суббота, 15 сентября 2012 г.

Ford inks deal for 'No Boundaries' pilot with Fox TV.(Brief Article) - Automotive News

Ford Motor Co.'s ``No boundaries'' ad theme is migrating to network TV programming, as the company has inked a deal for a pilot with Fox Broadcasting in June.

The one-hour ``No Boundaries'' show takes off on the tag Ford introduced last fall for its lineup of sport-utilities. Each of four documentary-style episodes will focus on a specific outdoor activity, said Ed Molchany, brand manager of Ford's Explorer Sport Trac.

That all-new hybrid vehicle combines a pickup bed with a sport-utility compartment and four doors.

The Sport Trac, with TV spots due May 15 on network TV, will also get a big ad push during the show, he said. ``The idea is to connect with our target,'' he said.

3 MINUTES

Ford gets three minutes of advertising during the program, which will also have other advertisers. Ford spent an estimated $7 million on the production and advertising for the pilot.

Ford's agency, J. Walter Thompson USA in Detroit, developed the strategy and coordinated the effort, said Joe DiMeglio, management supervisor on the brand's sport-utility line. ``This is not a gratuitous product placement,'' he said of the pilot. ``This is very much a quality show.''

One episode will highlight an eight-day ski trip in the backwoods. Another follows a mountain biking trek. Each episode tells stories about the outfitters who guide the tours.

``This is not just adrenalin-thumping action,'' DiMeglio said. ``We're trying to make it more a slice of life and it's designed to be educational.''

JWT is developing what DiMeglio dubbed a ``documercial'' showing the features of the Sport Trac to air during the show. The length hasn't been determined, but it will be part of Ford's three minutes of ad time. Ford also will run newspaper ads in USA Today, created by JWT, to promote the show.

Each ``No Boundaries'' program has four segments. One 10 to 12 minute segment will focus on the ``Ford Explorer Sport Trac Challenge.'' Ford is sponsoring preliminary rounds for the rock climbing, kayaking, mountain biking and back-country skiing-snowboarding finals later this year in Oregon.

50,000 ORDERS

Footage of the preliminary rounds won't necessarily show Ford's sport-utilities. Members of the Ford-sponsored team will appear in the documercial.

JWT hired 3 Corners of Santa Monica, Calif., as the production company. Chris Czmyrd, a former marketing director at Outside magazine, is the executive producer. The director and cameraman is free-lancer Bill Schneider, who is best known for his mountain biking film work.

Ford already has more than 50,000 orders for Sport Trac with its starting price of $23,050, Molchany said. The target buyers are outdoor enthusiasts in their mid-30s.

Ford's upcoming Sport Trac TV commercial will position the truck as ``critical gear for outdoor adventure,'' Molchany said. He declined to discuss ad spending, but said it's rather high considering the number of expected unit sales - as many as 100,000.

The hybrid vehicle is expected to get an estimated $30 million blitz. Molchany doesn't expect Sport Trac to cannibalize sales of the Explorer, which has older buyers in their early to mid-40s. The Sport Trac, on sale since February, is built on the same chassis as Explorer.

Ford slims down trim options for 2007.(plans in vehicle packaging) - Automotive News

Byline: Amy Wilson

The Ford brand plans to simplify the way it packages vehicles, starting with some new and updated 2007 models.

Changes include:

* Reducing the number of trim lines.

* Putting more standard equipment in base models.

* Allowing more features, such as leather seats, to be ordered as stand-alone options rather than as part of a pricey equipment package.

The approach aims to reduce manufacturing and ordering complexity. It also is expected to speed the turnover of inventory, Ford officials say.

The simplified packaging debuted with the 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, which went on sale in late February. Details about packaging and pricing of some other 2007 models are expected to be shared with dealers as early as this week.

It's likely Ford will use the approach for the new 2007 Ford Edge crossover and re-engineered 2007 Expedition.

'The ordering gets a lot easier,'' says Barry Redler, SUV group marketing manager for the Ford brand. 'It's a lot easier on the dealers for sure, and it's more simple for the customer to buy one. It's easier to stock, it's easier to sell, and it's easier to buy.''

Ford nameplates, especially trucks, typically have had several trim lines. For example, the previous-generation Sport Trac had four. But only two are offered on the 2007 Sport Trac: an XLT and a Limited.

Ford kept the Sport Trac base price steady at $24,940, including shipping. But for the same price, it added content, including cruise control, power mirrors, side airbags and stability control.

Crowded showroom

The approach also should help Ford and dealers better differentiate individual nameplates in a showroom that will be swimming with SUVs and crossovers, Redler says. Come this fall, the Ford showroom is expected to have the Escape, Edge, Freestyle, Explorer, Explorer Sport Trac, Expedition and extended Expedition EL all competing in that territory.

An array of trim lines and option packages made more sense when single nameplates sold 300,000 or 400,000 units annually, Redler says. But the proliferation of nameplates and more competition in the industry has reduced nameplate volumes.

Stalwart entries such as the Explorer have gone from selling as many as 507,091 in 1999 to 239,788 in 2005. New models such as the Edge are expected to sell half that.

'Do you need the same number of series for a vehicle line at 300,000 (units) as you do at 100,000?'' Redler says. 'The market becomes made up of niches that are smaller in volume. You don't need all those series to cover the market.''

Better for dealers

Wade Walker, president of Walker Ford in Montpelier, Vt., says simplified packaging should make it easier to stock the most popular models, control inventory and reduce floorplanning costs.

'They'd make it easier on the consumer to understand packages,'' Walker says. 'It won't make every consumer happy, but it will make it easier for dealers to trade within their market area.''

Some consumers may think they have less flexibility to order the exact model they want. But in reality, Walker says, most consumers buy the factory-designed packages anyway.

* * *

From 4 to 2

2005 Sport Trac

Trim line: Base price*

XLS: $24,940

XLT: $26,195

XLT Premium: $28,630

Adrenalin: $29,430

2007 Sport Trac

XLT: $24,940

Limited: $26,540

*Includes shipping

Note: Ford did not build a 2006 Sport Trac.

Source: Ford Motor Co.

CAPTION(S):

Chevy, Ford muscle into N.Y. show. - Chicago Tribune (Chicago, IL)

Byline: Jim Mateja

Mar. 20--Chevrolet and Ford this week will unveil additions to their performance lineups: Chevy a trio of SS models, and Ford a high-performance sport-utility and the next-generation Mustang Cobra.

The cars will be introduced at the media preview of the New York Auto Show, the last major venue on this year's auto-show circuit.

The SS, or Super Sport, additions at Chevy will be the Malibu and Malibu Maxx sedans and TrailBlazer sport-utility. All come out this fall.

Ford is introducing a high-performance Adrenalin Sport Trac SUV slated for 2007, as well as the next-generation SVT Mustang Cobra, which is expected to have lots of influence from racecar designer Carroll Shelby.

The three SS models give Chevy a total of eight carrying that designation, including the SSR roadster truck, Silverado SS pickup, Impala SS sedan, Monte Carlo SS coupe and Cobalt SS supercharged coupe.

The SS designation dates to 1961, when Chevy brought out the Impala Super Sport.

'Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS bring real performance to a broad audience,' said Brent Dewar, vice president of marketing for General Motors and former Chevy general manager.

As with Ford, Chevy said that though the performance models will not be mileage leaders, they will be limited editions that should have little effect on its Corporate Average Fuel Economy, or CAF[ETH], ratings.

