Friday, 2 August 2013

This is 2014 Toyota Tundra


The redesigned 2014 Toyota Tundra half-ton full-size pickup truck adds dramatically bold elements of design, refinement, quality and craftsmanship, while building upon Tundra’s well-known reputation for reliability, efficiency and function, making it the most stylish, value-driven and capable Tundra yet.

“Toyota prides itself on listening to its customers and the development of the 2014 American-born Tundra is a perfect example,” said Bill Fay, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division.  “Tundra’s new exterior design and new interior were inspired by customer feedback requesting a more chiseled exterior and refined interior, with improved driver ergonomics, and easy-to-use technology, giving customers more of what they want.”

Tundra has been a quality leader with Toyota’s DNA of Quality, Dependability and Reliability. The industry has recognized Tundra with a myriad of awards over the last 12 years, including the J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study for seven of the past eight years in the Full-Size Pick Up segment. Not resting on its laurels, the 2014 Tundra is redesigned, inside and out, representing the first major change since the 2007 model year. 

The redesigned Tundra continues to be a truck with true American roots that was once again engineered by Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Mich., and its new look created by Calty Design Research centers in Newport Beach, Calif., and Ann Arbor.  Tundra’s V6 and V8 engines are built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama, Inc. in Huntsville, Ala., and transmissions are built at a production facility in North Carolina. Finally, Tundra continues to be assembled exclusively at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, in San Antonio, Texas (TMMTX). 

“With the redesigned 2014 Tundra, Toyota will continue to focus on customer respect and loyalty by providing the highest-quality, best-built, best value pickup in the full-size segment,” said Fay.  “It’s what our customers expect and what they deserve.”   

The 2014 Tundra has a grade strategy consisting of the hard-working SR, volume-leading SR5, the well-appointed Limited, and two premium grades: “Platinum” and the all-new “1794 Edition.” The new 1794 Edition is a tribute to the ranch, founded in 1794, on which the Tundra plant is located in San Antonio.  Tundra is offered in three cab styles, two-door Regular Cab, four-door Double Cab and four-door CrewMax, all available in 4x2 and 4x4.     
 
Chiseled New, Unique Exterior Designs; Distinct Look for Each Grade
Inside and out, each Tundra grade embodies a specific theme through distinct designs that go beyond just badging.   

The Calty design team set out to create a bold and powerful exterior to embody Tundra’s performance capabilities.  The all-new front design integrates the hood and grille for a chiseled and modern industrial image.  Designers increased the size of the front fascia and tightened up the surfaces and character lines to visually punctuate Tundra’s pulling power and wide stance.  The grille has a taller, bolder look, visually connecting the upper intake to the lower bumper.  The front lower bumpers are now a three-piece design, allowing for lower replacement costs.  In addition, the fenders and wheel wells have been squared-off for a wide and sturdy stance. 

A new bed design helps carry the chiseled character lines all the way down the profile, leading to a rugged new bed and tail gate, with an integrated spoiler and “TUNDRA” stamped into the sheet metal, creating a one-piece forged look.  The integrated spoiler in the deck helps with fuel efficiency, while the tail lamps express a tool-like quality to match the appearance of the body.  Like the front bumper, the rear bumper changes from one piece to three, for lower replacement costs.

Tundra offers three cab styles: two-door Regular Cab, four-door Double Cab, and the super-sized four-door CrewMax. Tundra Regular Cab and Double Cab models are offered in standard bed (78.7-inch) or long bed (97.6-inch) configurations, while the CrewMax comes with a 66.7-inch bed. All beds are 22.2-in. deep.

The Tundra's lockable easy-lower-and-lift tailgate lowers slowly with no slam and can easily be removed. Limited Double Cab models come standard with a power sliding rear window. A power vertical sliding rear window is standard on all CrewMax models.

Tundra offers a palette of eight exterior colors including three new colors: Attitude Black Metallic; Sunset Bronze Mica; and Blue Ribbon Metallic.  Popular carryover colors include Radiant Red, Super White, Silver Sky Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Black, and Barcelona Red.
 
