$1,000 Built Ford Tough – FFA Scholarship Awarded to Washington Co. HS Student

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Stephen Cecconi, a 2012 graduate of Washington Co HS-FFA, has been awarded a $1,000 scholarship by Stuart Powell Ford and Ford Motor Company.  Cecconi’s parents are John Cecconi and Patricia Cecconi of Springfield.  Cecconi plans to study Agricultural Engineering at University of Kentucky.

Robert Cunningham (left) presented a certificate of award to Stephen Cecconi (center), winner of a $1,000 Built Ford Tough - FFA Scholarship by Stuart Powell Ford & Ford Motor Company. Also pictured is Washington County High School principal, Paul Terrell. Taking the photograph is Donna Remington, FFA Advisor for Washington County High School.

The Built Ford Tough – FFA Scholarship Program is designed to recognize FFA members’ talents and accomplishments while encouraging their future academic achievements.

The scholarship is one of 529 scholarships awarded by Ford Division, Ford Motor Company Fund and Ford Dealers to FFA members who are high school seniors planning to attend college in the fall of 2012, or current collegiate students.  This program is a part of Ford’s overall commitment to the National FFA Foundation.

Additionally, five National $1,000 BFT – FFA Scholarships are being awarded on behalf of Ford Trucks as a special project of the National FFA Foundation.

Ford has supported the National FFA Foundation since the first F-Series truck was introduced in 1948, and has sponsored the Built Ford Tough collegiate scholarship program since 1997.  To date, the program has awarded $7,115,000 in scholarships to 7,115 FFA members throughout the country.  Ford knows the value of hard work, and believes that hard work should be rewarded.  Educating aspiring young people to become the leaders of tomorrow is just another way of ensuring a successful future.

The National FFA Organization is a national youth organization of 540,379 student members as part of 7,489 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. The National FFA Organization operates under a federal charter granted by the 81st United States Congress and it is an integral part of public instruction in agriculture. The U.S. Department of Education provides leadership and helps set direction for FFA as a service to state and local agricultural education programs. For more, visit the National FFA Organization online (www.FFA.org), on Facebook (www.facebook.com/nationalFFA), on Twitter (http://twitter.com/nationalFFA) and FFA Nation (http://FFAnation.FFA.org).

225 S. Danville By-Pass, Danville KY ~ 859.236.8917 ~ StuartPowell.com

Ford Warriors in Pink Celebrates Breast Cancer Survivors with ‘Models of Courage’ Campaign

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Ford Warriors in Pink® honors breast cancer survivors who have demonstrated strength and courage in their battle with its “Models of Courage” program – 11 women and men to be featured as role models in 2012 campaign; all proceeds benefit breast cancer charities.

May 11, 2012 – Ford Warriors in Pink®, the program created by Ford Motor Company to raise awareness and funds in the fight against breast cancer, is launching a new campaign that highlights the stories of breast cancer survivors with “Models of Courage.” Eleven women and men were selected for the Models of Courage campaign to serve as Ford Warriors in Pink role models and inspire everyone involved in the fight against breast cancer.
In its 18th year of raising awareness of breast cancer, Ford Warriors in Pink created the Models of Courage campaign to celebrate breast cancer survivors who have demonstrated strength and courage in their battle.
“The Ford Warriors in Pink campaign recognizes the strength and courage it takes to deal with the daily challenges of fighting breast cancer,” said Tracy Magee, Ford’s primary brand experiential manager. “We are so thrilled to highlight these inspirational women and men as our Models of Courage. We hope their personal stories and experiences with breast cancer will help raise awareness and serve to inspire those on the front lines battling breast cancer.”
Supporters can learn more about the campaign and each of these individuals on the Ford Warriors in Pink Facebook page, under Models of Courage.
The Models of Courage will also appear nationally as models for the 2012 line of Warriors in Pink wear and gear. The 2012 collection of Ford Warriors in Pink apparel and accessories is created for women, men and children, and features important symbols signifying the message of hope, strength and unity in the fight against breast cancer. The 2012 collection is now available at www.fordcares.com, with 100 percent of net proceeds going directly to the fight against breast cancer.

•2012 Ford Warriors in Pink’s collection of apparel and accessories is now available at www.fordcares.com.

