Ford Australia announced today it is investing $230 million to improve the fuel efficiency and environmental impact of its Australian-made models, including the first global application of Ford’s advanced 2.0-litre 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine in a rear-wheel drive vehicle, the Ford Falcon.
This continues the global roll-out of EcoBoost, the new technology from Ford that provides consumers with an affordable engine that delivers up to 20 per cent better fuel economy and 15 per cent fewer CO2 emissions.
Ford Australia is taking two other steps, in addition to EcoBoost, to offer consumers more choices for vehicles with better fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions:
- In 2010, Ford will introduce an advanced liquid-injection LPG system for the Ford Falcon, providing customers with the most advanced LPG technology on the market and making the Falcon even more attractive to private, taxi and fleet markets.
- The Ford Territory, the only Australian-made SUV, will receive a clean diesel version of Ford’s 2.7-litre turbocharged V6 engine, giving buyers the choice of an engine which improves fuel economy and reduces greenhouse gases.
Today’s announcement is supported by assistance from the Australian Government’s Green Car Innovation Fund and the Victorian State Government. It is in addition to Ford’s previous investment to engineer the company’s locally manufactured I6 engine for compliance with Euro IV emission standards.
Starting in 2011, the iconic Falcon, one of the largest-selling brands in automotive history and the first Australian-made car to be awarded a 5-star ANCAP rating, will become one of the greenest family cars in Australia with EcoBoost. Slated for a range of global vehicles – from small cars to large trucks – EcoBoost uses petrol turbocharged direct-injection technology to deliver improved fuel efficiency, emissions and driving performance versus larger displacement engines.
As the first rear-wheel drive car from Ford to receive the 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder EcoBoost, Falcon is benefiting from the One Ford strategy of accelerating products that customers want and value – and then making those products available on a global basis.
“Today’s announcements put Ford Australia in a strong position for profitable growth in today’s auto industry,” said Marin Burela, President & CEO of Ford Australia. “We are ensuring our core Falcon and Territory vehicles will have the most advanced, high-tech and cleanest engines possible. At the same time, this represents the biggest environmental transformation in the fifty-year history of Ford Falcon by giving buyers the newest engine in the Ford Motor Company stable.
“Falcon customers will now have the choice of either the continually popular I6 engine, which will be Euro IV compliant, or one of the first global applications of Ford’s EcoBoost, 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engines, while in a similar timeframe Territory customers will be able to access Ford’s world-class clean diesel engine technology,” Burela continued.
Ford Australia also announced that as a result of changing global economic conditions, the company has ended plans to manufacture the Ford Focus in Australia. After assessing the global requirements and costs of producing the next Focus in Australia, Ford determined that the changing economic conditions meant it could not make a business case for profitably manufacturing the car at its operations outside of Melbourne.
Ford’s new strategy allows the company to economically source small cars for the Australian market from overseas locations, while investing in leading-edge technologies to serve its core Falcon and Territory customers. The decision to not make the Focus in Australia will not result in any job losses.
“Although difficult, this is the right decision for Ford Australia,” said Burela. “Ford Australia has a strong commitment to manufacturing in this country built on ongoing support from employees, customers, dealers, suppliers and government. Our investments today demonstrate not only our commitment to address climate change – but to bringing leading edge technologies to the Australian market.
“Ford is fully committed to working towards fuel economy leadership in every segment in which we compete, across local and imported vehicles. In fact, later this year we will introduce the most fuel-efficient vehicle in Australia when we launch the Fiesta ECOnetic, which will be more economical than hybrids at only 3.7L/100km,” said Burela.
These significant projects add to a continued program of ongoing investment by Ford in the Australian market, including:
- More than $500 million investment in the current FG Falcon range of vehicles.
- Leading design and engineering work on Ford’s next generation compact pickup truck, which will eventually be sold in more than 100 countries.
- More than $80 million invested at the Lara Proving Ground, including building the largest environmental wind tunnel in the Southern Hemisphere.
- $21 million investment in ongoing production of the company’s iconic I6 engine, which will become Euro IV compliant in mid-2010.