A New Premium,Spacious Interior; Each Grade With a Unique Identity


Calty’s design team worked closely with the Product Planners and Tundra engineers to develop a bold new interior focusing on styling differentiation between grades and improving the availability of features most important to truck buyers.  The new interior variations are thematic and cater to a specific customer with a specific budget.  Ergonomic improvements include easier driver access to controls as the reach to the audio and HVAC controls was reduced by 2.6 inches. Large knobs have been retained so they can be operated with or without work gloves.  Overall passenger comfort was improved with a new front and rear (CrewMax) seat design and improved front seat ventilation. In addition, front seats have additional travel, and CrewMax rear seats can now be folded up for additional cargo carrying capability while maintaining a comfortable seating back angle and lowering load the height by more than 11 inches. 

The interior has a rugged, interlocked construction with new instrument panel.  The meters feature 3-D metallic rings and individual gauges grouped in a clear, easy-to-see design with a center-mounted multi-information (LCD) display screen.  The console design holds multiple storage areas for personal items and electronics plus additional padded surfaces and accent stitching in premium grades.  Both Double Cab and CrewMax are available with a bench or bucket seats for the front row.

The interior of the SR5 features a “professional gear” theme, with unique driver and passenger zones, metallic accents and bold contrasting fabric.  Most importantly, the new design uses premium surface treatments such as high granulated paint on the center cluster and unique seat stitching to enhance interior quality and durability.

The Limited grade has an “active premium” image with leather seating surfaces matching soft-touch door and console surfaces, and wood-style interior trims. The Limited will be available with Black, Sand Beige and Graphite leather-trimmed interiors and will have standard dual zone auto HVAC controls.

The Platinum grade has been redesigned for the next generation of personal use truckers.  It features perforated, diamond pleated premium leather seats, door and instrument panel inserts, and chrome seat and console accent badging for an upscale, yet urban feel.  In addition, Platinum uses premium leather never before used on a Toyota truck and comes with many standard amenities, including a 12-speaker touch-screen Entune™ Premium JBL Audio system with navigation, and heated and ventilated front seats.

The 1794 Edition reflects a western lifestyle theme and includes exclusive saddle brown premium leather-trimmed seating with embossed leather and ultra-suede accents.  Matching soft-touch materials also accent the shift console, the front and rear door trim, and the instrument panel.  Like the Platinum, the 1794 Edition includes an array of standard features that includes heated and ventilated front seats, and Entune Premium JBL Audio with navigation.
 
Three Engine Options Remain Among Segment’s Most Capable
Tundra continues to offer three proven powertrains that are among the best in its segment.  A 4.0-liter Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) V6 is standard on Tundra Regular and Double Cab models and produces 270 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 278 foot-pounds of peak torque at 4,400 rpm.  It is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission with uphill/downhill shift logic.  EPA-estimated fuel economy is 16 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city, 20 mpg on the highway and 17 mpg combined.

The available 4.6-liter, DOHC i-Force V8 offers 310 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 327 foot-pounds of peak torque at 3,400rpm.  EPA-estimated mpg fuel economy is 15 mpg city/19 mpg highway/16 mpg combined on 4x2 models and 14 city/18 highway/16 combined on 4x4 models.
 
The Tundra workhorse, and still one of the most capable and advanced engines in the full-size pickup segment, is the 5.7-liter, DOHC i-Force V8.  Tundra’s most popular engine with owners, it generates 381 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 401 foot-pounds of peak torque at 3,600 rpm.  The 5.7-liter is offered in both gasoline and “Flex Fuel” variants. Fuel efficiency on 4x2 models is a competitive 13 mpg in the city,18 mpg on the highway and 16 mpg combined while the 4x4 achieves 13 mpg city/17 mpg highway/15 mpg combined. 

Both V8’s come standard with a six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission.  All Tundra engines feature an aluminum cylinder block and DOHC heads, along with Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) for a broad torque curve and optimized efficiency.
 
New Suspension Enhancements Improve Capability, Handling and Ride
Several enhancements have been implemented on the 2014 Tundra to improve performance.  Shock-absorber valving has been re-tuned to improve ride quality over harsh surfaces.

Steering feel and straight-line stability have been enriched due to steering-system-enhancements.  These reduce the inputs from road variations and imperfections, resulting in improved straight line stability and less driver fatigue.

Patented aerodynamic stabilizer fins are added to the outside surface of the rear tail lamp lens, and the outside mirror bases.  These patented “Aero-Fins” reduce the air turbulence along the sides of the vehicle and also aid in enhancing straight-line stability during normal driving conditions and while towing.