Malibu and Malibu Maxx feature a new 3.9-liter V-6 with variable valve timing that develops 240 horsepower and delivers 245 foot-pounds of torque. It is teamed with a 4-speed automatic with manual shift mode.

They also come with sports-tuned suspensions, a choice of 18-inch all-season or high-performance 'summer' grade radials and anti-lock brakes with traction control as standard. They add model-specific front and rear fascias, with blacked-out cross-hatch grille pattern, larger grille openings, projector beam fog lamps, rear spoiler and dual chrome-tipped exhaust outlets.

Options will include sunroof, six-disc CD changer, OnStar and XM satellite radio.

The 2006 TrailBlazer SS that goes on sale this fall will be the first SUV to wear the badge.

It will be powered by the Corvette-derived 6-liter, 391-h.p. V-8 delivering 395 foot-pounds of torque and boasting a zero- to 60-m.p.h. time of 5.7 seconds. It will be teamed with a 4-speed automatic.

The TrailBlazer SS will offer performance-tuned suspension with 1-inch lower ride height, 20-inch performance radials, rear-wheel- or all-wheel-drive, stability control, ABS and air-leveling suspension.

It will come with a monochromatic exterior, including blacked-out mesh grille, model-specific front and rear fascias and bright exhaust outlet.

Ford is spare with details of the Mustang Cobra until later in the week, but the machine is expected to be heavily influenced by Shelby. He had a hand in developing the Ford GT super car in 2004 as well as the Shelby GR-1, a super car concept unveiled last year that hints what Ford might offer to follow up on the GT.

The Adrenalin sport-utility truck at the show is an upgrade of the Explorer Sport Trac that came out for 2000. It was developed by Ford's Special Vehicle Team, or SVT.

'We're looking to take Ford performance to an entirely new market segment with the Adrenalin,' said Steve Lyons, president of Ford Division.

He said the midsize Adrenalin 'marries the attributes' of the full-size SVT F-150 Lightning pickup with the Explorer Sport Trac, and 'answers enthusiast demands for performance and multifunctional utility.'

Adrenalin will be powered by a supercharged, 4.6-liter, 32-valve V-8 that develops 390 h.p. and delivers 390 foot-pounds of torque. It will be teamed with a 6-speed automatic, a first for an SVT vehicle.

Lyons said the Adrenalin will have the acceleration and agility of the SVT F-150 Lightning, which Ford first offered between 1993 and 1995 with a 5.8-liter, 240-h.p. V-8 and then again between 1999 and 2004 with a 5.4-liter, 380-h.p., supercharged V-8. Output totaled 39,687.

In addition to the potent V-8, Adrenalin offers all-wheel-drive; AdvanceTrac stability control with Roll Stability Control; 21-inch radials; four bucket seats; white faced instrumentation; a navigation system, another first for an SVT vehicle; unique front and rear fascias; a 'black chrome' grille; and SVT signature fog lamps.

To give the SUV better road stance, Adrenalin is 5 inches longer and 2 inches wider than the current Sport Trac. The 4-foot composite bed box is wider and taller and comes with a pair of lockable 'saddlebag' compartments between the cab and rear wheel wells to hold more cargo.

To see more of the Chicago Tribune, or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.chicagotribune.com.

Copyright (c) 2005, Chicago Tribune

Distributed by Knight Ridder/Tribune Business News.

For information on republishing this content, contact us at (800) 661-2511 (U.S.), (213) 237-4914 (worldwide), fax (213) 237-6515, or e-mail reprints@krtinfo.com.

Amid product changes, Ford to keep on truckin'.(Brief article) - Automotive News

Byline: Amy Wilson

Mark Fields isn't ignoring trucks.

One of the most important product changes in the Way Forward plan is aimed squarely at protecting Ford Motor Co.'s truck position, its greatest profit generator and most important asset.

Fields revived Ford's 6.2-liter V-8 Hurricane engine program. The Hemi fighter, put on ice by predecessors, is designed to maintain Ford's lead in big pickups in the face of a competitive onslaught. General Motors and the Chrysler group already sell V-8s with more horsepower, making engines a potential weak spot for the Ford F series, the top-selling U.S. pickup.

Analysts call it a good move but say the indecision has cost Ford time. The Hurricane engine isn't likely to debut until 2008 at the earliest, sources said.

In a recent interview, Fields said trucks are cornerstone products. The Ford division will do what's necessary to maintain leadership in pickup sales, he said.

Fields has been surprisingly active in mixing up the product plan, given prior comments by CEO Bill Ford. Just after appointing Fields as Ford Motor's president of the Americas last fall, Bill Ford called the product cycle 'very solid'' and said not to expect much change.

In April, Bill Ford acknowledged the product shake-up - 'but it was for the right reason,'' he said. Disruption often generated by such changes has been minimized by acceptance and lack of infighting among Ford Motor's product development group, he said.

Other Way Forward product changes include:

* The demise of the planned Adrenalin version of the Ford Explorer Sport Trac. The Adrenalin, engineered by the Special Vehicle Team, had been scheduled to go on sale in 2007.

Beauty of the Beast Ford's Special Vehicle Team, legendary designer join to create Shelby Cobra GT500 - The Herald News - Joliet (IL)

The Ford Shelby Cobra GT500 (foreground) is designed to be a worthy successor to the trend-setting Shelby Cobra of earlier years.

The Ford Special Vehicle Team (SVT) and Carroll Shelby have joined forces to create a high-performance Mustang that fittingly carries the Cobra GT500 name with great power, impressive handling and classic Shelby design cues.The Ford Shelby Cobra GT500 will continue SVT's legacy of high- performance Mustangs with a production version slated to go on sale in 2006. Preliminary ratings put the engine at more than 450 horsepower.

'With the new GT500, SVT engineers are developing a high-performance Mustang that has not only won the blessing of Carroll Shelby himself, but one that lives up to the best of what the GT500 badge represents to enthusiasts,' says Tom Jones, SVT chief program engineer.

'The GT500 delivers on all the key ingredients expected of an SVT Mustang: big power, great handling, awesome brakes, and of course, a distinct look.'

The GT500 features the most powerful engine ever fit into a factory Mustang, delivering more than 450 horsepower and 450 foot- pounds of torque. The GT500 will be followed by other SVT-engineered performance products, possibly including a version of the production-intent Sport Trac Adrenalin, the industry's first performance sport-utility truck.

Energized by the launch of the Ford GT supercar in 2004, Ford's in- house performance brand also takes the reins of developing non- SVT branded blue-oval models, including other performance Mustangs inspired by the Bullitt GT and Mach 1.

'SVT is transforming itself with great new products and the responsibility to apply its expertise to other parts of our performance world,' says Phil Martens, Ford group vice president for product creation.

'The Ford GT and GT500 are the foundation for the momentum SVT will inject across more and more vehicles.'

Classic big-block displacement and modern SVT engineering create a most potent factory Mustang.

When the Shelby GT350 was introduced, it was instantly respected as a performance car. Yet, it wasn't until Ford's famed 428-cubic-inch big-block found its way into the GT500 that Mustang's reputation as a true muscle car was firmly established.

To be true to that legacy, the Shelby Cobra GT500 had to possess firepower competitive with the world's best performance cars. Following the theory that 'there's no replacement for displacement,' SVT engineers fit the new GT500 with a version of Ford's 5.4-liter 'MOD' V-8 engine. This is only the second time a factory Mustang has used the 5.4- liter engine, following the 2000 SVT Mustang Cobra R.

