Ford Focus 1.0-Litre 125ps Ecoboost Wins Award During First Month On Sale

Ford Ecoboost race car. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Ford’s latest addition to its best-selling Focus range has won its first award within days of going on sale.

The Ford Focus with a 1.0-litre 125PS EcoBoost turbocharged, direct injection petrol engine has been named Best Company Car by BusinessCar.

The magazine and website described the 1.0-litre Focus as “a brilliant all-rounder”, adding: “Ford has pulled another winner out of the bag. It has listened to its critics and the latest Focus is more comfortable, upmarket and relaxing than ever.

“But Ford has done more than that – it’s now shaking up the company car sector. The 125PS 1.0-litre petrol model has all that the business driver needs – it’s punchy with lots of low-down overtaking urge, smooth and relaxing on the motorway. Plus there’s lower company car tax than the diesel.”

The new 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine combines turbocharging, direct injection and twin variable cam timing to deliver high levels of performance and refinement with all the fuel economy advantages of downsizing. It produces 125PS and 170Nm peak torque (200Nm with overboost) between 1,400 and 4,500rpm.

These output figures are achieved in combination with fuel economy improvements of 20 per cent over the outgoing 1.6-litre 125PS unit. In the five-door Focus with 125PS, combined fuel economy figure is 56.5mpg with CO2 emissions of 114g/km. The 100PS version delivers a combined fuel economy figure of 58.9mpg and outright best-in-class petrol CO2 emissions of 109g/km.

Kevin Griffin, Ford Britain fleet director, said: “This award is recognition of the many talents of the 1.0-litre Focus EcoBoost – a highly efficient, technically advanced powertrain which is fun to drive while delivering fuel economy and tax savings.”

Ford’s Gas-Free Focus Electric First with 100 MPGe, Faster Charging That Can Double Daily Range

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The all-new, gasoline-free Ford Focus Electric is the company’s first-ever all-electric passenger car – a zero-CO₂-emissions version of Ford’s popular small car expected to be the first of its kind to achieve the equivalent of a 100 miles per gallon fuel efficiency rating with seating for five.

 

Focus Electric is the flagship of Ford’s transformed lineup, one-third of which will feature a model with 40 mpg or more in 2012, building on the company’s commitment to give fuel-efficiency-minded customers the Power of Choice.

 

Focus Electric also is the first all-electric vehicle to feature faster charging technology, allowing it to fully recharge in three to four hours – half the time of Nissan Leaf. This technology can help double the car’s range during a busy day of driving and recharging multiple times. 

 

“Focus Electric’s innovative faster charging technology can help customers save money and get much more out of the car in a busy day of running around town and recharging between stops,” said Sherif Marakby, director of Ford’s Electrification Programs and Engineering. “We also are pleased the Focus Electric will break the 100 MPGe mark – a great symbol of how Ford has transformed its fleet with many vehicles delivering leading fuel economy and efficiency.”

 

With 20 years of Ford research and innovation behind electrified vehicle software and hardware technology, the company offers proven engineering and design with Focus Electric. Ford holds approximately 500 patents, with several hundred patent-pending applications on technologies used in the new Focus Electric and its other electrified vehicles.

 

Ford began taking orders for the 2012 Focus Electric in November through Certified Electric Vehicle Dealers in California and New York/New Jersey markets. In 2012, availability of the Focus Electric will expand to another 15 launch markets as production ramps up.

 

Focus Electric reflects Ford’s commitment to deliver fuel-efficient vehicles without sacrificing performance, capability or driving fun. Though range and miles per gallon equivalent figures are yet to be finalized, Focus Electric is expected to be competitive with other comparable all-electric vehicles.

 

“Focus Electric was designed to deliver the same dynamics and quality of a conventional Ford Focus,” said Eric Kuehn, Focus Electric chief nameplate engineer. “It shares many of the same premium components and features as its gasoline-powered counterpart while delivering distinct efficiencies and a uniquely exciting driving experience.”

 

A battery of quality
Focus Electric will be powered by an advanced lithium-ion (li-ion) battery system with an advanced active liquid cooling and heating system to precondition and regulate the temperature in its larger, more complex battery system.

 

The active liquid system heats or chills a coolant before pumping it through the battery cooling system. This loop regulates temperature throughout the system against external conditions. On hot days, chilled liquid absorbs heat from the batteries, dispersing it through a radiator before pumping it through the chiller again. On cold days, heated liquid warms the batteries, gradually bringing the system’s temperature to a level that allows it to efficiently accept charge energy and provide enough discharge power for expected vehicle performance.

 

The durability and longevity of batteries – which Ford has been developing and testing since the 1980s – is essential as the company expands its electrification plan. To date, among the nearly 43 million battery cells Ford has tested or seen put to work in customer vehicles, only five issues have been documented.

 

Plug and play… and save

Even with relatively stable gas prices, fuel economy is the top purchase consideration for new vehicles. Nearly 45 percent of customers say fuel economy is their top consideration based on a Ford survey of Americans in 36 cities this fall. Styling was the next consideration, with only 16 percent of study participants saying it was their top purchase driver.

 

The fuel efficiency of Focus Electric sets it apart from other vehicles. For example, the cost to travel 80 miles is $2.10 – based on the amount of energy it takes (measured in kilowatt-hours) and the national average cost of a kilowatt-hour. Driving 80 miles in a competitive gasoline-powered vehicle that gets 30 mpg would cost $8.80, based on a per gallon cost of $3.30.

 

A unique “set it and forget it” value charging feature, powered by Microsoft, is designed to help owners in the U.S. charge their cars when the utility rates are lower. The tool aims to help customers avoid unnecessary expense by providing an optimized charging solution. In the future, these smart charging habits can help utility companies understand and better manage the demands placed upon the electric grid because of electrified vehicles.

 

Focus Electric is the first all-electric vehicle to offer faster charging technology, allowing a full recharge in three to four hours with the 240-volt charge station – half the time of the Nissan Leaf.

 

Ford and SunPower Corp. have teamed up to offer customers a rooftop solar system that can provide enough clean, renewable energy to offset the electricity used to charge the car.

 

The car’s charge port – conveniently located on the left front fender – activates a light ring that illuminates the port twice when plugged in. The light ring then illuminates in quadrants as the car charges. Each quadrant represents 25 percent of the maximum battery charge.

 

Flashing quadrants represent charge in progress and solid-lit quadrants show stages of charge completion. When the entire ring is solidly lit, the car is fully charged.

 

Technology for more efficient driving, better MPGe

Focus Electric’s SYNC^® with MyFord Touch^® driver connect technology was specifically developed for electric vehicle owners and displays key information such as battery state of charge. The system’s MyView feature allows drivers to access even more vehicle data including the electrical demands of such accessories as air conditioning, which can impact driving range.

 

Drivers also can input destinations, including their next charge point, into the car’s MyFord Touch map-based navigation system, and the car will coach drivers on how to achieve the desired range – or advise if travel plans need to be adjusted. The on-board navigation system provides an EcoRoute option based on characteristics of efficient electric vehicle driving.

 

The Focus Electric’s next-generation SmartGauge^® with EcoGuide fuel economy coaching system features a cluster display that uses blue butterflies to represent the surplus range beyond the driver’s charge point destination. The more butterflies there are, the more surplus you have to get to your final destination.

 

At the end of each trip, a display screen provides distance driven, miles gained through regenerative braking, energy consumed and a comparative gasoline savings achieved by driving electric.

