80 MPG Concept Car Heading To Auction

Ever hear of the of a hybrid vehicle capable of delivering about 80mpg? Neither have we. The vehicle was actually developed under a program by the Clinton Administration in 1993. The program involved the three major U.S. automakers and eight Federal Agencies to produce several high-mileage concept cars to be put into production by 2003. Each of the automakers delivered; GM came up with the Precept, Chrysler the ESX II, and Ford developed the Prodigy. Each was a hybrid vehicle capable of delivering about 80 mpg.

The car of course never made it into production and was hardly seen by the general public. Today the car is up for auction online and it is likely that the Prodigy will never be seen again.

Planet Ford 45 wants to know if you would have bought this car if it was ever developed? Remember that at Planet Ford 45 is giving away a Ford Fusion Hybrid! Sign up here.



See the actual car listing here.

Explorer to get big MPG gains

Ford Explorer – the vehicle that defined a segment – has been completely reinvented, raising customers' expectations of sport utility vehicle (SUV) fuel efficiency, safety, technology, capability and quality.

The 2011 Explorer with V6 power is expected to deliver more than 20 percent better fuel economy than the 2010 model, shattering conventional expectations for SUV fuel efficiency. When equipped with the available 2.0-liter EcoBoost™ I-4 engine, Explorer fuel economy is expected to improve by more than 30 percent and exceed the 2010 Honda Pilot and 2010 Toyota Highlander V6.

Driven by the commitment to give customers unsurpassed fuel efficiency with each new vehicle, Ford attacked every detail to transform Explorer with significantly improved fuel economy:

• Twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT)
• Latest Ford EcoBoost engine
• Six-speed automatic transmissions
• Electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) to significantly reduce parasitic power loss
• Intelligent four-wheel drive (4WD)
• Variable-displacement air-conditioning compressor
• Optimized tires for reduced rolling resistance
• Slippery aerodynamics with harmonized front air dam and rear liftgate spoiler

Weight reduction is a key element in improving Explorer fuel efficiency. While adding significant content to the vehicle, engineers were able to reduce total vehicle weight by almost 100 pounds through the use of lighter materials such as an aluminum hood. Explorer weight loss is even more impressive, as the latest versions of Honda Pilot and Toyota 4Runner have added pounds versus previous models.

Explorer's available advanced 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4 delivers the power of a normally aspirated V6 without compromising four-cylinder fuel economy. Aimed at the SUV buyer whose top priority is fuel economy, this turbocharged and intercooled I-4 engine delivers a projected 237 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 250 lb.-ft. of torque from 1,700 through 4,000 rpm. The EcoBoost employs direct injection of gasoline, Ti-VCT, direct-acting mechanical bucket (DAMB) valve lifters and four valves per cylinder.

Explorer's standard powertrain combines front-wheel drive with a 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6 engine, delivering an estimated 290 horsepower and 255 lb.-ft. of torque. Ti-VCT allows individually optimized camshaft timing of valve opening and closing events to improve mechanical efficiency while delivering increased power and reducing part-throttle emissions. Mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, this powerful, flexible and efficient V6 is projected to deliver more than 20 percent better fuel economy versus the previous Explorer V6 model.

Explorer's variable-displacement air-conditioning compressor provides a fuel economy benefit with less drag and smoother transition for improved driveability.

Each Explorer engine is paired with a unique six-speed automatic transmission, combining lowered initial gears for improved off-the-line acceleration and higher gearing for improved efficiency at lower engine rpm when cruising.

Loaded with features, convenience and connectivity
The all-new Explorer is available in three trim series levels – base, XLT and Limited. Each offering presents a robust array of standard features, with a class-leading selection of additional convenience and connectivity options so a buyer can tailor a new Explorer to his or her individual needs and desires.

Standard convenience features include:
• MyFord driver connect technology including 4.2-inch LCD screen
• MyKey™ owner control feature
• Air filtration system
• Media hub
• Easy Fuel® capless fuel filler system
• Cruise control
• Power windows, with one-touch down for driver
• Power door locks with child safety rear door locks
• Tilt/telescoping steering column
• Four 12-volt power points
• Cargo hooks

Explorer XLT includes standard content and adds:
• Automatic headlamps
• Six-speed SelectShift Automatic™
• Heated sideview mirrors with LED signal indicators and security approach lamps
• SecuriCode™ keyless entry keypad
• Reverse sensing system
• Perimeter alarm

Explorer Limited includes all base and XLT content, plus:
• PowerFold® sideview mirrors with driver's side memory
• Ambient lighting
• Adjustable pedals with memory functionality
• Cargo net
• Dual-zone electronic temperature control
• 10-way power driver's seat, with power recline and lumbar
• Electrochromic interior mirror
• Rear view camera
• Remote start system
• 110-volt outlet
• MyFord Touch driver connect technology
• Intelligent Access with push-button start
• Universal garage door opener

The 2011 Explorer will be assembled at Ford's Chicago manufacturing facility. Production begins late this year, and Explorer will be available in dealerships this winter.

