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The New 2011 Mustang

MSN writes it's review of the new 2011 Ford Mustang!



It is time to Pony Up!
Thought you might be interested in this:

http://editorial.autos.msn.com/article.aspx?cp-documentid=1154434&icid=autos_0628&GT1=22008
Thoroughbred Ford is Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer! Why buy a car when you can own a Thoroughbred!

Posted on 28 July 2010 | 6:21 am
 

2011 Ford Explorer Revealed



The 2011 Ford Explorer has just been revealed, and there are some big expectations -- and big hype -- driving the announcement.
The new Explorer has been completely redesigned. The most obvious difference: It's built on a car platform, not a truck one, so it sits lower to the ground and has a smoother, more fuel-efficient ride. Available in dealerships this winter.

CLICK HERE to view a slideshow of the 2011 Ford Explorer Reveal.
Thoroughbred Ford is Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer! Why buy a car when you can own a Thoroughbred!

Posted on 27 July 2010 | 6:34 pm
 

Thoroughbred Ford -Free Concert Tickets!



Saturday July 10

Rock N’ Roll Dream Concert
Tribute bands Houses Of The Holy (Led Zeppelin), Edge of Forever (Lynyrd Skynyrd), 7 Bridges Road (The Eagles) and Silver Bullet (Bob Seger) will be performing at this year's Rock N' Roll Dream Concert.

6pm Doors, 7pm Show All Ages

Free tickets available for this concert at Thoroughbred Ford! All you have to do is come to our front desk and ask for them. We will run out quick, so get them before they run out!!

Thoroughbred Ford is Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer! Why buy a car when you can own a Thoroughbred!

Posted on 5 July 2010 | 12:19 pm
 

Two of a Kind?

Two Pre-Owned GT500's

thoroughbredford@Flickr

We currently have two beautiful Pre-owned GT500's.  If you ever wanted a GT500 now is the time!

2008 Ford Shelby Mustang GT500
  • Year: 2008
  • Make: Ford
  • Model: Mustang
  • Trim: Shelby GT500
  • Body style: 2 Dr Coupe
  • Mileage: 2131
  • Engine: 8 Cyl. 5.4
  • Trans: 6 Speed Manual
  • Exterior Color: White
  • Interior Color: Black
  • Stock: 59086A
  • VIN: 1ZVHT88S485197314
thoroughbredford@flickr

Also we have

2009 Ford Shelby Mustang GT500

  • Year: 2009
  • Make: Ford
  • Model: Mustang
  • Trim: Shelby GT500
  • Body style: 2 Dr Coupe
  • Mileage: 13754
  • Engine: 8 Cyl. 5.4
  • Trans: 6 Speed Manual
  • Exterior Color: Vapor
  • Interior Color: Gray
  • Stock: 03694A
  • VIN: 1ZVHT88S095136964
thoroughbredford@flickr

More information available at our website
 or email us
Thoroughbred Ford is Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer! Why buy a car when you can own a Thoroughbred!

Posted on 23 May 2010 | 5:30 am
 

Heartland Park and Ford

What a great experience Heartland Park is!!



Yesterday was the first time that I had the privilege of visiting Heartland Park in Topeka, KS.  I have visited Topeka with my family and we have always had fun when we were in town.  I have not been an NHRA fan, though primarily because I have never sat through a race before.  I am now a fan.



Ford invited us down to the track for a presentation on upcoming products, the Fiesta, the new Focus, the new Explorer, new engines in the F-150's.  It is an exciting time for Ford.  We watched some of the talks from the big Dealer meetings in Detroit a few weeks back.  For a bunch of Salesman and Managers it was a pretty neat.  We got lots of free stuff and watched the best presentation I have seen in 15 years, thanks Mike Durkin.


Then we got to meet some of the drivers Bob Tasca was first.  Bob is a Ford dealer but I was still impressed when he came out to watch the videos with us.  What a great advocate for Ford he is, this guy bleeds Blue.  Also, while we were watching the videos a family spotted him, I could hear the dad say to his kids look there is Mr. Tasca.  Bob looked up saw them as they were starting to walk away, jumped up and ran over to the family, to sign the kids hats and shirts.  In an age of too many celebrities being selfish and uptight it was refreshing and a huge character statement.


After this we got to go meet the Force team. We met John Force who is as affable a guy as you would ever want to meet.  He is a show stealer, telling stories, listening to our stories and really paying attention.  With one exception, when his daughter started her car he shot around the corner to listen to it run, and then quickly came back.
 We also got to meet Robert Hight who was winning when we left on Friday.
And of Course Ashley Force!
 Oh we also got to watch the races.  What a great time.

Thanks to: Ford, Heartland Park, City of Topeka, John Force, Ashley Force, Robert Hight, Bob Tasca, John Force Racing, Ford Racing, NHRA, Mike Durkin and of course my favorite the unflappable Stacy Allen!! Thanks
see more picks at Flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/thoroughbredford

Thoroughbred Ford is Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer! Why buy a car when you can own a Thoroughbred!

Posted on 22 May 2010 | 3:44 pm
 

TOW, TOW, TOW YOUR BOAT MORE EASILY DOWN THE ROAD WITH 2011 FORD SUPER DUTY’S TECHNOLOGIES


DEARBORN, Mich., May 17, 2010 – Whether heading to a demanding job site or a relaxing day at the lake, 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty customers can take advantage of segment-first technologies and conveniences to tow like a pro.
With vacation season approaching, more Super Duty customers will start towing boats, horse trailers and campers, all of which are among the top items towed by F-250 and F-350 customers. The ability to tow a camper, fifth-wheel, RV or bigger camper also rates highest among both conventional and fifth-wheel towers in terms of reasons for wanting maximum towing capacity.
The 2011 Super Duty delivers not only with best-in-class capability, but also with more confidence-enhancing towing features, helping Super Duty customers tow a wide variety of loads – for work or for fun – with greater peace of mind.
“The 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty has class-leading capability, but the key is putting it to work in a way that is easy and seamless for the customer,” said Doug Scott, Truck Group marketing manager. “About 95 percent of our Super Duty customers tow. The wide array of standard and available technology in the 2011 Super Duty can help customers tow with more confidence.”
Nearly 72 percent of Super Duty customers consider towing capability as “extremely important.” The ability of the 2011 Ford Super Duty to tow maximum loads for work and recreation allows customers to work the truck hard during the week and on the weekend.
“The towing customer is the Super Duty customer,” said Scott. “That’s why it’s so important to provide the 2011 Super Duty customer not only the most capability, but also the right technology to tow more confidently.”
Trailer Sway Control added for 2011Leading these new technologies is Trailer Sway Control, which uses Ford’s AdvanceTrac® with RSC (Roll Stability Control™) to provide an additional level of confidence and control while towing. Ford’s system – standard on all single-rear wheel models and dual-rear wheel pickups – uses sensors to measure wheel speed, throttle position, steering wheel angle, yaw rate and lateral acceleration as well as an exclusive gyroscopic roll-rate sensor.
The roll-rate sensor is key to the Ford system. Unlike competitors’ systems, TSC uses real-time input instead of calculations to take countermeasures.
When the system detects the trailer yawing in one direction, it applies selective brake pressure on the tow vehicle’s opposite side – called asymmetric braking. This helps reduce the sway. TSC also can reduce engine power as part of the trailer-sway mitigation strategy. TSC:
Is designed to work even when trailers have no braking systems
Requires no hardware to be added or adapted to the trailer
Works with multiple trailer brake configurations
Can assist when trailer sway occurs due to operation in gusty wind conditions or emergency evasive maneuvers
For further peace of mind, an available integrated trailer brake controller, factory-installed and covered by Ford’s factory warranty, offers smooth and safe operation due to its ability to interface with multiple vehicle systems.
Normal braking is proportional to driver brake pressure for smooth stops at all speeds. If the vehicle’s Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) is engaged, the special trailer brake algorithm kicks in to minimize the potential for trailer wheel lockup. When towing trailers with electric brakes, Super Duty trucks equipped with the trailer brake controller can apply the brakes during a sway event to help stabilize it.
The 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty also is the first full-size pickup truck to offer a factory-installed trailer brake controller that is compatible with most aftermarket electric-over-hydraulic trailer brake systems. Electric-over-hydraulic trailer brake systems use an electric signal to actuate the hydraulic or “surge” brakes in the trailer. These systems are gaining in popularity among boat trailer manufacturers because they can be operated in a wet environment.
New engine and transmission deliver class-leading capability with controlThe all-new Ford-designed, engineered and built 6.7-liter V-8 turbocharged diesel engine for the 2011 F-Series Super Duty not only has best-in-class horsepower, torque and fuel economy, it’s also an enabler to the increased control towing customers will experience. The new 6.7-liter Power Stroke® V-8 turbocharged diesel engine’s integrated exhaust brake increases engine exhaust back pressure when needed to help slow the vehicle and trailer while in tow/haul mode.
There’s no button to push; the diesel powertrain calibration automatically increases the engine exhaust back pressure when needed, making it seamless to the customer.
The all-new 6R140 heavy-duty TorqShift® six-speed automatic transmission has SelectShift capability and several enhanced customer-driven features, like Progressive Range Select, Manual Mode and tow/haul mode, that are useful when towing.
Progressive Range Select allows a customer, through a toggle on the shift lever, to reduce the range of gears while in Drive. When the customer “taps” down into Range Select mode by pressing the toggle switch on the shift lever, the display shows the gears available for the transmission to shift to, and also continuously updates the current transmission gear.
Customers also can switch to Manual Mode and use the same shift toggle to select the gear desired. The torque converter aggressively locks up while in this manual mode and holds the gear to provide manual transmission-like control, yet is smart enough to downshift if the driver comes to a stop and forgets to downshift.
The enhanced tow/haul mode provides better control when hauling a heavy trailer load, especially when going down grades. The improved system uses an array of sophisticated electronic sensors that better predict the driver’s need for a downshift to provide engine braking and enhanced control. Manual Mode delivers greater control when low gears are needed, like pulling a trailer out of a boat ramp.
Another significant control strategy is Hill Start Assist, which is a sensor-based system that will hold the brakes for up to 2.5 seconds to prevent rollback when stopping or starting from rest on an incline. The system employs a digital accelerometer to measure slope incline and activates automatically when the incline exceeds 3 percent.
New productivity screen can aid towing novicesHelping customers of the 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty take full advantage of this leading capability is the class-exclusive available 4.2-inch LCD productivity screen. The menu is navigated through a five-way button on the steering wheel. Of particular use to towing customers are screens that allow trailer tow customers to:
Name and delete trailers; log mileage for guess-free maintenance intervals. It also tracks mileage and remembers the gain settings for multiple trailers
Access information on features such as Trailer Brake Controller (TBC), tow/haul mode and electric-over-hydraulic brakes
Select the type of trailer connection and view a checklist of conventional, fifth-wheel and gooseneck options
Three distinct checklists can be accessed, and include the following prompts:
Ball coupler connected and locked?
Tongue jack raised?
Mirrors adjusted?
Electrical wiring connected?
Lights functioning correctly (running lights, left/right turn and brake lights)?
TBC gain setting adjusted?
Wheel chocks removed?
Safety chains connected?
More ready-to-tow conveniences added; more towing options from inside the bedThe 2011 F-Series Super Duty also offers customers more ready-to-tow options from within the cargo box with an available factory-installed class-exclusive fifth-wheel/gooseneck hitch prep package. This package is warranted by Ford and includes an integrated, patent-pending under-bed frame-mounted crossmember for added strength. It is compatible with either type of hitch accessory kit through Ford Custom Accessories. It’s available for $370 MSRP, significantly less than many aftermarket installations.
Five laser-cut holes in the pickup box provide access to the fifth-wheel and gooseneck hitch attachment points. The attachment points are finished with trim bezels and closeout covers to maintain a flat cargo bed. A seven-pin connector is integrated to the pickup bed inner wall on the driver’s side to allow for a clean installation.
Additional driver aids and conveniencesConventional trailer hookups are made easier with the rearview camera option. After shifting into reverse, a full-color image from the tailgate-mounted camera is displayed in the rearview mirror or on the available navigation system’s 6.5-inch screen.
Also available are class-exclusive PowerScope™ trailer tow mirrors that adjust, fold and telescope almost 3 inches at the touch of a switch; this option includes integrated clearance lights and turn signals, plus heated glass with manually adjustable spotter mirrors.
“The 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty delivers class-leading towing capability that the customer can manage seamlessly and confidently, which is a combination our competitors can’t match,” said Scott
Thoroughbred Ford is Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer! Why buy a car when you can own a Thoroughbred!

