Next Corvette to have all new 5.5 liter 440hp V8?

Motor Trend, citing a source inside General Motors, is reporting that the next generation Corvette will sport an all new motor. Naturally, this motor will be a V8, it just won't have the large displacement of the current 6.2 and 7.0 liter engines.

This next generation small block will find its first home in the next Corvette, the results of an $890 million dollar investment on GM's part. It will feature an aluminum block and heads, direct injection, and a new combustion system to improve efficiency.

The reported new engine will displace 5.5 liters, and produce around 440 horsepower. While this isn't an earth shattering number, one would certainly expect the next Corvette to be lighter than the current model.

2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 to hit 480hp?

With the horsepower wars hitting their stride (with even Hyundai possibly joining the fray, the good looking but heavy Dodge Challenger needs a little boost in power to keep up with Ford and Chevy. And rumor has it that this is exactly what the updated 2011 Dodge Charger will receive, with the SRT8 potentially receiving a bump of 55 horses to 480.

According to Allpar, the car will also receive an 8 speed automatic transmission, the R/T will keep the same power levels, and the V6 motors will receive a 40hp bump to gain a total output of 290hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. Other changes are minor cosmetically and structurally, and you can check them out at Allpar's site.

Hyundai to make its own 5.0 with 429 horsepower?

Hyundai is making a name for itself in the car world the last few years, as it keeps introducing less expensive alternatives to other car makes. When they rolled out the Genesis coupe, it was clear that the Korean automaker was serious about entering into the sports car realm. And while it may not quite be a musclecar by definition, many have deemed it a Mustang fighter.

And now it may quite literally be fighting the Mustang. It appears that Hyundai is gearing up to offer a 5.0L V8 of their own, a bored out version of their 4.6L V8. This new motor was announced somewhat at a recent media event, and power is said to be a Mustang beating 429 hp at 6,500 rpm and 376 pound-feet of torque at 5,000 rpm when it reaches production.

Of course, nothing is official yet. And if Hyundai's 5.0 does make its way into the Genesis coupe, Ford is sure to up the ante even more. Heck, Chevrolet and Ford are already fighting the good horsepower fight. Another entry in the field can't hurt, right?

2011 Ford Mustang V6 hits 48.5 mpg in testing

The second biggest draw of the 2011 Mustang is its improved fuel economy in both the V6 and V8 models. The most impressive part of this improvement is that it comes with a large increase in power, proving that technology is certainly a good thing when it comes to engine efficiency.

On June 23rd, Ford Engineers took to Bristol Motor Speedway to see just what kind of mileage they could squeeze out of a V6 powered '11 Mustang. 12 1/2 hours later, the team covered 1,457 laps at an average speed of 43.9 miles per hour. The 16 gallon tank provided an amazing 48.5 mpg, and a total of 776.5 miles. Check out the video to see the hyper-miling in action.

Video: Hennessey twin turbocharges Ford Raptor 6.2L

John Hennessey is known for adding power to pretty much anything someone would want to add power to. And why wouldn't anyone want to add some power to the Baja ready Ford Raptor? This thing is already a from the factory off road machine, and a pair of turbos can only up the fun quotient.

The result are two different models, the VelociRaptor 600 and 800, which go a step above the supercharged VelociRaptor 500 (for those with the previous model's 5.4L V8). Power from the stock 6.2 starts out at 411hp and 434 lb-ft of torque, and rises to 602 hp and 622 lb-ft in the 600. The 800 model produces an astounding 810 hp and 745 lb-ft of torque.

Corvette Stingray concept becomes a convertible

The 'vette loving crew at Corvette Blogger has managed to get their hands on a couple of pictures of what appears to be a speedster recreation of the famous Corvette Stingray concept. You may remember this famous Corvette concept from the movie Transformers and the show car circuit.

The car was seen perusing around Beverly Hills, so it's possible that the car is either a new movie car or a new version of the concept set to hit some shows. Either way, it's a nice new look for the veteran concept.