Stay tuned to see when Planet Ford 45 will have the Ford Explorer in stock!

2011 Ford Explorer News

Ford debuted the stunning new 2011 Ford Explorer today via the popular networking site Facebook. The 2011 Ford Explorer pictures reveal a body style that hints Land Rover and emerges more car like, less upright box-like SUV. In fact, the frame of the new 2011 Ford Explorer draws major inspiration from the new Land Rover Evoque 2011. The new 2011 Ford Explorer is lighter and more fuel efficient.

Stay tune for more Ford Explorer news.

Visit Planet Ford 45 and ask when the 2011 will be coming to our showroom!

Fiesta Named as One of The Top Ten Small Cars for under $20K

The Ford Fiesta was named as one the top ten small cars for under $20k. The full list from Top Speed blog also included the Ford Focus.

The Ford Fiesta is a fun car to drive because it’s so small and can zip in and out of parking lots, corners, and even your driveway. The motor is connected to a five-speed manual and a six-speed automatic. Let’s not forget that this little car should be able to get around 40 miles per gallon on the highway and 30 in the city. Prices start at $13,320, so this little Fiesta is a great buy.

$1800 plus Commission No Experience Needed Planet Ford Spring – Humble (Planet Ford Spring)

Planet Ford Spring and Humble. Please wait until the below listed interview dates to stop by. Regardless of what the media says about the automobile industry, we're doing great and I'm hiring 10 new salespeople to meet the demands. Having no prior experience in our industry is not a problem.

You will receive training, an $1800 monthly minimum, commission, medical, dental, 401-K and a 5 day work week. Like you, most of our top producers come from fields not related to auto sales and with the proper training have a chance to earn a 6 figure income. Interviews for both locations will be held at the Planet Ford store in Spring Only .

Monday July 26th, between the hours of 10am and 4pm, and Tuesday July 27th, Between the hours of 10am and 1pm. Please wait until the above interview dates to come by and fill out a brief, one page application for a guaranteed interview and get some details about the auto sales business.

Or, if you have any questions, call Jeff Johnson 713-515-9221, or e-mail him at faststarttraining@sbcglobal.net

Interview Location,
20403 - I-45 N.( Louetta Exit )
Spring , Texas 77388

Ford Raptor is a Beast

Ford SVT has built some special vehicles over the years. Supercharged Mustangs, F-150s, and Focus SVT have been the poster children of Ford's SVT division.

But the Raptor F150 SVT changes all that.

The previous Ford SVT vehicles were designed to be perfectly performing pieces of machinery that took on the pavement world however, the F150 Raptor SVT changes all that.

When the Ford's SVT division got their hands on the The Raptor they transformed the vehicle into the toughest production truck ever.

The Raptor is truly an off-road beast built to take a beating in various races sucah as the Baja 1000 desert race. The secret to the Ford Raptor's success is found underneath in the highly-modified suspension. A mild lift is accompanied by the world's first ever internal-triple-bypass shock absorbers on a production vehicle.

Underneath, the Raptor gets a smattering of custom SVT control arms, skidplates and short metal running boards to help keep the truck moving no matter the terrain. Just in case you get stuck, there are big tow loops front and rear, although the rear window is a bit small to be climbing through when stuck in the deep stuff. Most buyers would never think of such things, but for off-roaders it's a consideration.

The most surprising thing for many potential buyers looking at such a hardcore off-road machine is that the Raptor is actually more civil on the road than the regular pickup. In fact, the suspension provides a smoother ride over rough city roads than many high-end luxury cars.

Read More Here

Ford teams up with DUB Magazine

Ford Motor Company is teaming up with automotive lifestyle magazine DUB to roll out a specially customized version of the new 2011 Mustang, introducing the iconic sports car to a new generation of enthusiasts.

The V6 Mustang and will be available in the fall of 2010 and will offer:

• 20-inch TIS wheels with Pirelli performance tires
• Roush front fascia and splitter
• Roush quarter window louvers and windshield banner
• Roush lowering springs
• Coupe, convertible or Glass Roof body style
• Six-speed manual or automatic transmission
• DUB logo embroidered in front headrest and DUB stripe package
• Black interior
• Choice of four exterior colors: Black, Grabber Blue, Race Red or Ingot Silver

Ask your Planet Ford 45 sales team about availability of this one of a kind Mustang.

