Ford Invests $155 Million in Fuel-Efficient Engines; Adds Jobs with Cleveland Plant No. 1 Upgrade

CLEVELAND, Feb. 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — – Ford investing $155 million in Cleveland Engine Plant No. 1 and adding
60 jobs

• Investment supports new fuel-efficient 3.7-liter V-6 engine for 2011 Mustang that delivers an expected best-in-class 30 mpg highway and 305 horsepower
• The 3.7-liter DOHC Ti-VCT V-6 is one of nine new engines and transmissions Ford is introducing in North America for 2011-model-year vehicles
• With Cleveland plant upgrade, Ford already has invested $1.8 billion and added 1,260 jobs in North American powertrain engineering and facilities to support 2011 vehicle launches – with more to come

Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) is investing $155 million and adding 60 jobs at its Cleveland operations to build a new fuel-efficient V-6 engine for the 2011 Mustang, which has expected class-leading highway fuel efficiency of 30 miles per gallon on the highway and 305 horsepower.

The investment and jobs at Ford’s Cleveland Engine Plant No. 1 brings the company’s investment in powertrain engineering and facility upgrades in North America to $1.8 billion to support its 2011 vehicle launches – with more to come. The total number of jobs being added as part of these investments is 1,260. The new Mustang engine is one of nine new or upgraded engines or transmissions for 2011 model Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles.

“Ford is absolutely committed to delivering class-leading fuel efficiency with every new vehicle we introduce, and this investment in Cleveland provides further proof,” said Bill Russo, director of manufacturing for Ford’s powertrain operations.

On sale this spring, the 2011 Ford Mustang delivers 305 high-performance horses for V-6 coupe buyers. The all-aluminum dual-overhead cam (DOHC), 3.7-liter Duratec 24-valve V-6 engine delivers a projected 30 mpg on the highway with a six-speed automatic transmission and fun for drivers on nearly every road.

“Mustang is completely transformed with this new engine,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. “Everything people love about the car is still there and now under the hood is a V-6 engine that uses premium technology to deliver the power, the feel, the fuel efficiency, even the sound of the best sports coupes in the world.”

Also available for the 2011-model year are the Mustang GT – with an all-new 5.0-liter V-8 delivering 412 horsepower and projected unsurpassed highway mileage of 25 mpg – and a no-compromises Shelby GT500 powered by a 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 and 550 horsepower.

The new 3.7-liter V-6 is built at Ford’s Cleveland Engine Plant 1. The 5.0-liter V-8 engine is built at Ford’s Essex Engine Plant in Windsor, Ontario. The 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 is built at Ford’s Romeo, Mich., Engine Plant.

Cleveland Engine Plant 1 Retooled

Cleveland Engine Plant No. 1’s V-6 engine is expected to represent two-thirds of Mustang’s volume this calendar year.

Ford’s $155 million investment there includes $121 million in manufacturing investment at the plant and $34 million for launch and engineering. Sixty new jobs have been added to the plant to support the new engine.

Specifically, the $121 million for the manufacturing facility supports continued investment in developing and re-tooling the plant’s flexible manufacturing systems in the assembly and component (cylinder block, head and crankshaft) areas.

“The Cleveland Engine Plant is not only building fuel-efficient engines for some of our most popular Ford products, it’s becoming a hub for the future of Ford powertrains,” Russo said. “This facility has the flexibility and the expertise to help us meet customer demands for fun, fuel-efficient vehicles, and it represents the future of advanced manufacturing in North America.”

Ford’s investment at Cleveland Engine Plant is supported by Ford’s green partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy. This Ohio plant is one of 11 Ford facilities in the U.S. participating in the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Incentives Program initiated by Congress and implemented by the Obama administration. The program is helping to develop advanced technology vehicles and strengthen American manufacturing across the country. This project is also supported by Ford’s state and local government partners primarily through training funds.

The investment represents the latest in Ford’s ongoing commitment to the Cleveland Engine Plant No. 1. Opened in 1951 as Ford’s first engine plant in Ohio, the facility has produced more than 35 million engines.

In 2004, Ford invested $350 million into the plant for redesign and installation of an all-new assembly line as well as block, crankshaft and cylinder head machining lines. The plant also led the way in 2009 with the introduction of Ford’s first EcoBoost engines, which use gasoline turbocharged direct-injection technology for up to 20 percent better fuel economy, 15 percent fewer CO2 emissions and superior driving performance versus larger displacement engines.

Nine New or Upgraded Powertrains This Year

Ford is introducing nine new or upgraded powertrains in North America for its 2011 model vehicles, representing $1.8 billion worth of investment in engineering and facilities. Among the nine powertrains are:

– 6.2-liter V-8 gasoline engine for the F-Series Super Duty
– 6.7-liter Power Stroke Diesel for the F-Series Super Duty
– 6R140 heavy-duty TorqShift® automatic transmission for the F-Series
Super Duty
– 3.7-liter Ti-VCT V-6 engine for the Mustang
– 5.0-liter Ti-VCT V-8 engine for the Mustang
– Six-speed automatic transmission for the Mustang

The 2011 Mustang is the most technically advanced model yet of America’s favorite sports car. Both V-6 and V-8 models feature Twin Independent Variable Valve Timing (Ti-VCT), double overhead cams, four-valves per-cylinder and free-flowing exhaust systems. Both models are available with six-speed manual or an upgraded 6-speed automatic transmission.

With so much additional horsepower standard, the 2011 Mustang received enhancements to its chassis and suspension to maintain the outstanding driving behavior Mustang owners expect. The addition of new technologies and features, including segment-exclusive electric power assisted steering will mark a new era of driving dynamics for Mustang.

“We’re focusing on every single detail of our engine and transmission lineup to speed class-leading fuel efficiency to our customers as quickly as possible, affordably and in high volumes,” said Barb Samardzich, vice president, Powertrain Development.

The 2011 Mustang is a strong example of Ford’s industry leading fuel economy gains. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, Ford’s combined car and truck fuel economy has improved nearly 20 percent since 2004 – almost double the next closest competitor.

Additionally, Ford has lowered its tailpipe CO2 emissions more than any other automaker. Ford’s fleet-wide average of 434 grams per mile is 37 grams lower than the 2007 total and 25 grams lower than 2008.

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 198,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com. CLEVELAND, Feb. 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — – Ford investing $155 million in Cleveland Engine Plant No. 1 and adding
60 jobs

• Investment supports new fuel-efficient 3.7-liter V-6 engine for 2011 Mustang that delivers an expected best-in-class 30 mpg highway and 305 horsepower
• The 3.7-liter DOHC Ti-VCT V-6 is one of nine new engines and transmissions Ford is introducing in North America for 2011-model-year vehicles
• With Cleveland plant upgrade, Ford already has invested $1.8 billion and added 1,260 jobs in North American powertrain engineering and facilities to support 2011 vehicle launches – with more to come

Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) is investing $155 million and adding 60 jobs at its Cleveland operations to build a new fuel-efficient V-6 engine for the 2011 Mustang, which has expected class-leading highway fuel efficiency of 30 miles per gallon on the highway and 305 horsepower.

The investment and jobs at Ford’s Cleveland Engine Plant No. 1 brings the company’s investment in powertrain engineering and facility upgrades in North America to $1.8 billion to support its 2011 vehicle launches – with more to come. The total number of jobs being added as part of these investments is 1,260. The new Mustang engine is one of nine new or upgraded engines or transmissions for 2011 model Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles.

