National Geographic: Making of the Ford Mustang, American Muscle Car

Making of the Ford Mustang, American Muscle Car.

Making of the Ford Mustang, American Muscle Car as shown on the National Geographic Channel.  <Click on the video box in the story below.>


 
This is amazing.  National Geographic Channel shows every element of how the Ford Mustang, the legendary American muscle car is born.

There is one line that summarizes my thoughts exactly, “Mass production as an intricate industrial dance.” Intricate is the key word there.  You are going to be amazed when you see the “intricate” and careful steps that Ford takes to put together thousands of different configurations of the Mustang.

From the assembly process to molding the bumpers and painting them, not to mention the hand assembly that still takes place on various elements, the personal stories that have unfolded behind the scenes and the final test drive of the products.  Mustang lovers, Ford lovers, American muscle car lovers… you are going to love this program. Enjoy!

 

(c) National Geographic Channel

 

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Celebrating Henry Ford’s Life on the 150th Anniversary of his Birth

A few weeks ago, the Ford Motor Company kicked off a yearlong celebration of Henry Ford’s life on the 150th anniversary of his birth.

Henry Ford’s vision changed the way we live. His life spanned an era of dramatic change—from farm to factory, the Civil War to World War II, candlelight to electric light and from horses to cars.

Celebrate Henry Ford’s life on the 150th anniversary of his birth

Celebrate Henry Ford’s life on the 150th anniversary of his birth.

Ford’s revolutionary Model T was a pebble tossed into a still pond. The influence of which still ripple in time and wash over us all today.

A key part of the company’s heritage returned home. A Model A, built in 1903, is again with the Ford family, kicking off the celebration.
It is considered the oldest surviving Ford vehicle. T he 1903 Model A was unveiled last month to company employees by Executive Chairman Bill Ford, who purchased the vehicle at an auction in October.

“The timing was perfect to bring this key part of Ford heritage back to the family as we celebrate the 150 th anniversary of my great-grandfather’s birth and his vision to improve people’s lives by making cars affordable for the average family,” said Bill Ford. “His vision to build cars that are reasonably priced, reliable and efficient still resonates and defines our vision today as well.”

According to Ford, MotorCities National Heritage Area and the Henry Ford Heritage Association teamed up with more than 30 Henry Ford-related collaborators to coordinate the yearlong celebration of events. These activities, highlighting Ford’s legacy, contributions and influence, include tours, educational programming, dramatic re-enactments, lectures, integration and special events at auto shows and more.

A site has been created that is to Ford’s life and the celebration. The site address is: www.henryford150.com. It includes an interactive timeline of Ford’s life, tours, a calendar of 2013 events and information about efforts to preserve Henry Ford’s heritage.

 

 

 

 

 

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Children’s Ford F-150 SVT Raptor Holiday Dreams Come True

This may be one of the coolest toys I saw this holiday season. How about a Ford F-150 SVT Raptor you don’t need a license for. That’s right! You can now buy the Ford high-performance truck in the toy shop.

Raptor replicas are extremely popular when it comes to children’s choices in toys and video games. Manufacturers know how much children of all ages enjoy the pickup. In fact, Ford Motor Company’s licensing demands have reached an all-time high, replacing GM’s Hummer brand as the most sought-after licensed truck.

“We knew we had a winner on our hands when we first introduced Raptor to the toy and video game companies three years ago,” said Mark Bentley, licensing manager, Ford Global Brand Licensing. “Licensing executives from all the top brands immediately understood Raptor’s potential and moved quickly to sign agreements with Ford Global Brand Licensing. They have not regretted that decision.”

 

A wide range of toys from ride-ons to simulator games are available this holiday season:

  • Mattel licenses Raptor for its Hot Wheels and Matchbox brands
  • Fisher-Price licenses the highly popular Raptor Power Wheels Ride-On. It is one of the most popular toys at Walmart since its introduction
  • Electronic Arts “Need for Speed” franchise showcases Raptor in its No. 1-selling racing video game, “Need for Speed Most Wanted”
  • Microsoft Forza 4’s top-selling racing simulator game counts Raptor as one of its most downloaded vehicles
  • “Raptor products can be found in nearly every major distribution channel,” said Bentley. “From toy retailers such as Toys R Us, Walmart and Target, to hobby stores such as Hobby Lobby, Michaels, smaller independent retailers, drug store chains and dollar stores, Raptor is everywhere.”

