The Ford Motor Company, one of the most iconic and enduring automotive manufacturers in the world, has a rich history spanning over a century. Founded by Henry Ford in 1903, the company has been at the forefront of innovation, introducing groundbreaking technologies and models that have shaped the industry. However, like any other major corporation, Ford has its secrets and lesser-known facts. In this article, we will delve into 7 Ford secrets uncovered, shedding light on the fascinating stories and innovations that have contributed to the company's success.
Secret 1: The Original Ford Mustang Was Based on a Falcon
The Ford Mustang, an iconic American muscle car, was first introduced in 1964. What many people don’t know is that the original Mustang was based on the Ford Falcon, a compact car that was launched in 1960. The Mustang’s design team, led by Lee Iacocca, used the Falcon’s platform as the foundation for the new sports car, modifying it to accommodate a longer hood, a shorter rear deck, and a more aggressive stance. This clever reuse of existing components helped reduce development costs and time, allowing the Mustang to hit the market quickly and become an instant success. The Mustang’s popularity soared, with over 418,000 units sold in the first year alone, making it one of the most successful car launches in history.
The Design Process
The design process for the Mustang was a collaborative effort between Ford’s internal design team and the legendary designer, Carroll Shelby. Computer-aided design (CAD) software was not yet available at the time, so the team relied on traditional sketching and clay modeling techniques to bring the car to life. The result was a sleek, sporty design that captured the essence of American muscle cars. The Mustang’s distinctive fastback silhouette and triple-tail灯 design have become iconic in the world of automotive design, influencing generations of car enthusiasts and designers alike.
| Model Year | Units Sold |
|---|---|
| 1964 | 418,812 |
| 1965 | 559,451 |
| 1966 | 607,568 |
Secret 2: Ford’s Advanced Safety Features
Ford has been at the forefront of automotive safety, introducing innovative features that have become industry standards. One such feature is the airbag system, which was first introduced in the 1980s. Ford’s airbag system uses a combination of sensors and algorithms to detect crashes and deploy the airbags in a fraction of a second. Crash testing has played a crucial role in the development of Ford’s safety features, with the company conducting extensive testing to ensure that its vehicles meet or exceed regulatory standards.
Safety Ratings
Ford’s commitment to safety has earned its vehicles top ratings from reputable testing organizations, such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Ford F-150, for example, has a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, thanks to its advanced safety features, including electronic stability control, anti-lock braking, and a comprehensive airbag system.
- Electronic stability control
- Anti-lock braking
- Comprehensive airbag system
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane-departure warning
What is the difference between a 5-star and 4-star safety rating?
+A 5-star safety rating indicates that a vehicle has met the highest safety standards, with a lower risk of injury or fatality in the event of a crash. A 4-star rating, on the other hand, indicates that a vehicle has met most, but not all, of the safety standards, with a slightly higher risk of injury or fatality.
Secret 3: Ford’s Electric and Hybrid Vehicles
Ford has been investing heavily in electric and hybrid vehicle technology, with a range of models available, including the Ford Fusion Hybrid and the Ford Focus Electric. The Ford F-150 Hybrid, for example, combines a powerful 3.5L V6 engine with an electric motor, providing improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. Ford’s electric and hybrid vehicles are designed to provide a smooth, quiet ride, with advanced features like regenerative braking and eco-mode.
Electric Vehicle Charging
Ford has partnered with leading charging networks, such as ChargePoint and Electrify America, to provide its customers with access to a comprehensive charging infrastructure. Level 2 charging is the most common type of charging, using a 240-volt charging station to charge a vehicle in just a few hours. Ford’s electric vehicles are designed to be charged at home, at work, or on the go, making them a convenient and practical choice for daily driving.
| Model | Electric Range | Charging Time |
|---|---|---|
| Ford Focus Electric | 115 miles | 4-5 hours |
| Ford Fusion Hybrid | 610 miles | N/A |
| Ford F-150 Hybrid | 700 miles | N/A |
Secret 4: Ford’s Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)
Ford has been at the forefront of ADAS technology, introducing innovative features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. These systems use a combination of cameras, sensors, and algorithms to detect and respond to the driving environment, providing a safer, more convenient driving experience. Ford’s ADAS technology has been designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, with features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring.
Driver Assistance Features
Ford’s ADAS technology includes a range of features, such as:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane-keeping assist
- Automatic emergency braking
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane-departure warning
How do I know if my Ford vehicle is equipped with ADAS technology?
+You can check your vehicle's specifications or consult with a Ford dealer to determine if your vehicle is equipped with ADAS technology. Additionally, you can look for features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, which are commonly included in Ford's ADAS packages.
Secret 5: Ford’s Performance Division
Ford’s Performance Division is responsible for creating some of the company’s most iconic and high-performance models, including the Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 and the Ford Focus RS. The Performance Division is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of speed and handling, with a focus on developing vehicles that deliver exceptional performance and driving excitement.
Performance Models
Ford’s Performance Division has created a range of models, including:
- Ford Mustang Shelby GT350
- Ford Focus RS
- Ford F-150 Raptor
- Ford Mustang GT
| Model | Engine | Power |
|---|---|---|
| Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 | 5.2L V8 | 529 hp |
| Ford Focus RS |