“Ford is absolutely committed to delivering class-leading fuel efficiency with every new vehicle we introduce, and this investment in Cleveland provides further proof,” said Bill Russo, director of manufacturing for Ford’s powertrain operations.

On sale this spring, the 2011 Ford Mustang delivers 305 high-performance horses for V-6 coupe buyers. The all-aluminum dual-overhead cam (DOHC), 3.7-liter Duratec 24-valve V-6 engine delivers a projected 30 mpg on the highway with a six-speed automatic transmission and fun for drivers on nearly every road.

“Mustang is completely transformed with this new engine,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. “Everything people love about the car is still there and now under the hood is a V-6 engine that uses premium technology to deliver the power, the feel, the fuel efficiency, even the sound of the best sports coupes in the world.”

Also available for the 2011-model year are the Mustang GT – with an all-new 5.0-liter V-8 delivering 412 horsepower and projected unsurpassed highway mileage of 25 mpg – and a no-compromises Shelby GT500 powered by a 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 and 550 horsepower.

The new 3.7-liter V-6 is built at Ford’s Cleveland Engine Plant 1. The 5.0-liter V-8 engine is built at Ford’s Essex Engine Plant in Windsor, Ontario. The 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 is built at Ford’s Romeo, Mich., Engine Plant.

Cleveland Engine Plant 1 Retooled

Cleveland Engine Plant No. 1’s V-6 engine is expected to represent two-thirds of Mustang’s volume this calendar year.

Ford’s $155 million investment there includes $121 million in manufacturing investment at the plant and $34 million for launch and engineering. Sixty new jobs have been added to the plant to support the new engine.

Specifically, the $121 million for the manufacturing facility supports continued investment in developing and re-tooling the plant’s flexible manufacturing systems in the assembly and component (cylinder block, head and crankshaft) areas.

“The Cleveland Engine Plant is not only building fuel-efficient engines for some of our most popular Ford products, it’s becoming a hub for the future of Ford powertrains,” Russo said. “This facility has the flexibility and the expertise to help us meet customer demands for fun, fuel-efficient vehicles, and it represents the future of advanced manufacturing in North America.”

Ford’s investment at Cleveland Engine Plant is supported by Ford’s green partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy. This Ohio plant is one of 11 Ford facilities in the U.S. participating in the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Incentives Program initiated by Congress and implemented by the Obama administration. The program is helping to develop advanced technology vehicles and strengthen American manufacturing across the country. This project is also supported by Ford’s state and local government partners primarily through training funds.

The investment represents the latest in Ford’s ongoing commitment to the Cleveland Engine Plant No. 1. Opened in 1951 as Ford’s first engine plant in Ohio, the facility has produced more than 35 million engines.

In 2004, Ford invested $350 million into the plant for redesign and installation of an all-new assembly line as well as block, crankshaft and cylinder head machining lines. The plant also led the way in 2009 with the introduction of Ford’s first EcoBoost engines, which use gasoline turbocharged direct-injection technology for up to 20 percent better fuel economy, 15 percent fewer CO2 emissions and superior driving performance versus larger displacement engines.

Nine New or Upgraded Powertrains This Year

Ford is introducing nine new or upgraded powertrains in North America for its 2011 model vehicles, representing $1.8 billion worth of investment in engineering and facilities. Among the nine powertrains are:

– 6.2-liter V-8 gasoline engine for the F-Series Super Duty
– 6.7-liter Power Stroke Diesel for the F-Series Super Duty
– 6R140 heavy-duty TorqShift® automatic transmission for the F-Series
Super Duty
– 3.7-liter Ti-VCT V-6 engine for the Mustang
– 5.0-liter Ti-VCT V-8 engine for the Mustang
– Six-speed automatic transmission for the Mustang

The 2011 Mustang is the most technically advanced model yet of America’s favorite sports car. Both V-6 and V-8 models feature Twin Independent Variable Valve Timing (Ti-VCT), double overhead cams, four-valves per-cylinder and free-flowing exhaust systems. Both models are available with six-speed manual or an upgraded 6-speed automatic transmission.

With so much additional horsepower standard, the 2011 Mustang received enhancements to its chassis and suspension to maintain the outstanding driving behavior Mustang owners expect. The addition of new technologies and features, including segment-exclusive electric power assisted steering will mark a new era of driving dynamics for Mustang.

“We’re focusing on every single detail of our engine and transmission lineup to speed class-leading fuel efficiency to our customers as quickly as possible, affordably and in high volumes,” said Barb Samardzich, vice president, Powertrain Development.

The 2011 Mustang is a strong example of Ford’s industry leading fuel economy gains. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, Ford’s combined car and truck fuel economy has improved nearly 20 percent since 2004 – almost double the next closest competitor.

Additionally, Ford has lowered its tailpipe CO2 emissions more than any other automaker. Ford’s fleet-wide average of 434 grams per mile is 37 grams lower than the 2007 total and 25 grams lower than 2008.

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 198,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com.

[Via http://youngmanmaster.wordpress.com]

America: A Rich Tapestry Of Life

By Timothy D. Naegele[1]

What makes a country great?  Its land, its people, its history, its culture, its belief systems or its soul?  All of these, and so much more—including intangibles that most of us never think about.  The United States is that country, unlike any other on the Earth.  There is no need for Americans to flaunt it or be arrogant or condescending or aloof.  Those are not the American way.  Deep beneath the surface, there is love for people everywhere, and an appreciation of each person’s God-given gifts and uniqueness.  In a recent interview, I said:

I believe in this country, and I believe in Americans of all colors, faiths and backgrounds.  The United States is the only true melting pot in the world, with its populace representing a United Nations of the world’s peoples.  Yes, we fight and we even discriminate, but when times are tough—like after 9/11—we come together as one nation, which makes this country so great and special.  Also, all of us or our ancestors came here from somewhere else.  Even the American Indians are descended from those who crossed the Bering Strait—or the “Bering land bridge”—according to anthropologists.[2]

Most of us spend a lifetime dealing with issues and challenges that we believe, rightly or wrongly, are not of our own making; and we react accordingly.  Some are big, but most are small and petty, albeit each seems so important at the time.  For example, last night I bought a new Apple iPod on which I loaded music and other data from my laptop, but I could not find the icon on my desktop this morning.  I called Apple’s technical support line, and was routed to a fellow in India.  He was very nice and courteous, but I told him that I wanted to speak with someone in the United States.  When he said that he would let me talk with his supervisor, I thanked him but said no, and hung up and called Apple again.  The same thing happened, so I tried a third time and a very nice woman came on the line named “Abby.”  I detected a slight accent and asked where she was located, and she said the Philippines.  I thought about hanging up a third time, but decided against it.

Abby was delightful, and really tried to help.  Having been an Apple customer for about 20 years, I know how diligently she tried.  Finally, she routed me to Amy, who turned out to be located in Boise, Idaho.  Amy was delightful too; and we tried everything, but nothing worked because the “Made in China” iPod is apparently defective and needs to be replaced.  In the course of our discussions, I learned that Amy hailed from California, where I was born and raised.  Having had bad experiences with HP recently—where Amy’s husband has worked—in terms of its nonexistent customer support, I was pleased to tell Amy how I had gone through Apple’s ups and downs, but have been generally quite pleased with its telephone support.  It has kept me in the fold and a loyal Apple customer through thick and thin.  Something struck me in the gut though, about companies like Apple farming out calls to India, the Philippines and other countries.  It just seemed very un-patriotic.  It meant the loss of jobs that might have gone to Americans; and it was the first time that I found Apple doing it.