Interior cabin noise is reduced by the advanced design of engine compartment NVH treatments and innovative engineering. Among the many design developments are the installation of a new hood insulator design, a sound-absorbing dash, reduced windshield angles, a non-breathable headliner, door trim pads, and body mounts under the dash and rear panels help to reduce sound transmission from the engine compartment to the vehicle cabin.
 
Tundra's advanced TripleTech frame uses wide, full-boxed rails for the front portion, a reinforced C-channel under the cab and an open C-channel underneath the bed to help maximize strength, ride quality and durability. The double A-arm front suspension uses coil-over spring shock units, while a front-mounted steering rack helps enhance steering feel and response. The rear suspension uses staggered shocks mounted outboard of the springs to improve the shocks' dampening efficiency. Spring rates are tuned to provide a flat vehicle stance when fully loaded.

The Tundra SR and SR5 grades will ride on 18-inch styled steel wheels, while the Limited, Platinum and 1794 Edition will have all-new 20-inch alloy wheels specific to each grade. 
 
All Tundra models come standard with class-leading, four-wheel disc brakes with ventilated rotors - 13.9 inches and 1.26-inches thick - with a segment-most four-piston calipers in front; and 13.6 x 0.71-inch two-piston calipers in the rear.  Part of Toyota’s Star Safety System™, Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA) are standard on all Tundra models. EBD optimizes brake pressure at each wheel for greater control under braking, especially when cornering. BA is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking. If the driver has not pressed firmly enough on the brake pedal to engage ABS, the system supplements the applied braking power until pedal pressure is released.

The standard Automatic Limited-Slip Differential (Auto-LSD) helps provide better acceleration in deep sand or mud and on mixed-friction surfaces. Compared to a conventional mechanical limited slip differential, the Auto-LSD system is much more responsive and has better wear characteristics. The Tundra’s VSC system integrates traction control (TRAC) and enhances traction on or off-road by helping keep the vehicle on its intended course.

Integration of these technologies also provides driver-selectable versatility to tackle just about any road surface or driving condition. In “normal” mode, VSC, TRAC and Auto-LSD all function to help enable traction and control capability. “TRAC Off” and “Auto-LSD” modes activate Auto-LSD to help extricate the Tundra from extreme conditions. The “VSC Off” mode turns off all three of these systems.

Tundra 4x4 models use an on-demand, electronically controlled four-wheel drive system featuring a six-pinion planetary reduction gear set to provide 4x2, 4x4 Hi and 4x4 Lo ranges. The driver selects the drive mode using a dial on the dash.

Towing Capability You Can Believe In
Toyota believes it is important for truck owners to be able to tow with confidence.  This is why Tundra has been compliant with the SAE J2807 towing standard since 2011 and remains the industry’s only full-size truck to adopt the standard.

When equipped with a tow package, Tundra has a maximum tow capacity of 10,400 pounds (4x2 Regular Cab).  A one-piece towing receiver is integrated into the frame prior to bed installation. Tow Package rear springs help provide level full-load rear suspension height and maintain a full range of suspension travel.

The Tow Package also upgrades Tundra’s cooling and electrical systems. Integrated engine and transmission oil coolers help handle the demands of towing under a full load, and a heavy-duty battery and alternator are added, as well. The seven-and four-pin towing hitch connectors sit above the hitch to help avoid damage during high-departure-angle driving.

Electrical upgrades include an under-dash connector pre-wire for a third-party trailer brake controller, both seven- and four-pin trailer brake connectors near the hitch, and an up-rated alternator. On 5.7-liter models, heated, power, outside tow mirrors with turn signal indicators and manual-extend feature are available.

With the Towing Package, the six-speed automatic transmission gains a TOW/HAUL shift mode, selectable by a dedicated switch. The TOW/HAUL mode applies specific logic for adjusting the throttle sensitivity and transmission shift control, favoring and holding lower gears when accelerating or decelerating to help enhance control and safety. Standard for all models, Trailer Sway Control uses the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) to help counteract handling forces applied to the truck in an effort to minimize the impact of trailer sway.
 
2014 Tundra Comes With An Array of Standard Convenience Features
Tundras will feature a number of key standard features, including a standard back-up camera (viewed from the audio display screen), and standard Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming on all grades. 

