Ford – Page 43 – Automobiles Review

Ford Mustang, the Konquistador by Reifen Koch

Reifen Coch is yet another German based company that customizes performance cars and such. The target car here however is not at all German. The name they gave their product is the “Konquistador” and it is actually an American icon – a Ford Mustang V. It’s “V” for “Fifth generation” but it might as well be for V8 as this untamed pony moves about with a V8 4.6 liter 309 kW heart.

So not much room for improvement in the engine compartment. No worries, as Reifen Coch have focused on other aspects of customizing. A flamboyant Cervini-Bodykit has been installed which has holes on the back of the side skirts. These wholes are for the custom made exhaust system. Yes, the Konquistador has side exhaust pipes – a kid’s dream come true. The suspension boasts KW-coilovers with electrically lifting axles and an HLS (Hydraulic Lift System) Kit. The brakes too have been replaced with some “Brembos”.

However, it would seem that Reifen Coch are most satisfied with what they have done to the wheels – 9Jx20H2 Gotham rims at the front and 11Jx20H2 of the same brand at the back. The wrapping comes in the form of four Dunlop tires in sizes 265/35R20 and 305/30R20, front and back respectively.

So, the Konquistador then? A keeper or a skipper?

Source: Miranda Media

March 16, 2012

EcoBoost for the All-new Ford Escape

The all-new Ford Escape will pamper itself with a clever EcoBoost engine. It develops 237 horsepower and 250 lb.-ft. of torque and provides 3,500 pounds of towing capability.

Smaller is better these days. Especially when we take into account the soaring gas prices. That’s why, as an alternative to the 3.0-liter V6 engine in the current Escape, the 2.0 liter EcoBoost seems the logical choice.

Escape’s greater towing capability is roughly equal to two jet skis or a snowmobile on a trailer. And chances are that you are going to link a trailer behind, even if it is only to make use of Ford’s trailer sway control.

Besides the 2.0 EcoBoost, there will be a 1.6 liter unit of the same line that returns 177 horsepower and lastly, a 2.5 naturally aspirated engine with a 171 horsepower ability. All three engines are mated to a fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmission. Another good thing for the economy will be the electric power-assist steering.

Interested? Well, the all-new Escape arrives at showrooms sometimes later this spring. Until then, we’ll have to wait and read frugal figures.

Source: Ford

March 15, 2012

Ford B-MAX Safety Tech

Avoiding minor city incidents and bumps one Ford B-Max at a time. It’s a collision prevention system first in a compact Ford vehicle. Whether you are trailing behind someone in traffic while being rather absent minded or you are about to have an unavoidable crash, the company’s Active City Stop will be there for you to help out.

Each year more than half-a-million people are injured in car crashes in cities in the UK, France, Germany, Italy and Spain alone. Supposedly, the Active City Stop can be useful in one out of eight of these incidents thus reducing the number significantly.

“Low speed front to rear end collisions are one of the most common accidents in urban traffic,” said Roland Schaefer, safety analyst, Ford of Europe. “They can happen at traffic lights, intersections, roundabouts and other stop-start driving situations. You don’t have to be travelling fast to get injured. Even at speeds of just 15 km/h you can suffer soft tissue neck injury.”

We saw the system first last year in the Ford Focus. It constantly scans the road ahead for obstacles and decides whether or not to apply the breaks when needed. The B-Max can go from 15 km/h to a full stop on its own. At the same time, collisions happening within the 30 km/h range will be greatly relieved.

The subcompact MPV is also equipped with Ford’s Hill Launch Assist that prevents you from rolling back upon departure up a slope. A rear view camera and an overall compact structure with a great turning circle make it easy for parking as well. So, car for novice drivers or is that the future? According to Joerg Beyer, Ford Vehicle Line Director, this is the 21 century way.

“Features such as Active City Stop are new to this sector. These technologies, coupled with “B-Max‘s compact chassis, and tight turning circle supported by carefully tuned electronic power-assisted steering, enable B-Max to be far greater prepared for the demands of even the most congested city.” he comments.

Source: Ford

March 14, 2012

2013 Ford Super Duty Platinum

Ford has announced the F-Series Super Duty Platinum.

“The F-Series Super Duty Platinum is the latest expression of Built Ford Tough truck luxury,” commented Brian Rathsburg, F-Series Super Duty Marketing manager.

“It has a distinct appearance and a long list of features to deliver a superior experience. Along with that, it has all of the capability F-Series trucks are famous for.”, he added.