If I had purchased Apple stock at about $12 per share many years ago, I would have made out like a bandit.  If I had bought stock in Ford when it reached a low of $1.01 in November of 2008, which was not too long ago, I would done very well.  Ford has announced plans to hire more American workers; its new cars are great looking; and their quality is apparently superb.[3] Despite the fact that the U.S. may be in the “doldrums” for the rest of this decade, I have been pleased to tell friends and acquaintances that Ford is back, or so it seems, just like Apple came roaring back.  My first four cars were Fords, before I switched to foreign brands—with two Chevrolets thrown in—and it is nice to think about Ford once again and to have an American automaker to be proud of.  Lots of people are avoiding cars from Barack Obama’s “Government Motors” and Chrysler, and I share their views.

Whether it is a computer-related product or a car or almost anything else in life, there is a newfound pride in buying American that is surfacing in this country.  Will it result in harmful protectionism that sent the global economies into a tailspin during the 1930s?  I do not believe so because at the very least, complicated products like cars and computers often have parts that are made abroad.  However, as times get tougher, Americans and others may buy their own country’s products before turning abroad.  This is human nature; or their decisions may be dictated solely by price not sentiment.  Apple’s iPod and its computers are made in China, but even that might change—although it seems unlikely anytime soon.

In April of 2009, I wrote: “America and other nations are in uncharted waters [economically, politically, and in other ways]; and their politicians may face backlashes from disillusioned and angry constituents that are unprecedented in modern times.”[4] Even harder days are ahead, and politicians may experience electoral “bloodbaths.”  These will be years of taking stock, and of being thankful for the little things—for families and helping others.  The limits of hedonism, godless secularism, and paying homage to the false gods of materialism will become self-evident.  We may opt for simpler lives because we have to, and because we come to like and prefer a return to the basics.

When I decided that I wanted to work on Capitol Hill after spending two years in the Army, rather than rejoin a prestigious San Francisco law firm where I could make more money, I tried to get a job with then-U.S. Senator Alan Cranston from my home State of California.  To my surprise and disappointment, his staff was headed by a fellow from New York who apparently wanted to propel Cranston into the foreign policy arena, and was less interested in hiring Californians like me.  Hence, I pounded the Senate corridors and learned that then-U.S. Senator Edward W. Brooke—the first black senator since Reconstruction after the U.S. Civil War, with Barack Obama being the third—was hiring an attorney for the Senate Banking Committee.

I was hired by his chief of staff, Dr. Alton Frye, without ever having met the senator.  I was honored that a white man from California was working for a black man from Massachusetts, but that is how America works.  I went on to write the “Brooke Amendment” relating to public housing; and the national “Housing Allowance” that morphed into the Section 8 housing program, which has helped millions of Americans.  The nicest thing that some people might say about me is that I am “outspoken.”  Ed Brooke put it another way one day, when he said that I lacked “tact.”  Perhaps this is the beauty of being an American.  Each of us can speak our mind on any and every issue, without qualms about doing so.

I criticize President Obama regularly, often in scathing terms, but I almost voted for him.  Even though I disagree with almost everything he does, because I am much more conservative than he will ever be, I would prefer him any day of the week to a leader like Russia’s murderous dictator-for-life Putin.[5] Perhaps I will never forget the way Obama wrote lovingly about his mother and his maternal grandparents, “Toot” and “Gramps,” in his book “Dreams from My Father.”[6] Yet, after working in Washington, D.C. for 21 years nonstop, the one lesson I learned is that government does not work; and the Obama presidency is a shining example of that.  Only the Pentagon—where I spent two years as an Army Officer—and our military are remotely efficient and effective.  The rest of government is a vast “wasteland,”  even though there are good people working at all levels of government.

America is magnificent geographically, whether one thinks about the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Yosemite and other breathtaking parks, or its deserts, mountains, lakes, inland waterways and coastlines.  Its metropolitan areas unparalleled, be it New York City or San Francisco, or thousands of cities and towns in between.  Its people are like a rainbow, with diversity undergirding all.  Its culture is rich because of the many cultures that have been blended into the American experience, which is unique in all the world.  Its belief systems are as varied as there are colors in the rainbow.  And its soul . . . ah yes, its soul . . . embraces the souls of more than 300 million people, woven together into a rich tapestry of life.

When we have decisions to make or feel that we are being called in a particular direction, our strength comes in putting our faith in God within and trusting the guidance we receive through prayer, intuition or love.  As individuals and as a country, we walk by faith not by sight.  Yes, America is great . . . from sea to shining sea—and deep in the Pacific where volcanic peaks of the Hawaiian Islands loom, and in the majestic northernmost reaches of Alaska’s tundra, and in the azure Caribbean too.  God blessed us beyond belief, although we take it for granted much of the time.  Everyone does.  This is human nature.  After all, we are not perfect.  Neither is America.  Only God is.[7]

© 2010, Timothy D. Naegele

[1] Timothy D. Naegele was counsel to the U.S. Senate Banking Committee, and chief of staff to Presidential Medal of Freedom and Congressional Gold Medal recipient and former U.S. Senator Edward W. Brooke (R-Mass), the first black senator since Reconstruction after the U.S. Civil War.  He practices law in Washington, D.C. and Los Angeles with his firm, Timothy D. Naegele & Associates (www.naegele.com).  He has an undergraduate degree in economics from UCLA, as well as two law degrees from the School of Law (Boalt Hall), University of California, Berkeley, and from Georgetown University.  He is a member of the District of Columbia and California bars.  He served as a Captain in the U.S. Army, assigned to the Defense Intelligence Agency at the Pentagon, where he received the Joint Service Commendation Medal.  Mr. Naegele is an Independent politically; and he is listed in Who’s Who in America, Who’s Who in American Law, and Who’s Who in Finance and Business. He has written extensively over the years.  See, e.g., www.naegele.com/whats_new.html#articles

[2] See http://www.philstockworld.com/2009/10/11/greenspan’s-legacy-more-suffering-to-come/ and http://seekingalpha.com/instablog/2951-ilene/31177-interview-with-timothy-d-naegele

[3] See, e.g., http://finance.yahoo.com/q/hp?s=F&a=00&b=3&c=2008&d=01&e=2&f=2010&g=m; see also http://www.ford.com/about-ford/news-announcements/press-releases/press-releases-detail/pr-ford-kicks-off-2010-with-24-31945 and http://online.wsj.com/mdc/public/page/2_3022-autosales.html#autosalesE

[4] See http://www.realclearpolitics.com/news/tms/politics/2009/Apr/08/euphoria_or_the_obama_depression_.html

[5] Compare http://naegeleblog.wordpress.com/2010/01/20/the-end-of-barack-obama/ and http://naegeleblog.wordpress.com/2010/01/19/emp-attack-only-30-million-americans-survive/ and http://naegeleblog.wordpress.com/2010/01/01/barack-obama-america’s-second-emperor/ and http://naegeleblog.wordpress.com/2009/12/26/obama-in-afghanistan-doomed-from-the-start/ and http://naegeleblog.wordpress.com/2009/12/05/is-barack-obama-a-racist/ with http://naegeleblog.wordpress.com/2010/02/09/russias-putin-is-a-killer/

[6] See Obama, “Dreams from My Father” (paperback “Revised Edition,” published by Three Rivers Press, 2004), pp. xii (“[S]he was the kindest, most generous spirit I have ever known, and . . . what is best in me I owe to her”), 89 (“[Toot and Gramps] had sacrificed again and again for me.  They had poured all their lingering hopes into my success.  Never had they given me reason to doubt their love; I doubted if they ever would”), 343 (“I looked out the window, thinking about my mother, Toot, and Gramps, and how grateful I was to them—for who they were. . . .”); see also http://naegeleblog.wordpress.com/2009/12/05/is-barack-obama-a-racist/

[7] Some years ago, I had a law student from UCLA who worked for me as a law clerk doing research and legal writing.  He made a small mistake in a brief, but one that I considered important.  I jumped all over him.  He had worked in Saudi Arabia as an engineer before coming to law school; and he stopped me, and asked if I knew how the Saudis made Oriental rugs.

