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January 22, 2008

This Week:

• The new BMW M3 Convertible - Experience Power, Enjoy Freedom

• Explorer America Concept Highlights Ford’s Vehicle Sustainability Strategy

• Next-Generation Honda Pilot Debuts In Detroit

• The new-generation CLS: Fine-tuning for the design trendsetter

• Toyota Stages World Debut Of All-New Venza

• The Audi A3 Cabriolet- Experience new open spaces

• Lotus Engineering & KACST Cooperate to Establish Technology Base for the Automotive Industry in Saudi Arabia

• All-New BMW X6 Named "Best Production Truck" At Eyes On Design Awards At 2008 North American International Auto Show

• Vodafone McLaren Mercedes extends Lewis Hamilton`s contract 

• Nissan FORUM Concept Utilizes Design and Technology Innovations to Create a Unique Family Activity Space

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• A powertrain lineup that includes a 4-cylinder 2-liter engine with EcoBoost technology delivering 275 hp and 280 lb.-ft. of torque or, as a premium engine, a 3.5-liter V-6 delivering about 340 hp. Depending on engine selection, fuel-efficiency will improve by 20 to 30 percent versus today’s V-6 Explorer

• Migration from current body-on-frame to unibody construction, reducing weight and delivering superior driving dynamics

• A fuel-efficient 6-speed transmission with auto shift control, allowing the driver to select and hold a lower gear with just the turn of a dial when conditions warrant it

• A weight reduction of 150 pounds for the V-6 version thanks to its downsized – yet superior performing – engine, as well as more lightweight materials, suspension and chassis components

• Fuel-saving electric power assisted steering (EPAS) and other engine actions that deliver a fuel savings benefit of about 5 percent. Between 80 to 90 percent of Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles will have EPAS by 2011

In addition to its fuel-efficient powertrain and technologies, the Explorer America concept addresses how the SUV market has changed in the past 15 years.

In the 1990s, customers were drawn by SUVs aligned with people’s adventurous, more rugged lifestyles. Today’s consumers are more discerning, demanding products that are capable and flexible – but more intelligently executed.

The Explorer America concept looks the part, too, with a modern, muscular design language that belies its ability to harness today’s active lifestyles. Its integrated three-bar grille, defined power dome hood, wrap-around rear glass panel window and sliding rear door give the appearance that this concept is ready for modern Lewis-and-Clark types to explore, from their own neighborhoods to the trail head.

Inside, intelligent features abound, including: single-touch stackable, sliding seats that allow for convenient access to the second row; a work table with seats deploy from the tailgate; and a three-dimensional compass and navigation unit with a topographical map built right into the instrument panel.

Photos: Ford

(Jan 18, 2008)