In addition to muscle-car cubic inches, SVT engineers employed modern performance technologies developed for the supercharged SVT Mustang Cobra and the Ford GT. As a result, the GT500 features a cast-iron block topped with the Ford GT's four-valve aluminum cylinder heads. These high-flow heads are paired with a screw-type supercharger and a water-to-air intercooler, for a broad torque curve all the way up to redline.

Higher-flowing heads help the engine 'breathe' better for increased power and fuel efficiency, while the addition of the intercooler allows the supercharger to deliver a denser fuel-air mixture to the cylinders, resulting in a more powerful charge for each firing cycle. Also sourced from the Ford GT are the piston rings and rod bearings, ensuring a high level of performance and durability.

However, the ultimate factory Mustang isn't limited to just a power upgrade. Shelby and Ford SVT are known for delivering balanced, all- around performance -- and the Shelby Cobra GT500 is no exception.

The development of the GT500 chassis started during the 2005 Mustang program, when the basic geometry and chassis structure were tested and validated on a number or race tracks. The result is solid chassis that has won acclaim from media and customers alike. Mustang features a revised MacPherson strut independent front suspension with lightweight Reverse L lower control arms, and a solid-axle, three-link rear suspension with coil springs and a Panhard rod.

The Reverse L configuration improves lateral motion control and steering response via a firm bushing located where the shorter leg connects to the chassis. At the same time, a softer bushing on the longer leg better dampens road shocks. The revised three-link setup with coils helps maintain constant toe-in and camber relative to the road surface, while the Panhard rod controls side-to-side axle movement in relation to the chassis for improved tracking.

Prior to his current assignment as director of advanced product creation and SVT, Hau Thai-Tang served as the chief engineer for the 2005 Mustang.

'During development of the new Mustang, plenty of time was spent at the track ensuring the platform met our requirements, and was capable of handling future performance derivatives,' says Thai- Tang. 'Media and customer reactions have been extremely positive in terms of chassis dynamics.'

The base architecture was further validated by the race-prepared Ford Racing Mustang FR500C, built ground-up from the base Mustang body structure and suspension geometry to run in the Grand- Am Cup series. Out of the box, an FR500C competed in and won its first ever race in the season-opener at Daytona International Speedway in February 2005.

'In terms of performance, the solid-rear-axle setup in the Shelby Cobra GT500 has been proven in race competition this year with a Ford Racing Mustang FR500C taking the checkered flag at Daytona,' Thai-Tang said. 'First race, first win; not bad against the best from Germany and Japan.'

To create the GT500, SVT engineers are using real-world experience gained during more than 12 years of building Mustang Cobras to deliver the power brand's signature chassis tuning for a balanced, performance-tuned ride that still maintains the compliancy required for everyday driving. This includes SVT engineers recalibrating the shock valves and spring rates for increased wheel control and road feedback. A new shock tower brace and structural K-member will deliver even crisper steering response. Finally, a larger rear stabilizer bar will reduce body lean.

To put a stop on all of this power and handling ability, SVT has employed some of the biggest brakes in the business. The GT500 features 14-inch cross-drilled Brembo brake rotors up front, clamped by four-piston aluminum calipers. The rear features 13-inch discs with two- piston calipers. Unique 19-by-9.5- inch aluminum split-five-spoke wheels are wrapped in 255/45ZR- 19 high-performance rubber to help secure the GT500 to the road.

SVT has remained a viable specialty performance group within Ford for more than decade because it has a unique connection with its customers.

'SVT communicates with its customers on a personal level rather than using national advertising campaigns,' says George Ayres, SVT sales and marketing manager. 'We think this approach gives us a unique advantage in understanding our customers' needs to help keep improving SVT products and business.'

Ford boosts SVT budget; Automaker sets a 5-model limit.(Ford Motor Co., special vehicle team) - Automotive News

Byline: Amy Wilson

Ford Motor Co.'s performance group is bigger and better-funded than ever, says Ford product chief Phil Martens.

Despite a two-year drought that won't see an SVT-branded vehicle on the market until mid-2006, Ford has expanded its Special Vehicle Team to at least 200 people, Martens says. It previously employed around 120 people.

Today's SVT budget also is higher than it has been in the past, he says. Martens wouldn't disclose the investment in SVT or the percentage increase to the budget.

Ford has benchmarked competitors such as BMW's M-series performance group while rebuilding SVT.

'To a certain degree, we have to earn'' that kind of a reputation, says Martens, Ford group vice president of product creation. 'We can't come out of the block and say we're an M-division team.''

Ford last sold SVT-branded products during the 2004 model year. The drought came as Ford redesigned two key SVT nameplates, the Mustang and F-150 pickup.

Ford also discontinued its SVT Focus last year, saying it wasn't upscale enough. Martens more recently has said Ford will take another look at an SVT Focus.

Longtime SVT leader John Coletti retired in December and was replaced by Hau Thai-Tang, chief engineer of the 2005 Mustang.

Martens says Ford eventually will have up to five SVT-branded vehicles at any one time. The first, the 2007 Shelby Cobra GT500, will go on sale next summer. That 450-plus-hp coupe is the first special edition of the redesigned Mustang. Ford will follow with the Ford Sport Trac Adrenalin in 2007.

Ford displayed the GT500 and the 390-hp Adrenalin at the New York auto show last week.

Prices for SVT products will range from less than $20,000 to more than $40,000, Martens says. The GT500 will cost about $40,000.

In addition to natural candidates such as the redesigned Mustang, Ford intends to spread a performance element across the broader Ford brand, Martens says. SVT-badged products will be restricted to Ford Division, but SVT engineers are likely to help develop vehicles for other corporate brands.

Martens won't say what other nameplates are on the SVT list, but likely candidates are the Fusion sedan, debuting this fall, and the Focus. SVT was developing an F-150 Lightning until that project was put on hold last year.

Martens wouldn't say how soon SVT will reach the five-vehicle limit.

'If you get beyond that, it really gets too expensive,'' he says. 'It's difficult to fund and manage the cycle.''

CAPTION(S):

пятница, 14 сентября 2012 г.

Scion, Nissan target youth; Entry-level concepts could soon compete.(News)(Nissan Motor Company Ltd.)(Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. Inc. Scion Div.) - Automotive News

While this week's New York auto show will host the world debuts of significant Mercedes-Benz and Jeep vehicles, two entry-level Japanese concepts will likely capture most of the attention.

Toyota's youth-oriented line, Scion, will unveil a concept that depicts design possibilities for the brand.

Nissan will introduce a sleek, tuner-inspired concept aimed at the same buyers. Nissan has said it may add two vehicles below the entry-level Sentra within 18 months.

Other show highlights include Mercedes-Benz's R-class wagon; the tall, seven-passenger Jeep Commander; a GMC-based Isuzu pickup; and a Suzuki concept that shows the styling direction for the next Grand Vitara.

Here are the world debuts scheduled Wednesday, March 23, and Thursday, March 24, at the New York show.

Cadillac

Cadillac adds another performance variant with the 2006 XLR-V. The vehicle is expected to pack a supercharged 400-plus hp V-8.

Chevrolet

Chevrolet will extend its high-performance SS stable with the addition of the 2006 Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS sedans as well as the 2006 TrailBlazer SS. (See story, Page 31).

