Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Translogic examines the power of plug-in hybrids for commercial fleets]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/translogic-examines-the-power-of-plug-in-hybrids-for-commercial/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/translogic-examines-the-power-of-plug-in-hybrids-for-commercial/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/translogic-examines-the-power-of-plug-in-hybrids-for-commercial/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

ALTe Ford F-150

The crew at Translogic took the time to stop by and see the the team at ALTe Powertrain Technologies recently. Founded by a group of former Tesla Motors executives, the company focuses on building plug-in hybrid conversions for fleet vehicles. From creations like a Ford F-150 with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine and two 60-kilowatt electric motors to full-size delivery trucks, buses and vans, the company is focused on reducing fuel consumption on some of the largest and hardest-working machinery out there. ALTe says the F-150 conversion supplies up to 465 pound-feet of torque, which is more than the old 4.6-liter V8.

Most of the truck conversions come with 22-kWh lithium-ion battery packs, which yield 25-40 miles of all-electric range. From there, the four-cylinder kicks in to keep the batteries charged and the motors spinning.

ALTe says the company has focused on Ford conversions first, since the F-Series is the largest-selling pickup in the country. While E-Series and Panther-based creations are also on the docket, ALTe is also focusing on partnering with OEMs in China. Scroll down to check out the video for yourself.

Continue reading Translogic examines the power of plug-in hybrids for commercial fleets

Translogic examines the power of plug-in hybrids for commercial fleets originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 May 2012 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>altealte powertrain technologiesf-150fordford f-150hybridplug-inplug-in hybridThu, 17 May 2012 16:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20239129/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/17/translogic-examines-the-power-of-plug-in-hybrids-for-commercial/20239129/article-detail.xml 20239129 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/alte-ford-f-150_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/alte-ford-f-150.jpg <![CDATA[New Ram ad joins Chevy in knocking Ford F-150]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/27/new-ram-ad-joins-chevy-in-knocking-ford-f-150/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/27/new-ram-ad-joins-chevy-in-knocking-ford-f-150/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/27/new-ram-ad-joins-chevy-in-knocking-ford-f-150/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Dodge Ram commercial

It's probably a toss-up as to what's worse about life at the top: the loneliness or the rocks that everyone throws at you. Chevrolet recently took aim at Ford with a humorous Super Bowl commercial that not only took the unusual step of calling Ford out by name, but made claims about the segment that Ford didn't find funny at all.

Ram is next up to lob a light-duty boulder with a commercial that says if you take one of its trucks and make it less capable, then you end up with a Ford. For what it's worth, such claims are, rather obviously, directed at specific trims with specific options and packages.

We imagine that eventually the sleeping giant, Ford, will awaken and respond. For now, you can find the provocation after the jump.

Continue reading New Ram ad joins Chevy in knocking Ford F-150

New Ram ad joins Chevy in knocking Ford F-150 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1500adchevrolet silveradocommercialf-150ford f-150ram 1500youtubeMon, 27 Feb 2012 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20179799/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/27/new-ram-ad-joins-chevy-in-knocking-ford-f-150/20179799/article-detail.xml 20179799 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/ramf-150jabad_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/ramf-150jabad.jpg <![CDATA[Silverado Super Bowl ad may have benefited Ford more than Chevy [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/silverado-super-bowl-ad-may-have-benefited-ford-more-than-chevy/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/silverado-super-bowl-ad-may-have-benefited-ford-more-than-chevy/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/silverado-super-bowl-ad-may-have-benefited-ford-more-than-chevy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Chevrolet Silverado Ad

General Motors took dead aim at the Ford F-150 during the Super Bowl by airing a spot for the Chevrolet Silverado. The ad featured a post-apocalyptic scene where only Silverado owners survived the end of the world and Ford customers were left to fade into the fossil record. Interestingly enough, however, the spot may not have had the intended effect of pushing more eyes toward GM products.

According to TheCarConnection.com, the ad may have benefited Ford more than Chevrolet. Kelley Blue Book keeps an eye on which vehicles visitors to the site are interested in, and Ford saw an immediate uptick directly after the GM commercial aired. Ford didn't have a big Super Bowl ad this year.

That wasn't all. Ford continued to see a swell in shopping in the days after the Super Bowl. Interest in the Silverado, meanwhile, rose slightly when the ad aired before leveling off during the remainder of the game and falling shortly thereafter. Interest in the F-150, meanwhile, continued to surge. According to TheCarConnection.com, the F-150 saw a greater boost in shoppers week over week while the Silverado fell off by 25 percent. Turns out Ford shouldn't have been so upset about the spot after all. Click past the jump to see the ad one more time.