Posted on 19 May 2010 | 2:08 pm
 

ALL-NEW FORD FIESTA DELIVERS 40 MPG; TOPS CLASS IN FUEL ECONOMY



Ford Fiesta with the six-speed PowerShift automatic transmission has been EPA certified for 40 mpg highway and 29 mpg city delivering class-leading fuel economy
Fiesta features several fuel-saving technologies including its PowerShift automatic transmission, Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing, Electric Power Assist Steering, aggressive deceleration fuel shutoff and enhanced aerodynamics
Fiesta joins Fusion Hybrid – America’s most fuel efficient midsize sedan – and other class leaders like Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner Hybrids, Ford Ranger, Mustang V-6 and Super Duty offering best-in-class fuel economy

DEARBORN, Mich., May 17, 2010 – Ford’s all-new 2011 Fiesta – an Internet star even before it goes on sale this summer – will now stand out on the highway with an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certified 40 mpg rating, making it the most fuel efficient car in its class.

The Ford Fiesta 40 mpg, achieved with Ford’s new six-speed PowerShift automatic transmission, is 5 mpg better than the Honda Fit and 4 mpg better than the Toyota Yaris.

“The new Fiesta is yet another car in Ford’s lineup that delivers class-leading fuel economy,” said Barb Samardzich, vice president, Global Powertrain Engineering. “From Super Duty to Fusion Hybrid and the new Mustang V-6, Ford is committed to fuel economy leadership with every new vehicle it introduces in all segments.”

Fiesta’s class-leading fuel efficiency follows Fusion Hybrid – America’s most fuel efficient midsize sedan – and other fuel economy champs such as the Ford Escape Hybrid, Mercury Mariner Hybrid and Ford Ranger pickup. For 2011, the streak continues with the Mustang V-6, Ford Super Duty and now the responsive, sporty and economical Fiesta. Moving forward, Ford is committed to being a fuel economy leader in each segment in which it competes.

The Fiesta achieves its best-in-segment fuel figures thanks to a host of fuel-saving technologies not normally seen at this price level. To increase fuel economy, Fiesta features a new 1.6-liter Duratec® engine with Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) that delivers 120 horsepower, an aggressive deceleration fuel shutoff and an engine accessory drive system that improves efficiency by reducing the energy it takes to power the air conditioner and alternator.

In addition, the Fiesta also features the PowerShift transmission, a six-speed automatic that combines the fuel benefits of a manual with the convenience of an automatic. Combine that with electric power-assisted steering, another fuel saver and some aerodynamic optimizations and you have a car that can go a long way on a single tank of fuel.

“We worked hard to deliver the class-leading fuel economy Ford is becoming synonymous for,” said Steve Pintar, Fiesta chief nameplate engineer. “To be the only vehicle in the segment to deliver 40 mpg is something we feel consumers will appreciate.”

The 2011 Fiesta with standard five-speed manual transmission is EPA rated at 28 mpg city and 37 mpg highway.

These efficiency innovations combine with the stylish and aerodynamically clean Fiesta body design to efficiently slip through the wind with both fuel savings and reduced wind noise.

Fiesta is built for North American markets at Ford’s manufacturing facility in Cuautitlan, Mexico. The vehicle goes on sale in four-door sedan and five-door hatchback body styles – with the sedan starting at $13,995, including destination charges – at Ford dealerships this summer.
Thoroughbred Ford is Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer! Why buy a car when you can own a Thoroughbred!

Posted on 19 May 2010 | 9:26 am
 

Ford Makes Selecting the Correct Four-wheel-drive Mode Easy


When the all-new Ford Explorer sport utility vehicle goes in to production later this year, it will offer an advanced terrain management system that takes the mystery out of four-wheel drive. They system will optimizing powertrain behavior for specific situations and road conditions and make it easy for the driver to choose the correct setting for the terrain.
Ford Explorer with intelligent 4WD and terrain management eliminates guesswork, using simple icons to help drivers choose the correct setting at the simple turn of a dial for the climate or surface situation they may be driving. The icons depict the various settings to best suit driving conditions.
Todd Hoevener is the vehicle dynamics manager for the new Explorer. In this short video, he gives an overview of the terrain management system.

“One of our goals with the new Explorer is to deliver four-wheel-drive capability with easier and intuitively operated control,” said Jim Holland, Explorer Chief Engineer. “The selectable settings are contingent upon weather and conditions, so the system is easily operated and understood. Ford terrain management makes it easier for SUV veterans, while making confidence-building Explorer capability even more accessible to segment newcomers.”
Employment of intelligent 4WD with Ford terrain management allowed Explorer engineers to deliver the “any road, anytime” capabilities that SUV buyers expect, while eliminating weight.
Less driveline mass will help the new Explorer with V-6 power deliver an estimated 25 percent better fuel economy than the 2010 model.
Intelligent 4WD with terrain management works by optimizing Explorer powertrain and braking systems to best suit a variety of situations, allowing vehicle behavior characteristics to provide appropriate traction and driver control. Ford anticipates that the system will really be a stress-reducer and confidence-builder, especially when driving in adverse conditions.
Thoroughbred Ford is Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer! Why buy a car when you can own a Thoroughbred!

Posted on 12 May 2010 | 5:00 am
 

Ford Customer's Benefit, from Higher Resale Values, Fewer Warranty Repairs



Ford's dramatic gains in quality are contributing to a 23 percent year-over-year improvement in resale value of Ford vehicles with one to five years on the road – outpacing the industry average by 4 percentage points
On average, the redesigned 2010 Ford Taurus is selling 50 percent higher at auction than the 2009 Taurus after one year in service
Ford has reduced its warranty repair rates on vehicles in their first three months of service by an average of more than 40 percent in each major business region around the world in the past three years
Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles' initial quality in the U.S. has improved for five straight years. Ford vehicles now have the fewest number of defects of any full-line manufacturer
The resale value of newer Ford Motor Company vehicles rose 23 percent in the past year alone, the result of stronger demand for Ford's new vehicle lineup and improved quality and durability ratings.
At the same time, warranty repair rates on Ford vehicles have declined by an average of more than 40 percent globally in the past three years.
Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles with one to five years on the road are fetching significantly higher resale values at auction in the first quarter of this year compared to the first quarter a year ago. Overall, the resale value of Ford's three brands at auction rose 23 percent from a year ago to outpace the industry, which saw resale values increase by 19 percent, according to the latest North American Dealers Association auction data.
"Wholesale price performance was extremely strong throughout 2009, and during this period Ford, Lincoln and Mercury products matched or exceeded the performance of the overall market," said Tom Webb, chief economist, Manheim Consulting, the world's largest provider of automotive remarketing services. "And, in 2010, Ford products have outperformed the overall market, especially in the increasingly important segments of compact cars, midsize cars and crossover vehicles."
For example, on average, the redesigned 2010 Ford Taurus is selling 50 percent higher at auction than the 2009 Taurus after one year in service. Similarly, the 2010 Ford Fusion V-6 commanded 26 percent more at auction than the 2009 model after one year in service.
"Wholesale used vehicle prices have generally been firming over the last year and a half; however, the price performance of Ford products has generally exceeded that of the market as a whole," said Tom Kontos, executive vice president, Customer Strategies and Analytics, ADESA Analytical Services, which is a used vehicle auction network.
Rising resale values means more money in customers' pockets when it is time to sell or trade in for a new vehicle. Combine these savings with lower repair and maintenance costs and better fuel economy, and the cost to own a Ford product drops dramatically over the life of the vehicle.
Aggressive product refresheningsFueling Ford's improved resale value is the company's strong vehicle lineup that includes many new and redesigned cars and trucks. Ford gained market share in the U.S. last year, while improving transaction prices.
Strong retail performance, in both transaction price and sales of a new product, serves as an early indicator of that product's future resale value. When combined with Ford's quality rankings, these factors help Ford vehicles hold their value.
"The positive reception by consumers of our recent product introductions and freshening is reflected in our higher transaction prices and increased market share," said Jim Farley, Ford's group vice president of Global Marketing.
Laser-like Focus on qualityFord performance in third-party consumer quality rankings has been steadily improving for the past several years. Years of a consistent and disciplined focus on quality is paying off, including a marked decline in warranty repair rates.
Ford has reduced its warranty repair rates on vehicles in their first three months of service by an average of more than 40 percent in every major business region around the world in the past three years.
Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles' initial quality in the U.S. has improved for five straight years. Ford vehicles now have the fewest number of defects of any full-line manufacturer, according to the GQRS study conducted by RDA Group.
For Ford customers, this means fewer trips to the dealership for repairs. This also means savings for Ford as the company has reduced its warranty repair costs by $1 billion in the past three years.
"We are operating with a truly dedicated discipline to quality," said Bennie Fowler, Ford group vice president, Global Quality. "The results are paying off for our customers with fewer trips to the dealership and a higher satisfaction with the Ford, Lincoln or Mercury product they purchase."
As Ford's newest vehicles hit the road, company officials expect resale values to continue to improve and warranty claims to continue to decline.
Ford's commitment to world-class quality and a positive ownership experience extends beyond just preventing things that go wrong. Customer-driven product features, such as fuel economy, craftsmanship, quiet interiors and high-tech in-car communications systems are designed into the vehicle to deliver an exceptional product at an affordable price.
"The difference in Ford's products today is significant," says Farley. "We're proud of the progress we've made. It feels good to be able to deliver great-looking vehicles and industry-leading quality at an affordable price in every sense of the word."
Thoroughbred Ford is Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer! Why buy a car when you can own a Thoroughbred!

Posted on 5 May 2010 | 5:00 am
 

Ford's April Sales up 25%

FORD’S U.S. APRIL SALES UP 25 PERCENT; FIFTH STRAIGHT MONTH FORD SALES HAVE INCREASED MORE THAN 20 PERCENT

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

Download Soundbites
DEARBORN, Mich., May 3, 2010 – Ford continued to post strong sales and market share gains in April, with Ford, Lincoln and Mercury dealers delivering 162,996 new vehicles in April – a 25 percent increase versus a year ago. It marks the fifth month in a row Ford sales have increased more than 20 percent. Year-to-date sales totaled 591,592, up 34 percent.   
In April, Ford retail sales were up 32 percent versus a year ago, and Ford gained retail market share for the 18th time in the last 19 months. Fleet sales were up 13 percent. Ford is benefiting from a fresh lineup of new, high-quality, fuel-efficient vehicles delivering industry-leading levels of safety and smart design.