It is available only in the Super Duty crew cab and can be ordered as an F-250, F-350 or F-450 pickup. The engine range includes a 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel engine or the 6.2 liter V8 gas engine.

The Platinum series makes a bold statement with a grille that features a satin chrome surround highlighted by perforated mesh inside. The updated grille is enhanced by a monochromatic bumper and chrome tow hooks.

The exterior boasts a lot of chrome elements including the door handles, mirror caps, running boards and exhaust tip.

The boxside on both sides of the truck sports the “Platinum” name in chrome letters and the tailgate is trimmed with a satin chrome appliqué, similar to the one used on the F-150 Platinum. Twenty-inch polished-aluminum wheels with painted black inserts round out the stunning exterior design of the Super Duty Platinum.

The interior showcases luxury in the form of unique wood grain appliqués. The steering wheel is heated and leather-wrapped, with genuine wood accents. The instrument panel, center stack and door trims are wrapped in premium wood grain. A new storage area on top of the dash includes two USB ports, audio-video connections, SD card slot and a 12-volt charging port for cell phones and other digital devices.

The driver’s seat has 10-way power-adjustable seating and both captain’s chairs are upholstered with softer, premium leather, which is also used on the armrests and console. Other evidence of fine craftsmanship includes the seats and floor mats, which feature the embroidered “Platinum” logo.

Other standard features include:

SYNC with MyFord Touch
Navigation System
Power-adjustable pedals
Rear view camera
Remote Start System
Universal garage door opener
Power-telescoping mirrors

Super Duty Platinum is available in Ruby Red, Kodiak Brown, Tuxedo Black, Ingot Silver and White Platinum. Interior color offerings include Pecan and Midnight Black. Another new exterior color, Blue Jean Metallic, will be available for Super Duty models other than Platinum.

Unique to Ford F-Series, designers have optimized the physical interface for MyFord Touch to accommodate truck users who may be wearing work gloves by providing easy access to climate controls and audio presets on the center stack. For video of MyFord Touch in Super Duty, click here.

The latest example of F-Series leadership in truck design, innovation and technology can be found in the 2013 Super Duty Platinum, available later this year.

Source: Ford

March 9, 2012

2013 Ford Fiesta ST at Geneva

Here’s a preview of Ford’s new Fiesta ST. It’s at Geneva at the moment with plans to go on sale in the UK early next year. It has been four years since the last Fiesta ST and recently the fan base has started feeling uneasy. Now everyone can calm down as this little fellow here is meet their needs.

A four year gap between the two models can only mean one thing: massive improvements in terms of performance. The numbers speak for themselves – 180PS 1.6-litre EcoBoost, 240Nm of torque, 0-62mph in under seven seconds, and top speed of more than 136mph. All the while, CO2 emissions are down by 20 percent in comparison to the old ST.

Hopefully the new Fiesta will have the handling to match the performance. The guys at Team RS have put a lot of their WRC know how in use while working on the chassis which leaves the ST 15 mm lower than a standard Fiesta. The car’s Torque Vectoring Control system and three Electronic Stability Control modes have all been rigorously developed and tested at the Nurburgring.

Inside, Recaro sports seats will provide support for the enthusiastic drive for the first time in a Ford Fiesta. There’s something for the novice drivers as well – the car will be fitted with Ford’s MyKey solution which can limit the car’s power and speed to a certain degree thus effectively preventing your kids to end up in a ditch.

The Fiesta ST is sure to come to Europe, but Ford are considering other markets as well:

“We’re delighted to be bringing a new generation Fiesta ST to our European enthusiasts in 2013 and we’ll have more to say about our plans for other markets in the near future,” said Jost Capito, Ford’s director of Global Performance Vehicles.

Fingers crossed.

Source: Ford

March 6, 2012

All-New Ford Fiesta PowerShift Automatic in India

Ford are going to delight the Indian market with a Fiesta that has a state of the art PowerShift automatic gearbox – a dual clutch system that helps with frugality and bets on efficiency and reliability. Ford are in fact so proud of it that they have placed a ‘seal-for-life‘ on it, rendering maintenance unnecessary… or impossible. Anyway. Ford argue that one does not need to change the fluids inside for 10 years or 240 000 km. A 2 year/100 000 km warranty is also provided.

The box can be found in two Fiesta trims – Style and Titanium+. The former will be generously equipped with enough technology such as auto AC, a leather steering wheel and some fog lights. The Titanium+ gets all of that plus leather seats, alloy wheels, park assist and electronically folding wing mirrors.