Dodge

Dodge expands its SRT performance line with a Hemi-powered derivative of an undisclosed 2006 model.

Ford

Ford's headliner in New York is a high-performance version of the Mustang. Engineered by Ford's Special Vehicle Team, the next-generation Mustang Cobra is expected to go on sale in 2006. In a nod to high-performance Mustangs of the 1960s, the 2007 model will carry the Shelby name.

Ford also will display the Sport Trac Adrenalin concept in New York. Powered by a 390-hp, supercharged 4.6-liter V-8, it teases at a performance version that could be coming for Ford's next-generation Sport Trac.

Ford has confirmed that the redesigned Sport Trac - slated to go on sale in 2006 after moving to an updated Ford Explorer platform - will get a V-8 engine.

Jeep

Jeep will unveil the 2006 Commander, a seven-passenger SUV that is based on the Grand Cherokee platform. The vehicle is several inches taller than the Grand Cherokee. The Commander's boxy styling draws on cues last seen on the Cherokee, which was discontinued in 2001. Sales begin this fall.

Jeep also will introduce a second vehicle, a Hemi-powered derivative of a current model.

Isuzu

With a model line limited to the Ascender SUV, Isuzu's struggling dealers have been praying for a second vehicle. Their prayers get answered with the world debut of a compact pickup that is scheduled to go on sale in June or July.

The unnamed 2006 Isuzu pickup is based on the GMC Canyon and will be built in the United States. Two models are planned: a two-wheel- drive, extended-cab pickup with a 2.8-liter four-cylinder engine and a crew cab with four-wheel drive and a 3.5-liter five-cylinder engine.

Mercedes-Benz

After showing several concepts, Mercedes-Benz finally will unveil the production version of the R-class wagon. U.S. buyers will get the long-wheelbase model; a shorter version will be sold in Europe.

Two V-8s will be offered here: a 268-hp, 3.5-liter V-8 and a 302-hp, 5.0-liter V-8.

The 2006 R class will be assembled in Vance, Ala. Sales begin this fall.

Mitsubishi

Mitsubishi will unveil the freshened 2006 Lancer Evolution, an awd performance sedan.

Nissan

Nissan reveals another clue as to how it will respond to Toyota's Scion line.

The Nissan Sport Concept, a three-door hatchback concept, may be the first car in a series of small, stylish, affordable vehicles aimed at the youth market.

Nissan says the intent with the Sport Concept is to create an attainable vehicle for young buyers.

Scion

Toyota's Scion youth brand will unveil a concept vehicle called t2B.

Toyota will not divulge any information about the vehicle. But the automaker rarely shows a concept vehicle without some production possibilities in mind.

Suzuki

Suzuki's X2 concept debuting in New York is expected to resemble the redesigned 2006 Grand Vitara that goes on sale this fall. The next-generation Grand Vitara will be slightly larger than the current model, and it will be powered by a 2.7-liter V-6 engine.

Kathy Jackson, Diana T. Kurylko, Mark Rechtin, Jason Stein, Amy Wilson and Rick Kranz contributed to this report

* * *

NY world debuts

Production

* 2006 Cadillac XLR-V

* 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer SS

* 2006 Chevrolet Malibu SS

* 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS

* 2006 Dodge SRT model

* 2007 Ford Mustang Shelby Cobra

* 2006 Jeep Commander

* 2006 Jeep performance model

* 2006 Isuzu pickup

* 2006 Mercedes-Benz R class

* 2006 Mitsubishi Evolution

Concept

* Ford Sport Trac Adrenalin

* Nissan Sport Concept

* Scion t2B

* Suzuki X2

CAPTION(S):

San Antonio Express-News G. Chambers Williams III column. - San Antonio Express-News (San Antonio, TX)

Byline: G. Chambers Williams III

Apr. 3--NEW YORK -- Ford performance addicts will get two new products to satisfy their need for speed.

Ford Motor Co. officials rolled out their latest high-performance street vehicles during the recent media preview of the 2005 New York International Auto Show: a boss new Mustang and a pickup that will replace the F-150 Lightning model.

On hand to show off the newest Mustang was the automotive legend for whom this latest version is named, none other than Carroll Shelby.

Standing onstage at New York's Javits Convention Center in front of a backdrop showing photos of him in the '60s, when the first Shelby Mustangs were created, Shelby introduced the 2006 Shelby Cobra GT500, a high-performance version of the new Mustang generation that debuted in the fall.

Thirty-five years after the introduction of the first Shelby Mustang, Shelby crowed about the performance of his latest creation, actually a creation of Ford engineers with Shelby's input. It boasts a 5.4-liter V-8 engine that cranks out 450 horsepower and 450 foot-pounds of torque. That's 50 percent more power than Ford offers in the 2005 Mustang GT, with a 4.6-liter V-8.

'I've never driven anything that has as much perceived value and drives like this car,' Shelby said. He said he had already driven the car on a test track to try out its impressive power.

The car, which goes on sale next year, is the most powerful factory-built Mustang ever, said Hau Thai-Tang, director of Ford's Advance Product Creation and Special Vehicle Team.

Carrying much of the styling of the original Shelby Mustangs of the late '60s, the new Shelby Cobra will be the 'king of the road,' Thai-Tang said.

Ford said Shelby's role in the car's creation was one of 'senior adviser,' just as he was in assisting the Ford 'dream team' that designed the GT supercar that debuted last year.

'I've worked with the SVT guys for several years now, and I know they have the guts, the talent and the passion to deliver the best performance Mustangs ever,' Shelby said.

Ford said a production version of the Shelby Cobra GT500 will go on sale next year, 'followed by a steady stream of performance products developed by SVT, including Ford Sport Trac Adrenalin, the industry's first performance sport utility truck, in 2007.' That truck was introduced at the New York show as well, by Ford's chief designer, J Mays.

Built as a high-performance version of the next-generation Explorer Sport Trac SUT, or sport utility truck, the Adrenalin essentially is a four-door Explorer with the rear cut off to create a smaller-than-normal pickup bed. There is seating for four, in two rows of captain's chairs, but the real news is under the hood.

The Adrenalin is powered by a supercharged 4.6-liter V-8 that creates 390 horsepower and 390 foot-pounds of torque. It will be connected to the first six-speed automatic Ford has put into an SVT vehicle.

Other special features include a lowered body, SVT-tuned fully independent suspension, bolstered sport seats and a four-foot composite cargo box (with 30 percent more capacity than in the current Sport Trac).

Ford says the Adrenalin will go on sale in 2007 as the replacement for the F-150 Lightning SVT performance pickup, which the company claims was the first high-performance pickup. It was introduced in 2000, but went out of production upon introduction of the newest generation of the F-150 for 2004.

As for the new Shelby Cobra, it's meant to help continue the consumer excitement Ford has enjoyed over last fall's introduction of the retro-styled new generation of the Mustang.

'The all-new 2005 Ford Mustang is one of the hottest cars in many years,' said Phil Martens, Ford's group vice president for product creation.

The Mustang is 'the hottest new car in the country,' Ford executive Steve Lyons said during the Cobra's rollout in New York.

'We have already announced that we will build 80,000 more Mustangs this year than last year, but it still won't be enough,' he said.