“Customers are benefitting from our strong new product lineup,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing Sales and Service. “Our laser focus on quality and dependability is increasing Ford resale values at a higher rate than the overall industry, bringing real value to Ford customers at trade-in time and driving industry-leading customer satisfaction and higher market share.”
On average, resale values of Ford vehicles have increased 23 percent versus last year, outpacing the industry average by 4 percentage points, according to the latest North American Dealers Association auction data. Ford vehicles now have the fewest number of defects of any full-line manufacturer and the highest customer satisfaction with vehicle quality among all major automakers, according to a first quarter study by RDA Group of Bloomfield Hills, Mich.
Once again, sales were higher throughout Ford’s lineup in April – continuing a trend that began in December. Cars were up 10 percent versus a year ago, utilities were up 33 percent, and trucks were up 38 percent. Among brands, Ford sales were up 26 percent, Lincoln sales were up 22 percent and Mercury sales were up 19 percent.
Additional Sales Highlights
  • Ford Fusion, Motor Trend’s Car of the Year, set an April sales record of 18,971, up 4 percent versus the previous record set last year. Fusion has set monthly sales records in 12 of the last 13 months, and sales have been up 13 months in a row. Mercury Milan sales were up 36 percent, its sixth consecutive monthly sales increase.
  • Ford Taurus sales totaled 6,166 in April, almost double year-ago levels (up 99 percent). Ford Focus sales were up 21 percent.
  • With sales of 40,946, Ford’s F-Series posted a 42 percent sales increase in April. Ford’s leadership position in the truck market is strengthened by the arrival of the 2011 model F-Series Super Duty – the most capable, fuel-efficient heavy-duty pickup in the industry. In April, sales of the all-new 2011 Super Duty were more than double Ford’s plan for the month. F-Series has been America’s best-selling truck for 33 years in a row and best-selling vehicle (car or truck) for 28 years in a row. F-Series sales have increased five months in a row, and April’s increase was the largest.
  • Utility vehicles also posted strong sales increases. Ford Escape set an April sales record of 19,146, up 41 percent. Ford Edge sales were up 18 percent (its seventh straight monthly increase), Ford Flex sales were a record for April and up 22 percent, and Mercury Mariner sales were up 24 percent (its fourth monthly increase in a row). Sales for traditional SUVs (Ford Explorer, Mercury Mountaineer, Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator) also were higher than a year ago.
  • Sales for Ford’s E-Series van (Econoline/Club Wagon) were up 15 percent versus a year ago. E-Series has been America’s best-selling full-size van for 31 years.
  • Sales of the new Ford Transit Connect small commercial van totaled 2,229 in April – its highest sales month ever. ADT Security Services, the world’s largest electronic security provider, plans to place an order for 3,000 Transit Connects, representing half of its North American fleet. This move will save ADT an estimated $5.3 million annually in fuel costs while reducing carbon emissions. In a separate announcement, the city of Boston last week became the first municipality in America to approve the Transit Connect cab for taxi use. Meanwhile, the production of the battery-electric Transit Connect begins later this year.
  • The company’s hybrid vehicles (Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner) posted sales of 2,726 in April, up 19 percent versus a year ago. Year-to-date, the company’s hybrid sales totaled 9,742, up 55 percent. Ford has sold approximately 130,000 hybrid vehicles in the U.S. and is America’s largest domestic hybrid company. In addition, Ford has sold more than 10,000 vehicles equipped with its V-6 EcoBoost engine technology.
# # #
Note: The sales data included in this release and the accompanying tables are based largely on data reported by dealers representing their sales to retail and fleet customers.
About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents.  With about 176,000 employees and about 80 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and, until its sale, Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company.  For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com.
Thoroughbred Ford is Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer! Why buy a car when you can own a Thoroughbred!

Posted on 3 May 2010 | 7:01 pm
 

Manual Versus Automatic Transmissions


We noticed that more than a few of the ideas in our new Your Ideas section regarding transmission technology and the availability of various transmission types. We thought it might be helpful to share what Ford is doing right now with transmission technology and the results that customers can expect. We also posted a new poll where you can register your transmission preference.
For those asking for a dual-clutch transmission, it’s on the way. The Ford PowerShift dual-clutch automatic transmission will be available in the 2011 Ford Fiesta. This new dual-clutch automatic – the first six-speed transmission in the segment – will help the Fiesta to deliver an expected best-in-class fuel economy rating with the convenience of fully automatic shifting. The dual dry-clutch PowerShift automatic transmission is based on efficient manual transmission technology, eliminating the additional weight and complexity of a torque converter, planetary gears and the fluid pumps employed in traditional automatics. Electronically controlled, twin internal clutches shift gears quickly and smoothly, providing a seamless flow of torque with the refinement and ease customers expect from a premium automatic transmission.
The Fiesta is the second new Ford vehicle to deliver better fuel economy using an automatic transmission rather than a manual. The new six-speed automatic in the 2011 Mustang Coupe betters the highway fuel economy of the standard six-speed manual by 2 mpg. Traditionally, manual transmissions have delivered higher fuel economy. But Ford’s latest automatic transmission advancements have reversed the decades-old scenario, using advanced technology to provide customers with exceptional efficiency and the convenience of an automatic transmission. Mustang drivers who prefer a manual gearbox will enjoy the short throws and direct feel of the shifter along with the relaxed cruising permitted by the extra top gear ratio.
With an array of new automatic transmission technologies, Ford is out to challenge the status quo by delivering segment-leading fuel economy without compromise to convenience, and accessibility to a much broader segment of the driving public. Fewer drivers possess stick-shift skills, as manual transmission market acceptance continues to drop, falling 22 percent over the last decade.
“Ford’s advanced new six-speed automatic transmissions will really surprise our customers, and our competitors,” said Barb Samardzich, vice president of Powertrain Development. “They provide the convenience of traditional automatics with fuel economy leadership, as well as responsive performance and driving dynamics that make these cars fun to drive. And we’re adding six-speed transmissions to our most accessible vehicles, not just our luxury offerings and high-performance models.”
For 2011, Super Duty also features an all-new transmission. The 6R140 heavy-duty TorqShift six-speed automatic transmission was designed to manage the high levels of low-end torque produced by the new diesel engine. The same basic transmission is also mated to the new gasoline engine, giving customers of either engine the ability to efficiently get the increased torque and horsepower to the ground. In addition to hardware-based improvements, the new transmission features enhanced Tow Haul mode with integrated engine exhaust braking and SelectShift Automatic capability, which includes Progressive Range Select and a manual mode, allowing customers to select the gear to suit their needs.
Ford is committed to six-speed transmissions, with availability across 85 percent of its nameplates for 2010. By 2013, these fuel-saving, performance-enhancing six-speed transmissions will be offered in 100 percent of Ford vehicles.
Thoroughbred Ford is Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer! Why buy a car when you can own a Thoroughbred!

Posted on 30 April 2010 | 11:40 am
 

The Ford Start Concept Shows the Newest EcoBoost™ Engine


The Ford Start Concept is the first concept car created by Ford in more than three years. The car made its debut April 23, 2010, at the Beijing International Auto Show, also marking the first time Ford has unveiled an all-new concept vehicle a China show. The Start Concept is more than simply a design study. It previews a fuel-efficient three-cylinder EcoBoost™ engine with 1.0 liter of displacement and the power of a larger I-4 engine.
The Ford Start Concept was inspired in part by a growing global trend toward mass urbanization. The world’s top 20 mega-cities are home to consumers whose needs, attitudes and expectations may have more in common with mega-city dwellers in other nations than with their own countrymen. While these consumers share the challenges of living in an urban society, they also increasingly seek out product solutions that bring the best the world has to offer.
Today, more than 50 percent of the world’s population lives in an urban area. By 2050, that number is expected to skyrocket to more than 70 percent. Already, congested highways, space for parking, concerns over fuel efficiency as well as the availability and price of fuel are driving automakers to look at vehicles and personal transportation more differently than ever before.
“Our ambition with the Ford Start Concept was to design a car that goes beyond the practical realities of commuting in these mega cities, to go beyond just dressing the technology. We wanted to design a car you would also love,” explained Freeman Thomas, Design Director, Ford Motor Company.
Living in a mega city poses unique challenges and inspires unique lifestyles and attitudes. Just as traffic congestion issues are common in these geographic areas, the answers to solve the issues of a new generation of future small cars for these urban markets may also be found in the Ford Start Concept.
Powertrain
Ford powertrain engineers previewed something very real and close to being reality under the hood of the Ford Start Concept car. It’s an all-new and compact addition to the advanced Ford EcoBoost engine family. Consistent with Ford’s long-range goals to provide more power though sophisticated turbocharging and spark-ignited, direct-injection fuel management systems, the 1.0-liter Ford EcoBoost engine delivers power and torque comparable to a normally-aspirated I-4 powerplant. It is expected to have CO2 emissions under the 100 gm/km threshold.
This engine is coupled with a six-speed manual transmission which permits gear spacing to deliver performance without sacrificing fuel economy. The transmission easily handles the higher torque levels of the 1.0-liter Ford EcoBoost engine and together with the sporty handling of the Ford Start Concept, delivers the fun-to-drive characteristics that are at the core of the Ford brand DNA.
Connectivity
Located at the top of the console is a port to connect to the MyFord Mobile concept technology, which provides a seamless driver interface conducive to safe driving practices with personal handheld devices.
Without a smart phone, car-related functions including heating, ventilation and air conditioning, engine diagnostics and passenger airbag on/off function can be easily viewed and adjusted while driving through either voice activation or toggle and scroll controls located on the console. A wide, six-inch screen provides visuals.
As an added feature, when the driver inserts a smart phone in the docking station when the vehicle is in motion, access is available via the MyFord Mobile Concept to phone contacts and navigation tools through voice activation, as are all messaging, direction and communication features.
If the smart phone device is docked and the vehicle is parked and powered off, both the vehicle functions and icons from the user’s device are available via the MyFord Mobile Concept. Icons are displayed on the large screen through Bluetooth transfer. Car functions and the speaker system also are controlled through voice activation.
MyFord Mobile Concept restricts certain functions, such as texting, while driving.
Design
“With the Ford Start Concept, we didn’t set out to design some sort of utilitarian concept to save the world, nor were we interested in following the competitive trend toward an overly noisy design language. What we did set out to do was design a personality driven car that exudes warmth, charm and aspiration…to design a car worth bonding with,” said J Mays, Group Vice President Design and Chief Creative Officer, Ford Motor Company.
Crisp highlights are incorporated into a smooth exterior shell constructed with lightweight composite body panels that snap-fit on an aluminum structure.
Ford’s trademark kinetic trapezoidal grill moves upward onto the rounded, sleek form, reducing the number of prominent openings from two to one and creating a face that’s both sporting and efficient. The entire exterior surface of the Ford Start Concept has been designed with flush-mounted aerodynamic features designed to cheat the wind – providing a minimal amount of drag while achieving maximum fuel efficiency.
The innovative hybrid aluminum, high-strength steel body construction features a lightweight aluminum safety cell that provides a rigid attachment structure for the glass and roof, as well as housing side curtain air bags. All exterior body panels are made from deformable, pre-colored recyclable composites.
Slim, laser-cut LED headlamps provide high-intensity light through trapezoid tubes. Two sets of running lamps, including a pair located in the headlamp design and a pair of lower running lamps, provide nighttime illumination.
Created by a global team of designers working at Ford’s Irvine (Calif.) Strategic Concepts Group Studios, this sporty, futuristic concept combines near-production Ford EcoBoost engine technology, slick aerodynamics and low weight in an environmentally friendly package with reduced greenhouse emissions, all wrapped in an exciting design.
Thoroughbred Ford is Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer! Why buy a car when you can own a Thoroughbred!

