2010 Ford Figo: 4 videos for your viewing pleasure
Following the reveal of the 2010 Ford Figo hatchback for the Indian market, we have managed to source a total of four videos of the Figo courtesy of Youtube, including a promo and videos of the reveal. The 2010 Ford Figo will go into production at Ford’s plant in Chennai by early next year. More will be revealed soon! Meanwhile, continue reading to watch all four videos.
MkV Fiesta-based 2010 Ford Figo revealed in India
UPDATE: 4 videos added for your viewing pleasure.
Ford has officially revealed the 2010 Ford Figo for the Indian market. The Figo, colloquial Italian for “cool”, is based on the Fiesta MkV, but with a renewed front fascia, that is treated to Ford’s kinetic design language. Unfortunately, the auto maker did not release information regarding the 5-door hatchback’s drivetrain options and pricing, but expect it to do so soon, before the Figo goes into production early next year.
Speaking about production, the Figo will be manufactured at Ford’s expanded integrated manufacturing facility near Chennai, which is undergoing a $500 million transformation to become a regional centre for Ford small car production. Ford’s President and CEO, Alan Mulally also attended the reveal, and said, “Our exciting new Ford Figo shows how serious we are about India. It reflects our commitment to compete with great products in all segments of this car market. We are confident the Ford Figo will be a product that Indian consumers really want and value.”
According to the auto maker, the Ford Figo is designed and engineered to compete in India’s small car segment, which accounts for more than 70% of the new vehicle market. The refurbished plant is expected to roll out about 200,000 units a year and the Figo models will be produced at the plant for export to international markets. The plant is also being groomed to produce diesel and petrol engines for local vehicle production and export within Ford’s Asia Pacific and Africa region.
The plant will also introduce a new eco-friendly paint technique called the Three-Wet High-Solids paint process. This approach is said to produce a nicer paint finish, with three wet coats – primer, base coat and clear coat – of high solids-content paint applied one after the other without oven curing between coats. Use of high-solids content results in a paint finish with high levels of gloss and depth of colour which is more resistant to scratches and stone chips.
So why is it eco-friendly? Well that’s because the process produces fewer carbon dioxide emissions and reduces volatile organic compounds emissions by about 20% compared to current medium-solids solvent-borne paints. Continue reading to view an image gallery.
Frankfurt 2009: Ford C-MAX and Grand C-MAX compact MPVs officially revealed
American-based Ford, has officially revealed both the C-MAX compact MPV and its 7-seater version the Grand C-MAX at the Frankfurt motor event. For the European market, both the 5-seater and 7-seater MPVs are motivated by the auto maker’s new 1.6 liter EcoBoost powerplant, with direct injection and turbocharging.
Joining the engine will be other TDCi diesel and petrol engines. Both models will arrive in major European cities by late 2010 and the auto maker also confirmed that the Grand C-MAX will cross the Atlantic, into the US by late 2011, joining the new Fiesta, the Transit Connect commercial van and the next-generation Ford Focus. Continue reading to view image galleries of both models.
Ford reveals the Grand C-MAX 7-seater MPV
After revealing the 5-seater C-MAX compact MPV, American auto maker Ford, has announced the 7-seater version called the Grand C-MAX. Just like the 5-seater version, it will be powered by a number of engine options, including Ford’s new 1.6 liter EcoBoost 4-cylinder powerplant, with direct injection that should output 178HP. It comes with sliding rear doors, push button ignition and more. Along with the 5-seater model, it is expected to hit the European market by mid next year and the auto maker is also considering to offer the compact MPV across the Atlantic in the US. Continue reading to view an image gallery.
Ford reveals the 2010 Ford C-MAX compact MPV
Ford has finally revealed the 2010 C-MAX compact MPV, ahead of its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Along with some high-res images, we do know that the 2010 C-MAX will be offered in two forms, one is a 5-seater version while the other is a 7-seater version.
