Ford May Make Electric Cars in China: Mulally

Ford Motor Co. (F) may make electric cars with its partner in China as the auto industry moves toward producing more fuel-efficient vehicles, Chief Executive Officer Alan Mulally said.
“Our plan is to make the vehicles people want and value, in China and around the world,” Mulally, 66, said in a Bloomberg Television interview on Sept. 24 in Chongqing, China. “As we move to more electrification you’re going to see more hybrids, plug-in hybrids and all-electric.”

Mulally, who was in China to attend the groundbreaking ceremony of an engine transmission plant at its venture with Changan Automobile Group, didn’t provide a schedule for building electric cars. Rivals Daimler AG (DAI) and General Motors Co. (GM) have announced plans to add alternative-energy vehicles in China as the country, the world’s largest polluter, seeks to reduce emissions. The government aims to have 1 million electric- powered vehicles on the road by 2015, according to the Ministry of Science.

GM on Sept. 20 signed an agreement to develop electric cars in China with its partner SAIC Motor Corp. GM, which plans to introduce the plug-in hybrid Chevrolet Volt in China in the fourth quarter, will not give SAIC or the Chinese government intellectual property for the Volt as part of the agreement, GM Vice Chairman Steve Girsky said.

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Ford Transit Connect

Ford Transit Connect is a compact van panel is designed and Ford Europe design Peter Horbury, introduced in 2002 to replace older Ford Escort and Fiesta based Courier van range, which ceased production in the same year.

Ford Tourneo Connect, recreational vehicle, a Transit Connect with side windows and rear seats. All North American Transit Connect destined for the United States are imported as a car to get around 25% of the "chicken tax" on imported trucks light .

Transit Connect uses front-wheel drive Ford C170 platform of the original Ford Focus-International same platform with used Ford Focus North America 2012 model. Besides the name, it shares some components with the Transit. Connection is made by Otosan in all new plant in Gölcük near Kocaeli, Turkey, and in September 2009 in the Romanian Automobile Craiova.

Ford Transit Connect was awarded "Van of the Year 2004" Professional Van and Light Truck Magazine. In his first year in North America, Transit Connect was awarded "North American Truck of the Year 2010" at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS).

Since mid-2009, Transit Connect has been imported into the United States and Canada. It was first shown in the U.S. in 2008 and 2010 Chicago Auto Show the production model was presented at the exhibition next year on February 11, 2009. The introduction of the North American version has coincided with a mid-cycle facelift which includes a restyled front grille, deeper front bumper and a new dashboard with the image of the device and the instrument pod on the C307 Focus.

Initially, only the long-wheelbase version of the van, equipped with a 2.0L four-cylinder petrol engine and 4-speed automatic transmission was offered in North America and in other places, 1.8L diesel engine and 5 speed manual transmission was only available transmission. An electric version is to follow in about a year after launch, Azure Dynamics Corporation is converted at the facility in the U.S..

To create interest and awareness in North America, the Transit Connect as a specially equipped "mobile showrooms" were delivered to the industrial parks and other appropriate locations in 13 U.S. urban areas in May 2009 to offer a 3000 test drives for small business owners.

Starting in 2011, Ford will offer the Transit Connect XLT Premium Wagon in the U.S. and Canada, more stylish and personal version of a utilitarian wagon. It will include a room for five, the rear windows that are open for ventalation, BLIS blind spot awareness, rearview camera, large alloy wheels, body-color grille, and front fog lights. Universal Transit Connect will be the first Ford vehicle with a 2007 cease Freestar, but it is closer in size to a standard length Ford Aerostar for sale from 1986 to 1997.

Conversion to cargo van

To circumvent the 25% tariff on imported trucks light, Ford transit connect all imports as cars with rear windows, rear seats and rear seat belts. Vehicles exported from Turkey to cargo ships owned by Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics, arriving in Baltimore, and turn to commercial vehicles WWL Vehicle Services Americas LLC object: .. rear windows replaced with metal panels and the rear seats removed (except for cars) removed parts, and then reworked exploits a loophole in the process of determining the customs cargo van. As the load does not require seat belts or the rear window, the availability of these items exempt from the commercial vehicle status of the vehicle. The conversion process costs hundreds of dollars a Ford van, but it saves having to pay thousands for a chicken tax. Partly because of this, only with a long wheelbase, high roof configuration is exported to North America. In most places, high-roof Transit Connect, Ford, like most vans Econoline, can not access the multi-storey parking lot because of his height (6'-6 ").