The Limited grade adds an eight-way power driver seat, standard chrome door handles and outer mirrors, 20-inch alloy wheels and a deck rail system.
 
The Platinum and 1794 Edition come standard with a 10-way power driver’s seat with memory and a four-way power passenger’s seat, both with heat and ventilation, power moonroof (CrewMax only), parking sonar, and Entune Premium JBL Audio with navigation.

All Tundra models have a standard windshield wiper de-icer, front and rear mudguards, power window and door locks, and heated, power, outside mirrors.  

All SR and SR5 grade models come standard with air conditioning, while all Limited, Platinum and 1794 Edition models come with standard dual zone air conditioning with individual temperature settings for driver and front passenger.   Standard High Solar Energy-Absorbing (HSEA) glass helps filter solar heat and most UV light energy entering the vehicle.  This helps reduce occupant sun exposure, helps to keep the interior cooler, and enhances durability of interior materials.

An auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass, and HomeLink universal transceiver is standard on Limited, Platinum and 1794 Edition grades.
 
Standard Next-Generation Entune Audio
All 2014 Tundra models will come standard with the updated next-generation Entune Audio systems, which features several enhancements including a new Entune App Suite with an array of popular apps including new additions such as Yelp and Facebook Places.

Standard on all SR grades is the Entune Audio Multimedia Bundle, which includes a 6.1-inch touchscreen display; AM/FM CD Player with MP3/WMA playback capability; aux jack; USB 2.0 port with increased charging capability and iPod connectivity and control; hands-free phone capability; phone book access and music streaming via Bluetooth wireless technology; and advanced voice recognition. 

All SR5 models will come standard with Entune Audio Plus, which includes the Entune Multimedia Bundle with Hi-Res 7.0-inch touch-screen display; HD Radio with iTunes tagging and HD Traffic and Weather (metro areas only); and SiriusXM satellite radio (90-day trial).
 
Standard on all Limited grades and available on the SR5 grade is the Entune Premium Audio with navigation and The Entune App Suite.  The Entune App Suite includes Bing, iHeartRadio, MovieTickets.com, Open Table, Pandora, Yelp and Facebook Places; real-time info including traffic, weather, fuel prices, sports, and stocks.

Standard on the premium Platinum and 1794 Edition CrewMax models and optional on the Limited grade is the Entune Premium JBL Audio with navigation and Entune App Suite, which includes Entune Premium Audio with JBL speakers and amplifier.
 
Toyota’s STAR Safety and; Segment-First Available Blind Spot Monitor with Cross Traffic Alert
The 2014 Tundra will be the first in its segment to be equipped with a standard backup camera on all grades, and the only full-size pickup with available Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (Limited CrewMax, Platinum and 1794 Edition).

All Tundra models feature the standard Toyota Star Safety System™ that includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), and Smart Stop (SST) brake override technology. 

Smart Stop Technology is designed to automatically reduce engine power when both brake and accelerator pedals are pressed at the same time under certain conditions, helping the driver bring the vehicle to a stop.

Tundra will be equipped with eight standard airbags including front seat-mounted side airbags, and front and rear Roll-sensing Side Curtain Airbags (RSCA) in all models, driver and front outboard passenger airbags with an Advanced Airbag System, and the segments only standard driver and front outboard passenger knee airbags.

Additional safety features include manual headlamp leveling on all grades and standard LED Daytime Running Lights on Platinum and 1794 Edition only.
 
Thoughtful Option Packages
Simplified option packages help to make it easier for customers to find the right Tundra with the equipment they desire.  Tundra SR5 models offer an SR5 Upgrade Package that includes front bucket seats with power driver seat and power lumbar support, floor-mounted urethane shift lever and knob, tilt and telescopic urethane steering wheel, three front cup holders, a front console box, a rear under seat storage tray (Double Cab only), and an alarm system.

A TRD Off-Road Package combines off-road tuned suspension featuring Bilstein gas-charged mono-tube shock absorbers, new 18-inch TRD Off-Road alloy wheels, rear side privacy glass, engine skid plate, front tow hooks on 4x2 models, and TRD unique badging.

A Limited Premium Package, available with all Limited grade Tundras, includes front and rear parking sonar, power windows with driver and front passenger auto up/down; room, foot, and ignition key illuminated entry system; and a glass breakage sensor.