Inspired by the Iosis MAX Concept that was shown at this year’s motor show in Geneva, the C-MAX is underpinned by a platform that will be used for the next-generation Ford Focus. The compact MPV will also be motivated by Ford’s new 1.6 liter EcoBoost 4-cylinder powerplant, with direct injection that should output 178HP. It will go on sale in Europe by mid of next year. More information will be released once the compact MPV hits the stand at the motor show. Meanwhile, continue reading to view an image gallery.
400HP V8 for the 2011 Ford Mustang GT
We have news that the 2011 Ford Mustang GT will be powered by a new 5.0 liter aluminum engine, that could develop 400HP and 542Nm of torque. This is to enable it to compete with the 426HP Camaro SS. There will also be a new Track Pack, that will include sticky Pirelli P Zero Corsa R-compound tires (also used on the Aston Martin One-77) . The current Track Pack is made up by Pirelli P Zero P255/40ZR-19 tires, stabilizer bars (front and back) and retuned struts and shocks. The 2010 Ford Mustang GT, sadly, only develops 315HP from its retuned 4.6 liter V8.
Ford Fiesta to take over Focus’ responsibilities in WRC
Pictured above is the Australian Ford Fiesta S2000R rally car.
The Ford Focus has been representing the “Blue Oval” company in the World Rally Championship for the past 11 years, and now the Fiesta is set to take over the job. The all new Ford Fiesta S2000 rally car, which is being developed by M-Sport, will be available to private teams or customers next year, and we can expect a factory team in 2011.
The Fiesta S2000 rally car will be included in WRC’s World Cup championship, which is for Super 2000 rally cars. The car has been with M-Sport for the past three months, and is expected to be on the road sometime next month. Malcolm Wilson, the firm’s boss said, “The Fiesta S2000 rally car is really starting to take shape now. We have been spurred on by the announcement last week of Ford’s two-year commitment to the World Rally Championship and the introduction of the Fiesta S2000 as its car to campaign the 2011 series.”
“Next year features the introduction of the World Cup for S2000 cars within the WRC and will give privateers and teams alike a real chance to challenge for victory in a new car which has been built with all our technical expertise and experience,” he concluded.
Technical Director Christian Loriaux also added, “All of the design has now been completed and our excellent in-house facilities at Dovenby Hall have allowed us to challenge our theories through live testing. All aspects of the new car are progressing according to schedule and we are very pleased with the progress so far.”
300HP Ford Focus RS taken to the Nurburgring
The fire breathing Ford Focus RS was recently taken to the notorious Nurburgring circuit. Behind the wheel was Horst von Saurma-Jeltsch, an avid circuit driver and editor of Sport-Auto magazine. Saurma-Jeltsch managed to set a lap time of 8 minutes and 26 seconds, which is about 30 seconds quicker than the time set by the Ford Focus ST, which is good for 225HP. Continue reading to watch the video. There is also another version of the same video.
Ford UK reveals a racy Transit SportVan
Ford’s UK division has launched a new sporty variant of its Transit SportVan people mover. Based on the short wheel base Transit, the new model is specified with Le Mans styled racing stripes on the hood, along with 18-inch alloy wheels fitted with low profile 235/45 tires, front and rear lower spoilers, side skirts, extended wheel arches as well as an exhaust tailpipe finished with a twin end.
Apart from the above, Ford has also added cruise control, power windows, 6-CD-player with controls mounted on the steering-column, power and heated mirrors, tinted glass, velour trim, air conditioning, a perimeter alarm as well as leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob.
The special edition Transit SportVan is powered by the auto maker’s 140 HP 2.2-litre TDCi diesel, mated to a 6 speed manual cog box. Offered in three colour options including white with blue stripes, Panther Black with silver stripes and Sea Grey with silver stripes, the SportVan, which is limited to 80 units only, can you be yours for £22,030. Continue reading to view more high-res images.
Ford Focus X Road special edition model launched for the Dutch market
Ford Europe has officially launched the special edition Ford Focus X Road for The Netherlands. Only 300 units will ever be produced, and each costs €25,175. The Focus X Road special edition model that is based on the Focus Station Wagon is offered only with the 1.8 liter 4-cylinder biofuel powerplant that is also good for 125HP.