Taxi

Transit Connect was one of three finalists (along Karsan V-1 and winner of the Nissan NV200) for a taxi in New York tomorrow. Winning model was unveiled in early May 2011 and will be awarded a 10-year contract to exclusively serve the city.

Transit Connect Electric
In 2009 Chicago Auto Show, Ford has confirmed the development of battery-powered version of the Transit Connect. Later in the Geneva Auto Show that same year, Ford showed a prototype electric version of the Ford Tourneo Connect passenger van, which is closely related to the Ford Transit Connect. Ford initially announced Smith Electric Vehicles will install electric powertrain and lithium-ion batteries in vehicles, but they later collaborated with Azure Dynamics Corporation instead, Johnson Controls-Saft as a supplier of batteries.

Production
Ford Transit Connect has an electric all-electric range of up to 80 miles (130 km). Production began in December 2010 and will reach full capacity in April 2011 to 600 to 700 units per year. Transit Connect is manufactured using electrical vehicles glider (a vehicle produced no transmission) in the Transit Connect assembly plant in Kocaeli, and then sent to the Azure Dynamics U.S. upfitter, AM General in Livonia, Mich., where the group Drive ™ electric drive and other components are added to the vehicle. Azure Dynamics has partnered with Johnson Controls-Saft to produce lithium-ion batteries used in the Ford Transit Connect Electric.

Sales and prices
The first units were delivered to several companies in the U.S. and Canada in December 2010, including AT & T, Canada Post, the New York Power Authority and Southern California Edison. Transit Connect Electric costs U.S. $ 57 400, which is more than twice the price of gas-powered version, even after the federal and any state or local incentives for electric vehicles is discounted.

The test fleet of 14 will be exported to the UK for Ultra-Low Carbon Vehicle Demonstrator program of the Government.

Ford Transit Connect X-Press
Ford Transit Connect X-press is much faster version of the Ford Transit Connect. It was created by a group of engineers using the Ford 212BHP engine from the Ford Focus, RS, as shown on Fifth Gear.

2011 Ford Transit Connect
2011 Transit Connect Wagon is a 4-door, 5-passenger full size van, available in two trims, XLT and ... read more XLT Premium.

After the introduction, both trims are equipped with a standard 2.0-liter, I4, 136-horsepower engine that achieves 21 miles per gallon city and 26 miles per gallon on the highway. 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.

2011 Transit Connect Wagon is rolling in 2010.

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2011 Ford E-Bike Concept

2011 Ford E-Bike Concept

If you are in Frankfurt are bathed in an atmosphere of all these concepts and supercars, and you happen to see a futuristic look at the bike showroom, not to be confused, because the bike is actually a part of Frankfurt as part of Ford.

Bike called E-Bike and is presented as a concept electric bike, which may well be the future of bikes, as we know it. Apparently, the bikes will be equipped with engines of its own. Go figure.

In any case, Ford E-Bike comes with aluminum and carbon frame that weighs only 2.5 kg (5.5 pounds). This frame comes with a giant 110mm SLR Carbon stem and Selle Italia SLR XC saddle. It also has Shimano Alfine 11 speed internal hub transmission, 2012 Shimano Rapidfire shift, and where the old bike chain before, E-Bike now has a drive belt system Carbon.

2011 Ford E-Bike Concept

We never thought that we associate a "bicycle" with the word "power", but incredibly, E-Bike concept is powered by a front wheel hub motor that produces 350 watts output with a maximum speed of 25 km / h (15.5 miles / h ) to electrical energy. The electric motor is connected 340Wh, 36V, 9.3Ah lithium-ion battery that offers a driving range of up to 85 km (53 miles), and the batteries can be re-charged to 85% capacity in just two hours, and 100% within three to four hours.

