Ford Archives

It’s Coming! Ford Unleashes First-Ever Ranger Raptor In Thailand!

The first-ever Ranger Raptor, Ford’s new 4×4 off-road, performance pick-up truck, blasted out from behind its camouflage during a reveal event in Thailand recently, which means it’ll soon be here… and it can’t come soon enough! Just look at it…

The ultimate Ranger is purposefully designed, built and tested to set a benchmark as the only factory-built performance truck across Asia Pacific. Designed by Ford Performance team for the true enthusiast off-roader, Ford Ranger Raptor strengthens Ford’s commitment to deliver “Built Ford Tough” pickup trucks to customers in Asia Pacific.

“We are so excited and proud to unleash this vehicle to the public, driving it really makes you feel like a hero,” said Jamal Hameedi, chief engineer, Ford Performance. “The Ford Performance team is excited to extend the Raptor name from our flagship off-road performance F-150 to Ranger. Just like the F-150 Raptor, the Ranger Raptor builds upon the core capability of the range of vehicles it comes from and carries the unmistakable Ford Performance DNA appearance.”

Tuned for all Terrain…

Ranger Raptor comes with a Terrain Management System (TMS) offering six modes for various driving experiences, which can be selected via a dedicated five-button switch located on the steering wheel. Each mode has been calibrated to offer the best possible combination of technologies working in unison to tackle the chosen terrain or driving style with aplomb. These include:

On-road modes

– Normal mode – Emphasising comfort, fuel economy and driveability

– Sport mode – Responsive for spirited on-road driving. This means fast, crisp gear shifts at higher engine speeds to aid throttle response. The mapping reacts to increased demand inputs from the driver by holding gears longer and downshifting more aggressively.

Off-road modes

– Grass/Gravel/Snow mode – Designed to inspire safe and confident driving on off-road slippery and uneven surfaces. This is done through smoother gear shifts and second-gear starts, minimizing the probability of wheel slip.

– Mud/Sand mode – Vehicle responsiveness is tuned for optimum traction and momentum in deep, deformable surfaces like loose sand and mud. This is achieved by maintaining lower gears with high torque.

– Rock mode – Used specifically for low-speed rocky terrain where smooth controllability is key.

– Baja mode – Vehicle responsiveness is tuned for high-speed off-road performance, just like drivers need in the famous Baja Desert Rally. In this mode, vehicle systems like Traction Control are pared back in terms of intervention to allow spirited off-road driving without fighting the vehicle’s on-board systems. Gear selection is optimized for maximum performance, and the mapping will hold gears longer and downshift more aggressively.

Power to Move You…

The Ranger Raptor powertrain features cutting edge technology to offer more power and torque, better fuel economy, less weight and with off-road specific calibrations for engine, transmission, driveline, steering, brakes and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system.

In a revolutionary move to deliver incredible performance and responsiveness, a 10-Speed transmission is combined with a new 2.0-liter Bi-Turbo diesel engine in the Ranger Raptor to deliver a maximum of 213PS (157kW) of power and a whopping 500Nm of torque.

Ford’s comprehensive Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system is also there to help in difficult cornering and braking situations. The impressive technology suite includes Trailer Sway Control (TSC), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Hill Descent Control (HDC) and Load Adaptive Control (LAC).

We’ll keep you posted on the impending Malaysian launch of the Raptor, coming soon! – CW.

For the full Press Release, click here: Press Release_Ford Unleashes First Ever Ranger Raptor_EN

Ford Ranger Raptor Photo Gallery…

At a glance…

Setting a new benchmark in off-road pickup capability, the Ranger Raptor has been designed to combine Ford Performance DNA with Ranger’s renowned toughness and engineering capability
Ranger Raptor includes standard front and rear Fox Racing Shox shock absorbers to help travel at high speeds off-road and includes increased ride height, wider track and improved approach and departure angles that ensure extreme off-road capability and stability
Innovative all-new Watt’s linkage rear suspension with coilover rear springs helps ensure rear axle lateral stability off-road while also improving ride and handling
New powertrain combination of a 2.0-liter Bi-Turbo diesel engine and 10-speed transimission has proven durability through extensive testing, offering smooth torque and power through independent turbos and closer gear ratios over a wider overall span
Ranger Raptor has been tested in the world’s toughest conditions to ensure an unrivalled off-road package is offered to astonish and excite drivers

SDAC Ford Announces CNY Sales Promo & New Ranger Editions

Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC), the sole distributor of Ford in Malaysia is ushering in the Lunar New Year by extending its prosperity sales promotion exclusively for the powerful, economical and innovative Ford Ranger XLT.