 

Remote control
Off-board, Focus Electric owners will be able to maintain constant contact with the car anywhere they have a mobile phone signal using the Ford-developed MyFord^® Mobile app. MyFord Mobile enables access via a smartphone or Web-based interface to:

 

• Receive instant vehicle status information
• Perform key functions remotely
• Monitor the car’s state of charge and current range
• Get alerts when it requires charging or has finished charging
• Remotely program charge settings and download vehicle data for analysis
• Locate charge stations and plan routes to find them

The feature also allows the owner to program the car to use electricity from the grid to heat or cool the cabin while plugged in – called preconditioning. For example, during hot summer months, owners can preprogram the car the evening before to be fully charged – and fully cooled to a particular temperature – by a certain time the following morning.

 

Working with MapQuest^®, MyFord Mobile can communicate charge station information and other points of interest to Focus Electric using SYNC Services. Turn-by-turn guidance is provided by the in-car map-based Navigation System. Drivers can also get up-to-date charge station information directly to their car simply by connecting to SYNC Services.

 

Engaging to drive, too
Not only is Focus Electric designed to provide outstanding energy efficiency and reliable operation, it also delivers real driving enjoyment. The all-electric powertrain and single-speed transmission provide immediate responsiveness and smooth acceleration when the driver pushes down the accelerator; it’s expected to achieve a top speed of 84 mph (136 kph).

 

Much of the Focus Electric’s steering, handling and braking feel is shared with the agile, sporty, fuel-powered five-door hatchback Focus model upon which it’s based. At the same time, the vehicle’s absence of gasoline or diesel engine and its outstanding aerodynamics lead to a remarkably quiet, comfortable in-car experience.

 

Focus Electric offers a host of standard safety and security features including six airbags, electronic traction control and MyKey^® for North America. The Focus Electric is the industry’s first car to feature 100 percent sustainable clean technologies in interior materials, including seat fabrics with REPREVE^®-branded fiber made from recycled plastic bottles inthe seat fabric

 

Other standard features on Ford Focus Electric for North American customers include 15-spoke 17-inch aluminum wheels, a 60/40 split rear bench seat, push-button start, AM/FM/CD/MP3 Sony^® Audio with nine speakers, SiriusXM Satellite Radio and HD Radio^™. Also included is a free, three-year subscription to SYNC Services, which provides access to information about traffic, news, sports, weather, horoscopes, stock quotes and movie listings, along with business searches and turn-by-turn directions.

 

All Focus gasoline and electric variants to be sold in North America will be built at Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Mich., with production powered in part by one of the largest solar energy generator systems in the state.

FORD INTENSIFIES FOCUS ON ELECTRIFICATION STRATEGY

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Ford Motor Company is intensifying its focus on global electrification with the creation of a new position to lead the planning and strategy for Ford's future electric vehicle portfolio.

Nancy Gioia, formerly Ford's director of Sustainable Mobility Technology and Hybrid Vehicle Programs, North America, has been named director of Ford Global Electrification.

"We recognize that pursuing electrification as one of our technology paths presents unique challenges for commercialization of the vehicles," said Sue Cischke, Ford's group vice president of Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering. "It requires us to collaborate with new partners, define new business models, connect to a new infrastructure for the vehicles and meet new customer expectations around the globe."

In her new position, Gioia will direct strategy and planning for Ford's global electric vehicle portfolio, touching all aspects of electrified transportation, including product planning, supplier partnerships and collaboration with the energy industry and government.

"Ford is strongly positioned to accelerate its electric vehicle strategy thanks in part to the significant research we've already completed," said Barb Samardzich, Ford vice president, Powertrain Engineering. "Nancy's unique background and experience in leading the hybrid technology and electric vehicle product teams position her well to coordinate our electric efforts across product development, sustainability and government affairs as we move to the next frontier of this new form of transportation."

Ford has announced plans to develop three distinct types of electrified vehicles – hybrid electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and pure battery electric vehicles. They include:

• Battery electric Transit Connect commercial van in 2010
• Battery electric Focus passenger car in 2011
• Next-generation hybrid vehicle in 2012
• Plug-in hybrid in 2012

Ford's electrification strategy is consistent with its commitment to deliver affordable fuel efficient technology to millions of customers. The company is poised to take advantage of rapid advancements in electrified vehicle technology – particularly lithium-ion batteries – while leveraging the scale of global vehicle platforms to ultimately reduce the cost of new electric vehicles.

Global fleet testing under way
The globalization of Ford's electrification strategy is well under way, with test fleets on both sides of the Atlantic. At the recent Frankfurt Motor Show, Ford of Europe revealed the first of a fleet of battery electric vehicle prototypes based on the Ford Focus, and specially developed to participate in the U.K. government's "Ultra-Low Carbon Vehicles" demonstration initiative next year. The research program aims to test the technology's suitability for potential future application in Ford's European passenger car range.

A consortium of Ford, Scottish and Southern Energy and Strathclyde University will use the fleet of 15 prototype Ford Focus BEVs and a charging infrastructure in and around the London Borough of Hillingdon starting in early 2010.

The Focus BEV prototype is based on the current European Ford Focus and will use a new all-electric powertrain, developed with Ford supplier partner Magna. This technology is based on that being developed for Ford's new-generation C-sized global vehicle architecture that will be launched in North America in 2011.

"This fleet of Focus BEV prototypes is an important step toward developing a realistic solution and viable market for electric vehicles in the U.K., Europe and North America," Gioia said. "Our electrification strategy absolutely depends on strong alliances with key partners whose expertise and resources complement our extensive experience and global production capabilities."

In North America, Ford and its energy industry partners continue to collaborate on the connectivity issue between electric vehicles and the electric grid. Over the past two years, Ford and its utility partners have logged more than 75,000 miles on a test fleet of plug-in Escape Hybrids. Plug-in hybrid research focuses on four primary areas: battery technology, vehicle systems, customer usage and grid infrastructure.

In addition, Ford has developed an intelligent vehicle-to-grid communications and control system for its plug-in hybrid electric vehicles that "talks" directly with the nation's electric grid.

Commercial and retail electric products planned
Ford is set to deliver its first electrified vehicle in 2010 when it will launch a pure battery electric Transit Connect small commercial van. The vehicle will be targeted to fleets and businesses with short, defined transportation routes and the ability to return to a central charging location at day's end.

In 2011, Ford will launch the battery electric Ford Focus passenger vehicle. Built off the new global C platform, the BEV Focus will be produced at the Michigan Assembly Plant for both retail and commercial customers.

"Broad commercialization of electric transportation will require unprecedented collaboration among all stakeholders and new ways of doing business," Gioia said. "Ford is committed to help lead the way to find creative solutions to ensure that electrified vehicles can deliver benefits to our customers, the environment and our business around the globe in a sustainable way."

FORD EUROPEAN SALES GAINS CONTINUE WITH BEST JULY AND YEAR-TO-DATE MARKET SHARE IN 10 YEARS

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Ford, the No. 2 best-selling new vehicle brand in Europe, increased its market share for the seventh consecutive time last month, resulting in the company’s best July and year-to-date market share performance since 1999.

Ford of Europe had 9 percent market share in its main 19 European markets, up 0.6 percentage points from July 2008. Ford’s share for the first seven months of 2009 was 9.1 percent, an increase of 0.5 percentage points from the same period a year ago.

In total, Ford sold 125,200 new vehicles in its main 19 European markets in July, up 5 percent, making it the second month in a row this year that Ford has posted a sales increase from the prior year period. Ford’s 5 percent volume increase contrasts to a 1.5 percent industry decline in the same month.