Raptor isn’t limited to toy trucks, remote-controlled trucks and video games; replicas are now available in almost every imaginable form for kids to enjoy, including 3D puzzles and sketchbooks. It is a global phenomenon licensed by companies in Canada, Germany, Japan, China and Brazil, so children all over the world can enjoy the fun of Raptor.

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Santa to Swap Outdated Ride for 30-MPG-Plus Ford Transit Connect Wagon Sleigh

Santa’s New Concept Sleigh Courtesy of Ford

Santa not only knows who is naughty and who is nice, he knows which rides offer the right MPG and cargo space.  According to Ford, they are helping Santa Claus save future Christmases with an all-new 2014 Transit Connect Wagon sleigh.

Due to larger-than-ever numbers of children on his “nice” list, Claus needed a new sleigh with maximum fuel economy and cargo space to efficiently deliver all his presents around the world.

Ford designed Santa’s cool concept sleigh based on its Transit Connect Wagon, powered by EcoBoost®. It offers 30 mpg-plus and an industry-leading presents per gallon (ppg) cargo rating. As an added benefit, the EcoBoost engine – which is finely tuned for high-speed performance – would offer speeds much faster than Claus ever traveled in his former 36-hoofpowered sleigh.

Claus says changing his mode of transportation will not compromise his ability to remain true to his mission. “My goal is and always has been giving presents to good girls and boys, and a new sleigh will make that process more effective,” he says. “Let’s face it, every year there are more children who earn presents. Things are simply getting out of control, and my old sleigh just isn’t going to be able to hack it much longer. With the new sleigh, I will be able to travel faster and carry more toys.”

Ford engineers developed the Transit Connect Wagon sleigh concept weeks after hearing

Ford Transit Connect Wagon

of Santa’s dilemma during cold-weather testing in the North Pole. “This is a winning situation for all,” says Darren Goddard, chief engineer for Ford Transit Connect Wagon. “The increased efficiency means added time for Santa to enjoy milk and cookies at stops. His new ride will offer 100 cubic feet of cargo space and versatility to haul up to 2,000 pounds, which Santa will need.”

What do the reindeer think? Reindeer spokesperson Dasher says the nine reindeer look forward to some time off. Every year, the flying animals travel 124,421,726 miles and they’d like some time to rest, he says, explaining there are still splinters embedded in his hoofs from a particular wooden roof in southern Indiana.

“You really can’t beat this new sleigh,” says Goddard. “It offers outstanding fuel economy without sacrificing power. It even offers an electric windshield defroster, making short work of icy windshields in wintry conditions. So, if there’s a foggy Christmas Eve, we won’t need a red-nosed reindeer to guide Santa around the world.”

 

 

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Ford E-Series, Transit – Drive Down Memory Lane & Future of Commercial Vehicles

The Ford E-Series van has been the best-selling van in America for over 3 decades.

The E-series van is an American icon. The first Econoline was introduced in 1961. Over the years it has gone through many changes, from design to advancements in technology.

Meanwhile, the Ford transit has been making tracks of it’s own in Europe. In its 45 years, it has undergone its own never-ending transformation to become the best-selling van in Europe.  In 2009, the Transit Connect was introduced to America. In its first year was awarded the North American Truck of the Year for 2010.

Ford is the only full-size manufacturer offering vehicles from Class 1 through Class 7. Ford offers more choices than ever for getting the job done. They are durable, capable and all are Built Ford Tough!

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Green Car Journal Names 2013 Ford Fusion Green Car of the Year at L.A. Auto Show

2013 Ford Fusion Named Green Car of the Year

2013 Ford Fusion Named Green Car of the Year

Clap, clap clap! And the winner is…

The Green Car Journal has named the 2013 Ford Fusion Green Car of the Year at the Los Angeles Auto Show. With five powertrain choices, including two EcoBoost® engines plus hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants, the new Ford Fusion comes to market with a “game-on attitude,” says Ron Cogan, Green Car Journal publisher.

Ford general marketing manager, David Mondragon, said that Ford “very honored” the 2013 Fusion has been recognized with such an honor. “From EcoBoost to hybrid and plug-in hybrid offerings, the new Fusion is delivering best-in-class fuel economy all wrapped in a dynamic package,” Mondragon said.

So, who were the other finalists? It will come as no surprise, the Ford C-MAX was right up there with the Ford Fusion.

