Sioux Falls Ford

Congratulations to the Sioux Falls Winners of the Ford Fiesta Movement!

2009-05-26T10:51:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to Tayna K. and Hugh W. Winners of the Ford Fiesta Movement in Sioux Falls, SD! http://www.fiestamovement.com/ . Over 4,000 people applied to test drive the Ford Fiesta on the American road long before its launch here. But only 100 were chosen to be the Agents of the Fiesta Movement. They entered via You Tube. What they have won is described by Ford “In the ultimate foreign exchange program, our 100 agents are spending six months behind the wheel of their own Fiesta, sharing their experiences, and completing monthly missions to show you what experiencing the Ford Fiesta is all about, way in advance of the U.S. launch in 2010.”

They will have 2 magenta Fiestas driving on the streets of Sioux Falls for 6 months, so keep your eyes out for Tayna and Hugh driving around Sioux Falls! Watch for their Missions and keep up with them at www.fiestamovement.com

FUSION HYBRID AVERAGES 81.5 MPG, SETS WORLD RECORD WITH 1,445 MILES ON SINGLE TANK OF GAS

2009-05-26T10:04:00.002-05:00

Drivers trained in mileage-maximizing techniques achieve 1,445 miles on a single tank of gas in a 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid-averaging 81.5 mpg in Washington, D.C.-and set world record for gasoline-powered, midsize sedan
The Fusion Hybrid 1,000 Mile Challenge proves that fuel-efficient driving techniques can nearly double a vehicle's EPA-rated fuel economy
The demonstration of the Fusion Hybrid's ultra high-mileage potential also raised more than $8,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation

WASHINGTON, April 28, 2009-Drivers trained in mileage-maximizing techniques such as smooth acceleration and coasting to red lights were able to get an extraordinary 1,445.7 miles out of a single tank of gas during a fund-raising effort in Washington, D.C. They did it by averaging 81.5 miles per gallon in an off-the-showroom floor, non-modified 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid, the most fuel-efficient midsize car in North America-nearly doubling its U.S. certified mileage.

The Fusion Hybrid 1,000-Mile Challenge started at 8:15 a.m. EDT on Saturday, April 25, from Mount Vernon, Va., and ended April 28th at 5:37 a.m. on George Washington Parkway in Washington, D.C. After more than 69 continuous hours of driving, the Fusion Hybrid finally depleted its tank and came to a stop with an odometer reading of 1445.7 miles-setting a world record for gasoline-powered, midsize sedan.

The challenge team, which included NASCAR start Carl Edwards, high mileage trailblazer Wayne Gerdes and several Ford Motor Company engineers, raised more than $8,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) by exceeding the goal of 1,000 miles on a single tank of gas. The Fusion Hybrid's official estimated range is approximately 700 miles per tank.

"Not only does this demonstrate the Fusion Hybrid's fuel efficiency, it also shows that driving technique is one of the keys to maximizing its potential, " said Nancy Gioia, director, Ford Sustainable Mobility Technologies and Hybrid Vehicle Programs. "The fact that we were able to raise much needed funds for JDRF while raising the bar on fuel efficient driving performance made the effort doubly worthwhile."

Maximizing Mileage

A team of seven drivers prepared for the challenge by learning a few mileage-maximizing techniques, most of which can be used in any vehicle to improve fuel economy, but are especially useful in the Fusion Hybrid where the driver can take advantage of pure electric energy at speeds below 47 mph.

CleanMPG.com founder Wayne Gerdes, an engineer from Illinois who coined the term "hypermilling" to describe the mileage-maximizing techniques, provided the pointers.

They include:

Slowing down and maintaining even throttle pressure;
Gradually accelerating and smoothly braking;
Maintaining a safe distance between vehicles and anticipating traffic conditions;
Coasting up to red lights and stop signs to avoid fuel waste and brake wear;
Minimize use of heater and air conditioning to reduce the load on the engine;
Close windows at high speeds to reduce aerodynamic drag;
Applying the "Pulse and Glide" technique while maintaining the flow of traffic;
Minimize excessive engine workload by using the vehicle's kinetic forward motion to climb hills, and use downhill momentum to build speed; and
Avoiding bumps and potholes that can reduce momentum.

"You become very aware of your driving because you're constantly looking for opportunities to maximize mileage, and a more aware driver is a safer driver, too," said Gil Portalatin, Ford hybrid applications manager.

In addition, it is important for Fusion Hybrid drivers to manage the battery system's state of charge through the use of regenerative braking and coasting, and balancing the use of the electric motor and gas engine in city driving to avoid wasting fuel.

Fusion Hybrid drivers also can stay more connected to the hybrid driving experience with Ford's SmartGaugeTM with EcoGuide, a unique instrument cluster that helps coach drivers on how to optimize performace of their hybrid.