As for the new GT500 and the Adrenalin, 'We take the performance business very seriously,' Lyons said. 'Our SVT customers are an enthusiast group that is vocal and wants more fast cars, faster.' The GT500 is a natural evolution of the new Mustang chassis, which 'was engineered from the beginning to be the basis of a high-performance, world-class sports car from SVT,' Tai-Tang said.

'SVT led the modern-day factory performance trend with the Mustang Cobra and the industry's first high-performance truck, the F-150 Lightning,' he said. 'Today, we're building on that pioneering vision with vehicles like the Ford GT, Shelby Cobra GT500 and Sport Trac Adrenalin -- great performance machines that connect with enthusiasts in a way no other companies or vehicles can match.' He said the production GT500 will be the first in a string of specialty Mustangs coming from SVT.

Tai-Tang promised that this newest 'ultimate Mustang' will come to market priced the same as the previous SVT Mustang, which listed for just under $34,000 in 2004, its last year of production. Planned for now is only a fastback hardtop version; the previous model came in hardtop and convertible forms. The convertible listed for just over $37,000.

Ford said the GT500's cast-iron-block, four-valve engine 'is force-fed an air-and-fuel mixture via a screw-type supercharger at 8.5 pounds per square inch of boost.' 'Aluminum cylinder heads, piston rings and bearings sourced from the Ford GT program bring a high level of proven durability to the drivetrain, while upgraded cooling components promise longevity,' said a news release handed out with the New York introduction.

'The engine has been further tuned from its first application in a Mustang, the 2000 SVT Mustang Cobra R, a limited edition model of 300 units.' The engine will be connected to a T-56 six-speed manual gearbox, Ford said. It is the same transmission that was used in the 2000 SVT Mustang Cobra R, 2004 SVT Mustang Cobra and the new Ford Racing Mustang FR500C.

Inside, black leather is used on the top of the dash, door panels, center armrest, shift lever, shift boot and parking brake handle.

Red leather seating surfaces and door panel inserts are used for contrast, the company said. Snake logos are embroidered into the seatbacks.

'We've taken leather design trends to a new level by using it on almost every exposed surface in the GT500,' said Ford senior designer Keith Rogman. 'Leather has long been a performance fashion accessory for enthusiasts, from jackets to racing gloves, so it perfectly matches all the other driving-oriented cues.' The Shelby GT500 script and Cobra image also decorate the steering wheel.

Other features include titanium-faced gauges. Cabin accessories are trimmed with a satin-aluminum finish, including the shift lever knob.

Here's some history that won't be news to most Mustang enthusiasts: Shelby first put his name on a Mustang in 1964 'when he was asked to inject some high performance into the brand-new pony car,' Ford said.

That first effort was the GT-350R. Later came the GT-350 and what was known as the 'rent-a-racer' Mustang, Ford said -- the GT-350H, a joint project with the Hertz rental car company.

And, the company said, the 'ultimate Shelby Mustang' of the era was the GT-500KR, or 'King of the Road.' 'Powered by a big-block 428-cubic-inch Cobra Jet V-8, the GT-500 was one of the most powerful, and memorable, muscle cars of that period,' the company said Shelby Mustang production ended in 1970, with a total of 14,559 built.

To see more of the San Antonio Express-News, or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.mysanantonio.com.

Copyright (c) 2005, San Antonio Express-News

Distributed by Knight Ridder/Tribune Business News.

For information on republishing this content, contact us at (800) 661-2511 (U.S.), (213) 237-4914 (worldwide), fax (213) 237-6515, or e-mail reprints@krtinfo.com.

Ford puts Explorer Sport Trac on hiatus.(News)(Brief Article) - Automotive News

Byline: Amy Wilson

Production of the Ford Explorer Sport Trac will halt for seven months starting in late June as Ford redesigns the model.

The Sport Trac, an Explorer-based SUV with a pickup bed, will go back into production as a 2007 model around Feb. 1 at Ford's Louisville, Ky., assembly plant. The hiatus means there will be no 2006 model year for the Sport Trac.

Ford is shutting down Sport Trac production so it can launch a re-engineered 2006 Explorer and Mercury Mountaineer later this summer.

The Sport Trac will migrate to the updated Explorer platform when it returns in 2006.

Until the planned break, Ford will try to boost inventories by shifting some additional production capacity to the Sport Trac, which is holding onto sales better than its bigger SUV siblings, Ford spokesman Dan Bedore said. But because of limited parts availability and scheduled downtime at the Louisville plant, the added production won't be enough to keep Sport Trac sales from trailing off sharply this year.

Ford won't break out exact numbers, but the company says Sport Trac sales rose by 20 percent in March and were flat for the first quarter as a whole. By contrast, total Explorer sales plunged by 25.1 percent in the first quarter. Ford sells about 60,000 Sport Tracs annually.

The 2007 Sport Trac will get a V-8 engine for the first time. It will continue to offer a base V-6 engine.

A concept displayed at the 2005 Detroit auto show hints at the brawnier styling coming for the redesigned truck. A new interior, independent rear suspension and a six-speed automatic transmission also are on tap.

Ford already is planning a high-performance version of the truck developed by its Special Vehicle Team. The Ford Sport Trac Adrenalin is expected to go on sale in 2007.

CAPTION(S):

Ford seeks level sales with new Sport Trac.(Ford Motor Co.)(Ford Explorer Sport Trac)(Brief Article) - Automotive News

Byline: Amy Wilson

Ford Motor Co. hasn't targeted higher sales for the redesigned 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac.

Instead, the automaker hopes to maintain sales at the level of the outgoing model, said Chris Brewer, chief engineer for the Explorer and Sport Trac.

The cautious approach reflects the steep fall in SUV sales this year.

Ford doesn't break out detailed sales figures for the Sport Trac, a combination SUV-pickup. But the nameplate consistently has sold around 60,000 units annually, Ford officials say.

The 2007 Sport Trac will go on sale in late February. There was no 2006 model. Sport Trac production has been suspended since June as Ford prepared a re-engineered 2006 Explorer for launch this fall.

The 2007 Sport Trac will share a platform with the 2006 Explorer, although the wheelbase is 16.8 inches longer than the Explorer's. Much of the exterior and interior is shared with the Explorer, while the tailgate is shared with the F-150.

With the '07 model, the Sport Trac gets a V-8 engine for the first time, a 4.6-liter producing 292 hp that is paired with a six-speed automatic. The Sport Trac's standard 4.0-liter V-6 is paired with a five-speed automatic.

The Sport Trac also gets an independent rear suspension for the first time.

Its cargo box is deeper than the previous version and contains three integrated storage bins.

Ford hasn't set prices for the 2007 model, but Brewer said no big increase is in the cards. The 2005 Sport Trac started at $24,940, including shipping.

Ford already is planning a high-performance version of the truck developed by its Special Vehicle Team. The Sport Trac Adrenalin is expected to go on sale in 2007.

CAPTION(S):

Beauty of the Beast - The Beacon News - Aurora (IL)

The Ford Shelby Cobra GT500 (foreground) is designed to be a worthy successor to the trend-setting Shelby Cobra of earlier years.

The Ford Special Vehicle Team (SVT) and Carroll Shelby have joined forces to create a high-performance Mustang that fittingly carries the Cobra GT500 name with great power, impressive handling and classic Shelby design cues.The Ford Shelby Cobra GT500 will continue SVT's legacy of high- performance Mustangs with a production version slated to go on sale in 2006. Preliminary ratings put the engine at more than 450 horsepower.