Some were made by hand and others by machines, he said, but in every case there was an intentional mistake inserted somewhere in each of the rugs.  He asked if I knew why, and I said no.  He said the Saudis believe that only Allah—or God—is perfect; and of course I believe that too.  Since then, when I have jumped all over myself for making mistakes, or thought about criticizing others, I have recalled his story.

[Via http://naegeleblog.wordpress.com]

Is that Gasoline I smell?

“is that Gasoline I smell?” a quote from one of my all time favorite movies, the Crow. Eric Draven, The Crow, pours gasoline all over inside the pawnshop that his fiance’s wedding ring was pawned at. He fills the barrel of his shotgun with the other rings, walks out, and as the owner tells him “…they’re gonna erase your sorry a$$..” The Crow turns around and asks “….is that gasoline I smell?” as he shoots a fiery blast of broken dreams into the shop setting it ablaze.
I found myself asking the very same question while driving the Escape. For my fellow Houstonians, you know its been pretty cold here every other day. So on the few occasions the temperature merits it, I use the heater on defrost. (I cant stand to have hot air blasting in my face, no matter how cold it is. It makes my nose get stuffy.) As I was driving the other day I thought I smelled fuel. I deduced it had to be an outside smell as it eventually went away. My wife and mother-in-law drove the Escape and they too smelled the fuel smell, but blamed it on my awesome Steering wheel cover. I decided to GOOGLE Ford Escape Gas Smell and it appears there have been reports of Ford Escapes having the smell of fuel entering the cabin going as far back as year 2000 models. Mine is a 2010!!! I am hoping this isn’t some sort of design flaw that I just have to accept….to hell with THAT! I have been more observant as of late and noticed I only get the smell of fuel when it is set at least midway on warm and to the Windshield Defrost setting. As soon as I switch to air vents the scent dissipates. I am going to have to call my Champion Ford of Katy representative and tell him I am going to need to get it looked at.

On a side note, I also used to believe it had something to do with the new fancy “NASCAR inspired” capless fuel nozzle.

Some people have had concerns, as I have as well, as to whats to deter fuel theft or contamination without a gas cap or locking gas cap? The sales pitch was with no gas cap to handle at the pump, you can keep the fuel smell off of your hands. Well, alot of good that does when the fuel smell is coming in through your vents!! So the answer to Ford’s poor plannning? An accessory add-on locking gas cap that you can buy and add to your vehicle that was missing it in the first place.

AJD

[Via http://averagejoedriver.wordpress.com]

Car Art Questions?

I received a couple emails referring to the images on the blog.  Generally, I can’t get copies of the Robert Hooper’s prints, but I can get copies of the Mustang interior.

If you are interested let me know…sorry..they aren’t free…but very reasonable.

Thanks for the interest.  Remember, a blog’s life’s blood are comments.  Drop me some.

Thanks for reading.

Tim

Barrett Jackson Auction Photo

[Via http://timsweet.wordpress.com]

Good News: Fiesta featured by MSN Autos as Great Budget Car for Students!

Ford Fiesta at the 2010 Toronto Auto Show

The beautiful, exciting new Ford Fiesta has nearly arrived in Canada. MSN Autos have been reporting from the 2010 Toronto Auto Show, and this is what they had to report about the Ford Fiesta today:

Ford’s critically acclaimed global subcompact is finally here! Set to go on sale this summer in sedan and hatchback forms, the Fiesta offers plenty of zip and grin-inducing handling. It’s well-equipped too with seven standard airbags and stability control. It will also be available with Ford’s sophisticated Sync voice control system and a dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

Prices start at $12,999.

Research a new Ford Fiesta

Thanks for visiting the Team Nault site today. I look forward to meeting and serving you soon.

Sincerely,

John Nault, Team Nault

[Via http://teamnault.wordpress.com]

More thoughts on the next ride...

Back in October, I posted a list of vehicles on the short list to replace the Clubman some point down the road.

Recently, though, I’ve been reassessing. And of the four vehicles, only one remains in contention.

What can I say? A lot’s changed in the past four months.

First, a whole slew of interesting new vehicles has been announced or unveiled since October. And between now and when the time comes to relinquish the Clubman, a whole slew more will make their appearance.

Second, I guess I’ve been coming to terms with not only what I want out of a vehicle, but what I’ll need. In addition to the usual qualities – crisp, communicative steering, sharp handling, better than average fuel economy, somewhere to plug the iPhone in, nothing with a trunk,  etc – I’ve come to accept that I’ll soon have to be able to accommodate two kids, their car seats, strollers and other accessories. Maybe not every day…but Nolan and his car seat still find their way into the Clubman at least once a week as is…and I don’t see that changing when Lola arrives. So suddenly…space is something I have to pay attention to. My goal, basically, is to be able to haul Nolan, Lola, and a jogging stroller to Town Lake. Extra room to bring along a certain drooling yellow lab would be a bonus, but not altogether necessary.

With all that in mind, I scoured what’s out there and what’s coming in the next year or so, and came up with a quite frankly shocking list, dominated by automakers I wouldn’t have even considered a year ago.

So, without further adieu, here’s the short list as it stands today.

MINI Countryman

While I’ve always been open to the idea of MINI building a crossover, I outright hated the concept they showed awhile back. But when they got around to pulling the wraps off the production Countryman, well, I was smitten. MINI not only managed to (in my opinion) nail the styling, they also kept this thing seriously small. Like, the size of a Kia Soul small.

And therein lies the rub.

If I only had to worry about accommodating Nolan, this would be my next car. But with two kids…it’s only five inches longer than the Clubman, and probably in no position to fulfill my two kids + jogging stroller requirement. Alas, I fear the MINI is just too mini.

Ford Focus

The Ford Focus is the one carryover from my October list, due in large part to the fact that Ford hit it out of the park with this redesign. After six years, we’re finally getting the phenomenal Euro-spec Focus. And while this one’s still on the bubble pending road tests and such, if it lives up to the Focus Europe has been enjoying since 2004, it’ll probably catapult to best-in-class status.

My only quibble, again, is size. While the Focus would offer substantially more space than the Clubman, it’s still only about as big as a Mazda3, which again makes the whole jogging stroller thing an issue. If it can fulfill the whole two kids + jogging stroller requirement, though, it’d certainly be the sharpest handling car on the list. So I have my fingers crossed.

