Emission level Euro Stage V
Transmission type: Ford MT82 manual 6-speed Ford 6R80 automatic 6-speed
Gear ratios
6th 0.794 0.691
5th 1 0.867
4th 1.223 1.143
3rd 1.721 1.521
2nd 2.839 2.342
1st 5.441 4.171
Reverse 4.935 3.4
Final Drive (4x2) 3.31 -
Final Drive (4x4) 3.55 3.73
Hydraulically operated self-adjust clutch with dual mass flywheel 6-speed automatic transmission with manual Sport Mode, Brake Shift Interlock, Grade Control Logic (Automatic modes), Emergency downshift (Manual mode)
4x4 Transfer box Two speed, right hand drop, single offset , aluminium shift-on-the-fly transfer box
4x4 ratios 1:1 (High Range)
2.48:1 (Low Range)
Max. speed when switching 120 km/h

Engine Type
3.2L Duratorq TDCi 200 PS/147 kW
Displacement (cc) 3198
Bore (mm) 89.9
Stroke (mm) 100.76
Fuel type, grade Diesel GOPS A10 B10 Gazole EN590 with 10% of FAME EN14214
Max power (ISO kW/PS) 147/200
At engine speed (rpm) 3000
Max torque (ISO Nm) 470
At engine speed (rpm) 1500-2750
Compression ratio 15.7:1
Cylinders 5 in line
Turbocharger Variable Geometry Turbocharger with position sensor
Fuel injection High-pressure common-rail with fuel pressure 1800bar
Emission controls Coated Diesel Particulate Filter (cDPF)
Oxidation catalyst
Water cooled EGR
Emission level Euro Stage V
Transmission type: Ford MT82 manual 6-speed Ford 6R80 automatic 6-speed
Gear ratios
6th 0.794 0.691
5th 1 0.867
4th 1.223 1.143
3rd 1.721 1.521
2nd 2.839 2.342
1st 5.441 4.171
Reverse 4.935 3.4
Final Drive (4x4) 3.55 3.73
Hydraulically operated self-adjust clutch with dual mass flywheel 6-speed automatic transmission with manual Sport Mode, Brake Shift Interlock, Grade Control Logic (Automatic modes), Emergency downshift (Manual mode)
4x4 Transfer box Two speed, right hand drop, single offset , aluminium shift-on-the-fly transfer box
4x4 ratios 1:1 (High Range)
2.48:1 (Low Range)
Max. speed for on-the-fly shifting 120 km/h

Dimensions and capacities
Exterior (mm) Single Cab Super Cab Double Cab
Overall length 5274 5359 5359
Overall width 1850 1850 1850
Overall height max (empty vehicle) 1800 (1703) 1804 1815
Wheelbase 3220 3220 3220
Ground clearance 229 229 232
Wading depth (4x4) 800 (600) 800 (600) 800
Front tread (4x4) 1560 (1590) 1560 1560
Rear tread (4x4) 1560 (1590) 1560 1560
Front overhang 905 905 905
Rear overhang 1149 1226 1226
Angles (deg.)
Approach angle n.a. n.a. 27.7°
Departure angle n.a. n.a. 25.9°
Ramp angle n.a. n.a. 24.4°
Interior (mm)
Front (mm)
Headroom 1024 1024 1022
Max. leg room 1058 1058 1058
Shoulder room 1437 1437 1440
Rear (mm)
Headroom - 938 975
Max. legroom - 796 902
Shoulder room - 1400 1430
Cargo Bed (mm)
Width 1544 1544 1544
Width between arches 1139 1139 1139
Length 2317 1847 1560
Height 511 511 511
Loading height 835 (724) 835 835

Different figures for 4x2 versions in brackets.
Weights
Versions Minimum kerbweight (kg) Gross Vehicle Mass (kg) Gross Payload Max. towable mass (kg)
(kg)
Single Cab
2.2L TDCi 150 PS 4x2 1791 2925 1134 2500 (750)
2.2L TDCi 150 PS 4x4 1891 3200 1309 3350 (750)
Super Cab
2.2L TDCi 150 PS 4x2 1835 2925 1090 2500 (750)
2.2L TDCi 150 PS 4x4 1946 3200 1254 3350 (750)
Double Cab
2.2L TDCi 150 PS 4x4 2048 3200 1152 3350 (750)
2.2L TDCi 150 PS 4x4 automatic 2063 3200 1137 3350 (750)
3.2L TDCi 200 PS 4x4 2073 3200 1127 3350 (750)
3.2L TDCi 200 PS 4x4 automatic 2083 3200 1117 3350 (750)
Minimum kerbweight represents the lightest kerbweight including full fluid levels and 90% fuel levels, subject to manufacturing tolerances and options, etc. fitted
Towing limits quoted represent the maximum braked towing capacity of the vehicle on a 12 per cent gradient at sea level – unbraked towing capacities in brackets.
The performance and economy of all models will be reduced when used for towing.80 kg roof load for all versions. 220 kg tongue load for all versions.

