Reflections on Ford Motor Company's Founder Henry

Ford family members share their thoughts on the life and legacy of company founder Henry Ford on the 150th anniversary of his birth.

Ford F-150 to Offer Ability to Run on Compressed Natural Gas; Sales of Ford CNG-Prepped Vehicles Continue Growth

• 2014 Ford F-150 will offer a gaseous-fuel prep option on the 3.7-liter V6 engine; it will be able to run on compressed natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas
• With the addition of F-150, Ford will have eight vehicles available to run on clean-burning, inexpensive CNG/LPG. Sales continue to grow rapidly, with Ford expecting to sell more than 15,000 CNG/LPG-prepped vehicles this year
• Ford Qualified Vehicle Modifiers offer a wide variety of CNG options to help customers find the best, most cost-effective solution to their diverse operating needs

DEARBORN, Mich., July 31, 2013 – Ford, America’s truck leader, will offer the 2014 F-150 with the ability to run on compressed natural gas, making Ford the only manufacturer with an available CNG/LPG-capable half-ton pickup.

 

The 2014 Ford F-150 with 3.7-liter V6 engine will be available this fall with a factory-installed, gaseous-fuel prep package that includes hardened valves, valve seats, pistons and rings so it can operate on either natural gas or gasoline through separate fuel systems.
 

When the 3.7-liter V6 F-150 is equipped with a CNG/LPG engine package, it is capable of achieving more than 750 miles on one tank of gas, depending on the tank size selected. The Ford F-150 averages 23 mpg on the highway.
 

“Businesses and fleet customers have been asking Ford to make F-150 available with CNG capability to take advantage of the fuel’s low price and clean emissions,” said Jon Coleman, Ford fleet sustainability and technology manager. “With the money saved using CNG, customers could start to see payback on their investment in as little as 24 to 36 months.”
 

CNG/LPG engine prep from the factory costs approximately $315 before the customer chooses a Ford Qualified Vehicle Modifier to supply fuel tanks, fuel lines and unique fuel injectors. Upfits run approximately $7,500 to $9,500 depending on fuel tank capacity.
 

CNG conversions can provide stability against fluctuating fuel prices as well as lower vehicle operating costs for fleet administrators. CNG sells for an average of $2.11 per gallon of gasoline equivalent, and is as low as $1 in some parts of the country, representing a significant savings over unleaded regular fuel. The national average for unleaded regular fuel is $3.66 per gallon.
 

In the next year, Ford will offer eight commercial vehicles with a gaseous-prep option, a number no other full-line manufacturer can match:
 

• Transit Connect van and wagon
• Transit van, wagon, cutaway and chassis cab
• E-Series van, wagon, cutaway and stripped chassis
• F-Series Super Duty pickup and F-350 chassis cab
• F-Series Super Duty chassis cab (F-450, F-550)
• F-650 medium-duty truck
• F53 and F59 stripped chassis
• 2014 F-150 light-duty pickup

Customers are enthusiastically responding to this powerful array of choices. Since reintroducing the option in 2009, Ford has established itself as the leader in CNG/LPG engine sales. Ford is on pace to sell more than 15,000 CNG/LPG-prepped vehicles this year, an increase of more than 25 percent from 2012.
 

AT&T is one of many Ford customers that are finding value in CNG. The communications giant recently purchased 650 F-350 chassis cabs with the CNG-prep option.
 

“We’re almost halfway to our company-wide goal of deploying 15,000 alternative-fuel vehicles by the end of year 2018,” said Jerome Webber, AT&T vice president, global fleet operations. “Vehicles such as CNG F-350s from Ford have helped us avoid purchasing 7.7 million gallons of gasoline over the past five years while reducing our fleet’s emissions.”
 

Qualified Vehicle Modifiers

Ford has established a rigorous qualification program for alternative-fuel vehicle modifiers. The QVM program is intended to help modifiers achieve greater levels of customer satisfaction and product acceptance through the manufacture of high-quality vehicles.
 

QVMs offer a wide variety of CNG/LPG options to help customers find the best, most cost-effective solution to their diverse operating needs. Ford maintains the engine and powertrain limited warranty (five years or 60,000 miles); the modifier is responsible for the system component warranty.
 

Compressed natural gas

Compressed natural gas is mainly composed of methane. It is stored and distributed in hard containers at a pressure of approximately 3,600 psi. About 85 percent of the CNG used in the United States is produced domestically.
 

Another benefit of this alternative fuel: Cleaner emissions. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency certifies CNG usage can result in up to 30 percent less greenhouse gas emissions.

2014 Ford E-Series Highlights

The Ford E-Series – America’s best-selling van for more than 30 years – has been synonymous with work vans since the model’s introduction in 1961. Smart technology updates help E-Series operators master today’s mobile, 24/7 work environment. The robust E-Series chassis can tow up to a best-in-class 10,000 pounds when properly equipped, and payload tops out at 3,920 pounds. Three engine choices and three wheelbase options make it easy to match the new 2014 Ford E-Series to workplace demands.

