2011 Ford Edge boasts more power, unsurpassed fuel economy

Ford is proving once again that more power and outstanding fuel economy are not mutually exclusive offerings; the new Ford Edge delivers both. The 2011 Edge SEL and Limited, the two most popular choices in the midsize crossover series, deliver an unsurpassed 19 mpg city and 27 highway with a 3.5-liter V6 producing 285 horsepower. This is best among standard V6 competitors. Edge Sport, riding on class-exclusive 22-inch wheels, pumps out 305 horsepower from its 3.7-liter V6 – 40 more than the outgoing model – while maintaining its EPA-estimated 18 mpg city and 25 highway.

Anne Marie Gattari  |  agattari@ford.com  |  313.323.7809

‘Do Not Disturb’: Improved SYNC offers safer alternatives to hand-held texting

With the issue of texting while driving getting hotter by the day, Ford is extending its SYNC® technology to help drivers keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel. Ford was the first automaker to support a proposed federal ban and state-level ban on hand-held texting while driving. Among other changes, Ford has added a "Do Not Disturb" button to block incoming calls and texts on new MyFord Touch™-equipped vehicles, as well as proactive feature content lockouts to encourage use of voice control.

Alan Hall  |  ahall32@ford.com  |  313.594.3744

Michigan’s Compact Power to supply battery packs for Ford Focus Electric

As Ford moves closer to rolling out its electric cars, the company has selected Compact Power, Inc. to supply lithium-ion battery packs for the 2011 Ford Focus Electric. CPI, based in Troy, Mich., will begin battery pack assembly for the Focus Electric next year and is finalizing production site selection in the U.S. Focus Electric production begins in 2011 at Michigan Assembly Plant; the car will have a targeted full-charge range of up to 100 miles with zero tailpipe emissions.

Jennifer Moore  |  jmoor186@ford.com  |  313.248.2335

Ford Fiesta accessories add unique flavor

Ford is giving Fiesta owners even more reasons to love their car. An assortment of options such as custom accessories, body kits and graphics are available to owners who want to add a personal touch to Fiesta. Customers can choose an illuminated gear indicator shift knob and rear spoiler, or even a kayak carrier to haul outdoor gear. There’s also a body-side tattoo along with 18 available graphics that will let owners put their very own mark on Fiesta.

Angie Kozleski  |  akozlesk@ford.com  |  313.323.1984