This year, Warriors in Pink shoppers will be given the opportunity to choose the breast cancer charity to support with their apparel purchase at checkout. The four organizations highlighted include:
  • Susan G. Komen for the Cure® – Komen promise is to save lives and end breast cancer forever by empowering people, ensuring quality of care for all and energizing science to find the cures.
  • Dr. Susan Love Research Foundation (DSLRF) - With over 365,000 grassroots volunteers from around the country,Dr. Susan Love Research Foundationconducts research, funds research, and fast tracks research with the unique mission of moving breast cancer beyond a cure by understanding the causes and ways to prevent it.
  • The Pink Fund – Provides financial aid in the form of direct bill payment on behalf of breast cancer patients in active treatment.  Many patients are unable to work during treatment.  Others lose their jobs.  With mounting bills and either no income or severely limited income, they quickly find themselves in dire financial distress.  The Pink Fund provides Real Help Now.
  • Young Survival Coalition (YSC) – The Young Survival Coalition directly improves the lives of thousands of young women with breast cancer. 1 in 8 women diagnosed with breast cancer are younger than 45 years old. YSC provides free resources and programs to support, educate and empower these women.

•For the past 18 years, Ford has fought the battle against breast cancer 365 days a year, raising more than $115 million.

Ford Warriors in Pink is giving breast cancer supporters the chance to win a new 2013 Warriors in Pink Ford Escape. The all-new Escape – the most fuel-efficient small SUV – is the smarter way to get there, with two available, powerful yet efficient EcoBoost® engines, eco-friendly interior, hands-free technology and custom Warriors in Pink styling featuring the campaign’s inspirational symbols. Supporters can enter the contest here.
The Ford commitment runs well beyond raising funds. The company is dedicated to making a difference 365 days a year by encouraging women to become informed and visit their doctors, educating them that early detection saves lives. 2012 marks Ford Motor Company’s 18th year of support, dedicating more than $115 million to the cause to date.

Mazda CX-5 – Just Right!

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Check out the award-winning 2013 Mazda CX-5 at Stuart Powell Ford-Lincoln-Mazda in Danville, Kentucky!

Taken from May 1, 2012 article by Jason Cammisa with AutomobileMag.com

2013 Mazda CX-5 specs…

Price Range: $28,295 * Base Engine: 155 hp /2.0L L4 * MPG Range: 26 city / 35 hwy

At $29,165, our Mazda CX-5 (a 2013 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring FWD) boasts the best EPA fuel economy ratings, and in our rigorous testing (we drove like animals) used by far the least fuel. In fact, it beat the Honda by 15 percent.

The defining feature of the Mazda CX-5 is gimmick-free elegance. There’s a richness to the vehicle that goes beyond the others — in its exterior styling as well as its cabin. The red-stitched black leather looks and smells more expensive than the hides in the other cars; the no-frills dashboard trades overwrought styling features for simple functionality, and the Mazda’s driving dynamics are, simply put, a whole class ahead of its rivals.

The CX-5′s steering feels like its rack came straight off the shelf of the Porsche engineering center. It’s accurate, well-weighted, and highly communicative. Will Goldilocks care about steering? Does a bear cook in the woods? Absolutely! The typical crossover buyer may not speak in terms of on-center steering feel and load buildup, but all drivers know good steering when they feel it: Goldilocks will get in this car and instantly feel like she’s connected with the wheels and in control of her vehicle.

And when the bears come running after her, the CX-5 will make the quickest getaway. The Mazda’s body weighs about 100 lb less than the Honda when comparably equipped. With short, closely spaced gearing and a transmission that loves to play ball, the well-weighted leather shift knob can be thrown into a fully manual gate that uses the racing layout (forward for downshifts, rearward for upshifts).

The CX-5 leisurely rounds bends at speeds that would have the CR-V’s tires screaming loud enough to scare off any attacking furry mammal, and it demonstrates class-leading body control over potholes, frost heaves, and speed humps. The Mazda’s driving experience is practically flawless. And its ride is quieter and suppler than the others’.

In terms of usability and technology, the CX-5 again falls right in the sweet spot. Its cargo room is the smallest of the bunch, but its cabin is biggest overall, meaning it has the most space for people. The rear seat is split 40/20/40, and it can be folded forward in any combination by way of very clever handles near the rear hatch.

The CX-5 features some of the Ford Escape’s Ford’s high-tech goodies without feeling overly gimmicky. Like the Escape, our Mazda was equipped with blind-spot monitoring — which isn’t available on the Honda, which needs it the most thanks to thick D-pillars that obscure rearward visibility. The CX-5′s optional swiveling HID headlamps make for great visibility on curvy roads at night, and we suspect its Bose stereo is good enough to keep passengers entertained on long journeys over the hills and through the woods — whether to Grandmother’s house or to a rave.