“As we are moving into the second half of the year, we are encouraged to see Ford at a 10-year high market share for July and, as a result of this, firmly established as Europe's second best-selling new vehicle brand in Europe,” said Ingvar Sviggum, Ford of Europe’s vice president, Marketing, Sales and Service.

The sales success was driven by strong customer demand for the latest Ford products across the line-up, including the Fiesta, new Ka, and best-selling Focus. The company’s product portfolio allowed it to improve market share in 13 of its main 19 European markets. The improving European results follows news of positive sales performance in other key Ford markets around the world in July, including China, the U.S. and Canada.

In the first seven months of 2009, Ford of Europe registered 871,400 vehicles in its 19 main markets, down 7.3 percent over the same period in 2008. This compares with a total industry decline of 12.2 percent in that period.

“We're also pleased to have increased sales volume for the second consecutive month, while the industry is still declining,” said Sviggum. “The industry figures show, however, that despite the positive impact of various national vehicle scrappage schemes, the overall trend is still negative and the underlying market weak.”

Sviggum added: “We strongly believe that these incentive schemes should continue for as long as practically possible, and then be phased out in an orderly manner to avoid any dramatic reduction in market demand that could damage the still fragile improvement we have seen in recent months.”

July Market and Model Sales Highlights:
Markets:

• Ford was market leader in the U.K., Ireland and Hungary; in Hungary, share was at 17.8, up by 7.8 ppts. on the same period 2008, the highest share since 1994.
• Ford’s sales volume in Germany increased by 45 percent (while industry grew 24 percent) in July, and the company had its highest monthly share there since June 2004.
• Similarly, Ford Austria’s July sales were up by 45 percent, to a record high for the month of July since 1994.
• Ford continues to be the leading imported brand in Italy, with volume up by 35 percent, despite the Italian industry being up by only 3 percent in July.
• Sixty-one percent of Ford passenger cars sold went to retail customers in the Euro 19 markets, up from 47 percent in July 2008.
• Ford was among the three best-selling brands in 13 of 19 European markets.

Models:

• Ford of Europe’s three top-selling vehicles (19 main markets) were the Fiesta (39,900), the Focus (28,700), and new Ka (10,500).
• In Germany, the Fiesta became segment leader in July, the first time since the vehicle’s market entry there in October 2008.
• In the U.K., where Fiesta sales were up by over 26 percent vs. the same month 2008, Fiesta remained the industry’s best-selling vehicle.
• In June, Fiesta was both Europe's second best-selling car and the leader in the small car segment.
• In July, 39,900 Fiestas were delivered to customers in Europe -- 14,500 units more than the previous Fiesta model sold in July 2008.
• New Ford Ka continues to be a success in the market despite the economic downturn. Ford sold 10,500 units in July (up 7,500 on July last year).
• Ford Focus remained No. 2 best-selling vehicle across the industry in the U.K., behind the Fiesta.
• The Ford C-MAX was the best-selling foreign vehicle in its segment in France.
• Transit had its best July performance since 2003 (Euro 19 markets).

July Year-To-Date Market and Model Highlights
Markets:

• Market leader in the U.K., Ireland and Hungary.
• Italy (share up by 2.0 ppts. to 9.7 percent) and the UK (up by 1.5 ppts. to 17.9 percent share) had the highest share gains in the five largest markets in the first seven months of 2009.
• Year-to-date sales volume increased by 37 percent in Germany (vs. an increase of 21.3 percent for the industry).
• Ford was among the three best-selling brands in 12 of its Euro19 markets.

Models:

• The three best-selling vehicles in the first seven months of 2009 were the newFiesta (277,700), Focus (183,600) and Transit (70,300).
• In the first seven months of 2009, Fiesta sales were up 75,000 over the sameperiod in 2008. Approximately 340,000 Fiestas have been sold since the car was launched last autumn. Seventy-four percent of all Fiestas sold year-to-date were to retail customers (Euro19 markets).
• 62,300 Ford Ka vehicles were delivered to Ford customers this year. Eighty percent of all Ka sales (Euro 19 markets) year-to-date were to retail customers.
• The Ford C-MAX was leading its segment in Italy, as was the Focus Wagon.
• Ford S-MAX, Focus and Mondeo were among the top three sellers in their segments in Spain for the first seven months of 2009.
• Kuga saw highest sales growth in the compact SUV segment year-to-date in Spain.
• Focus was best-selling industry vehicle in the first seven months in Hungary in 2009.

400,000th China-Made Ford Focus Rolls off the Line

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Changan Ford Mazda Automobile Co., Ltd. (CFMA), Ford Motor's joint venture in China, celebrated the 400,000th Ford Focus rolling off the line at its manufacturing facility in the southwestern city of Chongqing.

"We're proud to celebrate the production of the 400,000th Ford Focus, which was launched here in China four years ago," said Jeffrey Shen, President of CFMA. "With its outstanding styling and drivability, world-class engineering and safety, Ford Focus is firmly established as a star product in China's highly competitive mid-sized car market. The success of this exciting car reflects Ford's commitment to the Chinese market – to always provide our Chinese customers with products they want and value. "

Ford launched the four-door Ford Focus in China in September 2005, and the five-door model a year later. The model range quickly became one of China's best-sellers. In July, Ford Focus sales exceeded 10,000 units for the fifth consecutive month, helping support the steady growth of Ford brand vehicles produced and sold by CFMA. Through the first seven months of this year, Ford brand vehicle sales were 123,474 units, representing a 21.5% increase over the same period last year.

The 2009 Ford Focus was launched at the end of last year to further entrench its leading position in the segment, with the application of Ford's kinetic design cues, as well as a further refined interior. Both body styles have won acceptance for their stylish looks, great driving dynamics and class-leading quality and safety.

The Ford Focus is one of the world's most awarded cars, having won both the European Car of the Year and North American Car of the Year. In China, the Ford Focus has received more than 90 awards from national motoring media in recognition of its class-leading driving dynamics, precise steering and braking control, distinct design and build quality as well as achieving a C-NCAP five-star score for occupant crash protection.

FORD CONFIRMS SAARLOUIS AS THE SINGLE SOURCE FOR THE ALL-NEW FORD FOCUS; NEXT-GENERATION FORD C-MAX TO BE SINGLE SOURCED FROM VALENCIA

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Ford of Europe today confirmed it has decided to single source European production of its all-new Ford Focus, which will be launched in 2010, from its Saarlouis Plant in Germany. The next-generation Ford C-MAX, which goes into production in 2010, will be single sourced from Ford's plant in Valencia, Spain for all European markets and potentially for markets outside Europe.

"We announced last March that Saarlouis would be the lead plant for the next-generation Ford Focus – just as it is for the current Ford Focus – but also we said we were looking at a possible opportunity for a second production plant for a derivative of the vehicle," said John Fleming, Ford of Europe Chairman and CEO.

"Since then, we have continued to evaluate this possibility. We have however concluded that – in line with our global manufacturing strategy with its emphasis on maximizing investment efficiency and utilization of our manufacturing capacity and flexibility – we will single source the next-generation Ford Focus from Saarlouis and single source the all-new Ford C-MAX from Valencia. We can also confirm that Valencia will supply the needs of the European market and potentially markets outside Europe as well."

In March of this year, Ford announced a range of further actions intended to bring its capacity in line with the industry-wide, declining demand and sales. The company adjusted its sourcing plans to meet future business needs, given that demand is unlikely to improve significantly in the European market for some considerable time.

"Our objective is to return to sustainable profitability as soon as we can," said Mr. Fleming. "We've already shown that we will make the necessary decisions and do whatever is required to ensure that Ford of Europe emerges from the downturn as a leaner and stronger company, ready to take on the opportunities presented once the economic situation finally improves."