Rossi SixtySix Corvette: a modern split window Corvette

The 1963 Corvette coupe was a styling home run and a rarity, being as it is the only year to offer the infamous "split window" styling. That little unique styling exercise has made it a beloved model year that is also the favorite of many car enthusiasts.

The Rossi SixtySix was created to marry this iconic styling with the modern handling and power of a C6 Corvette. The car is set to make its debut at this weekend's Detroit's EyesOn Design event, and is rumored to be available for the total combined price of $130,000 including donor C6.

Video: Birth of a Dodge Viper ACR-X

This video by Chrysler shows just exactly how a "normal" Dodge Viper becomes an ACR-X, the track only model. While the job is done at the same facility that produces the built-from-the-ground-up Viper Competition coupes, the ACR-X is retrofitted with race goods after it is assembled.

The list of goodies is long: roll cage, brake cooling ducts, racing fuel cell, fire suppression system, and huge brakes. All of which make the ACR-X track ready, almost from the showroom floor.

Vaughn Gittin Jr. RTR package now available for 2011 Mustang

Vaughn Gittin Jr. is the ace drifter known for driving and loving Ford Mustangs, which makes his name a prime candidate for being turned into a special edition Mustang.

The new RTR package boasts new shocks and springs that lower the car around 1.5 inches. Wheels are 19 inch and are wrapped in Falken FK452 tires. The suspension also sports a larger rear sway bar, and brakes include slotted rotors.

Performance upgrades include a K&N filter, Ford Racing ECU tune, and mufflers, which are good for 9 extra horsepower over the base model.

On the outside, the RTR features a front splitter, rear aluminum spoiler, and a nice graphics package. The interior has the normal various array of badges all over the place. Price? The whole package will set you back $7895.



Press Release

NEW VAUGHN GITTIN JR.-INSPIRED MUSTANG RTR PACKAGE DELIVERS PERFORMANCE, APPEARANCE

SUMMARY
Mustang RTR, a new dealer-installed package for the 2011 Ford Mustang, delivers performance and appearance upgrades for spirited driving. The package was introduced by Vaughn Gittin Jr., driver of the Monster Energy/Falken Tire 2011 Mustang GT in the Formula Drift series
The RTR package comes complete with Ford Racing M Falken FK-452 tires, unique 19-inch wheels, and RTR-exclusive interior details and striping scheme, and is available at select dealerships
The introduction of Mustang RTR also plays off the success Gittin is enjoying on the Formula Drift circuit. Winner of the season-opening Long Beach event and runner-up in Atlanta, he has a significant points lead in this year's Formula Drift championship

CONTEXT / BACKGROUND
Professional driver Vaughn Gittin Jr. knows what Mustangs can do – and he wanted to share that knowledge with Mustang enthusiasts who appreciate the car's power and capability. Mustang RTR is Gittin Jr.'s vision for introducing a new generation of owners to Mustang, while catering to traditional Mustang enthusiasts. He helped develop the RTR package, which provides performance and appearance upgrades, to allow pony car lovers to make the most of their driving experience.

DETAILS

The 2011 Ford Mustang is known for its incredible performance and impressive looks, and now there's a new package that takes those qualities one step further – Mustang RTR. The dealer-installed package from Vaughn Gittin Jr., driver of the Monster Energy/Falken Tire 2011 Mustang GT in Formula Drift, and Ford Racing Performance Parts, is aimed toward a new generation of Mustang owners.


The performance upgrade comes with Ford Racing calibration with a high-flow filter and high-performance Falken FK-452 tires, which offer precise handling from five linear ribs and three-dimensional rounded blocks. Stiffer, wide steel belts offer greater tread rigidity, superior grip and high-speed stability, and high-tension carcass and high turn-up construction increase handling response and high-speed stability.