Economy, Performance and Emissions
2.2 litre Duratorq TDCi 3.2 litre Duratorq TDCi
Performance (PS) 150 200
Body Styles all all
Transmission Type 6-speed manual 6-speed automatic 6-speed manual 6-speed automatic
Euro Emissions Stage Stage V Stage V Stage V Stage V
CO2Emissions (g/km)* 228 (219) 264 264 281
Urban fuel consumption*l/100km (mpg) 27.4 (28.5) 22.6 23 21.6

Extra Urban fuel consumption l/100km (mpg)* 37.2 (38.7) 33.2 32.8 30.7
Combined fuel consumption l/100km (mpg)* 32.8 (34.0) 28.3 28.3 28.7
Max Speed km//h (mph)* 109 (103) 109 109 109
* Figures for 4x2 version in brackets. All CO2 emissions figures in g/km and fuel consumption figures are from officially approved tests in accordance with EC Directive 93/116/EC. Fuel economy figures quoted are based on the European Fuel Economy Directive EU 80/1268/EEC and will differ from fuel economy drive cycle results in other regions of the world.Note: This information reflects preliminary specifications and was correct at the time of going to print. However, Ford policy is one of continuous product improvement. The right is reserved to change these details at any time.

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Prices Announced For New Ford Ranger - Tough, Capable, Stylish, Safe and Comfortable

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 19:08:17 +0000

The all-new Ford Ranger combines the toughness and capability of a pickup truck with smart technology, outstanding safety and the highest standards of quality and comfort. The new Ranger goes on sale next month from £15,515 (on-the-road, excluding VAT).

Ranger will be offered in three cab bodystyles – Double, Super and Regular – along with an extensive list of practical features that are available across XL, XLT, Limited and Wildtrak models. The pickup will also come in 4x2 and 4x4 drivetrains.

Totally new from the ground up, Ranger was designed and developed to be best-in-class or amongst the leaders in every area important to customers, especially those whose use spans both work and leisure. Ranger now delivers more payload and class-leading towing capability and, at the same time, is fitted out with innovative and comfort features that a dual user has come to expect.

“The all-new Ranger is a perfect example of how our ‘One Ford’ global strategy works,” said Ford of Europe chairman and CEO Stephen Odell. “Far from producing a vehicle that is compromised by the need to serve different market requirements, it was developed by drawing on resources, facilities and expertise from Ford locations around the world to deliver an excellent product that will satisfy customers everywhere.

“The range of qualities pickup customers demand from their vehicle is far greater than the differences in conditions from country to country. The real challenge has been to build a Ranger that is tough and yet comfortable, rugged yet stylish, safe, technologically advanced and powerful, yet remaining affordable. We believe the team has succeeded in every goal. There is no compromise here.”

Developed for the world
Designed and developed by a global team headquartered in Australia, the new Ranger platform takes advantage of global Ford assets, particularly robust engines and six-speed transmissions proven in tough commercial-vehicle usage. The design and product development teams also had full access to Ford’s global capabilities, testing facilities and extensive pickup truck knowledge.

The collaboration was crucial in developing the all-new Ranger. Everything is new – engines, gearboxes, frame, suspension, steering system, brakes, chassis, exterior sheet metal and vehicle interior. The list continues with brand-new features for safety and passenger comfort.

“Ranger is truly all-new,” said Jim Baumbick, engineering director, Product Development, Ford Asia Pacific and Africa. “Developing this pickup from scratch was an exciting opportunity that allowed us to benchmark what our competitors are doing, listen to what truck customers around the world want and deliver a vehicle that meets and exceeds expectations.”

Using latest computer technologies, the product development team conducted about 30,000 computer-aided assessments on areas such as safety, durability, ergonomics, vehicle dynamics and aerodynamics during the virtual phase. Of these, 7,500 virtual assessments were carried out in the under-body to ensure a robust vehicle foundation and more than 10,000 virtual assessments on the upper-body to align styling and functional requirements.

Once Ranger prototypes were ready, they were tested extensively in 15 countries around the world to deliver a vehicle that is tough enough for the harsh conditions of the Australian Outback, provides confidence when driven on high-speed German autobahns and is reliable when driven for hours in the endlessness of the Argentinean Pampa.

Tested in places such as Australia, Dubai, Thailand, North America, Brazil, Sweden and South Africa, Ranger had to face severe heat and cold, monsoon rains, high altitudes as well as rushing rivers, arid deserts and potholed roads. Prototypes clocked more than a million kilometres on the road supported by countless hours of exhaustive testing in state-of-the-art laboratories.

Volume production was initiated in Thailand, for markets in the Asia Pacific region and followed by the newly revamped manufacturing facilities in South Africa, which produces Ranger for the home market and Europe, as well as emerging markets in Africa. Later this year, Argentina will begin production of the pickup for South America. Ultimately, Ranger will be sold in 180 markets, making it one of the farthest-reaching Ford products in the world.

‘21st Century Tough’ styling
Exuding power and confidence in a styling that the designers call “21st Century Tough”, the taut and muscular Ranger is equally at home on a construction site or outside an upmarket restaurant. Its front end features a short overhang with the signature three-bar grille, a global Ford truck design cue.

The windscreen has been raked back for a sportier and more dynamic silhouette, while the traditional square form of the truck has been sculpted to give the vehicle a more modern and aerodynamic look. Larger headlamps, bigger mirrors and stamped-in wheel lips provide an integrated look across all series and contribute to an aggressive and sporty stance.