Posted on 29 April 2010 | 5:00 am
 

Maintenance Myths

- They’ve been around awhile – a snippet of advice here, an old adage there. They’re the guidelines that are supposed to help keep cars running in top condition. Problem is, most of them aren’t based in fact – or they’re just plain outdated. Ford decided to debunk a few of the most popular maintenance myths, including the following:
MYTH: Cars need oil changes every three months or 3,000 miles. False: That used to be true, but not with newer cars. Because of synthetic oils that don’t break down as quickly, consumers actually don’t need oil changes as often – more like every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. (There may be two recommendations for oil-change intervals: one for normal driving and one for hard use. Check your maintenance guide to be sure.)
SAVE: Either way, there’s a considerable savings here: Let’s say you’re an average consumer who drives 12,000 miles a year, which means you would need about four oil changes a year under the old formula. With the new extended mileage, consumers need only about two oil changes a year, cutting their bill for oil changes in half – you could pocket upward of $50 a year or $650 in the lifetime of your car and do something to help the environment by saving oil.
MYTH: You need to let your vehicle engine warm up in cold weather. False: Your vehicle’s engine only needs a warm-up period of about 10 seconds – you’re actually the only one who may feel chilly. The engine warms up while you drive. Running your car any longer beforehand is just a waste of gas.
SAVE: Depending on engine size, temperature and other variables, modern cars can use about a third of a gallon of gas per hour while idling. By giving up that 10-minute idle every weekday morning, you could save more than a gallon a month – $32 a year or $416 over the life of the vehicle.
MYTH: Premium gas is a treat for your car. False: Unless your vehicle is specifically tailored to take advantage of the higher octane level in the fuel, you’re wasting your money. Go by what is recommended in your owner’s manual and leave it at that.
SAVE: At current gas prices, drivers may save up to $150 a year by opting for unleaded gas instead of premium.
MYTH: The number listed on the sidewall of your tire is the recommended tire pressure. False: In most cases, this is actually the maximum pressure allowed for that tire. The recommended amount of pressure is usually listed on the inside door panel – check your owner’s manual to be sure.
SAVE: The government estimates that the average driver’s tires are underinflated by 26 percent. Generally, underinflated treads lower gas mileage about a half percent for each pound lacking when the pressure of all four tires is added up. An average driver with underinflated tires could add $79 a year to his or her fuel bill – or more than $1,027 in the lifetime of the vehicle. You could also save nearly half a barrel of crude oil per year by keeping your tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended level. Per the EPA, one barrel of crude oil equals 42 gallons of gasoline.
MYTH: Buy gas in the morning and you’ll save money. False: The old adage was to fill up in the morning when gas was coolest and most dense because gas is sold by volume and you would get more gas for your buck.
But gas is sold in underground, nonmetallic tanks that typically hold about 10,000 gallons, and it will take a lot of sunlight to raise the temperature even a degree. (However, pumping your gas when it’s cooler does mean less release of vapors, which is better for the environment.)
SAVE: Do your research before buying. Ford’s SIRIUS Travel Link™ sorts gas stations by price on the navigation screen, but Web sites like MSNAutos.com can also help drivers navigate to bargains. In our quick research, we found two gas stations in New York City – less than a mile apart – with 30 cents per gallon price difference. If you know before you go and fill up for less every time, it could result in $227 in your pocket annually, or $2,951 saved over the lifetime of your car.

Thoroughbred Ford is Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer! Why buy a car when you can own a Thoroughbred!

Posted on 28 April 2010 | 5:00 am
 

FORD POSTS FIRST QUARTER 2010 NET INCOME OF $2.1 BILLION AS STRONG NEW PRODUCTS FUEL PROFITABLE GROWTH

Ford reports first quarter net income of $2.1 billion, or 50 cents per share, a $3.5 billion improvement from first quarter 2009. Pre-tax operating profit of $2 billion, or 46 cents per share, a $4 billion improvement from first quarter 2009++
Ford Automotive operations posted first quarter pre-tax operating profit of $1.2 billion, a $3.2 billion improvement from first quarter 2009++
Ford North America reported first quarter pre-tax operating profit of more than $1.2 billion, a $1.9 billion improvement from first quarter 2009; Ford Europe earned a pre-tax operating profit of $107 million, a $692 million improvement from a year ago++
Revenue for the quarter totaled $28.1 billion, a $3.7 billion improvement from first quarter 2009++
Strong response to new vehicles drove the largest quarterly U.S. market share gain since 1977
Ended the quarter with $25.3 billion of Automotive gross cash, with operating-related cash outflow of $100 million. Ford ended the quarter with $34.3 billion in Automotive debt
Ford Motor Credit Company reported first quarter pre-tax operating profit of $828 million, an $864 million improvement from first quarter 2009
Based on Ford’s improving performance, the gradually strengthening economy, and its present assumptions, Ford now expects to deliver solid profits this year with positive Automotive operating-related cash flow
Download Full Financial Release (PDF)
Download Slides (PDF)
Financial Results Summary+
First Quarter

2009
2010
O/(U) 2009
Wholesales (000) ++
986
1,253
267
Revenue (Bils.) ++
$ 24.4
$ 28.1
$ 3.7




Operating Results ++



Automotive Sector (Mils.)
$ (1,963)
$ 1,195
$ 3,158
Financial Services Sector (Mils.)
(62)
815
877
Pre-Tax Results (Mils.)
$ (2,025)
$ 2,010
$ 4,035




After-Tax Results (Mils.)
$ (1,793)
$ 1,761
$ 3,554




Earnings Per Share+++
$ (0.75)
$ 0.46
$ 1.21




Special Items Pre-Tax (Mils.)
$ 363
$ 125
$ (238)




Net Income/(Loss) Attributable to Ford



After-Tax Results (Mils.)
$ (1,427)
$ 2,085
$ 3,512
Earnings Per Share
$ (0.60)
$ 0.50
$ 1.10




Automotive Gross Cash (Bils.)
$ 20.9
$ 25.3
$ 4.4
See end notes on page 8.
DEARBORN, Mich., April 27, 2010 – Ford Motor Company [NYSE: F] today reported first quarter 2010 net income of $2.1 billion, or 50 cents per share, a $3.5 billion improvement from first quarter 2009, as strong selling new products, improvements in its global Automotive operations, and higher profits at Ford Credit boosted results.
Excluding special items, Ford reported pre-tax operating profit of $2 billion, or 46 cents per share, an improvement of $4 billion from a year ago. It marked Ford’s highest quarterly pre-tax operating profit in six years.
Ford North America posted first quarter pre-tax operating profit of more than $1.2 billion, a $1.9 billion improvement from first quarter 2009, as a result of higher volume and mix and favorable net pricing. Ford operations in South America, Europe and Asia Pacific Africa as well as Ford Credit also posted pre-tax operating profits in the first quarter and improved results over the same period in 2009.
“The Ford team around the world achieved another very solid quarter, and we are delivering profitable growth,” said Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally. “Our plan is working, and the basic engine that drives our business results – products, market share, revenue and cost structure – is performing stronger each quarter, even as the economy and vehicle demand remain relatively soft.”
At the end of March, Ford entered into a definitive agreement to sell Volvo and related assets to Zhejiang Geely Holding Group for $1.8 billion, subject to customary purchase price adjustments. The sale is expected to close in the third quarter of 2010. As a result of the agreement to sell Volvo, all of Volvo’s 2010 results are being reported as special items and excluded from Ford’s operating results; 2009 data include Volvo.
Ford’s first quarter revenue was $28.1 billion, up $3.7 billion from the same period a year ago. If Volvo had been excluded from 2009, Automotive revenue would have increased by $7 billion, or more than 30 percent. Ford finished the first quarter with $25.3 billion in Automotive gross cash, an increase of $400 million since year end. Automotive operating-related cash outflow was $100 million during the first quarter, as Automotive pre-tax operating profit was more than offset by changes in working capital and other timing differences, as well as a $300 million payment to Ford Credit reflecting up-front subvention payment. The company ended the first quarter with total Automotive debt of $34.3 billion, an increase of $700 million compared to year-end 2009.
On April 6, Ford paid down $3 billion of the drawn amount of its 2013 revolving credit facility. This payment has reduced Automotive gross cash and debt by $3 billion, which will be reflected on Ford’s second quarter 2010 balance sheet. The action did not affect Automotive liquidity, as the repaid amounts remain available for borrowing.
Special items were a favorable pre-tax amount of $125 million in the first quarter of 2010, or 7 cents per share. Ford recorded a $188 million gain related to held-for-sale adjustments for Volvo, which was offset partially by $63 million of global personnel reductions and dealer-related charges. If Volvo had continued to be reported as an ongoing operation, Ford would have reported a first quarter pre-tax operating profit of $49 million for Volvo.
“We are seeing the benefits of our One Ford plan around the world,” said Lewis Booth, Ford executive vice president and chief financial officer. “All of our business operations – North America, South America, Europe, Asia Pacific Africa and Ford Credit – were not only profitable, but also showed substantially improved results over a year ago.”
The following discussion of first quarter highlights and results are on a pre-tax basis and exclude special items. See tables following “Safe Harbor/Risk Factors” for the nature and amount of these special items and any necessary reconciliation to U.S. GAAP. Discussion of Automotive cost changes is measured primarily at prior-year exchange, and excludes special items and discontinued operations. In addition, costs that vary directly with volume, such as material, freight, and warranty costs are measured at prior-year volume and mix.
ADDITIONAL FIRST QUARTER 2010 HIGHLIGHTS
Increased U.S. market share by 2.7 percentage points to 16.6 percent and a 14.1 share of the retail market, fueled by strong sales of Fusion, F-150, Taurus and Focus
Achieved market leadership in Canada, boosting market share to 15.5 percent and increasing sales by 29 percent
Increased sales by 14 percent in the South American region and sold a record 88,000 vehicles in Brazil
Increased sales in Europe and achieved a 9.4 percent market share. In March, Ford was the best selling brand in Europe for the 19 markets we track
Ford Asia Pacific Africa increased sales by 39 percent as the Fiesta gained momentum in several markets
Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles achieved the highest customer satisfaction and the fewest number of “things gone wrong” among all full-line manufacturers, according to the first quarter Global Quality Research System survey for the U.S.
Revealed new global Ford Focus, which goes on sale early next year in North America and Europe, and in 2012 for Asia
Revealed 2011 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX, which reach showrooms this fall and will be the first vehicles to feature MyFord Touch and MyLincoln Touch
Unveiled the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, expected to be America’s most fuel-efficient luxury sedan
Announced partnership with Microsoft to use Microsoft Hohm as a platform to help future owners of Ford’s electric vehicles manage energy use
Began production of Figo small car for India; received 10,000 orders in first month on the market
Began production of the next-generation F-Series Super Duty lineup with new fuel-efficient diesel and gasoline engines
Announced Ford’s electric vehicles plan is extending to Europe with plans to launch five full-electric or hybrid vehicles for European customers by 2013
Announced plan to increase investment in Brazil and Argentina by $450 million to more than $2.6 billion by 2015
Announced $2.3 billion investment in U.K. manufacturing facilities over the next five years to support production of low-carbon emission vehicles
Announced $400 million investment in South Africa to support production of Ford’s next-generation compact pickup truck and Puma diesel engine
Confirmed $400 million investment in Chicago Assembly Plant and the addition of 1,200 jobs to support production of the next-generation Ford Explorer
AUTOMOTIVE SECTOR
Automotive Sector+
First Quarter