Click here for full article.

Yahoo! Autos name various Autos as Best Used Cars

Yahoo! Autos have named the 2006 Ford Fusion and the 2005 Ford Five Hundred as two of the best used autos to buy under $10k. Yahoo!

Autos mention that the Ford Five Hundred came standard with antilock brakes, a V-6 engine and an automatic transmission. And the Ford Fusion is a well-equipped sedan that should run around $10,000.Visit Planet Ford 45 Pre Owned and ask why these cars are the best in the used car market!

Click on the link to see full story

Sims get Ford Fiesta for free

Ford and E.A. have once again teamed up to give Sim's users a new virtual car. The Ford Fiesta will be given to users who have bought the Sims 3 2009 edition. EA's Sim's franchise is a highly popular strategic life-simulation computer game.

This is not the first time that Ford has teamed up with EA. A few years back when Ford released their classic Mustang GT it provided users of the game a free download of its car. It proved to be a very popular addition to the game and The Sims 2 fans rushed to get this official, authentic looking car with over one million downloads to date from the official Sims 2 site.

Ford followed this up later in the same year with the release of the Ford Focus in August and the Fusion in November. Both cars were released online in the colors available when buying them from a 'real life' dealership, which only added to the fun and excitement of player's Sims - as the game characters are known - owning one in the game.

This zippy and fun urban Ford Fiesta comes in Lime Squeeze, Blue Flame, Yellow Blaze or Red Candy Metallic. But why just settle for the one online? Visit Planet Ford 45 and get buy the real one for yourself!

Original Article

We Take Care of the Competition!

Looking for a new or used Ford F-150? Houston drivers are finding that Planet Ford 45 is the best of all Ford dealers in the Houston area. So if you’re looking to buy Ford F-150 Houston's Planet Ford has you covered with a great selection of Ford F-150 Houston to choose from.

The new Ford F-350 Trucks offer numerous different options with each New Ford Fleet purchases, such as a all new lockable tool box to handle all your construction needs. Used Ford F350 hold their value like none other. Three unique instrument panel designs give each series an individual appearance.

The smooth flowing interior console gives customers the option of two captain’s chairs with a shifter on the floor in the FX4 and Lariat series. Seating arrangements offered in the new F-series include the basic split seats (40/20/40), making it a little more comfortable for the person in the middle . F-150 comes with three diverse engine choices: a 4.2-liter V-6 engine, a 4.6-liter Triton™ V-8 and the upscale 5.4-liter, three-valve Triton V-8(VCT). The 5.4-liter Triton V-8 engine delivers 320 horsepower and 390 ft.lbs of tourqe. A flex-fuel version can run on E85 biofuel.

So visit Planet Ford 45 and see why most Houston F-150s have the Planet Ford decals in the back!

FORD SELECTS COMPACT POWERFORD SELECTS COMPACT POWER

Ford Motor Company today announced it has selected Compact Power, Inc. (CPI), a subsidiary of LG Chem, to build lithium-ion battery packs for the Ford Focus Electric, which will go on sale in the U.S. in 2011.

CPI, based in Troy, Mich., will begin battery pack assembly for the Ford Focus Electric next year and is finalizing production site selection for the U.S. The lithium-ion cells for the packs will initially be sourced from Korea through LG Chem. LG Chem and CPI will be localizing cell production at their new site in Holland, Mich.

For more detail visit Planet Ford 45.

Spy shots of 2011 Ford F-150 Lariat Limited 6.2

PickupTrucks.com recently released photos of what they think is the 2011 Ford F-150 Lariat. (Full Article)

What’s unique about the Lariat Limited shown here? Highlights include a body-colored front air dam that’s shared with the Ford Harley-Davidson F-150, a six-slat grille borrowed from the XLT F-150 that’s painted to match the rest of the truck and wheels painted with body-colored accents.

Other features include body-colored skullcaps on the mirrors, body-colored door handle bezels with chrome pulls and automatic retractable running boards. The word “Limited” is embossed on the sides of the cargo box.

4 Texters Only

Of all of the bad driving habits we’ve seen over the years such as applying make-up, reading the newspaper or eating, the most dangerous of them all seems to be texting while driving.

Indeed, the practice has become so prevalent–and deadly–that many people and groups have been advocating the banning of the practice.

