An all-new engine

Every Ford truck engine undergoes a tortuous testing program, and the EcoBoost truck engine was no exception.

“We’re testing this EcoBoost truck engine just as we would all of our other F-150 truck engines – we have exactly the same expectations and it has to pass all our truck durability and reliability tests,” said Kris Norman, powertrain operations manager. “From our standpoint, this is an all-new engine specifically designed and engineered for the F-150. Everything is validated to the higher stress levels and higher customer usage levels found in any F-150 engine.”

Three avenues that test and validate engines are computer analysis, laboratory testing and in-vehicle validation. For the 3.5-liter EcoBoost application in the 2011 F-150, that includes:

• More than 1.5 million hours of analytical time
• More than 13,000 hours of dynamometer testing, including more than 5,000 hours at full boost and more than 2,500 hours at or above 5,000 rpm; the dyno testing helps ensure durability in excess of 150,000 miles
• More than 100,000 hours of vehicle test time encompassing the full range of potential customer operating conditions

All the tests together replicate more than 1.6 million miles of customer usage – the harshest-use customer. A customer profile reflecting extreme-use driving style, road types and vehicle usage, including maximum towing and payload situations, was developed to underpin the testing program.

The computer modeling and system analysis especially have been key.

“Instead of constantly building and testing parts, we want to be smarter and use our computer skills and our ability to model things to do the upfront work,” Norman said. “We want to get everything right at the start, then validate with extensive testing.”

Turning up the heat

Engineers put the 3.5-liter EcoBoost truck engine on an extreme, accelerated pace. The thermal cycling test, for example, replicated conditions from the Arctic Circle to Death Valley to simulate 10 years of use in the harshest environments.

“On a thermal cycling test, for example, we want the engine to get hot as fast as possible, so the best way to do that is to go full boost at high speed,” Norman said. “To test the structure of the engine, we run it at full boost with maximum load. We run thousands of hours at full boost – conditions not attainable in a real-drive situation but important for proving this F-150 is ready to go the distance.”

The 2011 F-150 with EcoBoost will be available in early 2011.

Cutting right to the chase, with the new 3.5-litre EcoBoost engine, the 2011 Ford F-150 will deliver best-in-class towing capability and torque with outstanding fuel economy. That make sense right, that’s likely why a person would consider a V6, for outstanding fuel economy but as truck buyers in Saskatchewan tell us every day, they need a truck that can work. The torque and tow capacity of the new V6, compared to any other V6 available is off the charts. So to our customers looking for a work truck, yeah you may be used to needing a big engine and  go with a V8 but V6 is ridiculous. (You’ll crap when you get down to the numbers… I don’t know how to put it anyway else.) Give it some serious consideration when you call, send in an online request or come in and ask about our trucks. If you need a truck that will work, Capital Ford answers the call!

“Customers have embraced the EcoBoost solution of delivering the power they desire with the fuel economy they demand in a no-compromise package . . . From the start, we have pledged that this solution applies to any engine and any customer. The EcoBoost truck engine for the 2011 F-150 will deliver those attributes and has been specially tuned and tested to deliver the best-in-class towing and capability our truck customers demand.”
Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development.

The key technology built into every EcoBoost engine, including turbocharging and direct fuel injection, is particularly relevant to customers of the 3.5-liter EcoBoost truck engine.

This combination of turbocharging and direct fuel injection delivers a wealth of low-end torque and maintains it across a broad rpm range, which is key in towing applications. The 3.5-liter EcoBoost truck engine delivers 420 lb.-ft. of torque and 365 horsepower to enable best-in-class towing of 11,300 pounds – more than enough to tow a fully loaded three-horse trailer or 30-foot boat, for example. Plus the EcoBoost truck engine does it all on regular fuel and with outstanding fuel economy. I have to stop and give a

ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!!

“Truck customers should think of the EcoBoost truck engine as a gas-powered engine with diesel-type capability and characteristics,” said Jim Mazuchowski, V6 engines program manager. “The twin turbochargers and direct injection give it the broad, flat torque curve that makes towing with a diesel so effortless – and hard acceleration so much fun.”

Up to 90 percent of the EcoBoost truck engine’s peak torque is available from 1,700 rpm to 5,000 rpm. A typical comparable V8 competitor reaches peak torque at higher engine speeds – around 4,000 rpm – and holds it for a much smaller range.

“This is good news for customers because the combination of reaching peak torque at a lower engine speed, and maintaining that torque for a longer period, brings new levels of fuel efficiency with maximum towing capability other competitors can’t match,” said Mazuchowski.

