Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Ford to add more than 2,000 jobs in Kansas City]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/ford-to-add-more-than-2-000-jobs-in-kansas-city/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/ford-to-add-more-than-2-000-jobs-in-kansas-city/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/ford-to-add-more-than-2-000-jobs-in-kansas-city/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Ford Kansas City

Continued high demand for the Ford F-150, along with the addition of the all-new Transit series of commercial vehicles, has led Ford to announce that it will add over 2,000 jobs at its Kansas City Assembly Plant. At the time of the announcement, the plant boasts 2,450 hourly employees working on two shifts. All told, Ford will invest $1.1 billion in the Kansas City plant to expand truck production and begin producing the Transit series.

According to the automaker, fullsize truck sales are up 19 percent through April of 2013, leading to an additional 900 workers and a third shift of production for the F-150. Production of the Transit series will begin in the fourth quarter of this year, requiring an additional 1,100 workers. In addition, Ford estimates that a total of 18,000 jobs will be created by suppliers to its Kansas City plant to support the additional vehicle production.

Want to know more? Scroll down for the complete press release.

Continue reading Ford to add more than 2,000 jobs in Kansas City

Ford to add more than 2,000 jobs in Kansas City originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 May 2013 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordford f-150ford kansas city assembly plantford transitkansas cityThu, 02 May 2013 00:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20555539/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/02/ford-to-add-more-than-2-000-jobs-in-kansas-city/20555539/article-detail.xml 20555539 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/ford-kansas-city_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/ford-kansas-city.jpg <![CDATA[How the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor became a reality]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/how-the-ford-f-150-svt-raptor-became-a-reality/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/how-the-ford-f-150-svt-raptor-became-a-reality/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/how-the-ford-f-150-svt-raptor-became-a-reality/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ford F-150 SVT Raptor prototype testing camouflaged in the deserve - video screencap
The camouflaged Ford F-150 SVT Raptor prototype captured above blazing its way across the desert during a test run left company engineers giggling in amazement, reveals Jamal Hameedi in a new Autoweek video. Ford's global performance vehicle chief engineer, accompanied by senior exterior designer Bruce Williams, sat down with the publication to discuss the concept and development of the automaker's super off-road F-150.

Designing a high-performance pickup in 2008, right when the cost of gasoline was going through the roof, seemed insane at the time, but the team pushed forward with the innovative vehicle regardless. The interview includes plenty of Ford B-roll footage as visual candy, and the conversations include discussions about exterior design, ride comfort, anti-lock brake tuning, suspension engineering, weight reduction and why it was necessary to make the Raptor visually different than Ford's standard F-150. The model's origin story is very interesting, and you can learn more about it by watching the video below.

Continue reading How the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor became a reality

How the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor became a reality originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 May 2013 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford f-150 svt raptorfordford f-150ford f-150 svt raptorford svt raptorjamal hameediorigin storysvtvideoWed, 01 May 2013 19:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20553904/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/01/how-the-ford-f-150-svt-raptor-became-a-reality/20553904/article-detail.xml 20553904 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/svt-raptor-lead-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/svt-raptor-lead-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford faces class-action lawsuit for selling vehicles without brake override systems]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/29/ford-faces-class-action-lawsuit-for-selling-vehicles-without-bra/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/29/ford-faces-class-action-lawsuit-for-selling-vehicles-without-bra/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/29/ford-faces-class-action-lawsuit-for-selling-vehicles-without-bra/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ford emblem with water droplets

A total of 20 Ford customers are suing the automaker in a class-action lawsuit for selling vehicles "vulnerable to unintended acceleration." According to Reuters, the suit names 30 models built between 2002 and 2010 with electronic throttle control systems but without a brake override system. Those include the 2004-2012 F-Series pickups and the 2005-2009 Lincoln Town Car. Adam Levitt, a partner with the law firm of Grant & Eisenhofer says the plaintiffs in the case want "to be compensated for their economic losses by having overpaid for cars that contained defects." Levitt contends that the plaintiffs would not have bought their vehicles or paid less for them had they known there was no brake override system in place.

Ford began installing brake override systems in its vehicles beginning in 2010. In response to the lawsuit, Ford has pointed to research by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that indicated that unintended acceleration is mostly caused by driver error, saying in a statement that, "NHTSA's work is far more scientific and trustworthy than work done by personal injury lawyers and their paid experts."

Belville et al v. Ford Motor Co. will be heard in US District Court in the Southern District of West Virginia.

Ford faces class-action lawsuit for selling vehicles without brake override systems originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brake overrideclass-actionfordford f-150ford f-seriesford lawsuitgrant and eisenhoferlawsuitlincolnlincoln town carsudden accelerationunintended accelerationFri, 29 Mar 2013 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20523185/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/29/ford-faces-class-action-lawsuit-for-selling-vehicles-without-bra/20523185/article-detail.xml 20523185 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/ford-emblem-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/ford-emblem-628.jpg <![CDATA[Shelby Raptor is a 575-horsepower off-road goliath]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/shelby-ford-f-150-svt-raptor-new-york/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/shelby-ford-f-150-svt-raptor-new-york/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/shelby-ford-f-150-svt-raptor-new-york/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Shelby Raptor

Shelby American has definitely proven itself when it comes to tuning the Ford Mustang - look no further than its new 1,200-horsepower Shelby 1000 - but now the Las Vegas tuner has turned to the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor.