Other performance upgrades include:
Unique Mustang RTR 19x9.5-inch wheels
Ford Racing mufflers
Ford Racing handling pack (performance-tuned dampers, bars and springs)

Mustang RTR commands attention with unique styling that is highlighted by a chin spoiler with splitter and supports, rocker splitters, a rear diffuser and aluminum rear spoiler. A distinctive Mustang RTR stripe scheme adds more distinction. The interior showcases RTR-exclusive floor mats, shifter knob and emblems.

The package was designed and manufactured in partnership with Michigan-based Classic Design Concepts, which has a reputation for quality and style. The Mustang RTR package is available at select dealerships for the 2011 Mustang GT. A Mustang V-6 package will be available in late 2010. For more information on the Mustang RTR package, visit www.mustangrtr.com.

Taking the lead
The introduction of Mustang RTR also plays off the success Gittin is enjoying in Formula Drift, with a significant lead in the championship point standings. Driving the Monster Energy/ Falken Tire 2011 Ford Mustang GT, Gittin took first place at the opening competition in Long Beach, Calif., and most recently placed second at Road Atlanta.

QUOTE

"Vaughn's goal was to introduce an exciting new package to the Mustang world that resonates with both the younger audience and with traditional muscle car enthusiasts as well. Mustang RTR achieves that goal with ease and illustrates how universal Mustang's appeal is."
– Mickey Matus, Ford Performance Group marketing manager

Ford offering official reproduction restoration parts

The automotive aftermarket is a lucrative business. Parts bring in big money, and we live in a country that loves to be original especially with our cars. So you certainly can't blame Ford for wanting a bigger piece of the pie.

Ford is now offering over 9,000 officially licensed parts for its cars and trucks going all the way back to the 1909 Model T. The Ford Parts catalog offers such niceties as complete body shells for 1967, '68, '69, and '70 Mustangs. Body shells for the first generation Bronco are also available, along with tons of other hard to find stuff.

Press Release

HELP DAD KEEP HIS FAVORITE RIDE ON THE ROAD THIS FATHER'S DAY WITH FORD LICENSED RESTORATION PARTS Ford restoration parts licensing program offers a portfolio of more than 9,000 parts for vehicles from 1909 to the early 2000s
Enthusiasts can now build nearly a complete 1967 Mustang from the ground up using brand-new reproduction components. About 98 percent of the Mustang's parts are being reproduced.
Many parts are manufactured on original Ford tooling, then carefully checked against original blueprints to ensure quality and aesthetics before being offered for sale

DEARBORN, Mich., June 7, 2010 – As Father's Day approaches, Ford is proud to support the millions of enthusiasts nationwide who keep antique and classic Ford-built vehicles on the road. And nowhere is that support more evident than through the official Ford licensed restoration parts program.

With a growing parts portfolio containing more than 9,000 part numbers, the program licenses parts for Ford-built vehicles from the Model T to those made as recently as the early 2000s. Every component is produced by one of the officially licensed suppliers, made to Ford Motor Company standards using original factory tooling. No longer do enthusiasts have to spend hours online looking for rare new old stock parts, nor do they have to wander through scrap yards looking for used parts for their classics. Chances are the part is available new and just a mouse click away.
The program is so comprehensive that an enthusiast can actually construct a "new" vintage Ford using reproduction parts.

"You can literally build a 1967 Mustang using officially licensed Ford restoration parts right from your computer, without ever visiting a wrecking yard," says Dennis Mondrach, Restoration Licensing manager, Ford Component Sales (FCS). "Complete steel bodyshells are available, Ford Racing can supply crate motors, and specialty manufacturers make all the hardware, drivetrain, interior parts and even instruments with classic or customized faces. You can build your car as a classic or upgrade the components you choose."

Ford currently offers four complete Mustang bodies covering 1967 to 1970. Later this fall, Ford will introduce its first truck-based body for restorers of the classic 1960s Bronco.

The strict licensing process helps ensure any parts bearing the company's official trademarks meet the quality standards and authenticity that classic Ford enthusiasts demand. Each approved part comes with a blue-and-white sticker with the Ford logo stating it is an officially licensed restoration part. That means the fit, function and appearance is as authentic as the original.

