Latest Articles by jaystevens

Aria Meet Problems while Creating the Ford Interceptor

Tue, 09 Jan 2007 00:00:00 -0600

Works on the Ford’s Interceptor has begun inside the Aria workshop. And already the crew of the Aria is meeting some problems like body lacking doors, wheels, front fenders, headlights, bumpers, seats or hood. But that is not the worst part yet because four of the guys from Aria are already having a hard time to fit the 400 horsepower V-8 engine into place. Will these guys panic? No not in this business. Panic has no place in the business of building million dollar concept cars and the Interceptor is definitely not an exemption.

The Aria team has never missed a deadline and the Interceptor project with all its problems is not going to be their first failure. And finally after all the problems encountered during the creation of the Interceptor it has left Aria headquarters in perfect condition and just in time last Friday night. The lustrous blue highway cruiser was trucked to Detroit where it will make its debut at the North American International Auto Show. The show will be officially open for the public on January 13, 2007.

Aria on the Interceptor

According to Aria President Clive Hawkins, “Aria has never missed a deadline even if it’s an around-the-clock fight to the finish. But of course the whole process is not without a drama. You’ve got to watch out since tempers usually get a little short which is understandable because building a concept car is a laborious, expensive, and a painstaking process plus the whole time element makes it even more into a temper-rising endeavor.”

The likes of the Interceptor usually cost $1million to $5million dollars or more basically because all the Ford parts used are top-of-the-line. Aside from that, coming up with the solid representation of the concept car is like transferring ideas from the design board to computer and then to reality---and that takes a huge amount of money. And what does the automaker get in return? Just loads of publicity at auto shows which they hope can help them in encouraging buyers to purchase their cars. And the sad part is after investing huge amount of money on the concept car there’s no guarantee that it will go into production.

Building a concept car can usually take 18,000 man-hours. At the Aria workshop most of the parts used for the concept car whether it’s for the body and instrument panel, knob and window - are manually made or created using several hi-tech machines found at the workshop. Plus, the builders often work from nothing other than a full-size clay model of the concept car.

Ford’s advanced design director Freeman Thomas has made regular weekly visits to Aria to check on the progress of the Interceptor as well as to ensure that all the finer details are not left out. Plus he also needs to make sure that all parts fit perfectly so that nothing will go wrong during the auto show.

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Jay Stevens works as a consultant for an established auto parts store in the country. He has expertise in automotive technology and has extensive knowledge on the auto parts industry.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

Ford Beats Chevy As 2006 Best-selling Brand

Fri, 05 Jan 2007 00:00:00 -0600

Plant closures, waning sales, striking losses and job cuts – these and more miseries challenged Ford in the previous years. The miseries seem unending and Ford finds it hard to cope with the challenges. However, one thing that the automaker should be thankful about is the fact that it was named the 2006 Best-selling Brand, a title snatched back from Chevy.

Ford managed to generate enough sales volume in 2006 to get back the much-coveted auto title. Last year, GMs Chevy brand got the title by selling 2,415,059 Chevys and 2,396,532 to Chevrolets. GM, like Ford, also reported 13 percent sales decline in December. For the entire year, Ford suffered an 8.7 percent drop in sales.

However, Ford F-Series parts seem to have retained its victorious stigma. The bread and butter pickup truck of the automaker has won the popularity contest among light trucks. On the one hand, Toyota bagged retained its title among cars. The overwhelming demand for Toyota light trucks boosts the automaker's sales in the United States. Toyota claims that its 2006 sales were up by about 13 percent. Compared to its 2005 sales, Ford's 2006 sales were down by 8 percent. Further, its truck sales is down by 14 percent. This has dragged Ford's performance downwards.

The lackluster plight of Ford has led to the cessation of Taurus and Freestar production. The use of car parts Ford Taurus created a milestone design. Unfortunately, Ford decided to halt production of the mentioned sedan and minivan to focus on Edge and Lincoln MKX. "We suspended production in early November so we could zero in on our production of the Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX," said Anne Marie Gattari,

Freestar, like Taurus, had become largely a vehicle for rental fleets. Also, Ford's minivan sales drop from more than 250,000 units in 2000 to less than 86,000 in 2005. According to Autodata,, Freestar sales dropped by 35 percent through November. Ford intends to resume building minivan early this year. "We're giving our customers what they want," Gattari added.

