Wednesday, July 22, 2009

The 2010 Ford Model Year Drive Event: Experiencing the latest from Ford Motor Company

2010 Ford Transit Connect - Subcompact Culture
Yesterday, I attended the 2010 Ford Model Year Drive Event at the company's headquarters in Dearborn, MI. At this event, I was able to drive many of the 2010 model-year vehicles, learn about the company's latest technologies, and see what the company is aiming for in the future. And although the event had a strong emphasis on the 2010 Taurus, it was said that many of the new technologies found in Ford's larger vehicles would be spread to all of the Ford offerings in the future.

The day started out with a short bus ride to the company's test track. On the way in, there were a variety of vehicles zooming around the high-banked track—including a couple of camouflaged Ford Fiesta sedan test mules. Perhaps endurance testing?

After our arrival at the Product Review Center (a LEED Silver certified building), we were greeted by several of Ford's execs who talked about the direction of the company with regards to new models, model changes, powertrain changes, and quality standards. As a fan of small cars, it was reassuring to hear that Ford has a commitment to large, medium, and small cars for the U.S. market. An emphasis was placed on the "freshening" of the model lineup, too. Ford acknowledged that it "takes time to reconvince customers" of their brand, but was confident in the direction in which the company is headed. After the short presentations, we broke up into four groups to begin the activities. First stop for my group: The steering and handling course.

Steering and Handling Course
2011 Ford Fiesta - Subcompact CultureThe "steering and handling evaluation track" was the first of two Ford test tracks I would get to experience. This was a tight course with several elevation changes. I didn't have a chance to drive the Fiesta again, which was okay since I'd already done so. However, I was interested in the new-to-the-U.S. Transit Connect, and was able to ride in one.

Ford Transit Connect - Subcompact CultureAlready on sale in Europe for some time, the Transit Connect is a smaller vehicle aimed at the commercial segment. About the length of a Ford Focus, but taller, the Transit Connect (which is launching as we speak ... er type), offers scads of usable interior space in a small package. It's perfect for the person/business that needs a vehicle smaller than a Dodge Sprinter or a pickup truck, but bigger than a typical hatchback. A full write up on the vehicle will be up shortly.

I also got a ride in a battery-electric Ford Focus. That's right—an all-electric Focus. It was just like any other Focus on the inside, although the gauges were different. This vehicle was said to have a range of 70-100 miles on a charge. It was, of course, whisper quiet, too.

I was able to drive a few versions of Ford's larger cars including the Fusion Hybrid, the Fusion Sport, the Ford Edge Sport, and the Mercury Milan. The Fusions are very nice vehicles, indeed, and I was thrilled to see Ford offering the four-cylinder Fusion with a manual transmission option. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to drive the Shelby GT500; but it sure sounded amazing.

Technology Tent
2010 Ford Taurus Cutaway - Subcompact CultureNext stop: The Technology Tent. Here, Ford showcased some of its latest innovations, including its latest voice-activated SYNC with traffic, directions, and information; Adaptive Park Assist (e.g. the car parks itself); Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning systems; and the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS).

Although these technologies were showcased on the all-new 2010 Ford Taurus, the Fusion, and a few Lincoln vehicles, many of these features will eventually be available on Ford's smaller cars, such as the Fiesta and the Focus.

Collision Light - Subcompact CultureI was most impressed with the Collision Warning system, which uses a sophisticated radar in the bumpers to detect if a vehicle is getting too close for comfort. A series of tones and LEDs on the dashboard, which look similar to a third brake light (see image at right) notifies drivers of an upcoming obstacle ... like a car you're hoping NOT to hit. However, unlike its cousin, Volvo, the Ford products won't automatically apply the brakes. It's a technology Ford said its customers may not be ready to embrace yet. The crash-sensing radar monitors up to 600 ft. in front of the vehicle; it's pretty cool technology that Ford said might even be required on all cars in the future.

Alan Mulally - Subcompact CultureNext it was time for lunch with everyone, including some Ford execs. Even Ford CEO Alan Mulally stopped in (at left). It was interesting to talk with some of the Ford executives, as well as other media folk to get their take on what they'd seen during the first half of the day. Next stop: The EcoBoost Challenge.