"When Ford stops making a part and retires the tooling, that tooling is offered to FCS," explains Mondrach. "Based on the type of component and whether we think it would be of interest to the vintage vehicle market, we then offer it to one of our 75 licensed manufacturers and they put the tooling back into service.

"The end result," Mondrach says, "is that owners of vintage Ford vehicles get a source of factory-correct parts made on Ford tooling."

Restoring a classic Ford-built vehicle in the family garage has been an American tradition for decades. Tens of thousands of fathers have shown their sons and daughters how to restore a car using a Model A, Model T, Thunderbird, Mustang or F-Series. According to Hagerty Collector Car Insurance of Traverse City, Mich., the worldwide leader in collector car insurance, four Ford-built vehicles are among the top 10 most popular cars it insures. Mustang, for example, is No. 2 on this year's list, according to Hagerty.

Accurate reproduction parts make the restoration process easier, and for those enthusiasts who decide to show the finished product, they can make the difference between a trophy and an empty-handed trip home. The Ford licensing program has been singled out for special recognition from both the Mustang Club of America and the Thunderbird Club of America for supplying components identical to original Ford parts.

"Before a supplier can sell a licensed part – even one produced on Ford tooling – they are required to submit a sample for approval," said Mondrach. "We compare the sample to original blueprints and engineering specifications and ensure the part meets or exceeds the original piece in quality, aesthetics and functionality."

All Ford restoration parts licensees must successfully complete a quality assurance survey and meet all federal and state safety regulations. To assist in the monitoring of ongoing production quality, master samples of each restoration part are retained after approval and used as quality benchmarks for future production runs.

FCS tries to ensure a supply of frequently needed components is available to the restoration community, particularly interior parts and delicate trim pieces.

"We really try to provide the common parts that might be damaged or lost in an accident," explained Mondrach. "Many of those plastic and metal parts look exactly like the originals and are made on original tooling, but benefit from improved plastics and metallurgy, resulting in a higher-quality component than what was originally supplied on the vehicle."

On the other hand, Ford licensed restoration suppliers also reproduce very specialized components – in specialized original materials – for some of the first Ford products to hit the road.

"We license original Model A and T parts like the famous ah-ooga horn and many unique brass parts," said Mondrach. "Model T enthusiasts can even get licensed replacement handmade brass radiators.

"Whether you're rebuilding a classic Ford, Lincoln, Edsel or Mercury from scratch, or simply prepping your vintage vehicle for its next show," he adds, "Ford Restoration probably has many of the parts you need."

For more information
Visit the Ford restoration parts website at HYPERLINK "http://www.fordrestorationparts.com" www.fordrestorationparts.com. Select the vehicle make and model in which you're interested to load a list of suppliers with contact information.

Dodge unveils three special edition Vipers

While 2010 is the current Dodge Viper's swan song, and there has been nothing (officially) announced about the next generation, that doesn't mean that Dodge isn't going to take advantage of the increased interest in the car. And now, as a thanks to its top three dealers of the snake car, it has created three special editions of the car for them to sell.

As part of its "Dealer Exclusive Program," the special editions are the Viper SRT10 ACR Roadster, for Woodhouse Dodge of Blair, Nebraska, in yellow with black; the "Reverse SRT10 ACR" in green and black for Texas' Tomball Dodge; and finally Roanoke Dodge of Roanoke, Illinois' Black SRT10 Coupe with a purple stripe.

Only 50 of these special editions will be made altogether, so if you want one you better get on the phone.

Press Release

Dodge Announces Dealer Exclusive Program Offering Unique 2010 Viper SRT10s
06.07.2010 , Auburn Hills, Mich.

The 2010 model year just got even more exclusive for the Dodge Viper. The Dodge brand is unveiling three new unique 2010 Viper SRT10 vehicles as part of its "Dealer Exclusive Program."