Ford is expected to cut North American production by 14 percent in the first quarter of 2007. George Pipas, Ford's sales analyst, said it wasn't clear whether the Freestar's elimination would increase that figure. Pipas added, "It's just too early to tell at this point."

Mondeo Shows Off Kinetic Design In Paris

Wed, 03 Jan 2007 00:00:00 -0600

Ford Motor Co. pulls the cover off its newest family car at this year's Paris Auto Show. This is to pave way for an anticipated preview of Mondeo, which boasts its style and exciting charisma brought about by a car philosophy called kinetic design.

"The new Mondeo is critical to the Ford of Europe business," said John Fleming, President and CEO of Ford of Europe. "The Ford Mondeo has always been a major player in the European CD segment, and with over four million owners looking for us to deliver something special, we have every intention of meeting their significant expectations with this all-new model."

Mondeo uses modernized 1967 Ford Galaxy parts and the wonders of the automaker's Shared Technologies. The technology used and its architecture made the car stunning and desirable. According to Ford of Europe, the new system gives the company tremendous flexibility and manufacturing efficiency to respond to market demands and fluctuations.

"The new Mondeo's wagon body style really emphasizes the sporty, dynamic and premium appearance of the new range," said Martin Smith, design director, Ford of Europe. "Above all, we've managed to achieve this kinetic look without compromising luggage capacity. I believe new Mondeo will challenge everyone's perceptions of a big Ford car, and prove that we can once again deliver style with substance in a desirable form." Mondeo's exterior design include high-tech Ford hood ornament, front wings, headlights, fog lights, upper and lower grille, and bumper. The car is also given a wide range of powertrain options - from the Ford Duratorq 2.0-litre TDCi diesel and a high-performance 2.5-litre turbocharged Duratec gas engine, to proficient 1.6-litre Duratec gas and 1.8-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engines.

Joe Bakaj, Ford of Europe's Vice President of Product Development noted, "The new Mondeo Wagon we are previewing at Paris is aimed at preparing our customers for the most exciting and high quality Ford CD car we have ever delivered. The finer technical details will be kept secret for a few more months, but we believe that the Paris showcar's dynamic and kinetic exterior design and stylish, spacious new interior will give a clear indication of how different the new Mondeo range will be. We can't wait to launch it!" All-new Mondeo is set to make its debut during the second quarter of this year.

Auto Mag Awards Top Innovative Auto Contributions

Tue, 02 Jan 2007 00:00:00 -0600

As the year comes to an end, various groups and organizations come up and make lists of those innovative and more than the usual type of contributions in various fields. For example, one auto parts enthusiasts could be giving a store an award for being the dealer of the best Ford Ranchero parts for the year. On the same note, Automobile Magazine, whose web site can be accessed through www.automobilemag.com, has also prepared and announced its set of awardees for its 2007 awards.

According to the editors of the mentioned magazine, they had selected the awardees with a couple of criteria in mind. The list does include a very good combination of the best type of innovation, futuristic thinking, achievement, as well as professionalism in the auto field. The winners of the four major awards would be found in the magazine’s February 2007 issue. These would be available come the 9th of January.

The 2007 Automobile of the Year was awarded to the Volkswagen GTI. Gavin Conway, the editor in chief of the magazine, says, “Our editorial team was unanimous in its decision that the Volkswagen GTI deserved this honor. The latest GTI marks a return to form by Volkswagen, with a car that gives enthusiasts a great driving experience without sacrificing practicality, affordability and fuel efficiency. This is the performance car for a new generation of enthusiasts.”

On the design of the year award, Conway does share, “Without question, the V8 Vantage is the best Aston Martin ever produced. It is a hallmark of great design and arguably the best looking car manufactured in the last couple of decades. Apart from its aesthetic appeal, the Vantage was selected for combining great looks with an outstanding driving experience.” Yes, it was the Aston Martin V8 Vantage that took home the award.

Automobile magazine also gave out the Man of the Year award and they selected Roger Penske for being an icon in the field. Conway relates, “In selecting Roger Penske, we are not only celebrating his career accomplishments, but acknowledging that his impact will be felt within and outside of the automotive industry for years to come.”

