Tag: Ford

  • A tale of Super Trucks and Drones: Ford’s challenge towards all technicians out there!

    2017 Ford F-450 Super Duty It looks as Ford team is proud of their new 2017 F-Series Super Duty Truck and do want everyone to see it rolling. And what did they do? Take the vantage point to the next level. Quite literally.

    What Ford crew is planning, is indeed to take the mighty truck for a walk and the same time record the beast in action with a drone. Their personal signature drone machine. The Super Duty truck will be captured in bird’s-eye view all across rural roads and mountain passes outside Denver. It sounds good to me!

    2017 Ford F-450 Super Duty

    The fresh and challenge-ready machine is by far the most capable Super Duty truck ever created with best-in-class maximum gooseneck towing capacity of 32,500 pounds on the F-450 and class-leading fifth-wheel towing capacity of 27,500 pounds. And let’s not forget about best in class conventional towing of 21,000 pounds.

    SEE ALSO: The more, the better: Ford Performance and the ever evolving F-150 Raptor

    But there is one more reason for this project, along with the show-off. Ford, along with their partner DJI, the world leader in professional-grade drone systems rise the challenge to all technology freaks out there: the idea is to make an adequate software, capable of reaching the requirements of the United Nations Development Program that can inspect emergency zones that are inaccessible to even the most capable, powerful and flexible vehicles ever created.

    2017 Ford F-450 Super Duty

    So, how do you find the challenge? Would you take partin it? Write down your thoughts in the comment section below! And don’t forget to share with us your idea and prizes from the project!

    Source: Ford 

  • The more, the better: Ford Performance and the ever evolving F-150 Raptor

    2017 Ford F-150 Raptor As you already know, Ford F-150 Raptor, believed to be the toughest, smartest and more reliable F-150 created ever, receives a set of FOX shocks: these are exclusively created by Ford and FOX teams to further enhance the flexibility and capability of the machine.

    These are 3.0-inch FOX shocks add base valve piston with lower gas pressure, which results in more comfortable and smooth road ride. Also, the internal bypass in the front and rear shocks comes with nine zones that progressively manage the shock forces and further enhance the off-road stability and driver control. Also, the final zones act as hydraulic bump stops that send fluid through the top of the piston, while, at the same time, the shock is fully compressed. All this means that the Raptor is prevented from bottoming out. Sweet. This also means that the Raptor can maintain smooth and progressive ride control and leads to more confident driver behavior.

    SEE ALSO: Ford Performance team showcases F-150 Raptor’s flexibility [w/video]

    In terms of growth, the FOX shocks add a total of 0.5 inches more, compared to the original ones. This also adds some more volume for increased heat dissipation and fade resistance. According to Ford, this “more” means 40% more. Cool, right? Furthermore, the two additional inches of suspension travel contribute to Raptor’s a total of 13.9 inches of suspension travel distance. Or, in other words, this means about 15% more travel, compared to the original setup.

    And if you are still interested in Raptor’s components functionality, here’s a sweet video for you. We believe you will like it!

    https://youtu.be/GqvYcC6-568

    Source: Ford Performance 

     

  • Eibach competes WRC with the release of 350 HP Ford Focus RS

    Eibach Ford Focus RS side view

    Eibach Ford Focus RS impresses with cool tuning pack and a lot of horsepower

    Eibach has achieved something that even the WRC team hasn’t. We are talking about their latest project, involving the Focus RS. Its 2.3 litre Eco-Boost four-cylinder engine is now capable of 350 HP (257 kW), as the number plate on the vehicle highlights. In other words, this hot compact car has even more horses than the equivalent WRC rally car.

    After the team at Eibach ensured that the horsepower is enough, it then focused on the cornering capability of this Ford, thus enhancing further its performance. Precisely, the tuners fitted Pro-Kit Performance Springs, bringing the Focus RS 20 millimetres closer to the ground. Next to the improved optics, the springs also reduce diving when braking as well as the rolling tendency of the body when cornering is happening.

