Car Blog

Other Porsche Highlights Include Silver Plant Quality Award in Europe for plant that manufactures 911 and Boxster

Once again underscoring its reputation as a true premier automobile manufacturer, Porsche has reclaimed what is arguably the industry’s most prestigious position/ranking as the highest-ranked nameplate in the J.D. Power and Associates 2010 Initial Quality Study (IQS).

This highest ranking represents the fourth time in five years that the Porsche brand has been ranked highest among IQS nameplates.

Of course a car’s quality begins in the factory where it is built and in the highly regarded category of “Assembly Plant Quality Award,” Porsche’s acclaimed Stuttgart assembly plant–where the 911 is made–received the Silver plant quality award for Europe.

“Reclaiming the top spot among nameplates in the IQS ranking is not only gratifying for all of us at Porsche, it tangibly reflects our absolute commitment to providing our customers with the highest possible quality and ownership experience,” said Detlev von Platen, president and CEO, Porsche Cars North America. “We take great pride in this award which is a demonstration of the very hard work of everyone in the Porsche organization, especially our highly-renowned designers and engineers and the people who build them. Of course it goes without saying that here in the U.S. our very devoted dealers deserve a lot of accolades as they interface with our customers on a daily basis.”

The IQS serves as the industry benchmark for new-vehicle quality measured at 90 days of ownership. It captures problems experienced by owners in two distinct categories–quality of design and quality of production (defects and malfunctions). Results of the Study are presented using a problems-per-100 vehicles (PP100) metric, often referred to as “things gone wrong.” The study includes quality comparisons by manufacturer, assembly plant, model, and platform.

Porsche averaged just 83 problems per 100 vehicles, well under the industry average of 109 problems per 100 vehicles.

Reddy Ice Holdings, headquartered in Dallas, Texas, is the largest manufacturer and distributor of packaged ice in the United States. One of the company’s products is the Ice Factory, a stand-alone machine that dispenses packaged ice.

Looking for a “greener,” more affordable van to replace some of the vehicles currently in its fleet, including Dodge Sprinters and Chevrolet HHRs, Ready Ice opted for the Ford Transit Connect. The company’s technicians will now drive Transit Connects to service and maintain the thousands of Ice Factory machines throughout the country.

Reddy Ice Holdings, the largest manufacturer and distributor of packaged ice in the United States, employs more than 2,000 people year-round. The company sells its products primarily under the widely known Reddy Ice brand to a variety of customers in 32 states and the District of Columbia.

One of the company’s products is the Ice Factory ice-dispensing machine. There are several thousand machines at various locations throughout the country that need to be serviced and maintained on a regular basis.

The Ice Factory service fleet consists of 250 vehicles, most of them traditional cargo vans. According to Lee Hatch, Reddy Ice corporate fleet manager, Ice Factory service technicians rack up between 25,000 and 50,000 miles annually on each vehicle, and he needed to find a vehicle that could begin to replace some of the large, gas-guzzling vans in the fleet.

Hatch says he spent a great deal of time researching vehicles. His primary criteria were environmental impact, fuel efficiency, cargo-carrying space and vehicle cost.

He chose the Ford Transit Connect because it provides ample cargo-carrying capacity in a compact vehicle. It also offers much better fuel economy and is more environmentally friendly than traditional cargo vans.

Hatch says he also appreciates the Transit Connect’s compact size, which makes the vehicle easier for drivers to maneuver and park. And the price is affordable. Hatch says that in many instances, he can buy two Transit Connects for the same price as one traditional cargo van.

Hatch upfitted his 17 Transit Connects with storage bins for parts and tools. Some of the vehicles have accommodations for refrigeration tanks and equipment.

The response from Ice Factory service technicians driving the Transit Connect has been positive. And future plans are to continue to expand the number of Transit Connects in the Ice Factory fleet.

Ford’s Transit Connect enjoys a global reputation for durability and toughness dating back to its 2003 launch, when an expert jury of European commercial vehicle journalists dubbed it International Van of the Year.

Ford’s Transit Connect is powered by a 2.0-liter I-4 engine with a four-speed automatic overdrive transmission. The vehicle offers double the fuel economy of full-size vans with a rating of 22 mpg city and 25 highway.