The ESC took home the Technology of the Year recognition, which, as Conway describes, “Earlier ESC systems seemed heavy-handed and took away from the driving experience. But even the most demanding drivers on our staff agreed that this year’s Technology of the Year did not interfere with the dynamic rewards of spirited driving.”

Ford, To Introduce Bullitt Edition Mustang in 2007

Thu, 28 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0600

Ford is aiming to produce several versions of performance retro-Mustangs; it will start next year with the introduction of a Bullitt edition. The automaker also intends to bolster versions of MKS, Lincoln flagship.

“We're not just going to put it out there and let the thing die a slow death. We're going to continue freshening this Mustang every single year. In 2007 we've got the new Bullitt version of the Mustang coming out, and I just wish I could talk about the '08s, '09s and '10s," said Jeff Wood, Ford's vehicle program director.

Wood also added that a different Mustang package will be introduced each year until 2010. Mustang is one of the popular cars in Ford lineup these days. To further enhance the image and popularity of the car, the automaker will be incorporating several modifications in special edition Mustangs.

The Bullitt edition Mustang is equipped with a 310-plus horsepower V8 with a lowered suspension and a special interior design. Bullitt edition boasts its classic Ford Mustang parts that convey toughness and longevity. The first retro-styled edition of the vehicle is also given sturdy Ford Mustang wheels.

2007 Bullitt also features plain grille without galloping pony badge or spotlights and a black-painted panel between the taillights. It is intended to resemble the McQueen's '68. Bullitt's artistic design sculpture was created by Italdesign Giugiaro, a company that's sculpted vehicles for many of the world's automakers. The car also uses the plastic wing, retro-style gauges, seats, steel fuel door, and ground effects add-ons conventional to special-edition Mustangs in favor of signature dark green paint. Said version will be available in Highland Green.

The name 'Bullitt' of the first retro-Mustang came from the movie featuring iconic 1968 390 GT, which was used by Steve McQueen. The remarkable movie is still hot at the present time. It still makes hearts beat faster.

The production Mustang was based on Ford Falcon compact. Its first production rolled off in 1964 at Dearborn, Michigan plant. The car was introduced via all three American television networks that time. Said introduction was one of the most successful in car history. After so many decades, Mustang is still one of Ford pride vehicles.

A Retro-Styled Mustang Available in 2010

Fri, 22 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0600

Ford intends to produce a retro-styled Mustang to captivate the fetishes of auto aficionados. The planned version of Mustang will start with a Bullitt edition and it will be introduced next year. The automaker also plans to add a high-output version of Lincoln MKS.

Jeff Wood, Ford Motor Co. Vehicle Program Director said, "A different Mustang package will be unveiled each year until 2010. We're not just going to put it out there and let the thing die. We're not just going to put it out there and let the thing die a slow death. We're going to continue freshening this Mustang every single year. In 2007 we've got the new Bullitt version of the Mustang coming out, and I just wish I could talk about the '08s, '09s and '10s." Wood also announced that Lincoln Town Car and MKS will be boosted by a high-performance package.

The Bullitt edition combines quality 1966 Ford Mustang parts with other auto parts from the automaker. Said edition has special interior and gauge design, lowered suspension, and an exclusive wheel design. It also uses the powerful V8 to produce more than 310 horsepower.

The name 'Bullitt' came from the 1968 film. It is where Steve McQueen has driven a dark green Mustang fastback. Ford has already sold a Bullitt version of the previous-generation Mustang in 2001. The version is equipped with plastic wing as well as ground effects add-ons which are common to special-edition Mustangs. Moreover, it is given the dark green signature paint, retro-style gauges and seats and a refined steel fuel door.

The current production Mustang went on sale last year. Moreover, the automaker thinks that this is the most opportune time to introduce a retro-Mustang. Instead of the Ford's company designers, the automaker relied on the artistic capabilities of Italdesign Giugiaro, a design company that has sculpted vehicles for many of the automakers around the globe.

Wood did not give details about the upcoming versions of Lincoln. However, he said that the regular-version car from the Lincoln will go on sale next year. The 2008 model is equipped with a six-cylinder or V8. The Ford-Yamaha venture intends to produce an engine produces 311 horsepower.