For starters, new Ford Ranger XLT owners can drive home the feature-packed truck with extended ZERO maintenance costs for five years or 100,000km (T&C apply). Valid from now until February 28, 2018, the consumer-first promotion includes rebates up to RM5,000 shopping vouchers and exclusive, limited-edition angpow packets.

SDAC is also offering more rebates and goodies for other Ford models. New owners of the Ford Ranger WildTrak, for one, will receive an extra-special New Year gift of up to RM5,000 in rebates, shopping vouchers and exclusive angpow packets. This makes the WildTrak an even sweeter buy for those looking for power, performance, safety and leading-edge technology in a truly iconic model.

A Ford Focus or Fiesta, on the other hand, offers rebates up to RM23,000, three years free maintenance and five years warranty.

“As we usher in the year with more luck, longevity, happiness and prosperity, these exclusive deals are ideal value for existing owners looking for an opportunity to upgrade or new customers looking to be proud Ford owners,” said Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz, Managing Director, Sime Darby Auto Connexion.

“Alongside our year-round commitment to offer a great ownership experience, these deals also show our appreciation to loyal Ford customers for their support over the years,” he continued.

To ensure a safer, smoother journey home during the festive holidays, SDAC is encouraging Ford owners to take advantage of a free, 27-point vehicle inspection by Ford-certified technicians using only original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts. There are also discounts of up to 20 percent on selected parts, including brake, timing belt and lubricant package; and a 10 percent labour discount on selected packages.

Customers who spend more than RM350 on a single valid Tax Invoice will also receive Free Ford merchandise available only at authorised dealers. The promotion is available nationwide from December 18, 2017 until February 17, 2018 while stocks last.

SDAC are also welcoming the new year with brand new limited editions for its rugged Ranger line up! The Ranger WildTrak, which now comes in Meteor Grey and the FX4 in Cool White, are currently available at authorised dealers nationwide.

These exclusive new colour options are in addition to the previous Cool White and Pride Orange for the Ranger WildTrak and Meteor Grey for the FX4.

The tougher and more efficient 3.2L Ranger WildTrak 4×4 in Meteor Grey retains a blend of unmatched smart technologies in safety and is complemented by a functional interior as well as best-in-class water-wading, towing and payload capabilities.

It exudes a power-packed 200 PS at 3,000 rpm and 470 Nm of torque to tackle any terrain with ease. The WildTrak also features the latest SYNC™3 hands-free infotainment system that comes with an eight-inch touchscreen to bring the power of Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto to your Ford.

The 2.2L Ranger FX4 in Cool White features trims and accessories in matte black colour for the functional rollbar and 18 inch wheels, conveying a sense of power and performance. With 160 PS on tap and 385 Nm torque, the four-cylinder turbo diesel Duratorq engine and 6-speed automatic transmission. The Ranger FX4 can haul a 1-tonne capacity load.

“Our customers in Malaysia are familiar with the iconic Ford Ranger, the best-in-class, award-winning pickup truck known for its raw unrivaled capabilities, advanced smart technologies and safety features that is built tough but still stylish in appearance,” reiterated Syed Muzri. “The Ranger WildTrak and FX4 built on this foundation with new colours we think you will love to start the year with.”

The Ford Ranger WildTrak in Meteor Grey is priced at RM141,588 OTR without insurance while the Ford Ranger FX4 in Cool White is priced at RM121,888 OTR without insurance. Prices are inclusive of GST. For more information on these special edition Ford Rangers, visit SDAC’s newly-launched multilingual website (Bahasa Malaysia and Simplified Chinese) at www.sdacford.com.my.

Ford and SDAC celebrate Christmas with patients

Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC), the sole distributor of Ford vehicles in Malaysia, provided some much needed holiday cheer this Christmas season. Members of SDAC visited the children’s ward of Hospital Wanita dan Kanak-kanak Sabah, Likas, Kota Kinabalu.