    SEE ALSO: Eibach Releases a Sportier Ford Mondeo Estate 

    The next step is the installation of the in-house made aluminum Pro-Spacer Wheel Spacers, ensuring there is more stable tracking as well as a masterful appearance. Eibach Anti-Roll-Kit rounds out the suspension package, while the Performance Stabilizer Bars reduce rolling and pitching during cornering.

    Eibach Ford Focus RS rear view

    HJS specialists are also involved in this exclusive project as they offered tuning catalytic converter. It is the perfect addition to any type of sport exhaust system, providing 35 % reduction in exhaust backpressure. OZ and Michelin are also included in the project, offering Pilot Super Sport and the Cup version in the size 235/35 ZR19 on the wheel design 19-inch Leggera HLTs.

    At last, but not least of importance, this road vehicle with 350 HP has received rally livery and as you can see the design is very cool! It is actually the official M-Sport design. Those of you, who already got impressed and are intending to visit the Essen Motor Show (26 November – 4 December) this year, can go see there the car live.

    Source: Eibach

  • Which are top 6 of Europe’s greatest driving roads? Ford answers in exclusive video series [part two]

    Europe's Greatest Driving Roads by fordFord and BP/Castrol have answered which are top 6 of Europe’s greatest driving roads via special video series. We have followed them until number 4 (check out in the link below), and now it is time to reveal the last two tracks that the car journalist Steve Sutcliffe has picked for you. Traveling across Europe can be very exciting, especially when you are on four wheels and well prepared. Since the summer has already started, this is one good way to spend it traveling around Europe, and we promise that it not only would be worth it, but it will leave you with unforgettable memories.

    “Europe’s Greatest Driving Roads”, is a video project, which explores six of the most exclusive pathways that could be found on the Old Continent. If you wonder how the routes were chosen, the answer is – with a ranking by the thrill factor they offer, the road surface, the accessibility and hospitality, the scenery as well as the food and drink after the drive. The lucky one to pick up those six tracks is the well-known car journalist Steve Sutcliffe, who has actually covered nearly 10,000 miles in 12 months to identify the most breath-taking drives! A dream job, isn’t it?

    SEE ALSO: Which are top 6 of Europe’s greatest driving roads? Ford answers in exclusive video series [part one]

    In short, the list features five countries: Romania, France, Germany, Spain (with two routes) and the United Kingdom. And the performance cars included in the videos are delivered by Ford, including the Mustang GT, Focus RS and Fiesta ST. What we have seen so far are the first route in Spain, the one in Romania as well as those in the UK and France. Here are the last two you need to know about.

    GERMANY, B500, Black Forest Highway

    httpv://youtu.be/BFDiQJ0Bmts

    The B500 is 40 km long and it is positioned in the middle of the enchanting Black Forest. Sutcliffe says that these are some of the most challenging kilometers he has ever driven. However, he also proudly confirms that they are worth the effort. In this video, he drives the Ford Focus ST TDCI Estate. You will fall in love with every corner of this great driving road!

    MALLORCA, MA10, Mountain Road

    httpv://youtu.be/0P2k9lRsWOw

    Here, Steve says that it’s not just the road but the history, which makes Mallorca’s MA10 extremely intriguing. The road is fun to ride on, especially if you are in Focus ST like Sutcliffe. It features tunnels, passes across lakes and over rocky bridges. But in the middle of the MA10 sits a 13th century Sanctuary de Lluc monastery, which defines this amazing piece of road.

    These roads are for people who love cars and love driving, but also want to make an amazing road trip. So, what are you waiting for?

    Source: Ford via YouTube

  • Ford Performance team showcases F-150 Raptor’s flexibility [w/video]

    2017 Ford F-150 Raptor Stories about our favorite F-150 Raptor continue! Today we continue with vehicle’s special systems that allow it to tackle down any challenge in any road condition and situation. F-150 Raptor features a total of five terrain modes to fit in every kind of demanding road (or off-road track). So, here’s what you can do with tweaking a bit the buttons in the cabin:

    Normal mode

    As name suggests, this one is the preferred one for everyday on-road duties and is ideal for a comfortable and convenient drive.