Power will come from an India special 1.5 L Ti-VCT engine unit that is fully compliant with the country’s emission standards. Working together with the lightweight (no torque-converters and oil sumps inside) PowerShift box, that engine will return around 38 mpg – A class leading fuel economy (the Fiesta in India is a sedan).

Other pearls of the Fiesta include the driver aids and safety features. It’s got Cruise Control, Hill-Assist and Grade-Assist (auto descent from a hill on a constant, comfortable speed), ABS, dual airbags and a thing called Creep Function. That sounds a bit disturbing but actually what it is, is a system that allows the car to move slowly without much effort from the driver when in traffic jam.

The car is sound, soundproof, rigid, compact yet spacious, technologically advanced and now, with the addition of the PowerShift automatic, it is also very easy to live with. Ideal for everyday life in India? Why not?

Source: Ford

February 28, 2012

2012 Ford B-MAX features the new SYNC technology

The so strongly awaited and anticipated new 2012 Ford B-MAX will feature class-leading technology, which will make this small family car a powerful one. Ford B-MAX makes its first public appearance at a key technology event: the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.

The reason for this is featured in the vehicle new SYNC technology: a voice-activated in-car connectivity system that takes the integration of mobile devices, voice control and convenience to a new level with extensive device compatibility and voice command in diverse languages. Moreover, the new SYNC technology can seamlessly connect to mobile devices various means: it not only includes Bluetooth, an iPod and flash drive compatible USB connection but also brings a potentially lifesaving feature in Emergency Assistance. This is the only feature of its sort which is designed to respond to a crash by using the customer’s connected mobile phone to call the emergency services directly. Ford also expects to have over 3.5 million SYNC-enabled vehicles on the roads of Europe by 2015.

The new version of the B-MAX features the Ford Easy Access Door System which is unique for the car and integrates central body pillars into the hinged front doors and sliding rear doors to create large, unobstructed openings on either side of the car. Moreover, the B-MAX engine range delivers 15 per cent more economical motoring with class-leading fuel economy and CO2 emissions available on both the 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine and 1.6-litre TDCi diesel engine.

The firs one can develop 120PS (88 kW) and offering 114g/km CO2 emissions and fuel economy of 4.9l/100km (57.6mpg. Furthermore, Torque Vectoring Control, will improve driving dynamics and cornering control. On the other hand, the Active City Stop will help drivers avoid low-speed collisions using a forward-facing infra-red camera to detect objects in front of the car and automatically apply the brakes in case the driver fails to respond. The 2012 Ford B-MAX will make its world debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in early March and later this year will go on sale in Europe.

2012 Ford B-MAX Compact Multi-Activity Vehicle

Source: Ford

February 27, 2012

Ford Evos Concept includes future technology experience

The exciting Ford Evos Concept was firstly unveiled to the public at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. It shows how technology can significantly improve the driving experience for each customer. It is based on connectivity between the vehicle and the driver’s “personal cloud” of information. Furthermore it includes technology vision for enriched customer experience with the means of personalization, adaptation and creativity. In addition Evos Concept is designed around a technology experience which embraces a new generation of driver interaction and awareness which is currently under development in the Ford Research and Innovation laboratories. With information from the drivers’ personal cloud, the vehicle can provide the same connected lifestyle the driver experiences at home or office. The car knows the driver, and automatically adapts handling, steering and engine controls to deliver an exceptionally dynamic driving experience. Moreover, Ford researchers are focusing in this area in order to deliver on four key customer benefits: personalization, seamless enhancement of the driving experience, looking after the driver’s well-being and delivering smart electrified powertrain optimization. The technology used in the cehicle draws from a detailed understanding of the driver’s preferences and driving habits. Hence, the Ford Evos Concept can easily combine this personal information with additional data from the cloud, such as the driver’s work schedule and local traffic or weather conditions. This information provides a personalized and seamless experience as the driver transitions in and out of the car. In addition, it could automatically play the same music or news program that was just streaming at home, or heat or cool the interior to an ideal temperature before the driver gets in without having to be requested by predicting departure time based on his calendar.

What about the efforts put to enhance the driving experience? The current technology requires vehicle chassis settings to be defined based upon the abilities and tastes of a cross-section of drivers and the topography of typical roads. The concept predicts tuning handling and performance to the road that is ahead and the specific individual behind the wheel. More importantly it has the ability to learn driver’s habits and capabilities and overlay map and weather data sourced from the cloud to adjust powertrain, steering, suspension and braking systems for optimum enjoyment, comfort and safety. Undeniably, all this takes driving experience to a new level. In addition, Ford researchers have already developed technologies focused on driver wellness. What I mean here is that they have developed for example, technologies which can monitor the heart-rate of the driver. With a seamless connection to the cloud, the Ford Evos Concept monitors the physical state and workload of the driver and adjusts the driving experience accordingly. The Ford Evos Concept also includes advanced air quality sensors and filtration systems to help allergy sufferers. It is location aware: it can access air quality data from the cloud and suggest a healthier route to the destination.