This EcoBoost truck engine also features twin independent variable camshaft timing, or Ti-VCT, to help save fuel. Ti-VCT provides extremely precise variable – yet independent – control of timing for intake and exhaust valves. Ti-VCT also reduces emissions, especially in situations when the throttle is partially open.

Independent adjustment of intake and exhaust valve timing allows maximum fuel economy at part-throttle, while delivering optimized power in full-throttle situations. An added benefit is improved driveability and responsiveness across the torque curve.

So V6 Fuel economy and big daddy diesel characteristics, it sounds awfully good. I can’t wait until we have the opportunity to test it’s mettle! Want some information, why not visit our Capital Ford website and send in a request?

When we got on the phone with Thomas we dived right into it, asking how he got his start at Ford.

How did you get your start with Ford?

After Thomas explained his interest in sustainability and the natural progression to becoming the global Sustainability Report Manager for Ford Motor Company I asked him for a little bit of background into life in the Ford Sustainability Department and  what he liked best about working in such a key role for FoMoCo.

Can you give us a glimpse into the your career at FoMoCo? It must be fun!

Just last week, the Leafy Lundi was centered around the Transit Connect Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) in an article titled Get connected with a Green Fleet. It was launched at the Chicago auto show in the middle of February and is very impressive for small business owners. You can read all about it on our blog but we wanted to know when it was expected to hit the road in Canada for our customers.

When do you expect the Battery Electric Transit Connect to hit the road?

The Transit Connect is great for small business but most folks are looking for a vehicle to get to and from work, get the kids to the rink on the weekends, go on a quick weekend excursion or hopefully to the airport for a brief winter hiatus to somewhere hot. The next question was how this technology could be adapted for regular consumers and more importantly what will be the next (BEV) coming down the pipe that isn’t a work van?

Are there any other battery electric vehicles coming down the pipe?

Ford is proud to feature EcoBoost technology, award winning hybrids and now the BEV’s, there are some competing elements there for a greener environment. We’re curious to know how they will all shake out going forward and if one will squeeze out another or if they are all in harmony as a well rounded “Green Ninja” of a portfolio.

How do the 3 main “green” initiatives fit in with sustainability?

In 2011 the Corporate Average Fuel Economy, or café as it’s normally called is raising the bar and broadening the scope of vehicles. This café could be incredibly taxing (well beyond Starbucks!!) for manufacturers. Forget headache, this will be a severe migraine for manufacturers who don’t meet standards. The requirements take every single vehicle sold across the US and Canada then assess a penalty of $5.50 USD for every 0.1 mpg under the standard….. so very roughly for Ford it would mean $80 MIL for ever 0.1 MPG not meeting the standard. We wanted to know how Ford stacks up against other car makers and what the plan is to high jump this raised bar.

How is Ford positioned to meet upcoming fuel economy mandates? (CAFE)

Recently posted on The Ford Story website was an article about Ford’s Go Green Dealership program. As a dealership, leveraging Ford’s expertise in sustainability is an attractive offer. Capital Ford has implemented multiple recycling stations for paper and cans along with some electricity conservation measures but the voluntary Ford program takes it to another level. We wanted to know if we had a shot at being a Go Green dealer and if there are any being built or retrofitted to date.

Can you tell us about the voluntary Go-Green program for dealers?

Of course, what would a good interview be without a dig for something ground breaking that no one knows about yet and has yet to cover. We asked Thomas for a peek down the rabbit hole to what’s the next new, big extraordinary effort coming from Ford sustainability next.

Can you give us a peek down the rabbit hole at anything big new or cool?

On behalf of Capital Ford we want to acknowledge the interview with a huge Saskatchewanian “Thank You” to Thomas, who just before taking my call just ended a conference call with some European counterparts. He’s a very busy man and we’re privileged to take up a little of his time. I’d be crazy not to thank Ms. Gwen Peake for putting the whole thing together for us. As the Global Digital Communications Manager for Ford I’m confident she has little time to spare and we’re awfully lucky to have won her support.

You can check out all of Ford’s Sustainability Reports all the way back to 2001 on their website here.

I have to tell you, thinking back at how I drove my parents mini-van there’s no chance I would pass up a technology like MyKey when my wife and I have children. Before I get into the specifics of how MyKey™ will save you’re vehicle from you children check out this great video showcasing a few of the highlights.