Ford to Make Car Payments if you Lose Job

2009-03-31T09:55:00.003-05:00

DEARBORN, Mich-

Ford Motor Co. said Tuesday it is offering The Ford Payment Protection Program, a payment protection plan to help reassure consumers who may be putting off buying a new car because of worries about losing their job.

Ford said Tuesday it will cover payments of up to $700 for 12 months of payments on any new Ford, Lincoln, or Mercury vehicle in the event a customer is involuntarily unemployed. . The program runs until June 1.*

*Only financed purchases are eligible for benefits (cash, lease, APP and equity line purchases are not eligible)

Ford Motor Company also announced stand-alone 0% APR for 36 months on all 2008, 2009 and 2010 model year vehicles. (Excluding 2010 hybrids and 2008/2009/2010 Mustang Shelby GT500s and KRs).

2009-02-24T12:50:00.003-06:00

2010 Fusion and 2009 Escape Hybrids save on fuel and taxes on April 15th

Customers eager to purchase America's most fuel-efficient midsize sedan, the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid, can take advantage of a $3,400 tax credit from the federal government, the highest credit amount ever offered for hybrids purchased or placed in service after December 31, 2005.

In addition, the Ford Escape Hybrid, still the most fuel-efficient SUV on the planet and the hybrid that paved the way for the next-generation Fusion, continues to qualify for a $3,000 tax credit, on the front-wheel drive model the highest available tax credit of all hybrids on the road today.

Fusion Hybrid's class-leading EPA-estimated 41 mpg rating in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, which tops the Toyota Camry Hybrid by 8 mpg in the city and 2 mpg on the highway, helped Fusion garner this significant credit amount, which is based on a vehicle's potential fuel efficiency. Combined, Fusion's fuel savings and tax incentive can help significantly offset the customer for hybrid-electric technology over a conventional gasoline-powered vehicle.

"Hybrids are an important part of our strategy to deliver the best or among the best fuel economy with all of our new products," said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. "We're glad to see our government help promote these advanced, clean, fuel-efficient vehicles to the consumer." The tax credit amounts available for 2009 and 2010 model year hybrid vehicles are as follows:

If Purchased by 1/1-3/31/09

2010 Fusion Hybrid=$3400
2009 Escape Hybrid FWD=$3000
2009 Escape Hybrid 4WD=$1950

If Purchased by 4/1-9/30/09

2010 Fusion Hybrid=$1700
2009 Escape Hybrid FWD=$1500
2009 Escape Hybrid 4WD=$975

If Purchased by 10/1/09-3/31/10

2010 Fusion Hybrid=$850
2009 Escape Hybrid FWD=$750
2009 Escape Hybrid 4WD=$487.50

WHAT MAKES IT SO FRUGAL?
To deliver over 700-plus city miles on a 17.5-gallon single tank of gas, Fusion Hybrid can travel up to 47 miles per hour in pure electric mode, higher than all other hybrids on the road. In addition, the system's electronic Continuously Variable Transmission (e-CVT) allows the hybrid to more seamlessly change from gas to electric mode and back, making hybrid operation virtually imperceptible.

Other hybrid systems contributing to Fusion's economy leadership include:

A smaller, lighter nickel-metal hydride battery, which produces 20% more power than its predecessor
An enhanced electronic throttle control. By reducing airflow on shutdowns, it decreased fueling needs on restarts.
A Regenerative Brake System that recovers and stores nearly 94% of energy normally lost through friction.

The 2010 Fusion Hybrid also debuts Ford's Dual LCD SmartGauge Cluster with EcoGuide, a unique instrument cluster that helps coach drivers on how to optimize the fuel efficiency of their vehicle.

This information is not intended as tax advice. The tax benefit will depend on your individual tax circumstances. The tax credit will begin to phase out for purchases made after 3/31/09. Consult your tax advisor or the IRS to confirm the amount of credit that you can claim. For complete information onthe federal tax credit program or how to file, visit the IRS Web site at http://www.irs.gov or http://www.irs.gov.newsroom/artice/0,,id-157632,00.html. For tax credit comparisons between makes, see http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/tax_hybrids.html

Ford scores marketing coup with thrifty Fusion hybrid

2008-12-29T08:03:00.003-06:00

By Sharon Silke Carty, USA TODAY

DETROIT- The Ford Fusion hybrid will be the most fuel-efficient midsize sedan on the market when it arrives this spring, clocking in at 41 miles per gallon, according to the data given to Ford Motor by the Environmental Protection Agency.

That will make it the second-most fuel-efficient vehicle on the road, according to a ranking published on the EPA's website, behind the small Toyota Prius and ahead of the smaller Honda Civic hybrid.