The versatile Transit Connect is a global Ford product that can be adapted to multiple commercial business applications. It has more than double the cargo-carrying space of the Chevrolet HHR Panel, and it offers users a cargo payload of up to 1,600 pounds, which means that it can carry a larger payload than the full-size Dodge Ram 1500 standard-cab short-box pickup truck.

The Transit Connect is available now at Ford dealerships throughout the country.

Source: Ford Motor Company

2010 show to Launch Massive Showcase of Advanced Technology

America’s greenest “tier-one” auto show just got greener. The Washington Auto Show®, which houses more green cars than any major U.S. auto show, is redoubling its efforts in 2010 with a 65,000-square foot display known as the “Advanced Technology SuperHighway.”

“We are, literally, putting innovation front and center,” said Charles Stringfellow, CEO of Brown’s Automotive and chairman of the 2010 Washington Auto Show, which is known for its mass appeal as well as its emphasis on public policy. “The concept of the SuperHighway is to provide a central meeting place for policy makers, industry officials, consumers and the media to survey the tremendous advances in the industry.”

The Advanced Technology SuperHighway will be sectioned by advancements in electric, diesel, natural gas, advanced petroleum, biofuels, ethanol, hydrogen and safety technologies. The most ambitious effort to support and promote progressive innovations for the automotive industry, this special exhibit is produced in coordination with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Energy and Department of Transportation and is a testament to the theme of this year’s show; “Change Happens Here.”

Currently, the companies slated to display are:

Audi, AutoPort, BMW, BorgWarner, Bosch, Boulder Electric Vehicle, Bright Automotive, Chrysler, Columbia ParCar, Electric Drive Transportation Association, Enova Systems, Evolve-it, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Lexus, Magna International, Mercedes, Nissan, Novozymes, OnStar, Phoenix Motorcars, Quantum Technologies, Scuderi Engine, Smith Electric Vehicles, THINK, Toyota, UQM Technologies, U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Department of Transportation, Volkswagen, Volvo and Wheego.

The Washington Auto Show, the address where the automotive industry meets public policy, joins key administrative and legislative officials with automotive industry leaders. It is both the largest public show in Washington as well as a niche event: the stage to exchange ideas and information with those shaping the future of the automobile. Building on this platform for collaboration, the 2010 Washington Auto Show is partnering with SAE International and the Electric Drive Transportation Association (EDTA), both of which will co-locate conferences with the Washington Auto Show.

The Washington Auto Show, “Change Happens Here,” is scheduled for January 27-31, at The Walter E. Washington Convention Center.

Source: www.washingtonautoshow.com

The 2010 Ford Flex and the award-winning 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid have been named 2010 All-Stars by AUTOMOBILE Magazine, one of America’s leading automotive lifestyle publications.

This year marks the second consecutive win for the Ford Flex. Last year, AUTOMOBILE Magazine described the 2009 model as a “class act among people movers.”

“For 2010, Ford has equipped the Flex with its much-anticipated EcoBoost(TM) engine, thereby addressing the Flex’s only weakness – power – and effectively transforming it from a well-rounded family hauler into a large sport wagon,” said Jean Jennings, president and editor-in-chief of AUTOMOBILE Magazine. “The Flex is unique in a market brimming with compromised, look-alike utility vehicles and is one of the best-handling full-size crossovers on the market.”

Jason Mase, Ford crossover marketing manager, says it is the design and features available with the Ford Flex that make the vehicle stand out.

“We’re delighted that AUTOMOBILE Magazine has named Flex an All-Star two years running,” he said. “The AUTOMOBILE editors recognize Flex stands apart from the rest of the crossover crowd with unmatched style, tremendous passenger comfort and space, and leading technology features like the available EcoBoost engine, Active Park Assist, Ford SYNC® and a refrigerated second-row console.”

Jennings says what makes the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid special is that it doesn’t drive like a hybrid.

“Its very ordinariness is what makes the Fusion Hybrid an AUTOMOBILE Magazine All-Star,” said Jennings. “The Fusion Hybrid is not a performance machine, but neither does it feel hobbled or inadequate for daily driving. Perhaps the best thing about it is that, apart from the LCD color screens, you might never know you’re driving a hybrid.”

The recognition from AUTOMOBILE Magazine is the latest in a string of prestigious awards for the Fusion Hybrid.

“Third parties are now endorsing what we have known for quite a while,” said Greg Scott, Fusion marketing manager. “The Fusion Hybrid is a great car.”