With the biofuel functionality, the engine can be powered by regular petrol or E85 bioethanol. The new station wagon features a special off-road bodykit, unique front and rear bumpers, protective trim on the fender arches and on the sides, aluminum underbody skid trays as well as newly designed 17-inch alloy wheels. Continue reading to view a high-res image gallery.
Ford’s new turbocharged 2.0 liter EcoBoost: First RWD to get it would be the Australian market Falcon
US-based auto maker Ford recently announced a new petrol-fueled, turbocharged 2.0 liter 4-cylinder EcoBoost powerplant that also features Twin-Independent Variable Cam Timing (Ti-VCT). The new engine is said to deliver an output figure that is equivalent to a normally aspirated V6, but with improved fuel economy, by about 10 to 20%. Although the auto maker did not reveal official power figures, but you can safely expect about 230HP and 325Nm of torque at 2,000 revs.
On that note, the auto maker just revealed that the new 2.0 liter EcoBoost’s first RWD application will involve the Ford Falcon, which is offered down south in Australia. The 2.0 liter EcoBoost Falcon model is expected to hit the market by 2011. Ford Australia also announced that it plans to introduce a 2.7 liter V6 turbo diesel into the Ford Territory SUV range soon. The 2.7 liter turbo diesel was co-developed with Peugeot-Citroen PSA, and it can offer lower fuel consumption figures compared to the 4.0 liter 6-cylinder petrol engine. Ford also plans to introduce an LPG-variant Falcon, although it did not reveal further information regarding launch dates.
Ford working on laser ignition that may replace conventional spark plugs
UPDATE: Comparison video added.
Scientists at Liverpool University and Ford are working on a new type of ignition, that may well replace conventional spark plugs in the future. This novel approach, in the form of laser beams, allows better engine starts, in various conditions including during cold weather.
Laser ignition would also require less energy compared to traditional spark plugs, that have been around for the past 100 years. Laser, which translates into more stable ignition, is beamed through thin optical fibers into the engine’s cylinders where a lens will focus the beam into high intensity pinprick of light. Petrol is then sprayed into the chamber, which then results into ignition.
Project leader Tom Shenton said, “We are running engines everyday in our laboratory with this system now and our ultimate objective is have it inside cars driven by consumers. Lasers can be focused and split into multiple beams to give multiple ignition points, which means it can give a far better chance of ignition.” He also added that, “This can really improve the performance of the engine when it is cold, as this is the time when around 80 per cent of the exhaust emissions are produced and the engine is at is least efficient.”
The project has been awarded a £200,000 grant from UK’s Carbon Trust and it was revealed that Ford is looking to implement this new system into its range topping products in the future. To learn more about the system, please click here. Meanwhile continue reading to watch a short comparison clip.
Source: iCars UK
Ford gets US$ 5.9 billion government loan to develop fuel-saving technologies, Electric-Focus to arrive in 2011
American-based auto maker, Ford which has not applied for any government bailout, has been granted a US$ 5.9 billion loan by the US Goverment, to help develop various fuel-saving technologies.
According to Ford, these technologies include hybrid-electric systems, alternative-fuel power plants, direct-injection development, dual clutch transmissions, vehicle weight reduction as well as aerodynamic efficiency. The auto maker then revealed that a “pure battery electric”, or BEV Ford Transit Connect commercial van will be introduced in 2010. There will also be a BEV Focus, that will arrive in 2011.
The Transit Connect will be co-developed with Smith Electric U.S, while Ford will work with Magna for the development of the emissions free Focus. The auto maker will also introduce a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) and a next generation hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) in 2012.
“This green partnership between Ford and the U.S. Government will help accelerate the development of advanced technologies for even better fuel efficiency and emissions. Ford is absolutely committed to fuel economy leadership with every new model we introduce. In fact, we plan to invest nearly $14 billion in advanced technology vehicles in the next seven years,” said the auto maker’s CEO, Alan Mulally.
800HP Ford Fiesta Rallycross for the Pike’s Peak International Hill Climb?