2009
2010
O/(U) 2009
Wholesales (000)
986
1,253
267
Revenue (Bils.)
$ 21.0
$ 25.4
$ 4.4
Pre-Tax Results (Mils.)
$ (1,963)
$ 1,195
$ 3,158
For the first quarter of 2010, Ford’s worldwide Automotive sector reported a pre-tax operating profit of $1.2 billion, compared with a loss of $2 billion a year ago. The improvement reflected higher volume and mix, as well as improvements in net pricing across all Automotive segments.
Total vehicle wholesales in the first quarter were 1.3 million, compared with 986,000 units a year ago. Worldwide Automotive revenue in the first quarter was $25.4 billion, up from $21 billion a year ago.
North America: For the first quarter, Ford North America reported a pre-tax operating profit of more than $1.2 billion, compared with a loss of $665 million a year ago. The improvement was more than explained by higher volume and mix and favorable net pricing. First quarter revenue was $14.1 billion, up from $10 billion a year ago.
South America: For the first quarter, Ford South America reported a pre-tax operating profit of $203 million, compared with a profit of $63 million a year ago. The increase was more than explained by favorable exchange and net pricing, offset partially by higher costs. First quarter revenue was $2 billion, up from $1.4 billion a year ago.
Europe: For the first quarter, Ford Europe reported a pre-tax operating profit of $107 million, compared with a loss of $585 million a year ago. The improvement was explained primarily by higher volume, lower costs, and higher parts profit. First quarter revenue was $7.7 billion, up from $5.8 billion a year ago.
Asia Pacific Africa: For the first quarter, Ford Asia Pacific Africa’s pre-tax operating profit was $23 million, compared with a loss of $97 million a year ago. The improvement was more than explained by higher profits of unconsolidated China joint ventures driven by higher industry volumes , favorable net pricing, increases in industry volume outside of China and favorable exchange. First quarter revenue was $1.6 billion, up from $1.2 billion a year ago.
Other Automotive: Other Automotive consists primarily of interest and financing-related costs and resulted in a first quarter pre-tax operating loss of $391 million, more than explained by net interest expense of $492 million.
FINANCIAL SERVICES SECTOR
Financial Services Sector+
First Quarter
(in millions)
2009
2010
O/(U) 2009
Ford Credit Pre-Tax Results
$ (36)
$ 828
$ 864
Other Financial Services Pre-Tax Results
(26)
(13)
13
Financial Services Pre-Tax Results
$ (62)
$ 815
$ 877
For the first quarter, the Financial Services sector reported a pre-tax operating profit of $815 million, compared with a loss of $62 million a year ago.
Ford Motor Credit Company: Ford Credit reported a pre-tax operating profit of $828 million in the first quarter, compared with a pre-tax loss of $36 million a year ago. The improvement primarily reflected lower depreciation expense for leased vehicles due to higher auction values and a lower provision for credit losses, offset partially by lower volume.OUTLOOK Ford said it continues to make progress on all four pillars of its plan:
Aggressively restructuring to operate profitably at the current demand and changing model mix
Accelerating the development of new products that customers want and value
Financing the plan and improving the balance sheet
Working together effectively as one team, leveraging Ford’s global assets
Overall, Ford said its performance this year is off to a more encouraging start than anticipated. Based on Ford’s improving performance, the gradually strengthening economy, and its present assumptions, Ford now expects to deliver solid profits this year with positive Automotive operating-related cash flow.
Ford expects full-year 2010 U.S. industry sales will be in the range of 11.5 million to 12.5 million, consistent with the guidance previously communicated by the company.
In Europe, Ford now expects full-year industry volume will be in the 14 million to 15 million range, which is somewhat higher than the previous guidance. The change reflects strong first quarter results, although uncertainty remains in Europe about the extent of payback from scrappage programs.
Initial quality improved across all of Ford’s regions based on the latest Global Quality Research System survey. Ford is on track to meet full-year quality targets.
As mentioned previously, Ford has achieved significant structural cost reductions over the past four years, and in 2010 expects full year Automotive structural costs to be somewhat higher as Ford increases production to meet demand.
Ford expects full year U.S. total market share and its share of the U.S. retail market to be equal or improved compared with 2009 and Europe market share is expected to be equal to 2009.
Ford expects second quarter 2010 production to be up compared with year-ago levels and up compared to first quarter 2010 production. The increase reflects strong customer demand for our products, the maintenance of competitive stock levels, and the non-recurrence of prior year stock reductions.
Ford now expects Ford Credit’s 2010 profits to be about the same as 2009. The recent improvements in used vehicle auction values and credit loss performance are expected to offset the effects of lower average receivables and the non-recurrence of certain favorable 2009 factors.
“We are absolutely committed to building great products, a stronger business, and contributing to a better world,” Mulally said. “Our product lineup is stronger than ever, and our leadership in quality, fuel efficiency, safety, smart design and value is resonating with consumers.
“We remain cautiously optimistic about positive signs emerging in the global economy, while knowing that the recovery is fragile and the global auto industry continues to deal with excess capacity. For us, the most important thing we can do is to stay focused and continue to make progress on our plan,” Mulally said.
Ford’s 2010 planning assumptions regarding the industry and operating metrics include the following:
Planning Assumptions
First Quarter

Full Year Plan


Full Year Outlook
Industry Volume (SAAR)*





– U.S. (million units)
11.2

11.5 – 12.5

On Track
– Europe (million units)**
16.0

13.5 – 14.5

14.0 – 15.0






Operational Metrics





Compared with Prior Year:





-- Quality:
Improved

Improve

On Track






-- Automotive Structural Costs***
$100 Million Lower

Somewhat Higher

On Track






-- U.S. Total Market Share (Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury)
16.6%

Equal/Improve

On Track
-- U.S. Share of Retail Market****
14.1%

Equal/Improve

On Track
-- Europe Market Share **
9.4%

Equal

On Track






Absolute Amount:





-- Automotive Operating-Related Cash Flow
$(100) Million

Positive

On Track
-- Capital Spending
$900 Million

$4.5 to $5 Billion

On Track

FORD EXPECTS TO DELIVER SOLID PROFITS IN 2010WITH POSITIVE AUTOMOTIVE OPERATING-RELATED CASH FLOW
**********
Includes medium and heavy trucks European 19 markets we trackStructural cost changes are measured primarily at prior-year exchange, and exclude special items and discontinued operationsEstimate
Ford’s production volumes are shown below:
Production Volumes
Actual
Forecast

First Quarter 2010
Second Quarter 2010

Units (000)
O/(U)2009 (000)

Units (000)
O/(U)2009 (000)





Ford North America
574
225
625
174
Ford South America
110
11
135
25
Ford Europe
442
99
448
50
Ford Asia Pacific Africa
194
79
213
73





CONFERENCE CALL DETAILSFord Motor Company [NYSE:F] releases its preliminary first quarter 2010 financial results at 7 a.m. EDT today. The following briefings will be conducted after the announcement:
At 9 a.m. EDT, Alan Mulally, president and chief executive officer, and Lewis Booth, executive vice president and chief financial officer, will host a call for the investment community and news media to discuss first quarter 2010 results.
At 11 a.m. EDT, Bob Shanks, Ford vice president and controller, Neil Schloss, Ford vice president and treasurer, and K.R. Kent, Ford Motor Credit Company vice chairman and chief financial officer, will host a conference call for fixed income analysts and investors.
The presentations (listen-only) and supporting materials will be available on the Internet at www.shareholder.ford.com. Representatives of the news media and the investment community participating by teleconference will have the opportunity to ask questions following the presentations.
Access Information – Tuesday, April 27Earnings Call: 9 a.m. EDTToll Free: 866-318-8620International: 617-399-5139Earnings Passcode: “Ford Earnings”
Fixed Income: 11 a.m. EDTToll Free: 866-318-8613International: 617-399-5132Earnings Passcode: “Ford Fixed Income”
Replays – Available after noon day of the event through Tuesday, May 4www.shareholder.ford.comToll Free: 888-286-8010International: 617-801-6888
Passcodes:Earnings: 73198326Fixed Income: 99284554
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 176,000 employees and about 80 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and, until its sale, Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company.
# # #
+ The financial results discussed herein are presented on a preliminary basis; final data will be included in Ford’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2010. As a result of Ford’s agreement to sell Volvo, 2010 results for Volvo are being reported as special items and excluded from operating results; 2009 operating results include Volvo unless otherwise indicated. As disclosed last quarter, the new accounting standard for variable interest entity consolidation, effective Jan. 1, 2010, required Ford to deconsolidate many of its joint ventures. In addition to results in the first quarter of 2010 reflecting this new standard, 2009 results have been adjusted to reflect the deconsolidation of many of Ford’s joint ventures, with Ford’s joint venture in Turkey, Ford Otosan, being the most significant. For wholesale unit sales and production volumes, amounts include the sale or production of Ford-brand and JMC-brand vehicles by unconsolidated affiliates. JMC refers to our Chinese joint venture, Jiangling Motors Corporation. See materials supporting the April 27, 2010 conference calls at www.shareholder.ford.com for discussion of wholesale unit volumes. Discussion of overall Automotive cost changes is at constant exchange and excludes special items and discontinued operations; in addition, costs that vary directly with production volume, such as material, freight, and warranty costs, are measured at constant volume and mix (generally, by holding constant prior-year levels). See tables following the "Safe Harbor/Risk Factors” for the nature and amount of special items, and reconciliation of items designated as “excluding special items” to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). Also see the tables following "Safe Harbor/Risks Factors” reconciliation of Automotive gross cash and operating-related cash flow to GAAP. ++ Excluding special items. +++ Excluding special items and “Income/(Loss) attributable to non-controlling interests.” See tables following "Safe Harbor/Risk Factors” for the nature and amount of these special items and reconciliation to GAAP. Safe Harbor/Risk Factors
Statements included herein may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on expectations, forecasts, and assumptions by our management and involve a number of risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those stated, including, without limitation:
Further declines in industry sales volume, particularly in the United States or Europe, due to financial crisis, deepening recession, geo-political events, or other factors;
Decline in market share;
Lower-than-anticipated market acceptance of new or existing products;
An increase in or acceleration of market shift beyond our current planning assumptions from sales of trucks, medium- and large-sized utilities, or other more profitable vehicles, particularly in the United States;
A return to elevated gasoline prices, as well as the potential for volatile prices or reduced availability;
Continued or increased price competition resulting from industry overcapacity, currency fluctuations, or other factors;
Adverse effects from the bankruptcy, insolvency, or government-funded restructuring of, change in ownership or control of, or alliances entered into by a major competitor;
A prolonged disruption of the debt and securitization markets;
Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, commodity prices, and interest rates;
Economic distress of suppliers that may require us to provide substantial financial support or take other measures to ensure supplies of components or materials and could increase our costs, affect our liquidity, or cause production disruptions;
Single-source supply of components or materials;
Labor or other constraints on our ability to restructure our business;
Work stoppages at Ford or supplier facilities or other interruptions of production;
Substantial pension and postretirement health care and life insurance liabilities impairing our liquidity or financial condition;
Worse-than-assumed economic and demographic experience for our postretirement benefit plans (e.g., discount rates or investment returns);
Restriction on use of tax attributes from tax law "ownership change;"
The discovery of defects in vehicles resulting in delays in new model launches, recall campaigns, or increased warranty costs;
Increased safety, emissions, fuel economy, or other regulation resulting in higher costs, cash expenditures, and/or sales restrictions;
Unusual or significant litigation or governmental investigations arising out of alleged defects in our products, perceived environmental impacts, or otherwise;
A change in our requirements for parts or materials where we have long-term supply arrangements that commit us to purchase minimum or fixed quantities of certain parts or materials, or to pay a minimum amount to the seller ("take-or-pay" contracts);
Adverse effects on our results from a decrease in or cessation of government incentives related to capital investments;
Adverse effects on our operations resulting from certain geo-political or other events;
Substantial levels of Automotive indebtedness adversely affecting our financial condition or preventing us from fulfilling our debt obligations (which may grow because we are able to incur substantially more debt, including additional secured debt);
Failure of financial institutions to fulfill commitments under committed credit facilities;
Inability of Ford Credit to obtain competitive funding;
Inability of Ford Credit to access debt, securitization, or derivative markets around the world at competitive rates or in sufficient amounts due to credit rating downgrades, market volatility, market disruption, or other factors;
Higher-than-expected credit losses;
Increased competition from banks or other financial institutions seeking to increase their share of financing Ford vehicles;
Collection and servicing problems related to finance receivables and net investment in operating leases;
Lower-than-anticipated residual values or higher-than-expected return volumes for leased vehicles;
New or increased credit, consumer, or data protection or other regulations resulting in higher costs and/or additional financing restrictions; and
Inability to implement our One Ford plan.
We cannot be certain that any expectation, forecast, or assumption made in preparing forward-looking statements will prove accurate, or that any projection will be realized. It is to be expected that there may be differences between projected and actual results. Our forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of their initial issuance, and we do not undertake any obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. For additional discussion of these risks, see "Item 1A. Risk Factors" in our 2009 Form 10-K Report.
Download Full Financial Release (PDF)

Thoroughbred Ford is Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer! Why buy a car when you can own a Thoroughbred!