Designers also raised the beltline significantly, along with the rails of the load box, giving the Ranger a substantive presence on the road while increasing its functionality with the deeper box. The Regular Cab and the Super Cab have the biggest box volume in its class at 1.82 cubic metres and 1.45 cubic metres respectively while the Double Cab is among the top with 1.21 cubic metres.

At 5,359mm long and 1,850mm wide, the new Ranger is bigger than the previous-generation model, but remains easily manoeuvrable on narrow city streets and during parking, thanks to a responsive steering system requiring no more than 3.5 turns of the wheel lock-to-lock – one of the best in the segment.

A smart and comfortable interior
The all-new Ranger offers a contemporary look and feel with features and comfort normally found only in passenger cars. Bold new interior surfaces are finished with materials that will stand up to the demands of a workhorse while delivering a lasting quality appearance.

The B-pillar in the Double Cab has also been moved forward, delivering best-in-class rear leg room and knee clearance. Three adults can easily fit in the second row of the Double Cab while two six-footers can comfortably sit one behind the other.

Making full use of the spacious interior, the Ranger Double Cab offers 23 storage spaces in the cabin – more practical stowage than any competitor. Its deep centre console bin is the biggest in its class at 8.5 litres and can cool up to six cans of beverage in models with a duct from the air-conditioning.

The glove box is large enough to accommodate a 16-in laptop computer, while door pockets can comfortably take 1.5-litre water bottles. Ample storage for mobile phones and other small items can be found in the console and in areas within easy reach of the driver. Underneath the rear seats, a convenient hidden storage area for tools can be easily accessed.

Poised to be a leader in innovation, the new Ranger comes with smart technologies that make the pickup easier, safer and more fun to drive. On selected models with Bluetooth®1, USB and iPod®2connectivity, there is voice control over the radio, CD, iPod, USB, electronic air-conditioning and mobile phone functions. Dual-zone climate control and cruise control are available on the high series while selected models offer a five-inch colour screen with satellite navigation.

More muscle at greater fuel efficiency
The all-new Ford Ranger powertrains have been engineered to give customers a superior combination of power and torque at class-leading fuel efficiency. Three new engines are available to suit every purpose and pocket.

Leading the way is Ranger’s new 3.2 litre five-cylinder diesel engine. With a flat torque curve giving higher levels of torque over a broad rpm, Ranger is able to pull full loads on the highway easily without having to change gear. Ninety percent of its peak 470Nm torque is available from 1,700 to 3,500rpm, providing better engine flexibility. The fuel consumption of the 3.2 litre engine in a combined cycle is ranging from 28.3mpg on a 4x4 manual transmission variant to 28.7mpg on a full-option 4x4 model with automatic transmission*.

For those who require an engine with a smaller displacement, the 2.2 litre four-cylinder diesel engine delivers peak torque output of 375Nm and power output of 150PS by utilising variable geometry turbochargers that allow more accurate control of boost pressure over a wider operating range. This enables lower-end torque capability for improved launch and driveability while deliver the engine fuel efficient. When fitted to a 4x2 model, the 2.2 litre engine consumes 32.8mpg in a combined cycle*.

For the first time, selected Ranger diesel models will be available with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission to provide reduced engine rpm and extend its range on long highway trips or in city traffic.

“Our all-new engine family bears out our commitment to make Ranger the clear choice for today’s pickup customer,” said Gary Boes, vehicle line director, Product Development, Ford Asia Pacific and Africa. “We know they want more power, more torque, and we deliver all that – as well as increased fuel economy and reduced emissions.”

Class-leading capability
The all-new Ranger has been engineered and tested to ensure it can stand up to the toughest challenge. It can tow more, carry more, wade deeper and climb higher than many competitors.

In fact, Ranger’s towing and water-wading capabilities are right at the top of the segment. Ranger can tow up to 3,350kg on selected models with diesel engines while the 4x4 can wade through 800 millimetres of water even when fully laden. It also boasts outstanding payload capacity of more than 1,340kg on some 4x4 variants, as well as excellent ground clearance of up to 232mm.

For those aiming to go off the beaten track, Ranger’s superior off-road capability has been enhanced by an all-new front differential, a new upgraded rear axle and lower overall ratios. A robust electronically controlled transfer case – for both manual and automatic transmissions – allows drivers to shift on the fly from 4x2 to 4x4 high anytime via a knob on the centre console.

To give drivers even more confidence when going off-road, selected Ranger models come with a Traction Control System which maintains vehicle stability by maximising traction at each driven wheel. Unlike a limited slip differential, it is able to reduce the level of engine torque to the exact amount that can be delivered to the ground through the wheels as well as brake a spinning wheel completely, allowing all the available engine torque to the wheel, or wheels, with the most grip.

“Ranger’s rugged capability was purposefully engineered and carefully crafted into the pickup,” added Jim Baumbick. “We wanted to give customers a tough truck that they can truly rely on whether in high waters, on challenging terrains, or just commuting to work.”

New levels of ride quality and chassis control
The same level of detail that makes Ranger stand out in a crowd will set it apart from the competition with an entirely new chassis that provides even more capability along with car-like quietness, reduced steering effort, more precise handling and better on-road stability.