Ford gave no indication of whether this concept bike will be given the go signal for the production. Given all the technology present in the general setting the bike, we venture to suggest that we do not see a production version soon.

2011 Ford E-Bike Concept and iPhone

2011 Ford E-Bike Concept

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Ford Fiesta ST Concept com 180 cv

A Ford apresentou no Salão Automóvel de Frankfurt o conceito do da versão esportiva do Fiesta.

O Ford Fiesta ST Concept vem equipado com um motor EcoBoost de 1,6 litros, a gasolina, com 180 cv que o leva de 0 a 100 km/h em apenas 7 segundos chegando a velocidade máxima de 220 km/h.



Fotos AutoBlog

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Ford Mustang SVT Cobra

The Shelby Mustang SVT Cobra was a pony car built by Ford Motor Company and Shelby Special Vehicle Team It is a high performance version of the Mustang built by Ford, sitting in the model range above the Mustang GT model. On three occasions, Ford also produced a higher-performance Cobra R variant.

The 1993 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra was launched during the 1992 Chicago Auto Show. It was the premier vehicle of Ford's newly established SVT division, designed to showcase SVT's four hallmarks of Performance, Substance, Exclusivity and Value. The exterior of the 1993 SVT Cobra does not represent a radical departure from the year's GT model: However, there are subtle differences, as explained below.

The true redesign and upgrade occurred beneath the bodywork: The powertrain was driven by a 302 CID V8 (5.0L) motor, producing 235 hp (175 kW) and 280 ft·lbs (380 N·m) of torque. According to Road & Track, this could send a Cobra through the 1/4 mile in 14.5 seconds at a trap speed of 98 mph (158 km/h). Acceleration from zero to 60 mph (97 km/h) took 5.9 seconds. The drivetrain received an upgraded transmission, rear disc brakes, and for the first time on a factory Mustang, 17" unidirectional wheels. The suspension was not neglected, either: Cobra models received a softer, more compliant ride compared to the GT model. This was accomplished with model-specific springs and sway bars.

The 1993 SVT Cobra's short block (cylinder block, crankshaft, rods, and pistons) was carried over from the GT model. To this, Ford SVT engineers added the following performance items:

• Cylinder Heads: GT-40 "High Flow" Cast Iron heads were installed. They were milled for 62.5cc combustion chambers. Valves measure 1.84" (46.7mm) intake, and 1.54" (39.1mm) exhaust. The valves are actuated by Cobra-specific 1.7 ratio roller rockers, constructed of aluminum and produced for Ford by Crane Cams. Part Numbers: F3ZZ-6049-B (head), F3ZZ-6507-A (intake valve), F3ZZ-6505-A (exhaust valve), F3ZE-6529-AB (rockers).
• Intake Manifold: The Cobra upper manifold was unique to the 1993 Cobra and had a 2.75" (70.0mm) diameter round throttle body opening, diverting air into (8) round staggered ports, each 1.64" (41.7mm) diameter. The lower manifold was identical to the GT-40 manifold used by Ford Racing; it redirects airflow to a rectangular port configuration as needed by the cylinder heads. Part Numbers: F3ZZ-9424-C (upper manifold),F3ZZ-9424-D (lower).
• Camshaft: The cam is of the hydraulic roller type (same as the GT). However, the Cobra cam has unique specifications of 0.479"/0.479" (12.2mm/12.2mm) intake/exhaust lift, (209°/209°) duration at 0.050" (1.27mm), and a lobe separation of 118.3°, Part Number: F3ZE-6250-CA.

