Carl Edwards stopped by the North American International Auto Show this week and enjoyed the dazzling reveal of the 2013 Ford Fusion. And he likes what he saw. The 2013 Fusion is the base for the future NASCAR Ford Sprint Cup car. Here’s a video of Carl and the new Fusion and a link to the Facebook chat he conducted with Ford Racing fans from the show. Enjoy.
DEARBORN – The all-new, gasoline-free Ford Focus Electric is the company’s first-ever all-electric passenger car – a zero-CO2-emissions version of Ford’s popular small car expected to be the first of its kind to achieve the equivalent of a 100 miles per gallon fuel efficiency rating with seating for five.
Focus Electric is the flagship of Ford’s transformed lineup, one-third of which will feature a model with 40 mpg or more in 2012, building on the company’s commitment to give fuel-efficiency-minded customers the Power of Choice.
Focus Electric also is the first all-electric vehicle to feature faster charging technology, allowing it to fully recharge in three to four hours – half the time of Nissan Leaf. This technology can help double the car’s range during a busy day of driving and recharging multiple times.
“Focus Electric’s innovative faster charging technology can help customers save money and get much more out of the car in a busy day of running around town and recharging between stops,” said Sherif Marakby, director of Ford’s Electrification Programs and Engineering. “We also are pleased the Focus Electric will break the 100 MPGe mark – a great symbol of how Ford has transformed its fleet with many vehicles delivering leading fuel economy and efficiency.”
With 20 years of Ford research and innovation behind electrified vehicle software and hardware technology, the company offers proven engineering and design with Focus Electric. Ford holds approximately 500 patents, with several hundred patent-pending applications on technologies used in the new Focus Electric and its other electrified vehicles.
Ford began taking orders for the 2012 Focus Electric in November through Certified Electric Vehicle Dealers in California and New York/New Jersey markets. In 2012, availability of the Focus Electric will expand to another 15 launch markets as production ramps up.
Focus Electric reflects Ford’s commitment to deliver fuel-efficient vehicles without sacrificing performance, capability or driving fun. Though range and miles per gallon equivalent figures are yet to be finalized, Focus Electric is expected to be competitive with other comparable all-electric vehicles.
“Focus Electric was designed to deliver the same dynamics and quality of a conventional Ford Focus,” said Eric Kuehn, Focus Electric chief nameplate engineer. “It shares many of the same premium components and features as its gasoline-powered counterpart while delivering distinct efficiencies and a uniquely exciting driving experience.”
A battery of quality
Focus Electric will be powered by an advanced lithium-ion (li-ion) battery system with an advanced active liquid cooling and heating system to precondition and regulate the temperature in its larger, more complex battery system.
The active liquid system heats or chills a coolant before pumping it through the battery cooling system. This loop regulates temperature throughout the system against external conditions. On hot days, chilled liquid absorbs heat from the batteries, dispersing it through a radiator before pumping it through the chiller again. On cold days, heated liquid warms the batteries, gradually bringing the system’s temperature to a level that allows it to efficiently accept charge energy and provide enough discharge power for expected vehicle performance.
The durability and longevity of batteries – which Ford has been developing and testing since the 1980s – is essential as the company expands its electrification plan. To date, among the nearly 43 million battery cells Ford has tested or seen put to work in customer vehicles, only five issues have been documented.
Plug and play… and save
Even with relatively stable gas prices, fuel economy is the top purchase consideration for new vehicles. Nearly 45 percent of customers say fuel economy is their top consideration based on a Ford survey of Americans in 36 cities this fall. Styling was the next consideration, with only 16 percent of study participants saying it was their top purchase driver.
The fuel efficiency of Focus Electric sets it apart from other vehicles. For example, the cost to travel 80 miles is $2.10 – based on the amount of energy it takes (measured in kilowatt-hours) and the national average cost of a kilowatt-hour. Driving 80 miles in a competitive gasoline-powered vehicle that gets 30 mpg would cost $8.80, based on a per gallon cost of $3.30.