However Ford will try to make texting safe for drivers.

The Ford Motor Company is updating its SYNC technology to enable text messaging and give drivers more control over how messages are received and sent. For example Ford is giving drivers a “Do Not Disturb” button so they can choose the level of connectivity and communications they want while driving. In addition, Ford is taking the initiative to “lock-out” capabilities that are not relevant to the task of driving while the vehicle is in motion.

Planet Ford 45 wants hard-core text message senders to please do everyone a favor by quitting your texting while driving or go out and buy a properly equipped texting Ford, Lincoln or Mercury vehicle.

Article

Most Amazing Roads

The World's Most Spectacular Roads

1. Milford Road, New Zealand
Not to be confused with the famous Milford Track trekking route, the Milford Road State Highway 94 passes through the Southern Alps of New Zealand’s South Island.
Photo: macronix

2. Stelvio Pass, Italy
48 hairpin turns up to a 2757m (9045ft) pass in the Italian Alps, and Top Gear’s pick for “greatest driving road in the world.”
Photo: Damian Morys Foto

3. Great Ocean Road, Australia
This coastal road in Victoria runs for 241km, between Torquay and Warrnambool. The car-less might consider the Great Ocean Walk as an alternative.
Photo: Stas Kulesh

4. Chalus Road, Iran
Tehran is connected to the northern city of Chalus via this road through the Alborz Mountains. Check this site for more images.
Photo: ninara

5. Cabot Trail, Canada
Wrapping around northern Nova Scotia’s Cape Breton Island, the Cabot Trail is mountainous and windy with near-constant ocean views. I recommend biking it.
Photo: kennymatic

6. I-70 at Glenwood Canyon, Colorado
The Colorado River, of Grand Canyon fame, carved this canyon billions of years ago. The U.S. government built the 12-mile, $490 million interstate route through it, which was only completed in 1992.
Photo: Payton Chung

7. Millau Bridge, France
Southern France’s Millau Bridge is the tallest in the world — taller, actually, than the Eiffel Tower.
Photo: tibchris

8. Karakoram Highway, Pakistan
The “highest paved international road in the world” connects Pakistan with Xinjiang, China. It is currently closed at the Hunza Valley due to a massive landslide.
Photo: Umair Mohsin

9. Mountain road, Snowdonia, Wales
Mountainous northern Wales is traversed by many of these ancient, narrow, stone-walled roads. I’ve experienced the challenge of navigating them at night. With oncoming traffic. Car renters beware.
Photo: Richard0

10. Ice Highway, Canada
Winter means greater accessibility in northern Canada. This frozen road runs up the Northwest Territories.
Photo: madmack66

11. Chapman’s Peak Drive, South Africa
Another great coastal road, this one just 15 miles south of Cape Town.
Photo: Raveesh Vyas

12. Mountain road, central Peru
Most mountain pass roads in Peru qualify as “spectacular.” This one runs north from the Sacred Valley town of Ollantaytambo and is part of the car route to Machu Picchu.
Photo: ThiagoJ

13. Liwa, UAE
Roads through the desert oasis of Liwa, Abu Dhabi, stretch long.
Photo: Luca Assen

14. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
The only route through Glacier National Park was featured in the opening scenes of “The Shining.”
Photo: Colin Gregory Palmer

15. Mývatn, Iceland
Mývatn is a volcanically active region in northern Iceland. This road will take you there.
Photo: Francesco_G

16. Seven Mile Bridge, Florida Keys
U.S. Highway 1 runs for miles over the water, connecting the Florida Keys to the mainland. It includes this long span of bridge.
Photo: milan.boers

17. Gotthard Pass, Switzerland
Traveling north from Italy into Switzerland, you’ll come to Gotthard Pass, which you can cross on either the new, straightforward road, or the old roller coaster above. My money’s on the latter.
Photo: Mikael Miettinen

18. Tichka Pass, Morocco
I recently drove over the 2260m Tichka Pass on my way to Zagora to ride a camel. The pass was cooler. No offense, camel.
Photo: cliffwilliams

19. Pacific Coast Highway, California
This is the only road getting reprised from the original post. It seems to deserve it.
Photo: tibchris

20. Dingle Peninsula, Ireland
The roads of western Ireland are narrow, flanked by green, and sometimes charmed.
Photo: ktylerconk

Original Article

PIMP that Fiesta out!

Ford Motor Company is giving Fiesta customers even more reasons to love their new car with an assortment of personalized options such as custom accessories, body kits, a Fiesta tattoo and graphics.