Up front, a new coil-over-strut suspension allows for better tuning of the upper and lower wishbone design. The suspension set-up, while similar for two- and four-wheel drive models, has unique capabilities and has been tuned with specific damper valving and spring rates on all models to compensate for weight, centre of gravity, engine torque and drive distribution.

Giving drivers more precise steering control, Ranger’s new rack-and-pinion steering system has been carefully tuned for low-speed manoeuvrability and responsive on-road driving.

Ranger more than holds its own in cabin quietness, an attribute not often associated with a pickup truck. From being better sealed and having stiffer doors than competitors to using sound-deadening materials in the doors, roof and body, Ranger introduces high levels of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) refinement.

Advanced safety protection
New to Ranger, selected models are equipped with the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) using advanced sensors to continuously monitor the path the vehicle is travelling on and compares it to the path the driver want to follow, as indicated by the steering wheel.

Integrated into the ESP are other new control features that assist vehicle stability and control:

Hill Descent Control: Helps the driver on steep downhill grades
Hill Launch Assist: Helps the driver pull away on steep climbs
Trailer Sway Control: Provides stability control when towing a trailer
Adaptive Load Control: Optimal vehicle stability regardless of vehicle load
Emergency Brake Assist: Provides additional brake pressure in emergency stopping manoeuvres
Emergency Brake Light: Signals to other drivers by flashing the indicators when the vehicle decelerates quickly
Roll-Over Mitigation: Helps prevent the vehicle getting into a roll-over situation

Ranger also offers new passive safety technologies, with the availability and array of airbags dependent on the model. Side curtain airbags are available on all cab styles for the first time.

These airbags deploy from the headliner to provide a protective cushion for the head of outboard occupants in the event of a side impact and the curtain is designed to protect both rows of occupants by covering the upper side structure and glass from the A-pillar to the C-pillar.

Also available are newly designed side thorax airbags which deploy from the driver and front passenger seats, further cushioning the impact and reducing the crash forces experienced by occupants in the front seats. All-new frontal impact airbags are available for the driver and passenger, along with seatbelt pretensioners and load limiters.

“The all-new Ranger is the culmination of four years of hard work by almost 500 engineers in Australia and around the Ford world,” said Boes. “The Ranger has been designed, engineered and produced to lead in its segment. It is capable, comfortable, powerful, fuel-efficient, safe – and it is a pickup that anyone will be proud to own and confident to drive.”

The new Ford Ranger goes on sale next month priced from £15,515
Top-of-the-range Double Cab Wildtrak, 3.2 litre 200PS TDCi, automatic is £25,040
The taut and toned all-new Ranger comprehensively transforms the pickup truck ownership experience with more capability, power, innovative features, comfort and safety
Two new Ford Duratorq TDCi diesels deliver outstanding torque
Best-in-class towing capability of 3,350kg and water-wading capability of 800mm set Ranger above the rest. Payload capacity goes up to more than 1,340kg
Ranger is one of the most high-tech pickups, featuring smart technologies such as Bluetooth®1 with Voice Control and Rear View Camera system

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Transit Connect Electric Helps Complete Eco Cycle

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 19:04:37 +0000

The Transit Connect Electric has found favour with residents of the UK’s greenest community at Unity Gardens in Long Sutton in Lincolnshire, after showing it can cost less than £50 annually to power Ford’s light commercial vehicle.

Residents of the eco-friendly community lived with the Transit Connect Electric for a day, carrying out day-to-day jobs such as, taking children to school, delivering waste to be recycled and transporting their home-grown crops.

Unity Gardens was created by award-winning eco-architect Dr Jerry Harrall, who said: “The electric vehicle is an obvious natural progression for Unity Gardens. The residents are generating more energy than they are using so it makes sense for them to take advantage of the excess to power an electric vehicle.”

According to Dr Harrall, figures show that an average two-bedroom home will consume around 28,000 kilowatt hours (kWhrs) of energy per annum, while a Unity Gardens house will go through just 6,000 kWhrs of energy in a year.

Since each home generates 7,500 kWhrs per annum thanks to the sustainable technology of solar panels on each property, the scheme puts more energy into the National Grid than it is taking out. The surplus going back into the National Grid of 1,500 kWhrs is enough to charge the Transit Connect Electric more than 50 times in one year, providing enough power to drive nearly 5,000 miles at an annual cost of about £46.50.

The Unity Gardens sustainable community grow their own vegetables, manage hives of 150,000 bees, take care of more than 20 chickens and harvest rainfall for essentials such as toilet flushing as well as the watering of plants.

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New Ford Fiesta "Metal" Scores In Auto Express Top Ten

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 18:58:12 +0000

The new Ford Fiesta Metal special edition 134PS hot hatch is in the top 10 of motoring magazine Auto Express’ Performance Cars of the Year 2011. Ford’s supermini ranks seventh amongst 30 finalists, rated higher than entries from Bentley, Porsche, Aston Martin, Maserati and Lotus.

Auto Express motoring writer, Luke Madden said: “The Fiesta Metal evokes the spirit of an old-school hot hatch. It’s simple, lightweight and has an engine that doesn’t produce peak power until 6,700rpm. For such an affordable hatch to make such a big impression is a real achievement. Few cars provide as much enjoyment as the Fiesta.