One big leg up the Focus – and the other Fords on this list – has over possible challengers is the brilliant MyFord Touch “car connectivity” system. I typically don’t care too much for these command-and-control systems, but the MyFord Touch is so well-executed and so capable that you kind of can’t help but look at it and think “WANT”. Apart from telling you everything about the car and letting you control ambient lighting and HVAC controls, this system can read you any texts messages you receive, let you send canned responses without taking your hands off the wheel, gives you full access to your iPod, and yeah, you get the idea. Rumor has it Ford’s even planning to open up an app store and just…good god…imagine the possibilities there.

Ford Focus Grand C-Max

I’m sure my brothers, Longhorn Offroad friends and others will get a kick out of the fact that there’s actually a minivan on this list, but the Grand C-Max isn’t your typical minivan. For starters, it’s a lot smaller than the rumbling monstrosities that bear the minivan moniker these days. As the name suggests, it’s actually based on the Focus, which puts it closers, size-wise, to the Mazda5. It’s also likely to be the closest of the vehicles listed to the Focus in terms of driving dynamics and fuel economy, albeit with sliding doors, rear captain’s chairs and slightly longer length.

This one is admittedly a long shot – I still can’t see myself driving a minivan – but I’d like to at least take one for a spin before ruling it out altogether.

Ford Escape

I’ve had a handful of encounters with the Ford Escape over the years, and while it’s a surprisingly competent little ute, it’s never something I’d seriously consider owning. But, depending on what shakes out over the next year or so, that may change.

See…Ford is moving pretty aggressively to globalize its product offerings so that one car can be built and sold around the world. The new Fiesta is the first of these so called “One Ford” cars. The new Focus is the second. And sometime in the near future, our dated Escape is going to get the heave-ho and be replaced with the far sleeker Ford Kuga (though the Escape name is likely to stick around).

Unlike our Escape, the Kuga is built on a thoroughly modern platform, actually the same so-called “C-platform” that underpins the Focus. Apart from sharp handling, the common platform pretty much ensures that all of the Focus’ powertrain goodies will probably find their way into the Kuga/Escape.

Ford Edge

The Edge is an outside shot at best, more a grudging admission that I may need to move on to something larger than a compact hatch or crossover than a real contender.

That said, if I end up having to look beyond compacts, I don’t really see anything out there I like as much as the Edge. It’s less a behemoth than most midsize crossovers and SUVs, and thankfully it eschews the whole third row seating thing. It’s also, in my opinion, one of the better looking vehicles in the class, especially with recently unveiled refresh.

Kia Sportage

Back in 2004 or 2005, I was involved in pitching the Kia account. At the time, Kia had managed to attain a certain level of competency, but the cars still felt very much like designer knockoffs, as though they’d come from a parallel universe in which all the cars were just 5% crappier. Even so, there was  sense of momentum, of every new car being a little bit better than the last. I remember thinking…to no small shock…that it probably wouldn’t be too long before Kia up and made a car I’d actually find desirable.

Over the last year or so they’ve been getting really close. I dig the Kia Soul for what it is, think the Forte finally gives Kia a viable competitor to the Honda Civics and Toyota Corollas of the world, and I really respect the new Sorento. The styling, the technology, the quality, the materials…everything has taken a massive leap forward. And with the new Sportage, Kia’s finally done it. They’ve finally made a vehicle I’m willing to put on my short list.

Will it live up? As of this writing it hasn’t even officially debuted, so it’s a bit too early to tell, but the reviews of its sister ship, the new Hyundai Tucson, point to class leader potential with an appropriately firm ride and communicative steering.

[Via http://doogs.wordpress.com]

Toyota Recalls

I know most of if not all of you have heard about Toyota’s recent recalls. The first started by saying it was a problem with the floor mats causing the accelerator pedal to stick. After further research, they decided it was more of a problem with the pedal itself. What they don’t tell us is that a couple years ago, they went to drive by wire. This means as you push the accelerator down, it sends an electrical sensor to the computer which tells the engine how much fuel it should be receiving. Now, I’m not saying this is the problem, but its kinda funny how the recalled vehicles all have this technology. Prior to using “drive by wire,” the accelerator was attached to a cable which was connected to the throttle body. As the cable was stretched, it opened the throttle body wider allowing more fuel into the motor. And now, Toyota is looking into a possible problem with power steering. They say the power steering issue is limited to the Corolla, and there as been no recall announced as of right now. You may be wondering why I’m posting this on a technology blog. The reason being that “drive by wire” is a relatively new technology. I think if they are going to be using this kind of system, they should do extensive testing to make sure their customers are safe. Toyota is currently advertising their mini-van for families. I really don’t want to put my kids in a van that uses the “drive by wire” system if there is going to be major issues with it. And now with the possible power steering issue, there is no way I would purchase a Toyota especially for my family. I want to know what your opinions are on this issue. Would you buy a Toyota after all these issues? I know Ford is up 24% and GM is up 14% in sales since the Toyota issues. So, lets hear you opinions on this issue.

[Via http://latestechnology.wordpress.com]

New issue of HANDBRAKES & HAIRPINS available TOMORROW!

Dear H&H readers,

Tomorrow the next issue of your favourite free source of rallying news and entertainment will be available for download from this site. Issue 120 is jam-packed with the latest news and reports from the world of rallying, including a WRC Rally Sweden review.

In the meantime, here is a sneak peek…

Yours in Rallying,

Evan Rothman
Editor
HANDBRAKES & HAIRPINS

[Via http://handbrakeshairpins.wordpress.com]

Ford Figo Features

To capture your hearts fully new Ford Figo has arrived to add more style and fun to your life style. New Ford Figo has got stunning and smart looks to capture u away. If you want to fly on the road then here is Ford Figo to give you wings so get ready for a powerful drive. None other than smart Ford Figo.

Ford Figo

Wonderful variety of advanced features specially made to gaze at ! This stunning outcome can be titled as most hot and stylish car. Ford Figo – a smart car with smart looks to make you more smart and adds shine to your personna. A car specially designed to suits your present requirements and keeps you ahead of all.

Price efficient Ford Figo has emerged with affordable price falls in the range from 3.5 lacs to 5 lacs. If you want full value of your money then Ford Figo should be your one and only destination. Ford has got special features that gives you comfortable interiors, stunning exteriors, more power, more mileage and better acceleration. Ford Figo is embedded with stylish and powerful features to make it’s position very strong.

Ford Figo

Stylish and sparkling Ford Figo has got a attractive and eye catching exterior. Its interiors are designed to give you utmost comfort and a feel on luxury while on the drive. Your safety and comfort is utmost priority for this car. Ford Figo has fresh interior pack with fresh instrument panel, seats, gear knobs, and trims.

To give you pleasure, safety and comfort nit has most Comfortable interior. Its headlight cluster is big and bold with fog lamps that are fitted in round shape in “U” with such a sparkling look.If you are searching a glimpse of sporty look then Ford Figo is for you only. Ford Figo has attractive curves and flow lines too.

Ford Figo diesel 1399cc variant is supported by powerful ans special 1.4L, Duratorq diesel engine which produces 68bhp of maximum power. Ford Figo caters the need of excellent mileage , pick up and a real smooth drive. Advanced engine has the priority of less fuel consumption. Ford Figo has six variants both Petrol and Diesel, three for diesel and three for petrol, to make your drive more smooth and comfortable and to meet the complications of road.. For better performance Ford Figo is powered by New 1.2 L petrol engine 1172cc which produces 70bhp to 75bhp of maximum power.