Completing the vision for the Ford Evos Concept is a state-of-the-art lithium-ion plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain. Ford ‘powersplit’ hybrid architecture allows the electric motor and petrol engine to work together or separately to maximize efficiency. Of course, the “cloud” connectivity would offer choices to improve the performance and efficiency by selecting the optimum combination of powertrain modes for any given journey. Being a “cloud”-optimized powertrain, it will know when is the best time to save energy and when is the best time to switch modes. For this purpose it uses the information it has about the travel route, the emission zone restrictions and current weather conditions.

Another important fact about the Ford Evos Concept is that it was especially developed to introduce the new Ford design direction. It includes key design elements which will be applied to forthcoming Ford vehicles. In particular, the Ford Evos Concept was conceived as a dramatic fastback concept. It combines striking new profile with innovative proportions. A lot of attention has been put on the lines of the body, which conceal a unique new format, with a four-door, four-seat layout. This results in dynamic appearance with surprising practicality. Reflecting the exterior, the interior of the Ford Evos Concept is built around the driver, and is innovative and brings more style to the cockpit. In this way the driving pleasure will be with a stylish and 100% secured.

Source: Ford

February 27, 2012

New Morgan Roadster 3.7

Morgans have always been about the nostalgic spirit of classical roadsters and coupes. That is why almost all of the current Morgan cars look like as if they have been stolen from a collector’s garage. They are for people who would love to take a ride around the country side in a real time machine. No, really, they can go fast enough to throw you back to the past because underneath the hood one won’t find a grandfather’s clock but a masterful modern engine. The Morgan Roadster is no exception from that rule – techy performance concealed in an old-school shell.

Power comes from a Ford 3.7 Cyclone V6 engine that develops 280 hp at 6000rpm and 352 Nm of torque. A Ford six speed manual gearbox on the other hand, crunches those numbers into sheer force on the tarmac. Keeping in mind that this car weights only 950 kg, the engine propels it to 60mph from a stand still in just 5.5 seconds. Mighty brisk! That is why the suspension is also clever enough to keep the car on the road – there’s a limited slip differential with cone drive for that extra grip and sideways buffoonery.

Inside, leather welcomes you to strap yourself in and enjoy the dashboard blend of digital and analogue dials – a surreal combination of both worlds. Most of the instruments are framed in woods which is just an example of how exotic this car really is. The convertible roof, although not automatic, is easy to install and creates a warm and private atmosphere.

Source: Morgan

February 23, 2012

Ford Tourneo Custom Concept to debut at 2012 Geneva Motor Show

Ford Tourneo Custom Concept will be previewed for the first time in the world at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March. It will bring more dynamism, new level of energy and style. Tourneo Custom Concept has a dramatic new look that will appeal to customers seeking style, functionality and space. In addition, the Tourneo Custom Concept features a wide variety of exciting new features that give the vehicle strong car-like appeal. For example, the vehicle includes all-new interior design with driver-focused cockpit, a luxurious, fully trimmed cabin which has the ambience and high-quality materials of a modern multi-seat saloon car. The concept vehicle also features a number of smart innovations including multi-adjustable and removable rear seating, advanced SYNC voice-activated, in-car connectivity system and the latest Ford low-CO2 ECOnetic Technologies.

Moreover, the new Ford Tourneo Custom Concept carries an advanced, streamlined appearance with sportier stance, bold rising shoulder line and flush glazing. The Signature Kinetic Design features help give the Tourneo Custom Concept its unique character, including the bold trapezoidal grille, strong and muscular shoulder line, prominent wheel lips and window lines with the distinctive kick at the rear. Furthermore, additional improvements are delivered by number of stylish details from the chrome grille surround and striking LED lighting on the front-end, to the dynamic looks of the 18-inch alloy wheels. The interior is all-new. Moreover, it is luxurious and car-like. The stylish instrument panel is orientated around the driver, and features technologies which are closely-related to those in Ford’s car range. The interior follows the same Kinetic Design approach as well. Passengers in the rear are surrounded by space and luxury, with a fully-trimmed cabin that incorporates bold Kinetic Design detailing on the side panels which are linked to the graphical themes from the front. Additionally, the rear seats carry completely new design, and can be easily folded into multiple configurations, or even removed completely. This unique luxurious and spacious feel of the interior is further improved by an exclusive two-tone color scheme, featuring hand-stitched leather seats with attractive cloth inserts.