The group provided kids with books, bags and stationary in support of Kupikupifm DJs Cheer to Patient CSR Programme. This is part of Ford’s charitable initiative to help give back to local communities and provide the less fortunate with the means to progress further.

Staff and patients at the hospital were regaled with Christmas carols at the foyer area. Though brief, the event helped lighten the somber mood that is usually associated with patients in such facilities. It helped provide a glimmer of hope to those who had lost theirs.

The Blue Oval is heavily invested in programmes such as these to help community building and sustainable development for future generations. Hospital Wanita dan Kanak-kanak Sabah is a small hospital focusing on obstetrics, gynaecology and paediatrics and is associated with the general hospital, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

Red Edition Focus RS to be launched soon

Ford has decided to introduce a limited edition Focus RS just in time for the holidays. Called the RS Red Edition, with just 300 examples salted for production, will feature a Race Red exterior, grey brake calipers, black cast alloy wheels as well as contrasting black roof, door mirrors and rear spoiler.

Like the special edition RS, this one also gets a front mechanical Quaife limited-slip differential (LSD). This clever tech provides the car with better traction to the wheel that needs it most. As such, during hard cornering, the Focus RS will be able to deliver impressive levels of grip and stability.

“The Focus RS Edition represents accessible performance at its finest”, said Andy Barratt, chairman and managing director, Ford of Britain. “As RS production nears its end, we wanted to celebrate with a limited run of cars for those who want to stand out as an RS fan.”

The car is available to order now at Ford dealerships but its production will only begin in February of 2018. As such, this jolly red Focus RS won’t be rolling out in time for this Christmas but we are sure many enthusiasts wouldn’t mind the wait.

In general, the latest Focus RS is a technological masterpiece, it crams sports car-like performance into a compact package. Powered by a 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine, all-wheel-drive and a Limited Slip Differential, it’s a hot hatch that can give certain supercars a run for their money.

Ford’s survey says parents are hypocrites

“Do as I say, not as I do” is a saying used to describe parents’s driving habits. According to Ford’s survey, it appers that parents, not their teenage/young adult, children tend to fiddle about with their mobile phones will driving. Despite the notion that millennials suffer from short attention spans, Ford’s statistics prove the contrary to be true.

Ford’s recent study conducted of drivers across Asia Pacific, would suggest that parents are the most distracted group of drivers on the road. Apparently, 43% of them reported to have experienced a distracted driving incident compared to 40% of people without children. Fathers were more likely to use their phones will driving.

The most popular excuses given for using a phone while driving are, taking calls from friends or family (62%), being stuck in traffic or at a traffic light (59 percent), and answering work calls or emails (46%). About 24% of millennials and 17% of parents have admitted to using their phones while driving because ‘they were bored’.

This survey was conducted to help understand distracted driving behaviour and attitudes. And it coincides with the expansion of DSFL, Ford’s flagship corporate social responsibility programme. Through this, the automaker conducts various campaigns that benefit drivers and society as a whole.

“Ford is committed to helping raise awareness of road safety and educating drivers on safe driving practices,” said Cynthia Williams, director, Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering, Ford Asia Pacific. “Phones are a great distraction normally, but behind the wheel they can be life threatening.”

The World Health Organisation (WHO) data states that over 1.25 million people die each year from car crashes and between 20 to 50 million more of them suffer non-fatal injuries. Drivers who use their phones will driving are about four times more likely to be involved in a crash than those who don’t.

In Asia Pacific, 54% of drivers say that they try to refrain from using their phones while driving, but end up doing so anyway. Many believe that bad weather or the presence of a police officer are the only deterrents from using a phone while driving.

These numbers are nothing short of alarming, considering that how many driving licenses are issued each year. If nothing is done to curb the practise, our roads are going to become extremely unsafe overtime.

Ford Focus RS is experiencing engine problems

Ford’s hothatch, the Focus RS, may not be as perfect as we hoped it would. According to a recent article by Autocar UK, several owners if the latest car have reported seeing white smoke from the exhaust. This is a result of coolant being burnt during cold running. A remedy has yet to be established but Ford has stated that a fix will be rolled out to all customers, even ones not affected by the issue.