• Air/Fuel Delivery: The increased airflow and fuel consumption of the Cobra required these upgraded components: Larger (compared to the GT) 24 lb/hr fuel injectors, 2.75" (70.0mm) MAF meter, 2.56" (65.0mm) throttle body, and matching EGR plate handle the increased breathing of the motor. A specially calibrated X3Z EEC-IV engine control unit runs the system. Part Numbers: F1TZ-9F593-C (injectors), FIZF-12B579-AA (meter), F3ZF-12A650-CA (ECU).
• Accessories: The crankshaft pulley diameter decreased by 14% (as compared to the GT) in order to under-drive the alternator, A/C, and smog pump, all to increase power. The water pump pulley also decreased in diameter by the same amount in order to preserve the ratio of pump speed, and thus coolant flow. These smaller accessory pulleys necessitated a shorter serpentine belt. Part Numbers: F3ZZ-6A312-A (crank pulley), F3ZZ-8509-A (water pump pulley), F3ZZ-8620-A (belt).
• Exhaust: To extract the maximum amount of power from the Cobra's powerplant, Ford engineers used tuned mufflers with lower restriction (as compared to the GT). While the factory headers and H-pipe remained the same, the tailpipes were similar to that of a Mustang LX 5.0L (Sport) model in that they had straight stainless steel tips (instead of turn-down tips on the GT). This is because the Cobra had a revised rear fascia, allowing (unlike the GT) for an exposed dual exhaust. Part Numbers: F3ZZ-5230-A, stamped F3ZC-5230-CC (RH muffler), F3ZZ-5230-A, stamped F3ZC-5232-DC (LH muffler)

In the wake of the '93 R’s unexpected success, SVT engineers developed a more powerful R-model based on the 1995 Cobra. Top priority became addressing customer requests for a larger, more powerful engine and more fuel capacity. In response to those requests, SVT replaced the Cobra’s 5.0 L V8 with an SVT modified version of Ford’s 5.8 liter Windsor V8, re-engineered to produce 300 horsepower (220 kW) and installed a Kevlar 20 U.S. gallons (76 L) fuel tank. To handle the torque of the more powerful engine, a Tremec 3550 5 speed manual transmission was installed. See also 5-speed T-5 manual. Again, weight-savings was targeted, so there was no back seat, radio, power windows/seats or air-conditioning—not even fog lights, which were omitted to provide ducts for getting cool air onto the front disk brakes. Heavy-duty progressive-rate springs, thicker stabilizer bars and a front strut tower brace helped improve handling on the racetrack. Only 250 vehicles were built, available only in white with saddle cloth interior, each with a unique center-tiered fiberglass hood tall enough to clear the engine and induction system.

With the introduction of the "new edge" Mustang in 1999, came a new SVT Cobra. All 1999-2001 Cobras featured independent rear suspension, unique to the Cobras. They were not supercharged like the 03 and 04 were. They also used a newer returnless fuel system which helped Ford meet tightening emission standards. The new Cobra had an upgraded 4.6L DOHC engine with 320 hp (239 kW) and 317 ft·lbf (429 N·m) of torque. The 4.6 L Cobra was not produced in 2000. Ford replaced the intake manifold, exhaust and computer components to produce 320 hp (240 kW). The Cobra came back in 2001 with the same power rating, close to its GM competition, the Camaro SS and Pontiac Trans Am Ram Air WS6 package that produced 325 hp (242 kW). While the 2001 Cobra shares almost all the same components of the 1999, some changes were made including:

• The engine block was changed from the Teksid block to the Windsor Aluminum Plant or WAP block. The WAP block is regarded to be weaker than the previous Teksid block. Some 2001s received the Teksid, either from the factory or as a replacement motor
• Revised cylinder heads.
• Cobra-specific seats with a combination of leather and alcantara [suede-like microfiber] inserts - 1999 Cobras had normal Mustang seats.
• A rear bumper that reads "COBRA", instead of "MUSTANG", as the 1999 Cobra had.
• A rear badge on the trunklid was changed to say "SVT" instead of "SVT Cobra" as the 1999 Cobra had.
• The wheels for the 1999 and 2001 are 17x8. The '99 & '01 were sold with silver powdercoated aluminum wheels. The 2001 had the option of polished wheels in the same style.
• The T-45 transmission in the 1999 model was replaced by the 3650 in the 2001 model.
• The axleshafts and differential were changed from 28 splines in 1999 to 31 splines in 2001.
• The spoiler was redesigned.
• The CD player was upgraded to a 6 disc unit.
• The center console and trim were redesigned.
• The emergency brake was fitted with a 'boot' of leather to cover the hole in the console where it protrudes.
• The headlights were changed from a chrome background to a black background. The newer headlights are sometimes referred a "smoked" or "tinted" but this only refers to the black background. The actual lenses are clear and identical to that of the 1999.
• The color of the odometer digits and instrument cluster lighting was slightly changed.