Getting lost shouldn’t be a problem since Mazda’s navigation system was designed by TomTom, and its graphical buttons are the easiest to operate. The steering wheel controls and gauges are simple, straightforward, and highly legible.  And the CX-5′s dual-zone climate control is easy to use, and it spits out colder air-conditioned air than the CR-V.

The interesting thing about children’s stories is how well they apply to our adult lives. Sure, you can have your porridge any way you like it. The Honda CR-V is like oatmeal — not very flavorful, but packed with benefits.  The Ford Escape is a warm bowl of peppered grits packed with lots of spice and flavor.  And then the Mazda CX-5 is a delicate polenta — it’s the same basic idea, but somehow this porridge comes across as more substantial, more expensive, and more elegant. Or as Goldilocks might say, it’s just right.

Taken from May 1, 2012 article by Jason Cammisa with AutomobileMag.com

225 S. Danville By-Pass, Danville KY ~ StuartPowell.com ~ 859.236.8917

Ford Makes NASCAR History as All-New Focus Electric Becomes First All-Electric Pace Car for the Richmond 400

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April 17, 2012 – Ford Motor Company is again making NASCAR history this month as the all-new Focus Electric becomes the first all-electric pace car to ever lead the field for a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at the Richmond 400.

The all-new Focus Electric will perform all pace care duties at Richmond International Raceway on April 28.

Ford was also first to use a hybrid to start a NASCAR event when the Fusion Hybrid served as pace car for the Ford 400 at Homestead-Miami Speedway in 2008

“Ford research shows the majority of Americans would consider buying an electrified vehicle but do not yet understand the different technologies,” said Mark Fields, president of The Americas. “Highlighting the Focus Electric as a pace car is a fun way to educate consumers about the kinds of benefits our electrified vehicles deliver and show people our commitment to provide Ford customers the power of choice for leading fuel economy in the vehicle that best meets their needs – from EcoBoost®-powered gasoline vehicles and hybrids to plug-in hybrids and full electrics.”

Approximately 35 percent of new car intenders are motorsports fans and 78 percent of them support NASCAR, according to Ford research. Additionally, Ford race fans are 67 percent more likely to consider Ford products than general market consumers.

This marks the latest in a line of groundbreaking moments for Ford in NASCAR. In addition to being the first manufacturer to compete with a four-door sedan as its flagship model in 1998, Ford was also first to use a hybrid to start a NASCAR event when the Fusion Hybrid served as pace car for the Ford 400 at Homestead-Miami Speedway in 2008.

In January, Ford became the first manufacturer to show off its 2013 NASCAR race car when it unveiled the new 2013 Fusion racer to media in Charlotte, N.C.

The Focus Electric pace car will be unveiled for the public at the Virginia State Capitol in Richmond on April 25. Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling will deliver the Focus Electric to Richmond International Raceway, where it will serve as pace car for that weekend’s NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event.

“Our fans are customers,” said Jamie Allison, director, Ford Racing. “And just like in racing, they expect both fuel economy and performance from their daily drivers, and that’s what Ford is delivering.”

Greg Biffle drives the new 2013 NASCAR Ford Fusion race car at a news conference during the NASCAR Media Tour in Concord, N.C., Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2012. Photo: Chuck Burton / AP

 

Fuel-economy leadership

The all-new Fusion range, which includes EcoBoost, a hybrid and the Energi plug-in hybrid version, is the best example of how Ford is giving customers true power of choice for fuel-efficient vehicles.

This year, Ford will offer nine vehicles reaching an anticipated 40 mpg or more. Plus, the company is building six new electrified vehicles by the end of this year.

“The Focus and Fusion are great examples of how we transformed our fleet of cars, utilities and trucks with leading fuel efficiency – by electrifying entire vehicle platforms, instead of one-off specialty models,” said Eric Kuehn, chief nameplate engineer, Focus Electric.

Ford will offer fuel-efficient EcoBoost engines in 11 vehicles in 2012, up from seven in 2011, tripling the production capacity of EcoBoost-equipped Ford vehicles. This expansion of fuel-efficient offerings will be led by the 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine in the high-volume Escape compact utility vehicle and Fusion sedan.

Delivering up to 20 percent better fuel economy than conventional engines, EcoBoost uses smaller overall size combined with turbocharging and gasoline direct injection to bring customers the power they want and the fuel economy they need.

Focus Electric is America’s most fuel-efficient five-seat car that offers the equivalent of 110 miles per gallon (MPGe) city, 99 MPGe highway and operates entirely on battery-generated power. Focus Electric has been certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to offer 105 MPGe combined.

