Ford Motor Company has been an industry leader at introducing ideas that prove a car’s environmental impact isn’t limited to what comes out the tailpipe. Ford’s most current addition has been the introduction the SoyFoam that is now replacing the foam material that is used in its headrests.
The SoyFoam is up to 24% more renewable than the previously-used Petroleum-based Formula. It has helped Ford reduce its annual petroleum oil usage by more than 3 million pounds. It has also helped Ford reduce its carbon dioxide emissions by more than 15 million pounds
It was first introduced in the seating of the 2008 Ford Mustang. Now it is used in the seating, back, and headrests with 25 percent of the polyol replaced with soy.
More than seventy-five percent of Ford’s, North American vehicles feature bio-foam in the head restraints, including the
Ford F-150, Ford Taurus,Ford Explorer, and Ford Fusion. All Ford vehicles built in North America use bio-foam content in the seat cushions and backs and now, in its headrests.
Ford continues to research the use of other renewable sources for foam, including palm, rapeseed and sunflower oil in markets around the world where those commodities are locally available and cost effective.
Over the past several years Ford has concentrated on increasing the use of non-metal recycled and bio-based materials whenever possible, provided these materials are environmentally favorable and meet all performance and durability requirements. Examples include soy foam seat cushions and gaskets, wheat straw-filled storage bins, recycled resins for underbody systems, recycled yarns on seat covers and natural-fiber plastic for interior components.
Showing posts with label ford motor company. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ford motor company. Show all posts
Friday, September 9, 2011
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Toyota and Ford to Collaborate on Hybrid Trucks
The Ford and Toyota Motor companies, usually stiff rivals have decided to join forces in an effort to bring a more fuel efficient, hybrid truck to the market. Ford having superior sales on its truck models, and Toyota with the best selling hybrid on the market seems to be the best combination for the job.
The two companies believe that if they work together, they will be able to bring consumers a more affordable technology sooner. The Collaboration will help both Ford and Toyota meet proposed government fuel standards that will require automakers’ fleets to average 54.5 miles per gallon by 2025.
Ford and Toyota signed an agreement to split development costs for hybrid systems, as well as telematics technology to improve information and entertainment systems.
The agreement was prompted by a chance meeting of the Ford CEO and Toyotas President. The next step for the two companies is a study to determine which technologies they will invest in and which vehicles will get them.
It is expected that the partnerships first hybrid trucks will be on the road later in this decade. Candidates include the Ford F-150, Ford Expedition, Toyota Tundra and Toyota Sequoia.
Although the two companies have stated they will only be joining forces with the hybrid technology and will remain competitors, this partnership is a milestone in the industry. It allows for new technology to be released into the market at a faster rate than would be possible if either of the companies would go at it alone.
The two companies believe that if they work together, they will be able to bring consumers a more affordable technology sooner. The Collaboration will help both Ford and Toyota meet proposed government fuel standards that will require automakers’ fleets to average 54.5 miles per gallon by 2025.
Ford and Toyota signed an agreement to split development costs for hybrid systems, as well as telematics technology to improve information and entertainment systems.
The agreement was prompted by a chance meeting of the Ford CEO and Toyotas President. The next step for the two companies is a study to determine which technologies they will invest in and which vehicles will get them.
It is expected that the partnerships first hybrid trucks will be on the road later in this decade. Candidates include the Ford F-150, Ford Expedition, Toyota Tundra and Toyota Sequoia.
Although the two companies have stated they will only be joining forces with the hybrid technology and will remain competitors, this partnership is a milestone in the industry. It allows for new technology to be released into the market at a faster rate than would be possible if either of the companies would go at it alone.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Who Needs a Convertible? Buyers Opting for Sunroofs Instead
There is nothing like riding in a convertible: the wind blowing through your hair, the sun warming your skin. However, recent data shows that consumers are shying away from convertibles and instead investing in a close alternative.
Ford Motor Company reports that while convertible sales are dropping, panoramic sunroofs are on the rise. Of those buying the Ford Explorer and Ford Edge, about half have opted for the sunroof. As for Ford Flex owners, a third added the sunroof. Ford reports that this option costs consumers about $1,600, but it seems to be a price buyers are willing to pay.
Part of the reason sunroofs are becoming more and more popular is because they are just more practical than convertibles. They offer energizing natural sunlight while still securing fuel efficiency; the glass roof is also more architecturally appealing and stylish.