Ford Custom Accessories offers almost anything an owner would need to put a creative touch on their Fiesta or give the car even more functionality. If an owner is looking to light up the interior, for example, there are several choices. An illuminated gear indicator shift knob comes with a digital gear display, while illuminated door sill plates add special effects with an LED Fiesta logo.

Visit Planet Ford 45 and speak to one of our accessory sales representatives about the new Fiesta accessories.

Original Article

Pandora Radio will be available on Ford Vehicles

According to TPI News, many of the 2010 Ford Cars will carry the Pandora service by the end of the year. The service was announced by Tim Westergren earlier on this week. The service will be offer in many of the new Ford vehicles.

Pandora which is an automated music recommendation service allows users to enter a song or artist that they enjoy and the service responds by playing selections that are musically similar.

With Pandora Radio, drivers and passengers will be able to enjoy a personalized radio station that puts music according to the user tastes.

For more information visit Ford.com or click here for the original article .

Visit Planet Ford 45 and ask any of our sales reps about the new feature.

Great For the Kidos

The Ford Five Hundred and Freestyle are two of best cars for kids in car seat according to Yahoo Autos!

Weather you’re about to welcome your first child into the world or your family became five; the question always comes up when purchasing a new auto of what is the best car to protect my family in the case of an unmentionable accident.


Yahoo! Autos took everything into consideration to determine on its list what the best autos are for your children.


The criteria to determine which car was the best not only included the latest airbags technology but also;

-how deep, flap seat bottom cushion is,

-the placement of the seatbelts,

-LATCH points,

-the angle of the seat back cushion,

-ease of access,

-and availability of automatics locking retractor (ALR) seatbelts.


See these cars at Planet Ford 45 today.

Original Article

Yahoo! Autos gives nod to Ford

Yahoo! Autos named various Ford Vehicles as the highest quality cars of 2010.

The Ford Mustang along with the Taurus sedan and Focus compact car made the list of what Yahoo! Autos considers as the highest quality cars.

J.D. Power compiled its 2010 Initial Quality Study by surveying 82,000 buyers and lessees of new, 2010 model-year vehicles, asking them what problems they've had with their cars. The study was conducted from February to May of this year, and cars were scored based on how many problems were reported per 100 vehicles. The industry average score this year is 109, up slightly from 108 last year.

See all these vehicles at your local Planet Ford 45 store.

For complete article click here.

Houston's 4th of July Events

Eleanor Tinsley Park

500 Allen Parkway, Houston, TX 77002

Houston’s official July 4th celebration hosted by Mayor Annise Parker is an all day festival capped off with a performance by Pat Green. Admission is free if you bring a canned good or $8 otherwise but keep in mind that the party draws a huge crowd--arrive early for a good view of the fireworks.




Miller Outdoor Theater

100 Concert Dr, Houston, TX 77030

In keeping with tradition, the Houston Symphony will have their annual performance of the 1812 Overture--complete with booming cannons—and The Texas Tenors will join in singing patriotic tunes. Admission is free but tickets must be obtained at the box office the day of the event for covered seating.

Houston Museum of Fine Arts

1001 Bissonnet, Houston, TX 77005

It being the first Sunday of the month, the MFAH will not only be open on July 4th but admission is free thanks to Target Free First Sundays. Crafts and performances will occur between 1pm-5pm and a screening of the film “1776” starts at 2:30pm.


Discovery Green Park

1500 McKinney Dr, Houston, TX 77002

Yes, it's true. There is a competition in which dogs leap high into the air off a dock and into the water. It's called Dock Dogs and you can observe this canine sport for yourself on July 4.

Red, Hot and Blue Festival - July 4

Town Green Park and Waterway Square, both located in the The Woodlands Waterway Live music, face painting, strolling performers, games, H-E-B Hot Dog and Watermelon Eating contest, vendor booths, concessions from 6 - 10 p.m. 23 minutes of fireworks; 9:15-9:30 p.m. start Lawn chairs and blankets are welcome, however coolers, outside food and drinks are prohibited. Admission is free and tickets for concessions and games can be purchased at the festival.

Ford To Reduce Debt

A resent article found in The Associated Press stated that Ford Motor Co., the only Detroit automaker to avoid bankruptcy protection, said Wednesday it will reduce its huge debt by another $4 billion as it continues to show signs of financial strength.

The article also said that, "the payments are another sign of confidence that the company's restructuring plan is working."
Ford sales have been up more than 30 percent through May, almost double the 17 percent increase in total U.S. car sales.

Stop by Hillcrest Ford and see why people are buying Ford.

Full Article