Several affected owners have already had their engines replaced with ones that are of the latest specification. Whether or not Ford resorts to swapping all these engines with newer ones, remains to be seen but there are several theories as to why the problem occurred in the first place. Some are saying that the issue could be related to the engine head gasket failing to maintain a seal, while others say it’s something worse.

The problem could also be due to the engine block itself getting distorted over the course of several heat cycles. It may not be as tolerant as Ford had hoped with coping with the demands of enthusiastic owners. Whatever the case, Ford could be looking at a major campaign to rectify the issue and help pacify disgruntled owners who yet to even to break-in their new cars.

Coincidentally, the Ford Mustang uses the same engine as the Focus RS but may not inherit the problem. Autocar UK‘s article states that the material used for the Mustang’s block differs from that used for the Focus. Stay tuned and we will keep you updated as the story unfolds.

Source: Autocar UK

Classic Mustangs live on as timepieces

Die-hard Mustang fans will be happy to know that a watch company called REC Watches, has a new product line that involves building timepieces out of classic Mustangs. But it isn’t what you think, the company isn’t going about ripping apart valuable cars. Instead they acquire components from cars headed to the scrapheap.

This interesting idea is the brainchild of Christian Mygh and Jonathan Kamstrup, who together scour salvage yards around the world for Mustang models. Each car’s components can be used to create hundreds of unique timepieces, costing from $1,495 (RM6,087).

Based in Denmark, REC Watches is dedicated to this concept, and is willing to create an entirely new watch from parts given to them by customers. Once such person is World Champion Drifter Vaughn Gittin Jr., has had a timepiece specially made out of carbon fibre bodywork taken from his 700‑horsepower World Drift Series Ford Mustang RTR.

“Most people would just see a pile of metal, a ghost of a Mustang. We see something completely different – the soul of a car and a story that needs to be told,” said co-founder Mygh. “I’m not cutting up Mustangs. I’m bringing Mustangs that are beyond repair back to life as a watch.”

Behind every uniquely crafted timepiece, is a special story, which is the case here. REC Watches painstakingly trace the history of each vehicle that is used, speak with previous owners as well as collect stories and images from the car’s past life. All this information is summarized and presented to buyers and fans alike through a short video.

Each watch’s design incorporates the donor vehicle’s identification number, year of production and classic Mustang design cues. These designs include a power dial designed to look like a fuel gauge, watch hands that look like speedometer needles, date and dials that are a homage to the Mustang’s classic dashboard.

A rare 1966 Raven Black Mustang model was used to create the company’s limited edition P51-04 collection of 250 watches. Expect more of such timepieces from REC Watches because there a plethora of Mustangs at various scrapheaps waiting to be crushed. Atleast here, they get to live on as a timeless wristwatch.

Strong demand for 1980s cars at CCA

This year’s Classic Car Auctions in the UK has recorded a very good turn out. About 80% of the vehicles that rolled onto the auction block were sold, which roughly equates to £6.1 million (RM3.4 million) worth of cars. This result is a testament to the demand for classic cars and evidently CCA’s best year yet.

Though demand across the board was quite strong, the ones that garnered the most interest were the 1980s Porches. The most expensive, a 1989 911 Carrera Supersport (SSE) sold for £71,500 (RM391,162), which was more than £11,000 (RM60,179) over the estimate.

“What a fantastic way to end the year!” said Gary Dunne, Classic Car Auctions’ sales manager. “Demand for ‘everyman’ classics remains incredibly strong and we’re delighted to have achieved some great prices for our vendors.”

He later added, We’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has been involved in one of our sales in 2017 and we look forward to seeing you all again next year.”

Later on, a 1985 911 3.2 SSE Targa was sold for a similar figure at £68,750 (RM376,118). These were two of nine Porsches successfully sold during the auction. and besides Porsche, several Fast Fords caused some waves at the auction as well, with 10 of them successfully sold.

A concours condition 1987 Sierra RS Cosworth sold for £37,950 (RM207,617), a 1986 Escort RS Turbo Series I which fetched £10,120 (RM55,364) and a 1983 Escort RS1600i which sold for £9,900 (RM54,161). Then, a pristine 1987 Volkswagen Golf GTi convertible, formerly owned by Sir David Jason OBE, sold for £17,820 (RM97,490).