Ford Figo

Ford Figo a car that has got sporty and stylish looks, wonderful colours, more power…..what else you want if Ford Figo is there!

[Via http://carlaunchinindia.wordpress.com]

Oasis in the desert

I love Vegas. I love the nostalgia, history, and of course the slots. We usually drive when we go to Las Vegas, which is an awesome drive. Someday I would love to take my cameras and take a bunch of photos of the old hotels, gas stations, and road side establishments that have been long forgotten under the desert sun. I have always appreciated photography of old and run down architecture of all sorts. I like to look at those photos and wonder what it once looked like in its prime. These are a few examples of what I am talking about.

On the way to Las Vegas, there is a building that has been saved from the elements by a couple that was once part of the silver screen. They left Hollywood and found this gem just sitting in the town of Yermo, California. They bought the building and started to refurbish it. They named it “Peggy Sue’s”.

Peggy Sue’s is an original roadside Diner, built in 1954. It sets in the shadow of the Calico Mountains and was built from railroad ties and mortar from the nearby Union Pacific Rail yard.

Peggy Sue and her husband Champ came from Southern California in 1981, reopened the diner in 1987 and attempted to restore and preserve it in its original state. Before moving to the desert in 1981 Champ worked for Knott’s Berry Farm and Peggy Sue worked in the movies. The Diner was the perfect place to display their extensive collection of movie and TV memorabilia.

To compliment the cozy atmosphere of the Diner, they wanted good homemade – food and great 50’s music. Peggy Sue used her grandmothers family recipes, made the old fashioned way. Thanks to the support of Loyal Locals, Trusty Truck Drivers, Mighty Military and Terrific Tourists the Diner prospered and became more popular.

Peggy Sue’s Diner ran out of room, so they decided to expand the Diner into a Real Old Fashioned Tourist Stop. Just like they remembered when they traveled across country as kids. They opened a 50’s style 5 & Dime Store with Curios and Memorabilia, Soda Fountain, Ice Cream Parlor and Pizza Parlor. They even created their own Paradise Park with Waterfalls, Fountains, Ponds, Grass and Trees for their guests to take a stroll.

In 1997 they also reopened an original 1959 roadside diner in Victorville where you can have a slice of pie, and a slice of the past.

You can Visit Peggy Sue’s 1950’s Diner to get the ultimate 1950’s experience by either dropping by or checking out their website.

Their address is:

35654 Yermo Road, Yermo, CA‎ – (760) 254-3370‎

http://www.peggysuesdiner.com/

I love the Gravy fries. Although my heart will say otherwise lol. You can get all the favorites of styles of Coca Cola, such as chocolate, cherry, vanilla, etc. The food is really great. (they have off days too, just like every other restaurant) but what I enjoy is the atmosphere and the experience. I really love the fact that they saved a part of history that could of been erased for ever. If there is a diner or an old building that you feel needs to be saved, check out if there is an organization saving that particular building or you can go to http://www.nps.gov/nhl/

So please when you go to sin city next, try to make a stop at Peggy Sue’s. You will not regret it. It is fun to wear period clothing too. Makes your visit that much more magical.

Here are a bunch of photos of Peggy Sues and other photography of near by buildings that have been forgotten.

Thanks for reading,

Skrach

[Via http://vividlyvintage.com]

Informasi Lowongan IT Staf di FORD Pekanbaru

Info Kerja: Ford Pekanbaru is an automotive company, invite competent and highly motivated people to join us as : Information Technology Staff (IT)

Qualification and Requirements:

1. Male, age below 30 years
2. Bachelor Degree in Computer Science / Information technology
3. Having experiences in IT
4. Having experiences in Troubleshooting Hardware and Software
5. Having experiences in Networking
6. Having capabilities in Microsoft Office
7. Having capabilities in Windows Programming (VISUAL FOXPRO / MS. SQL)
8. Having capabilities in Web Programming (PHP + MYSQL /ASP/Javascript)
9. Good analysis and interpersonal Skill
10. Able to work under pressure
11. Able to work individual and a team

Please send your application enclosed with curriculum vitae an recent photograph to :

• Ford Pekanbaru
• Jl. Riau No. 18 A-E Pekanbaru

Informasi lowongan Kerja/Karir Terbaru Tahun 2010:

• Kumpulan Beasiswa Februari / Maret / April 2010 (Update Terus !!!)
• Kumpulan Lowongan Kerja Februari / Maret / April 2010 (Update Terus !!!)
• Informasi Lowongan Bank Negara Indonesia (Exp: 25 Februari 2010)
• Informasi Lowongan PT. Panasonic Gobel Indonesia (Exp: 28 Februari 2010)
• Informasi Lowongan PT Indomobil Finance Indonesia (Exp: 26 Februari 2010)
• Job Vacancies: PT. Bank Bukopin (Exp: February 23, 2010)
• Informasi Lowongan PT. Samitra (Exp: 13 Maret 2010)
• Informasi Lowongan di Aura Production (26 Februari 2010)
• Informasi Lowongan PT. Klinik DAK (21 Februari 2010)
• Informasi Lowongan PT. Pitibo Sukses Mandiri (13 April 2010)
• Informasi Lowongan PT. Prudential Life – Cab. Jember (13 April 2010)
• Informasi Lowongan di PT. AKU SAYANG INDONESIA KU (PT. ASIK)
• Info Kerja: Lowongan Anggota KPI Pusat 2010-2013
• Info Bursa Karir ITS (BKI 19) Tahun 2010 di Surabaya

[Via http://selong.wordpress.com]

Crash, Bang, Boom

If you have ever played telephone as a kid (or if you read Luann in this mornings comics) you know that it doesn’t take much to get information messed up.   Well, the media has managed to do a bang up job of messing up the information on the Toyota/Lexus recall.

There was a recent article by a New York Times reporter that started with the tragic accident in Southern California that killed a family of four who were in a Lexus.   The article described the incident then went on to talk about the Toyota issue with sticking accelerators.  The two do not go together.  The Lexus issue is a floormat problem (with the exception of the HS Hybrid) but the article would lead one to believe it was caused by a sticking accelerator pedal.

Both Toyota and Lexus are addressing the problems specific to each and are spending a great deal of money to assure all drivers of their vehicles that they are safe.   Toyota has been criticized for not responding with the speed of light in addressing the issue, which in reality is unfair as not only did they have to zero in on what the problem was but also had to come up with a solution that was not just a band aid.

The interesting thing is that now we are seeing recalls from Honda, Ford, and GM on other safety related items.  It will be interesting to see who else has an issue with accelerator pedals since the company that supplies Toyota also supplies other manufacturers.

To me the bigger issue is about who do you trust?  Toyota and Lexus have been building quality vehicles for some time and have set the bar for automobile workmanship (some of you may remember that Ford used to stand for “fix or repair daily”).  Little known until the first gas crisis of 73-74, Toyota has moved to almost number one in car manufacturers (a position they do not gloat about and are even criticized for).  The Lexus motto of doing it right from the start has kept them at the top of luxury vehicles and caused other luxury brands to rethink how they do business.