A unique “set it and forget it” value charging feature, powered by Microsoft, is designed to help owners in the U.S. charge their cars when the utility rates are lower. The tool aims to help customers avoid unnecessary expense by providing an optimized charging solution. In the future, these smart charging habits can help utility companies understand and better manage the demands placed upon the electric grid because of electrified vehicles.
Focus Electric is the first all-electric vehicle to offer faster charging technology, allowing a full recharge in three to four hours with the 240-volt charge station – half the time of the Nissan Leaf.
Ford and SunPower Corp. have teamed up to offer customers a rooftop solar system that can provide enough clean, renewable energy to offset the electricity used to charge the car.
The car’s charge port – conveniently located on the left front fender – activates a light ring that illuminates the port twice when plugged in. The light ring then illuminates in quadrants as the car charges. Each quadrant represents 25 percent of the maximum battery charge.
Flashing quadrants represent charge in progress and solid-lit quadrants show stages of charge completion. When the entire ring is solidly lit, the car is fully charged.
Technology for more efficient driving, better MPGe
Focus Electric’s SYNC® with MyFord Touch® driver connect technology was specifically developed for electric vehicle owners and displays key information such as battery state of charge. The system’s MyView feature allows drivers to access even more vehicle data including the electrical demands of such accessories as air conditioning, which can impact driving range.
Drivers also can input destinations, including their next charge point, into the car’s MyFord Touch map-based navigation system, and the car will coach drivers on how to achieve the desired range – or advise if travel plans need to be adjusted. The on-board navigation system provides an EcoRoute option based on characteristics of efficient electric vehicle driving.
The Focus Electric’s next-generation SmartGauge® with EcoGuide fuel economy coaching system features a cluster display that uses blue butterflies to represent the surplus range beyond the driver’s charge point destination. The more butterflies there are, the more surplus you have to get to your final destination.
At the end of each trip, a display screen provides distance driven, miles gained through regenerative braking, energy consumed and a comparative gasoline savings achieved by driving electric.
Remote control
Off-board, Focus Electric owners will be able to maintain constant contact with the car anywhere they have a mobile phone signal using the Ford-developed MyFord® Mobile app. MyFord Mobile enables access via a smartphone or Web-based interface to:
• Receive instant vehicle status information
• Perform key functions remotely
• Monitor the car’s state of charge and current range
• Get alerts when it requires charging or has finished charging
• Remotely program charge settings and download vehicle data for analysis
• Locate charge stations and plan routes to find them
The feature also allows the owner to program the car to use electricity from the grid to heat or cool the cabin while plugged in – called preconditioning. For example, during hot summer months, owners can preprogram the car the evening before to be fully charged – and fully cooled to a particular temperature – by a certain time the following morning.
Working with MapQuest®, MyFord Mobile can communicate charge station information and other points of interest to Focus Electric using SYNC Services. Turn-by-turn guidance is provided by the in-car map-based Navigation System. Drivers can also get up-to-date charge station information directly to their car simply by connecting to SYNC Services.
Engaging to drive, too
Not only is Focus Electric designed to provide outstanding energy efficiency and reliable operation, it also delivers real driving enjoyment. The all-electric powertrain and single-speed transmission provide immediate responsiveness and smooth acceleration when the driver pushes down the accelerator; it’s expected to achieve a top speed of 84 mph (136 kph).
Much of the Focus Electric’s steering, handling and braking feel is shared with the agile, sporty, fuel-powered five-door hatchback Focus model upon which it’s based. At the same time, the vehicle’s absence of gasoline or diesel engine and its outstanding aerodynamics lead to a remarkably quiet, comfortable in-car experience.