EcoBoost Challenge
The EcoBoost Challenge pitted several competing vehicles from other manufacturers against EcoBoost-equipped Fords. EcoBoost is what Ford is calling its newest engine family. The theory behind the EcoBoost is smaller displacement, turbo-charged powerplants that deliver better fuel economy and performance than larger, normally aspirated engines, while spewing fewer emissions. For example, the first offering, a 3.5-liter, direct-injection, twin-turbo V-6, will be offered in vehicles such as the new (and, IMHO, very attractive) Ford Tarus SHO, the Flex, and some Lincoln models. It's designed to produce V-8 power, too (ala 365hp in the SHO). So what's this have to do with small cars? We'll have to see.

Ford EcoBoost Turbos - Subcompact CultureFord did announce a 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4 engine (single turbo), most likely for the Fusion (possibly a hot Focus setup?). Officially, I couldn't get much info about a Fiesta with a small EcoBoost engine. Since the Fiesta hasn't launched yet, Ford was pretty hush-hush about engine options. However, a Ford representative did say that an EcoBoost-powered Fiesta was "more than just a rumor."

I did get to drive Ford Flex with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost and it did indeed scoot. (The seven-passenger Flex could be one of the best road-trip vehicles out there, by the way). I rode in an EcoBoost Taurus SHO, and it was damn quick. I drove a 2010 Mustang GT on the track, and I'm not going to lie: It was awesome and I want one. (I love lots of different cars, and love the sound of a lot of cars, but few cars sound as good to me as the Mustang GT!) Driving on the high-banked test track was a real trip. Entering the track was like playing Gran Turismo!

Quality and Powertrain
Last stop on the event was the quality and powertrain tent. Here, Ford discussed its latest push to produce a top-quality products. There were several experts in their fields, including automotive interior design, and component sound quality. Excuse me—"component sound quality?" Indeed, there is a person who specializes in things such as the sound the door makes when it closes. The sound of the warning chimes. The noise the shifter makes when moved. I found this fascinating, especially since I thought I was the only person who noticed the sound of a manual transmission's shifter. (I love the sound of my Suzuki SX4's shifter. I do not love the Kia Rio 5's.)

On the powertrain side of things, there was a lot of talk about the EcoBoost engines. Here Ford said the 2.0-liter EcoBoost four cylinder would produce 230 hp and 240 ft./lbs. of torque (yes please). As previously mentioned: No official word on an EcoBoost-powered Fiesta at this time.

There was also a lot of discussion regarding hybrids. Interesting fact: Ford currently offers the highest top speed in electric mode of any gasoline-electric vehicle at 47 mph. Additionally, Ford said it will have four electrified vehicles by 2012, including a Transit Connect battery-electric, the Focus battery-electric, a plug-in hybrid, and another vehicle. Maybe a hybrid Fiesta?

Overall, the experience was very cool. Lots of neat people, lots of cool technology, and a look into the future at Ford. The company definitely appears to be heading in the right direction with regards to its product offerings, quality control, technology, and environmental concerns. As you're probably aware, I am very much looking forward to the official launch of the 2011 Fiesta in about a year, and anticipate some of the company's latest technology trickling down to its small car offerings.

2010 Ford Lineup - Subcompact Culture

23 comments:

sleeksilver said...

Great write up!

You aren't the only one who is excited about the possibility of an EcoBoost Fiesta or Focus! Fiesta ST or Focus ST anyone? I thought it would be neat to have a boosted Transit Connect, but that is something the market probably doesn't want or need.

It was nice to meet you up in Dearbone!

-Mitch | HondaSUV.com

Andy Lilienthal said...

Hey Mitch-

Glad you liked it. It was good to meet you. And indeed--an EcoBoost-powered Transit Connect would rule. I wonder how hard it would be to put the 2.5 EcoBoost in?

D2M said...

You know, despite what people say, Ford makes some really good vehicles. I would have bought a Ford if I hadn't been insistent on a hatchback.