The AUTOMOBILE Magazine All-Stars are chosen by the AUTOMOBILE Magazine staff, its worldwide bureau chiefs and its contributors, following an intensive test drive of the year’s most innovative and important new cars. Winners are selected based on design, value and performance, driving enjoyment and the vehicle’s ability to redefine an existing category or create a new market segment.

“The level of excellence found during our annual All-Stars competition was at an all-time high and the competition was strong, despite the auto industry coming off its worst year in recent history,” said Jennings. “We whittled down a list of 39 finalists to the 10 All-Stars, and the end results produced a list of true standouts.”

The 2010 Ford Flex: Turning heads today and tomorrow

In addition to being named one of AUTOMOBILE Magazine’s 2010 All-Stars, the 2010 Ford Flex was recently singled out for the 2009 “Collectible Vehicle of the Future” award from the Friends of the National Automotive History Collection (NAHC). Members of the organization, which supports the world-famous automotive collection at the Detroit Public Library, predict Flex will be the vehicle most likely to turn heads at the Woodward Dream Cruise of 2034. Ford’s unique crossover has been turning heads since its introduction in 2007.

For 2010, the Flex offers outstanding fuel economy in the full-size crossover segment with 17 mpg city/24 highway and an unsurpassed 20 mpg combined. It also offers a twin-turbocharged, direct-injected 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 engine, an auto-fold 60/40 second-row split bench seat, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel and the Ford-exclusive MyKey(TM) technology, which allows owners to program a maximum top speed – and radio volume – to encourage safe operation by teen drivers.

Banner year for 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid

2009 has been a banner year for the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid. In addition to being named one of AUTOMOBILE Magazine’s 2010 All-Stars, America’s most fuel-efficient midsize sedan was honored as one of CAR and DRIVER magazine’s “10Best” cars for 2010, and the entire Fusion lineup captured the prestigious MOTOR TREND Car of the Year award. The Fusion Hybrid also is a finalist for North American Car of the Year.

Despite the slump in overall industry sales, Fusion sales are at an all-time high for 2009, with the Fusion Hybrid accounting for almost 20 percent of total Fusion retail sales. And more than 60 percent of Fusion sales have been to customers coming from import brands – mostly Toyota and Honda.

Additional awards and accolades for the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid include:
– “Top Safety Pick” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
– 2009 Ward’s Interior of the Year Special Achievement Award for Best Graphic Display for SmartGauge(TM) with EcoGuide digital instrument cluster
– Great Car for the Long-haul Salesman by Kelley Blue Book kbb.com
– Named one of America’s Top 40 New Cars by MOTOR TREND magazine
– Rated the No. 1 Hybrid Family Sedan by CAR and DRIVER in a recent comparison test by the magazine
– Named 2009 Editors Choice for Fuel Sipper by CAR and DRIVER
– Named Best Hybrid for the Money in the Midsize Car segment by cars.com
– Named one of 2009 Top 10 Green Cars by Kelley Blue Book kbb.com
– Earned The Detroit News Readers’ Choice Award for “Best Value”

Source: Ford Motor Company

The Audi S5 provides the best residual values to its owners, more than other luxury sports cars, according to ALG. The Audi brand also ranks among the top 3 luxury brands for predicted residual value for the second consecutive year, the highest amongst German luxury competitors.

ALG’s 11th annual Residual Value Awards, for the 2010 model year, honored the vehicles in each industry segment that ALG predicts will retain the highest percentage of their original price after a three-year period.

ALG determines the award winners after carefully studying the competition in each segment, historical vehicle residual value performance and industry trends. Vehicle quality, production levels relative to demand, and pricing strategies are among the key factors that affect ALG’s residual value forecasts.

“Audi residual values rank amongst the highest in the luxury segment,” said Johan de Nysschen, President, Audi of America. “The recognition from ALG further confirms that owning an Audi is worthwhile for our customers in many ways.”

“We believe Residual Value remains the best metric for evaluating the overall strength of an automotive brand, and we congratulate Audi for the proven success of their brand and S5 model,” said James Clark, General Manager of ALG. “The ALG Residual Value Awards are recognized throughout the industry and by consumers as the mark of a healthy brand; winning this award is a testament to an exceptionally strong product and all of us at ALG are pleased to recognize that accomplishment.”