Dealers who sold sufficient Viper volume to qualify were given the opportunity to create their own special editions that best meet the dreams of their most loyal customers. A total of 50 cars are being built under this program, and specific combinations were determined by each Dodge dealer who volunteered to participate.

Shown here (from left to right) are the Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR Roadster, developed specifically with Woodhouse Dodge in Blair, Neb., featuring a Race Yellow Clear Coat exterior with yellow driver's stripe; the "Reverse SRT10 ACR" developed with Tomball Dodge in Tomball, Texas, featuring the reverse color combination of the Snakeskin Green Special Edition introduced earlier this model year; and the Black SRT10 Coupe with Plum Crazy dual racing stripes developed with Roanoke Dodge in Roanoke, Ill.

To find all of the Dodge dealers who have 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10s on order including the various special-edition models, check out the new dealer locator function at the Viper Headquarters website: http://www.viperheadquarters.com/viper_nation/dealer_locator

With this being the last model year for the current-generation Dodge Viper, 2010 continues to be the most special year of production for the 600 horsepower V-10 powered "ultimate American sports car." Approximately 500 cars will make up the 2010 model year production run, and each one is more exclusive than ever before with more than 7,000 different possible appearance combinations.

Video: Ralph Gilles discusses the future of the Dodge Viper

While everyone anxiously awaits some news regarding the future of the Dodge Viper, there has been much speculation about what the brand will become. Will it be reborn as a purpose built sports car or race car? Will it retain much of its current traits and stay similar to the current car?

While Dodge CEO Ralph Giles takes the time in this video to discuss the current Viper and its pending retirement, he does not clue us in to any future Viper news. He does, however, acknowledge that demand for the outgoing 2010 Viper is very strong, and Dodge is considering building more ACR-X models to meet demand. Gilles also tells us that consumer demand is shaping decisions for the future of the brand.

Pimp your ride: Ford offers custom vinyl graphics for Mustang

Ford is smartly putting an emphasis on letting potential owners customize their vehicles, taking the lead from a society that is intent on being individual. Such endeavors have proven to be a success for companies such as Scion, and Ford's Mustang has long been a favorite for customizers.

Ford has now added the Mustang to a list of vehicles in including the Fiesta and F-150 that can be ordered with a custom vinyl wrap. Over 50 designs are available, ranging from flames to flowers. You can head on over to the Ford Custom Graphics website and design a cheaper alternative to a custom paint job now.

BUBBLES, FLOWERS AND FLAMES: New Ford website lets customers customize their vehicles
Ford is making it easy, cost-effective and fun for Ford owners to turn their car or truck into a unique personalized ride with custom vinyl graphics
With nearly 50 designs to choose from for each vehicle, the custom vinyl graphics offer the look of a custom paint job at half the cost; available through www.fordcustomgraphics.com
Ford custom graphics are launching with the new Ford Fiesta and will soon expand to include graphics for two of the most customized cars in the country – the Ford Mustang and F-150; the program will later roll out with customization options for all Ford vehicles.

DEARBORN, Mich., June 2, 2010 – A new website is making it easy, cost-effective and fun for Ford owners to turn their car or truck into a unique personalized ride with vinyl graphics that offer the look of a custom paint job at half the price.

The website – www.fordcustomgraphics.com – launched in November with vinyl wrap designs for the new Ford Fiesta is now expanding to include graphics for two of the most customized cars in the country – the Ford Mustang and F-150 – and later will offer customization options for all Ford vehicles.

"Ford knows that customers want a vehicle to be all their own," said Jim Abraham, Ford's Licensed Accessories manager. "The Ford Custom Graphics website complements our strong accessory portfolio and enables customers to put a personal stamp on their vehicle."

All it takes is a few clicks of a computer mouse.

"You click on your vehicle and its exterior color, select the graphics you like, and then the website will show you exactly how the designs will look on your car or truck," explained Abraham.

Approximately 50 designs were created specifically for each vehicle. All are available in a variety of colors and sizes and were designed with the target customer in mind.