How cool is that!? Ok, the kids might not think so but MyKey offers tons of programmable features and some unchangeable ones to ensure the safety of inexperienced drivers or even experienced ones you’re worried might “bag drive” your new Ford.

Some of the standard unchangeable features are:

• Belt-Minder® System cannot be disabled and will not expire (the stereo also gets muted until everyone buckles up)**
• The audio system will be muted whenever Belt-Minder is activated. No tunes if your not buckled up!
• Low-fuel warnings are displayed in the message center followed by a chime when the Distance-to-Empty value reaches 120 km, about twice as soon as normal.
• If equipped, the parking aid, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS™) with cross-traffic alert and forward collision warning cannot be turned off

Some of the optional settings include:

• Vehicle speed is limited to 130 kmh or your predetermined choice. (As funny as it would be it’s not recommended to set it to 30 km then watch and laugh as they try to get somewhere)
• Visual warnings and chimes are displayed:
  • At vehicle start to inform the driver that the vehicle speed is limited to 80 mph (130 kmh)
  • At 75 mph to warn the driver that the vehicle speed is near the top speed
  • At 80 mph to warn the driver that the vehicle has reached the top speed
• The driver is encouraged to check his/her speed and drive safely via visual warnings and chimes when a preselected vehicle speed of 75, 90, or 105 kmh is exceeded
• The maximum volume of the audio system is limited to 45 percent. (This is my favorite… you could totally bribe reward good marks in school with an extra 20% volume on the weekend)
• The AdvanceTrac® System cannot be turned off. When this optional setting is on, the MyKey user will not be able to deactivate the system. This prevents the driver from burning the tires, performing doughnuts, smoke-shows or as a teen my personal specialty, reverse 180 or 360 whips (sorry Mom and Dad) etc.

If you’d like to see MyKey first hand come down to Capital Ford Lincoln anytime or to make it easier for you give us a shout. 546-6052 to talk directly to our Internet Department and we’ll arrange the time that works best for you to have a vehicle with MyKey warmed up, washed off and ready to go. You can also drop us a line in the comments or from our Capital Ford Lincoln website anytime.

What do you think of MyKey? Can you see the value in having a little bit of control over your vehicle while someone else is driving? Was I right that this could be as comfortable as a reassuring hug?

The Ford Taurus SHO uses EcoBoost technology, crushing the German tuned V8. If you’d like to learn more about EcoBoost check out “The New EcoBoost Engine” post from a few months back, outlining the technology. There’s even a video explaining the twin turbocharged cycle.

If your in the market for a V8 grinding and innovative sedan that turns high end Luxury vehicles into laughing stocks then you need to check out the Ford Taurus SHO at your Regina Ford Dealer, Capital Ford Lincoln. We’d be happy to take you for a spin, in the mean time… what’s your impression of the 2010 Ford Taurus?

Conan attempting to sell his SHO at a high-end auction.

The TV star’s long-running relationship with his 1992 Ford Taurus SHO was challenged when the all-new 2010 Taurus SHO made an appearance on the late-night comedy show on October 29, 2009. A national audience saw firsthand whether O’Brien’s loyal love for his Jewel Green SHO could be tempted with the latest SHO head-turner from Ford.

O’Brien’s second-generation Taurus SHO has been the focus of the late night comedian’s skits many times including during O’Brien’s premier as host of “The Tonight Show” earlier this year.

During the skit O’Brien, who is confident there could never be a better performance sedan than his 1992 Taurus SHO, is tempted by the 2010 model’s 365-horespower V-6 and its high tech features. Amy Marentic, Ford’s Group marketing manager for Taurus, teaches O’Brien a thing or two when it comes to the Taurus SHO.

Amy Marentic, Ford’s Group marketing manger for Taurus, who teaches O’Brien a thing or two about the 2010 Taurus SHO.

In 1989 the Taurus SHO was created for those automotive enthusiast needing the room and capability of a four-door full-size car. Loved for its high performance and unassuming exterior the Ford Taurus resulted in over 100,000 sales in the limited production throughout 1999.

The original Taurus SHO generated a loyal following of owners, with an active club more than 1,000 members strong, an online forum with more than 10,000 registered users and a Web site (bringbackthesho.com) specifically devoted to convincing Ford to resurrect the SHO.  The 2010 Taurus product development team spent significant time listening to SHO enthusiasts.