Continue reading Silverado Super Bowl ad may have benefited Ford more than Chevy [w/video]

Silverado Super Bowl ad may have benefited Ford more than Chevy [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingchevroletchevrolet silveradochevrolet super bowl adcommercialf-150fordford f-150marketingsilveradosuper bowlFri, 10 Feb 2012 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168926/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/silverado-super-bowl-ad-may-have-benefited-ford-more-than-chevy/20168926/article-detail.xml 20168926 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/silverado-ad_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/silverado-ad.jpg <![CDATA[Chinese carmaker blatantly copies Ford F-150]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/chinese-carmaker-blatantly-copies-ford-f-150/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/chinese-carmaker-blatantly-copies-ford-f-150/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/chinese-carmaker-blatantly-copies-ford-f-150/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

China's F-150 aping JAC 4R3 pickup

The Ford F-150 has just picked up a doppelganger in China. According to CarNewsChina, Jianghuai Auto Corporation has just unveiled its new 4R3 pickup, and sure enough, the vehicle looks to be a near carbon copy of America's best-selling truck. JAC reportedly wants to provide buyers in China, Africa and South America with a larger, inexpensive work vehicle. While the appearances of the Ford F-Series and 4R3 visuals differ ever so slightly, the similarities far outweigh the incongruities. According to CNC, JAC is a fairly small automaker in the People's Republic that specializes in rebodied Hyundai cars, SUVs and pickups.

Word has it the 4R3 will be powered by a 2.8-liter diesel four-cylinder engine generating just 108 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. There's no word on cost at this point. The JAC 4R3 is set to debut at the Beijing Motor Show in April, though there's no telling how long the vehicle will be on the market before the company gets a call from the lawyers in Dearborn. Head over to CarNewsChina.com for a better look at the F-150 twin.

Chinese carmaker blatantly copies Ford F-150 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford f-1504r3china copyrightcopyright infringementdesign rightsf-150f-seriesfordford f-150intellectual propertyjacjac 4r3jianghuaijianghuai auto corporationTue, 31 Jan 2012 17:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20161074/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/31/chinese-carmaker-blatantly-copies-ford-f-150/20161074/article-detail.xml 20161074 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/jac-4r3-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/jac-4r3-628.jpg <![CDATA[Roush announces new performance product line for the Ford F-150]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/roush-announces-new-performance-product-line-for-the-ford-f-150/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/roush-announces-new-performance-product-line-for-the-ford-f-150/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/roush-announces-new-performance-product-line-for-the-ford-f-150/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Roush Performance Ford F-150

We normally associate with Roush Performance with the Ford Mustang, as we've tested several examples over the year from the race-ready 427R Trak Pak to the current 540 horsepower RS3. The Michigan tuner is now looking to expand, though, and has recently introduced a new line of performance products aimed at another segment of the Ford product line, the F-150.

The F-150's new powertrains are the main focus of Roush's product blitz, with supercharger systems available for both the 5.0-liter and 6.2-liter V8s. Roush has also developed cold air inductions kits for the entire powertrain lineup with the exception of the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. Additionally, Roush is offering a stainless steel cat-back exhaust for most of the F-150 lineup that produces a more aggressive tone than the stock system.

You can read more about the new F-150 products from Roush in the press release after the jump, and you can get a closer glimpse at the supercharger and the exhaust system in the gallery above.

Continue reading Roush announces new performance product line for the Ford F-150

Roush announces new performance product line for the Ford F-150 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford f-150f-150fordford f-150roushroush ford f-150roush performanceFri, 20 Jan 2012 07:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20149748/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/20/roush-announces-new-performance-product-line-for-the-ford-f-150/20149748/article-detail.xml 20149748 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012-roush-f-150_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012-roush-f-150.jpg <![CDATA[2001 Ford F-150 Lightning Rod Concept up for grabs at RM Auctions]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/15/2001-ford-f-150-lightning-rod-concept-up-for-grabs-at-rm-auction/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/15/2001-ford-f-150-lightning-rod-concept-up-for-grabs-at-rm-auction/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/15/2001-ford-f-150-lightning-rod-concept-up-for-grabs-at-rm-auction/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2001 Ford F-150 Lightning Rod Concept

We can't tell you how many times we've each been asked about concept cars, "Why can't I buy one of those?" Well you can. Not often, mind you, and not cheaply. But every once in a while, one of those glitzy concepts you see on a show stand comes up for sale. And now, it's time to grab your checkbooks.

The show car (or truck, to be precise) you see here was the centerpiece of the Ford display at the 2001 Chicago Auto Show. Dubbed the F-150 Lightning Rod, it takes the formula employed by the SVT Lightning to a more stylized extent, with a chopped roofline and raked windshield, flush-fitted neon head- and tail-lights, and a minimalist interior. The whole package is finished in metallic red with a tribal tattoo motif. A 5.4-liter SOHC V8 sat under the hood, mated to a four-speed automatic. The 21-inch aluminum wheels wear tires whose tread is cut to match the tattoo pattern.