People interested in the hip, new Ford Fiesta, for example, can choose from cool, fun designs like bubbles, arrows, dots and flowers. Mustang and F-150 customers will have an entirely different portfolio to choose from.

"Mustang owners might prefer race-themed graphics like stripes, flames or matte black accents, while our F-150 customers might like something a little more rugged like camouflage or a faux diamond plate aluminum look," said Abraham. "The neat thing about the website is that we're tailoring the designs to our customers."

According to Abraham, the website will continue to evolve over time to meet consumer demand and expectations.

"The whole idea behind the program is to offer our customers new ways to personalize their vehicle and provide a new exterior look throughout the ownership experience," he said. "In order to do this, we are going to keep revising the available graphics packages to give customers fresh new ideas to choose from."

Without giving away too much detail, Abraham says that consumers can look forward to seeing custom graphics that leverage some Ford corporate sponsorships along with other categories like green driving.

Ford Custom Graphics: The look of custom paint at half the cost

Ford Custom Graphics offers customers the look of custom-painted designs, but without the expensive price tag, according to Tom Stemple, chief executive officer of Original Wraps, Inc., a provider of "on-demand" custom graphics to the automotive industry and the company that developed the website for Ford.

"Vinyl wraps are typically half the cost of custom paint work," he said. "Another advantage is that they can be easily removed if the customer wants a new design or decides to sell the vehicle. Paint is permanent, and custom-painted vehicles are often much more difficult to resell."

In addition, all of the custom graphics feature 3M Scotchprint® On-Demand quality vinyl. They are professionally installed at Ford dealerships and include a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty.

Vehicle personalization: Have it your way

Forty years ago, if you wanted to personalize your vehicle you hung a pair of fuzzy dice from the rearview mirror or slapped a trendy sticker on your bumper. Today, the automotive aftermarket has grown into a $31.85 billion industry and includes everything from grilles and custom body kits to interior accents and performance parts.

With cool products – like custom graphics and a variety of other vehicle accessories – Ford is aiming at a larger slice of the aftermarket pie.

"We are doing everything we can to be on the leading edge of trendy new product offerings, and the idea of on-demand custom graphics is a great example of that," said Abraham.

According to Sheryl Connelly, manager of Ford Global Trends and Futuring, the growing interest in vehicle personalization mirrors a broader societal trend.

"The one-size-fits-all model isn't really relevant to today's consumers, and it's not necessarily a desire to stand out from the crowd. It's more a desire not to be lost in the masses," she said. "People are personalizing everything – cell phones, computers and clothing – and it's no different with automobiles."

Video: Hennessey Venom on the dyno - 933 hp at the wheels!

By now, we all know that Hennessey has a reputation for taking fast cars and bestowing upon them loads of horsepower. But now they are working on something quite ambitious for even an experienced tuner - building their own car from the ground up.

And an impressive car it is. We have seen pictures, video, and read lots of specs on the Venom GT, but until all the talk is backed up with some real dyno time, naturally everyone will have doubts. This video effectively silences them.

The final version of the GT features a twin turbo V8 sourced from the Corvette ZR1, and it churns out 933 rear wheel horsepower and 874 lb-ft of torque. And this is with regular old pump gas, no race fuel here. We are just guessing, but we don't think that a gross hp of over 1,000 is going to be a problem.

Ford officially kills off Mercury brand

It was inevitable, the death of Mercury. Long dead in the eyes of enthusiasts, the brand has soldiered on with but 0.8% of Ford's market share and only a couple of recycled and rebadged Fords in its stable. It seems like decades (and it has been, actually) since we saw the likes of a performance Mercury.

Ford's President of America, Mark Fields and Derrick Kuzak, group vice president of product development confirmed in a press conference today that Mercury would be discontinued in the fourth quarter of 2010.

The demise of Mercury is also going to lead to the expansion of the Lincoln brand, which will reportedly see seven all new or refreshed models. Lincoln will also be offering EcoBoost engines in all of it's vehicles, including the next Navigator. Ford has promised that Lincoln will soon be the most technologically advanced and fuel efficient luxury vehicles available.