American based auto maker Ford has announced that the new Ford Fiesta will make its American motorsports debut at the upcoming Pike’s Peak International Hill Climb event in Colorado on July 19th. Two cars are being set up for the event by Sweden’s Olsberg Motor Sport Evolution team, and each car will be piloted by top rally drivers including Marcus Gronholm and Andreas Eriksson (who is also the team manager).
Most interesting fact, is that the Fiesta will have a total of 800HP for the event, thanks to a highly-tuned 2.0-liter Duratec that is mated with an all wheel drive setup, along with a sports suspension. Imagine all that power in a tiny hatch? Talking about power to weight ratio!
The Pike’s Peak International Hill Climb dates back to 1916 and is the second oldest motor sports event in America, taking its name from the famous mountain peak that towers above Colorado Springs in the Rocky Mountains and is often referred to as “The Race to the Clouds.” The team is very optimistic and revealed that it aims to become the first team to break the 10-minute mark over the 12.4-mile, 156-turn pavement and gravel course. For us back home, the new 96HP 1.4 liter Fiesta can be yours for S$ 62,888.
Ford Focus RS coming to US? Not really
Although it would be nice to have the Focus RS offered in the US, but due to high homologation costs for the North American market, the Focus RS would not make it over the Atlantic.
Jost Capito, Ford’s head of global performance division told Autocar that “We’d like to, but the base car isn’t homologated for North America and that’s too costly a job to carry out just for a niche vehicle like the RS.” This came after a Ford Focus RS was actually spotted in Michigan about a month ago.
Ford launches the Fiesta Sport Edition in Europe
Ford, which is definitely doing much better in terms of managing itself during the current world economic downturn than its other American counterparts like General Motors and Chrysler has officially launched the Fiesta Sport Edition (3-door body style) for the European market. The sportier compact hatch is powered by either a 96HP 1.4 liter or a 120HP 1.6 liter from the petrol family or a 90HP 1.6 liter TDCi turbo diesel.
Other upgrades to enable the re-worked Fiesta to stick on the road better include stiffer springs, new absorbers, a lowered suspension (by 9 mm), a re-tuned steering system as well as an ESP system that can be completely switched off. On the outside, the new model gets a new lower grille with a new front apron, side skirts, rear apron, dark headlights as well as an integrated rear diffuser. The Sport Edition is also treated to newly designed 16-inch alloy wheels that are wrapped with sports tires.
Potential buyers can choose between two interior trim options, including anthracite or blue. The rest of the interior is made up by sports front seats, leather steering wheel and gear lever knob and other equipments offered as standard including height-adjustable driver’s seat, air conditioning, electric windows and locks as well as an on board computer. Recently, local distributor Regent Motors has launched the standard Ford Fiesta for the Singaporean market, please click here to learn more about it.
Ford Capri to make a comeback? YES!
Being a classic car nut, I tend to get excited when I hear about classic cars that are given a revival. This time, in a form of a rendered speculation, a new Capri is now rumored to make a comeback. Apparently Ford wants to go head to head with Volkswagen’s Scirocco, and it may do this by producing a new 2+2 performance coupe. Andrei Avarvarii has come up with an artist impression of the new Capri. It has a front design that features Ford’s current design language and at the back, it has a tail gate.
The new Capri is expected to feature a front wheel drive setup although the original one was rear wheel drive, if it goes into production that is. There may even be an RS model, with Ford’s current 300HP found in the Ford Focus RS. If it goes into production, we can probably see it by 2012. Rumor also has it that Ford will present a concept version at the upcoming 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show later this year. The original Ford Capri was offered as an European substitute of the Ford Mustang. The Mk1 Capri’s are desirable classics right now, thanks to its sweet “coupe-ish” design. Continue reading to view an image of the rear.
Source: AutoExpress
Ford Focus RS: Quick Drive in the U.K!