CUSTOMER DEMAND DRIVES UP FORD'S EUROPEAN SALES SHARE IN MAY FOR FIFTH SUCCESSIVE MONTH

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CUSTOMER DEMAND DRIVES UP FORD's european SALES SHARE IN MAY for fifth successive month

• Customer demand for new products such as the Ford Fiesta and Ford Ka drove up Ford's May sales share for the fifth successive month
• Ford's share was up 0.2 per cent in May to 8.9 per cent, and up 0.5 per cent to 9.2 per cent year-to-date
• Fiesta was Ford's best-selling car, with 39,200 sold in May; over 252,000 Fiestas have been sold since market launch last autumn
• Ford was Europe's No.2 best-selling automotive brand in May and year-to-date
• National scrappage schemes in Europe helping to bolster an underlying weak market
• Market share up in 11 of Ford's main 19 European` markets in May, and up in 18 of the main 19 European markets year-to-date
• In May, Ford was market leader in Britain, Spain and Ireland; No.1 import brand in Italy; No.2 best-selling import brand in France; and No.3 best-selling brand in Germany

COLOGNE, June 15, 2009 – Driven by enthusiastic customer demand for its strongest-ever range of vehicles, Ford – Europe's No.2 best-selling vehicle brand – saw its sales market share increase for the fifth successive month in May across its main 19 markets.

Continued economic uncertainty and lower overall volume, combined with political and industry upheaval in some of the company's major markets has not deterred car buyers from choosing Ford's newest models, the Fiesta and Ka, thereby helping to increase the company's market share to 8.9 per cent in May, up 0.2 percentage points.

Ford's year-to-date share was 9.2 per cent, up from 8.7 per cent in the same period in 2008.

The company increased its share in 11 out of its 19 main markets in May, and in 18 out of its 19 main markets year-to-date. Total vehicle sales in May were 118,300, 10.6 per cent below May 2008, but a significantly lesser decline than that expected to have been experienced by the overall new vehicle market in Europe.

"Despite the rapidly evolving industry, economic and political environment, we are very pleased to be Europe's No.2 best-selling vehicle brand for both May and the year so far," said Ingvar Sviggum, vice-president marketing, sales and service, Ford of Europe.

"We have our strongest-ever vehicle range, and we thank our customers for continuing to show such great confidence in the Ford brand."

"It's clear, however, from the continuing volume decline that the market is still weak, and it is therefore very important that the scrappage schemes introduced by some countries are continued to support market demand and reduce overall fleet CO2 emissions."

"We are already seeing promising signs that the scrappage bonuses introduced in Spain and the UK in mid-May are beginning to gain traction, and we hope they will further stimulate demand in those markets in the coming months. We'd like to see other countries following suit and, where necessary, existing schemes expanded to include commercial vehicles in addition to cars," said Mr. Sviggum.

Ford's all-new small cars – the Fiesta and Ka – have contributed strongly to Ford of Europe's market performance year-to-date and in May. Highlights include:

Ford Fiesta

• Fiesta remains Ford of Europe's best-selling vehicle.
• More than 191,000 new Fiestas have been delivered to customers since the beginning of January. In May, 39,200 new Fiestas were sold.
• Since the car was first launched last autumn, more than 252,000 units have been sold in Europe.

Ford Ka

• Only a few weeks after market introduction, the Ford Ka sold 9,400 units in May and 41,400 units year-to-date.
• This was Ka's best-selling year-to-date performance since 2003.
• Ka was segment leader in the UK in May with a share of 14.8 per cent.

May 2009 market performance

Market share was up in 11 of Ford's main 19 European markets in May. Across all of its 51 European markets, Ford sold 138,500 vehicles in May 2009, down 16.3 per cent (or 27,000) when compared to the same month last year.

Ford of Europe's top-selling models in May (19 main markets) were the new Fiesta (39,200), the Focus (25,300), and the new Ka (9,400).

Britaincontinued to be Ford's leading European market, and its second-largest global market, in May, selling 26,200 new vehicles to customers. The newly-introduced scrappage scheme added 3,800 Ford registrations to the monthly figures. While sales were down 8,200 units from the same month in 2008, market share rose to 17.3 per cent; up 1.0 percent compared to May last year.

The Fiesta was Britain's best-selling vehicle for the month and year-to-date. Combined Fiesta and Ka sales were just 50 units below their sales figure in May 2008. The Ford Focus was Britain's No.2 best-selling car In May and year-to-date.

Germanyhad the largest industry passenger car volume since March 2000. With a increase of 49.3 per cent versus May 2008, Ford performed even better than the industry. Ford sold 29,100 cars in May, the company's highest sales since May 2001. This marked a 26.9 per cent increase (or an extra 6,200 units) versus the same month in 2008, the market again being positively driven by the government's continuing scrappage scheme.

Ford's market share in May increased to 7.9 per cent compared to 7.5 per cent last year, and Ford was the No.3 best-selling brand in the country.

A similar strong sales performance was delivered by Ford of Italy. May sales rose 23.4 per cent, or 3,800 units, lifting Italy's share by 2.6 per cent to 9.8 per cent versus May 2008. Ford remained Italy's leading import brand, while Fiesta continued to be the best-selling imported car and No.3 best-selling car in Italy.

In France, C-MAX and S-MAX were the best-selling imported vehicles in their segments. Ford's total vehicle share for May was slightly down by 0.1 per cent to 5.3 per cent, resulting in sales of 11,400, or a reduction of 1,000 units on the same month 2008.

Ford was market-leader in Spainin May, with a 10 per cent market share. This was down by 0.5 per cent from May 2008, primarily due to Ford's deliberate action to reduce rental volumes.

Year-to-date performance

In the first five months of 2009, Ford of Europe sold 590,700 vehicles in its main 19 markets: a reduction of 92,500 vehicles, or 13.5 per cent over the same period in 2008. Ford's market share, however, rose by 0.5 per cent to 9.2 per cent, and 18 out of 19 markets had share gains. Only Spain was down year-to-date, primarily a result of its plan to cut rental volumes.

Year-to-date May, Ford of Europe sold 680,500 vehicles in its 51 markets, a reduction of 148,100 or 17.9 percent versus the first five months of 2008.

Over the first five months of 2009, Ford of Britain sold 152,400 vehicles, down 45,900 or 23.2 per cent compared to last year. During the period, the UK's industry declined by 30.2 per cent. Ford's market share in Britain has continued to rise in the first five months of 2009 to 18.1 per cent, up by 1.7 per cent from the first five months of 2008.

Ford of Germany increased its year-to-date sales by 28.6 per cent. It sold 121,600 new vehicles, an increase of 27,100 over the first five months of 2008. Market share for the first five months of the year rose to 7.5 per cent, up 1.0 per cent compared to 2008.

In Italy, the companydelivered 99,400 new vehicles to customers. This was up 4,500 units from first five months of 2008 and resulted in a market share increase of 2.1 per cent to 9.9 per cent.

In the first five months of 2009, Ford was the best-selling foreign brand in France. Year-to-date market share for Ford Francealsoincreased by 0.3 per cent to 5.6 per cent, with sales of 58,900 – a reduction of 6,300 units on 2008.

The market in Spainhas continued to be one of the most depressed in Europe. The industry fell by 45 per cent in the past five months, with Ford sales totaling 33,400; a reduction of 35,300 or 51.4 per cent on the same period the previous year. Ford's market share in Spain was down by 1.2 per cent to 8.7 per cent.