    Sport mode

    2017 Ford F-150 Raptor This one shows vehicle’s adrenaline-rush capabilities. You can select this mode for some enhanced on-road driving: what this mode does is to increase the throttle response and to provide some sporty-oriented steering feel. Of course, quicker speed shifting is also present with the Sport mode.

    Weather mode

    This one is divided in two sub-modes.

    Snow/Wet
    If there is some snowy or wet weather issue, this one will make the most out of the situation. Without compromising performance rates or convenience, this one can tackle down numerous snowy or wet tracks, thanks to the engaging of the 4 Auto system. Also, an additional special system makes all the needed calculations and engages just enough amount of throttle, wheel torque and power to deal with any road challenge.

    SEE ALSO: Ford GT ’66 Heritage Edition is here to win some hearts

    Mud/Sand
    In order to deal with muddy or sand-slippery roads, this setting will do the job. The electronic locking differential adopts to the loose and soft ground, while the AdvanceTrac setting aids Raptor to keep its foots on the ground. The mode automatically sets the steering to comfort in order to make it easier to navigate along tight trails and over obstacles.

    Baja

    Baja is a special mode. It is especially created and exclusively fine-tuned to deliver some high-speed desert runs. Baja mode engages F-150’s 4 High setting and programs the AdvanceTrac to the least intrusive setting. At the same time the throttle map is set for more linear power and tweaks the engine response in a sort of hardcore off-road behavior. Gearbox delivers quick shifts and holds gears longer: this helps the vehicle to stay in its power band.

    Rock Crawl

    2017 Ford F-150 Raptor

    Last, but not least, this one is especially created for intense off-road driving and rock climbing at low speed. When engaged, this mode sets vehicle’s settings to 4 Low and at the same time the electronic locking differential is engaged, while the AdvanceTrac is set to least intrucive mode for optimum rock-climbing capability. Also, the front camera allows driver to see what’s ahead of the truck and can be kept on at speeds up to 15mph.

    Definitely a capable machine, Raptor continues Ford Performance’s tradition to deliver customers highest performance rates and adequate response to road’s demands.

    https://youtu.be/EAsR42Oa84s

    Source: Ford Performance 

    Video Source: Youtube

    Channel Source: Ford Performance 

  • AEB system: is it that popular and important as they want us to see it?

    2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe New car sales researches revealed what majority of people prefer when it comes to buying a new vehicle. Analyzed by independent researchers, results show that buyers mainly prefer cars with more safety features, but for some reason not everyone is into the Autonomous Emergency Braking. Interesting.

    However, good thing is to know that people are heading towards safety, instead of some overall useless hi-tech tweaks, right? However, results show some mixed opinions as it comes to standard safety equipment. Although the first vehicles in the rank have great safety suites, also in the top 3 is the Vauxhall Corsa: a neat vehicle, but with twice as less safety stuff, compared with the leader in the list: the C-Class.

    SEE ALSO: Mercedes G500 becomes a stylish icon handcrafted by Carbon Motors

    However, one of the most handy and reliable systems, the Autonomous Emergency Braking is available with all of the list with most popular cars. Some brands include it as a part of the standard equipment, others prefer to gear it optionally – with client’s personal preferences.

    So, what are people into? Here’s the full list:

    Mercedes-Benz C-Class
    AEB is named Collision Prevention Assist Plus and is part of the standard equipment.

    Volkswagen Golf
    The good ol’ Golf lineup incorporates the system to almost all of its models as a part of the standard equipment. Fun thing is that VW does not offer AEB as an extra.

    Nissan Qashqai
    This one also incorporates the AEB system to almost all vehicles in the lineup, but also offers it as an additional feature.