Focus Electric offers a host of standard safety and security features including six airbags, electronic traction control and MyKey® for North America. The Focus Electric is the industry’s first car to feature 100 percent sustainable clean technologies in interior materials, including seat fabrics with REPREVE®-branded fiber made from recycled plastic bottles in the seat fabric
Other standard features on Ford Focus Electric for North American customers include 15-spoke 17-inch aluminum wheels, a 60/40 split rear bench seat, push-button start, AM/FM/CD/MP3 Sony® Audio with nine speakers, SiriusXM Satellite Radio and HD Radio™. Also included is a free, three-year subscription to SYNC Services, which provides access to information about traffic, news, sports, weather, horoscopes, stock quotes and movie listings, along with business searches and turn-by-turn directions.
All Focus gasoline and electric variants to be sold in North America will be built at Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Mich., with production powered in part by one of the largest solar energy generator systems in the state.
Don’t miss out on what could be the adventure of a lifetime! Ford needs YOU! Ford’s upcoming new reality web series, Escape Routes, is looking for six fun-loving, adventure-seeking, creative and fast-on-their-feet dynamic duos to take on various mental and physical challenges while traveling cross country in the brand new 2013 Ford Escape. While the six teams compete against one another, fans will be able to interact, play and help throughout the challenges online. Episodes highlighting the adventures will air online weekly. Fans will also be able to gain access to exclusive behind-the-scenes content through various social media and mobile platforms.
Interested in this once in a life time adventure of a lifetime? Ten casting calls are being held this December throughout the country.
Dec. 3 Los Angeles
Dec. 10 Chicago and New York
Dec. 17 Dallas and Boston
Jan. 7 Seattle and Miami
Jan. 14San Francisco andAtlanta
Can’t attend a casting call? You can also submit an application and video as to why your team should be chosen to compete. For further information, updates and the online application visit the official Escape Routes website atwww.EscapeRoutes.com.
Escape Routes is set for its online debut in March 2012.
Good luck to all who are applying!
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About The 2013 Ford Escape
“The 2013 Escape has an eco-friendly side. For example, there are two available EcoBoost engines that provide more power per every drop of fuel. Seat cushion and head restraint foam is derived from plant seeds. Carpet in all the models is produced using post-industrial fibers derived from recycled plastic bottles. Even the shape of the Escape and the use of the active grille shutters helps make the vehicle more aerodynamic.” (Source: http://www.ford.com/suvs/escape/2013/)
Mel Hambelton Ford hosted the 4th Annual Strong Vynes Fundraiser for the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign on December 1. The theme was Studio 54, and the dealership was transformed into a disco club, complete with a lighted dance floor and funky decorations.
When guests arrived, their car was valet parked and they were offered a free car wash. Once inside, their coats were checked so they could enjoy the evening without hassling with bulky winter gear. Guests could purchase raffle tickets at check in for a car Mel Hambelton donated to be auctioned off. The event was catered by Corporate Caterers, and had everything from meat to rolls to vegetables, cake and a chocolate fountain.
After eating, guests were invited to check out the silent auction items. Businesses from Wichita and the surrounding areas donated items to be auctioned off, and there was something for everyone. Cocoa Dolce donated chocolates, Salon Bella donated a haircut and facial package, Mel Hambelton Ford donated a helicopter ride for three and the Sedgwick County Zoo donated memberships. There were also great gift certificates to local restaurants.
Beyond Napa was another sponsor of the Studio 54 event, and they offered VIP Wine Tastings. For a low price, guests were able to sample three premium wines.
One of the big prizes of the evening was a slot machine. Guests could purchase playing cards, and at the end of the night, the guest with the highest poker hand won the slot machine.
All the money raised at the event was donated to the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign. The Strong Kids Campaign allows children in Wichita to participate in sports, free after school programs, camps, water safety classes and many other programs. The YMCA says 67,414 lives have been changed by the Strong Kids Campaign, of which 73.8% are children.
Look out Camaro ZL1, this beast is coming at you harder, better, faster and stronger. The beloved Mustang Shelby is back! And back with a vengeance. With a 5.8-liter V8 aluminum-block engine producing 650 horsepower and 600 lb.-ft. of torque, the 2013 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 is now the most powerful V8 production in the world. Did we mention it reaches a speed of 200+ MPH? Yes, we said 200+. How ridiculous is that?! The 2013 GT500 weighs in at 3, 850 pounds – 270 pounds LESS than that of its chief rival, the Camaro ZL1 – and therefore leaving it exempt to the Gas Guzzler Tax.