'With the new GT500, SVT engineers are developing a high-performance Mustang that has not only won the blessing of Carroll Shelby himself, but one that lives up to the best of what the GT500 badge represents to enthusiasts,' says Tom Jones, SVT chief program engineer.

'The GT500 delivers on all the key ingredients expected of an SVT Mustang: big power, great handling, awesome brakes, and of course, a distinct look.'

The GT500 features the most powerful engine ever fit into a factory Mustang, delivering more than 450 horsepower and 450 foot- pounds of torque. The GT500 will be followed by other SVT-engineered performance products, possibly including a version of the production-intent Sport Trac Adrenalin, the industry's first performance sport-utility truck.

Energized by the launch of the Ford GT supercar in 2004, Ford's in- house performance brand also takes the reins of developing non- SVT branded blue-oval models, including other performance Mustangs inspired by the Bullitt GT and Mach 1.

'SVT is transforming itself with great new products and the responsibility to apply its expertise to other parts of our performance world,' says Phil Martens, Ford group vice president for product creation.

'The Ford GT and GT500 are the foundation for the momentum SVT will inject across more and more vehicles.'

Classic big-block displacement and modern SVT engineering create a most potent factory Mustang.

When the Shelby GT350 was introduced, it was instantly respected as a performance car. Yet, it wasn't until Ford's famed 428-cubic-inch big-block found its way into the GT500 that Mustang's reputation as a true muscle car was firmly established.

To be true to that legacy, the Shelby Cobra GT500 had to possess firepower competitive with the world's best performance cars. Following the theory that 'there's no replacement for displacement,' SVT engineers fit the new GT500 with a version of Ford's 5.4-liter 'MOD' V-8 engine. This is only the second time a factory Mustang has used the 5.4- liter engine, following the 2000 SVT Mustang Cobra R.

In addition to muscle-car cubic inches, SVT engineers employed modern performance technologies developed for the supercharged SVT Mustang Cobra and the Ford GT. As a result, the GT500 features a cast-iron block topped with the Ford GT's four-valve aluminum cylinder heads. These high-flow heads are paired with a screw-type supercharger and a water-to-air intercooler, for a broad torque curve all the way up to redline.

Higher-flowing heads help the engine 'breathe' better for increased power and fuel efficiency, while the addition of the intercooler allows the supercharger to deliver a denser fuel-air mixture to the cylinders, resulting in a more powerful charge for each firing cycle. Also sourced from the Ford GT are the piston rings and rod bearings, ensuring a high level of performance and durability.

However, the ultimate factory Mustang isn't limited to just a power upgrade. Shelby and Ford SVT are known for delivering balanced, all- around performance -- and the Shelby Cobra GT500 is no exception.

The development of the GT500 chassis started during the 2005 Mustang program, when the basic geometry and chassis structure were tested and validated on a number or race tracks. The result is solid chassis that has won acclaim from media and customers alike. Mustang features a revised MacPherson strut independent front suspension with lightweight Reverse L lower control arms, and a solid-axle, three-link rear suspension with coil springs and a Panhard rod.

The Reverse L configuration improves lateral motion control and steering response via a firm bushing located where the shorter leg connects to the chassis. At the same time, a softer bushing on the longer leg better dampens road shocks. The revised three-link setup with coils helps maintain constant toe-in and camber relative to the road surface, while the Panhard rod controls side-to-side axle movement in relation to the chassis for improved tracking.

Prior to his current assignment as director of advanced product creation and SVT, Hau Thai-Tang served as the chief engineer for the 2005 Mustang.

'During development of the new Mustang, plenty of time was spent at the track ensuring the platform met our requirements, and was capable of handling future performance derivatives,' says Thai- Tang. 'Media and customer reactions have been extremely positive in terms of chassis dynamics.'

The base architecture was further validated by the race-prepared Ford Racing Mustang FR500C, built ground-up from the base Mustang body structure and suspension geometry to run in the Grand- Am Cup series. Out of the box, an FR500C competed in and won its first ever race in the season-opener at Daytona International Speedway in February 2005.

'In terms of performance, the solid-rear-axle setup in the Shelby Cobra GT500 has been proven in race competition this year with a Ford Racing Mustang FR500C taking the checkered flag at Daytona,' Thai-Tang said. 'First race, first win; not bad against the best from Germany and Japan.'

To create the GT500, SVT engineers are using real-world experience gained during more than 12 years of building Mustang Cobras to deliver the power brand's signature chassis tuning for a balanced, performance-tuned ride that still maintains the compliancy required for everyday driving. This includes SVT engineers recalibrating the shock valves and spring rates for increased wheel control and road feedback. A new shock tower brace and structural K-member will deliver even crisper steering response. Finally, a larger rear stabilizer bar will reduce body lean.

To put a stop on all of this power and handling ability, SVT has employed some of the biggest brakes in the business. The GT500 features 14-inch cross-drilled Brembo brake rotors up front, clamped by four-piston aluminum calipers. The rear features 13-inch discs with two- piston calipers. Unique 19-by-9.5- inch aluminum split-five-spoke wheels are wrapped in 255/45ZR- 19 high-performance rubber to help secure the GT500 to the road.

SVT has remained a viable specialty performance group within Ford for more than decade because it has a unique connection with its customers.

'SVT communicates with its customers on a personal level rather than using national advertising campaigns,' says George Ayres, SVT sales and marketing manager. 'We think this approach gives us a unique advantage in understanding our customers' needs to help keep improving SVT products and business.'

BUSINESS BRIEFING - The Washington Post

Airlines

Northwest Airlines pilots gave union leaders the authority toconduct a strike vote if there is no progress in negotiations overwage and benefit cuts the airline is seeking, the union head told aNew York bankruptcy court.

Mark McClain, chairman of the pilots union's master executivecouncil, testified that employees do not want a strike but acrimonybetween the airline has grown 'over time,' with many workersresenting the company's charge that labor costs are at the root ofthe carrier's problems.

LEGAL

Pacific Gas and Electric agreed to pay $295 million to settle aseries of lawsuits alleging that the utility sickened hundreds ofpeople by contaminating the water in three California counties.

The settlement affects about 1,100 people in Kings, Riverside andSan Bernardino counties.

About 100 to 150 people still haven't settled, PG&E spokesman JonTremayne said.

The complaints allege that PG&E exposed neighboring homes to watercontaminated with chromium 6, a possible carcinogen, from the late1960s through the mid-1980s. PG&E acknowledged that some of itsworkers learned about the presence of chromium in the water wellsduring the 1960s but didn't alert the company or the communities.

INTERNET

A file-destroying computer worm variously named 'Nyxem.D,''MyWife.E,' 'Blackmal.E,' 'Kama Sutra' and 'Blackworm,' which was setto activate yesterday, caused relatively little damage in Asia andEurope, although one Italian city shut down computers as aprecaution.

APPOINTMENTS

Advancis Pharmaceutical said Edward M. Rudnic would no longer beboard chairman but would continue as president and chief executive.

Rudnic, a co-founder of the Germantown drug firm, will be replacedas chairman by R. Gordon Douglas Jr., an infectious-disease expertwho has served on the company's board since 2000.

Advancis is developing a new extended-release version of theantibiotic amoxicillin, though the product and the company havesuffered several setbacks of late.

Shares of Advancis closed yesterday at $1.95, up 11 cents.