    Ford Focus
    Coming by the name of Active City Stop, the system is fitted to surprisingly low number of vehicle models, but the good news is that Ford team offers it as a standalone feature for reasonable pricing.

    Vauxhall Astra
    The trustworthy Astra also appears to sort of not like the AEB: the vehicles, equipped with this system are as low as 34% of the whole range. Good thing is that AEB is optionally available.

    MINI
    The system also comes as optional extra and is simply named  Driving Assistant.

    VW Polo
    Named City Emergency Braking, the AEB is available only as a part of the optional “ACC” pack.

    Ford Fiesta
    The Fiesta also does not incorporate the system as part of the standard pack and offers it as a standalone purchase.

    Vauxhall Mokka
    Although popular and reliable, the whole lineup does not feature AEB even as a standard feature.

    Vauxhall Corsa
    Just like the Mokka, Corsa lineup tends to not like the AEB: it is not available even as optional feature.

    Source: Thatcham

  • Ford GT under extensive wind tunnel testing before official release [w/video]

    2017 Ford GT front and side view

    Ford is franticly preparing to release the best car in its range

    Ford GT is making WOWs every time it appears, be it even on your computer screen. By the way, its development continues unabated, and everyone is impatiently expecting to see the market debut of the carbon fiber supercar before the end of this year. In other words, the expectations are high and Ford is really making great efforts not to disappoint fans and future customers. Ford GT will probably be the best car in company’s line-up, because it is an example which features the best of Ford: efficient EcoBoost engines, light-weight, aerodynamics, functional design and active airflow management.

    The video below shows company’s engineering supervisor, Nick Terzes, who takes us behind the scenes. The scenery is shot in the Wind Tunnel 8 in Allen Park, Michigan, and this is exactly where the Ford GT pre-production prototype is currently undergoing wind tunnel testing.

    SEE ALSO: 6,506 potential customers get the chance to own the EcoBoost-powered Ford GT 

    What happens in the footage below? It previews one of the multiple sessions to prove out the extensive computer aided aerodynamic models with physical wind tunnel data. The airspeed approach is 125 mph (200 km/h). Terzes says that the “prime reason we come to the tunnel is to get the actual physical data on the vehicle” as well as to look at its “interior wind-noise acoustics, and the aerodynamics.”

    The clip displays the active rear wing, which is a substantial part of a suite of active aerodynamic features on the 2017 Ford GT. It not only improves performance, but also plays crucial role in the stability and efficiency.

    Terzes also reveals some important and interesting facts: “One of the great things about this car, as dynamic and beautiful as the design is, every single opening has a purpose on the car. So If you see a large grille, if you see a scoop, it’s wasn’t just put there to look good. It was put there because it has a function.”

    See for yourself!

    Source: Ford 

  • 2017 Ford F-150 gets 10-speed automatic for better torque results

    2017 Ford F-150 front view

    Ford adds second-gen 3.5-liter EcoBoost and 10-speed automatic to the options list

    2017 Ford F-150 goes on sale this fall. The leader in the truck segment will amaze its new customers with the various innovations and exceptional torque delivery. By the way, the newest variant of the F-150 is going to offer segment-leading torque, thanks to the new 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine under its hood. The other substantial reason for the enhanced torque rating is the addition of the 10-speed automatic transmission.

    In its second generation, the 3.5-liter EcoBoost unit generates an extra of almost 70 Newton meters or 50 lb.-ft. of peak torque, if compared with the first-generation engine. The result is a total of 637 Nm (470 lb-ft). This number is of significance, because it beats all diesel- and gasoline-powered competitors, including some of the V8 engines on the market. What is more, the horses have been also improved and now they are 375 hp, which is an addition of 10 hp.

    SEE ALSO: 2017 Ford Raptor gets a neat set of BFGoodrich tires. The result? Check for yourself! [w/video]

    To make the engine more capable of its new torque, Ford engineers have developed an exclusive 10-speed automatic transmission, which debuts on the 2017 F-150. Unfortunately, it comes at an extra cost, because Ford didn’t seem to wish to make it standard.