Source: Audi

ONE TOP-PERFORMING INDIVIDUAL SET TO TAKE HOME 2010 FORD TAURUS Online Voting Now Open to the Public

• Ford has selected ten outstanding finalists for the “Taurus Top Ten”

• a competition designed to shine a spotlight on individuals that are not only on top in their respective fields, but who also make a difference in the communities around them

• One Grand Prize Winner will take home an all-new 2010 Ford Taurus, receive a $10,000 donation to a charitable organization of their choice and win a trip for two to a high-profile professional basketball experience

• Ford encourages the community to log on and vote at www.fordurban.com/taurustopten

Some sent in essays. Others sent in videos. But when all was said and done only 10 Top Performers could advance to the second round. After weeks of searching for outstanding individuals within the community, Ford Motor Company’s “Taurus Top Ten” online competition is proud to announce their selection of ten finalists who have been chosen to compete for the title of Ford’s 2010 Top Performer in America.

Just as the 2010 Taurus has ten class-exclusive features that make it a top-performing vehicle in the market, Ford chose ten outstanding individuals who are top performers in the fields of philanthropy, business, entertainment and sports whose actions are making positive impacts in the world around them.

The Top Ten Finalists are:

* Anthony Martin of Philadelphia, PA. Founder/Executive Director of the Urban Youth Racing School (UYRS) which uses innovative educational techniques to teach students science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). UYRS uses motorsports to increase students’ exposure to self-directed learning, scientific inquiry and the transfer of knowledge.

* Chianti Cleggett of Trussville, AL. Cleggett founded the Young Women’s Empowerment Conference (YWEC).

* Johnny Deas of Lewisville, TX. A former Marine, Deas founded GREAT IDEAS EDUTAINMENT FOUNDATION – a non-profit using entertainment to teach financial literacy and life skills in urban communities.

*Jovonna Townsend of Philadelphia, PA who is the founder of JO’NI Mentor and Model Program (JMMP), is an after school program dedicated to empowering Philadelphia’s inner city youth between the ages of 14-21.

*Keith Howell of Dallas TX, who created Goals-2-Score Inc. (G2S) in 2001, a non-profit organization working with high school basketball players to earn them college basketball scholarships.

* Kevin De’Laine of Huntsville, AL. De’Laine who served in the US Navy, created the Superior Sports Network with the mission of giving HBCU student athletes a voice, exposure and connection with the world.

* Marcus Carson of Charlotte, NC. Carson is the Executive Director for Growing Kings Inc. – a non-profit organization providing mentoring programs for at-risk middle-school aged boys in Birmingham, Alabama and Charlotte, North Carolina.

* Robert Johnson of Concord, NC. Johnson represents the African American fan base of NASCAR, as the only African American, Strength Conditioning Trainer at the NEXTEL Cup level.

*Thornton Thomas Tipps of Conover, NC. Tipps founded the Carolina College Tours, a non-profit organization created to raise awareness, educate and assist with the transition from high school to college.

*William Friday of Richardmon, VA. As Treasurer for the National Organization of Concerned Black men, Friday has served in various areas of community service.

The “Taurus Top Ten” Grand Prize champion will be determined by the community at large and the winner will be announced during a high-profile professional basketball experience hosted by Famed Sportscaster James Brown . The Grand Prize win is an all-new 2010 Ford Taurus, a $10,000 donation to a charitable organization of the winner’s choice and a trip for two to a high-profile professional basketball experience in Dallas, TX. Voters can log onto www.fordurban.com/topten now through January 21, 2010 to vote for their favorite candidate.

“We are extremely excited about all 10 of the individuals who have been chosen as finalists for the Taurus Top Ten Campaign,” said Crystal Worthem, multicultural marketing manager, Ford Motor Company. “Each of the finalists are doing great things both in their careers and in the community and we are proud to be able to highlight them and their efforts. Giving back to the community has always and continues to be an integral component to Ford’s DNA so to be able to highlight some of the everyday people who are making a difference in their respective communities, is definitely viewed as a win for us.”

The 2010 Ford Taurus, starting at $25,995, the same price as the 2009 model, has been elevated considerably from even its iconic forerunners with its expressive design and class-leading technology which includes technologies like MyKey(TM), SYNC®, Multi-Contour Seats with Active Motion(TM) and a Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®).