In Russia, 42,800 sales (although down by 35,400 or 45.2 per cent versus the same period last year, the industry declined by 49 per cent) enabled Ford's market share for the first five months of 2009 to rise by 0.6 per cent to 6.7 per cent.

May 2009 sales volume

	May 09	May YTD 09
Euro 19 1 Changes vs. 08	118,300 down 14,000 /(10.6) % vs. 05/08	590,700 down 92,500 /(13.5) % vs. 05/YTD 08
Euro 21 (Euro 19 + Russia and Turkey) Changes vs. 08	134,200 down 22,900 /(14.6) % vs. 05/08	660,700 down 132,200 /(16.7) % vs. 05/YTD 08
EDM 30 2 Changes vs. 08	4,300 down 4,200 /(49.4) % vs. 05/08	19,900 down 15,900 /(44.4) % vs. 05/YTD 08
Total EURO 51(EURO 21 + EDM 30) Changes vs. 08	138,500 down 27,000 /(16.3) % vs. 05/08	680,500 down 148,100 / (17.9) % vs. 05/YTD 08

¹The Euro 19 markets are: Austria, Belgium, Britain, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. Ford reports sales for Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania through our Finnish National Sales Company, so sales data for the Baltic states is also included within Euro 19.

² European Direct Markets are: Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Egypt, Georgia, Gibraltar, Kazakhstan, Kyrgysztan, Libya, Macedonia, Malta, Moldova, Montenegro, Morocco, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Tunisia, Ukraine, Uzbekistan.

May 2009 market share ³

	May 09	May YTD 09
Euro 19 3 changes vs. 08	8.9 % up 0.2 ppts. vs. May 08	9.2 % up 0.5 ppts. vs. May YTD 08
Euro 21 (incl. Russia and Turkey) changes vs. 08	8.9 % up 0.4 ppts. vs. May 08	9.1 % up 0.6 ppts. vs. May YTD 08

³ Not available for EDM, where we base our share on non-domestic sales volumes.

May sales by vehicle line (Euro 19) ⁴

Model	May 09	o(u) May 08	May YTD 09	o(u) May YTD 08
New Ka	9,400	9,400	41,400	41,400
New Fiesta	39,200	39,200	191,300	191,300
Fusion	4,900	(1,200)	24,100	(7,600)
Focus	25,300	(9,800)	123,100	(48,100)
Focus Coupé-Cabriolet	700	(600)	4,500	(1,300)
C-MAX	7,200	(3,200)	32,100	(21,200)
Kuga	5,300	3,200	23,500	20,800
Mondeo	8,800	(6,500)	46,600	(31,000)
S-MAX	3,100	(2,600)	17,200	(8,900)
Galaxy	2,300	(800)	11,000	(3,900)
Transit	7,200	(8,500)	45,200	(37,200)
Transit Connect	2,900	(2,400)	15,900	4,400
Ranger	1,300	(100)	6,100	(2,300)

⁴ Figures do not include vehicles such as the Fiesta van, Maverick, Explorer imports and Turkish-built Cargo heavy trucks.

FORD'S APRIL SALES LIFT SHARE FURTHER

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Ford's share of last month's car market increased by 3.9 percentage points, compared with April 2008, providing the blue oval brand with a market-leading 18.4 per cent of registrations according to industry figures.

In an April UK car market where overall industry demand decreased by 24 per cent, the popularity of the Ford model range limited the impact on the company to a 3.6 per cent drop in registrations, year on year.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders reported that 28,314 Ford cars and commercial vehicles were registered last month, compared with 32,176 in April 2008.

The total included 8,395 new Ford Fiestas – 37.2 per cent more than were sold in April 2008. More Ford Focus models were also registered compared with 12 months ago, making it April's top seller. The second-placed Ford Fiesta remains the UK's best selling car year to date.

In the UK's April car market, 24,579 buyers chose Fords, making a total of 107,000 Ford registrations in the first four months of the year. This is a 21,342-unit lead over Ford's nearest rival compared to a margin of just 12,507 cars at the same time last year.

The continuing popularity of the new Ford Fiesta, the Focus and Kuga contributed to Ford's growing share of the car retail market, now at 13.3 per cent and 2.8 percentage points up versus April 2008.

These popular cars, along with the company's stylish large car range, are attracting corporate business in increasing numbers. Ford beat the recession last month by returning figures for fleet sales at near 2008 levels. Fleet registrations were 16,457 units last month versus 16,800 in April 2008.

Nigel Sharp, Ford of Britain managing director, said: "Ford's rising share in April has been achieved in the most challenging conditions of weaker industry demand and an unfavourable exchange rate. It is an encouraging platform from which to launch our exciting marketing offers, aimed at helping customers to get maximum benefit from the Government's new vehicle scrappage scheme. Ford has taken the position expected of a market leader by announcing attractive supplementary offers to help motorists afford safer, greener and more efficient new vehicles."

2009 Shanghai Auto Show - Ford Focus

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Ford Focus has quickly become one of China's best-selling cars, and for model-year 2009, Ford introduces a Focus with dramatic exterior styling, refined interior design and impressive safety technology.

Safety and comfort features for new Focus (model-year 2009)

• Driver and front passenger airbags and front seat-mounted side airbags now standard occupant safety features across the new Focus model range
• Emergency Hazard Warning Light Activation System
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP) available on Focus Sport
• Enhanced interior with high-quality materials and new instruments
• New customer-focused, premium quality features include a 'Premium' centre console with additional storage space
• Compelling new technologies allow higher level of In-Car Entertainment (ICE) connectivity with conventional 3.5mm jack and USB port

The Ford Focus is one of the world's most awarded cars, winning both the European Car of the Year and North American Car of the Year. In China, the Ford Focus has received more than 90 awards from national motoring media in recognition of its class-leading driving dynamics, precise steering and braking control, distinct design and build quality as well as achieving a C-NCAP five-star score for occupant crash protection. (Ford Focus Limited is the first medium-size car in China to receive a five-star rating by C-NCAP.)

For model-year 2009, Ford has improved the Focus in many areas. New Focus presents a fresh exterior design with dramatic headlamps and large lower front grille obviously inspired by Ford of Europe's 'kinetic design' language. Along with the Focus's more dramatic and identifiable exterior features, the interior also reveals design improvements that are immediately noticeable and more refined.

These improvements and upgraded features reflect the attitude of the Focus buyer in China, who insists on premium quality features, a high degree of driving enjoyment and advanced safety technology.

From the driver's view, new instruments – with individual binnacles surrounding tachometer and speedometer – are more legible day and night. All gauges are illuminated in red for improved comfort and visibility at night.

However, not all improvements are visible, as is the case of Ford providing dual front airbags and front seat-mounted side airbags on all Focus models to improve occupant protection and reassuring peace of mind. ESP (electronic stability program) with Traction Control in addition to the system's ABS control has been added to the Focus Sport in keeping with the car's dynamic agility and driving performance. ESP assists the driver in extreme situations by detecting the initial onset of possible loss of vehicle stability. ESP rapidly and accurately manipulates the braking system to allow the driver to retain vehicle stability.

With the four brand pillars of kinetic design, leading engineering, enhanced safety and driving dynamics, the new Ford Focus is available in a series of four models series and two body styles.