“Every time we drive the supermini we’re reminded of the magic Ford’s engineers have sprinkled on the chassis. On the road its supple ride, perfectly weighted steering and sharp responses come to the fore.”

Priced from £15,695 on-the-road, and limited to just 1000 examples, the Ford Fiesta Metal boasts 134PS at 6,700rpm and 160Nm of torque at 4,250rpm from its 1.6-litre, Duratec Ti-VCT petrol engine, and can reach 62mph in just 8.7sec.

Anthony Ireson, Ford of Britain's marketing director, said: "The Ford Fiesta has a significant heritage as a great driver’s car. The Auto Express accolade is a testament to how much work we put into making our cars special for today’s drivers."

Based on the popular three-door 120PS Ford Fiesta Zetec-S, the Fiesta Metal boasts: chrome twin exhaust pipes, silver-painted front grille surround, front aerofoil and front fog light bezels, Piano Black painted centre stack bezel, air vent rings and door pulls, Ebony Black leather sports seats with silver contrast stitching, unique floor mats with silver piping, stainless steel door scuff plates with Fiesta logo, 17" Black alloy wheels and sports tuning with lowered ride height.

The new Ford Fiesta Metal's standard specification includes: Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Home Safe headlights, Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS), Intelligent Protection System (IPS), front, side and knee airbags and anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). It is available in Panther Black, Midnight Sky and Frozen White.

Ford Fiesta Metal special edition makes Auto Express’ top Performance Cars of The Year
At £15,695 on-the-road, Fiesta Metal is the least expensive of all 30 finalists
Rated higher than finalists costing almost ten times more
Produces 134PS from 1.6-litre, Duratec Ti-VCT petrol engine
17-in black alloy wheels

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All New Ford Ranger's Innovative Interior Offers More Room And Practical Storage Areas

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 18:55:39 +0000

Whether taking the all-new Ford Ranger on a long journey or just around the corner, customers will appreciate the high levels of comfort in the cabin, starting with its spacious interior, the ample stowage space and latest smart technologies that all help make the pick-up easier, safer and more fun to drive.

Ranger has more storage spaces, and more leg room in the second row, than any of its competitors. It has a special deep centre console bin which can store up to six drinks cans and keep them cool in models with a duct from the air-conditioning.

One of the most high-tech vehicles in its segment, Ranger boasts intelligent features such as Bluetooth®1 with Voice Control and a Rear View Camera System, where the camera image is displayed in the rear view mirror.

“Ranger combines true truck capability with a high level of comfort and convenience features,” said Con Papadomanolakis, manager, Electrical Integration, Ford Asia Pacific and Africa. “With the many storage spaces, high levels of craftsmanship and clever technologies, Ranger turns your drive into your cosy home on the road.”

A place for every item

The Ranger Double Cab model boasts 23 stowage spaces in the cabin which can store a wide number and variety of objects. Door pockets can easily accept 1.5 litre bottles, while the glove box is big enough for a 16-in laptop computer. A separate driver’s glove box provides greater accessibility to items such as a can of soft drink, sunglasses or keys. Ample storage for mobile phones and other small items can be found in the console and in areas within easy reach of the driver.

Other than being able to keep beverages cool, the 8.5 litre centre console bin – largest in the segment – is also big enough to hold CDs, 600ml bottles and takeaway food containers. The console bin also has an upper tray to store a mobile phone and coins.

At the back, the rear seats fold up to reveal hidden storage bins for items such as tools, rope or 4x4 recovery straps. The seats also fold down to accommodate a jack, tyre inflator, a one-litre oil bottle and a first aid kit for example. On selected models, the centre armrest in the rear seatback also folds down and includes two cupholders.

“We intentionally went for the biggest spaces wherever we could. Where the competitors fit only smaller bottles, we can fit larger ones,” said David Stanley, package supervisor, Product Development, Ford Australia.

Stanley’s team chased down every spare millimetre in the cabin to deliver class-leading stowage. Instead of succumbing to the easy solution of making something bigger whenever an engineering problem cropped up, they relentlessly squeezed out every millimetre to reduce wasted space.

“We were very passionate over every millimetre,” he added. “That’s the difference between a good truck and a great truck – lots of attention to every last millimetre.”

Stocking up on creature comforts

Select models with the Bluetooth®1 Voice Control system allow drivers to operate their mobile phone, audio system, satellite navigation system and climate control using voice-activated commands – all wirelessly.

The voice control buttons are located on the steering wheel and are conveniently accessible when driving, leaving the driver free to keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel. Voice commands are detected by a microphone in the cab.

The driver can easily make or take phone calls and access the mobile’s phone book and calling history. The system can also record voice tags for favourite numbers. In the same way, the driver has effortless control over the radio, CD player, iPod® and other external devices via the USB port. It is also possible to audio stream via Bluetooth from a mobile phone to the Ranger’s audio system, which negates the need for connection leads.