By comparison, the Nissan Leaf is certified at 106 MPGe city, 92 MPGe highway and 99 MPGe combined. Focus Electric features more passenger room, more motor power and a faster charging system that can nearly halve the charging time of the Leaf.

The all-new Focus Electric will perform all pace care duties at Richmond International Raceway on April 28.

Production of the Focus Electric began in December at Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Mich.

Ford is ramping up Focus Electric retail production in the first half of this year for dealership availability in California, New York and New Jersey. By the end of the year, Focus Electric will be available in 19 markets across the U.S.

“The Ford Focus Electric is a major statement of Ford’s commitment to bring green innovation and performance together, demonstrating for NASCAR fans how conserving the environment, creating jobs and strengthening our country can be made to happen without compromise,” said Mike Lynch, managing director of Green Innovation for NASCAR. “With the largest sustainability program in sports, the NASCAR family is proud of Ford Motor Company’s accomplishment with the Focus Electric pace car and what that means in terms of the tremendous impact of American innovation now and in the future.”

225 S. Danville By-Pass, Danville KY ~ 859.236.8917 ~ StuartPowell.com

Truckin’ Magazine Names Ford F-150 FX2 Top Half-Ton Pickup in ‘Truck of the Year’ Shootout

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April 9, 2012 – Ford knows that full-size truck buyers like to personalize their pickups and so do the experts at Truckin’ magazine. But it takes more than style to win with consumers. After testing four half-ton pickups in a well-rounded set of challenges, the Ford F-150 FX2 SuperCrew is now the Truckin’ half-ton Truck of the Year.

“Ford stepped up to the plate and hit a grand slam with the EcoBoost F-150 FX2,” said Truckin’ Feature Editor Maxwell Matthewson. “They gave the consumer everything they wanted in one package: impeccable styling, remarkable performance, and gas mileage that doesn’t punch you in the gut at the fuel pump.”

Ford is giving buyers more options to personalize the truck. The new FX Appearance Package is available on both FX2 and FX4 trucks and delivers a unique look with stealthy, flat-black accents. The look is set off with black fender and tailgate badges that feature red lettering, which is carried into the interior with a red-stitched steering wheel.

The FX’s interior also features black leather seating surfaces with red perforations and red piping. Unique interior touches include black-painted dash accents, brushed-metal surfaces, and satin shifter knob, door handles and air conditioning vent bezels. The package is available with all seven FX exterior colors. Also new for 2012, the FX Luxury Package now offers cooled front seats, which combine with the previously available heated seats.

New 20-inch six-spoke wheels with flat-black paint are just one of the specialized styling cues on the exterior. A unique body-side decal is matte black with color read-through for a distinctive appearance. A chrome exhaust tip, black-finished grille, and blacked-out headlamps and taillamps round out the exterior upgrades.

“The new FX package delivers a distinctive style that truck buyers are looking for without compromising on any of the F-150’s rugged qualities,” said Raj Sarkar, F-150 Marketing manager. “Earning this recognition from such a discerning group of personalization and performance experts as Truckin’ is gratifying.”

With a twin-turbocharged direct-injection gasoline EcoBoost V6 engine making 365 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque, the Ford F-150 delivers power and performance comparable to competitive, naturally aspirated V8 engines, while delivering significantly improved fuel economy, up to 20 percent better.

The 2012 Ford F-150 FX2 with EcoBoost offers 22 mpg on the highway (4×2) – mileage that’s superior to competitors’ full-size V6 and V8 conventional gasoline trucks and beats even midsize pickups with V6 engines.

The half-ton shootout appears in the April 2012 issue of Truckin’ magazine, on newsstands now. The test compares the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4WD Crew Cab LTZ, Ram 1500 Sport Crew Cab 4×4 and Nissan Titan 4×4 Pro-4X pickups to the winning Ford F-150. F-150 delivers class-leading towing capability of 11,300 pounds and hauling capacity of 3,030 pounds – a combination no other competitor can match.

To read the Truckin’ article, please click on this link: http://www.truckinweb.com/features/1206tr_truckins_2012_half_ton_truck_shootout/index.html Ford F-150 continues to get recognition among the media, winning recent awards such as: •  Motor Trend Truck of the Year •  Cars.com Work Truck of the Year •  Autobytel Truck of the Year award for the 2012 Ford F-150 EcoBoost •  Motor Week Drivers’ Choice Award •  Most Rugged Truck Brand, Kelley Blue Book 2012 Brand Image Award •  Texas Auto Writers Association Truck of Texas •  Vincentric Best Value in America award for Full-Size, Half-Ton Pickups •  Ford F-150 is manufactured at Ford’s Dearborn and Kansas City production facilities.