Ford models offer either a panoramic sunroof which consists of one long pane of
glass or a vista roof which comes with two glass panels: one in the front that can be opened and one stationary panel in the back. The glass used on both of these options filters out infrared as well as ultraviolet rays, keeping passengers cool and free of sun burn.
You may not get the wind-blown hair style or adrenaline rush that comes from driving a convertible, but the sunroof does offer some of the same perks in a more practical way. Looks like fuel efficiency and UV protection can be cool after all.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Honeywell Recognized For “Green” Car Tech
It’s 2011 and the buzzword “green” has never been more in the spotlight across many different industries. One of the largest fields to focus on becoming more eco-friendly is the automotive manufacturers. At the recent Automotive News Green Car Conference in Novi, Michigan, Honeywell has been awarded for their advancements in the area of environmental car technology with the creation of their VNT DualBoost Turbo. As one of four recipients honored for “contributions to the automotive industry which also have a positive effect on the health of the environment”, Honeywell’s turbo-charging technology hopes to make cars more “green”.
Ford’s Power Stroke engine, which can be found in the Super Duty truck series, Excursion, and Econoline vans, will rely heavily of the VNT DualBoost Turbo for improvements in fuel efficiency and performance. Honeywell also has included additional improvements like pedestal mounting and low friction ball bearings to reduce noise from vibrations.
“By providing innovative and environmentally responsible solutions like the DualBoost turbocharger, Honeywell helps our customers deliver high performing vehicles that reduce harmful emissions and drive better fuel economy. In the end, it’s further proof that our industry leading turbo technology is providing real value to both automakers and drivers alike,” remarked president and CEO of Honeywell Transportation Systems, Alex Ismail.
Business for Honeywell has been booming with the announcement of the new turbocharger. With more than 3 billion dollars of new business in 2010 alone and expectations that the number will only rise in the future, it’s clear that manufacturers are optimistic about green auto-technology. This year 100 new turbo applications are expected to join the 500 plus applications already in the works.
For more information on the Fortune 500 company Honeywell Internation (NYSE: HON) visit their website at www.honeywellnow.com
Ford’s Power Stroke engine, which can be found in the Super Duty truck series, Excursion, and Econoline vans, will rely heavily of the VNT DualBoost Turbo for improvements in fuel efficiency and performance. Honeywell also has included additional improvements like pedestal mounting and low friction ball bearings to reduce noise from vibrations.
“By providing innovative and environmentally responsible solutions like the DualBoost turbocharger, Honeywell helps our customers deliver high performing vehicles that reduce harmful emissions and drive better fuel economy. In the end, it’s further proof that our industry leading turbo technology is providing real value to both automakers and drivers alike,” remarked president and CEO of Honeywell Transportation Systems, Alex Ismail.
Business for Honeywell has been booming with the announcement of the new turbocharger. With more than 3 billion dollars of new business in 2010 alone and expectations that the number will only rise in the future, it’s clear that manufacturers are optimistic about green auto-technology. This year 100 new turbo applications are expected to join the 500 plus applications already in the works.
For more information on the Fortune 500 company Honeywell Internation (NYSE: HON) visit their website at www.honeywellnow.com
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Ford Motor Company Heads East
As the economic climate of the U.S. remains unpredictable, especially in the automotive industry, Ford Motor Company has decided to take its talents east.
Ford’s joint venture with China, known as Changan Ford Mazda Automobile (CFMA), has upped the ante, investing $500 million in a new engine plant in Chongqing, China. Set to begin production in 2013, the new plant will pump out an estimated 750,000 engines a year, more than double the current amount produced by CFMA.
But the $500 million plant is only one of many steps in Ford’s plan to strengthen its presence in China. In fact, Jiangling Motor Corporation, Ford’s commercial vehicle partner, began building a new $300 million vehicle assembly plant in Nanchang last July. And just two months ago Ford pledged to introduce 15 new cars to China by 2015, increasing its presence and popularity even further.
In addition to the new engine plant, Ford has also signed on to build its first and only transmission plant in China, which is projected to produce 400,000 units annually. With this combination of business deals, Ford expects to have twice as many employees and dealerships than before.
The ground-breaking ceremony for the engine plant was held last week with both Joe Hinrichs, president of Ford Asia Pacific and Africa, and Huang Qifan, Mayor of Chongqing, in attendance. It seems that the east and west are working together just fine.