A Tundra Work Truck Package, available on the SR grade, is aimed at commercial truck buyers or customers who need a tough, no-frills truck with exceptional cargo and towing capacity.  The package features heavy-duty vinyl-trimmed seating surfaces, and heavy-duty all-weather flooring.

Additional stand-alone options include a power tilt/slide moonroof with sliding sunshade on Platinum and 1794 Edition models, heated power outside tow mirrors with turn signal indicators and manual-extend feature on all models, a deck rail system with four adjustable tie-down cleats on SR and SR5 grades (standard on Limited, Platinum and 1794), a tow hitch on V8 SR Double Cab and SR5 Double Cab and CrewMax equipped with a 4.6-liter V8, 18-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels with P275/65R18 tires on SR5 Double Cab and CrewMax, and 20-inch chrome clad wheels with P275/55R20 tires on the 1794 Edition.
 
Toyota Warranty
Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items.  Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation.  Toyota dealers have complete details on the limited warranty.  Tundra will also come standard with Toyota Care, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.


The redesigned 2014 Tundra will reach Toyota dealers in September.

Hay Farmer from Northern Michigan Heads Development of New Tundra Pickup

On farms throughout America, pickup trucks are like a member of the family.  Mike Sweers is living the dream of every kid who was raised in farm country: He gets paid to create trucks.  Sweers, who still runs an active hay farm in Northern Michigan, has used his mechanical engineering degree, and life experiences as a farmer, to aid him as the chief engineer of Toyota pickup trucks; especially the development of the new 2014 Tundra full-size pickup.    

“I have a Tundra Double Cab with an eight-foot long bed that I use on the farm all the time,” Sweers said.   “We raise hay, make maple syrup, and we have some dairy cattle that my kids show at fairs.  I use the truck as a truck, which means it’s had a rough life in a short period of time.  Daily hard driving of the truck allowed the farm to become a personal proving ground for my own development research on the new Tundra.”

Development of the new Tundra, which began in the summer of 2010, was the result of great teamwork from TTC engineering, Calty designers and the team members at TMMTX. Sweers and his engineering team worked closely with Calty Design Research, Inc., President Kevin Hunter and his design teams at Toyota’s design centers in Newport Beach, Calif., and Ann Arbor, Mich.  Engineering discussions began early at the sketch level as they strived for a bold exterior design from the very start.  As sketches were modified, the use of computer-aided-design (CAD) enabled the team to check the early designs’ stamping feasibility on the fly, a process that was much quicker than in the past.

Sweers and his team also had a vision where each Tundra grade would be unique.  Research showed customers want their trucks to look different and reflect their individuality. They want people to recognize they are driving something special when they see them in a Tundra Platinum or the new 1794 Edition.
 
The final design resulted in a powerful exterior to embody the Tundra’s performance capabilities.  The front design featured a bold front end with a higher hood line that is integrated into the grille for a chiseled and modern industrial image.

“With the chiseled styling and bold appearance on the front end, it delivers the message of Tundra’s capability and announces that we are a truck to be reckoned with in the industry,” Sweers pronounced. 

Sweers’ own experiences with damaged bumpers on the farm led to the design of three-piece front- and rear-lower bumpers, allowing for lower replacement costs.  Fenders and wheel wells have been squared-off for a wide and sturdy stance.  A new bed and tail gate has an integrated spoiler and “TUNDRA” stamped into the sheet metal, creating a one-piece forged look.  The redesigned tail lamps express a tool-like quality to match the appearance of the body.

“Our goal was to make a truck that is more traditional, more chiseled and emphasizes the outstanding power and performance of the truck,” Sweers said.  “The final product is actually very close to the original sketch.  It is a very polarizing design, and one that I would want!”

Sweers was previously the vice president of interiors at Toyota Technical Center (TTC) in Ann Arbor, which was a big advantage in developing the new, refined interior. Calty worked closely with his engineering team and Product Planners to come up with the design for the new Tundra interior.  Key design elements of the new interior include a new front dash with a center stack that was moved 2.6 inches closer to the driver, putting all controls within easy reach.  The slide and recline of the rear seat on the CrewMax grade now folds up, catering to customer demands for additional interior storage space.  Refinement was a top priority as all Tundra grades were designed with newly structured seats and premium leathers and fabrics for more comfort and eye appeal.