 

Stuart Powell Among Many Ford Dealers Helping to Raise Record-Setting $1 Million Total for U.S. High Schools in April 2012

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Drive One 4 UR School Stuart Powell Ford Danville KYEducational budget cuts are common, forcing schools in every state to either eliminate valued programs or search for other means of funding.

To address these needs at a local level and empower communities to support and protect valued programs, Ford Motor Company and its dealers partner with high schools across the United States to offer the Drive One 4 UR School program. This initiative has raised more than $10 million through nearly 3,000 events since its inception in 2007, and provides up to $6,000 per school through test drives of Ford products. More than 1,150 dealers have partnered with their local high schools to participate in the program and the funds raised can be applied to any area where the school needs support – athletics, music, even to fix damages from natural disasters.

In April, Ford, its dealers and high schools will attempt to raise a record-setting $1 million in a single month through more than 300 Drive One 4 UR School events throughout the U.S. “The Drive One 4 UR School program was developed as a fun, engaging way to help high schools raise and apply money where they need it, and we realized that if we really applied our efforts in April, we could make a greater difference than ever before,” said Tracy Magee, Ford Experiential Marketing Manager. “Our dealers really shine here in going above and beyond to serve their communities by joining with local high schools to raise money and protect important programs and services.”

HOW DRIVE ONE 4 UR SCHOOL EVENTS WORK

For each Drive One 4 UR School event, Ford and Lincoln dealers work with a local high school to schedule a test drive fundraising event. The dealers provide the cars to be test-driven, the high school organizes the event itself, and both work together to get the word out to their community. For every valid test drive completed, Ford Motor Company donates $20 to the participating high school, up to $6,000.

Click on the link below to watch a video and learn more about Drive One 4 UR School:

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=3030580444243

For more information about Drive One 4 UR School, or sales/service information about Ford products, CLICK HERE to contact a consultant with …

225 S. Danville By-Pass, Danville KY ~ 859.236.8917 ~ www.StuartPowell.com

New Ford Taurus SHO Set to Make Appearance in Screen Gems’ “Think Like a Man” based on Steve Harvey’s Best-Selling Book

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March 29, 2012 – The new 2013 Ford Taurus SHO will hit movie screens across the country as part of its integration into Screen Gems’ highly anticipated film “Think Like a Man,” based on Steve Harvey’s best-selling book, which opens in theaters April 20.

The new 2013 Taurus, arriving in dealers now, will be part of a scene that features Meagan Good’s character Mya and Romany Malco’s character Zeke as they get ready to head out for an evening on the town. Moviegoers will be able to watch Zeke use the upgraded MyFord Touch® entertainment system to set the mood for the date in addition to showing off the Taurus SHO’s powerful 365-horsepower, 3.5-liter EcoBoost® engine.

“This marks not only the first time the new Taurus SHO will appear in a major motion picture, but also a first when it comes to the MyFord Touch entertainment system being spotlighted in a film,” said Crystal Worthem, Ford manager, Brand Content & Alliances. “This movie integration is a great opportunity for us to showcase the new 2013 Ford Taurus SHO to an audience that has traditionally been a purchaser and enthusiast of the Ford Taurus brand.”

The film, based on Steve Harvey’s best-selling book “Think Like a Man,” follows four interconnected and diverse men whose love lives are shaken up after the ladies they are pursuing buy Harvey’s book and start taking his advice to heart. When the band of brothers realizes they have been betrayed by one of their own, they conspire using the book’s insider information to turn the tables and teach the women a lesson of their own.

“The Taurus SHO was an ideal match for us because our film showcases progressive and professional guys showing their smarts and savvy while attempting to navigate the dating world,” said Will Packer, producer of “Think Like a Man.” “The 2013 Taurus and its features were an organic fit for these characters.”

The film is directed by Tim Story and executive-produced by Steve Harvey, Rushion McDonald, Rob Hardy and Glenn S. Gainor. For more information, visit www.thinklikeaman-movie.com.

As part of promotional efforts tied to the film, Ford launched a co-branded 30-second promotional spot that will air on TNT and TBS in addition to co-branded radio spots that will run on the “Michael Baisden Show.” In addition to the TV and radio efforts, Ford kicked off its social media activities tied to the film, which will include the chance for Facebook fans to check out exclusive video clips and images from the film online.