Ranger’s audio system is an integral and unique part of the centre dashboard, effectively deterring theft. The Human Machine Interface on the central control panel is inspired by the latest communication devices, with a joy stick as a central control element and a soft feel number pad to enter phone numbers. The optional in-dash navigation system, integrated with the audio system, provides audio and visual direction to the programmed destination via a five-inch colour screen, along with current location and surrounding details. Maps are stored and upgraded via an SD card.

To further improve interior comfort, the new-to-Ranger dual zone climate control allows the driver and passenger to set separate temperature settings.

“The Bluetooth® Voice Control system sets Ranger apart from other competitors because it keeps the driver safely connected with their customers and business, while being able to enjoy the convenience of their Bluetooth enabled phone and automatic climate control systems while on the road – all with a voice command,” said Papadomanolakis.

Premium comfort and convenience features

New from the ground up, Ranger now utilises a common global electrical architecture that is also shared with the current Ford Focus and Ford Mondeo. This means that engineers are able to use globally developed and engineered components in the all-new Ranger platform, resulting in more new features and technologies in the pick-up, which can be upgraded in the future.

For a start, selected Ranger models will have cruise control, theatre-dimming, drive-away locking, rain-sensing wipers, automatic wiper park, auto defrosting, an electro-chromatic rear view mirror that automatically dims to prevent glare from the lights of following vehicles, and a Thatcham Category 1-rated alarm system complete with interior motion sensors, battery back-up siren and deadlocks.

The list continues with automatic headlights that respond to low light conditions, puddle lights that come on when unlocking the vehicle, Follow-Me-Home safe lights which remain on for a minute after you’ve switched off the engine, and hazard lights that come on to warn the drivers behind of emergency braking action.

When reversing, Ranger’s innovative Rear View Camera System displays the rear view video image in a section of the rear view mirror, along with overlaid marker lines to indicate the width of the vehicle and distance to the closest object. Additionally the system also shows the rear tow ball, making hitching up a trailer much easier. Based on the ultrasonic reverse parking sensors, the radio will beep at a rate proportional to the distance between Ranger and the object. The in-car screen will also display an image of the pick-up with sensor ranges marked behind it. When an object is detected, the display places a solid bar behind the vehicle image to indicate approximate location of the object.

Inside, the new instrument cluster design offers an outstanding array of information. Other than the vehicle system gauges, a central LCD display provides trip computer functions with information such as distance to empty, average fuel consumption, instantaneous fuel consumption, average speed and outside air temperature.

“Customers who are used to these convenience features from their passenger cars will be delighted to find the same – if not higher – level of comfort in Ranger,” said Papadomanolakis.

Creating space all around

From boasting the segment's biggest front seat head room to leading the pack for rear leg room and knee clearance in the Double Cab, the global Ranger pick-up gives customers maximum interior space without compromising the substantial cargo box volume.

Engineers put a lot of effort into keeping the vehicle short, but occupant space large, by fully utilising Ranger’s dimensions. To achieve its best-in-class front head room of 1,022mm, they squeezed the clearance between the headliner and the sheet metal to the absolute minimum.

Reflecting the anticipated dual usage of the pick-up, engineers also paid special attention to its rear seats. While the second row in the Super Cab is more spacious than key competitors, it’s the rear seats in the Double Cab that truly impress.

Shifting away from the one-door-fits-all approach, Ranger now has a two-door strategy. The Regular Cab and Super Cab share one long front door, while the Double Cab has a separate shorter front door.

With the B-pillar moved forward, the Double Cab delivers best-in-class rear leg room of 902mm and knee clearance of 39mm. This equates to three adults easily fitting into the second row, while two six-footers can comfortably sit one behind the other. The rear ingress and egress are also among the best in the segment.

Another benefit that resulted from moving the B-pillar is that the rear glass is now bigger, which not only helps driver vision, but also gives second-row occupants a much more spacious feeling, due to the greater amount of light that comes in.

The perception of roominess is further enhanced by the B-pillar being further away from the eye. To open up the interior even more, engineers paid close attention to the detail, optimising the pillar size and trim and the blackout on the glass, squeezing them as small as possible.

Ranger is not only spacious, but also has seat back angles that are among the leaders. Some competitors make the rear seats very upright to improve leg and knee room, but with the result that second-row occupants could end up confined by the available knee room.

“We wanted the Ranger to be better than an ordinary pick-up. We wanted it to have the comfort levels of an SUV so we looked at the hip angle, back angle and torso angle to make sure we’ve got it right,” said Stanley.

“Add in smart technology and creature comforts previously seen only in premium passenger cars, and the all-new Ranger is a no-compromise choice for those looking for an all-in-one work and family vehicle.”

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Powerful New Engines Deliver More Torque And Performance For All-New Ford Ranger

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 18:53:42 +0000

Powerful new powertrains are at the heart of the all-new Ford Ranger, giving it more than enough muscle and backbone to get the job done, while delivering maximum fuel economy.

2.2 litre Duratorq TDCi four-cylinder diesel engine with peak torque output of 375Nm and power output of 150PS
3.2 litre Duratorq TDCi five-cylinder diesel engine with a stump-pulling torque of 470Nm and power rated at 200PS

The Ford Ranger is available in either two- or four-wheel drive versions with six-speed transmissions in both manual and automatic from. All the engines have also been calibrated to meet the most stringent emission standards worldwide, including Euro Stage V.