Our man in the UK had a chance to test drive the Focus RS in and around Leeds recently, have a look to see what you think of the new RS. The Editor
The Ford Focus RS will go on sale in the UK in May which so far, has received 2000 + orders, is expected to produce just over 4000 units in their Saarloius factory in Germany. I had the opportunity to drive the RS and the first thing you will notice is the fact that it stands out. Yes, the only colours available with the RS are Performance Blue, Frozen White and Incredible Hulk green (official name electric green) which symbolizes the partnership between BP and the Focus’s rally efforts.
I slipped into the fully kitted out Focus RS (Luxury Pack 2) which includes keyless start, a digital central console which controls all the car’s non driving functions, auto dim rear-view mirrors and tyre deflection systems. It was an interesting moment in my life, as for once I actually took my time to savour the idiosyncrasies of the car before jumping in to start that 2.5-liter Duratec. Click goes the start button and boom! Now that was an orgasm.
Pulling out there was a sense of calm and refinement under the gurgling of the engine, as the car made no qualms getting into gear and snaking away. Steering controls were set at standard which gave it a good level of feedback you would expect from any road going car, through the console in between the rev and spedometer. This basically means that you let the techno-gadgetry of the car do all the corrections and cancellation. The sport mode steering felt heavy and connected directly to the front tyres very much like a Cooper S apart from the fact that its constantly turned on in the Mini. The other option was the standard which i would imagine is more suited for city driving.
Continue reading for the rest of the report and to view an image gallery.
New Focus revealed for the global market. Coming to a showroom near you in 2010.
Ford’s plan for the future was to make a car from the Focus family that will be marketed to all parts of the world thus saving costs on various elements. Auto Express has details of the new member of the family and it will feature design stylings from the Iosis MAX but will maintain the Focus branding.
Set for a 2010 release, it will feature Fords new line of compact turbocharged engines in its Eco Boost range, which if used correctly can save fuel without hindering performance. The most basic will be an amazing 1.0-liter four cylinder engine that will be producing either 89bhp or 108bhp. But the bulk of sales is expected to come from the 1.6-liter turbo petrol with 148bhp or 178bhp outputs.
Diesel, diesel, diesel is what we seem to hear everyday and Ford is no different, offering a 1.6 TDCi, delivering up to 128bhp, and a brand new 2.0-litre with 168bhp or 197bhp. Manual gearboxes will be standard and the optional Powershift twin-clutch transmission will be made available along with start stop technology.
The chassis will be a reworked version of the current focus and it has been said that sharp steering and driver appeal hasn’t been sacrificed to accommodate a higher level of refinement.
Changes to the exterior include a new front end, a large lower grille and stretched headlights. At the back, a high tail reminiscent of the Iosis Max along with angular c-pillars.
AutoExpress say that the interior might feature a glass roof which will give that extra bit of roominess. The cabin is said to feature Ford’s Human Machine Interface control System on the central console but will be a toned down version of the concept’s interior.
The Focus will be presented at the same time as the C-MAX compact MPV and the will be built in Ford’s plant in Saarlouis, Germany and Valencia, Spain respectively.
Regent Motors launches the Ford Fiesta for local consumption!
Regent Motors, Singapore’s official distributor of Fords, has launched the latest Ford Fiesta for the local market. The new Fiesta, which design is influenced by the Verve Concept which was previewed in 2007 at the Frankfurt Motor Show and by Ford’s Kinetic design language is powered by a 1.4 liter petrol engine that is good for an adequate 96HP that is coupled with a 4 speed automatic transmission.
With the automatic tranny, the Fiesta features a fuel consumption figure of 43.4 miles to the gallon (combined cycle), while emissions output is rated at 154 grams per kilometer.
Based on the Mazda 2, the hot hatch measures 3950 mm long, 3950 mm long and 1433 mm high and features a 1490 mm wheelbase. As standard, the Fiesta comes with 15-inch alloy wheels, twin airbags, ABS with EBD, as well as ISOFIX child seat mounts.
Other features offered by Ford include, rain-sensing wipers, auto-headlight activation, headlamp courtesy delay, Bluetooth with Voice Control, MP3 and USB connector, Electric Power Assisted Steering and more.