Some smart and innovative features included on the Ford Tourneo Custom Concept are: ECOnetic Technologies – Ford’s advanced low-CO2 features including Auto-Start-Stop and Smart Regenerative Charging; SYNC voice-activated, in-car connectivity system – enables mobile phones and music players to be connected to the vehicle, and controlled using voice control; Emergency Assistance – enabled by SYNC, assisting occupants to contact the Emergency Services in the event of an accident, providing vehicle location information; Advanced restraint system – including driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags; Rear-view camera – integrated into the rear view mirror; Lane Departure Warning and Driver Alert.

Furthermore the new concept vehicle offers outstanding performance and fuel economy. It is powered by a further improved 155 PS (114 kW) version of Ford’s 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine family. The Tourneo Custom Concept is based on a new Ford global platform. The aim of the new design philosophy is to deliver deliver car-like dynamics, including agile, responsive handling, enhanced ride comfort and reduced noise-levels.

The Tourneo Custom Concept is a forerunner of the arrival of a completely new generation of Ford commercial vehicles, which full range of models will be revealed during 2012. The new family range will be powered by enhanced versions of the new 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine and has Auto-Stop-Start technology fitted as standard. In this way Ford is targeting best-in-class fuel economy. Three power ratings will be available: 100 PS (74 kW), 125 PS (92 kW) and 155 PS (114 kW). All versions are paired with a six-speed manual transmission and feature front-wheel drive.

Source: Ford

February 22, 2012

2012 Ford B-MAX to Debut at Mobile World Congress

Ford Motor Company executive chairman Bill Ford will unveil for the first time the all-new 2012 Ford B-MAX on 27^th of February at the 2012 Mobile World Congress, which takes place in Barcelona. Ford actually is going to be the first manufacturer, which will present a car for the first time at the leading mobile industry event. In addition, the there will be also announced significant new technologies for Europe, which will be featured for the first time in the new B-MAX. As Ford promises, these innovations, will make the vehicle one of the continent’s most technologically advanced small cars. Bill Ford also will become the first automotive leader who will make a keynote speech at MWC. There, he will discuss the company’s vision for mobility in the future, which has the aim to explore the potential for mobile technology and vehicles to play more integrated roles. B-MAX will raise the bar for small vehicles in Europe, with the combination of technology and premium engineering into a compact frame vehicle. Later this year, on 6^th of March at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally will introduce the B-MAX to the automotive world.

B-MAX is a promising new vehicle, which will bring a unique Easy Access Door System with central body pillars integrated into the sliding rear doors to provide unrivalled access for passengers and luggage. Moreover, it will be powered by a versatile engine range, which will include the new 1.0-litre 120PS EcoBoost petrol engine and the 1.6-litre TDCi diesel engine. Both are expected to offer class-leading fuel economy and CO₂ emissions.

2012 Ford B-MAX with unique Easy Access Door System

Source: Ford

February 14, 2012

2012 Ford B-MAX’s Easy Access Door System

2012 Ford B-MAX features unique Easy Access Door System which will bring to its customers unrivalled ease of access. In particular it integrates the central body pillars into the doors of its multi-activity vehicle and thus creating 1.5-metre wide unobstructed openings on either side of the car. The development of the concept, the designers spent several days observing drivers in their daily routine. Hence, they got the understanding, what exactly will customers really want from a compact car. Engineers then start producing a safe and practical vehicle which is in alliance with those needs. What they did is that they moved the high-strength body-structure from the central body pillars and integrated it directly into the doors. This ensures high level of crash protection in the event of a side impact. Up to five times the strength of conventional mild steel is delivered through special ultra-high-strength steel. This is used in key parts of the body and doors, thus creating an extremely strong and stiff structure without adding extra weight.

In addition the process involved intense testing and analysis at every stage. More than 1,000 detailed computer simulations were conducted over three years to optimize side impact crash performance. In addition, the B-MAX interior is packed with features which take optimal advantage of the new Easy Access Door System. The rear seats and the front passenger seat, for instance, can be folded flat. In this way it creates a large, convenient load platform, which can accommodate everything from bicycles to flat-pack furniture.

The All-New Ford B-MAX will make its first appearance in Geneva next month. Eventually, it will go for sale later this year.

Source: Ford

February 10, 2012

Tag: Ford