DEARBORN, Mich., April 4, 2001 - Ford dealers across the country have ordered more than 100,000 2002 Explorers, the new generation of the world's best-selling sport utility vehicle. The all-new SUV currently is arriving in dealer showrooms and in customer hands across the nation.

"Last year, the Explorer set an all-time sales record with more than 445,000 sold," said Jim O'Connor, Ford Division president. "With the number of orders already received for the 2002 model, the new Explorer will continue to post impressive results."

Since its introduction in 1990, the Explorer has been the best selling SUV in the world. The Explorer also is the sales leader in Ford's "No Boundaries - Ford Outfitters" SUV lineup, which includes the Escape, Explorer Sport, Explorer Sport Trac, Expedition and Excursion.

"For the past 10 years, the Ford Explorer has been the most popular SUV on the market," said O'Connor. "We've continued to improve the product based on consumer needs, strengthening our lead in the segment."

Featuring a new independent rear suspension (IRS) system and unique porthole-in-frame design - allowing for a lower step-in height, an optional third-row seat and seven-passenger seating capability - the new Explorer is designed to offer an improved ride in a more comfortable and user-friendly interior.

Ford's 2002 Explorer offers customers many standard and optional features that make it stand out from the competition. These include a 2.5-inch-wider stance and a 2-inch-longer wheelbase than the current model, optional adjustable pedals and an improved ControlTrac� four-wheel-drive system. Also available later in 2001 are new safety features: the Personal Safety System, which includes driver and passenger dual-stage air bags; and the Safety Canopy, an industry-first system with rollover sensors deploying side-curtain air bags to protect passengers in the event of a rollover.

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices for the 2002 Ford Explorer (including Destination and Delivery charges of $600) begin at $24,620 for the XLS series, $28,380 for the XLT series, and $32,690 for the Eddie Bauer and Limited series.

The high-volume model, an XLT 4x4 equipped with the standard 4.0-liter V-6 engine and optional premium electronic AM/FM stereo/clock/single CD player, will carry a base MSRP of $30,475 (including Destination and Delivery charges).

Connecting with customers on a more personal level is a key element of the Explorer advertising strategy, making its debut this month. Television, print and outdoor advertising will tap into the spirit of the Explorer customer. The television element of the campaign will appear on network programming this week. The 2002 Explorer print advertising will begin appearing in May monthly publications, available on newsstands in mid-April, and outdoor advertising kicks off later this spring. All elements of the campaign express the same three messages of "Bigger, Smoother, and More Powerful."

The Louisville Assembly Plant in Louisville, Ky., and the St. Louis Assembly Plant in St. Louis, Mo., produce the new Explorer with a choice of V-6 or the new 4.6-liter SOHC V-8 engine. ....

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