This unique concept truck is expected to fetch around $50,000 when it crosses the block at the RM Auctions event in Arizona next week, but while it's in proper running condition, it isn't certified to drive on public streets. Check it out the listing after the jump and browse the attached photo gallery.

Continue reading 2001 Ford F-150 Lightning Rod Concept up for grabs at RM Auctions

2001 Ford F-150 Lightning Rod Concept up for grabs at RM Auctions originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 15 Jan 2012 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2001 chicago auto show2001 ford f-150 lightning rod conceptarizonachicagochicago auto showfordford f-150ford f-150 lightningford f-150 lightning rodford f-150 lightning rod conceptrmrm auctionsscottsdaleSun, 15 Jan 2012 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20147728/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/15/2001-ford-f-150-lightning-rod-concept-up-for-grabs-at-rm-auction/20147728/article-detail.xml 20147728 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/web01-f150-lightning-rod_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/web01-f150-lightning-rod.jpg <![CDATA[Next Ford F-Series to go on diet, make extensive use of aluminum]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/03/next-ford-f-series-to-go-on-diet-make-extensive-use-of-aluminum/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/03/next-ford-f-series-to-go-on-diet-make-extensive-use-of-aluminum/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/03/next-ford-f-series-to-go-on-diet-make-extensive-use-of-aluminum/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Ford F-150

Ford may turn to aluminum body panels on the company's F-Series pickup trucks in an effort to reduce weight. According to Ward's Auto, the next-generation F-Series is set to debut in 2014 and will likely feature aluminum fenders and door skins. The news comes courtesy of two unnamed sources close to the vehicle's development. Right now, the next-gen F-Series is rolling through Ford halls under the name P552, and while the automaker is reticent to go on the record about aluminizing its best-selling model, executives have made it clear that weight-savings is a major priority.

Derrick Kuzak, Ford's Group Vice President of Global Product Development, has previously said the company intends to cut up to 700 pounds per model by 2019. Ditching stamped steel body panels for aluminum would be a good start. Ford has already dabbled in aluminum hoods on both the F-Series and Explorer, and the material is expected to find greater use across automakers in the near future as companies brace for stiffer Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards.

Next Ford F-Series to go on diet, make extensive use of aluminum originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aluminiumaluminumaluminum body panelsderrick kuzakf 150f seriesf-150f-seriesf-series aluminum body panelsf150fordford f-150ford f-seriesTue, 03 Jan 2012 18:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20139301/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/03/next-ford-f-series-to-go-on-diet-make-extensive-use-of-aluminum/20139301/article-detail.xml 20139301 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/ford-f-150-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/ford-f-150-628.jpg <![CDATA[Winners of second annual SEMA Awards announced]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/04/winners-of-second-annual-sema-awards-announced/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/04/winners-of-second-annual-sema-awards-announced/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/04/winners-of-second-annual-sema-awards-announced/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Chevrolet Camaro Hot Wheels Concept

The suspensions are lowered, the dubs are mounted and the votes are tabulated: with the SEMA show in full swing, organizers have announced their top pics for the show.

Rather than name the top tuned cars, the SEMA Awards name the best cars for tuning, in several categories. And so, the winners of the second annual SEMA Awards are...

The hottest car overall is awarded to the Chevrolet Camaro (like the Hot Wheels concept pictured above), the hottest sport-compact is the Fiat 500, the hottest SUV goes to the Jeep Wrangler, and the hottest truck has been named as the Ford F-Series.

All the award recipients are domestics, save for the Fiat 500, and even that is effectively a Chrysler product made in Mexico. So there you have it, ladies and gentlemen. Now crack open your aftermarket parts catalogs and have at 'em.

Winners of second annual SEMA Awards announced originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>500camarochevroletchevrolet camarochevychevy camarof-150f-seriesfiatfiat 500fordford f-150ford f-seriesjeepjeep wranglersemasema awardssema showwranglerFri, 04 Nov 2011 09:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20097579/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/04/winners-of-second-annual-sema-awards-announced/20097579/article-detail.xml 20097579 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/03-chevrolet-camaro-hot-wheels-concept-1320326883_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/03-chevrolet-camaro-hot-wheels-concept-1320326883.jpg <![CDATA[DeeZee American Guardian 2011 F-150 is not to be trifled with]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/03/deezee-american-guardian-2011-f-150-is-not-to-be-trifled-with/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/03/deezee-american-guardian-2011-f-150-is-not-to-be-trifled-with/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/03/deezee-american-guardian-2011-f-150-is-not-to-be-trifled-with/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

DeeZee American Guardian 2011 Ford F-150

We love bull bars. A favorite of law enforcement officers everywhere, the bull bar quietly underscores the fact you aren't just into protecting yourself against future collisions, but that you plan to instigate them. The DeeZee American Guardian 2011 Ford F-150 seems fully capable of nudging traffic out of its way thanks to its Police Interceptor iForce kit by Rockwell Collins. Extra pushing power comes courtesy of an AirRaid intake kit, Maganaflow exhaust and a HyperTech Max Energy Tuner.