    However, in this combination, the powertrain delivers better acceleration and performance, better low-end and peak engine performance, as well as more capability when it comes to hauling heavy payloads and towing heavy trailers.

    Obviously, Ford has taken advantage of the strong sides of 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine and first-generation 3.5-liter EcoBoost, and has developed something exceptional. We do wait impatiently for the first customer’s reviews though.

    2017 Ford F-150 new engine and traansmission

    Source: Ford

  • Silver King Edition Ford Mustang commemorates 80th Anniversary of Richard Petty

    King Edition Ford Mustang by Petty's Garage first sketchThe King Edition Mustang is here and it looks hot as hell! Actually we have received the first sketch of an upcoming version of the famous pony car, which is going to be created by Petty’s Garage in a very limited run. The vehicle appears after a continued partnership with Ford Motor Company for an exclusively 500 “King Edition” Ford Mustang GT model. This makes the third year in a row, that both companies join forces to build these cool Mustang King Editions.

    However, there is something very special about the 2017 model year lineup: it is going to have a limited run of 43 examples, all celebrating the 80th birthday of “The King” Richard Petty. Respect for so much years of hard and successful work!

    SEE ALSO: Petty’s Garage Ford Mustang GT to be Auctioned with Proceeds Going to Veterans 

    The silver design that we see on the sketch mimics the livery of the famous No.43 raced in 1996. In addition, the unique muscle car will be powered by the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, which Petty says that will be the most radical EcoBoost to be ever offered on the market. Unmatched in speed and performance, this is what we are promised, precisely – up to 825 horsepower.

    What is more, this Mustang will also get some extra support for its on-road representation, namely: race spoiler and signature center exhaust system. For the appearance of the car, Petty’s Garage have prepared custom paint and vinyl strip packages as well as full-line of suspension components, brakes, wheels and tires.

    2017 King Edition Ford Mustang by Petty’s Garage has a starting price of $35,000 USD.

    Source: Petty’s Garage

  • Ford GT ’66 Heritage Edition is here to win some hearts

    2017 Ford GT ’66 Heritage Edition side viewPays Tribute to Historic Livery on 1966 Le Mans Winner 

    Ford GT ’66 Heritage Edition is not just another limited Ford. It comes to honor, the GT40 Mark II car, which made historic victories at Le Mans with drivers Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon. The year of course was 1966.

    Making the long story short, this car is paying tribute to the GT40 Mart II by sporting its livery. But what makes the new model really exclusive is the fact that it will be strictly limited to production in 2017 model year only, and it will be created in limited quantities.

    In short, the ’66 Heritage Edition has a Shadow Black exterior. It can be chosen in either gloss or matte finish. The contrasting point is made by the silver stripes that run in the middle of its body, while the pint of salt and pepper is added by the exposed carbon fiber package.

    SEE ALSO: The lightweight 2016 Ford GT becomes even lighter: there are carbon-fiber wheels already available 

    Frozen White hood and door graphics are the other elements of the exterior that make it fresh and at the same time remind us about the historical event. Running on 20-inch one-piece forged alloys in a gold satin clear-coat with black lug nuts, the car truly stands out among its siblings and more importantly – among other cars on the road.

    2017 Ford GT ’66 Heritage Edition interior

    On the inside, this Ford GT boasts carbon-fiber seats in Ebony leather with pillowed inserts and plow-through stitching. The same material has been used for the instrument panel, pillars and headliner. Gold appliqués are featured on the instrument panel, the seat’s X-brace and shift paddles. We see the Ford GT logo on the seats’ head restraints and the steering wheel. By the way, speaking of the steering wheel, it too has been leather-wrapped, just like the one in the 1966 race car. Another similarity is that the seat belts featuring a unique blue webbing.

    At last, to highlight the uniqueness of the GT ’66 Heritage Edition, Ford added serialized identification plate (#2) on the interior door, exposed matte carbon fiber door sills, air pods and center console.