Available for the first time will be the six-speed manual, and, in selected Ranger diesel models, a six-speed automatic transmission to provide reduced engine rpm and extended operational range on long highway trips or in city traffic.

“The most basic requirement a customer wants from a pickup is torque and power,” said David Mitchell, powertrain development manager, Ford Asia Pacific and Africa. “Ranger not only delivers all that and more but is also able to do it in a way that sips less fuel.”

Impressive Duratorq TDCi diesels
Numerous refinements have also been achieved with the new diesel engines, including the implementation of the latest in fuel delivery technology, with a new high-pressure fuel system carefully tailored and calibrated for combustion efficiency. It delivers exceptional fuel economy ratings without affecting power levels. The precise injection timing and calibration also ensures a smooth combustion process to avoid a hard diesel combustion crackle, resulting in lower noise emissions more like a petrol engine.

Leading the way is Ranger’s new 3.2 litre five-cylinder diesel engine. With a flat torque plateau – higher levels of torque over a broad rpm – Ranger is able to pull full loads on the highway easily without having to change gear. Ninety percent of its peak 470Nm torque is available from 1,700 to 3,500rpm, providing better engine flexibility.

This remarkable amount of torque was put to the test in a Ford experiment where a 4x4 Ranger equipped with this engine effortlessly towed a 160-tonne steam locomotive out of its shed in Australia. And the good news is that all this torque does not have to come at a high price. The fuel consumption of the 3.2 litre engine in a combined cycle ranges from 28.3mpg on a 4x4 with manual transmission to 26.7mpg on a full-option 4x4 model with automatic transmission*.

For those who prefer an engine with a smaller displacement, there is a 2.0 litre four-cylinder diesel engine with 150PS that can be mated to either the six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. An additional 125PS entry level version of this engine with manual transmission will be available in early 2012.

The 150PS engine delivers peak torque output of 375Nm and power output of 150PS by utilising variable geometry turbochargers that allow more accurate control of boost pressure over a wider operating range. This enables lower-end torque capability for improved launch and driveability while deliver the engine fuel efficient. When fitted to a 4x2 model, the 2.2 litre engine consumes 34.0mpg km in a combined cycle*.

New six-speed transmissions for Ranger
The all-new Ranger features new automatic and manual six-speed transmissions for increased responsiveness and fuel efficiency.

The automatic gearbox provides drivers with various modes as well as manual control through sequential manual shifting. In Normal mode, the calibration focuses on comfort and fuel economy. For sportier driving, a quick flick of the gearshift changes the transmission into Performance mode. This provides later shift points and the driver can also manually select gears through a forward (downshift) or rearward (upshift) movement.

Another innovation is the automatic transmission’s ability to recognise when the vehicle is on a gradient. Using Grade Control Logic, the transmission will automatically downshift during downhill driving to provide additional braking from the powertrain when it senses the driver is applying the brakes.

Moreover, the transmission also has the ability to adapt to the driver’s style through Driver Recognition software. By determining the current driving style, including acceleration and deceleration rates, brake and throttle applications and cornering speeds, the transmission ensures the vehicle is in the right gear at the right time without undesired gear shifts.

“The aim of the software is to match the customer’s expectation of the gearing with his or her driving style,” said Tim Postgate, transmission calibration supervisor, Ford Asia Pacific and Africa. “A relaxed driving style will deliver significant benefits in terms of refinement and fuel economy, while enthusiastic drivers will be rewarded with sharper responses and a more defined sporty feel.”

For those who prefer greater involvement, the six-speed manual transmission provides crisp, precise shifting with its short, car-like gear shifter positioned ergonomically for the driver.

All manual transmissions have an upshift indicator in the instrument panel to help coach drivers on the best gearing for fuel economy.

New Ranger shapes up
Using the same cutting-edge simulation technology employed by Formula One teams, Ford's aerodynamicists performed more than 1,000 full-vehicle aerodynamic simulations to perfect the shape of the vehicle for fuel economy. They demonstrated with the simulation that with a hard line at the fender top, wind flow was divided and resistance lowered.

Working with the designers, the aerodynamics team managed to pare Ranger’s drag coefficient down to a very competitive ratio of 0.40 by implementing the most efficient design. They optimised the A-pillars, tapered the C-pillars and added a small spoiler to the top of the tailgate.

The biggest drag reduction came from a front air dam, which limits the amount of flow that goes under the vehicle and sends more air over and around the vehicle body. This chin spoiler effectively cuts the drag by about seven per cent while improving vehicle stability and helping to cool the engine.

“With about 60 per cent of the power required to cruise at highway speeds being used to overcome aerodynamic effects, minimising drag has real-world fuel economy benefits for the customer,” said Dr Neil Lewington, Ford senior aerodynamicist.

To make Ranger more efficient than ever, the engineers insisted on tyres offering the lowest rolling resistance, but without compromising grip, ride and handling. They also went through numerous permutations of matching gears to engine to deliver optimal fuel economy while ensuring optimal performance for the pickup’s leading towing capability and payload capacity.