Ford’s joint venture with China, known as Changan Ford Mazda Automobile (CFMA), has upped the ante, investing $500 million in a new engine plant in Chongqing, China. Set to begin production in 2013, the new plant will pump out an estimated 750,000 engines a year, more than double the current amount produced by CFMA.
But the $500 million plant is only one of many steps in Ford’s plan to strengthen its presence in China. In fact, Jiangling Motor Corporation, Ford’s commercial vehicle partner, began building a new $300 million vehicle assembly plant in Nanchang last July. And just two months ago Ford pledged to introduce 15 new cars to China by 2015, increasing its presence and popularity even further.
In addition to the new engine plant, Ford has also signed on to build its first and only transmission plant in China, which is projected to produce 400,000 units annually. With this combination of business deals, Ford expects to have twice as many employees and dealerships than before.
The ground-breaking ceremony for the engine plant was held last week with both Joe Hinrichs, president of Ford Asia Pacific and Africa, and Huang Qifan, Mayor of Chongqing, in attendance. It seems that the east and west are working together just fine.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Ford Declares It’s Do or Die for Lincoln Dealers
Everyone has heard the saying “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” However, Ford Motor Company seems to be doing just that.
At a meeting held in Detroit last week, Ford CEO Alan Mulally told the Lincoln dealers present that they had two years to complete $1 million worth of renovations on their showrooms. If dealers have joint Ford and Lincoln dealerships, then it’s worth it to dish out $1.9 million on restorations.
And although some Lincoln dealers might welcome this ultimatum, those in disagreement really have no other choice. Ford plans on reclaiming franchises that refuse to invest in refurbishments, taking over the dealerships and providing compensation for the out of work dealers. It really is a “take it or leave it” arrangement.
The reason for all this hubbub is Ford’s wish to revamp its only remaining luxury brand, Lincoln. Ford projects its U.S. Lincoln sales will balloon from the 86,000 units sold in 2010 to 162,000 by 2015. The showroom overhaul is the first step in making Lincoln a more appealing luxury brand.
But Ford is interested in more than just improving its dealerships; it wants to make them exclusive as well. Indeed, the ultimatum only applies to urban dealers at this time. Dealerships who can’t afford the pricey makeover are simply given the boot.
Ford is using this tactic to decrease the number of Lincoln dealers specifically in the top 130 U.S. markets, where 55 percent of its business is derived from. At the close of February, 434 Lincoln dealers were in the top 130 markets. By the end of this year, Ford wants that number to dwindle to 325.
Thus that Lincoln dealer you see when you drive to work or pass on your way home may soon be victim to a grim fate. Or maybe it will be one of the lucky ones, given a new coat of paint and freshly laid carpet. In the eyes of Ford, it seems that either way is fine.
At a meeting held in Detroit last week, Ford CEO Alan Mulally told the Lincoln dealers present that they had two years to complete $1 million worth of renovations on their showrooms. If dealers have joint Ford and Lincoln dealerships, then it’s worth it to dish out $1.9 million on restorations.
And although some Lincoln dealers might welcome this ultimatum, those in disagreement really have no other choice. Ford plans on reclaiming franchises that refuse to invest in refurbishments, taking over the dealerships and providing compensation for the out of work dealers. It really is a “take it or leave it” arrangement.
The reason for all this hubbub is Ford’s wish to revamp its only remaining luxury brand, Lincoln. Ford projects its U.S. Lincoln sales will balloon from the 86,000 units sold in 2010 to 162,000 by 2015. The showroom overhaul is the first step in making Lincoln a more appealing luxury brand.
But Ford is interested in more than just improving its dealerships; it wants to make them exclusive as well. Indeed, the ultimatum only applies to urban dealers at this time. Dealerships who can’t afford the pricey makeover are simply given the boot.
Ford is using this tactic to decrease the number of Lincoln dealers specifically in the top 130 U.S. markets, where 55 percent of its business is derived from. At the close of February, 434 Lincoln dealers were in the top 130 markets. By the end of this year, Ford wants that number to dwindle to 325.
Thus that Lincoln dealer you see when you drive to work or pass on your way home may soon be victim to a grim fate. Or maybe it will be one of the lucky ones, given a new coat of paint and freshly laid carpet. In the eyes of Ford, it seems that either way is fine.
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