It's a huge marketing gain for Ford as it attempts to green up its image and improve fuel efficiency across the board. The Fusion hybrid will cost about $27,000 vs. roughly $24,000 for the conventional Fusion model.

"Our overall strategy is to ensure that with every new vehicle we introduce, we're either the best or among the best in fuel economy," says Derrick Kuzak, vice president of global product development for Ford. "Clearly fuel economy is at the top of customer wants."

Even with gas prices hitting an average of $1.66 a gallon, down from the high of $4.11 earlier this summer, fuel economy continues to be a big concern for consumers, says Stephen Berkov, executive director of client strategy at consumer website Edmunds.com. That's because few are convinced low gas prices are here to stay, he says.

"Consumers are completely reconsidering everything about buying a car, in terms of what attributes they're looking for," Berkov says. "Now, the No. 1 factor would be fuel efficiency-that's a paradigm shift. Automotive marketing has always been about performance, and now it's about fuel efficiency."

The Fusion will get 41 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. Hybrids tend to be more efficient in city driving because the electric motors kick in at low speeds.

For one of the U.S. carmakers to have a vehicle that tops its segment in fuel efficiency is a huge marketing coup, Berkov says. The automakers have taken a beating in the public eye this fall as they pleaded their case for a bailout in front of Congress, with many politicians chiding them for not producing green enough cars. Having cars that get class-leading mileage, like the Fusion hybrid, can change those perceptions, Berkov says.

Praveen Cherian,engineering team leader for the Ford Fusion, says the automaker was able to get Fusion's mileage to over 40 miles per gallon by taking a lot of little steps.

One of the biggest fuel savers is the air conditioners. On the Ford Escape hybrid, the air conditioner is powered by the gas engine, so once it's on, fuel savings are minimal. But in the Fusion, the air-conditioner is electric-powered.

The car's battery is also 50 pounds lighter than the Escape hybrid's battery, and there are many small tweaks that improve its aerodynamics.

Motor Trend: Ford F-150 is Top Truck

2008-12-16T15:45:00.001-06:00

Motor Trend: Ford F-150 is top truck
Motor Trend said Tuesday it has voted Ford Motor Co.'s F-150 model truck as its 2009 Truck of the Year, the third time in its production history that the half-ton pickup has taken top billing. In 2008, Toyota Motor Co.'s Tundra pickup truck took the prize. "The stakes were high and the field of contenders was among the best yet for this year's voting," said Angus MacKenzie, editor in chief of Motor Trend, Associated Press reports. "Despite the downturn in the economy, the pickup truck remains the automotive backbone of America, providing a tough, durable workhorse for business and recreational users alike. No matter what shape the American auto industry emerges from the current crisis, the pickup truck will remain a key part of the American automotive landscape."

Sioux Falls Ford Lincoln Mercury Sponsors Pheasant Hunt for Wounded Veterans

2008-12-10T13:47:00.007-06:00

Sioux Falls Ford Lincoln Mercury Sponsors Pheasant Hunt for Wounded Veterans

For many South Dakota residents, pheasant hunting is a time to relax and enjoy the outdoors. However, this year took on special meaning for a group of war Veterans who are still recovering

from their disabilities. After weeks of planning, Sioux Fals Ford Lincoln Mercury and several other Sioux Falls sponsors made the first annual David Feherty's Improvised Explosive Day of Hunting a reality. It was a trip of a lifetime. From the moment the group of Veterans arrived at Southfork in Dallas, SD, they were awestruck. Nolan Ruby, an Operation Iragi Freedom (OIE) Veteran said, "Did you see those flags coming up. I mean just from the entry to everything else, it has just blown me away!" Nolan was referring to the 200 American flags that lined the quarter-mile gravel driveway leading up to the hunting lodge.

Not only was everyone excited about the opportynity to hunt pheasants, but also the chance to be around fellow Veterans who had similar life changing experiences while deployed overseas. Nolan commented, "Anytime I get to spend with Veterans, I'm looking forward to it. If you've been to where we were and seen what we did, anytime you get to meet somebody else, you don't really have to know them. If you can spend some time with tem, and do something they all love to do together, of course you are going to look forward to it. For most hunters, Wednesday's weather was awful- 40 mph wind, cold and rain. However, as David Feherty, the even organizer said, "We're talking about guys who have been in Afghanistan and Iraq and this, this is not bad weather." Tom Carpenter, who is an Elkton, SD resident and SIlver Start recipient durying OIF added, "If I have an opportunity to go out and hunt and that's what these guys want to do rain...wind...I don't care, we'll go. Nolan added, "You still love to get challenged and so when the weather presents a challenge, it presents all the more fun."