“With the interior, we wanted to go after a refined look and feel to complement the bold exterior design,” Sweers said.  “We really focused on craftsmanship and premium interior materials, looking at colors and grains and textures.

“We also added technologies our customers would appreciate, such as our updated Entune Audio system, with a larger touch screen, a standard backup camera, and the first full-size truck with a Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic alert.” Sweers added.  My goal was to show the true quality of the truck and raise the bar for refinement in the segment.”

Once the design was complete, Sweers recruited the help of 30 of the best and brightest team members from the manufacturing home of the Tundra, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas (TMMTX), in San Antonio.  The 30 team members were brought up to TTC Ann Arbor for two months to help the Product Engineering team hand build the first test units.

“Having the help of the 30 team members from TMMTX was invaluable to the entire project,” Sweers commented.  “It helped us realize what we needed to change from an engineering standpoint, but it was also a benefit to TMMTX as it assisted them in determining what they may need to change on the production line.”

The full-size pickup truck segment is arguably the most competitive in the automotive industry.  To be the best truck in the segment, you have to know what makes the competition so good. Early in the development of the new Tundra, Sweers and his team dissected all competitors’ trucks.  They looked at every nut and bolt.  How the competitors put their trucks together, and how they marketed their trucks.  Sweers and his team looked at their specifications and grade packages, and even their price points.

“Our goal is to make the best truck in the industry,” Sweers pronounced.  “We tried to pay attention to every detail, no matter how big or small, because it’s the details that really help sell a truck. I think from a drivability standpoint, and from where our competitors have gone, I think we may be a little bit better.”

“I feel the new Tundra reflects the future of where trucks are going.  The new styling really emphasizes how bold and capable our truck actually is.  The fact we’ve had the most reliable truck seven of the past eight years according to J.D. Power and Associates, is not by accident. It’s by design.”

If the successful development process of the new 2014 Tundra provides any indication, Toyota’s redesigned full-size pickup will be making a lot of “hay” in the truck market.

Nearly 50 years of Mustang Legend

Ford is launching ‘Mustang Countdown,’ an online video series to throw the spotlight on the legendary sports car and the culture that has formed around it all across the globe, and to continue the celebration leading up to the 50th birthday of the car on April 17, 2014.
Kicking off the series – Where It All Started: The Mustang 1 Concept – turns the clock back to the 1962 debut of the first concept car to wear the pony badge. From there, other episodes lift the lid on Ford’s exhaustive Mustang archives, Mustang toys, custom Mustangs and more all featuring unique and often rare footage, exclusive new interviews and expert insight.
RC Movie Magic: Filming a Chase”, takes a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of filmmaker Zach King’s recent project “The Cliché RC Action Chase.” That short film went viral earlier this year, garnering nearly 3 million views on YouTube. Just like the extensive filmography featuring Ford Mustang over the past 49 years, King’s video puts the Mustang in a prominent role. A pair of radio controlled Ford Mustangs star in an action-packed sequence that features drifting around corners, tight racing and helicopter gunships, all without any computer-generated imagery.
“Fans around the world share a passion for Mustang that embodies the freedom of the open road and the spirit of performance driving,” said Steve Ling, Ford car marketing manager. “The ‘Mustang Countdown’ series is another way in which Ford is honoring that heritage with numerous celebrations over the next year,”
Upcoming episodes will tackle video games, Mustang’s competition heritage custom restomods and more.
More than 9.2 million Ford Mustangs have been sold since the car’s 1964 debut. Mustang has made more than 3,000 appearances on film and TV – including “Bullitt” (1968), “Gone in 60 Seconds” (1974 and 2000), “I Am Legend” (2007) and Drive (2011). In 2014, a modified Mustang will be the hero car in “Need for Speed,” based on the long-running video game series from Electronic Arts.
Click here for the complete ‘Mustang Countdown’ series playlist on the Ford Mustang YouTube channel.
50 years of Mustang
The Ford Mustang is about to become the newest member of a very exclusive club – vehicles in continuous production for 50 years. In its first 49 years of production, Mustang has gained a worldwide base of avid fans, including more than 5 million on Facebook, the most of any vehicle nameplate. Mustang’s unique combination of style, performance and affordability established an entirely new class of sporty cars, and it has led the segment ever since.
Over the past 49 years, of the more than 9.2 million Mustangs produced and sold, most of them have originated close to Ford’s home base in Dearborn, Mich. From the racetrack to the silver screen to the airwaves to the toy box, Mustang has become an enduring part of pop culture.