Considered rubbish during that era, 1980s cars are starting to gain popularity especially among those who were at the time, too young or broke, to afford such vehicles. Cars like the MkII Escort, MkII VW GTI and early generation Skylines are starting to go up in value. And it won’t be long until their prices begin to skyrocket as they become more rare and desirable than before.

Ford to sue John Cena over breach of contract

John Cena, a well-known World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) wrestler, is being sued by the Ford Motor Company for breach of contract, according to an article by wxyz.com. See, Cena recently took delivery of a Ford GT, a supercar that requires and invitation from Ford itself, to purchase.

Unlike regular vehicles, one can’t simply walk into a Ford dealership and buy a Ford GT. The automaker gets to decide who is ‘worthy’ ro a own the car after a lengthy vetting process. Those who have owned the previous version are more likely to be placed higher on the list than someone who hasn’t.

Each individual owner who takes delivery of the car, has to sign a contract that prevents them from selling off the Ford GT for at least for 24 months. This clause was put in place to prevent buyers from flipping this rare and rather special car for a substantial profit. In Cena’s case, he sold the car after a few weeks.

And its for this very reason, Ford is taking him to court. The automaker feels that he didn’t honour the agreement and instead, bought the car to profit from its resale value. Cars that require an invitation to own, are far more valuable than those that can be purchased from the showroom floor.

Cena admitted to the act but clarified that it was done to clear other outstanding debts. He also stated that he is willing to work with Ford to make this right. Nobody knows exactly how this will play out though, but the automaker should have an iron-clad case against the wrestler due to this contract that he willingly signed.

The latest Ford GT builds on the success of its predecessors by offering cutting edge tech, efficient aerodynamics and bucket loads of power. Under the hood is an Ecoboost V6 engine that provides similar power figures to a V8 but weighing significantly less.

Source: wxyz.com

Ford invests big money in Valencia facility

Ford Motor Company is spending a substantial amount of money on its Valencia plant in preparation for the next-generation Ford Kuga medium-sized Sports Utility Vehicle. More than €750 million (RM3.7 billion) has been poured into the facility to facilitate several upgrades that are related to cost efficiency and productivity improvements.

In total, Ford has spent about €3 billion (RM14.7 billion) since 2011 for its manufacturing site in Spain, which currently employs 8,000 workers across all of its operations. Its latest investment signals the Blue Oval’s commitment to this facility and its workforce.

“This major investment reconfirms in the clearest way our continuing commitment to the Valencia region and to Spain. I also want to thank the national government in Madrid and the Generalitat Valenciana for their continued support,” said Steven Armstrong, president and CEO, Ford of Europe, Middle East and Africa.

About 25% of all vehicles sold in Europe are SUVs, which is probably the reason for Ford’s recent investment strategy. According to the automaker, sales figures for the Kuga this year stands at 126,900, which is a 22% increase compared to the same period in 2016. And it happens to be Ford’s third top-selling model after the Fiesta and Focus.

It also accounts for 50% of the total production numbers at the Valencia facility, which speaks volumes about Ford’s mindset of maintaining a foothold in the highly competitive European SUV market.

Piston.my

Ford

It’s Coming! Ford Unleashes First-Ever Ranger Raptor In Thailand!

Ford and SDAC celebrate Christmas with patients

Red Edition Focus RS to be launched soon

Ford’s survey says parents are hypocrites

Ford Focus RS is experiencing engine problems

Classic Mustangs live on as timepieces

Strong demand for 1980s cars at CCA

Ford to sue John Cena over breach of contract

Ford invests big money in Valencia facility

It’s Coming! Ford Unleashes First-Ever Ranger Raptor In Thailand!

Ford and SDAC celebrate Christmas with patients

Red Edition Focus RS to be launched soon

Ford’s survey says parents are hypocrites

Ford Focus RS is experiencing engine problems

Classic Mustangs live on as timepieces

Strong demand for 1980s cars at CCA

Ford to sue John Cena over breach of contract

Ford invests big money in Valencia facility

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