For the 20 Veterans, the three-day hunt assisted with their rehabilitation. According to Carpenter, "It has been three and a half years and a lot of my recovery and rehabilitation has been because people have given me opportunities. I look back on the first outing I went on and I was able to see guys who were injured before me and where they were at and that kind of gave me a picture of where I want to be."

For Feherty, who is a PGA Tour Golf Analyst, he didn't have to think twice about making this an annual event for such deserving soldiers. "It's an honor to be amongst these men. What they've done, the extra-ordinary skill they've shown in doing it. It's beyond belief. No matter what I do or anyone else does for them, it could never be enough."

The soldiers who took part in the pheasant hunt were severely wounded while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces and were selected on a volunteer basis.

Ford tops safety awards list for 2009, has 16 winners

2008-11-26T11:09:00.000-06:00

BY SARAH A. WEBSTER FREE PRESS BUSINESS WRITER November 24, 2008
Ford Motor Co. offers the most vehicles in America with top safety ratings, says the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The institute today released its "Top Safety Pick" awards list for 2009, which recognizes vehicles that do the best job of protecting people in front, side and rear crashes, based on the institute's tests.
Ford had more winners than any other automaker -- 16 in all. Honda Motor Co. was second, with 13 winners. General Motors Corp. and Toyota Motor Corp. tied with eight each.
In all, 72 vehicles made the list, double the number of winners a year ago.
Chrysler LLC, based in Auburn Hills, was the only major automaker that did not receive a single top safety pick. The institute said Chrysler could have picked up five awards "if the head restraints were better in the Dodge Avenger and Chrysler Sebring, the Sebring convertible, and the Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country."
The institute said the larger number of Top Safety Picks was largely a consequence of the widespread adoption of electronic stability control, which the government has required for vehicles by the 2012 model year. The feature senses when a driver is about to lose control and helps the vehicle stabilize and avoid skidding or rolling over.
The institute requires the feature to qualify as a top safety pick.
At Ford, officials and employees were celebrating the news of their top safety performance.
"We want to set ourselves apart from the other American companies," Steve Kozak, Ford's safety chief engineer, told the Free Press on Monday. "We're ready and able to compete head-to-head with the Japanese."
Last month, Ford also won accolades from Consumer Reports for the high quality of its vehicles, which the trusted magazine said are now on par with those being produced by Toyota and Honda Motor Co.
So even though Ford is losing money and is part of the Detroit Three contingent seeking $25 billion in aid from Congress, many workers at Ford report feeling good about the company's prospects.
"We're very proud of this," said Kozak, who oversees a team of 167 engineers around the world.
The team engineers a variety of safety technologies, such as Ford's smart Personal Safety System, which deploys air bags based on the weight of passengers and the severity of the crash, among other factors.
"We're doing our part to help Ford succeed," Kozak said. "We just need to get past the downturn in the economy, and we need to get past the perception that the public has about Ford Motor Co."
Ford's winning vehicles included models from all of Ford's brands, which includes Ford, Mercury, Lincoln and Volvo, as well as one Mazda vehicle, the Tribute, which is built on the same platform as the Ford Escape, which also made the list.
Ford's list of winners also includes the F-150 pickup, which is part of the nation's best-selling F-Series lineup.
Honda's 13 winners included the Honda Fit with optional electronic-stability control -- the first microcar, which is smaller than a subcompact, to earn a top safety rating.
GM's winners included the Cadillac CTS, the Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook large SUVs.
In response to Chrysler's poor performance -- which also follows a poor performance in Consumer Reports' quality ratings -- company spokesman Cole Quinnell told the Associated Press that Chrysler vehicles are equipped with a variety of safety features and the institute's results "are just one of the sources of information about a vehicle's crash performance."

Road trip with the 2009 Ford Flex: What a treat!

2008-09-02T10:55:00.004-05:00

It's a bird, it's a plane, no it's not Superman, but the all-new 2009 Ford Flex. Best described as an incredibly roomy "people hauler" with a unique style, the 2009 Ford Flex is Ford's newest entry in the growing crossover SUV market.

Like many new vehicles that are launched today, the 2009 Ford Flex has received its share of hype, but hype either fades fast or grows with increasing momentum, as people experience the vehicle in the real world. Our first test would be a good one. We loaded up four adults and the accompanying luggage, and headed to Milwaukee, Wisconsin for the weekend in Dark Ink Blue/Whitetop, 2009 Ford Flex Limited. This Flex Limited was equipped with AWD, a voice activated 8" color navigation screen that doubles as a rear view camera in reverse, a second row center console refrigerator that kept our bottled water chilled at 34 degrees, four, yes four, sunroofs, a centermounted rear DVD entertainment system, heated front and rear seats, power rear lift gate, and Ford's exclusive SYNC personal communication system, just to name a few.