Tuesday, 30 July 2013

Henry Ford was a visionary ahead of his time

Today marks the 150th anniversary of the birth of Henry Ford, whose innovative ideas revolutionised transportation and brought mobility to the masses. Henry Ford’s enduring impact is being recognised through events and declarations across the United States and around the world.
Celebrations at Ford Motor Company’s Dearborn headquarters today are being complemented by a special proclamation by the state of Michigan declaring this “Henry Ford Day.” In Washington, D.C., hundreds downtown and on Capitol Hill will mark the day enjoying commemorative cupcakes delivered by a food truck – part of a mobile movement Henry Ford would support.
While today’s events mark the day of Henry Ford’s birth, they are just part of a yearlong celebration of the man and his achievements.
Appropriately, given Henry Ford’s global impact, the anniversary of his birth is being commemorated in countries around the world throughout 2013. Some of the events include:
  • Dealers in 21 Asia Pacific markets have launched Ford Heritage month, transforming showrooms into exhibitions on Ford’s rich history
  • Ford of Germany marked the occasion with a series of five road rallies that celebrated Ford’s numerous automotive breakthroughs over the last 110 years
  • More than 4,000 people attended community events held by Ford in Romania
  • In Great Britain, celebrations were capped by the reveal of a restored statue of Henry Ford at the company’s UK Tech Centre
In coming months, celebrations will continue with additional events across the United States, Europe and South America.
Contributions to a better world
Henry Ford’s introduction of the automobile into the mass market transformed agricultural economies in the United States and around the world into prosperous industrial and urban markets. Many historians credit him with creating a middle class in America. His high minimum wage – revolutionary at the time – set a precedent for fair distribution of company wealth that influenced later management practices. For a timeline on Henry Ford, click here.
Henry Ford initially struggled to get Ford Motor Company on solid financial footing, but broke through with the Model T. The iconic vehicle debuted in October 1908, opening a new era in America. More than 15 million Model T’s were built and sold as Ford Motor Company put the nation on wheels.
The innovative spirit of Henry Ford took root in many other forms after the success of the Model T, including:
  • Moving assembly line: In 1913 Henry Ford introduced the first moving assembly line for cars. Within 18 months, the amount of time needed to build a Model T was reduced from 12 ½ man-hours to 1 ½ man-hours, ushering in the modern auto industry
  • $5 work day: To reduce high turnover rates among workers, Henry Ford more than doubled their pay in 1914, from $2.34 for a nine-hour day to $5 for an eight-hour day
  • Vertical integration: To improve quality, Henry Ford sought to own, operate and coordinate all the resources needed to produce complete automobiles. This principle, known as vertical integration, was put into practice in 1927 with the Model A
“What my great-grandfather established, especially his legacy of innovation, continues to inspire our commitment to a strong business, great products and a better world,” said Ford Executive Chairman Bill Ford. “We are putting unexpected levels of technology within reach of millions of people, accelerating the development of new products that customers want and value, and driving growth by creating jobs and bringing the freedom of mobility to the world.”
Spirit of innovation guides Ford today
Henry Ford’s spirit of innovation continues to guide Ford Motor Company today, reflected in a lineup of vehicles as diverse as the F-150 pickup, Mustang sports car and Fusion Hybrid sedan. It lives on in technologies such as Ford SYNC, the company’s in-vehicle infotainment system, and fuel-efficient EcoBoost engines. And it echoes through employees serving customers across six continents.
Henry Ford died on April 7, 1947, at 83. More than 50 years after his death, in 1999, Forbes magazine named him “Businessman of the Century,” and in 2012 a History Channel documentary highlighted him as one of “The Men Who Built America.”
“My great-grandfather’s vision was to improve people’s lives by making cars affordable for the average family,” said Bill Ford. “His vision to build cars that are reasonably priced, reliable and efficient still resonates and defines our vision today.”