 

At the same time, E-Series Wagon continues to offer transportation options for families and organizations with a lot of people to move, with seating for up to 15 passengers in extended versions.

 

E-Series highlights:

• Class-exclusive connectivity of SYNC^® system, which can integrate with smartphones and other devices using hands-free Bluetooth^® technology for safer voice-based calling
• Crew Chief^™ telematics gives fleet managers real-time operating data
• Instrument panel-mounted Navigation System with 6.5-inch touch-screen display
• Standard audio input jack, for MP3 players
• Seating for up to 15 passengers (E-350 Super Duty Extended)
• Tow rating up to 10,000 pounds (E-350 Super Duty with 6.8-liter SOHC V10 engine)
• Ford’s leading safety and security features, including:
  • AdvanceTrac^® with RSC^® (Roll Stability Control^™)
  • Driver and front passenger airbags
  • Side-intrusion door beams
  • Four-wheel Anti-Lock Braking System
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System
  • Three-point seat belts for all seating positions

Ken Taylor & Associates Commercial Truck Training

Take a look at what it's like to attend Ken Taylor's Commercial Dealer Boot Camp! Commercial Truck Success has had several opportunities to work with Ken Taylor and we highly recommend his coaching programs. See more below.

Ken Taylor

ken@coachkentaylor.com

904-280-3060

www.coachkentaylor.com

www.commercialtrucktraining.com

Single Rear Wheel Welder Service Body On Black Crew Cab Loaded Chassis

This Super nice black beauty Ford Crew Cab uplevel truck is upfitted with a  beauty of a Harbor welders body.

How many welders do you see rolling around in rigs like this? Yet that's what this ends up being, or at least functioning with the custom space for the welder machine. Notice that it has a closed top on the streetside where the welder opening is and an open top lid on the curbside. This also has tie downs in the floor and a spray on bedliner to make it so durable.

Maybe Harbor could build you one too! Call us at 800-433-9452 and visit our website at http://www.htbi.net/.

Ford Transit Custom Sport Van & ECOnetic

For full details go to http://www.vansa2z.com/Transit-Custom....

With order books open for Sport Van and ECOnetic models, as well as the recently announced high roof variants, the Transit Custom line-up is now complete

Isuzu provides traction for tyre business

Regardless of whether it’s day or night, Mitch’s Mobile Tyre Service’s fleet of Isuzu NPR 300s is always on call to help stranded customers.

Located in Gympie, Queensland, the tyre specialists come to the rescue when private or business customers are stranded or immobilised by a flat tyre.

Established in 2010, the company offers over 15 years’ collective automotive industry experience provided by its four employees, who include business owners and friends Lesley Mitchell and Ross Sims.

Business Partner, Mick Sims, said the NPR 300s have the power needed to get the job done with ease.

“These little rippers are the pick of the bunch. We have two in our fleet so far and we are currently having a third fitted out,” Mick said.

“Their power output (114 kW @ 2,600 RPM) is ideal for the large range of heavy tyre fitting equipment we carry; we’re equipped to change tyres on any vehicle, from light to heavy duty.”

The company services private, business and fleet customers who operate vehicles ranging from trucks and tractors to earthmoving equipment, forklifts and industrial vehicles.

The trucks are fully equipped and self-sufficient with on board power, air and the latest tyre fitting tools.

Designed by local bodybuilder, Tracwell, the bodies take up to four months to build, complete with tool boxes and compartments to hold all the equipment needed to fit a tyre at any location.

The working equipment includes 100 CFM rotary screw compressors, hydraulic bead breakers, heavy duty hydraulic jacking equipment, tailgate lifters and safety lighting for night work.

As part of the service, the team can fit and balance replacement tyres on the roadside so stranded customers don’t need to experience the inconvenience of having their vehicle towed away to a service centre.

With Mitch’s Mobile Tyre Service offering all the major tyre brands, Mick said the team could fix any tyre problem they come across quickly and efficiently.

According to Mick, the company is very happy with the performance and comfort of the Isuzu trucks.

“The NPR 300s drive very easily and smoothly on highways,” Mick said.

“The roomy cabs are also great for extra storage.

“We chose the NPR 300s because they are smart looking trucks with a great reputation. We definitely made the right choice.”

www.isuzu.com.au

Mercedes-Benz Van Experience 2013

For the full story go to http://www.vansa2z.com/Merc-Van-Exper....

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, this year's Mercedes-Benz Van Experience delivered the goods, once again. Visitors numbered in excess of 1,800 over the two weeks and they were given the chance to sample the entire Merc van range from behind the wheel; including wet-grip surface driving (Continental Tyres) and a demonstration of ESP in action (Bosch).

Knapheide Product Line Expands With Van Equipment For Nissan NV200

The compact commercial van market has continued to expand and mature in the United States.  The Knapheide Manufacturing Company has released a vast line-up of van equipment for the recently launched Nissan NV200.  The available van equipment, developed by Sortimo, is packed with features geared towards improving the end user’s productivity, efficiency, and safety both on and off the jobsite.