The first thing we noticed on the interstate at 80 miles per hour was the silence. Conversations could be conducted with hushed tones, wind noise was non-exsistent, and only the faintest tire hum could be detected. It was almost like sitting in a soundproof room getting ready for an annual hearing test. Before reaching Luverne, Minnesota, though all the quiet was starting to counteract the effects of our early morning Starbucks coffee, so we decided to put in some CD's. Upon doing so, we soon realized that this Flex was not equipped with a 6 disc CD changer like you would expect, but with a jukebox that can record up to 2400 songs from your favorite CD's at the touch of a button. No more CD's on the visor or in the center console. What a treat!

As our trip continued on east to Milwaukee, a familiar comment continued to surface. It was all about the room. My right seat passenge, or co-pilot and cool new feature discoverer, is 6'7" and he had at least 5" inches of headroom and his knees didn't touch the dash...a first for him as a right seat passenger. Our wives were in the second row bucket seats commenting that while driving wasn't as fast as flying, they certainly had more roomy comfort than any 1st class airline could ever offer.

Our 1st gas stop was around Austin, Minnesota, where the Flex returned a respectable 22.3 miles per gallon, while averaging around 78 miles per hour. After hitting the road, it began to look dark and ominous, and a few large drops of rain began to fall. My co-pilot had been researching features on the navigation system, when he came across Sirius Travel Link. With a push of a button we suddenly had color weather radar superimposed on our route to Milwaukee. We knew right then, we had at least 50 miles of heavy rain ahead of us. After additional fiddling and research, he realized that not only could we pull up radar, but we could also pull up the gas prices at stations along our route. It appeared that gas prices 2 miles off the interstate seemed to be significantly less than those along the interstate, a fact we would use to our advantage during the remainder of our trip.

We made it to Milwaukee, had a great weekend and made it back safely. The Flex was certainly a hit with the valet at the hotel, and at every rest area we answered the same questions. What is that? Who makes it? And where can I find one to drive? No the Flex isn't Superman, but it sure made us feel that way.

Flex Wins on Cars.COM!

2008-09-02T10:50:00.002-05:00

The Ford Flex took 1st placeon a recent Cars.com summer drive beating out Mazda CX-9, Dodge Journey and Honda Pilot! Click on the following link to see this outstanding review on the all-new Flex... http://blogs.cars.com/kickingtires/2008/08/suburban-dad-va.html

Pet Friendliest Automaker

2008-07-09T10:17:00.002-05:00

DogCatRadio.com- named Ford Motor Company the "Pet Friendliest Automaker." The national radio program that caters exclusively to pet owners reviewed factors like spaciousness, safety, fuel economy, affordability, and "creature comforts" like ease of entry. In the final evaluation they felt that the "Taurus X is the perfect family-sized vehicle," and said that the Taurus X was a true standout in the crowd.

Key Taurus X Attributes Include:

SUV-like cargo capacity and car-like fuel economy, ride and handling
Up to 7-passenger seating
Ford SYNC
Voice Activated Navigation System
AdvanceTrac Electronic Stability Control
Traction Control
All-Wheel Drive
Side-Impact Airbags
Safety Canopy System with Rollover Sensor
Power liftgate and power moonroof
Reverse Sensing System
Securicode Keyless Entry Keypad
Unparalleled comfort and convenience
Effortless entry and exit
Command Seating and Theater Seating

Gas Mileage Tips

2008-06-18T10:14:00.002-05:00

Here are some tips to help you reduce the amount of gas you use. If you are already following these tips, you are probably getting the best gas mileage your car can deliver.

DRIVE MORE EFFICIENTLY

Drive Sensibly
Aggressive driving (speeding, rapid acceleration and braking) wastes gas. It can lower your gas mileage by 33 percent at highway speeds and by 5 percent around town. Sensible driving is also safer for you and others, so you may save more than gas money.

Fuel Economy Benefit: 5-33%
Equivalent Gasoline Savings: $0.20-$1.35/gallon

Observe the Speed Limit
While each vehicle reaches its optimal fuel economy at a different speed (or range of speeds), gas mileage usually decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 mph.
You can assume that each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is like paying an additional $0.30 per gallon for gas.
Observing the speed limit is also safer.

Fuel Economy Benefit: 7-23%
Equivalent Gasoline Savings: $0.29-$0.94/gallon

Remove Excess Weight
Avoid keeping unnecessary items in your vehicle, especially heavy ones. An extra 100 pounds in your vehicle could reduce your MPG by up to 2%. The reduction is based on the percentage of extra weight relative to the vehicle's weight and affects smaller vehicles more than larger ones.