Of course, sometimes it's simply better to drive over obstacles than through them. With that in mind, DeeZee threw on a six-inch BDS off-road lift kit, massive Goodyear tires and a set of menacing BMF wheels. The rest of the truck is sprinkled with accessories borrowed from the DeeZee catalog, including bed caps, a cargo carrier and a bed rack. Hit the jump for the quick press release.

Continue reading DeeZee American Guardian 2011 F-150 is not to be trifled with

DeeZee American Guardian 2011 F-150 is not to be trifled with originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 ford f-1502011 semaamerican guardianamerican guardian ford f-150deezeef-150fordford f-150semasema 2011Thu, 03 Nov 2011 09:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20094016/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/03/deezee-american-guardian-2011-f-150-is-not-to-be-trifled-with/20094016/article-detail.xml 20094016 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/01-american-guardian-f-150-628-1319980931_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/01-american-guardian-f-150-628-1319980931.jpg <![CDATA[Ford sweeps Texas Truck Rodeo awards, Chrysler defends SUV crown]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/24/ford-sweeps-texas-truck-rodeo-awards-chrysler-defends-suv-crown/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/24/ford-sweeps-texas-truck-rodeo-awards-chrysler-defends-suv-crown/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/24/ford-sweeps-texas-truck-rodeo-awards-chrysler-defends-suv-crown/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

2011 Ford F-150

The Texas Auto Writers Association has awarded the 2012 Ford F-150 a slew of honors. The pickup took home the Truck of Texas title by beating out its competitors at the annual Truck Rodeo. The award is the association's most prestigious honor, but Ford also picked up a few other nods. TAWA named the company's EcoBoost engine technology its best vehicle feature, and the 2012 Ford Edge took home the CUV of Texas badge. Finally, the entire Ford pickup line was named the Truck Line of Texas by the association, making for a pretty clean sweep of the truck competition.

This year, manufacturers entered 48 vehicles into the TAWA Truck Rodeo, and 57 automotive writers turned out to evaluate the trucks and SUVs. When the dust settled, Ford had earned seven awards total, including the best heavy-duty, luxury and full-size pickup trucks.

For its part, Chrysler saw its products fare well in the competition, too. The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee went home carrying SUV of Texas trophy, while TAWA awarded its sister, the 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, the mid-sized SUV of Texas title. Finally, the writers in attendance named the 2012 Dodge Durango the full-size SUV of Texas.

Hit the jump for a volley of press releases.

Continue reading Ford sweeps Texas Truck Rodeo awards, Chrysler defends SUV crown

Ford sweeps Texas Truck Rodeo awards, Chrysler defends SUV crown originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Oct 2011 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dodgedodge durangodurangoecoboostf-150f-seriesf150fordford f-150grand cherokeejeepjeep grand cherokeejeep wranglertawatexas auto writers associationwranglerMon, 24 Oct 2011 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20088726/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/24/ford-sweeps-texas-truck-rodeo-awards-chrysler-defends-suv-crown/20088726/article-detail.xml 20088726 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/ford-f-150-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/ford-f-150-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford confirms $1.1B investment to build Transit van in Kansas City]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/21/ford-confirms-1-1b-investment-to-build-transit-van-in-kansas-ci/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/21/ford-confirms-1-1b-investment-to-build-transit-van-in-kansas-ci/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/21/ford-confirms-1-1b-investment-to-build-transit-van-in-kansas-ci/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ford Transit Van

Ford has confirmed that its Transit van will be manufactured in Kansas City. The company plans to invest $1.1 billion in facility upgrades and tooling to produce both the next-generation F-150 and the Transit in preparation for the van's arrival on U.S. soil in 2013. That investment is $700 million more than Ford had previously allocated for its Kansas City facility. Ford says the extra cash will go toward new paint and body shops in addition to an integrated stamping plant. The upgrades will also allow Ford to increase F-150 pickup production with the addition of a second manufacturing shift.

Previously, we had heard word that Ford would embrace the T-Series naming convention for the Transit, with models breaking down into trim levels similar to what's seen on the current F-Series, though the press release after the jump specifically refers to the new van as the Transit. Does that mean Ford will rely on a new system of trim designation for the van? It's hard to say, but either way, it certainly sounds like the days of the E-Series/Econoline range are numbered. Hit the jump to see the full press release for yourself.