Press Release

FORD TO EXPAND LINCOLN LINEUP AND BRAND EMPHASIS; MERCURY PRODUCTION ENDS IN FOURTH QUARTER OF 2010
Ford is expanding its Lincoln lineup with seven all-new or significantly refreshed vehicles in the next four years – including its first-ever C-segment vehicle
Lincoln's plan accelerates with more investment and attention on standout product design, class-leading technology and powertrains delivering top performance and fuel efficiency
Lincoln product development, marketing, sales and service resources expanding as the brand competes with Cadillac and Lexus in the marketplace
Ford will end production of Mercury vehicles in the fourth quarter of this year to fully devote its financial, product development, production and marketing, sales and service resources toward further growing its core Ford brand while enhancing Lincoln
Existing Mercury owners to receive continued access to parts and service support at Ford and Lincoln dealers; current Mercury vehicle warranties and Extended Service Plans will be honored; special offers available on new Mercury vehicles through the summer
Affected dealers to receive specialized support during the transition, as the company continues its transformation to a more profitable dealer network
DEARBORN, Mich., June 2, 2010 – Ford Motor Company will expand and enhance its Lincoln brand lineup with seven all-new or significantly refreshed vehicles in the next four years as part of an aggressive growth plan focused on standout product design, class-leading technology and new powertrains – all aimed at competing with Cadillac and Lexus in North America.

Ford also will end production of Mercury vehicles in the fourth quarter of this year to fully devote its financial, product development, production and marketing, sales and service resources toward further growing its core Ford brand while enhancing the Lincoln brand.

"We have made tremendous progress on profitably growing the Ford brand during the past few years. Now, it is time to do the same for Lincoln," said Mark Fields, Ford's president of The Americas. "The new Lincoln vehicles will transform luxury for North American premium customers through an unexpected blend of responsive driving enjoyment and warm, inviting comfort. We will also offer our customers a world-class retail experience through a vibrant retail network."

Lincoln's hallmarks will be refined, modern design, the most fuel-efficient premium powertrains and industry-leading technology that create a unique driver experience both in the cabin and on the road.

"Profitably growing Lincoln in North America is an important part of our One Ford plan," said Alan Mulally, Ford president and CEO. "Our Ford brand is gaining momentum and winning customers around the world. Now, we are going to use the same laser focus to further strengthen Lincoln and deliver even more products luxury customers really want and value."

Foundation Set

The future of Lincoln is building from a strong base that includes the all-new flagship MKS large sedan, the all-new MKT seven-passenger crossover and a significantly refreshed MKZ mid-size sedan – all now in showrooms. The hybrid version of the MKZ will reach showrooms later this year and is expected to be the most fuel efficient premium sedan on the market.

Lincoln's product actions continue later this year with the debut of the significantly refreshed 2011 MKX crossover, the first vehicle to feature MyLincoln Touch driver connect technology.

This will be followed by another six all-new or significantly refreshed vehicles within four years developed with Lincoln's DNA of standout design, precise and confident driving experience, class-leading technology and powertrains delivering top performance and fuel efficiency.

Lincoln will be led by expanded product development and marketing, sales and service teams to support the brand's growth plan and ensure it has a strong cadence of distinct products that are well positioned in the market. Plans for Lincoln include:
Lincoln's first-ever C-segment vehicle
New Lincoln-exclusive powertrains, including an all-new V-6 engine and advanced fuel-efficient transmissions
EcoBoost engines available in all Lincolns – from the Navigator full-size SUV to the new C-segment Lincoln
Fuel economy leadership with each new vehicle – leading to Lincoln emerging as the most fuel-efficient luxury lineup on the market
More useful technology and features than any other competitor – with a special focus on comfort and convenience. New advanced features include: fully retractable glass roofs; adaptive computer-controlled suspensions; electronic, push-button gear-selectors; active noise control; and exclusive MyLincoln Touch driver connect technology

"Lincoln vehicles will reward drivers with smooth, effortless power complemented by agile handling and responsive steering," said Derrick Kuzak, Ford's group vice president, Global Product Development. "The cabin is a sanctuary with segment-leading quietness, genuine materials and intuitive, useful technology."