    As some may say, GT40 Mark II race car is actually the true predecessor of the Ford GT. What do you think?

    Source: Ford 

  • Mondeo ST-Line: sporty, aggressive and confident. We like it.

    2016 Ford Mondeo ST-LineFord reveals the sporty Mondeo ST-Line at the 2016 Goodwood Festival of Speed: the latest addition to the ST-Line shows neat styling and sporty spirit. Thanks to the aid of Ford Performance designers and engineers, we see a rather beautiful vehicle: all  well-known Ford lines are present, along with some small tweaks and additions. And in terms of the drivetrains, fans will be pleased to know that the Mondeo ST-Line features some neat additions.

    Joining the Fiesta ST-Line and Focus ST-Line, the Mondeo comes in five-door and estate body styles and will grant buyers with glossy exterior components, LED daytime running lights, rectangular fog lamps and distinctive 18- or 19-inch alloys in glossy black diffuser-style insert.

    2016 Ford Mondeo ST-Line

    We have to admit that the team did a great job with the exterior: what we see is a confidently standing vehicle with vast muscles and sporty appearance. Distinctive and straight lines get the tone for sporty experience, while the front face screams “look out, you are dealing with a badass!”. Or, in other words, we like the design.

    In terms of power and performance, the setup tries to meet name’s requirements: the TDCi power unit has an output of 150hp (111kW) and can be paired to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed PowerShift automatic that comes with paddle shifters. Sweet.

    SEE ALSO: Hennessey Ford Mustang HPE800 is the hardest and most potent pony car so far

    The drivetrain technology delivers smooth transition of torque between all of the four wheels and provides better grip and footing in slippery conditions. Also neat feature is the torque delivery between wheels and the speed of doing it: under 20 milliseconds.

    2016 Ford Mondeo ST-Line

    So far we do like the sporty Mondeo. But it also has to prove itself worthy through time. What do you think?

    Source: Ford 

  • Hennessey Ford Mustang HPE800 is the hardest and most potent pony car so far

    Hennessey Ford Mustang HPE800 front viewHennessey Performance is celebrating its 25th anniversary with the limited edition model

    It is all about horsepower when it comes to Hennessey Performance. These guys do not need any introduction or whatsoever. They are actually making 25 years of thriving and success (Viper is jealous now) and to commemorate this, they have created a really special Mustang series. Let’s not exaggerate things and say that this is only a visual update to what they have achieved so far with their latest Mustang HPE800.

    What do we have underneath the hood of the ‘Stang? A supercharged unit of the powerful 5.0L V8 engine. How much power does it deliver? It is now capable of way more horses than the stock ones, precisely: 804 bhp (591 kW) at 7,000 rpm and 878 Nm (648 lb-ft) of torque at 4,400 rpm.

    SEE ALSO: Which is World’s Fastest Convertible? [w/video] 

    Performance-wise, the acceleration time to 60 mph from standstill happens within an instant. Well, a little bit more – just in 3.1 seconds, while the quarter mile is reached in 10.7 seconds. The top speed now goes beyond 207.9 mph.

    Hennessey Ford Mustang HPE800 rear view

    There are also some significant updates that help the car extract as much power as possible and they are made to the fuel and intake system. The fuel pump as well as the injectors, the custom intake ducts have all been subjected to an upgrade.

    Visual updates are probably the most exclusive part of this project, since they make it stand out and also show that it is an anniversary edition. A lot of carbon fiber has been involved here – the precious material has been used for the covers, front splitter, side sills and rear lip spoiler. Riding on beautiful 20-inch H10 alloys mated with Michelins, this Mustang is ready to conquer mountains and any tough road in general. A lot of badging is showing the significance of the here presented anniversary muscle car.

    Hennessey Ford Mustang HPE800 25th Anniversary Edition will be produced in only 25 examples. So if you want one, you’d better hurry. I’m definitely counting my money.

    Source: Hennessey Performance