MEDIA

Dow Jones, publisher of the Wall Street Journal, faces a potentialcredit rating cut by Moody's Investors Service because of decliningperformance.

Ratings on about $500 million in Dow Jones commercial paper may bedowngraded after a review, Moody's said.

AUTOMOTIVE

Design changes in sport-utility vehicles and pickups have reduceddeaths in cars struck by the large vehicles, a study says.

The number of deaths of drivers in cars caught in side-impactcrashes with SUVs dropped nearly 50 percent when automakers loweredthe height of SUVs or added impact-absorbing bars below the frontbumpers, said the report by the Insurance Institute for HighwaySafety.

Ford Motor will end production of the $150,000 GT sports car thisyear and will not build the Explorer Sport Trac Adrenalin, a 390-horsepower sport-utility vehicle.

MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS

Town & Country Trust, an owner of apartment complexes mainly onthe East Coast, said it received a superior takeover offer fromOriole Partnership, giving a group led by Morgan Stanley a chance tomatch the bid.

Oriole Partnership, a venture of Essex Property Trust, UBS WealthManagement and AEW Oriole Co-Investment, bid $36 a share, higher thanthe $33.90 a share offered by affiliates of Morgan Stanley RealEstate and Onex Real Estate. Morgan Stanley's offer is valued at $1.3billion including debt.

INSIDER TRANSACTIONS

L-3 Communications Holdings chief executive Frank C. Lanza plansto sell 1.53 million of the company's shares by exercising stockoptions that will expire next year.

Lanza will sell about 110,000 shares each month for the next 14months, the New York company said in a statement.

STOCKS

Archer Daniels Midland said it is increasing its cash dividend toshareholders. The company plans to pay a dividend of 10 cents -- anincrease of 1.5 cents per share -- on March 10 to shareholders ofrecord on Feb. 17.

Wendy's International reported a $30 million profit for its fiscalfourth quarter, in contrast with a loss of $141.4 million in thecomparable period a year earlier. Revenue for the three months endedJan. 1 edged down to $977.3 million from $977.8 million.

For the year, earnings were $224.1 million, up from $52 million.Revenue rose 4 percent to $3.78 billion.

Same-store sales, a key measure of a retailer's performance, fell3.7 percent at its Wendy's restaurants.

Powerful cars take stage in Manhattan. - Detroit Free Press (Detroit, MI)

Byline: Mark Phelan

Mar. 23--The windows of Manhattan's Jacob Javits Convention Center will rattle today as automakers crank up a brace of powerful performance cars and trucks at the New York A uto S how.

After several years when the New York show was a haven for fuel sippers like the Ford Escape hybrid gasoline-electric SUV, the focus shifts to fast-moving eye candy this year.

The new models range from sporty small cars like Ford's 450-horsepower-plus Mustang Shelby Cobra GT 500 and Cadillac's 440-horsepower XLR-V roadster to speedy people movers like the 415-horsepower Hemi-powered Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 and Saab's 250-horsepower 9-3 Sport Combi station wagon.

Jeep also will introduce its eagerly awaited seven-passenger Commander SUV.

Ford will use the show to reintroduce its Special Vehicle Team, the engineering group that produces sporty derivatives of Ford cars and trucks. SVT has not introduced any new vehicles for several years, and there had been questions about the sub- brand's future.

The Shelby Cobra will go on sale next year as a 2007 model. It boasts a 5.4-liter 32-valve supercharged V8 engine, a six-speed manual transmission and upgraded brakes, shocks and springs to manage its prodigious output.

Ford will show the 390-horsepower Sport Trac Adrenalin concept, too. It's based on the next generation of the company's four-door midsize pickup.

The new Sport Trac will go into production next year, and the SVT-engineered Adrenalin model will follow within a few months.

The Adrenalin's sporty styling and attractive red and black interior are very close to the production model, but the concept has less ground clearance, Ford product boss Phil Martens said. The truck will offer a supercharged 4.6-liter 32-valve V8 and a six-speed automatic transmission.

Cadillac's 2006 XLR-V roadster is the latest model from the brand's V-badged performance line. It uses the same 4.4-liter supercharged Northstar V8 and six-speed automatic transmission as the upcoming STS-V midsize sedan. It will go on sale later this year.

Jeep will introduce its fastest vehicle ever and a larger seven- seat SUV at the show.

The 2006 Grand Cherokee SRT8 combines a 6.1-liter, 415-horsepower Hemi V8 with an all-wheel-drive system to accelerate to 60 m.p.h. in less than 5 seconds.

Jeep expects the Grand Cherokee SRT8 to compete with super SUVs like the Porsche Cayenne turbo.

The all-new 2006 Jeep Commander large SUV will roll off the same assembly line as the Grand Cherokee, at DaimlerChrysler's Jefferson Avenue assembly plant in Detroit.

The blocky seven-seat Commander marks a return to the angular design of Jeeps like the original classic Willys and the more recent Cherokee and Wagoneer. Jeep will offer three engines: 5.7- and 4.7-liter V8s and a 3.7-liter V6.

Chevrolet will show SS, or super sport, models of three vehicles -- the Malibu sedan, Malibu Maxx hatchback and Trailblazer SS.

All three use larger engines, beefier running gear and sporty trim to boost the appeal of Chevy's high-volume models.

The show marks the U.S. debut of three stylish European models.

Saab's 9-3 Sport Combi promises to combine the automaker's impeccable credentials for safety with spirited performance in a good-looking, versatile package.

BMW will show its all-new 3-series, the latest car to use the company's daring new look, and Mercedes-Benz will unveil the production version of the radical new R-class wagon that goes into production at its Alabama assembly plant later this year.

To see more of the Detroit Free Press, or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.freep.com

Copyright (c) 2005, Detroit Free Press

Distributed by Knight Ridder/Tribune Business News.

For information on republishing this content, contact us at (800) 661-2511 (U.S.), (213) 237-4914 (worldwide), fax (213) 237-6515, or e-mail reprints@krtinfo.com.

Ford's Fields: SVT lives.(Special Vehicle Team)(Brief article) - Automotive News

Byline: Amy Wilson

Ford Motor Co.'s Special Vehicle Team will survive, Ford executive Mark Fields says. But the performance brand has been scaled back.

Going forward, Ford will offer one high-performance Mustang and one high-performance truck in its lineup, Fields said last week here at the New York auto show.

Ford expects to sell 5,000 to 10,000 units of each SVT vehicle annually, he said.

Fields, Ford's president of the Americas, wouldn't say what kind of truck is in the works or when it would debut. The Shelby GT500, the latest Mustang developed by SVT, is scheduled to go on sale this summer.

A two-vehicle stable is a departure from a year ago, when Ford said SVT eventually would have as many as five products, more than ever before. One of those was to have been the Ford Sport Trac Adrenalin in 2007. It later was canceled as part of the automaker's Way Forward restructuring plan.

That cancellation, plus other changes for SVT, had triggered apprehension over the performance brand's future. Fields tried to put those fears to rest.

'SVT isn't dying,'' he said. 'Would I like to do more? Sure. But at the same time, we've got to balance our resources.''

Fields acknowledged that SVT and Ford Racing's marketing groups have been combined. He described Ford's performance strategy as a three-pronged approach encompassing SVT, Ford Racing and 'personalized performance'' aimed at the tuner crowd.

Although SVT has been scaled back, Fields said he is 'from the school that says performance vehicles make brands stronger.''