“Ford is the only local manufacturer to increase market share in Australia over the past year. Last month, we reinstated two non-production days back into the production schedule as a result of rising demands. In June, Falcon Ute sales were their best since June 2006, the Falcon XR had its best monthly sales on record, and demand for the new-look Territory has exceeded our expectations” said Burela.
About EcoBoost
The EcoBoost program is part of Ford’s ongoing and wide-ranging global initiative to deliver fuel-efficient powertrain systems with the power and performance found in larger-displacement engines. EcoBoost will be offered on Ford vehicles throughout the world. On sale now in select Ford vehicles in North America, more than 90 per cent of Ford’s North American nameplates will be available with EcoBoost by 2013.
The key to the EcoBoost system is the harmony between the turbochargers and direct-injection fuel system. The turbochargers recover energy from the exhaust that otherwise would have been wasted and put it back in the engine to gain efficiency. Simply, the turbocharging system puts more air into the engine for more power. A compressor increases or “boosts” the pressure of the air entering the engine. An intercooler reduces the air temperature before it enters the engine.
About LPG
The liquid injection LPG engine for Falcon is the most advanced LPG technology on the market. By injecting liquid LPG directly into each intake track, the system delivers better fuel economy, reduced CO2 and improved performance through a more precise metering of fuel to the engine. Initial analysis indicates liquid injection LPG technology can reduce CO2 levels 12 per cent or more compared to current LPG technology.
About Clean Diesel
Technology advancements are reducing the tailpipe emissions that diesel engines traditionally produce. Buyers of Ford’s Australian-made Territory SUV will be able to get a clean diesel option that generates fewer greenhouse gasses, while at the same time giving them better fuel economy performance than comparable petrol-driven engines. Clean diesel variants of a new 2.7-litre V6 engine will reduce CO2 by up to 25 per cent from six cylinder petrol engines.
Source: Ford New Zealand www.ford.co.nz
Carbuying.co.nz Motoring news.
Simon Lucas on the North Shore are now the North Shore Auckland agents for Great Wall Motors
Stocking a great range of Great Wall Motors utes both new 2WD and 4WD.
Simon Lucas Great Wall Motors offers the best in customer service.
Great Wall Motors is China’s leading vehicle manufacturer and Simon Lucas Northshore Auckland is proud to offer the great range of utes to the public including the SA220 ute and the V220 ute.
Visit Simon Lucas Great Wall Motors online at www.simonlucasgwm.co.nz
Mitsubishi Motors’ rugged Triton GLS is the only 4WD ute in New Zealand to have side and curtain airbags as standard. A recent model year update to the GLS saw the introduction of the extra airbags, adding to the existing array of safety devices including ABS brakes, driver and passenger airbags, with an on/off switch for the passenger’s air bag.
“The Triton now has more safety features than any other ute in the 4WD segment and none come with side and curtain airbags as standard,” said Mitsubishi Motors NZ general manager of sales and marketing Peter Wilkins. “It already holds a four-star ANCAP rating, placing it first equal in the class but we anticipate this will make us the outright leader.”
The GLS now also features Super-Select 4WD, cruise control and new 17” alloy wheels. The Super Select 4WD System allows four driving modes and offers the benefit of on-the-fly shifts from 2WD to 4WD high range at speeds of up to 100km/h.
2H (2WD high range) provides rear-wheel drive for a smooth drive down the highway or across town. When the weather turns bad and the road gets rough, 4H (full-time 4WD) has the flexibility of a centre differential with viscous coupling unit, providing excellent traction in unpredictable road conditions or volatile surfaces.
4HLC (4WD high range with locked centre differential) distributes power equally to all four wheels to meet off-road challenges and help keep the vehicle on track in rugged or slippery conditions, while 4LLC (4WD low range with locked centre differential) maximises low-end torque to cross the toughest terrain, mud and snow.
“These additions bolster what is a very reliable, hard-working diesel ute,” said Mr Wilkins. “And we’ve managed to deliver it at a very competitive price that will appeal to fleet and private customers alike; $52,990 for the manual and $54,990 for the auto.”
