| Ford Turbocharges Production of EcoBoost Vehicles |
| PRBuzz Press Releases |
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BOW, N.H., / PRBuzz.com / February 1, 2012 -- When Ford began production of its EcoBoost engines in 2009, it was difficult to say whether the line of small-displacement powerplants would find success at Ford dealerships. In 2011, however, Ford sold a record 127,683 EcoBoost-equipped vehicles, and the automaker recently announced plans to triple the production capacity of EcoBoost rides in 2012. Ford's EcoBoost engines use turbocharging and direct-injection technology to deliver up to 20 percent better fuel economy than naturally aspirated gasoline engines. They also output more power with less displacement, which has helped convert longtime advocates of larger engines. By its third full month of sales in May 2011, the Ford F-150 with an EcoBoost V6 was already accounting for 40 percent of the pickup line's sales. Meanwhile, the EcoBoost V6 and naturally aspirated V6 models combined to outsell the V8 options in 2011, making up 56 percent of F-150 sales. "At first, buyers were skeptical about putting a V6 engine in a pickup truck, but that attitude quickly changed as they realized how powerful the EcoBoost actually is," said Bob McCullen, general sales manager of Bow, New Hampshire Ford dealership Grappone Ford. "Increased production of EcoBoost engines will mean greater access to fuel-efficient technology for a broader spectrum of buyers." Redesigned Ford Escape compact SUVs and Ford Fusion sedans are first in line to receive EcoBoost variants this year. Both high-volume sellers, Ford expects the two vehicles will help make fuel efficiency more accessible and affordable for the general public with 1.6-liter EcoBoost options. The automaker also says the new models will simultaneously benefit the environment and help the United States move closer to energy independence. As Ford introduces its acclaimed engine design into more models this year, it will also add another EcoBoost displacement option to the Ford Taurus. Currently, Taurus buyers can opt for their full-size sedan to be outfitted with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 that nets up to 26 mpg on the highway. Later this year, Ford will also begin selling the Taurus with a smaller 2.0-liter, four-cylinder EcoBoost engine. Manufacturer estimates put the new EcoBoost-equipped Taurus' fuel economy at 31 mpg, the best in its class. Taurus buyers who choose to go without one of the two EcoBoost options can go with the standard 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 18 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. Although these fuel economy numbers are similar to those of a 3.5-liter EcoBoost-equipped Taurus, a big difference lies in the performance numbers. The naturally aspirated engine provides up to 263 horsepower, but the V6 EcoBoost delivers up to 365 horsepower. "Many of our customers find that EcoBoost engines strike the perfect balance between fuel efficiency and power," added McCullen. "Ford has proven that a small and efficient engine can also be a powerhouse. That's why the EcoBoosts are so popular; they require little compromise." About Grappone Ford: Established in 1924, Grappone Ford is the destination for New Hampshire Ford fans from Manchester, Concord and the surrounding communities who demand superior automotive service. Grappone's friendly staff are experts in all things Ford, and their skilled technicians perform high-quality repairs and maintenance at their state-of-the-art service center. You can browse their extensive inventory of new and used Ford models online at www.grapponeford.com, call them at 888-829-8645 or stop by their dealership at 506 State Road Route 3A in Bow, New Hampshire. The Grappone Automotive Group can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/grapponeauto. read full article |
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