The big change for this already high-performance off-road pickup is the addition of a supercharger atop Ford's 6.2-liter V8, with spent gasses exiting through a Borla exhaust system. This improves the horsepower rating from a stock rating of 411 up to a shenanigan-ready 575. For a Shelby, the styling of this F-150 is very toned down, with only the company's name etched into the Raptor's digital mud to go along with custom wheels wrapped in 35-inch tires.

The company is only planning to build 100 of the Shelby Raptors per year, with pricing set at $17,995 on top of the stock donor Ford, which starts at $43,630. Scroll down for the official press release.

Continue reading Shelby Raptor is a 575-horsepower off-road goliath

Shelby Raptor is a 575-horsepower off-road goliath originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford f-1502013 ford f-150 svt raptor2013 new york auto showford f-150ford f-150 svt raptorford raptornew yorknew york auto showshelbyshelby automobilesshelby raptorsvtThu, 28 Mar 2013 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20521547/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/28/shelby-ford-f-150-svt-raptor-new-york/20521547/article-detail.xml 20521547 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/shelby-raptor-ny_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/shelby-raptor-ny.jpg <![CDATA[Watch this Ford F-150 SVT Raptor fly like an eagle [UPDATE]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/04/watch-this-ford-f-150-svt-raptor-fly-like-an-eagle/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/04/watch-this-ford-f-150-svt-raptor-fly-like-an-eagle/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/04/watch-this-ford-f-150-svt-raptor-fly-like-an-eagle/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Raptor Jump

The Ford F-150 SVT Raptor is a very capable truck right out of the box, but "capable" has never translated into "invincible." Just ask the owner of the machine in this video. In it, the driver gets frisky with an aggressive jump with plenty of speed on his hands. The result is enough air to make Vaughn Gittin Jr. blush. As always, it's not the launch that's painful, but the re-entry. Gravity eventually asserts its dominance over the $43,630 pickup in a big way, and when it comes crashing down, it does so with a vengeance.

The impact was hard enough to set off both the alarm and multiple airbags inside the cabin. It's unclear if anyone was injured in the stunt, but we certainly wouldn't be surprised to hear that was the case. You can check out the stunt in the video below, and remember, when in doubt, back out of the throttle. Be warned, there may be some explicit/NSFW language in the clip.


UPDATE: Second video added with an even better look at the jump added below.

Continue reading Watch this Ford F-150 SVT Raptor fly like an eagle [UPDATE]

Watch this Ford F-150 SVT Raptor fly like an eagle [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 04 Feb 2013 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f-150fordford f-150raptorraptor jumpraptor jump videosvtsvt raptorsvt raptor crashsvt raptor jumpvideoMon, 04 Feb 2013 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20447568/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/04/watch-this-ford-f-150-svt-raptor-fly-like-an-eagle/20447568/article-detail.xml 20447568 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/raptor-jump-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/raptor-jump-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford offering F-150 fleet customers no-cost Special Service Vehicle package]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/11/ford-offering-f-150-fleet-customers-no-cost-special-service-vehi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/11/ford-offering-f-150-fleet-customers-no-cost-special-service-vehi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/11/ford-offering-f-150-fleet-customers-no-cost-special-service-vehi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Ford F-150 SSV Package

Ford has officially released a new Special Service Vehicle Package for its F-150 pickup. Targeted at government and commercial fleets for things like police or forest ranger duty, the pack adds in a larger 220-amp alternator and a unique interior configuration at no extra cost. Inside, the trucks offer cloth seating and additional space between the front seats for a range of gear, including communications equipment and firearm storage. Agencies can also specify beefier components like heavy-duty tires and skid plates to suit their needs. The SSV Package trucks can be had with either a 3.5-liter Ecoboost V6 engine with 365 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque or a 5.0-liter V8 with 360 hp and 380 lb-ft.

Both engines are bolted to a six-speed automatic transmission, and buyers can equip either four-wheel drive or two-wheel drive SuperCab and SuperCrew models with the SSV package. Take a look at the full press release for more information.

Continue reading Ford offering F-150 fleet customers no-cost Special Service Vehicle package

Ford offering F-150 fleet customers no-cost Special Service Vehicle package originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Jun 2012 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f-150f-150 policef-150 special service vehicle packagef-seriesf150f150 policefordford f-150ford f-150 ssv packagepolicespecial service vehicle packagessvssv packageMon, 11 Jun 2012 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20255791/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/11/ford-offering-f-150-fleet-customers-no-cost-special-service-vehi/20255791/article-detail.xml 20255791 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/01-ford-f-150-ssv-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/01-ford-f-150-ssv-628.jpg <![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 -1 2