Fuel Economy Benefit: 1-2%/100 lbs
Equivalent Gasoline Savings: $0.04-$0.08/gallon

Avoid Excessive Idling
Idling gets 0 miles per gallon. Cars with larger engines typically waste more gas at idle than do cars with smaller engines.

Use Cruise Control
Using cruise control on the highway helps you maintain a constant speed and, in most cases, will save gas.

Use Overdrive Gears
When you use overdrive gearing, your car's engine speed goes down. This saves gas and reduces engine wear.

Note: Cost savings are based on an assumed fuel price of $4.08/gallon.

Data Sources
Estimates for fuel savings from sensible driving are based on studies and literature reviews performed by Energy and Environmental Analysis, Inc., Washington, DC.
Estimates for the effect of speed on MPG are based on a study by West, B.H., R.N. McGill, J.W. Hodgson, S.S. Sluder, and D.E. Smith, Development and Verification of Light-Duty Modal Emissions and Fuel Consumption Values for Traffic Models, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, March 1999.

KEEPING YOUR CAR IN SHAPE

Keep Your Engine Properly Tuned
Fixing a car that is noticeably out of tune or has failed an emissions test can improve its gas mileage by an average of 4 percent, though results vary based on the kind of repair and how well it is done.
Fixing a serious maintenance problem, such as a faulty oxygen sensor, can improve your mileage by as much as 40 percent.

Fuel Economy Benefit: 4%
Equivalent Gasoline Savings: $0.16/gallon

Check & Replace Air Filters Regularly
Replacing a clogged air filter can improve your car's gas mileage by as much as 10 percent. Your car's air filter keeps impurities from damaging the inside of your engine. Not only will replacing a dirty air filter save gas, it will protect your engine.

Fuel Economy Benefit: up to 10%
Equivalent Gasoline Savings: up to $0.41/gallon

Keep Tires Properly Inflated
You can improve your gas mileage by around 3.3 percent by keeping your tires inflated to the proper pressure. Under-inflated tires can lower gas mileage by 0.4 percent for every 1 psi drop in pressure of all four tires. Properly inflated tires are safer and last longer.

Fuel Economy Benefit: up to 3%
Equivalent Gasoline Savings: up to $0.12/gallon

Use the Recommended Grade of Motor Oil
You can improve your gas mileage by 1-2 percent by using the manufacturer's recommended grade of motor oil. For example, using 10W-30 motor oil in an engine designed to use 5W-30 can lower your gas mileage by 1-2 percent. Using 5W-30 in an engine designed for 5W-20 can lower your gas mileage by 1-1.5 percent. Also, look for motor oil that says "Energy Conserving" on the API performance symbol to be sure it contains friction-reducing additives.

Fuel Economy Benefit: 1-2%
Equivalent Gasoline Savings: $0.04-$0.08/gallon

Note: Cost savings are based on an assumed fuel price of $4.08/gallon.

Data Sources
Estimates for fuel savings from vehicle maintenance, keeping tires properly inflated, and using the recommended grade of motor oil are based on studies and literature reviews performed by Energy and Environmental Analysis, Inc., Washington, DC.
Air filter savings based on Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). 1981. Automobile Fuel Consumption in Actual Traffic Conditions. Paris, France. These tests were performed before the introduction of computer-controlled, fuel-injection engines. DOE is currently studying the fuel economy effects of clogged air filters on more modern engines.

Sioux Falls Ford Lincoln Mercury awarded Corporate Donor of the Year by Southeastern Behavioral Healthcare

2008-06-09T14:35:00.002-05:00

Sioux Falls Ford Lincoln Mercury was awarded Corporate Donor of the Year by Southeastern Behavorial Healthcare. Southeastern Behavorial Healthcare serves the Sioux Falls community with 3 programs. First, a counseling center for the homeless and drug addicted located in downtown Sioux Falls. Second, an in-home conseling service that works with many referals from County Social Services, and third a program called Education and Intergration. Education and Intergration is where children who have mental and/or behavorial problems receive schooling that helps them to achieve a functional level where they can intergrate into the community. The programs helps these children to be able to attend school. Many of these children are placed by school districts as they are unable to provide services for them.

Sioux Falls Ford Lincoln Mercury has been honored to sponsor the Festival of Trees for the past 7 years. Last year we were also very excited to surprise SE Behavorial Health with a vehicle donation. Thank you to SE Behavorial Health for recognizing us as your sponsor of the year, we feel honored and appreicate working with such a great organization in the Sioux Falls community.

Sioux Falls' Most Hot Rides

2008-06-09T14:09:00.003-05:00

Sioux Falls Woman magazine has just named the Ford Flex and Ford Mustang as part of Sioux Falls' Most Hot Rides. The Ford Flex and Ford Mustang were 2 of the 4 vehicles named Sioux Falls' Most Hot Rides, the other two vehicles were the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the BMW 1 Series. Here is what they had to say about the Ford Flex and Ford Mustang.