The 2013 GT500 brings back its classic, stunning Mustang look and feel that everyone fell in love with, but with a touch more of aggression. There have been minor tweaks in the exterior, most notably on the front grille and rear, and comes with standard 19-inch front wheels and 20-inch rear wheels.
Oh, did we mention you could STILL upgrade this gorgeous monster with the Performance Package? And the Performance Package further upgraded with the Track Package? Well, now you know. The Performance Package includes a Toresen limited-slip differential, a new launch control system and a new Brembo brake system. The Track Package coupled with the Performance Package adds an external engine oil cooler, rear differential cooler and transmission cooler.
This jaw-dropping power-stricken classic muscle car is going to be a definite favorite in 2012. A classic stunning look, tons of modifications to its suspension, brakes, aerodynamics and power, and upgrades galore? What’s not to love about the 2013Shelby?
The 2013 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 will be available to order Summer 2012.
Hey everyone! Our Black Friday blog is currently being updated with news about the cars and t-shirts! Check out the Black Friday blog at ultimateblackfriday.wordpress.com and sign up for your sneak peek of the cars today!
The 2012 Green Car of the Year finalists were recently revealed, and the Ford Focus Electric made the elite list. That is definitely something to be applauded, not only because of being able to beat out the stiff competition it faced, but because of the social responsibility Ford Motor Company is demonstrating by manufacturing and distributing this earth friendly vehicle.
There is no need to stress the importance of being conscious of the environment and helping preserve the resources this beautiful planet provides us, but we will do it anyways. Being green isn’t just an award; it must become a way of life, not only for Ford, but also for every car company and every company that exists all over the world for that manner. If we all demonstrate social responsibility in the corporate world, then that will help transform the society we live in so that we can all live sustainable lives and not damage the world we live in beyond repair.
Obviously we are a Ford dealership here at Mel Hambelton Ford, but we would also like to congratulate every other vehicle that got nominated for the award and send special congratulations to our own 2012 Ford Focus Electric for representing the Ford brand well. The big winner will be announced on November 17th at the Los Angeles Auto Show and I am sure all of us in the car industry will be anxious to hear who gets to be the big winner. However, Mel Hambelton Ford is pretty confident it will be the 2012 Ford Focus Electric!
Ford has created a full-size replica of the company’s new Explorer crafted from Lego bricks. The sculpture was created by 22 designers over the course of 2,500 hours. All told, there are 380,000 individual bricks at work, weighing in at a hefty 2,654 pounds, and a 768-pound aluminum platform supports the creation.
Ford debuted its Lego Explorer at its Chicago assembly plant before shipping it to the new Legoland theme park just outside of Orlando, Florida. The block Explorer will ride all the way down to the sunshine state in a transporter with transparent sides so fellow motorists can view the creation.
As an attraction at Legoland, the Explorer will welcome visitors to the Ford Driving School for children, which allows kids to get behind the wheel of their own scale vehicle at a max speed of three miles per hour.
Watch the time lapse construction video here!
Spy photographers have snapped a glimpse of the forthcoming 2013 Ford Fusion. The Mondeo-based sedan looks to have lifted lighting inspiration from the Ford Evos Concept that the automaker debuted at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show. With thin, slit-like projection lenses and a very vertical grille, the 2013 Fusion looks to bring quite a bit more attitude to the table than the current model. Right now, the Fusion is built in Mexico, but there’s some indication that the model may shift to a U.S. plant in the near future as part of the current negotiations between Ford and the United Auto Workers.
At this stage in the vehicle’s development, it’s unclear exactly what Ford will offer in terms of powertrain options or what the inevitable hybrid variant will bring to the table when it arrives. We are told that Ford will likely show off the first real look at the 2013 Fusion at January’s Detroit Auto Show.