Posted on 27 April 2010 | 1:29 pm
 

SYNC APPLINK TO LAUNCH ON 2011 FIESTA, MAKING FORD FIRST TO DELIVER VOICE CONTROL OF SMARTPHONE APPS


Ford will first offer SYNC® AppLink, a downloadable software program, on the 2011 Fiesta, allowing owners to access and control AndroidTM and BlackBerry® smartphone apps with voice commands and vehicle controls
Pandora internet radio, Stitcher “smart radio” and Orangatame’s OpenBeak are the first SYNC-enabled mobile applications
Ford to create SYNC developer community with launch of new “Mobile Application Developer Network” (www.syncmyride.com/developer), giving developers a pathway to partner with Ford on SYNC-enabled applications
Ford’s platform approach with SYNC is poised to harness smartphone app development and mobile web access; apps expected to be a $4 billion industry by 2012; analysts predict the mobile device to become the No. 1 source for Internet access by 2015
– Customers have spoken -- asking for safe, convenient access to their smartphone apps while in the vehicle – and Ford is responding by announcing the new SYNC AppLink software that will allow hands-free voice control of popular smartphone apps.
SYNC AppLink, a downloadable software upgrade, will be released for 2011 Ford Fiesta owners with the award-winning SYNC communications and infotainment system later this year, allowing drivers hands-free control of apps on their Android or BlackBerry smartphones via voice commands and vehicle controls. Ford will introduce AppLink on most SYNC-equipped vehicles next year, as well as provide interoperability with other smartphones.
“The growth in smartphone mobile apps has been explosive, and Ford has worked hard to respond at the speed of the consumer electronics market,” said Doug VanDagens, director of Ford’s Connected Services Organization. “SYNC is the only connectivity system available that can extend that functionality into the car. AppLink will allow drivers to control some of the most popular apps through SYNC’s voice commands and steering wheel buttons, helping drivers keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.”
The Android MarketTM and BlackBerry App World™ are among the leading growth markets for mobile apps. The new SYNC AppLink will seamlessly integrate apps using the vehicle’s voice and user interface controls, including buttons on the steering wheel, increasing eyes-on-the-road and hands-on-the-wheel time.
The first SYNC-enabled apps available later this year include Pandora internet radio, Stitcher “smart radio” and Orangatame’s OpenBeak app for Twitter, with additional apps on the way. Updated versions of each app, incorporating the SYNC application programming interface (API), will be available through Android Market and BlackBerry App World for customers to download.
Built-in, Beamed-in and Brought-in: The SYNC App Ecosystem
From its introduction, Ford has been building an ecosystem of available SYNC apps, continuously improving the consumer experience.
Built-in apps, including Vehicle Health Report and 911 Assist™, are downloaded and installed directly on the in-car SYNC operating system
SYNC apps like Traffic, Directions & Information rely on beamed-in, or “cloud-based,” information. Drivers access the Ford Service Delivery Network, a network of data centers providing turn-by-turn directions, business searches, and on-demand news, sports and weather information, through a simple voice-connection using their cell phone.
SYNC AppLink represents the third category of the ecosystem, brought-in apps, leveraging apps installed on a user’s smartphone, such as Pandora, Stitcher and OpenBeak
Studies show mobile app development – a niche market just three years ago – is expected to blossom into a $4 billion industry by 2012. Sites serving specific mobile operating systems, such as Android and BlackBerry OS, have experienced massive growth, with analysts predicting the mobile device will become the No. 1 source for Internet access by 2015, surpassing the home computer.
Ford and SYNC will answer the consumer demand by offering the only platform available for drivers to safely control their mobile devices and applications in the car. Leveraging SYNC’s safer voice commands and steering wheel controls, drivers are able to keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. “Brought-in” apps residing on a consumer’s smartphone also eliminate the need for yet another piece of hardware to be installed in the car which only serves to add cost and complexity.
Customers will be able to download SYNC-enabled mobile apps through the same app store interfaces currently used. As SYNC-enabled versions of existing apps are released into the app stores, users will be prompted to download the latest version upon connection. Also, as developers grasp the notion that the vehicle interior has opened to them, a new dimension of apps designed from the outset to maximize the unique in-car environment will follow.
Opening the door to developers
To facilitate future SYNC-enabled app development, Ford has also activated a new developer network on its SYNCmyride Web site (www.syncmyride.com/developer). Interested developers can find a link to submit innovative ideas, and sign up for the latest information and news about the SYNC application programming interface (API) and software development kit (SDK). The package will allow developers to modify existing applications and create all-new apps that can successfully interface with SYNC.
Working with trusted partners, Ford is completing beta-testing on the SDK. Once beta-testing is complete, a broader release of the development tools is planned for later this year. Initial reports have been positive, with one of Ford’s development partners creating a SYNC-enabled version of its app just three days after receiving the development tools.
“We’re very pleased by the rapid development time and positive feedback we’ve seen from our first partners,” said VanDagens. “We want to encourage all developers to visit our site and submit ideas, helping us tap into the global pool of innovation and creativity.”
Thoroughbred Ford is Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer! Why buy a car when you can own a Thoroughbred!

Posted on 26 April 2010 | 3:48 pm
 

Happy Earth Day - Go Green Buy Blue

FORD HYBRIDS EARN TOP GREEN VEHICLE KUDOS FROM KBB.COM

Just in time for Earth Day and for the second year in a row, the Ford Escape Hybrid and Ford Fusion Hybrid have earned spots on kbb.com's Top 10 Green Cars for 2010 list. Vehicles chosen were required to offer fuel economy and CO2 emissions superior to the bulk of vehicles in their class, while providing customers with safety, creature comforts and driving enjoyment. For more information, visit

 www.kbb.com/GreenCars2010.

Thoroughbred Ford is Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer! Why buy a car when you can own a Thoroughbred!

Posted on 22 April 2010 | 7:45 am
 

Ford Recognizes the Purchasing Power of Women

Understanding what women want when it comes to vehicles, and giving it to them, is more important today than ever before. As the National Women’s History Project sponsors its 30th Women’s History Month in March, Ford Motor Company is more aware than ever of the changing role that women hold in today’s society.
“Women pack a powerful purchasing punch,” said Christine Stasiw Lazarchuk, director of global marketing research for Ford. “And that’s grabbed the attention of all automakers searching for new business in an era of tight competition. Women are directly responsible for 45 to 50 percent of all new vehicles purchased in the U.S, and they have a direct influence of up to 80 percent of vehicles they don’t purchase themselves. And 65 percent take their own vehicles to the dealership or shop for repair. Women account for a whopping $85 billion in automotive and related businesses.”But it’s not only the U.S. that is seeing women’s roles shift.
“The whole world is changing, and it’s changing fast,” said Sheryl Connelly, Ford’s global trend manager. “Women are at the forefront of change that’s contributing significantly to an increase in their progress and power.”
Connelly sees five major global factors driving that change:
Improved education: Although gender disparities persist in some countries, the gender gap in education continues to narrow, allowing women to find their way into the work force. In the U.S., the number of women earning Ph.D.s is rising at a rate of 63 percent a year.
Career opportunities: With more education, women are finding their way into the work force, earning their own money. In China, for instance, 44 percent of government jobs are held by women.
Financial independence: Increased earning power is leading to financial independence for more women. Working women in relationships often out-earn their partners – by 25 percent in the U.S., 30 percent in Great Britain.
Delayed marriage and parenthood: More and more women are choosing to delay marriage to pursue education, career and personal development, with many choosing to have fewer children later in life. In Bangladesh, for instance, marriage is delayed due to incentives for girls to attend primary and secondary school, and in Brazil, the declining fertility rate has been attributed to women modeling their lives on the small, happy families they see on television.
Media: The spread of information in the media, particularly the Internet, has empowered women. About half of women worldwide own and use personal computers.
As the world changes, women obviously change with it, Connelly notes. When the economy began to crumble, many women took a lead role in keeping the home front together – either going back to work or taking over the belt-tightening of the budget.
“Gender roles have blurred,” Connelly said. “You no longer have the women always staying at home and the man of the house always the breadwinner. You don’t have those definitive roles anymore.”
That could make things difficult for Ford’s marketing team, charged with reaching target demographics that include, of course, the specific needs and wants of women.
Ford researchers queried women with 2008 vehicles and found that these are the highest-ranked features they don’t have on their vehicles, but they’d like to:
Run-flat tires (57 percent)
Rain-sensing wipers (44 percent)
Auto park assist (32 percent)
Tire pressure monitoring system (18 percent)

Thoroughbred Ford is Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer! Why buy a car when you can own a Thoroughbred!

Posted on 21 April 2010 | 5:00 am
 

Ford Now Has Industry's Highest Customer Satisfaction With Quality, New Survey Shows.

DEARBORN, April 19, 2010 – Ford Motor Company now has the highest customer satisfaction with vehicle quality among all major automakers, a new consumer research study shows.
Eighty-four percent of customers who purchased 2010 model-year Ford, Lincoln and Mercury cars and trucks are satisfied with the quality of their vehicle, a 4 percentage point improvement since the fourth quarter of 2009, according to the first quarter Global Quality Research System (GQRS) study conducted for Ford by RDA Group of Bloomfield Hills, Mich.
With the improvement, Ford’s customer satisfaction scores are now significantly higher than all other full-line automotive manufacturers, including Asian and European automakers, according to the study.
The study also showed Ford has the fewest number of vehicle defects or “things gone wrong” among all full-line manufacturers in the first three months of ownership. Owners of 2010 model Ford, Lincoln and Mercury owners reported 1,107 TGWs per 1,000 vehicles -- an 8 percent improvement compared to last year.
“To become the No. 1 automaker in terms of customer satisfaction with vehicle quality is amazing accomplishment and testament to the whole company’s commitment to quality,” said Bennie Fowler, Ford group vice president, Global Quality. “All the third parties studies are showing the same thing – Ford now has world-class quality.”
As Ford’s quality has improved, it has reduced warranty repair rates on vehicles in their first three months of service by an average of more than 40 percent in every major business region around the world in the past three years.
“Ford has proven its commitment to quality by demonstrating steady improvements through consistency and discipline.” said Donald Pietrowski, president, RDA Group. “Those improvements are clearly reflected in rising customer satisfaction with its products.”
Ford captured eight segment leaders in customer satisfaction, TGW or both. Notably, Fusion Hybrid owners now report 93 percent satisfaction with the quality of their vehicle while 92 percent of Taurus owners are satisfied.
The following models led their respective segments in the survey:
Taurus – Satisfaction leader D/E car.
Fusion Hybrid –Satisfaction leader C/D car
Milan Hybrid – TGW leader C/D car
Focus -- Satisfaction leader C car
Mountaineer – TGW leader Medium Traditional Utility
Expedition – TGW and Satisfaction leader Large Utility
Navigator – TGW and Satisfaction Leader Large Premium Utility
Ranger – TGW and Satisfaction Leader Compact Pickup
These dramatic gains in quality have also contributed to a 23 percent year-over-year improvement in the resale values of Ford vehicles with one to five years on the road – outpacing the industry average by 4 percentage points.
“While we are proud of the progress we’ve made, we know how important it is to keep the momentum going,” said Fowler. “We can never be satisfied.”
The GQRS study is conducted on a quarterly basis with scores assessed from survey responses collected from owners of vehicles purchased within specific time frames.
New vehicle owners are asked to report any defects or issues as well as rate their satisfaction with vehicle quality on a scale of 1 to 10 across an array of vehicle systems and features.
###
About Ford Motor CompanyFord Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 198,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and, until its sale, Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company.