Ford Focus Model Range:

• Focus Comfort – 5dr hatch 1.8-litre manual
• Focus Comfort – 4dr sedan 1.8-litre manual
• Focus Fashion – 5dr hatch 1.8-litre automatic
• Focus Fashion – 4dr sedan 1.8-litre automatic
• Focus Luxury – 4dr sedan 1.8-litre automatic
• Focus Luxury – 4dr sedan 2.0-litre automatic
• Focus Sport – 5dr hatch 2.0-litre manual
• Focus Sport – 5dr hatch 2.0-litre automatic

Expressive exterior and ergonomic interior design enhances the new Ford Focus's sporty character.

Ford of Europe's design team took a whole vehicle approach in applying 'kinetic design' form language to the new Focus. Immediately obvious is the Focus's new front design, in particular the dynamic new form of the bonnet and the enlarged, trapezoidal opening of the lower grille that works so effectively with those bold, dramatic headlamps.

In the top-of-the-range Luxury model, the lower trapezoid grille is framed by an elegant chrome surround, while new-look fog lamps and bezels complete the frontal transformation.

A strong shoulder line links the front to the rear – framed by Ford's characteristic bold wheel lips – which gives the Focus its new sleek profile. The bodyside is clean and uncluttered.

From the rear, Focus hatch has a newly sculpted tailgate and glass area and highly visible new tail lamps with clear lenses.

Leading Engineering
The dynamic new look of the Focus exterior is complemented by a new interior ambience which features significant detail changes and added features. Inside, the new Ford Focus interior is emphasised by improved craftsmanship, quality materials and enhancing comfort levels.

Comprehensive improvements were made to create a user-friendly space. A new “Premium” centre console has been designed with an emphasis on improved design and function. The centre console creates a “flow through” effect from the centre stack of the instrument panel and helps to create a “cockpit feel” for the driver and front passenger. It features a movable armrest, an integrated drinks holder, a card holder and a multi-purpose storage space.

The new Ford Focus delivers new higher levels of connectivity and in-car systems. It is particularly significant for users of new generation iPod players, as this connection allows full control of the unit's functions through the main audio system and recharge for iPod. Dual-zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control (EATC) has been added as a standard feature on Focus Luxury, allowing the driver and front passenger to set individual temperatures.

The new Focus 1.8 Luxury sedan (available with automatic only) also receives additional high-end comfort features including: power-adjust driver's seat with lumbar support, dual-zone EATC, six-stack in-dash CD with steering wheel controls, leather upholstery with leather door trim, rear seat centre console with storage and drinks holder, dimmer control for interior lighting, front map light, perimeter alarm system, additional interior and exterior chrome highlights, and Ghia badge.

Enhanced Safety
The new Ford Focus delivers class-leading safety and occupant protection with increased occupant safety features and side impact protection.

The comprehensive occupant safety package for new Focus includes dual front airbags and front seat-mounted side airbags (on all models), standard Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brake Distribution and Electronic Brake Assist.

Driving Dynamics
Focus achieves class-leading driving dynamics through use of an advanced 'Control Blade' multilink rear suspension and front MacPherson struts and the semi-isolated front subframe to achieve the optimum balance of ride, handling, steering precision and comfort.

The Focus engine range is proven and offers customers the advantages of power and fuel efficiency from a 1.8-litre and a 2.0-litre version of Ford's Duratec petrol engine – the 1.8-litre engine producing 91kW is available in Comfort and Fashion; and the 2.0-litre engine producing 104kW is offered in Sport and Luxury.

The new Ford Focus range offers two transmission choices: the relaxed comfort of an automatic (with a driver-select Sequential Sport Shift) or a more performance-minded five-speed manual gearbox.

The Focus body structure also plays a major role in the car’s driving quality and occupant safety. New Ford Focus has been engineered to the same high torsional stiffness as its predecessor ensuring excellent dynamic response.

Ford Focus has always been acclaimed for its excellent on-road driving behaviour. And new Focus is engineered to flatter the novice driver and reward the expert with assured and predictable controllability, precise steering and confident, benchmark handling.

FORD'S SPRING OFFERS

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Ford is tempting customers with an exciting range of spring special offers on popular models. Buyers can celebrate the arrival of the new season with a new car featuring reduced low-rate finance at 3.9 per cent across the range, generous customer savings and free added features. These offers are available now until June 30, 2009.

FIESTA

The stylish new Fiesta Zetec is now offered with free Bluetooth connectivity and voice control (worth £150) plus a customer saving of £500. The new 'On-The-Road' (OTR) price is just £11,795.

FOCUS

Customers ordering the acclaimed and sporty Focus Zetec can save a total of £2,400 with its special OTR price of £15,040. This includes a saving of £1,700, free Bluetooth and voice control worth £150, and free Sport Pack worth £550, which includes 17-inch alloy wheels and privacy glass.

The new Focus Zetec S model also benefits from the same offers, and starts at £16,040 OTR. A £1000 deposit allowance is added for all Focus customers.

KUGA

The popular Kuga crossover now comes with free Bluetooth and voice control worth £150, and the Appearance Pack which is worth £200 and includes aluminium finish roof rails and privacy glass. Kuga Prices now start from £21,790.

MONDEO

Ford Mondeo customers choosing the Zetec series will get a free Zetec Sport Pack worth £500, which includes 17-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler and sports suspension. The Mondeo Zetec has an OTR price of £18,840, while a £1000 deposit allowance is also added for all Mondeo customers.

S-MAX & GALAXY

S-MAX Zetec and Galaxy Ghia owners already enjoy a host of luxurious standard features, but will get maximum benefit from the brighter days thanks to the addition of a free panorama roof worth £700. S-MAX and Galaxy customers will also benefit from a £1,000 deposit allowance.

FORD STRENGTHENS GLOBAL MARKETING FUNCTION AS NEXT STEP IN IMPLEMENTING ‘ONE FORD’ VISION

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• Ford establishes a Global Marketing, Sales and Service Operations office to integrate and drive a more consistent and compelling connection with customers around the world
• Elena Ford named to new position of director, Global Marketing, Sales and Service Operations to lead implementation of the company’s “One Ford” marketing vision
• New global Ford Focus small car in 2010 will be the first product to benefit from global coordination

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 27, 2009 – Ford Motor Company today announced changes to its Global Marketing organization to create a more consistent and compelling connection with customers worldwide, while better leveraging the company’s global assets and capabilities.

Leading the effort will be Elena Ford, 42, who has been named director, Global Marketing, Sales and Service Operations, reporting to Jim Farley, Ford group vice president, Marketing and Communications. Elena Ford, who is currently executive vice president, Ford Motor Credit Company Global Brand and Marketing, begins her new assignment Feb. 1.

“Enhancing the Global Marketing organization is the next step in our One Ford vision to integrate Ford’s worldwide operations and leverage our scale and expertise,” Farley said. “Elena brings a wealth of experience to the new position and is the ideal leader to drive a coordinated approach for our worldwide marketing efforts and speak with one consistent and compelling voice to customers.”

This marketing approach follows consolidation of Ford’s global product development activities in 2006 and global purchasing operations in 2008. It also reflects an aggressive move to global vehicles. All Ford vehicles competing in global segments will be common in North America, Europe and Asia within the next five years. They include Fiesta- and Focus-sized small cars, Fusion- and Mondeo-sized mid-size cars and utilities, and commercial vans.

In the newly established role, Elena Ford will be responsible for:

• Leading Ford’s Global Marketing, Sales and Service Operations to drive commonality and standardization of marketing resources. This includes integrating the company’s marketing team members, global agencies and other supplier partners with a common and integrated plan to bring new global vehicles to market.
• Driving a governance process on strategic and operations matters across Marketing, Sales and Service.
• Enhancing Ford’s brand image around the world.
• Driving greater presence of the Ford brand at global auto shows and other consumer-facing events to create a more experiential connection with customers.
• Expanding the offering of Ford-branded licensed merchandise around the world.