Ford Flex:

The 2009 Ford Flex is the largest model in Ford's growing line of crossovers. With accommodations for up to seven passengers and a length of 202 inches, the Flex is definitely a family friendly vehicle. While it could be compared to a minivan, the Flex's bold new styling suggests that it is anything but a traditional minivan. While it's prominent edges initially give the Flex a nostalgic persona, racing grooves built consistently into the exterior and other design elements add to the vehicle's refreshing uniqueness. Ford has made comfort a priority, investing in the necessary engineering to make the Flex the quietest in its class. The Flex also features voice-activated communications and a Ford Sync entertainment system - specifically designed for cell phones and digital media players. Developed with Microsoft, Ford Sync can include a hard drive that will hold up to 2300 songs. And an additional feature, families on the go will appreciate the refrigerator that chills more than six or combinations of half-liter and 20-ounce bottles faster than the kitchen refrigerator.

Ford Mustang

Over thirty years ago, the U.S. Congress recognized the Mustang as "living symbols of the historic and pioneer spirit of the West, which continue to contribute to the diversity of life forms within the Nation and enrich the lives of the American people." No wonder Ford chose the name, Mustang, for it's high performance sports car in 1964. And in the face of family-oriented SUV's and other large vehicles-the spirit and speed of the Mustang continues to entice buyers. As a coupe or convertible, the Mustang marries ergonomics with classic taste with its older style gauges, three-spoke steering wheel and dual-hooded dash. The available comfort package features heated front seats and power front passenger seat. Even though this thoroughbred is ready to run and continues to excel in performance, the Mustang has earned both a perfect rating for front-impact protection from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the highest possible for side-impact tests from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Cabela's Reviews the '08 F-450 Super Duty

2008-06-02T18:40:00.002-05:00

Ford is the Official Truck of Cabela's, the largest direct marketer in the world and a leading specialty retailer of hunting, fishing, and outdoor gear. The 2008 Ford Super Duty and F-150 are currently on display at 16 Cabela's stores nationwide. To see Cabela's Field GuideStory review of the '08 F-450 Super Duty, click here.

Cabela's currently opperates 26 destination stores covering, almost 4 million square feet of retail space and drawing more than 45 million people per year. The Dundee store is a top tourist attraction in Michigan.

Cabela's will open two more stores in 2008: Scarborough, Maine and Rapid City, South Dakota. Look for more openings in 2009.

Ford Flex Recognized by Kelly Blue Book's KBB.com as Standout Among "Top Ten" Vehicles Built for Road Trips

2008-05-30T14:23:00.006-05:00

The 2009 Ford Flex was named one of the "Top Ten Best New Road Trip Vehicles" by the editors of Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com.
Kbb.com editors praised Flex's fuel economy, roominess, unique features and options such as multi-panel Vista Roof™ and built-in refrigerator.
Flex arrives in Ford showrooms this summer, with base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starting at $28,995 including destination and delivery.
Ford Flex recognized by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com as standout among 'Top Ten' Vehicles built for road trips

DEARBORN, Mich., May 20, 2008 Editors of Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com today named the 2009 Ford Flex one of its "Top Ten Best New Road Trip Vehicles."
"The functionality, cargo capacity and interior space of the Ford Flex coupled with its high feature set make it a pretty ideal cross-country commuting vehicle," said Micah Muzio, road test editor, Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. "It's the kind of vehicle that you could put lots and lots of miles on in a day and then not feel fatigued in at the end."
In choosing this year's "Top Ten Best New Road Trip Vehicles," Muzio says the kbb.com editors evaluated all tangible and intangible attributes that would enhance any long drive, such as driving enjoyment, passenger comfort, cargo space and fuel economy."We tried to cover the range from the highly aspirational 'money is no object' vehicles to the more realistic options, which may involve a family or a couple heading out for a vacation," he said.
Whether it's a group of people or a person traveling alone, Flex Marketing Manager Catherine Pearce says Ford's newest crossover will provide an enjoyable trip.
"Flex offers unparalleled space, an expansive view and amenities not available anywhere else, and we're delighted that the editors of Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com chose to recognize Flex in their exclusive list," she said.
The all-new Flex, which will arrive at Ford dealerships this summer, already has garnered a lot of attention for its unique box-like design with signature side grooves, all-black greenhouse and distinctive multi-panel Vista Roof.
Inside, Flex provides surprising space and comfort for up to seven, with wide, roomy seats and best-in-class head room and leg room in all three rows. The vehicle creates an environment on par with the most elite modes of transportation, according to Flex Chief Designer Richard Gresens.
"Everything about the new Ford Flex renews my faith in transportation," he said. "Flex reclaims our right as passengers to move in style and comfort."
Muzio says one of the features that impressed the kbb.com editors was Flex's Vista Roof.
"The sunroof makes the vehicle seem even roomier," he said. "Also, each of the roof panels as its own sun visor, so that if a person on the right side wants sun and a person on the left side doesn't, that's something that the passengers can control themselves."
Another favorite of the kbb.com editors is the integrated refrigerator between the second-row seats. The class-exclusive compressor-drive refrigerated console cools up to seven 12-ounce cans from room temperature to 41 degrees approximately 40 percent faster than a standard home refrigerator.