Continue reading Ford confirms $1.1B investment to build Transit van in Kansas City

Ford confirms $1.1B investment to build Transit van in Kansas City originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Oct 2011 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e-serieseconolinef-150fordford f-150ford transitford transit vankansas citytransittransit vanFri, 21 Oct 2011 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20087369/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/21/ford-confirms-1-1b-investment-to-build-transit-van-in-kansas-ci/20087369/article-detail.xml 20087369 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/transit-van_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/transit-van.jpg <![CDATA[PickupTrucks.com names Ram 1500 best truck for $30K]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/24/pickuptrucks-com-names-ram-1500-best-truck-for-30k/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/24/pickuptrucks-com-names-ram-1500-best-truck-for-30k/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/24/pickuptrucks-com-names-ram-1500-best-truck-for-30k/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



PickupTrucks.com asked five half-ton truck manufacturers to provide their best trucks for $30,000. The entries consisted of the 2011 Chevy Silverado 1500 Extended Cab, 2011 Ford F-150 Regular Cab, 2011 Nissan Titan King Cab, 2011 Ram 1500 Quad Cab and 2011 Toyota Tundra Double Cab, all of which were put through a variety of tests over four days in and around Detroit. Unlike a comparison that seeks model-feature parity, this one allowed for manufacturers to provide whatever they thought was best, which is how you get Ford supplying the only regular cab among the field.

After being run through load tests, brake tests, the drag strip, 0-to-60 and even an autocross run, the crown was given to the Ram 1500 Quad Cab. It didn't scorch its competition, but it was always near the top of the field, which gave it enough to take the glory. There's a video of the test after the jump, or head over to PickupTrucks.com to read the full piece.

Continue reading PickupTrucks.com names Ram 1500 best truck for $30K

PickupTrucks.com names Ram 1500 best truck for $30K originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 24 Sep 2011 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Ford F-150 regular cab2011 Nissan Titan King Cab2011 Ram 1500 Quad Cab2011 Toyota Tundra Double Cabchevrolet silveradoChevrolet Silverado 1500 Extended Cabford f-150nissan titanpickuptrucks.comram 1500toyota tundraSat, 24 Sep 2011 12:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20065424/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/24/pickuptrucks-com-names-ram-1500-best-truck-for-30k/20065424/article-detail.xml 20065424 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/putshootoutram_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/putshootoutram.jpg <![CDATA[Customer in controversial Ford bailout slam ad responds to critics on YouTube]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/19/customer-in-controversial-ford-bailout-slam-ad-responds-to-criti/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/19/customer-in-controversial-ford-bailout-slam-ad-responds-to-criti/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/19/customer-in-controversial-ford-bailout-slam-ad-responds-to-criti/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

ford bailout commercial screenshot

We only know him as Chris, but his words are reverberating around the automotive and business sectors at the moment. He's the star of an unscripted Ford ad that puts real customers in front of not-so-real reporters. Chris was asked why buying American was important to him, and his response centers on the fact that Ford did not take bailout money unlike General Motors and Chrysler.

Chris has decided to post a video of his own to address some of his critics and to try to set the record straight. The Ford fan responds to criticism that this ad was staged, and also explains why he chose to buy his F-150. In addition, Chris also watched and recorded a Fox News segment, and that clip has talking heads Megyn Kelly, Mike Tobin and Steve Moore offering up their take on the Ford spot. Click past the jump to see the original ad, Chris' response and the opinion of Fox News.

Continue reading Customer in controversial Ford bailout slam ad responds to critics on YouTube

Customer in controversial Ford bailout slam ad responds to critics on YouTube originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bailoutchris ford commercialdrive onefordford adford bailoutford bailout commercialford commercialford f-150fox newsmegyn kellymike tobinsteve moorevideoMon, 19 Sep 2011 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20046483/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/19/customer-in-controversial-ford-bailout-slam-ad-responds-to-criti/20046483/article-detail.xml 20046483 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/ford-press-conference-chris_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/ford-press-conference-chris.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 arrives, now with more snakeskin]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/09/2012-ford-harley-davidson-f-150-arrives-now-with-more-snakeskin/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/09/2012-ford-harley-davidson-f-150-arrives-now-with-more-snakeskin/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/09/2012-ford-harley-davidson-f-150-arrives-now-with-more-snakeskin/#commentsFiled under: ,

2012 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150

Harley riders like riding Harleys. But even for the HDMC faithful, certain situations - from bad weather to transporting cargo - call for something with a little more utility. That's where the Harley-Davidson edition Ford F-150 comes in.

Since the two iconic American motor companies first teamed up in 1999, the collaboration has produced ten special edition F-150s, six Super Duty F-250 and F-350 models and even an F-450 a couple of years ago. All in, more than 70,000 examples have been sold.