“The Ford brand has been integrated into a wide number of films in the past, and this happened to be an amazing opportunity for us to partner with Screen Gems on a movie that made perfect sense for the Taurus brand,” said Worthem. “Of course, the opportunity to be associated with a film that involves one of our Ford partners, comedian Steve Harvey, made this integration an even more natural fit for us as we look to generate awareness around the new 2013 Taurus in the market.”

New 2013 Ford Taurus SHO

The new Ford Taurus and Taurus SHO deliver more of what large sedan customers really want for the 2013 model year – more power, even better fuel economy, more technology, design refinement, improved craftsmanship and enhanced driving dynamics. Additionally, Taurus is the first car in Ford’s North American lineup to offer the advanced 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, combining a turbocharger with gasoline direct injection to deliver projected best-in-class fuel economy.

To check out footage from the film, be sure to visit www.fordurban.com. To learn more about the new Ford Taurus and Taurus SHO, visit www.ford.com.

For more information about Ford products, please CLICK HERE to contact a consultant with …

225 S. Danville By-Pass, Danville KY ~ 859.236.8917 ~ StuartPowell.com

Eclectic Mix Helps Engineers Perfect the Sound Stage Inside the All-New Ford Escape

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March 21, 2012 – What do Stevie Ray Vaughn’s tube amp, Suzanne Vega’s lip smack and Rihanna’s voice have in common? Recordings of these sounds were all used to help audio engineers set the sound stage inside the all-new Ford Escape.

 

The “buzz” in Stevie Ray Vaughn’s cover of the Jimi Hendrix classic “Little Wing” is from a single-coil pickup amplified by tubes. Ford audio engineers used this recording to evaluate tonal balance, ensure quality in the bass region, and to make sure there is a wide sound stage in the new Escape’s audio system. The lip smack in Suzanne Vega’s a cappella hit “Tom’s Diner” is used to check the center staging of the sound system, while Rihanna’s “S.O.S.” helps evaluate clean bass mixed with vocals and ensure there is nothing shrill in the tweeters.

“We tuned the audio system so that it sounds natural – as if you’re listening to music inside a theater rather than in your vehicle,” said Christine Templin, one of the audio engineers who tuned the Escape’s sound system.

Templin, who enjoys attending concerts in her free time, said the audio engineering team listens to everything from “rap to classical” to bring concert-like sound into Ford vehicles.

The audio engineers’ work is twofold: the objective portion, monitoring sound wave files on laptop computers hooked up to speakers within the vehicle; and the subjective portion, relying on human ears to fine-tune the quality of the system.

Templin explained how Jennifer Warnes’ recording of Leonard Cohen’s “Famous Blue Raincoat” should give the listener a specific feeling.

“You should feel like you have been transported to a gloomy environment,” she said.

PJ Harvey’s “Electric Light” was used to make sure the instruments don’t modulate the vocals and the bass doesn’t shake the doors, Templin noted.

The Escape, which will be available to customers this spring, has three available audio systems: the standard six-speaker system, a nine-speaker system and a SONY®-branded 10-speaker system.

For more information about the 2013 Ford Escape, or other auto purchase/service needs, please CLICK HERE to contact a consultant at…

225 S. Danville By-Pass, Danville KY ~ 859.236.8917 ~ www.StuartPowell.com

New Ford Explorer Sport: Fuel-Efficient, High-Performance SUV Features Inspired Design Cues, EcoBoost V6 Engine

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The 2013 Ford Explorer Sport will be manufactured at Ford’s Chicago production facility, and will arrive in dealerships later in 2012.

March 28, 2012 – The first-ever performance version of the Ford Explorer arrives this year with the highest projected fuel economy among gasoline-engine-powered, high- performance SUVs.

With a twin-turbocharged EcoBoost® V6 engine making at least 350 horsepower and four-wheel drive with a Terrain Management System™, Explorer Sport delivers enhanced on-road dynamics with sporty design cues inside and out. “Adding an EcoBoost drivetrain to Explorer Sport delivers even more fuel efficiency and performance to the lineup,” said Bill Gubing, Explorer chief engineer. “This is our highest- performance, most capable Ford Explorer ever.”

Power, capability, fuel efficiency

Completely new for 2011, the Ford Explorer has been winning over customers with its improved on-road handling, impressive comfort and convenience technologies, and fuel economy never before delivered by an SUV.