Ford offers SVT to all its dealers.(Special Vehicle Team) - Automotive News

Byline: Amy Wilson

Beginning with this summer's introduction of the 2007 Shelby GT500, the Ford brand will let all its dealers sell Special Vehicle Team vehicles.

Now, only a limited number of SVT-certified dealers can sell the high-performance vehicles.

The change could help Ford sell more high-performance cars and trucks. But some SVT dealers are crying foul.

Meanwhile, after a two-year product drought for the SVT brand, its future is up in the air, sources say. It is not clear what, if any, products are slated for SVT beyond the GT500, and Ford has declined to talk about its plans.

Ford has about 600 full-line SVT dealerships; 700 others were certified for the now-discontinued SVT Focus. Beginning with the GT500, Ford will no longer limit the number of available certifications. Certification requirements will be different for each product. The Ford brand had 3,777 U.S. dealerships on Jan. 1.

'This will further strengthen the Ford brand by providing us with a greater opportunity to drive showroom traffic,'' wrote Darryl Hazel, president of Ford's customer service division, in an e-mail to dealers.

Ford says it's not backing away from performance products. Some sources say Ford is folding the SVT marketing team into the regular Ford brand team. Some also expect SVT's engineering team may be diluted or tied more closely to Ford's racing efforts.

That would be a remarkable about-face for SVT vehicles, which went on sale in 1992. Just a year ago, Ford's product chief, Phil Martens, said SVT was bigger and better-funded than ever before. Martens, who has since left Ford, said SVT would eventually have up to five products.

Product canceled

One of the new products was to be the Ford Sport Trac Adrenalin in 2007. But Ford canceled the Adrenalin as part of its Way Forward turnaround plan. Ford previously dropped plans for a next-generation F-150 Lightning.

SVT products typically sell for higher profits and at lower volumes - for instance, an average 7,260 units per model year for past SVT Mustangs. Ford has sold 144,994 SVT vehicles since 1992.

Ford spokeswoman Whitney Drake said the SVT organization is working on 'several future projects that we aren't ready to talk about just yet.'' She wouldn't say whether the SVT name will be carried forward beyond the GT500.

The SVT name already is diminished on the GT500, where the logo appears on the door sills. SVT is not included in the GT500 nameplate.

Ford is committed to performance, Drake said. Hau Thai-Tang, who had been a protege of Martens, remains director of advanced product creation and SVT.

Even though SVT dealers will get extra allocation of the GT500, some are upset to lose exclusive access to the high-margin products.

'It's a terrible mistake,'' said Beau Boeckmann, vice president of Galpin Motors Inc. in North Hills, Calif., which has had a full-line SVT business.

'You had a group that was very focused. They really understood the value of the product.''

Making that product available to all dealers will dilute the power of the SVT brand, Boeckmann said. He cited the SVT Focus, sold from 2001 to 2004, as an example. When it was made available to an extra 700 dealers, 'people sold it off like it was just a common Focus.''

But another full-line SVT dealer said Ford's move might boost the automaker's overall performance business, increase volume and help the brand. Tom Addis, chairman of the Ford national dealer council, said opening SVT up to all dealers should allow Ford to market the products better.

Addis, dealer principal at Lake City Ford in Couer d'Alene, Idaho, said, 'The concern has always been: If you have a product that most dealers can't sell, you're limited in how you can advertise it nationally.''

CAPTION(S):

Ford: V-8, cab room are key Sport Trac changes.(new launch from Ford) - Automotive News

Byline: Amy Wilson

With an optional V-8 engine and more interior room, the 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac was redesigned to answer customers' top demands, Ford says.

Ford's overhaul of the Sport Trac puts the SUV pickup on the updated platform that underpins the 2006 Ford Explorer. The Sport Trac previously rode on a platform two generations old.

The changes give the Sport Trac more power, more space and an independent rear suspension for the first time.

Most of all, customers requested the V-8 option and more cabin space, said Barry Redler, SUV group marketing manager for Ford, at a press event here. Those customers are more passionate about Sport Trac than any Ford SUV, he said.

'It's the closest thing to what Mustang does in cars,'' Redler said. 'It's an aspirational product for us.''

Even so, Ford isn't counting on gaining sales with the redesigned model. SUV sales have slumped, and gasoline is still running at more than $2.50 a gallon. But Ford executives have said the redesigned Sport Trac should hold ground at 50,000 to 60,000 annual sales.

Ford held the base price of the Sport Trac steady, while increasing the content of the entry-level model. The 2007 model starts at $24,940, including shipping. It went on sale in late February. Ford says it sold about 1,500 units in March.

The basics: The Sport Trac design is shared with the 2006 Explorer from the B-pillar forward. The wheelbase was stretched 16.8 inches, allowing for more cabin space than the previous Sport Trac. Ford also says vehicle stiffness has improved significantly.

The interior is new and shares components with the Explorer. Ford says improved brakes contribute to more payload capacity and towing power. Payload is 1,350 pounds, and towing capacity is 6,800 pounds.

Notable features: The Sport Trac now is available with a 4.6-liter V-8 engine producing 292 hp. It is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, the only one in its competitive class, Ford says. Redler estimates that 30 to 40 percent of Sport Tracs will be sold with the V-8, a $1,200 option. The standard Sport Trac has a 4.0-liter V-6 producing 210 hp.

The vehicle gets independent rear suspension for the first time to improve ride and handling, especially on rough surfaces. It's the suspension used on the 2006 Explorer.

The composite bed of the Sport Trac also features three recessed storage bins.

What Ford says: 'I'm optimistic about this vehicle,'' Redler said. 'While the medium traditional (SUV) segment has declined, and we source business from there, we also source business from the crew-cab compact pickup, which hasn't really declined.''

Compromises and shortcomings: There won't be a unique TV ad campaign for the Sport Trac. Ford considers it a niche vehicle and will promote it through the Internet, via direct mail and by other means.

Because the Sport Trac's interior repeats that of the 2006 Explorer, it also has the awkward door handles low on the interior front doors. Ford, which acknowledges the problem, is working on a modification.

Ford's restructuring plan caused it to cancel the Adrenalin, a performance version of the Sport Trac.

Nuts and bolts: The 2007 Sport Trac comes with stability control and side-curtain airbags. The old model had been blasted for rollover concerns, receiving a two-star rollover rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in 2004. The agency said the old Sport Trac had a 34.8 percent chance of a rollover in a single-vehicle crash.

The skinny: Customers who want a pickup bed combined with cabin space to haul passengers and gear should like this update of the Sport Trac. But the vehicle can get pricey when options are added, reaching into the mid-$30,000 range.

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Midgates are 'a couple of years away' for Ford. - Automotive News

SAN DIEGO - The success of Ford Motor Co.'s new Explorer Sport Trac and F-150 SuperCrew may come down to a feature the two trucks don't have. It's called a ``midgate,'' a door in the back of the sport-utility cabin that opens to the small pickup box. A competing sport-utility pickup from General Motors, the Chevrolet Avalanche, will have a midgate when it goes into production next year, but the Fords don't. ``I think (a midgate) is a good idea,'' says Dee Kapur, Ford's vehicle line director for full-sized light trucks. ``We're definitely looking at it, but it's a couple of years away.'' He spoke at a press event here. Whether buyers in the niche will demand a midgate is not clear. Ford says the feature was rejected by focus groups examining the Adrenalin, a 1996 auto show concept that had a midgate.