The engineers also put in a first-in-Ranger Battery Monitoring System that optimises the alternator charging during deceleration and monitors the state of charge of the battery. The system’s regenerative charging functionality – converting the kinetic energy of the vehicle into ‘free’ electric current that is used to recharge the battery – contributes to real-world fuel economy.

“Powerful engines are at the heart of any pickup’s capability,” said Mitchell. “We’ve equipped Ranger with a range of capable powertrains that customers will appreciate – loads of power, heaps of torque, increased fuel economy, and reduced emissions. Sometimes it is possible to get the best of all worlds!”

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New Ford Ranger Makes History As First Pick-Up To Earn Five Euro NCAP Stars

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 18:51:14 +0000

The all-new Ford Ranger has made motoring history by becoming the first ever pick-up to achieve a maximum 5 Star rating under the Euro NCAP crash test protocol.

Ranger scored 89 per cent for overall safety – the best score ever earned by a pick-up and one of the highest scores recorded by Euro NCAP for any type of vehicle. Moreover, the new Ranger achieved the highest rating of any vehicle ever tested by Euro NCAP for pedestrian protection (81 per cent).

“Vehicle safety is a core value at Ford Motor Company and these independent test results confirm that not only is Ranger the highest rated vehicle in its class, it is also one of the highest rated vehicles ever assessed by Euro NCAP,” said Stephen Odell, chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe. “No one wants to be involved in an accident but if the worst were to happen, the new Ranger is proven to provide outstanding protection to occupants of all ages as well as pedestrians."

Established in 1997 and backed by several governments, motoring, consumer and insurance organisations, Euro NCAP is the largest and most respected independent authority on crash testing in Europe.

Its assessors described Ranger’s test results as “remarkable,” with "impressive" scores in all areas.

Michiel van Ratingen, Euro NCAP secretary general, said: "With such good pedestrian protection, the Ford Ranger is undoubtedly raising the bar of safety in the category of pick-up trucks, which had until now not proven to be the safest."

Advanced safety protection
Ranger’s advanced safety protection begins with a reinforced passenger cell that utilises high-strength steel throughout. Utilising multiple load paths in the front, side, and rear of the vehicle, crash forces are directed away from occupants, providing high levels of protection in the event of a collision. This structure, along with the all-new ladder frame, was optimised to manage the crash energy in a variety of impacts and provide protection for all passengers.

Using sophisticated computer modelling, engineers assessed more than 9,000 virtual crash tests before any of the 110 actual vehicle crash tests or 410 system sled tests were undertaken. These virtual simulations allowed the engineers to optimise the vehicle structure and safety systems to provide the maximum levels of protection possible in a wide-range of real-world collisions. All this was achieved before any real prototype vehicle was built and subjected to crash testing.

“On the all new Ranger we did more crash simulations than any of our prior programs to ensure all parts of the vehicle’s safety performance were optimised,” said Adam Frost, Ford chief engineer, Digital Innovation, Ford Asia Pacific and Africa. “This was backed up by a comprehensive physical crash test program. The end result is a world class outcome we are all very proud of.”

Side curtain airbags, standard on all Ranger cab styles in Europe for the first time, deploy from the headliner to provide a protective cushion for the head of occupants in case of a side impact. The curtain is designed to protect both rows of occupants in Double Cab and Super Cab models by covering the upper side structure and glass from the A-pillar to the rear of the passenger compartment.

New side airbags also deploy from the side bolster of the front seats to protect the thorax from side-impact forces, working in tandem with the front airbags for the driver and front passenger. A driver’s knee airbag is also standard across all models.

Other safety technologies include three-point safety belts for all seating positions, with pre-tensioners and load limiter for the front seats, as well as Ford BeltMinder technology which helps remind front-seat occupants to wear their belts.

Enhanced pedestrian safety
On top of the occupant safety technologies, the all-new Ranger has been engineered with the latest pedestrian protection features.

Technologies that emerged from a global Ford research project on pedestrian-friendly vehicle designs have now been applied to a pick-up for the first time. This includes a “hexageneous” under-bonnet structure to reduce the potential for pedestrian head injuries, and a pedestrian-friendly front bumper design incorporating energy-absorbing materials.

Innovative active safety and driver assistance technologies
The all-new Ranger also uses innovative active safety and driver assistance technologies to help drivers avoid accidents. A key standard feature is the Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) that uses advanced sensors to constantly monitor the vehicle’s behaviour and assist stability and control.

The Trailer Sway Control system monitors the behaviour of the tow vehicle and trailer array to sense the advent of trailer sway and apply braking countermeasures to reduce its effects. Adaptive Load Control provides additional stability assurance for drivers dealing with heavy payloads.

When driving downhill, Hill Descent Control ensures that the brakes will be applied to control the vehicle at a set speed. Or when stopping on a steep grade, Hill Launch Assist helps the driver to pull away confidently without creeping backwards, even when fully laden.

The Ranger's ESP system includes off-road logic which recognises when the pick-up is driven on rough roads and modifies the system to ensure the best balance between stability and timeliness of interventions.

All-new Ford Ranger is the first-ever pick-up to receive the maximum 5 Star Euro NCAP rating
The Ranger achieved one of the best overall scores ever awarded by Euro NCAP – its 5 Star rating reflects a strong performance in adult, child and pedestrian protection

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