The new Taurus debuted to rave reviews from the automotive press, and early customer demand validates the critical acclaim.  The foundation of the new 2010 Taurus SHO is a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V-6 engine.  This advanced powerplant generates an estimated 365 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 350 ft.-lbs. of torque at 3,500 rpm, resulting in significantly improved power, torque and fuel economy compared with larger, normally aspirated engines.  This also is Ford’s most powerful EcoBoost engine.

Want to learn more about the unique sleek 2010 Ford Taurus SHO?! Come on down to Capital Ford Lincoln today and ask to speak to one of product specialists.

In 2008 Funkmaster Flex Rolled Out A Limited Edition Expedition.

A fan asks “What is unique about the Ford that other cars manufacturers don’t have? How many Fords do you have?” Funkmaster Flex replies with, “I love how ford has changed up the sheet metal over the last 5 years. I own an Expedition, 2010 mustang, 1970 mustang. 1971 Torino and 1968 Fastback Mustang.”

Funkmaster Flex is an avid car enthusiast, customizing new vehicles and building vintage cars with special attention to style and performance. Most recently, Flex customized the all-new 2010 Ford Taurus SHO and what does he love most? “My favorites are the SYNC technology and Eco Boost. There are others such as BLIS and Cross Traffic Alert.”

FMF says, “My favorites are the SYNC technology and Eco Boost. There are others such as BLIS and Cross Traffic Alert.”

“Here’s a vehicle that has so much history and stands on its own in terms of design and attitude,” said Funkmaster Flex. “It’s definitely different from anything that I’ve ever done before. It’s much more subdued and doesn’t scream at you in terms of its paint job and overall effect. I really took a vehicle that already had everything in terms of its styling and design and gave it a real stealth-like feel.”

Earl Lucas, designer of the all-new 2010 Taurus SHO knew exactly what Funkmaster Flex wanted to convey when he met with him in the Bronx during the initial design consultation.

“Flex wanted to put his spin on the vehicle while keeping the Taurus’s history and sophistication in mind. Flex was able to take that inspiration and customize it in a way that was both timeless and mature,” said Lucas.

The exterior of the vehicle features a two-tone black and metal grey paint job complete with custom 22-inch wheels and Pirelli tires. The vehicle was also lowered with a HR spring kit and a Billet Grille and custom door handles were added.

In addition, the vehicle features a one-off front spoiler and rear window wing. All of the rims and the trim in the vehicle were finished in brushed black chrome. The interior was left the same with the exception of adding a black suede headliner and the signature FMF logos on the headrests.

“Flex really created a design that veered away from what we traditionally expect from him,” said Lucas. “He is amazing in what he does and what he ultimately did to this vehicle. When you get a chance to work with someone who has perspective on what’s new, what’s hot and what’s now, it’s great.”

Want to customize your ride? Come on down to Capital Ford Lincoln today and Meet Peter Koutsourelis our Accessories Manager. Want to know more about Peter? Check out his latest blog post, Bring in the New Year with a bang, & some bling!

Keeping with our Capital Tailgate goal of supplying great information we’ve also included this short video explaining how EcoBoost works. It’s an animation of how it all comes together.

Here are some key highlights on Ford’s new EcoBoost technology:

Power and fuel economy –

The twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter Duratec V-6 EcoBoost engine produces 355 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 350 ft.-lb. of torque at 3,500 rpm. A 10-15 percent fuel-economy benefit is expected versus normally aspirated 4.6-liter V-8 engines in the same competitive class.

Engine –

The proven Duratec 3.5-liter V-6 comprises the base engine architecture. To handle the increased torque that EcoBoost delivers, some upgrades were made to some of the components, such as the cylinder block, crankshaft, connecting rods pistons and exhaust valves to ensure the EcoBoost V-6 engine is as robust as possible.

Turbochargers –

Two Honeywell GT15 turbochargers with water-cooled bearings and operate in parallel, spinning at approximately 170,000 rpm up to 12 PSI. They are rated for a 150,000-mile, 10-year life.

Direct fuel injection –

A cam-driven high-pressure fuel pump feeds the fuel injectors at pressures ranging from 200 to 2,175 PSI (pounds per square inch) depending on customer driving. A typical port fuel injection system operates at pressures of around 60 PSI. Six sprayers in each injector target fuel into the cylinder, resulting in a cleaner and more-efficient fuel burn and better cold-start emissions.

The 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 accumulates thousands of hours on the Ford dynamometer to verify the reliability of the complete engine system. During the punishing testing, engine performance is examined under maximum engine speeds and loads, coolant and oil temperatures and customer driving pattern