Suzuki iV-4 compact SUV concept will be unveiled in Frankfurt

The world premiere of the iV-4 – a concept model heralding a compact SUV from Suzuki – will take place at the 65th IAA Frankfurt Motor Show, which will be held from 10 to 22 September 2013.
Suzuki's introduction of the compact SUV concept iV-4 is an indication of the direction which will be taken with the future model to be added to the company’s renowned SUV line-up.
Developed with a theme – “Grab your field” – the concept model embodies the basic ruggedness of an SUV. The iV-4 is Suzuki’s new concept for a personal compact SUV.
While inheriting certain design features of the Suzuki SUVs, such as the clam-shell shaped bonnet and the front grille divided into five, its overall styling conveys a sense of modernity and innovativeness.

Sunday, 28 July 2013

Sarah Bovy will be the first woman to race the Vantage GT3

Sarah Bovy will be the first woman to race the Vantage GT3 when she takes part in the Spa 24 Hours this weekend.
Bovy will be diving one of two Vantage GT3s entered by Aston Martin Brussels and run by the Belgian Pino Sperlinga’s team GPR in a field of more than 70 cars.  It will be the third time she has competed in the 24 hour race and this time she will drive alongside Michael Schmetz, Pierre Grivegnée and Bert Redant in the number 89 car in the PROAM class. 
Aston Martin Racing is entering the Bilstein-supported Vantage GT3 in the PRO category with drivers Bertrand Baguette, Darren Turner and Jamie Campbell-Walter.
"Of course, I'm proud to wear Aston Martin colours and to achieve something that no other woman has done before,” said Bovey. “I think I can learn a lot from the most experienced drivers in the team and at the same time I know I will find my place and will have the opportunity to prove myself behind the wheel. 

First ever diesel win at Indianapolis

Over the past four decades, Mazda has scored hundreds of race wins at tracksaround the world.  But until today, Mazda did not have a win at what is perhaps the most famous racetrack in the world, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.  That box has now been checked.  In the Grand-Am Brickyard Grand Prix, the #70 Mazda6 SKYACTIV-D Clean Diesel scored the GX class win. 
 
The win was the fifth in a row for the all-new Mazda6, and moves it ahead of Porsche after eight of 12 races in the GX manufacturers championship race.  As has been the case all year long, it was a three car battle between Mazda and Porsche, with both brands leading at times.  Eventual winner Sylvain Tremblay took the lead with 47 laps remaining in the three hour race, and was never headed.
 
The Indy race also was the third and final round of the Grand-Am North America Endurance Championship, the first two rounds having been the Rolex 24 at Daytona and the Sahlen’s Six Hour at Watkins Glen.  The SpeedSource Mazda won the team championship for the GX class.
 
This was only the second year that sports cars have been a featured race at the track most noted for the famed Indianapolis 500.  The track has had wide variety of powertrain configurations and technologies compete, but never before had a diesel engine won at Indy.  The most recent diesel to compete was the Cummins Engine Special, which won the pole for the Indy 500 in 1952. 
  
The SKYACTIV-D Clean Diesel engine in the all-new Mazda6 is a true production-based engine.  The engine is 51 percent stock by parts count, and 63 percent stock by weight.  Mazda chose this path as it is the most honest way to demonstrate the quality, durability, and reliability of Mazda cars.
 
–We made  history today, both for Mazda and for SKYACTIV Clean Diesel Technology.  While this is our fifth win of the season, and fifth in a row, it is by far the biggest win to date.  To win at Indy is every racer’s dream, and that dream came true for Mazda  here today, said John Doonan, Motorsports Director, Mazda North American Operations.
 
We were just trying to stay out of the way of the DP cars, and ended up on the marbles and almost kissed the concrete, but ended up kissing the bricks.  It was not an easy day, but the team remained focused and we came through for the win.  To score the first ever win for a diesel at Indy, in our first year with the program, speaks volumes for Mazda and our team, told owner/driver Sylvain Tremblay.
 
 
2013 Grand-Am GX Point Standings after eight of 12 races:
 
Manufacturers:
1              Porsche                                                     267
2              Mazda                                                       265
Teams:
1      BGB Motorsports (Porsche #38)                    260     
2      SpeedSource (Mazda #00)                            252
3      SpeedSource (Mazda #70)                            250     
Drivers
1              Jim Norman (#38)                                    265     
2              Joel Miller (#00)                                        252
3              Tom Long/Sylvain Tremblay (#70)           250                 
                       

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