Regent Motors offers the Fiesta in both 3-door and 5-door variants, and both models carry the same S$ 62, 888 price tag, inclusive of COE. The distributor also revealed that the Fiesta comes with a S$ 5,000 discount, and it did not mention for how long the promotion will last.
Ford reveals the limited edition Mondeo Estate Sport for the German market
Ford has launched a limited edition Mondeo Estate Sport exclusively for the German market. Based on a limited 500-unit production run, the Mondeo Estate Sport comes with three different engines including a 145HP 2.0 liter petrol unit and two engines from the turbo diesel family such as the 140HP 2.0 liter Duratorq and the 175HP 2.2 liter Duratorq.
On the outside, this special edition model is treated to MS-Design front and rear bumper aluminum trims, 17-inch alloy wheels, tinted windows and silver roof rails. Over on the inside, you would be surrounded by, among others, sport seats finished in a combination of leather and cloth, aluminum pedals, decorative aluminum trim on the dashboard and on the instrument panel. Prices for this special model start from 29,150 Euros.
Continue reading to view more images of the Mondeo Estate Sport.
Ford Iosis Max revealed at Geneva
The Iosis Max has been revealed and we at icars like the new concept design. Taking styling cues from their ‘Kinetic’ library, it features well thought out practical features that create beautiful design. You really start to see what Kinetic styling entails, as with previously released models such as the Ka, and Fiesta, which can be seen in the Iosis Max. I still can’t put it into words but I have a sneaky suspicion that Ford is planning something big for this form of design. Maybe a patent? You can’t put it past a major automotive organization to come up with out-of-the-box ideas to generate revenue.
Ford to axe high performance cars from now on?
Apparently words are being exchanged within the automotive fraternity that Ford may discontinue its plans to build high performance vehicles all together. It seems that Ford has issued a statement via an unnamed source that the auto maker wants to emphasize more on eco-friendly vehicles such as electric cars and hybrids.
The statement also revealed that the Ford Focus RS would be the “last” vehicle from the performance category. Does this also mean that there would not be a GT500 anymore? Anyway, it is just a speculation thus far as we are still waiting for an official word. I just hope that this stays as a speculation or rumor. It would be very weird not to have Ford producing high performance vehicles, especially with some excellent reviews about the latest RS.
300HP Ford Focus RS tested by Jason Plato of Fifth Gear: Video!
Jason Plato of highly rated auto review TV show; Fifth Gear has tested the new the 300HP with earth shattering 440Nm of torque Ford Focus RS, at a mountainous location, on test-friendly twisting roads.
The 2009 Focus RS, which is the most powerful Focus ever received some pretty good reviews by the British Touring Car Championship-contender. Although he pointed out that the sprint figure is not really up to his expectation, but it handled beautifully.
He also went on to mention that the slight turbo lag helped reduce torque steer, especially when exiting a corner with the accelerator pedal completely pressed. Torque steer occurs when you put a powerful engine into a front wheel drive car, like the RS.
When you accelerate hard, the huge amount of torque pulls the steering wheel to the left and right, meaning you have to hold the steering wheel as though your life depends on it. Its also not good if you are trying to set a quick lap around a circuit. This problem was also evident with the Mini John Cooper Works, but having a little torque steer is quite fun actually.
Continue reading to watch the 4 minute 11 second-long review, enjoy!
300HP Ford Focus RS goes through assembly lines in Germany
Ford’s most powerful hatchback ever, the Focus RS has recently started to roll off production lines in Saarlouis, Germany and European buyers can expect deliveries as soon as April. The RS is being built along side other, more down to earth Euro Fords but Ford reiterated that specialized technicians were deployed to fit certain performance parts such as the front differential.
The front wheel drive Focus RS is powered by a 300HP Volvo derived 2.5 liter turbocharged inline 5 power plant with 440Nm of torque and features a front differential to help tame torque steer during hard acceleration, something which occurs on a frequent basis with the 200HP Mini John Cooper Works. Click here for full details about the Focus RS.
UAW Rally outside the Detroit Motor Show?