In the pictures at right showing the two blocks of the SN-95 2 SVT Mustang Cobra, note the extra ribs designed to impart strength to the weaker WAP. Also, note the hatching in valley of the Teksid is square, while the WAP has diagonal hatching.

A similar Cobra model was produced in the US in 2002 for export to the Australian market.

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2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Boss 302

2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Boss 302

The Boss returns! Ford Racing have just announced the ready-to-race Mustang Boss 302 making this year definitely “The Year of the Boss” not to mention the return of Mustang Boss 302R to track at Daytona. The 2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Boss 302 is the third competition car in FoMoCo’s history to be built in the company’s production facility. Limited production 2012 Mustang Boss 302 set to become the quickest, best-handling straight-production Mustang ever offered by Ford, based on the world-class foundation provided by the 2011 Mustang GT. Boss upgraded in nearly every vehicle system; engine output, brakes, suspension, interior and exterior all examined to optimize weight, aerodynamics and track performance.

2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Boss 302

Full Mustang team effort results in a comprehensive re-engineering available only through the factory; new Boss is not a package that can be purchased out of a catalog or achieved through tuning or aftermarket parts. Limited-production track-oriented Boss 302 Laguna Seca model expands on Boss racing aspirations, deleting rear seat and adding race-ready suspension and aerodynamic treatments Ford gave the green light only once before: In 1968, management approved a special Mustang – a car that sacrificed nothing in its quest to be the best all-around road-going performance machine ever created by Ford Motor Company.

2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Boss 302 become one of the modern American icons in 1970, after winning the Trans-Am championship in the same year. During the last decades Ford brought a lot of high performance models and versions of the great Mustang, including the Cobra, Bullitt and Mach 1. Once a cheap and affordable sports car become a flagship of the Ford Motor Corporation and take the big piece of the upscale sports car market in USA. One of the original factory tuned, high performance Mustang is Boss 302. First time produced in 1969, Ford Mustang Boss 302 was the real example of what sports cars need to look, sound, act and preform.

2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Boss 302

This American automotive companies have many models, be it an ordinary car or sports car, one of which is the 2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Boss 302, Ford Mustang is a Ford model who has a high performance that has been manufactured since 1969 and early 1970. Even in the 1970 Ford Mustang won many championships various automotive with drivers Parnelli Jones is a legendary racer.

New 2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Boss 302 is a modern sports car with a capacity of 5.0 liter V8 engine capable of producing power 444 hp, 32 hp higher than usual Ford Mustang GT. The 2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Boss 302 also has a maximum torque of 380 lb-ft and a more aggressive camshaft. Ford Mustang Boss 302 2012 is perfect for those who prefer the racing world because besides having great power and rapid acceleration, the 2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Boss 302 also has a clutch upgrade, adjustable suspension, braking system is good.

2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Boss 302

Upon introduction, the V6 Coupe is equipped with a standard 3.7-liter, V6, 305-horsepower engine that achieves 19-mpg in the city and 29-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. The 2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Boss 302 is equipped with a standard 5.0-liter, V8, 444-horsepower engine that achieves 17-mpg in the city and 26-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard. “The new 2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Boss 302 completely redefines Mustang capability,” said Mark Fields, Ford president of The Americas. “That the Mustang team was able to take the current Mustang GT – already a world-class performance car – and refine it further for peak track performance shows the commitment Ford has to this car and its legions of fans.”

2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Boss 302 has a body not much different as the previous series, is still using classic design typical of the Ford Mustang, but the emphasis is on improved engine performance and technology found in the 2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Boss 302 better than the usual model of  the Ford Mustang GT. It is almost impossible to understand this car without feeling the engine vibrations, without hearing the sound and steering the wheel. Even as a passenger the joy of riding in this new 2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Boss 302 is one of the best experiences in the life.

Production is scheduled the second quarter of 2011 and orders are now being taken at Ford dealers that participate in the Ford Racing Performance Parts program by ordering part number FR500-B302S (performance white paint) or M-FR500-B302SO (orange paint). MSRP for the BOSS 302S is $79,000.00.