Arrange a test drive of the New Mitsubishi Triton at the following dealers
North Shore – Simon Lucas Mitsubishi www.simonlucas.co.nz
Auckland – Andrew Simms Mitsubishi Newmarket www.andrewsimms.co.nz
Source : Mitsubishi Motors New Zealand www.mitsubishi-motors.co.nz
Carbuying.co.nz Motoring news.
Ford elevates Ranger to new heights in style and design defined by its distinctive, muscular Tough Style exterior. With genuine class-leading TDCi power and performance, the new Ford Ranger for 2009 also comes loaded with real visual excitement.
Ford’s global leadership and expertise in pickup truck design and development has led to considerable improvements to its compact Ranger pickup. Respected throughout more than 130 markets around the world, the new Ford Ranger effectively combines genuine durability and toughness with a new distinct and muscular exterior design.
“Through the years Ranger has earned the respect from those who depend on their truck every day,” says Ian Constance, Product Development Director, Ford Motor Company, Asia Pacific and Africa.
“The new Ranger leverages its toughness with Ford’s engineering know-how to create a compact truck that is unequalled for its all-around ability and style.”
This blend of strength and style – Ford describes it as Tough Style – defines new Ranger and brings to the compact truck segment a very high degree of attention to design and detail beyond the competition’s offerings.
“Its contemporary design gives new Ranger instant credibility as an urban vehicle and its versatility makes Ranger a logical lifestyle choice,” says Scott Strong, Design Director, Ford Motor Company, Asia Pacific and Africa.
“You’d be proud to be seen driving the new Ranger anywhere, and its strong on-road presence is built upon expert craftsmanship and detailed design.”
Clearly inspired by the high-impact Ranger MAX show truck – which Ford revealed at the Thailand International Motor Expo in November – the new Ford Ranger puts into production several distinctive design elements that create a new look for the compact pickup segment.
“The very positive reaction to Ranger MAX validated our Tough Style design direction for the new Ranger,” says Paul Gibson, Chief Designer, Ford Motor Company, Asia Pacific and Africa.
“Ranger MAX is visually distinctive and muscular, and those same design elements such as the wide grille and open mouth air intake [feeding the intercooler and radiator] are used effectively on new Ford Ranger.
“We’re convinced that the new Ranger’s design will hit home with buyers who appreciate a truck that looks tough and is tough. And they can be sure that the new Ranger is as capable as ever.”
Find out more or arrange a test drive at Dunedin City Ford www.dcford.co.nz
Source: Ford New Zealand www.ford.co.nz
Carbuying.co.nz Motoring news.
A new look Territory range has been launched in New Zealand featuring key exterior changes, fresh interior environments, a revised model-line up and a host of additional equipment now fitted as standard.
Available today, Ford New Zealand is proud to introduce the new SY Territory MK II line up, the latest iteration of the ever popular Ford SUV that has sold over 8,400 units in New Zealand over the last four years.
“The Territory has been an outstanding success for Ford since it was launched in 2004, achieving both sales success and critical acclaim over the past four and a half years, with more than 86,000 customers to date and a multitude of consumer and industry awards,” Ford Australia President and CEO Marin Burela said.
“Territory has proven immensely popular with consumers who love its car-like handling, spacious and flexible interior, stylish design and high levels of occupant safety.”
“The new look Territory builds on these great attributes, while taking the next step in its evolution with a revised exterior design, fresh interior appointments and a host of new equipment.”
The revised model line-up for the Territory range consists of a TS RWD, TS AWD, Ghia AWD and a Ghia Turbo AWD – the TX RWD, TX AWD and the FPV F6X will no longer be offered.
Major design changes include an all-new bonnet (for all bar the Ghia Turbo), with a complementary new front bumper, upper and lower grilles, new headlamps and a new fog lamp bezel.
New body coloured door handles, new chrome belt moulding, revised tail lamps and body coloured exterior mirrors are also part of the new exterior package.