While many auto manufacturers are presenting their latest products to the world, dozens of workers and supporters from the UAW (United Auto Worker) organization are rallying outside Cobo Hall which is hosting this year’s auto show at Detroit. According to Detroit News, auto workers and supporters are rallying to defend their earnings from possible pay cuts which might be implemented by General Motors and Chrysler.
Last week UAW representatives met officials from GM and Chrysler to discuss wages and benefits in response to the government’s call for cutting operational costs. GM and Chrysler have to make such reductions in order to continue receiving financial aids from the U.S Government. Last year the U.S Government granted a total of U.S $ 17.4 billion to the struggling auto makers and part of the agreement requires the auto makers to present restructuring plans to the government by March 31st 2009.
UAW workers can receive up to U.S $ 70 per hour including benefits such as hospital and drug benefits, dental and vision benefits, group life insurance, disability benefits, supplemental unemployment benefits, pension payments during retirement, unemployment compensation and payroll taxes. Pay cuts can reduce salaries by half which is quite scary for them.
But the thing is, auto workers from GM, Chrysler and Ford earn a lot more than workers from other auto manufacturers. It shouldn’t be hard to understand why the U.S Government is pushing for lower wages. A worker from GM; Bill Bagwell said, “We have families. You take that away and there’s a huge negative impact”. With such high wages, its no surprise that the top three are suffering financially.
Photo: Detroit News.
Ford Ranger Max – Production version caught in Thailand!
A member of Thailand’s Ford Club managed to snap this photo of a Ford Ranger Max in its production form. The Ranger Max was unveiled as an orange concept at the Thai Moto Expo about a month ago. The photo indicate that the production version will feature design cues which was first unveiled on the concept including the aggressive front fascia. The Ford Ranger Max will be made available for the Asian and European markets. We will bring you more information soon!
Meanwhile, continue reading to view an image of the Ford Ranger Max in its concept form.
Canada offers $ 3.3 billion to Big Three!
The Canadian Government has released a statement that it is offering up to $ 4 billion Canadian notes ($ 3.3 billion US) in terms of loans to the Canadian arms of the Big Three. Prime Minister Stephan Harper further mentioned that the government also intends to benefit automotive suppliers as well as consumers at large to get credit to buy cars.
The government has allocated $ 3 billion Canadian to General Motors of Canada Ltd and $ 1 billion Canadian to Chrysler Canada Inc. Ford Motor Company’s division has yet to ask for immediate assistance from the government. A collapse of the Big Three would put nearly 600,000 Canadians out of work within five years, and this is definitely something which the friendly neighbor wants to avoid.
$ 17.4 billion offered to Auto Manufacturers!
Huge relief for the U.S auto manufacturers, as well as other businesses which depend on the survival of the auto makers as the U.S Government has agreed to offer $ 17.4 billion in terms of loans to General Motors, Chrysler LLC and Ford. Both GM and Chrysler are allowed to access the funds almost immediately.
A total of $ 13.4 billion will be made available this month as well as in January, but officials also mentioned that the loans would be called back if the automakers cannot turn things around by March 31. The amount will be taken from the $ 700 billion TARP fund which is meant to rescue struggling financial institutions. Continue reading for official press releases by GM, Ford & Chrysler.
Big Three Bailout – Quick Update!
According to Reuters, U.S President George Bush is about to make an announcement about a possible rescue plan for the country’s top auto makers; General Motors, Chrysler and Ford. People at both GM and Chrysler are keeping their fingers crossed for a possible bailout which may rule both companies out of bankruptcy. Ford earlier mentioned that they will utilize the bailout funds only if things become worse next year.
UPDATE: U.S Government approves $ 17.4 billion (from previous $ 700 billion financial institution bailout) to auto manufacturers.
New Ford Focus RS: 300HP & 440Nm of torque!
The second generation Ford Focus RS will be made available to the market in early 2009 with heavy revisions and here’s the scoop on Ford’s 2-door hot hatch in its most powerful form!