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2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Shelby GT500 Super Snake

2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Shelby GT500 Super Snake

The Ford will release a new sports car, this time the event will be presented at New York International Auto Show 2011 in this month end. Ford Motor Company and Shelby have a long history of working together to develop high-powered, high performing automobiles. The original partnership between Ford and Shelby American founder Carroll Shelby ended in 1969. Ford and Shelby entered into a new agreement in 2003 that has produced a new line of high-performance Shelby Mustangs. Some of the cars are built by Ford Motor Co. and others built at the Shelby American factory in Las Vegas.

2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Shelby GT500 Super Snake

The latest sports car from Ford is the 2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Shelby GT500 Super Snake who has great power. The 2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Shelby GT500 Super Snake is a very handsome car and stern making it very suitable for the American public.

2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Shelby GT500 Super Snake

“Shelby American has a rich history at the New York International Auto Show,” said John Luft, president of Shelby American. “The very first Shelby car was introduced there in 1962, as well as the 1968 and 2008 Shelby GT500KR and the 2006 Shelby Hertz GT-H. This year, we’re returning with one of the most powerful and important Shelbys ever built.”

2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Shelby GT500 Super Snake

In the year 2003, Ford Company has signed an agreement with the Las Vegas Car Company named Shelby American Inc. Based on this agreement, the 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 Super Snake model is built by the Shelby American Inc company. Opting for the Shelby GT500 Super Snake package includes an extensive list of changes to the standard GT500, ranging from cosmetic to truly performance minded parts. Power starts at a measly 750 horsepower and can be upgraded to 800 horsepower, same as the 2011 model, with a Kenne Bell supercharger tune upgrade.

2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Shelby GT500 Super Snake

In the interim, at least with a 2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Shelby GT500 Super Snake 800 horsepower Mustang to rocket around in, those who can afford it can have a lot of fun while challenges to the economy and finances of the United States are resolved. Driving around in a 2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Shelby GT500 Super Snake should be an exhilarating enough experience to ward off, at least while burning up the road, any problems such as paying $8.00 - $10 a gallon for gasoline.

The 2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Shelby GT500 Super Snake is promised by the manufacturer to be street legal in all 50 states. Thus far Ford and Shelby have not indicated how many of the over the top Mustangs will be manufactured. In car crazy America I expect that there is a fairly robust market for a car that can generate up to 800 hp and that sells for less than $100,000.

The 2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Shelby GT500 Super Snake has the power to 800 hp that the Shelby GT500 Super Snake is the most powerful race cars on the road and track. So for those of you who like racing and sports cars, the 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 Super Snake is the right choice because of 2012 Shelby GT500 Super Snake have an aggressive and powerful machine that can bring you great reach maximum speed on the highway.

The 2012 Ford Sport Cars Mustang Shelby GT500 Super Snake includes:

— Ford Racing handling pack including dynamic adjustable dampers, lowering springs, tuned stabilizer bars and front strut tower brace

— Optional Shelby/Eibach handling pack

— Six-speed manual transmission with a 3.73:1 rear-axle ratio and short-throw shifter

— Borla exhaust system

— Shelby-designed Alcoa 20-inch wheels

— Forged Shelby/Baer brakes with six-piston calipers and cross-drilled, vented rotors

— Front-brake cooling ducts and behind-the-door side scoops

— Unique fiberglass hood with the signature Shelby design and hood pins

— Shelby classic Super Snake stripes in either matte black or matte white

— Super Snake vehicle badges and an embroidered interior.

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First TV Spot by Jeep Grand Cherokee

get launches of the year for the Chrysler Group and the first to come during the newly-formed alliance with Fiat SpA, this Detroit automaker is working very hard to spread the word about the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee 2010

The first TV spot for Jeep's flagship entitled "The things we make, make us" and according to the Detroit firm, it's supposed to represent the return of American craftsmanship and quality that goes into each new vehicle of the brand.