"When you get to your family picnic or wherever and your beverages are still freezing cold, that's just a really great feature to include," he said. "That's the kind of amenity you see in the back of a Maybach, and it's a neat feature to see in an approachably priced vehicle."

In addition to the refrigerator, Flex offers a variety of innovative, class-leading technologies, including Ford SYNC, voice-activated navigation, a Sony premium audio system, EasyFuel capless fuel filler, ambient lighting, a reverse camera system and SIRIUS Travel Link.

"When equipped with voice-activated navigation, SIRIUS Travel Link provides real-time traffic, coast-to-coast weather conditions, movie times, sports scores and fuel price information for more than 120,000 gas stations," said Pearce. "Imagine driving out West and being notified of construction or an accident in time to reroute, or if you're not familiar with the area, finding automatically where the cheapest gas is for a refuel."

Also worth noting: Flex ranks at the top of its class with fuel economy.
"I think people will be surprised," said Gary Boes, Ford chief engineer. "Flex provides 24 mpg on the highway. It's very competitive."

The most important aspect of any road trip is safety. Flex comes standard with six airbags, a Safety Canopy System and Advance Trac with RSC (Roll Stability Control).
"There are certain cars that have that emotional connection for people, and I think that's something we tried to tap into with this list," said Muzio.

Check it out at http://www.fordvehicles.com/flex/

Amazing car projects on the internet

2008-04-21T14:25:00.003-05:00

I just have to show you some crazy stuff I found on the Internet. I am amazed at how creative some people are, and how much time they have on their hands.

First is this car scene blanket. Isn't it the cutest blanket you've ever seen? Sure you may cherish the quilt your Great Aunt Mable made you, but this car baby blanket has to be the cutest.

Now this car is amazing. A Flintstone's car! I am just amazed at the creativity in some people. There is no way I could ever come up with that. But it's on Instructables.com so if you want to make it yourself for Halloween, or any time, you can. If you do make this, leave a comment with pictures and we'll feature you in the blog.

Now everyone at one time or another has heard a man joking about cooking food on the engine of their car. The goal is to have a piping hot meal all ready by the time you drive home from work. I thought this was a myth, until I found an instrucable on it! It seems you can indeed do this. There are pictures and steps with so you should have no trouble following along. Plus there's even a book called "Manifold Destiny" with recipes and miles needed to cook! Again if anyone has done this, let us know!

This a much needed summer time necessity for the car. A backseat organizer. Here's instructions on making one yourself. These are invaluable to keep kids entertained no matter how long or short the trip is.

If you find any other great items, or instructions for the car, leave a comment!

It's Time For Spring Car Care Maintenance

2008-04-21T14:10:00.000-05:00

Spring is the time to finally get out of the house for hours on end,
frolic in new grass and clean the house top to bottom otherwise known as
Spring Cleaning. But did you know that your car also needs Spring
Care? After a long, hard winter you need to check over your vehicle.

1. Wiper blades. Replace old ones or clean newer ones. Wiper blades
should be replaced every 6 months so just make this a habit to replace
them during your spring cleaning.

2. Salt on the roads is very damaging to your car. Give your car a
through wash, even the undercarriage, to stop rust from developing.

3. Now is the time to wax your car so it's easier to clean next time.
Plus while waxing you can find and repair any paint chips.

4. Check your tire pressure. This is the number one gas guzzler that
many people do not know about. If your tires are at the optimum
pressure, then you're wasting gas.

5. Your oil should be changed every 3 to 4 months, which makes the
changing of the seasons a great way to remember to get the oil changed.

6. Get a tune up. Get your vehicle ready for summer driving which are
usually longer trips than winter driving.

7. Check your fluid levels, top off anything so you're ready to go in
any weather.

8. It's time to clean the gunk out of the vehicle that built up over
the winter. Vacuum the inside, clean any stains, take out the mats and
wash them. It's time to let the car shine.

9. Check those brakes too. You may not realize your brakes are subpar
until it's too late. Before the bad rain hits in Spring, get your
breaks checked.

10. Finally, take care of any broken lights or any other problems you
noticed in winter when it was too cold to fix them.