More information about Fusion can be found here. Click here for more on the award. To take a test drive and see why everyone is talking about the all-new 2013 Ford Fusion, visit www.BigFordMan.com to see what’s available right now. Afterall, what better way to celebrate the holidays than with a new car that allows you to have more green all year round!

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Ford Brings Speed & Style to Small-Car Market with Fiesta ST Launch in North America

2014 Ford Fiesta ST coming to a dealership near you in 2013

It has been confirmed.  Ford is going to launch the Fiesta ST in North America. Already a popular hatchback that was born in Europe in 2005, it packs a big punch with a 1.6-liter EcoBoost®engine producing nearly 200 horsepower.

The new Fiesta ST is Ford’s latest vehicle to wear the Sport Technologies badge, which is a global performance brand that debuted in North America earlier this year with the launch of the Focus ST.

The Fiesta ST comes exclusively equipped with a six-speed manual transmission and is expected to be a segment leader in both performance and fuel efficiency, too!

The Fiesta ST — making its debut at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show — isn’t like the competition. It doesn’t simply look like a performance car; it’s got the guts to back it up.

This awesome car was born with racing DNA, but buyers won’t have to pay for that performance at the pump. It’s available exclusively as a five-door hatchback in North America and with a six-speed manual transmission. The Fiesta ST is projected to achieve up to 34 mpg. That’s impressive stuff!

Learn more about the all-new Fiesta ST at: http://media.ford.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=37425.

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The New 2013 Ford Fusion, The Inspiration & The Rose

All new ford fusion Texas

The New 2013 Ford Fusion captured attention across he nation at Go Further With Ford Night Out on Nov. 15th.  Customers came out to dealerships to see what the made the new Fusion tick. The response was awesome. Everyone we spoke to loved it!

Now, Ford is revealing the source for their inspiration. Here is where the creativity and passion of Ford’s collective best fuels the vision. Take a listen and hear first hand from some Ford’s own and hear what it took to create the most stylish and cutting-edge car yet… The all-new 2013 Ford Fusion. Click here to watch the videos. Pretty inspiring and interesting.

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Dallas City Council Approves Randall Reed’s Vision to Redevelop Braniff, Legend Space at Dallas Love Field to Provide Mixed-Use Development

Addison, TX (Nov. 20, 2012) – Randall and Sherry Reed, owners of Starbase Jet, based in Addison, and local Ford and Lincoln automobile dealerships Park Cities and Prestige, have set their sites on a new development opportunity that will allow the family-owned business to expand operations into the Dallas Love Field area.

On November 14, 2012, the city approved a proposal that allows Reed Enterprise Investment Holdings to move forward with transforming the former Legends Airline site and DalFort Aerospace building — that originally served as Braniff Airlines’ at Love Field headquarters — into a new, vibrant mixed-use development that will provide a number of services to the community and add value to the neighborhood for many years to come.

“We are pleased the city understands our vision and has approved for us to proceed with the redevelopment of the former Braniff and Legends Airlines area of Dallas Love Field,” said Mr. Reed.  “Our planned mixed-use development of retail, office complex, restaurant, automotive and exclusive ‘Jet Club Elite membership’ aviation fuel and hanger facility is unprecedented.”

The Reed family is known for creating extraordinary customer experiences. Their aviation business, Starbase Jet has been providing leadership and value to private jet travels for more than a decade. It is the recipient of the prestigious Platinum Rating by ARG/US, an accreditation earned by only 10 percent of Jet Charter operators. Starbase is one of the most luxurious and innovative private jet service providers, specializing in private jet charter, private jet membership, professional aircraft management as well as aircraft acquisitions and sales.

The new Starbase Exec facility will offer such amenities as a personal concierge assigned to each member, catering to members every need and desire, free indoor vehicle storage, service drop-off and pick-up, along with a professional detail center for both automobile and aircraft needs.  “This will be a true game changer,” states Mr. Reed. “Our exclusive membership club will set new standards for corporate and personal jet flying experiences!  We plan on networking Starbase Exec to the many private clubs in the world, similar to high-end memberships found in travel, fractional home ownership and country clubs.”

In addition, the family is one of the largest award-winning, independent Ford dealers in the nation. Their award-winning Prestige Ford in Garland and Park Cities Ford and Lincoln in Dallas has served the Dallas/Fort Worth markets for over 20 years. Randall and Sherry have served as the official spokespersons on local TV and radio stations since their inception.  “The ability to engage the consumer one-on-one, expressing our family and moral values has catapulted us to one of the largest Top-100 Mega Dealers in the USA,” states Mr. Reed.  “Sherry and I are proud to continue the traditions started in Garland 25 years ago by offering incredible award-winning customer service, state-of-the-art facility design and comfort, along with over 1,000 associates that have built our companies into businesses anyone would be proud to own.” Mr. Reed added.