For the 2013 model year, Explorer Sport brings high-performance SUV power and projected fuel economy of up to 16 mpg in city driving and 22 mpg on the highway – anticipating 3 mpg better in the city and 2 mpg on the highway than the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango R/T 5.7-liter Hemi engines. It scores 3 mpg higher in the city and 4 mpg higher on the highway than the Land Rover Range Rover Sport.

The Explorer Sport features a paddle-shifted six-speed SelectShift Automatic™ transmission with a unique 3.16 to 1 final drive ratio to provide the balance of responsive acceleration and economical low-rpm cruising for better fuel efficiency.

“Explorer Sport makes no compromises,” said Carl Widmann, vehicle engineering manager. “By carefully beefing the chassis and suspension, precisely calibrating the Terrain Management System and adding comfort and convenience features, we’ve delivered an SUV that delivers great dynamics and performance – while towing up to 5,000 pounds.”

The chassis also has been specially reinforced, making Explorer Sport stiffer and improving its handling.

Explorer Sport also brings a solid-mounted electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) rack with improved steering feel, providing more responsiveness to drivers both on-road and off.

Ford’s newest SUV comes standard with larger brakes for shorter stopping distances and better performance while towing.

Explorer Sport also has received special terrain management settings for tackling sandy, snowy, rutted mud and hill descent.

“Upgrading to Sport specification enabled us to maintain the standards of traditional Explorer capability plus delivering the highest highway fuel efficiency among gasoline-engine-powered, high-performance, three-row SUVs,” Widmann said.

Sport builds on Explorer’s muscular, sculpted form with subtle cues to differentiate it from other models in the lineup.

Subtle, sporty design elements

Sport builds on Explorer’s muscular, sculpted form with subtle cues to differentiate it from other models in the lineup. Available in four exterior colors – Ruby Red Metallic Clearcoat, White Platinum Metallic Tri-Coat, Tuxedo Black Metallic and Ingot Silver Metallic – Explorer Sport has unique 20-inch painted and machined wheels, features blacked-out headlamp and taillamp treatments, black roof rack rails, sideview mirror skull caps and a liftgate appliqué. The Explorer Sport’s special grille is a low-gloss Sterling Gray mesh, with contrasting ebony high-gloss bars. The black front lower fascia features a functional opening for additional cooling. Explorer logotype in billet-like black adds a bold identity statement. Subtle Sport and EcoBoost badges at the rear finish the liftgate.

Inside, the high-end feel continues. Charcoal Black leather-trimmed seating is available with and without contrasting Sienna inserts.

The interior design contrast was inspired by fashion, mirroring two-tones that are currently seen in leather accessories and apparel from design houses Balenciaga and Prada. Stitching is emphasized to lend a handcrafted appearance while highlighting Explorer Sport’s sculptured seats.

Explorer Sport also has unique steering wheel stitching, a technical look to instrument and door panel appliqués, unique Sport-logo floor mats and illuminated scuff plates.

Explorer Sport also has received special terrain management settings for tackling sandy, snowy, rutted mud and hill descent.

Comfort, convenience, connectivity As the top of the Explorer line, Sport offers a robust array of standard and optional customer-focused technologies that make driving more comfortable, convenient and connected. These include:

New Ford Explorer Sport: Fuel-Efficient, High-Performance SUV Features Inspired Design Cues, EcoBoost V6 Engine

  • 4WD with Terrain Management System
  • Dual-Zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control
  • 10-way power driver’s seat with power recline and lumbar
  • Six-way power passenger seat with recline and lumbar
  • First-row heated seats
  • Compass and exterior temperature display
  • Rear view camera
  • SYNC® with MyFord Touch® driver connect technology
  • Sony® Premium Audio System with HD Radio™ and 12 speakers
Explorer Sport can be tailored to individual preferences with the following options as well:
  • Active park assist
  • Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with cross-traffic alert
  • Inflatable rear seat belts
  • 110-volt outlet
  • PowerFold mirrors
  • Intelligent access with Push-Button Start
  • Remote Start
  • Adjustable pedals with memory
  • Dual-panel moonroof
  • Power liftgate
  • Class III trailer-towing package

Explorer Sport is manufactured at Ford’s Chicago production facility. It will arrive in dealerships later this year.

StuartPowell.com ~ 859.236.8917 ~ 225 S. Danville By-Pass, Danville KY

Ford Brings New Solutions to Help Fleet Customers Manage Costs; New Transit to Get 25+ Percent Better Fuel Economy

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Ford’s industry-leading lineup of fuel-efficient engines and alternative-fuel technologies for fleet customers will further expand next year when the all-new Ford Transit commercial van comes to market with a new clean diesel and EcoBoost®V6 engine. The new Transit will achieve at least 25 percent better fuel economy than current E-Series vans.