What people seem to forget is that other manufacturers have waited until being forced by the government to correct faults in their vehicles.  Things like tires that did not hold up, engines that caught on fire, or air bags that deploy with excessive force, all  took the government to step in before any action was taken.  Lexus has from the beginning made corrections to their products as they found a flaw or weakness, not because the government made them, but because it was the right thing to do.  They just spent millions replacing the fuel lines on several of their models.  This was done not because any customer had had an issue, but because the test vehicles that Lexus runs and runs showed a potential problem.

Like Tiger Woods, Toyota is taking flack for not being more open with the public.  Maybe both are spending there time getting their problems corrected rather than feeding the media machine.

Any vehicle can have an issue including a Lexus, after all their motto is the pursuit of perfection, not we are perfect.  So it comes down to- in whom are you going to trust your life and family to?  I just bought my oldest step-daughter a Toyota Yaris and my wife drives a Lexus IS250.  Enough said.

[Via http://drdongrant.wordpress.com]

I would rather die driving a Toyota than buy an American car :)

Well, my 1995 Toyota Corolla is still serving me well-after 15 years! In the mean time I went through 4 American-made cars. 3 had Transmission issues(multiply 3500 x 3 to get value lost by me just to drive them around).  I also own a 2006 Toyota Sienna.

This attack on Toyota is very politically motivated, imo,  and I don’t think Toyota can be killed like that. It is a mountain out-of-a-mole-hill story. There are lots of loyal customers out there like me who would not care for this minor blemish on Toyota’s record.  In the meantime, I see tonnes of ads for GM and Ford cars. You got to put a gun to my head to make me buy another one of those American junks.  It will be either a Toyota or Honda next time.  Hyundai I think might be part of this conspiracy to bring Toyota down. Btw, I hate those tinny-looking Hyundai cars!

For its part, Toyota thought they could get away with this problem. The management got too caulky. Toyota has to drive home the culture of quality into its workforce every now and then. It is an utter failure of management to palm off an issue with accelerator by saying it was caused by floor carpeting! The guy who thought the company could get away with that should be send back to an MBA class and do all the case-studies pertaining to ethics!

My 1995 corolla had NEVER any issues.  But the Sienna had issues with faulty fuel door, melting boot handle, driver seat belt issue and the whole sound system is junk(when you compare it with that of a Chrysler minivan).  So why was my 1995 Corolla better made? I think it was made by people in Japan and then exported out.  There was no globalisation like today in 1995.  Nowadays, with globalisation,  these things are assembled by people in cultures that don’t have quality ingrained in them.  So Toyota should either make all their cars in Japan and export it out OR be extremely strict with the quality at places where these cars are assembled. So in effect, globalisation did have a bad effect on Toyota.

Toyota will make a BIG comeback to its former glory soon and with better quality cars. In the meantime folks, don’t throw away your money on junk American-made cars. Also don’t get me wrong: If I were to buy a bike some day, it would definitely be a Harley! But cars, Americans somehow have to master.

[Via http://nealravindran.wordpress.com]

What is going on in Japan? (HMC, TM, F, GM)

Toyota Prius Crash Test

The Wall Street Journal is reporting that today Honda (HMC) is widening its 2008 airbag recall to include over 826,000 Honda and Acura vehicles.  The vehicles affected are model years 2001-2002, and cross the broad spectrum of vehicles sold by the company.  Add this to the well publicised woes that are currently plaguing Toyota (TM), and one could easily ask the question: What has happened to legendary Japanese reliability?

In the eyes of the general public, the main selling point for both these manufacturers is their reliability.  Ask a Honda or Toyota owner about how long they expect their vehicle to remain on the road, and most likely their answer will run in the hundreds of thousands of miles. High profile recalls, especially involving a critical part of the car, can damage a carmakers reputation for years.  Ask any of the American automakers.  Just from looking at this timeline (from Time magazine), one can see that in the last decade the Big Three Detroiters accounted for 5 of 7 large recalls.  Their reputation for reliability took a hammering during this time, and their sales suffered greatly.  It would not be a stretch to say that this was one of the main reasons for the recently abysmal performance of Ford, GM, and Chrysler.

However, the Japanese recalls present a fantastic opportunity for these three companies to realign themselves with the idea of a quality product.  They have already been making massive strides.  GM brand Cadillac came third in the JD Power Initial Quality Study for 2009, Ford was 9th and Chrysler was 10th.  All companies handsomely beat the market average.  And from crisis comes opportunity. Chrysler has created offers and discounts for people who trade in Toyota vehicles.

So as an investor, is this “crisis” actionable? Long term Toyota shareholders should be furious at the company’s management. Their response to the recall was lackluster at best, damaging at worst, and the stock has lost about 23% of its value.  The drop seems to have stabilized as “knife-catchers” try to time the bottom, but more pain could be ahead during the Senate hearings.  My advise is to hold.  For Honda shareholders, I would actually recommend selling.  The stock has held up well during the Toyotapocalypse, but the valuation is a bit high and this new news could set off a round of fear-induced selling.  Since Ford (F) is the only tradable component of the (Not-So) Big Three, we shall discuss them, and I think they present an interesting opportunity.  Certainly there is a lot of optimism built into the stock, but it holds a lower PE than Honda and Ford is absolutely the strongest of the Americans.  I’m not sure I can overwhelmingly suggest a buy, but it is certainly worth buying on any dips.

-AH

Disclosure: Long HMC, Proud owner of several (non-recalled!) Hondas, Long the market.

[Via http://lucidinvesting.wordpress.com]

Hitch a Ride in the Truck of the Year

Taxi’s are a big part of big city life. Those of us from the Tri-States have been, at some point, to downtown Chicago (or another big city – if not you should really get out more…). Traveling down the sidewalk and looking into the street you probably think “glad I’m not driving in that mess of cars.” Chances are that you have experienced crazy taxi drivers without the comfort of a vehicle protecting you from getting hit. Several Taxi drivers that I’ve witnessed don’t much care for the laws of the road as they almost hit pedestrians as if they think a red light means go.

If you think about going back to Chicago in the near-ish future, you better be prepared to be hit by a whole lot bigger Taxi as the truck of the year – Ford Transit -  has high hopes to make a debut as a Taxi within the next couple of years.

In addition to having more cargo and leg space, the Transit Taxi is working on offering a rear entertainment package for customers that will have a screen displaying stock quotes, weather conditions and cab fare among other things. In addition, it will offer a credit-card swipe pay station for passengers. Last, Ford promises that the taxi will be available with a version of Ford Work Solutions that includes high-speed internet.

Begs the question, is this a cab or a limo?

The Transit Connect Taxi goes into production this year and will available as a 2011 model.

[Via http://rundeautochat.com]

Some Thank You Fun

Danke Schoen!

Thank you everyone who has helped Karen & I apply to be Ford Fiesta agents for the #fiestamovement.  We have not heard anything yet, but according to www.FiestaMovement.com, February 22 will be a big day.

Either way, THANK YOU!  Thanks to those who helped our #fiestamovement campaign and extra thanks for those of you who I do not know but are helping us out anyways!  I was completely left in awe and shock of the overwhelming support from people I do not know.  Also, what’s up with you people enjoying the part where Karen punched me?

That being said, I want to offer you something.  I want YOU to give me challenges.  20 challenges to be exact (because there will be 20 Fiesta teams).  Remember how Liz & I did the blogger scavenger hunt?  Give me a list of 20 things that I have to find in Chicago.

The Rules:

• It must be in biking distance of downtown Chicago.
• You’re not allowed to put me in danger.
• Any purchases needs to be less than $5.
• I must do this over a weekend.