"The new Grand Cherokee marketing and advertising campaign has been carefully designed to communicate the Jeep brand's commitment to American craftsmanship, the return of personal pride and dedication to producing a vehicle that is truly well-made and beautifully designed," said Mike Manley, President and CEO of the Jeep Brand.these is more pictures from the spot

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2011 Ford Start Concept Cars MEGA CITY

For parts of the world that are growing increasingly urban, the future of the automobile looks small, green, smart and fun in the eyes of Ford designers who created the Ford Start Concept. It's a design vision inspired for the transportation needs of the world's mega cities.

2011 Ford Start Concept

Making its global debut at the 2010 Beijing Auto Show, the Ford Start Concept is more than simply a design exploration into the feasibility of a small car. It also demonstrates how Ford will extend the promise of its EcoBoost engine technology story even further – previewing a fuel-efficient petrol Ford EcoBoost engine with just three cylinders and 1.0 litre of displacement, yet the power of a larger, 1.6-litre I4 engine.

Start Concept was inspired in part by a growing global trend toward mass urbanisation. The world's top 20 mega-cities are home to consumers whose needs, attitudes and expectations may have more in common with mega-city dwellers in other nations than with their own countrymen. While these consumers share the challenges of living in an urban society, they also increasingly seek out product solutions that bring the best the world has to offer.

When it comes to designing eco-friendly urban transportation, automakers have tried just about everything. They've drawn up bubble cars, autonomic pods, even semi-robotic unicycles. Ford however, has decided against cribbing from the pages of a sci-fi novel and opted for something far more conventional: a three-door hatchback. Specifically, the Start concept the automaker unveiled at the 2010 Beijing Auto Show.

“Our ambition was to design a car that transcends the practical realities of commuting in these mega cities, and goes beyond just dressing the technology,” said Freeman Thomas, design director. “We wanted to design a car you would also love.”

There’s little not to love about the Start, Ford’s first concept in three years, and the first developed under the global auspices of the “One Ford” mantra. Although the Start shows traces of Ford’s “kinetic” design language, its rounded form is much more elegant. Angular edges are limited to both the shoulder lines and the slender, LED-powered headlamp and taillights. Thomas says the Start features “refined surface language” usually found on premium vehicles, and we’d agree -- from some angles, the Start almost resembles Audi’s new A1.

Function doesn’t necessarily follow form, however, as stylists made an effort to improve the car’s aerodynamics. Many surfaces, including the windshield, side window glass, and center stop lamp, are flush with the body, while an underbody aero pan further reduces the Start’s drag. The interior is as equally stylish and functional -- the floating dual-cockpit dashboard lends a sporty look, but a conceptual infotainment system, billed as “MyFord Mobile,” incorporates a multi-function touch screen to simplify the center stack.

While the Start’s form allowed Thomas’ team to flex their creative muscle, the mechanicals beneath the car are firmly rooted in reality. Ford’s teased the idea of an EcoBoost three-cylinder, but this is our first look at such an engine. The turbocharged, 1.0-liter I-3 utilizes a cast-iron block, but a cylinder head and sump fabricated from cast aluminum. Ford won’t talk power figures, saying only that early tests suggest it can produce power on par with its 1.6-liter I-4, which is rated at 120 horsepower in North America. Power is routed to the front wheels via an ordinary five-speed manual transaxle.

Created by a global team of designers working at Ford's Irvine (Calif.) Strategic Concepts Group Studios, this sporty, futuristic concept combines near-production Ford EcoBoost engine technology and slick aerodynamics in an environmentally friendly package with reduced greenhouse emissions, all wrapped in an exciting design.

Ford says the EcoBoost three-cylinder would allow the Start to emit well under 100 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometer. That’s not a crucial figure here in North America, but it is in Europe, where Ford sells the similar-sized Ka. We doubt the Start is destined for production anytime soon, but look for the turbo-three to land in some small European Fords in the near future.

“The Ford Start Concept is the first pure concept we’ve developed under our ‘One Ford’ approach,” says Moray Callum, executive director, Americas Design. “J Mays, Martin Smith and I worked with Freeman and his team to deliver a concept that visually reinforces the fun to drive element that is at the core of the Ford brand DNA.”

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