Ford Delivers First Set of Edge

Wed, 20 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0600

Ford enthusiasts are happy to know that their much-awaited Edge crossover is now available. The brand new crossovers from the automaker have begun arriving at dealerships across the country in the last few days.

Among the first customers to take the first delivery of Edge is Mike Stone, a Detroit radio talk-show host, who ordered his Edge SEL nearly three months ago. Stone replaced his 2004 Cadillac CTS in favor of a brand new Ford Edge. "I wanted something new, something American and most important, something that was going to take on this Michigan snow." said Stone.

After driving the newly purchased crossover, Stone noted, "I like it a lot. It's got better pick up than I thought. It actually handles the road and hugs those curves pretty well. I like its SUV-like roominess and car-like ride."

Ford Edge is based on the CD3 platform of the automaker. The crossover has debuted as a 2007 model at the 2006 North American International Auto Show in January. It is built at Ford's Oakville Assembly Complex in Oakville, Ontario, Canada. Edge combines advanced auto parts Ford Explorer with those of the Freestar to create a fascinating new crossover. It is engineered to compete with Hyundai Santa Fe and Chevrolet Equinox. Edge is also a finalist for the North American Truck of the Year award which is the highlight of the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

One of the many reasons that are driving aficionados closer to Edge is the latter's thrilling design. Edge boasts its chrome accents, leather seats, and the 18-inch aluminum wheels Ford. According to sales associate Brian Burke of Tom Holzer Ford, who sold the vehicle to Stone. Burke added that over 2 dozen pre-orders have been placed for the Edge at his dealership even though there were no Edge vehicles on-site to test drive. "I can't think of another vehicle that has generated more excitement," Burke said. "This reminds me of the 1986 Taurus, when Ford came out with something that was totally different in style. And like the Taurus, the Edge takes on different (and unique) styling."

George Pipas, Ford sales analyst said that crossovers will outsell SUVs for the first time in 2006 with 2.4 million units sold compared to 2.1 million SUVs. He added that by 2010, crossover sales should reach about 3 million, while SUV sales slide to approximately 1.75 million.

Car Audios In Full Bloom For 2007

Wed, 20 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0600

What could be more interesting than having your own shiny vehicle, having the best Ford Ranger performance parts in your car, driving around your favorite spot and having your car’s audio system blaring out your favorite piece of music? Wouldn’t that be the best?

Well, one group made out a study and they have found out that for the 2007 model year, a huge amount of the vehicle units would be offering car audio systems as part of the whole deal. This study was done by the Telematics Research Group, or the TRG. According to the mentioned group, some eighty per cent of the 2007 vehicle models that would be going on sale in the United States auto market would be having car audio systems as part of the equipment. However, this is not where the fun ends. These eighty per cent of the vehicles would be actually offering those audio systems with brands.

Phil Magney is the principal analyst of the TRG and he does stress, “As the name implies, branded audio is when Original Equipment Auto Manufacturers partner with a known audio brand to sell premium audio solutions. Well known brands in the consumer audio space such as Harman/Kardon, Bose, and Boston Acoustics top the list, but the list of partners is growing as more automotive OEMs strike up unique marketing partnerships with famous names in audio.”

With consumers and vehicle owners wanting to use their portable media players like MP3s and iPods, most vehicle manufacturers have also made sure that the vehicle units that they would be sending out to the market would be able to play such devices. In fact, TRG was able to find that some three quarters of the whole 2007 model vehicles would be coming with support for such audio files. iPod integration has also been made possible with almost half vehicles for 2007 having an auxiliary input for this musical device.

Magney does continue, “The rapid adoption of available solutions from automotive OEMs is a stark contrast to the normal multi-year product development cycle in the automotive industry. The variety of solutions reflects the swiftly changing landscape of the mobile audio market where branded audio solutions, premium quality and device integration are driving market growth.”

New Edge, Inspired by Bold Design and Quality

Thu, 14 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0600

The new version of Edge crossover utility vehicle from Ford will soon lead car aficionados to a new path that caters to both design and quality enhancement. The cutting-edge astound aficionados with bold design and features. Edge epitomizes style and confidence, which are the aftermaths of 26 months of design innovation.