The new Ford Focus global small car – which will be introduced in North America, Europe and Asia nearly simultaneously in 2010 – will be the first vehicle to benefit from global coordination. The new Focus’ introduction will build on lessons learned from the current launch of the new Fiesta, the company’s first global product under its One Ford vision.

In addition to a more consistent and higher-quality communication of the new Focus around the world, Ford expects that a globally integrated marketing launch will result in millions of dollars of cost savings.

“Our new products are being recognized for excellence around the world, and they are leading the competition in quality, fuel efficiency, safety and smart technologies,” Farley said. “Now, our job is to more effectively and efficiently connect these great products with our customers and build on Ford’s strength as one of the world’s most admired companies and brands.”

Elena Ford joined the company in 1995 as the truck advertising specialist for Ford Division. She has held marketing leadership positions representing all regions and brands around the world.

Prior to her current assignment at Ford Credit, she has served as: director of North America product marketing, planning and strategy; director of North America product marketing; director of Ford Division product marketing; and director of Business Strategy for International Automotive Operations.

Before joining the company, Elena Ford was a senior account executive for Wells, Rich Green Advertising in New York. She is the great-great-granddaughter of company founder Henry Ford.

FORD OF EUROPE STRENGTHENS MARKET SHARE IN 2008 AND TAKES NUMBER TWO POSITION

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• In 2008, Ford of Europe increased its full year market share by 0.1 percentage points to 8.6 per cent versus 2007
• Total market share increased in 15 out of 19 markets; ten out of 19 markets had sales gains in 2008 compared with 2007, despite difficult industry conditions
• Ford now established as the second best-selling brand in Europe
• New Fiesta was best-selling model in the UK in November and December, and is already second best-selling Ford model in Europe
• Ford remains market leader in UK, makes consistent market share gains in Germany, and is best-selling passenger car brand in Spain

COLOGNE, January 14, 2009 – A strong product range, led by the brand-new, award-winning Fiesta, allowed Ford of Europe to consolidate its market position in 2008 and firmly establish Ford as Europe's second best-selling vehicle brand, despite the difficult economic conditions.

The company increased its market share in 15 of its main 19 European markets. Even with a deep industry decline in traditionally strong Ford markets like the UK and Spain, Ford of Europe increased its full year 2008 market share slightly across its main 19 markets by 0.1 percentage points to 8.6 per cent.

In particular the new Fiesta is proving a hit with customers: only two months after going on sale in late 2008, more than 61,000 new Fiestas have been sold in the main 19 European markets, making it the second best selling Ford car behind the Focus.

As soon as it went on sale in the UK, it became the best-selling car for both November and December.

"I am pleased that Ford has been established solidly as Europe's second best selling brand. This is clear recognition of our strong product portfolio which puts us in a better position than many," said Ingvar Sviggum, Vice President, Marketing, Sales and Service, Ford of Europe.

"We are particularly delighted that the new Fiesta has got off to such a strong start. It has already become our second best-selling model in Europe, and it was the best-selling model industry-wide for November and December in the UK. This gives us real confidence that the Ford brand will emerge even stronger when the economy rebounds. With our newly introduced small and fuel-efficient Fiesta and Ka models we are in a great position for when that happens", Sviggum added.

December Sales Down, Market Share Stable
In December 2008, Ford of Europe sold 90,500 vehicles across its 19 European markets. This was down 19.7 per cent versus December 2007, a reduction of 22,200 units.

However, Ford's market share in these countries remained stable versus the same month the previous year. Contrary to the overall industry trend, the company increased sales in four of its 19 main European markets: France, Portugal, Finland and Switzerland.

Across its 51 European markets, Ford sold 118,300 vehicles, down 25.6 per cent versus the same month last year.

Top selling Ford models in the 19 main European markets were the Focus (20,300), new Fiesta (18,600) and Transit (10,500). In France, the Fiesta, S-MAX and C-MAX were the best-selling imported vehicles in their segments.

Among other sales highlights for the month, three of the company's five biggest markets achieved market share gains:

• Despite a challenging economic environment, Ford improved its share in Spain for December by 0.4 percentage points to 8.1 per cent
• In Italy, market share increased by 0.8 percentage points to 7.5 per cent
• Market share in France rose by 0.6 percentage points to 5.3 percent.

Ford of Britain confirmed its market-leadership again with a 16.7 per cent December share, down 0.7 percentage points from December 2007, and Ireland, where market share soared by 15.9 percentage points to 21.4 per cent in Decemberhad the highest market share within the Ford of Europe sales organisation.

Ford of Europe Established as Second Best-Selling Brand in 2008
With an 8.6 per cent market share, Ford in its main 19 European markets established a solid position as Europe's second best-selling brand in 2008.

Sales volume, however, was down for the full year in these 19 markets by 7.4 per cent compared to the same period in 2007. This compares to a 7.6 per cent overall decline for the industry. In total, Ford sold 1,443,800 vehicles in total, and 10 out of these 19 markets had sales gains in 2008 compared with 2007, despite the difficult industry conditions.

Ford sales in the European Direct Markets were at 80,500 in the full year 2008, a 23.6 per cent increase over 2007. Across all of its 51 European markets, the company sold 1,783,500 units in 2008, down 6.1 per cent when compared to the same period in 2007.
Ford's popularity among private retail customers in the UK made Britain the company's top performing market throughout the year, selling 406,100 vehicles in 2008 and giving it a market share of 16.4 per cent.

Germany had a strong year, characterised by consistent market share gains. Ford sold 241,400 vehicles there (an increase of 6,200 units or up 2.7 per cent versus 2007), lifting its full year market share by 0.3 percentage points to 7.0 per cent.

In France, with the help of a government scrappage scheme, Ford boosted sales by 6.6 percentage points to 142,600 vehicles, raising its market share by 0.3 percentage points, to 5.3 per cent.

For the first time since 1995, Ford was the best-selling passenger car brand in Spain, with a market share of 9.2 per cent. The Ford Focus was Spain's best-selling car for the year.

Although sales in Italy fell to 190,300 (a reduction of 33,700 units), Ford remained the country's leading imported automotive brand and, despite a weak close to the year in Russia, 2008 full year sales there improved by 6.0 percentage points to 185,200.

"In a difficult economic environment, we were able to improve our overall market share last year thanks to the strongest product line-up in our history, and the early success of our new Fiesta" said John Fleming, Ford of Europe Chairman and CEO. "We believe this strength is a key factor in helping us to deal with the challenge of the deep economic crisis for as long as it lasts, and will allow us to take full advantage of an upturn in demand when it does arrive."

FORD BATTERY ELECTRIC VEHICLE TEST UNIT

Image via WikipediaA passenger car that doesn’t use a drop of gas isn’t just a flight of futuristic fancy. Test vehicles are already are on the road as Ford Motor Company charges ahead with its aggressive new electrification strategy.

Ford is bringing a new family of electrified vehicles to market over the next four years. The strategy calls for the introduction of new hybrids, a Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) and Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) based on two new global product platforms. The plan calls for the introduction in 2011 of a pure BEV – using cutting-edge lithium-ion battery technology – as a passenger car in North America.

As Ford and partner Magna International hustle to bring this new BEV to market, test vehicles have been on the road for more than six months, racking up thousands of miles of testing and evaluation.

Why hasn’t Ford’s BEV test vehicle been spotted on public roadways? Because it looks just like a 2009 Ford Focus. And just like inside any Focus, the driver is likely to be smiling because the first test vehicles of Ford’s BEV drivetrain technology are loads of fun to drive.