Based on the Focus ST, the new RS looks much more aggressive with its lowered, ‘meaner’ appearance which based on Ford’s ‘kinetic design’ cues. The front bumper incorporates a deep front air-dam with a large, mesh lower grille in an extended trapezoid.
Bailout for Big Three may be announced on Wednesday!
According to published reports from Reuters, the Bush Administration will most probably announce a bailout for the top there auto manufacturers which include General Motors, Chrysler and Ford on Wednesday. The bailout may amount to $ 14 billion and is expected to be taken out of the $ 700 billion bailout which was originally meant to financial institutions.
The Bush Administration further commented that it is imperative to avoid bankruptcy. The appointment of a “Car Czar” will also take place if the bailout goes 100%. Following this news, GM shares closed 3.6 percent higher at $4.08, while Ford closed up 4.6 percent at $3.18 on the New York Stock Exchange yesterday.
Both GM and Chrysler are expected to inject the amounts given right away and Ford announced earlier that it will only use the given amount if the economic condition worsens. We will bring you the latest updates.
Canada may help Big Three?
Canada may step in and help out U.S’ struggling auto makers as well, on top of the possible bailout by the Bush Administration. The friendly neighbor accounts for about 20% share of the auto industry and may fork out an additional $2.8 billion, apart from a potential $ 14 billion which may be taken from the TARP’s $ 700 billion fund (Troubled Asset Relief Fund).
Bailout for Big Three Update!
After the failure of the bailout bill to go through the U.S Senate yesterday and the repercussions that has either happened or that are happening now as you read this, other options to save the auto makers are being looked at.
Apparently the White House is currently studying the option to utilize a small amount (shouldn’t be more than $ 15 billion) from the Troubled Asset Relief Fund’s $ 700 billion bailout which was intended for financial institutions. However, the Bush Administration has yet to make an official statement.
No bailout for Big Three!
The bailout bill for America’s top automakers has failed to pass through the Senate, and this should leave General Motors Corp., Ford Motor Co., and Chrysler LLC with insufficient funds to continue their attempt to reshuffle their economic presence or at least to stay afloat in such difficult times.
The “Domino” effect is expected to hit the stock exchange markets, starting off with the New York Stock Exchange which is about to begin in a couple of hours. In fact, according to Reuters, over in Asia, Japan’s Nikkei share average fell 6.1% earlier today as Toyota’s shares dived sharply. I also expect that a number of others economies worldwide will follow suit.
A blow like that will worsen the current recession situation around the world and may lead to the demise of at least one of the struggling U.S auto giants. Rumors suggest that the UAW (Union Auto Workers) was not willing to agree on equality in salaries and other benefits, which lead to the red light on the bill. Is there a light of hope at the end of tunnel? Lets wait and see.
A “Car Czar” for the Detroit Three
News recently surfaced regarding the possible appointment of a “Car Czar” by the Congress’ Democratic leaders, to oversee the spending of the $15 billion bailout which was granted to General Motors Corp., Ford Motor Company and Chrysler LLC. The job description of the “Car Czar” (as well as the board of officials which will be headed by the czar) will be further stretched to supervise long term efforts to be made by the Big Three to turn the auto manufacturers into viable businesses.
Below is the detailed job description, or should I say powers, of the “Car Czar” for the time being, since further responsibilities / powers may be added along the way:
- Approving/rejecting any transaction valued at more than $25 million made by an auto maker.
- The power to disburse bridge loans to GM, Ford, and Chrysler to keep them from collapsing.
- To establish criteria to assess the progress of each automaker and then evaluate their progress after 45 days and facilitate accords with all parties such as unions, shareholders, dealers, suppliers and other creditors which are affected by the restructuring plan.
- The power to devise plans for the companies, if they fail to submit restructuring plans by March 31 to the Congress.
The appointment of the “Car Czar” will be instrumental in enabling the U.S Government to restore faith in the public regarding the bailout by making sure that there is someone else looking after the Big Three.
Of course, you may wonder what’s with the choice of “czar”, is it simply because czar rhymes with car? Already some people have starting making fun of its Russian connotations…. watch the video below for a hilarious take on the whole car czar thing.
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