It's good to hear they're making some strides to earn their customers trust back! :)

Unknown said...

Dang, that must have been a neat event to attend. I really like Ford and I was determined to get a Fiesta until the Cash for Clunkers bill passed. Now I'll be cruising in an 09 Honda Fit Sport, but I bet come Summer of 2010 I'll be looking longingly at the new Fiestas. I really hope Ford can pull out of this mess without needing gov't assistance - they've got some great product out there!

Andy Lilienthal said...

I do have to applaud Ford for their ability to proceed without government assistance. Truly, and I'm not just saying this, Ford has a really good product line for 2010, and it should continue to get even better over the next few year.

Ford is making a number of cars that appeal to me. I owned a 2001 Ford Focus ZX3, and it was a great car. I had some problems with it, and traded it in prematurely (possibly the dumbest financial move I've ever done).

Unknown said...

I'm in the same boat as you, Andy. I'm really proud that Ford refused the bailouts. I'll never purchase another GM or Chrysler but I'll definitely be looking at Fords in the future. Glad you enjoyed the Mustang GT too! I recently saw an '08 Mustang Bullitt cruising through my town and became green with envy. I'll always be partial to small cars but I do appreciate autos of all shapes and sizes.

With that said, the Transit Connect is one of the worst looking vehicles I've ever seen. Completely practical but it looks like the cars I used to doodle during class in grade school.

Very cool writeup! Thank you for sharing!

Harold Fowler said...

Ford has always been way ahead of their game!

Jess
www.online-privacy.us.tc

Unknown said...

Hate to spoil the fun, but this so called "new" lineup for 2010 has already been driving around for almost two years in Europe.....
Just my two cents.

Andy Lilienthal said...

True enough ... however, it is new to the U.S., and that's a pretty big deal.

Anonymous said...

Hopefully they will return to the days of yesteryear when America's auto industry dominated the world. This country though is being jerked around by a one sided government and administration that will surely make Ford's leap pf faith a challenge.

Lisa@ Cool Math Games said...

Looks like a pretty cool car, great for surfing!

Car Vehicles said...

Love it! I want one. Nice post.

Anonymous said...

These vehicles all look like ass.. what are they thinking? This is the future of Ford? I thought it was a joke.

sleeksilver said...

"Anonymous said...

These vehicles all look like ass.. what are they thinking? This is the future of Ford? I thought it was a joke.

September 29, 2009 4:14 PM"

How so?

They are doing far better than any domestic automaker.

Civicep3 said...

I've hated Fords (with the exception of the Mustang) ever since I saw how awesome their Euro line up was in the late 80's.

It's great to see them giving us those same great cars! I'd actually consider buying one. Turbo charged hatches! Yum, now if only they can find a way to slap some AWD, and keep the price/weight down!

alyssa said...

I think there ugly

myBeepBeep "Oil Change" app said...

I drive a Mercury Mariner Hybrid and love it. Ford makes a good product.

Bora Paris said...

Made in China? It looks like Chery,

Anonymous said...

The Transit Connect would make a cool 1970's Econoline van replacement.

Airbrushed with dark peaks, jaguars, and lightning with a skylight, ski/bike/boat racks and living space inside, it'd be a great RV.

Seriously though, go Ford, and finally! I'll forgive you for my '92 F.O.R.D. Taurus if you keep on in this direction.

Andy Lilienthal said...

You should check out the modified Transit Connect Ford showed at last year's SEMA Show:

Ford Transit Connect Concept

Anonymous said...

Focus ST? Meh, Give us the RS!!

Anonymous said...

hi the wife just bought a 2010 ford flex with the 3.5liter echo-boast engine is there a chip for to give more horsepower etc mpztoy@cogeco.ca or call me 905-825-3906 ask for mike leaving for florida with the flex nov 13 so would like to know where i can by this chip if there is one

ford said...

Ford 2010 model is going to be launched as EcoBoost Fiesta,everybody is deperately waiting for the ford,as i totally agree whatever the ford is goin to bring in market would be blast.
Ford is being always a dazzling product in market...

Ford trucks for sale