For 2012, Ford has given the Harley-Davidson F-150 a revised interior, a new set of wheels, a new color option and some updated graphics. The interior now features snakeskin accents (which ought to go perfectly with those snakeskin boots yer kickin'). The new wheels are machined aluminum, measure a massive 22 inches across and feature painted accents and new hubs. The White Platinum Tri-Coat pictured above now joins the catalog, along with the new (and relatively subtle) gray flame along the flanks.

The enormous 6.2-liter V8 packs a hefty 411 horsepower and 434 pound-feet of torque - just a teensy bit more than the V-twin in a Harley hog, and you can read all about the whole package in the press release after the jump and scope it out in the high-res image gallery for more.

Continue reading 2012 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 arrives, now with more snakeskin

2012 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 arrives, now with more snakeskin originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Aug 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford harley-davidson f-150f-150fordford f-150ford harley-davidsonford harley-davidson f-150harleyharley-davidsonharley-davidson f-150hdmcTue, 09 Aug 2011 10:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20013068/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/09/2012-ford-harley-davidson-f-150-arrives-now-with-more-snakeskin/20013068/article-detail.xml 20013068 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/12harleydavidsonf15001hr-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/12harleydavidsonf15001hr-opt.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Consumer Reports</i>: F-150 EcoBoost beats V8 for towing, not efficiency]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/04/consumer-reports-f-150-ecoboost-beats-v8-for-towing-not/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/04/consumer-reports-f-150-ecoboost-beats-v8-for-towing-not/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/04/consumer-reports-f-150-ecoboost-beats-v8-for-towing-not/#commentsFiled under: , ,

ecoboost ford f-150 towing

With early returns showing that truck buyers are really into boosted V6 engines, it appears that Ford hit the ball out of the park when it comes to the F-150 packing an EcoBoost V6. Truck buyers seem to like the fact that the V6 is as powerful as most V8 engines, and the improved fuel economy is the real deal maker.

The EcoBoost V6 boasts 22 miles-per-gallon on the highway, and 16 mpg in the city. Ford's 5.0-liter V6, which is down on torque versus the turbo six, can only muster 21 mpg highway and 15 mpg city. That's all well and good, but what happens in real-life driving conditions?

Consumer Reports put rubber to the road to find out, and the consumer advocacy institution found that the fuel economy numbers were about the same for both engines, though one certainly has a bit more punch than the other.

CR pitted a pair of otherwise identical 2011 F-150 XLT 4x4 Supercrew models against each other in towing and non-towing tests. The non-towing test returned identical fuel economy numbers of 15 mpg, but the EcoBoost Model was a bit faster at passing speeds of 45 mph to 65 mph. CR then put 7,500 pounds on the hitch of each truck, and again both models returned an identical 10 mpg. The EcoBoost was quite a bit more sprightly with a load in tow, taking 1.6 fewer seconds to hit 60 mph, and 1.2 fewer seconds to travel from 45 mph to 65 mph.

So what does this little test tell us? CR says that the 5.0-liter engine is likely a simpler engine than the EcoBoost mill, and it costs $750 less. But if towing is in your future, we're thinking the EcoBoost engine is still the way to go. Plus, we can say that our experience behind the wheel of both engines was rather pleasant. Hit the jump to watch the video review from Consumer Reports.

Continue reading Consumer Reports: F-150 EcoBoost beats V8 for towing, not efficiency

Consumer Reports: F-150 EcoBoost beats V8 for towing, not efficiency originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Aug 2011 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consumer reportsecoboostecoboost v6f-150f-150 ecoboostfordford f-150fuel economytowing testThu, 04 Aug 2011 16:55:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20008636/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/04/consumer-reports-f-150-ecoboost-beats-v8-for-towing-not/20008636/article-detail.xml 20008636 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/f-150-ecoboost-towing_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/f-150-ecoboost-towing.jpg <![CDATA[Ford F-150, Toyota Tundra earn IIHS Top Safety Pick Awards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/12/ford-f-150-toyota-tundra-earn-iihs-top-safety-pick-awards/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/12/ford-f-150-toyota-tundra-earn-iihs-top-safety-pick-awards/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/12/ford-f-150-toyota-tundra-earn-iihs-top-safety-pick-awards/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

2011 Ford F-150 IIHS Full-Size Pickup Rollover Crash Test
IIHS Full-Size Pickup Rollover Crash Testing - Click above for high-res image gallery

Like their body-on-frame SUV cousins, full-size pickup trucks are more prone to roll over than a standard passenger car. That's exactly why it's so important to have a vehicle that earns good marks in roof-strength tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has just released the data on its recent volley of tests on full-size pickup trucks, and both the 2011 Ford F-150 and 2011 Toyota Tundra earned the coveted Top Safety Pick designation. The vehicles earned the highest possible rating of 'good' in the institutes crush test, where a large steel plate is pressed against one corner of the roof to calculate a strength-to-weight ratio.