Compatible equipment includes the flexible Globelyst and cutting edge Simpleco interior organizational systems from Sortimo. To provide users with safety, Knapheide has engineered a lightweight thermoformed van partition.  The partition increases protection from shifting cargo in the event of a collision or hard stop.  Complimentary products to the organizational systems and partition include wall cladding, vocational accessories, and cargo management accessories. The innovative double floor option, which utilizes a “sub-floor” with pull out drawers underneath, creates additional storage space within the cargo area of the NV200.

The release of these products for the Nissan NV200 solidifies Knapheide’s commitment to be the leading provider of commercial vehicle solutions in North America.  To get more information on van equipment for the Nissan NV200 or any other Knapheide products, visit www.knapheide.com

Landfills Convert Biogas Into Renewable Natural Gas

Find out how thousands of U.S. landfills are converting organic waste into clean natural gas for electricity, heat, or transportation fuel. www.motorweek.org

We think this is some pretty exciting news! - CTS

Genesis by Torklift

The Torklift Genesis moves side-to-side allowing your accessories to be mounted where you need them. It also has an elbow that gives you a full range of motion so you can open your tailgate and tow without ever having to disconnect your accessory or your trailer.

We made it fit into the top receiver, that way you can still tow with the bottom receiver. The Genesis utilizes our Hero APPS (Applications). The Lock and Load is our first Hero APP that was created for the Genesis. It is a cargo tray that holds generators, tool boxes, welders and more under lock and key.

The Genesis is currently in production and will be coming out in September.

Renault Trucks - Optifleet

          

Renault Trucks on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/user/RenaultTr...

Renault Trucks on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/renaulttrucks...

Renault Trucks on Twitter:
http://twitter.com/renaulttrucksco

Renault Trucks on Google+:
https://plus.google.com/1156594922427...

http://www.renault-trucks.com/

Ram Truck Begins ProMaster Van Production

Ram this week celebrated the start of production of its new 2014 ProMaster van at the company’s Saltillo Van Assembly Plant in Coahuilla, Mexico.

The new 2014 Ram ProMaster is Ram Commercial’s latest addition to its popular vehicle lineup. ProMaster takes its place in the expanding, purpose-built, full-size van segment with a number of best-in-class features focused on the commercial customer. Coming from a strong background of commercial vehicles produced by Fiat Professional, the ProMaster is based on the Fiat Ducato, which has been in production for more than 30 years.

Ford Transit SuperVan 3 Roars Up Goodwood Hillclimb

Touring car ace and GT driver Anthony Reid drives the Ford Transit

up the hill at Festival of Speed. http://bit.ly/GoodwoodTV

 

 

BRENTWOOD, Essex, July 15, 2013 – Ford’s famous Transit SuperVan 3 turned heads on Goodwood Hill last weekend, driven by former Ford racing driver Anthony Reid.

Ford SuperVan 3 – a one-off replica 1994 Ford Transit – was developed in the UK more than 20 years ago. It has a top speed of 150mph and is powered by a supercharged 3.0-litre V6 Ford Cosworth engine, which produces 295bhp.

Anthony Reid, a former driver for Ford Team Mondeo in the BTCC, finishing in 2nd place with 193 points in 2000. He said: “Over the last 20 years of racing cars, Ford’s SuperVan 3 is by far the craziest vehicle I have ever driven. It’s ludicrously loud, incredibly quick and received masses of attention from the Goodwood crowd.”

The Supervan family raiseed the profile of Ford's famous Transit range yet further.  Supervan 3 is a much-developed version of Supervan 2, the Transit-like body hiding a mid-engined Ford C100 racing chassis.  Although it looks like a load-carrying vehicle, there is absolutely no space for a payload, as the engine and transmission are mounted behind the cabin.  The all-independent suspension and vast racing tyres are out-and-out race car specification, though the driving position is that of a van.

History
When first built as Supervan 2 in 1984, it was powered by a Ford-Cosworth DFL engine – the long-stroke endurance version of Ford's famous DFV F1 engine.  When the van was re-furbished in 1994 this original power unit was swapped for a 650bhp 3.5-litre Cosworth-developed Ford HB engine.   A few years later it was decided to fit a less powerful Ford-Cosworth Pro Sports 3000 engine, enabling more people to have the opportunity to drive this unique vehicle.


About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 172,000 employees and 65 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.co.uk

If you have any further enquiries or require publication-quality, downloadable photographs on Ford Motor Company products or services, visit our dedicated media website www.media.ford.com or contact our press office.

Roll-X tonneau and BakBox2 on 2014 Chevy SIlverado

See a demonstration of the all new Roll-X hard folding tonneau cover and the BakBox2 on the 2014 Chevy Silverado. http://bakindustries.com/c-306657-bak-tonneau-covers.html