Thoroughbred Ford is Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer! Why buy a car when you can own a Thoroughbred!

Posted on 20 April 2010 | 2:04 pm
 

Sync Voice Control for Smartphones

SYNC AppLink to launch on 2011 fiesta, MAKING FORD FIRST TO DELIVER voice control of smartphone apps



· Ford will first offer SYNC® AppLink, a downloadable software program, on the 2011 Fiesta, allowing owners to access and control AndroidTM and BlackBerry® smartphone apps with voice commands and vehicle controls

· Pandora internet radio, Stitcher "smart radio" and Orangatame's OpenBeak are the first SYNC-enabled mobile applications

· Ford to create SYNC developer community with launch of new "Mobile Application Developer Network" (www.syncmyride.com/developer), giving developers a pathway to partner with Ford on SYNC-enabled applications

· Ford's platform approach with SYNC is poised to harness smartphone app development and mobile web access; apps expected to be a $4 billion industry by 2012; analysts predict the mobile device to become the No. 1 source for Internet access by 2015

SAN FRANCISCO, April 20, 2010 – Customers have spoken -- asking for safe, convenient access to their smartphone apps while in the vehicle – and Ford is responding by announcing the new SYNC AppLink software that will allow hands-free voice control of popular smartphone apps.

SYNC AppLink, a downloadable software upgrade, will be released for 2011 Ford Fiesta owners with the award-winning SYNC communications and infotainment system later this year, allowing drivers hands-free control of apps on their Android or BlackBerry smartphones via voice commands and vehicle controls. Ford will introduce AppLink on all SYNC-equipped vehicles next year, as well as provide interoperability with iPhone and other smartphones.

"The growth in smartphone mobile apps has been explosive, and Ford has worked hard to respond at the speed of the consumer electronics market," said Doug VanDagens, director of Ford's Connected Services Organization. "SYNC is the only connectivity system available that can extend that functionality into the car. AppLink will allow drivers to control some of the most popular apps through SYNC's voice commands and steering wheel buttons, helping drivers keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road."

The Android MarketTM and BlackBerry App World™ are among the leading growth markets for mobile apps. The new SYNC AppLink will seamlessly integrate apps using the vehicle's voice and user interface controls, including buttons on the steering wheel, increasing eyes-on-the-road and hands-on-the-wheel time.

The first SYNC-enabled apps available later this year include Pandora internet radio, Stitcher "smart radio" and Orangatame's OpenBeak app for Twitter, with additional apps on the way. Updated versions of each app, incorporating the SYNC application programming interface (API), will be available through Android Market and BlackBerry App World for customers to download.

Built-in, Beamed-in and Brought-in: The SYNC App Ecosystem

From its introduction, Ford has been building an ecosystem of available SYNC apps, continuously improving the consumer experience.

· Built-in apps, including Vehicle Health Report and 911 Assist™, are downloaded and installed directly on the in-car SYNC operating system

· SYNC apps like Traffic, Directions & Information rely on beamed-in, or "cloud-based," information. Drivers access the Ford Service Delivery Network, a network of data centers providing turn-by-turn directions, business searches, and on-demand news, sports and weather information, through a simple voice-connection using their cell phone.

· SYNC AppLink represents the third category of the ecosystem, brought-in apps, leveraging apps installed on a user's smartphone, such as Pandora, Stitcher and OpenBeak

Studies show mobile app development – a niche market just three years ago – is expected to blossom into a $4 billion industry by 2012. Sites serving specific mobile operating systems, such as Android and BlackBerry OS, have experienced massive growth, with analysts predicting the mobile device will become the No. 1 source for Internet access by 2015, surpassing the home computer.

Ford and SYNC will answer the consumer demand by offering the only platform available for drivers to safely control their mobile devices and applications in the car. Leveraging SYNC's safer voice commands and steering wheel controls, drivers are able to keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. "Brought-in" apps residing on a consumer's smartphone also eliminate the need for yet another piece of hardware to be installed in the car which only serves to add cost and complexity.

Customers will be able to download SYNC-enabled mobile apps through the same app store interfaces currently used. As SYNC-enabled versions of existing apps are released into the app stores, users will be prompted to download the latest version upon connection. Also, as developers grasp the notion that the vehicle interior has opened to them, a new dimension of apps designed from the outset to maximize the unique in-car environment will follow.

Opening the door to developers

To facilitate future SYNC-enabled app development, Ford has also activated a new developer network on its SYNCmyride Web site (www.syncmyride.com/developer). Interested developers can find a link to submit innovative ideas, and sign up for the latest information and news about the SYNC application programming interface (API) and software development kit (SDK). The package will allow developers to modify existing applications and create all-new apps that can successfully interface with SYNC

Working with trusted partners, Ford is completing beta-testing on the SDK. Once beta-testing is complete, a broader release of the development tools is planned for later this year. Initial reports have been positive, with one of Ford's development partners creating a SYNC-enabled version of its app just three days after receiving the development tools.

"We're very pleased by the rapid development time and positive feedback we've seen from our first partners," said VanDagens. "We want to encourage all developers to visit our site and submit ideas, helping us tap into the global pool of innovation and creativity.

Thoroughbred Ford is Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer! Why buy a car when you can own a Thoroughbred!

Posted on 20 April 2010 | 8:41 am
 

Fiesta is #1 in Europe

STYLISH FORD FIESTA IS EUROPE'S TOP-SELLER IN MARCH AND FOR THE FIRST QUARTER 2010


STYLISH FORD FIESTA IS EUROPE'S TOP-SellER IN MARCH AND FOR THE FIRST QUARTER 2010
  • The stylish, latest generation Ford Fiesta is Europe's top-selling car in March and for the first quarter 2010, according to figures released by JATO Dynamics
  • Fiesta sold 68,630 units in Europe last month, a 25.8 per cent increase from March 2009 and almost 11,800 units ahead of its nearest rival  (JATO Dynamics figures)
  • Fiesta sales in March were the highest for any Ford model on record in a single month in Europe
  • Sales of the Fiesta in the first quarter totaled 140,496 units – over 5,400 units more than the VW Golf (JATO Dynamics figures)
  • Since the latest-generation Ford Fiesta went on sale 18 months ago, over 750,000 have been sold globally (Ford figure)
  • JATO Dynamics confirms Ford to be best-selling brand in Europe in March 

(Click on the picture to download)


COLOGNE, April 16, 2010 – The stylish, latest generation Ford Fiesta is officially Europe's best-selling car in March and for the first quarter 2010, according to the latest figures from the world's leading provider of automotive data and intelligence, JATO Dynamics.*
According to the figures compiled by JATO Dynamics, 68,630 Ford Fiestas were sold in March, a 25.8 per cent increase from the same month last year, and almost 11,800 units ahead of its nearest rival, the Volkswagen Golf.
In the first quarter of 2010, JATO records that 140,496 Ford Fiestas were sold – over 5,400 units ahead of its nearest rival.
"Fiesta simply outpaced VW Golf, with its move to pole position particularly due to its strong March sales in the UK (+14.7%) and Italy (+87%) where 57% of all Fiestas sold (11,251) were LPG-powered," said JATO Dynamics.
Ingvar Sviggum, Ford of Europe's Vice President for Marketing, Sales and Service, said: "Last year was a great year for the Fiesta despite the economic conditions, but this year has been even stronger so far! March sales of the Fiesta were the highest we've ever recorded for any Ford model in a single month in Europe."
"We're very proud of the latest-generation Ford Fiesta, and our customers love it," Sviggum added. "Since it first went on sale 18 months ago, over 750,000 have been sold to customers around the world - this would be an outstanding achievement any time, but even more so given the unprecedented economic situation. And with the launch now underway in North America, I believe the Fiesta will continue to go from strength-to-strength."
In its news release dated April 19, JATO Dynamics also confirmed Ford as Europe's best-selling brand in March.

Notes to Editors:
* JATO Dynamics results are based on data provided by JATO Consult, the company's bespoke consulting service.  Figures are based on 27 European countries.  Ford figures are usually based on its main 19 European markets or 51 total European markets.  Based on Ford's main 19 European markets, Fiesta sales were 68,756 for March, and 140,447 units for the first quarter.

For further details please contact:
Ford
Astrid Wagner: Tel: +49 (0) 221 901 9925, email: awagne16@ford.com
Torque PR Limited
Peter Haynes:  Tel: +44 (0) 1306 871338,email: peter@torquepr.co.uk
Phil Hale: Tel: +44 (0) 1306 871201, email: phil@torquepr.co.uk
Further information also available on www.media.ford.com or www.jato.com
Thoroughbred Ford is Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer! Why buy a car when you can own a Thoroughbred!

Posted on 19 April 2010 | 12:22 pm
 

Spring Has Sprung: Time For Spring Cleaning


Revitalize your hibernating home with simple suggestions:


1. Work from the top down, inside to outside, to avoid getting what you just cleaned dirty again.
2. Do one room, even one area of one room, at a time to avoid unfinished jobs. The satisfaction of seeing one room sparkle will make the hard work feel like it's worth the effort.

3. When tidying, reduce trips around the house by temporarily depositing items in one spot en route to but not at their final destination.

4. Do two things at once. While laundry is going, scrub the shower stall.

5. Make small repairs. If you're not handy, hire someone. 6. Invest in good rubber or vinyl gloves to protect your skin and nails.

7. Dust before vacuuming or cleaning the floor. Try feather or lambswool dusters, especially extendable ones for reaching above window and door casings and into corners. Household rags are invaluable for jobs requiring a damp cloth – natural fibres work best.

8. Buy mops with a squeeze mechanism (great for vinyl, linoleum or ceramic tile floors) and a decent-size heavy-duty pail – one with a measuring scale helps get soap-to-water ratios correct.
9. Don't stand your brooms on their bristles. It will destroy their shape and diminish their effectiveness. Instead, get a broom holder, like the Magic Holder 5-position broom organizer.

10. Use a Swiffer for light dusting, or your favorite broom or vacuum attachment to clean hardwood floors. Then damp-mop with a mild cleaner such as Murphy Oil Soap. I recently discovered BonaKemi's MicroPlus Hardwood Floor Care System, which includes a mop with a removable washable microfibre pad and a nontoxic water-based spray cleaner. It makes the floors glow, and smell good, too.
Thoroughbred Ford is Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer! Why buy a car when you can own a Thoroughbred!

Posted on 17 April 2010 | 3:19 pm
 

2011 Ford Fiesta Reviews


2011 Ford Fiesta



Pros and Cons
Super fun to drive
Great build quality
Comfortable, upscale cabin
Base model is sparsely-equipped

Ford Fiesta - What the Auto Press Says
Reviewers are nearly unanimous in saying that the 2011 Ford Fiesta sets new benchmarks for the affordable small car class. Even reviewers who don't go that far say the class leaders should be watching their backs.

Ask any car lover and they'll tell you: some of the world's best small cars never make it stateside. With the 2011 Ford Fiesta, that's changed. On sale in Europe since 2008, the most recent iteration of the Fiesta hits the U.S. in the summer of 2010. AutoWeek says, "The Fiesta is as good a small car as can be found, sourced from anywhere in the world. That it comes from the Blue Oval is remarkable and heartening; its brilliance is the first ray of sunshine on what has been a seemingly midnight horizon."

The Fiesta gets high marks from almost every reviewer who has driven it because it offers things many other small cars lack: a fun driving experience and a comfortable, upscale cabin. With the Fiesta, many reviewers say, Ford may radically alter what American buyers expect from small cars. The Fiesta has features rarely seen in the Affordable Small Car class, from available heated seats to Ford's SYNC system to an airbag for the driver's knees. But what will seal the deal for many buyers is the Fiesta's hybrid-like fuel economy. Ford says it should get 30 miles per gallon in the city and 40 miles per gallon on the highway. Those numbers are close to what many hybrids offer, but the Fiesta will cost thousands less.