“With fleet operators facing skyrocketing fuel prices and constant pressure to reduce costs, Ford continues to expand its range,” said Kevin Koswick, director, North American Fleet, Lease and Remarketing Operations for Ford. “By offering multiple options to help solve these challenges, Ford is giving fleet customers true power of choice in finding solutions that best meet their specific needs.”
Speaking to the Automotive Press Association in Detroit today, Koswick said Ford is committed to continuing to provide customers a range of options to reduce their operating costs through a lineup of industry-leading fuel-efficient engines and alternative-fuel technologies, including EcoBoost, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, battery-electric, biodiesel and CNG/LPG.
Diesel engine for new Ford Transit
To meet diverse needs in the full-size van segment, Ford has confirmed it will offer an all-new North American diesel engine option for the new Ford Transit cargo and passenger vans when production starts in Kansas City in 2013. This will be in addition to the fuel-efficient, powerful 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 gasoline engine that is already winning raves from Ford F-150 customers.
The return of a diesel engine option to Ford’s full-size van lineup answers customers’ calls for more choice when seeking a van with superior fuel economy and balanced capability.
In addition, EcoBoost technology is fundamental to the Ford strategy of providing technologically advanced, high-output, smaller-displacement gasoline powertrains that deliver exceptional fuel economy and uncompromised performance.
Overall, the new Transit will achieve at least 25 percent better fuel economy compared to similar E-Series vans, due to its advanced gas and diesel powertrains and smart weight savings that will trim at least 300 pounds. That means commercial and retail customers could save potentially thousands of dollars in operating costs from fuel savings alone.
In addition to the new Transit, certain E-Series bodystyles will continue to be available through most of the decade in North America, even after the U.S.-built Transit goes on sale.
Fleet emissions calculator
Beyond providing fleet customers with a range of fuel-efficient engine choices for vans and other vehicles, Ford also has developed a specialized new tool to help optimize fleet purchases based on specific fuel types and operating locations.
Called the Vehicle Emissions and Fuel Cost Calculator, the new tool is designed to help fleet customers understand their current carbon footprint and to model various scenarios based on the types of vehicles they choose for their fleets. The tool incorporates important information to evaluate fuel costs and emissions, providing a unique opportunity for fleet managers to quickly evaluate multiple options.
The Vehicle Emissions and Fuel Cost Calculator utilizes such information as vehicle type, fuel type and traffic conditions (stop-and-go city traffic or on the highway, for instance), along with the geographic region in which the car will be used to generate information about the efficiency of a fleet.
The proprietary program, which must be used in conjunction with the support of a Ford representative, will create customized scenarios for customers by using special formulas and variables to determine the environmental impact and fuel costs of specific vehicles.
“This tool will help our customers make the most informed purchase decision possible – one that will meet their business needs, help promote energy security and help protect the environment,” said Sandy Winkler, senior researcher with Ford Research and Innovation and developer of the tool.
For example, the tool can demonstrate how operating an electric vehicle in Portland, Ore., has different environmental ramifications from operating one in Philadelphia. This is due to hydropower being a common source of electricity in the Pacific Northwest, reducing carbon dioxide emissions, compared with the mostly coal-based electricity used in the East Central region.
Built – and building – Ford Tough
Ford has gained major market share in key commercial vehicle segments as the economy rebounds from the industry lows of 2009. In vans, where Ford E-Series has been the best-seller for 32 years, market share grew from 49.8 percent in 2008 to 53.7 percent in 2011, even as new competitors entered the market.
Ford F-Series has been the best-selling truck for 35 years and the best-selling vehicle for 30 years.
The Ford F-150 – the most fuel-efficient light-duty pickup truck – is able to tow up to 11,300 pounds with either a traditional 6.2-liter V8 or a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that is rated at up to 22 mpg on the highway. Additionally, the 3.7-liter V6 and 5.0-liter V8 engines are flex fuel-capable.
The entire Ford F-Series Super Duty pickup truck and chassis cab lineup is available with gasoline, diesel, biodiesel B20 and CNG/LPG-dedicated or bi-fuel capability, while Ford F-650 and F-750 medium-duty trucks can be optioned for gasoline, biodiesel or CNG/LPG operation. In addition to biodiesel and CNG/LPG offerings, the 6.2-liter V8 can also be operated on E85.
E-Series full-size vans and cutaways are available with flex fuel or CNG/LPG gaseous engine prep package fuel systems.
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