Lincoln has started gaining traction with customers, as evidenced by market share gains during the past five years. Lincoln's share of the retail U.S. luxury vehicle market has grown from 4.5 percent in 2005 to 6.3 percent through the first quarter of 2010.

In addition, Lincoln's reputation with consumers has risen, with favorable opinion and purchase consideration reaching its highest level in the past five years. Lincoln's long-term durability was second only to Porsche's in the 2010 J.D. Power and Associates Vehicle Dependability Survey.

Mercury

Mercury originally was created as a premium offering to Ford and was an important source of incremental sales. However, the continued strength of the Ford brand – particularly during the past three years – has accelerated the migration from Mercury to Ford for many customers.

Today, Mercury's customer profile, pricing and margins are almost identical to Ford, but Mercury's incremental sales have been declining.

The majority of current Mercury sales are to fleet buyers and customers purchasing through employee, retiree and friends and family discounts, which Ford anticipates largely can be satisfied by Ford brand vehicles.

Of Ford Motor Company's 16 percent market share in the U.S., Mercury accounts for 0.8 percentage points, a level that has been flat or declining for the past several years. That contrasts with the Ford brand, which has increased market share by 2.2 percentage points so far this year on the strength of new products and improved quality, fuel efficiency, safety, smart design and value.

Ford's strengthening financial position – including the return to profitability and positive cash flow – allows the company to absorb short-term costs associated with the discontinuation of Mercury and to consolidate future product investments into Lincoln.

Today, there are no stand-alone Mercury dealerships in North America. Ford is working closely with dealers to maintain properly located stand-alone Lincoln or Ford-Lincoln dealers, which will offer dealers and the company the greatest opportunity for long-term profitable growth.

New operational standards developed with the company's dealers will facilitate a Lincoln customer experience that exceeds the expectations of North American luxury customers.

Personal Attention

Ford will work closely with Mercury dealers and customers during the transition, including providing existing Mercury owners with continued access to parts and service support at Ford and Lincoln dealers and by honoring current warranties, including Ford's Extended Service Plans.

"We are 100 percent committed to supporting Mercury owners through Ford and Lincoln dealerships and working hard to keep them as valued customers in the future," Fields said.

"At the same time, we will work closely with our dealers to phase out Mercury franchises and continue to build a healthy, growing Lincoln with strong new products and a profitable dealer network that delivers a world-class customer experience."

Mercury owners will receive additional details in the coming days explaining the transition and assuring them that Ford and its dealers will continue to provide all necessary parts and service support for Mercury products.

Ford has notified Mercury dealers of the decision and provided details of a financial package that includes payment in exchange for resigning the franchise.

Ford today also informed dealers of special offers on new Mercury vehicles that will be available through the summer to support the sell down of current Mercury inventory and remaining Mercury vehicle production.

"We are taking decisive action and moving into the future with the right plan to deliver profitable growth for all stakeholders," Fields said. "These moves position us to continue building momentum through strong brands, great products and an unwavering focus on the customer."

RTR-X Mustang to debut at 2010 SEMA

Vaughn Gittin Jr. is known for his ability to drive Mustangs sideways, as he is a leading driver in Formula Drift. But Vaughn has also been busy trying to launch his own car brand - RTR. The first car we saw from RTR was at last year's SEMA show, the RTR-C.

The follow up to the RTR-C is coming to this year's SEMA, and is dubbed the RTR-X. The car is a collaboration between the Need for Speed franchise and is based on a 1969 Mustang. Purists need not worry, as the body is a Dynacorn replacement shell. The RTR-X is powered by a 2011 Mustang 5.0 V8, and features a one off subframe.

You can follow along as the car is being built in the meantime.