However, there's always the risk that the praise may be premature. Many of the reviews we analyzed were of European-spec Fiestas. While the differences between the U.S. and European models are slight (the U.S. model gets different tires, a slightly more powerful engine and a sedan body style), those changes should make a difference for some buyers. Plus, reviewers have been enjoying well-optioned higher trims. In the base trim, which comes with few standout features, reviewers may not be so effusive.

Reference: US News

Thoroughbred Ford is Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer! Why buy a car when you can own a Thoroughbred!

Posted on 5 April 2010 | 2:46 pm
 

Ford and Microsoft Team up again

FORD, MICROSOFT TEAM UP TO HELP ELECTRIC VEHICLE OWNERS RECHARGE MORE EFFECTIVELY, AFFORDABLY


Ford Electric Vehicles and Microsoft Hohm
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  • Ford and Microsoft are teaming up to use Microsoft Hohm as a platform to help future owners of Ford’s electric vehicles optimize the way they recharge their vehicle and better manage their home’s energy use
  • Microsoft and Ford also will work with utilities and municipalities to help develop an energy ecosystem that manages energy usage as consumer demand for electric vehicles grows
  • Ford’s aggressive electrification plan includes five new vehicles in North America and Europe by 2013; in North America, they include the Transit Connect Electric later this year, Focus Electric in 2011, a plug-in hybrid and two next-generation hybrids in 2012, joining four Ford and Mercury hybrids already on the road and a new Lincoln MKZ Hybrid coming this fall
  • The Focus Electric is expected to be the first Ford electric vehicle to use Hohm
NEW YORK, March 31, 2010 – Today, Ford Motor Company and Microsoft Corp. are leading the way toward a more energy-efficient future by announcing a new solution that will make electric vehicle ownership easier and more affordable for consumers.
The two companies are teaming up to implement the Microsoft Hohm™ energy management application for Ford’s electric vehicles. Ford is the first automaker announcing the use of Hohm, starting with the Focus Electric next year. Hohm will help owners determine when and how
to most efficiently and affordably recharge battery electric (BEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) vehicles. It also should help utility companies manage the added demands of electric vehicles on the electric grid.
“Ford and Microsoft both share a strong commitment to contributing to a better world. Today, we begin the next major step in our working together and leading the way for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability,” said Alan Mulally, Ford Motor Company president and CEO. “For Ford, this is a needed step in the development of the infrastructure that will make electric vehicles viable.”
Both companies agree that effective management of the energy ecosystem is critical for electric vehicles to be successful and for consumer interest to grow. In a recent Accenture survey, 42 percent of consumers said they are likely to buy a hybrid or electric vehicle in the next two years.
Increasing numbers of electric vehicles, however, will have a significant impact on energy demand. That is because the addition of an electric vehicle to a household could effectively double home energy consumption while the vehicle is charging.
Ford and Microsoft agree that making energy management easy and affordable for consumers will be key to the success of electric vehicles in the marketplace as well as in creating a positive environmental impact.
“Electric vehicles will play an important role in the global effort to improve energy efficiency and address the issues of climate change and sustainability,” said Steve Ballmer, Microsoft CEO. “But as the market for electric vehicles expands, it will have a significant impact on home energy consumption and demand across the nation’s energy grid. With Microsoft Hohm, Ford and Microsoft will deliver a solution that will make it easier for car owners to make smart decisions about the most affordable and efficient ways to recharge electric vehicles, while giving utilities better tools for managing the expected changes in energy demand.”
Introducing Hohm to Ford’s electric vehicles supports Ford’s aggressive global electrification plan, which will put five new electrified vehicles on the road in North America and Europe by 2013. In North America, they include the Transit Connect Electric later this year, Focus Electric in 2011, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle and two next-generation hybrids in 2012.
America’s largest domestic hybrid seller, Ford Motor Company today has four hybrids on the road and another coming this year. They include the Ford Fusion Hybrid, Ford Escape Hybrid, Mercury Milan Hybrid and Mercury Mariner Hybrid. Also coming this fall is the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, which is expected to be the most fuel-efficient luxury sedan in America.
Life with electrified vehicles – with full battery electric (BEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) vehicles needing to be recharged daily – will require consumers to change how they think about personal transportation and energy use.
Hohm, an Internet-based service, is designed to help customers avoid unnecessary expense by providing insight into their energy usage patterns and suggesting recommendations to increase conservation. With Ford electric vehicles, Hohm also will help drivers to determine the best time to charge their vehicle. Smart recharging habits will help utility companies understand and better manage the increased demands placed upon the electric grid because of electrified vehicles.
Ford and Microsoft’s participation in the Hohm program builds on the success of their decade-long partnership to provide customers with superior in-car experiences. The Ford SYNC® communications and infotainment system, built on the Windows Embedded Automotive platform, has been installed on more than 2 million Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles since its launch in 2007, helping drivers connect and voice-control their mobile devices while driving.
Microsoft Hohm is available today for free to all U.S. residential energy consumers and has multiple partnerships with utilities and other stakeholders already in place. Ford is the first automaker to join in collaboration with Hohm.
Ford and Microsoft also plan to continue to work with utility partners and municipalities to help further develop the energy ecosystem. Ford’s work includes collaboration with a dozen North American energy companies to road-test a fleet of 21 Ford Escape plug-in hybrid vehicles. The research has accumulated more than 160,000 miles of real-world data, which provided important groundwork for the new Hohm application.
“Rechargeable vehicles represent a new frontier. Their commercialization will take broad-based collaboration and systems solutions,” said Mulally. “Working together, Ford and Microsoft will provide the systems solutions to help facilitate this exciting future.”
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Posted on 31 March 2010 | 12:56 pm
 

2 Million Sync Systems

FORD SYNC HITS 2 MILLION MARK; BOOSTS RESALE VALUE, PURCHASE CONSIDERATION AND CUSTOMER SATISFACTION

  • Ford SYNC® voice-controlled communications and infotainment system installed on 2-millionth vehicle less than a year after hitting the 1 million unit milestone
  • Ford data show the system boosts resale value of SYNC-equipped vehicles by more than $200 over vehicles without the option
  • After receiving SYNC demonstrations, 80 percent of potential customers report it improves their opinion of Ford and 70 percent are more likely to consider purchase
DEARBORN, Mich., March 24, 2010 – The popular Ford SYNC voice-controlled communications and infotainment system has been winning over buyers at its fastest pace ever, with Ford announcing SYNC has now been installed on more than 2 million Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles.
“The success of SYNC proves that customers want to be connected,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president of U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “The speed with which we’ve hit the 2 million mark, the premium SYNC adds at auction, and the improvements in purchase consideration show that it is a true differentiator for us, adding real value for the customer.”
SYNC, built on the Microsoft Windows Embedded Automotive software platform, hit 2 million units only 10 months after Ford delivered its 1-millionth SYNC-equipped vehicle, a 2010 Fusion Hybrid, to Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer. The first SYNC systems were delivered in fall 2007.
“Microsoft and Ford share a common vision when it comes to connecting drivers and passengers to their digital lifestyles,” said Kevin Dallas, general manager of Microsoft’s Windows Embedded Business. “The beauty of building on the Windows Embedded Automotive software platform is that its flexibility has enabled Ford to create new, engaging in-vehicle experiences over the past three years for their consumers to enjoy behind the wheel. We’re excited to see what new roads SYNC explores in the future.”
SYNC boosts resale values
In addition to providing customers with voice control of most entertainment and communications systems in the vehicle, SYNC also pays dividends at resale time.
Ford data analysis shows that SYNC-equipped models of the 2008 Focus are worth more than those without SYNC. After one year in service, the SYNC-equipped models sell for a $240 premium on average. With another year in service added, the SYNC premium is still a significant $200. Ford’s ability to isolate SYNC and attach a resale value to the optional system is based on a company-exclusive statistical VIN-decoding vehicle option residual impact modeling strategy.
The increased transaction price for pre-owned vehicles equipped with SYNC reflects market demand for the feature. In a recent study of Ford SYNC-equipped vehicle owners, one-third of respondents indicated that SYNC played an important role in their purchase decision.
Another reason for the added value is likely due to Ford continuously improving SYNC, year after year, without raising the option price of $395. First launched on 2008 models, including the Focus, Ford has added valuable new capabilities each model year since. For 2009 models, Ford added the 911 Assist™ and Vehicle Health Report applications, at no added cost for the life of the vehicle.
  • 911 Assist can place a call directly to a local 911 emergency operator in the event of an accident involving the activation of an air bag or, on certain vehicles, the emergency fuel pump shutoff. If an occupant cannot respond, SYNC can deliver a recorded message to the 911 service to alert an operator that a crash has occurred.
     
  • Vehicle Health Report gives customers the ability to monitor and manage their vehicle’s health in a single, easy-to-read report and receive important notifications. The report includes diagnostic systems’ statuses, scheduled maintenance, needed repairs from the last dealership visit, and will even alert owners of any open recalls.
In fact, those first 2008 models can be upgraded with these applications with a quick visit to their local dealers, thus adding unexpected value to the vehicle.
For 2010 models, Ford improved SYNC even further with the addition of a GPS receiver integrated into the vehicle, thus creating the opportunity to offer location-based services through the Traffic, Directions & Information (TDI) app. TDI can deliver personalized traffic reports, precise turn-by-turn driving directions and up-to-date information including business listings, news, sports and weather – without the need for a built-in or aftermarket navigation system.
SYNC Traffic, Directions & Information services are free for the first three years of vehicle ownership, and only $60 per year after that, delivering capabilities, features and affordability that rival competitors’ embedded telematics and navigation systems.
SYNC satisfaction remains high
Among Ford customers who have SYNC on their vehicles – and use its voice command features – 87 percent are satisfied with how the system operates, and 88 percent would recommend the purchase of a vehicle with SYNC to others.
So what do SYNC users take advantage of most? Hands-free calling is used daily by two-thirds of study respondents, with 89 percent using the feature at least once a week. More than half use the voice-activated dialing features available through SYNC, helping drivers keep their eyes on the road and hands on the steering wheel.
Use of the Traffic, Directions & Information application is also on the increase. Among users aware of the feature, up to 39 percent are taking advantage of the turn-by-turn directions, local business search and real-time traffic services.
About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 198,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com.
Thoroughbred Ford is Kansas City's Premier Ford Dealer! Why buy a car when you can own a Thoroughbred!

Posted on 25 March 2010 | 8:34 am
 

Ford Quality



Ford Beats Every Auto Company in Quality*
July 24, 2009
It’s a mark of higher quality, and it’s official: Ford had fewer problems than any other auto maker. In a second-quarter study conducted by the RDA Group of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, Ford moved past Toyota, which it has been tied with in the past.*

The survey compares issues per 1,000 vehicles. For the second quarter of 2009, it showed that new Ford, Mercury and Lincoln cars and trucks had 1,185 issues per 1,000 vehicles. Toyota had 1,215 problems and Honda Motor Co. had 1,291.

The study also rates customer satisfaction, and reported that Ford in tied with Toyota in this segment.

“We’ve been tied with Toyota before, but it sure feels better to be on the top!” says Bennie Fowler, Ford’s global head of quality. “We can all be pleased with the progress we have made in quality, even as we face external and internal challenges in a tumultuous climate. Our progress has come as the result of our union partnerships in the U.S., Canada and Mexico, along with the work of dedicated teams in manufacturing, product development, purchasing, marketing, sales, service, legal, IT and others who follow disciplined, standardized processes.”

Reference: Ford Motor Company

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Posted on 17 March 2010 | 4:05 pm