The Reed’s also have owned and operated the No. 1 selling Ford retailer in Houston for 12 years called Planet Ford. It was built on a brand new concept Mr. Reed calls “Autotainment.” The facility incorporates the latest and greatest technologies with the most enjoyable purchase experience a consumer could ask for.

The City of Dallas approved Reed Enterprise Investment Holdings to lease approximately 1,050,138 square feet of land and the 700 vehicle-parking garage that once serviced the old Legend Aviation facility. The Reed’s plan on this being the launching pad to start the redevelopment of the Lemmon corridor of Love Field. “We plan on visiting with our neighbors throughout the development and design stages to assure all that we are building a business complex everyone will be proud to have in their community,” Mr. Reed said. The final step is to receive approval from the Federal Aviation Administration and Texas Historical Commission.

# # #

About Starbase Jet:
Starbase Jet is a premiere, on-demand charter aircraft carrier provider and management company, providing leisure and corporate travelers with private aircraft charters to anywhere in the world. Founded in 2002 by Chairman and CEO, Randall Reed and his managing partner Joel Brookshire, the company employs a team of highly experienced pilots, mechanics and support staff. Starbase Jet is based out of Addison and Houston, Texas. More information about the company can be found at www.StarbaseJet.com.

About Starbase Exec:
Starbase Exec is a new, exclusive “members only” club that takes personal and corporate jet services to the next level.  The private club, overseen by managing partner, Dan Claassen, provides personal concierge service, transportation services, free vehicle storage, a professional detail center for both automobile and aircraft needs, among a myriad of other elite privileges.

About Randall Reed’s World Class Automotive Group:
World Class Automotive Group, owned by Randall and Sherry Reed, is a family-owned business comprised of several dealerships throughout Texas, including: Park Cities Ford and Lincoln in Dallas, Prestige Ford in Garland, Planet Ford in Spring, Planet Lincoln in Spring, Planet Ford in Humble and Hillcrest Ford in Huntsville. Learn more at www.BigFordMan.com.

About Randall and Sherry Reed:
Randall and Sherry Reed have built a highly successful, Texas-based automotive dealership and private aviation group on the foundation of managing from the ground up with over 35 years of automotive and a decade of charter aircraft experience. Mr. Reed worked his way up from a diesel engine mechanic in the late ’70s and progressed through sales, finance and management departments. Mr. Reed leveraged his hands-on training, along with his many incredible business partners; into the award-winning, billion-dollar sales organization it is today.  The Reeds have created an iconic brand within the Texas markets, capitalizing on their 25-year marriage and market recognition with fun, wholesome commercials showcasing their quality products, award-winning stores and community pride. The couple also provides automotive insights in their monthly eNews column, “He Drives, She Drives” and on their automotive blog. To learn more, please visit www.TheReedFactor.com.

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Ford Flexible Michigan Assembly Plant has Makes History with C-MAX

Ford Michigan Assembly Plant – home of the C-MAX assembly line.

Ford is making history, yet again! Ford Flexible Michigan Assembly Plant has made history by launching C-MAX Energy Plug-in Hybrid, that is beating Toyota in fuel economy across the lineup.  It is the only manufacturing site in the world to build vehicles with five different fuel-efficient powertrains on the same line.  Not only that, it is the only manufacturing site to build four vehicles that deliver 40 mpg or more in real-world driving.

Ford plans to deliver eight vehicles for American drivers by the end of the year that deliver 40 mpg or more.  That is a  claim no other full-line automaker can match. The Michigan plant is building half of those, including the C-MAX Energi, C-MAX Hybrid, Focus Electric and Focus SE with SFE – helping Ford complete a lineup that now beats Toyota in fuel economy in every segment where they both compete

“Michigan Assembly Plant is setting a new global standard for flexible manufacturing, and is a central part of Ford’s important milestone, sweeping Toyota across the board for fuel economy leadership,” said Jim Tetreault, Ford vice president of North America Manufacturing. “The transformation of this plant is proof of how our One Ford plan has transformed our products, giving our customers industry-leading choices for hybrids, plug-ins, electrics and EcoBoost-powered vehicles.

To read more and check out a video highlighting the Michigan Assembly Plant, click here.

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