Now to up the stakes, if Karen & I are chosen to be Fiesta agents, then we’ll up the mileage to 100-150 miles.

If anyone is extra motivated, we can raise all stakes by making it into a social media game.  I won’t know what my next clue will be until I find the current.  The catch, the clues are all delivered to me via social media.  Each person will be in charge of a clue.  Once I find it, I will contact the person in charge who will direct me to the next clue. Are you up for it?

It may be a little ambitious, but hey, I’m game.  So leave a comment below what you want for me to find for you in Chicago.

And once again, thank you.

[Via http://phampants.wordpress.com]

Retro Retailer List: Store #1

Today’s post is the first of many for my List of Retro Retailer’s. What is a Retro Retailer? A “Retro Retailer” is either an online store or actual store that sells vintage, retro, dated, evocative, in period style, nostalgic, old world, old-fashioned, out-of-date, passe, or period specific merchandise that is either new, original, or old. If you are looking for retro items to spice up your kitchen, office, or wardrobe, this list will help you in finding the item you are looking for and also few items you can’t live without. (if you have any stores you want to recommend please contact me and let me know you can email me here)

Retro Retailer #1

The First store on my list is a little store called “8Ball“.

8ball is located in the city of Burbank also known as, “The Media Capital of the World”. They have a store front that is located at:

3806 West Magnolia Boulevard

Burbank, California 91505

They are open:
Mon – Fri: 11am – 7pm
Sat: 11am – 6pm
Sun: noon – 5pm

They have a little of everything. They have clothing, items for the kitchen, for the bar, for the bath, for the bedroom, for the living room, for the Office, magnets, Picture Frames/Mirrors, Tiki decor, Hula and Hawaiiana, For the Garden, Lamps and Lighting, and much much more. They have some really awesome items. I am planning to purchase these items my next pay check or maybe when my tax return comes in.

First Item is a set of bar glasses with retro patterns on them:

They are for for sale via their website (http://8ballwebstore.com) For: $24.95

The description reads: Give your drinks a fifties kick with the retro-inspired Boomerang Glass Set. Each set comes with 4 colorful glasses–blue, green, pink, and red–that hold 13 ounces of your favorite beverage. Maybe a milkshake or a Grape Nihi? The Retro Boomerang Glass Set comes attractively boxed for gift giving–or receiving!

The second item I want to buy is the Classic bottle opener:

It is for sale via their website (http://8ballwebstore.com) for: $6.50

The description reads: This classic wall-mounted metal bottle opener evokes instant thoughts of cold beers and soda pops. A must-have for any bar or kitchen! The Classic Metal Opener measures 3″ in width and has enameled lettering.

The final item I plan to get are these awesome Tiki Salt and pepper shakers:

These guys are for sale via their website (http://8ballwebstore.com) for: $17.95

The description reads: Meet Pa’akai (salt) and Nioi (pepper), two quirky tikis that will add a dash of character–and flavor!–to your decor. The 4″ tall ceramic shakers are designed by renowned artist Shag, and the attractive display box is decorated with his signature artwork.

So please drop by their website (http://8ballwebstore.com) or their store (address listed above) and take a peek at all the awesome retro items that make them eligible to be a “Retro Retailer”. Once I buy from them I will do a full review of my experience with them.

Thanks for reading,

Skrach

[Via http://vividlyvintage.wordpress.com]

5.4L V8 Ford F-150 Volant Air Intake Options

There was a time when the Ford F-150 was the king of the road. In fact, the Ford F-Series nameplate ranks number 2 on the all-time best-selling automobiles list, just behind the Toyota Corolla. Although sales have flagged lately, it has more to do with the high-price of gas than any quality issues. These trucks are built Ford Tough, and they certainly live up to that namesake.

If you’re interested in making even bolder moves in your F-150, you need to scrap your restrictive stock air box and upgrade with a high-flow Volant cold air intake. Check out these 2 options for eleventh-generation trucks:

Volant part 19754—Fits the 2004 (New body style) – 2008 Ford F-150 with the 5.4L V8

First and foremost, Volant part 19754 is fully custom engineered for a flawless fit under your hood. Not only do you get a smooth-flow intake tube, but you also get a fresh air box with Volant’s signature polished aluminum lid. All of the clamps are made from marine-grade stainless steel, and the cotton gauze Volant Pro 5 Filter strips out impurities without restricting airflow.

Volant part 197546—Fits the 2004 (New body style) – 2008 Ford F-150 with the 5.4L V8

The only difference between Volant part 197546 and Volant part 19754 is the air filter. With Volant part 197546, you get the cutting-edge PowerCore air filter, a high-flow, low-maintenance upgrade over the classic Pro 5 Filter.

Curious about how this Volant CAI will look under your hood? Check it out:

[Via http://volantcoldairintake.wordpress.com]

Jada Toys Pickups

Finding something worthwhile from Jada Toys is a hit and miss adventure. Their Battle Machines line is mediocre at best there is one or two pieces that are cool. And those I grab.

Their recent assortment of 1:24 diecast cars floated a 2009 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Concept. This car was badass in The Transformers 2 movie and I have waited for it since Jada announced they had the rights to the diecast versions. I finally came across one in the store and bought it.

[Via http://justjdm.wordpress.com]

What to say about Ford

Ford’s been pretty impressive considering what’s been going on in the last 12 months. Ford’s turned out to be the last American automaker standing with no government support with impressive car sales to boot.

Then, I saw this and started to wonder if I should worry about Ford’s long term outlook (disclosure: I do not own the stock). The entire sales increase came from fleet orders and with retail sales actually seeing a 5% decrease from a year ago.

The highlights were much more revealing. Ford and Lincoln saw the biggest increases in sales, while the Mercury brand only saw a 6% increase in sales. Also not sure how true this is, but Ford claims that the projected resale value of its vehicles increased by $1,300. That’s a good positive to go by.

[Via http://curiouscaseofme.wordpress.com]

Toyota & Ford Fixed the Recall - News REVIEWS – Feb 1, 2010

Tylenol recall because of poison pills. 7 Dead. (old news)

Ford Pinto/Pento explodes when hit in the back because a pin punctures gas tank, causing explosions. (old news)

Toyota finally has a solution to the cruise control/braking problems! www.Cars.com (NEWS UPDATE)

Starbucks CEO, Howard Shultz, found his importing opportunity in Italy. He transformed a coffee shop in Seattle to mimic the European cafes. (old news)

Micron got dumped by South Korean company’s microchips. A company from South Korea brought microchips to the US & sold their products for less than it cost them to make them in an attempt to put Micron out of business. Micron sued, won some lawsuits, and in the end, Micron merged with the other company. (old news)

McDonald’s franchises – Did you know the McDonalds in Germany serve beer with their burgers?

Photocopy joint venture. Hewlett Packard invented the laser printer. They started a joint venture with Canon to produce the copier. Canon made the equipment for the product. HP made the intelligence/software for the printers. (old news)

First color laser printer to come out was not a Canon. Caused problems with the joint venture between Canon & HP. (old news)

Bribery is illegal in the United States, but some countries expect bribery in business transactions.

Political disagreements can lead to embargos, like the U.S. embargo against Cuba. Their government controls everything, so the U.S. embargoed against them in an attempt to collapse Cuba’s economy and force a rebirth of their economy. (old news)

[Via http://mnxxreality.com]