Additional new design elements, which apply to both Ghia and Ghia Turbo models, include a new fender feature, turn indicators integrated into the side mirrors, side steps and privacy glass on rear passenger, rear side and tailgate windows.
New design alloy wheels feature across the entire Territory range.
The interior of the new Territory has also received a significant freshening, with new seat materials, colour finishers and trim highlights on all models.
The list of new items extends to Interior Command Centre (ICC) finishes, instrument panel spear colours and a new Shadow interior environment colour on all models.
Silver steering wheel buttons are another new touch for the new Territory and will be fitted as standard on TS, Ghia and Ghia Turbo models.
A host of additional equipment and features are now fitted as standard on the new look Territory range, further improving its competitiveness in the hotly contested SUV segment, as well as delivering a compelling value-for-money proposition for customers.
Territory TS becomes the entry level specification and gains a reverse parking camera and a third row seat as standard.
Ghia models also gain an Alpine rear DVD system, side steps, rear privacy glass and 18-inch alloy wheels, while the Ghia Turbo picks up the same list of additions and a new alloy wheel design (18 inch wheels are already standard fitment on the top-of-the-line Territory model).
All variants of the new Territory are now available in New Zealand except for the TS AWD, which will be introduced in October.
For pricing or to arrange a test drive contact the new vehicle sales team at Dunedin City Ford visit www.dcford.co.nz
Source Ford New Zealand www.ford.co.nz
Despite the new vehicle market suffering its worst April in 35 years, Mazda New Zealand is weathering the storm and continued to cement its fourth position in the market.
While Mazda sales were down 30.2% on April 2008 figures and 22% year to date it fared much better than the new car industry which was down 36.5% compared with April 2008 and 33.1% year to date. Mazda achieved an outstanding market share of 8.4% for the month.
Andrew Clearwater, managing director Mazda New Zealand, said while the tough economic climate was impacting on new vehicle sales, he was pleased with Mazda’s performance for 2009 so far.
“Mazda’s core vehicle line up delivers enhanced fuel efficiency without sacrificing style and performance and that has resonated with Kiwi motorists. We expect our sales to lift following the launch of the new generation Mazda3 last week. The feedback we’ve received from customers after only a few days since releasing the car has been extremely encouraging,” said Clearwater.
The Mazda3’s predecessor continued to perform in its final full month, ranking fourth in the Motor Industry Association’s Top 15 selling models for April. The Mazda2 and Mazda6 also featured in the list with the Mazda6 continuing to lead the 4 cylinder medium car segment.
Source: Mazda New Zealand www.mazda.co.nz
Carbuying.co.nz Motoring news.
Mazda New Zealand has added some ‘zoom-zoom’ to the Big Night In by contributing three new-generation Mazda3s for the event organisers to use in the lead up to the Telethon.
The sign written hatchbacks, in stunning velocity red, indigo lights and graphite mica, will be seen on Auckland’s roads over the coming months.
“We are thrilled to be supporting such a great event and like many other New Zealanders we feel a sense of nostalgia and pride about bringing this iconic Kiwi show back to life,” said Andrew Clearwater, Mazda New Zealand managing director.
Viewers will also have the chance to bid on a new-generation Mazda3 which will be auctioned throughout the Big Night In on www.sella.co.nz.
The Big Night In Telethon screening on TV3 on 8 August starting at 7.00pm and will feature current All Blacks along with local and international actors, comedians, musicians, community and cultural performers. All money raised will enable the charity KidsCan to further support young New Zealanders living in poverty.
Article provided to Carbuying.co.nz by Mazda New Zealand. www.mazda.co.nz
Carbuying.co.nz Motoring news.
About the KidsCan Standtall Charitable Trust: www.kidscan.org.nz
The KidsCan StandTall Charitable Trust (KidsCan) is a national charity dedicated to ensuring Kiwi kids less fortunate than others have a bright future. KidsCan provides three targeted programmes; ‘Raincoats for Kids’, ‘Shoes for Kids’ and ‘Food for Kids’, which remove the barriers preventing financially disadvantaged children from getting the most out of their education and life. Kidscan is the official charity of the All Blacks.
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