The Ford Edge is the second vehicle to be launched under Ford Motor Company's new Innovative Design directive," said Peter Horbury, Ford's executive director of design. in North America. "From the get-go, we set our sights on building a CUV that would offer customers the highest all-round quality, value and at a reasonable cost."

Ford Edge design team, which has been set out in 2003, is still budding. Said is responsible for transforming 1966 Ford Mustang parts to create a stunning CUV. Recently, the team was triggered by the passion of elevating Edge to a higher level of elegance, safety, durability and convenience. According to Darrel Behmer, Edge and Lincoln MKX chief designer early in the of Edge and Lincoln MKX program, "We had a young design team, and they all liked the Mustang, but we had very few cars on the market that they were interested in driving. We had the cute-ute Escape and the Explorer, but it is more utilitarian. And of course we have the larger Expedition and Navigator."

Behmer added, “What we didn't have was a really sporty CUV. We were thinking if we can create something that has a more performance-oriented look to it, with really good proportions, we'd hit a sweetspot in the market."

Ford Edge design team saw the forthcoming hence the innovative model of the CUV is redefined to set forth a brand new charisma. Ford's move is anchored on improving its entry to the fastest-growing auto segment in the United States these days, which is the CUV. Young urbanites are now switching to sportier, fuel-efficient, and stylish AWD vehicles that mirror their feisty taste and active lifestyle.

"The modern-looking CUV is going to become more and more competitive as vehicles move into that segment, out of the refrigerator, functional-only segments," said Darrel Edwards, CEO and founder of Strategic Visions. "These more aspirationally designed vehicles are becoming more dominant and have clear competitive advantages."

In addition, said Elaine Bannon, chief nameplate engineer for Edge said, “We designed, engineered and built Edge to our target customer's specifications, which is in line with our Way Forward initiative. We’ve made a lot of these decisions—and a lot of late changes in the program—all in a way that's absolutely customer focused."

Ford, Still King of the Hill

Tue, 28 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0600

Ford Motor Co. is determined to keep its reign as the "King of the Hill." So far, this is the third decade that said automaker is holding the prestigious title in the pickup truck market.

Ford F-150 is the leading pickup truck for 30 years now. This year along, it has 133,000-truck lead over the nearest competitor. There are several attempts to dethrone the F-Series nonetheless; the attempts did not appear strong enough to topple the lingering success of the vehicles.

"Let's remember that F-Series is the benchmark when it comes to trucks," said Cisco Codina, Ford's group vice president, North America Marketing, Sales and Service. "The competition has done some work to try to play catch up. We've been through competitive product reviews, of course, and we see that they have updated some things and have made strides. But we're not sitting back. And we're certainly not playing catch up. They are."

According to auto analysts, to put a dent to the sales and reputation of F-150's, the automaker's competitors must concentrate on an expanded truck-buying target market. Analysts say that the success of Ford's trucks can be attributed to many alliances with organizations like NASCAR, Cabela's, Professional Bull Riders, the Professional Bull Riders, Home Depot, Monster Jam and Harley Davidson.

"Our alliance partners allow us to observe truckers and better understand how they live and work with their trucks," said Ben Poore, Ford truck group marketing manager. "Many members of a group like the American Quarter Horse Association of the Professional Bull Riders drive our trucks. We know how our trucks work in a real environment because we are constantly out there getting feedback from our customers."

Car parts discount Ford F-150 pickup 99-03 boast quality and performance. Truck lovers want more torque hence; the automaker gives it to them. Ford F-150 truck parts, is now equipped with a V8 engine that can handle greater towing and payload capabilities. Further, F-150's maximum tow rating is now up 600 pounds to a class-leading 10,500 lbs.

Ford admitted that the company is concentrating on marketing needs to heighten leadership in the truck market. "We are playing offense with Ford Trucks," said John Felice, Ford general marketing manager, Marketing, Sales and Service. "We created more Ford Truck ads targeted at more diverse audiences than ever to continue increasing leadership by solidifying our base and going after new customers."

Ford is also decreasing the suggested retail prices on the series up to $1,400 lower than this year's prices. The new F-150 FX2 Sport comes in with a dazzling aura. It is equipped with power wheels Ford-150 and dark billet grille. To boost its style, it uses monochromatic paint scheme. Enhanced Ford F-150 headlights with platinum bezels and the sporty front valance add to the enigmatic charm of the truck.