Meanwhile, the 2011 Nissan Titan took home an acceptable rating in the rollover evaluation while the 2011 Chevrolet Silverado, 2011 GMC Sierra and 2011 Ram 1500 netted marginal scores.

IIHS says that the roof on the Toyota Tundra stood up to 4.5 times the truck's weight while the F-150 handled 4.7 times the pressure. A vehicle must withstand 4 times its weight before five-inches of crush is detected before being awarded a Good rating. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Ford F-150, Toyota Tundra earn IIHS Top Safety Pick Awards

Ford F-150, Toyota Tundra earn IIHS Top Safety Pick Awards originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 May 2011 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f-150fordford f-150iihsiihs top safety pickinsurance institute for highway saffetytop safety picktoyotatoyota tundratundraThu, 12 May 2011 18:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19939008/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/12/ford-f-150-toyota-tundra-earn-iihs-top-safety-pick-awards/19939008/article-detail.xml 19939008 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/01-f150-rollover-test-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/01-f150-rollover-test-630.jpg <![CDATA[Share of trucks being sold in U.S. at 31-year low]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/09/share-of-trucks-being-sold-in-u-s-at-31-year-low/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/09/share-of-trucks-being-sold-in-u-s-at-31-year-low/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/09/share-of-trucks-being-sold-in-u-s-at-31-year-low/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

New Chevrolet pickups being delivered to dealer

Auto sales were up sharply in April, but trucks continue to make up less of the overall pie. Ward's Automotive reports that light-duty pickups accounted for only 11.8 percent of overall vehicle deliveries; the lowest total since Ward's began collecting data back in 1980. Back in 2005, when the auto industry and the economy at large was far healthier, light trucks accounted for 22.9 percent of all vehicles sold.

There are a lot of reasons truck sales are flagging as of late, not the least of which is gasoline prices that are currently at about $4 per gallon nationwide. But truck sales are also being hurt by unemployment rates and continued weakness in the housing sector.

Trucks are no longer such a large portion of over all car sales, but the utilitarian vehicles are still selling far better than they were in 2010. Truck sales are up 17.9 percent year-over-year, but that number has been outpaced by overall growth of 19.4 percent.

While trucks aren't quite as popular as they were a few years ago, we suspect that this trend may lose steam as the economy improves. After all, light trucks continue to outsell cars even with high gas prices and a poor housing market, though the advantage is down to 5,000 units so far in 2011.

Share of trucks being sold in U.S. at 31-year low originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 May 2011 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto salescar saleschevy silveradododge ramford f-150gmc sierratoyota tundratruck buyingtruck salesMon, 09 May 2011 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19935434/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/09/share-of-trucks-being-sold-in-u-s-at-31-year-low/19935434/article-detail.xml 19935434 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/gm-trucks-unloading-at-dealer_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/gm-trucks-unloading-at-dealer.jpg <![CDATA[Feds expand F-150 fuel tank strap investigation to 2.7 million pickups]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/09/feds-expand-f-150-fuel-tank-strap-investigation-to-2-7-million-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/09/feds-expand-f-150-fuel-tank-strap-investigation-to-2-7-million-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/09/feds-expand-f-150-fuel-tank-strap-investigation-to-2-7-million-p/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2001 ford f-150 fuel tank strap rust

The Ford F-150 has been the best-selling truck in America for decades. That's a very big feather in the Blue Oval's cap, but when the truck line is bit by the recall bug, its massive volume can be a very bad thing.

The Detroit News is reporting that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has announced that it has upgraded its investigation into 2.7 million 1997-2001 F-150 pickups for fuel tank straps that have rusted and failed. If the straps rust and fail, NHTSA says there is a chance that the tank could drop and hit the road, causing a fuel leak. Back in September, NHTSA's initial investigation included 1.4 million vehicles.

Of the 339 complaints NHTSA and Ford have received so far, one has resulted in a brief fire that quickly flamed out, while a second complaint lead to a fire that actually destroyed the vehicle. According to the report, there have been a total of nine documented incidents in which fuel has leaked from the tank as a result of a failed tank strap, though there have no injuries linked to these incidents.

For its part, Ford says it is continuing to support NHTSA's investigation. The government safety agency says its investigation has "yielded information that strongly suggests the subject defect as the cause of the reported problem," suggesting a recall may be on the horizon.