Under the skin of the Ford Focus test vehicle is a new all-electric powertrain that will go into a Ford’s new-generation C-sized global vehicle platform. The BEV will first be introduced in North America, with the potential to migrate to the European and Asia Pacific markets down the road. Test mules using current model bodies are often used by automotive engineers to prove out technology and conceal future technology from prying eyes.

Ford’s quick-to-market approach with a pure BEV will be made possible through a collaboration with Magna International, a world-class automotive supplier with deep technology expertise. While the technology development continues, in its current form, the technology is already proving itself as it runs through the paces under its temporary Focus skin.

Electrification of two key global Ford product platforms – one for Focus-size small cars and the other for Fusion-size CD cars – means the electric vehicle powertrain uses the existing structure of the vehicle platform. That means Ford can truly make the most of global economies of scale to produce new electrified vehicle technology affordably.

“When we drove the test vehicle for the first time, the quality just blew us away,” said Lisa Drake, chief engineer, Ford Sustainable Mobility Technology. “This really validates Ford’s strategy on electrification with BEVs playing a key role in the technology transformation.”

“Our objective was to make this test vehicle as great to drive as any Ford Focus,” said Dick DeVogelaere, Magna International chief engineer on the project. “We’re demonstrating that with a battery electric vehicle you don’t have to give up anything. Everything you love about the Focus is still there. It’s very responsive and has great driveability.”

Charge It
The BEV test vehicle does not have an internal combustion engine. Instead it is powered by an electric motor and high-voltage lithium-ion battery cells. After an overnight charge, it’s ready for a range of more than 80 miles. That’s 80 miles without a single drop of gas. Ford and Magna are targeting a range of up to 100 miles when the vehicle is introduced to the retail market.

Lithium-ion is the latest in electric vehicle battery technology. While the chemistry is similar to the batteries used in consumer goods like laptops and mobile phones, the demands to power a vehicle are different enough to require significantly more intensive technology development. Lithium-ion batteries are lighter and more power efficient that the nickel metal hydride batteries used in today’s hybrid electric vehicles.

The BEV test vehicle features a battery pack with seven modules of 14 lithium-ion cells, giving the vehicle 23 kilowatt hours or usable energy. The battery arrays are packaged in the vehicle trunk and underseat space.

The BEV test vehicle can be charged from either a standard 220-volt or 110-volt power outlet, with respective charge times of 6 or 12 hours.

In the engine compartment, the battery power goes to work. A 100-kilowatt permanent-magnet, chassis-mounted electric traction motor operates on three-phase alternating current (AC). A sophisticated motor controller and inverter convert the battery’s direct current to AC.

The powertrain, including the motor and gearbox, are packaged under the hood just like a gasoline powertrain, using existing powertrain mounts. This makes the electrified vehicle uncompromised in terms of robustness and low noise and vibration. In fact, the BEV test vehicle operates extremely quietly.

The test unit incorporates key components from Ford’s proven hybrid technology, including the electric climate control system. The high-voltage air-conditioning compressor is the same found in the new 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid.

“Even on a test vehicle, you can see that everything is packaged intelligently,” said Drake. “This is the result of a true collaborative effort with a strong partner, demonstrating that we can bring a high-quality fantastic customer experience to the road quickly. Just wait until you see the finished product!”

F-SERIES DRIVES FORD TO HIGHER MARKET SHARE FOR THIRD CONSECUTIVE MONTH

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• Ford, Lincoln and Mercury market share climbs again in December, marking third consecutive month of higher share
• Market share increases driven by F-Series truck; new F-150 piles up more sales and accolades
• Ford Flex caps 2008 with best sales month so far
• Ford Focus posts best sales year since 2004
• Ford Fusion ushers in next generation with near record sales in 2008
• Lincoln outperforms its luxury competitors, grows market share as 2008 concludes

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 5, 2009 – New vehicles, including the all-new F-150 truck, and fuel-efficient powertrains are winning over customers for Ford, Lincoln and Mercury, which realized market share increases for a third consecutive month in December. Ford estimates its market share was 14.6 percent in December, up 0.7 of a point versus a year ago. This marks the first time since 1997 Ford has achieved a market share increase three months in a row.

“This is a strong ending to end a very challenging year,” said Jim Farley, Ford’s group vice president, Marketing and Communications. “In addition to finishing the year with increased market share, we received several accolades from third parties concerning our world-class quality and safety, and we turned some heads on the fuel economy front with our 41 mpg Fusion Hybrid, the most fuel-efficient mid-size sedan in America.”

The F-Series truck played a key role in Ford’s fourth quarter market share gains. The all-new F-150 accounted for 8,600 of total F-Series sales in December, an increase of 84 percent compared with November 2008. For the year, F-Series sales totaled 515,513.

“Our thanks go out to our customers, our dealers and, of course, the Ford employees and supplier partners who design, engineer and manufacture quality, fuel-efficient trucks delivering unmatched capability,” Farley said. “The all-new F-150 affirms what Ford has known for years – that listening to customers provides the best rewards.”

The all-new F-150 recently was named 2009 Motor Trend Truck of the Year™, a finalist for the North American Truck of the Year and the Texas Auto Writers Association’s “Truck of Texas.”

Ford Flex, the company’s newest crossover utility, finished 2008 with its best sales month of the year, netting 2,685 sales. Flex has the highest conquest rate of any Ford vehicle and is a finalist for the North American Car of the Year.

In other car news, Ford Focus posted full-year sales of 195,823, the small car’s highest sales year since 2004 and up 13 percent versus full-year 2007. Focus parlayed SYNC technology and 35 mpg highway fuel economy, which is 5 mpg better than Toyota’s Corolla and 2 mpg better than the smaller Honda Fit, to achieve a market share increase in the competitive small car segment – its first share increase since Focus was introduced during the 2000 model year.

Meanwhile, Ford Fusion posted near-record sales of 147,569 units in 2008. Fusion, Mercury Milan and Lincoln MKZ are redesigned for the 2010 model year and will arrive in dealer showrooms this spring. The first-ever Fusion Hybrid will be America’s most fuel-efficient mid-size car with 41 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on highway – besting the Toyota Camry hybrid by 8 mpg in the city and 2 mpg on highway.

In premium news, Lincoln outpaced the competition as 2008 drew to a close.
Helped by the all-new Lincoln MKS sedan, Lincoln sales totaled 9,053 in December, down 10 percent compared with a year ago. In the fourth quarter, however, Lincoln increased its share in the luxury market as its 16-percent sales decline was less than half of the average decline of all other luxury brands.

U.S. Sales
In December, Ford, Lincoln and Mercury sales totaled 134,114, down 32 percent compared with a year ago. Retail sales to individual customers were down 27 percent, and fleet sales were down 42 percent (including a 57 percent decline in daily rental sales), consistent with Ford’s plans.

For the full year, Ford, Lincoln and Mercury sales totaled 1.9 million, down 20 percent versus a year ago. Retail sales were down 22 percent, and fleet sales were down 17 percent (including a 22 percent decline in daily rental sales), in line with Ford’s plans.

U.S. Market Share
In the Fourth Quarter, Ford, Lincoln and Mercury’s market share is estimated at 15.0 percent, up 0.9 points versus a year ago. This is the first time since 2001 that the company’s Fourth Quarter market share was higher than a year ago.

For the full year of 2008, Ford, Lincoln and Mercury’s market share is estimated at 14.2 percent, down 0.4 points versus a year ago. This marks the company’s smallest decline in market share this decade.