Feds expand F-150 fuel tank strap investigation to 2.7 million pickups originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 May 2011 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f seriesf-150f-150 recallf-seriesf150f150 fuel tankford f-150ford pickupford recallfuel tank strap leaknational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsaMon, 09 May 2011 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19935390/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/09/feds-expand-f-150-fuel-tank-strap-investigation-to-2-7-million-p/19935390/article-detail.xml 19935390 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/2001-ford-f-150_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/2001-ford-f-150.jpg <![CDATA[Ford's EcoBoost V6 accounts for 36% of all F-150 sales]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/28/fords-ecoboost-v6-accounts-for-36-of-all-f-150-sales/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/28/fords-ecoboost-v6-accounts-for-36-of-all-f-150-sales/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/28/fords-ecoboost-v6-accounts-for-36-of-all-f-150-sales/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 ecoboost f-150
2011 Ford F-150 EcoBoost - Click above for high-res image gallery

When gas prices hit $4 per gallon in the past, pickup sales suffered as a result. We have to wait until April sales are released to know how much truck sales have been hurt by the latest spike at the pump, but it's clear that the Ford F-150 is getting a big boost from its turbocharged V6.

Automotive News reports that 36 percent of all F-150s are equipped with the optional EcoBoost V6, which costs between $750 and $1,750 depending on the model. What's more, the EcoBoost model is reportedly accounting for 40 percent of all F-150 orders, and there is currently a scant 13-day supply of the boosted trucks.

Traditionally, full-size truck buyers have been more inclined to opt for larger V8 engines, but the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 appears to have changed some minds. The mill's V8-like 365 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque means that capability won't be compromised, while fuel economy rises by up to 20 percent. The Environmental Protection Agency gave the boosted F-150 a 16 mile per gallon city rating and a 22 mpg rating in highway driving.

At the same time, Ford claims a maximum tow rating of 11,300 pounds with an EcoBoost-equipped F-150, depending on the model configuration. For comparison's sake, F-150s that come with the 411-hp, 6.2-liter V8 can also tow 11,300 pounds, but fuel economy tops out at only 18 mpg in highway driving.

With the EcoBoost F-150 off to a rousing start, the next big question is whether the boosted V6 has staying power in the event gas prices drop back down to more normal levels. We'll have to wait and see, but with power and capability that matches other trucks in the F-150 lineup and a significant fuel economy savings, we can't see why not.


Gallery: 2011 Ford F-150: First Drive

2011 Ford F-1502011 Ford F-1502011 Ford F-1502011 Ford F-1502011 Ford F-150

Photos copyright (C)2010 Jeremy Korzeniewski / AOL and Ford Motor Company

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req.]

Ford's EcoBoost V6 accounts for 36% of all F-150 sales originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Apr 2011 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.5-liter v6 turbo4 per gallon gasecoboostecoboost f-150 salesf-150 towingfordford f-150fuel economyThu, 28 Apr 2011 16:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19926433/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/28/fords-ecoboost-v6-accounts-for-36-of-all-f-150-sales/19926433/article-detail.xml 19926433 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/lead1f150fd2011_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/lead1f150fd2011.jpg <![CDATA[Ford F-150 airbag recall balloons by 1.2M units]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/14/ford-f-150-airbag-recall-balloons-by-1-2m-units/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/14/ford-f-150-airbag-recall-balloons-by-1-2m-units/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/14/ford-f-150-airbag-recall-balloons-by-1-2m-units/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2006 ford f-150

Back in February, we told you about the recall of 150,000 Ford F-150 models due to driver-side airbags that went off on their own right after starting the vehicle. At the time, Ford said the recall was limited to 150,000 units out of the 1.3 million vehicles being investigated due to the fact that the problem only surfaced on vehicles built on the first shift at the automaker's Norfolk, Virginia plant.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has announced on its website that the recall has now been extended to include 1.2 million 2004-2006 model year F-150 models, along with its luxury cousin, the Lincoln Mark LT. NHTSA says it has received 238 instances of inadvertent deployment and 77 total injuries.

NHTSA indicates that the airbag issue stems from a clockspring jumper wire that could come in contact with the airbag lower horn plate. The friction between the wire and the horn plate could result in chafing, potentially shorting the circuit. And when that happens, an unsuspecting F-150 owner could receive an airbag surprise.

To fix the problem, owners of the affected vehicles will be able to head to the nearest Ford or Lincoln dealer for a free repair. Technicians will install a new clockspring jumper with a protective mesh cover. Hit the jump to read over the NHTSA press release.

[Source: NHTSA via Pickuptrucks.com]

Continue reading Ford F-150 airbag recall balloons by 1.2M units

Ford F-150 airbag recall balloons by 1.2M units originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.2 million f-150 airbagairbag recallf-150 airbagf-150 recallf-seriesfordford f-150ford recallnhtsaThu, 14 Apr 2011 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19913079/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/14/ford-f-150-airbag-recall-balloons-by-1-2m-units/19913079/article-detail.xml 19913079 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/f-150_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/f-150.jpg -1 2