Gresham Ford is excited about the bi-fuel Fusion Energi

Gresham Ford is excited that the Fusion Energi is the first plug-in hybrid midsize sedan for Ford and is available through Ford Certified EV Dealers, like Gresham Ford.  The Ford Fusion Energi features a total EPA-estimated driving range in gasoline and electric operation of up to 620 miles and a driving range in EV mode (all-electric) of up to 21 miles.  Most of those in the Portland metro area work and live within a 21 mile radius meaning that we would almost always use the electric power exclusively.  Because the Fusion Energi also has a gasoline fuel engine it allows the long road trips to the coast or Bend without range anxiety.  This new Ford technology is a great stepping stone to becoming an even greener NW.

Ford Fusion Energi now available at Gresham Ford

The plug-in capability means the lithium-ion battery can be fully charged easily overnight in approximately
7 hours using the standard 120-volt convenience charging cord or — for faster charging in about 2.5 hours.  Then you would drive to work almost exclusively on electric power.

The Fusion Energi also delivers maximum efficiency by combining a state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery and electric motor with a gasoline engine.  The bi-fuel technology truly answers the range anxiety some have voiced with the exclusively electric vehicles like Ford Focus Electric.  The Fusion Energi offers the best of both worlds, providing the capability to be driven as an electric vehicle for short trips and as a hybrid for longer trips.

For more information or to schedule your personalized test drive call 503-665-0101 or stop by 1999 East Powell Blvd in Gresham; drive safe and green!

The 2014 Ford Focus is new and better than ever and has two engine options

The new 2014 Ford Focus offers an updated model lineup that includes S, SE and Titanium sedan and SE and Titanium hatchback options.  Ford is also offering a 2.0L Ti-VCT I-4 engine with direct-injection, twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) and flex-fuel (E85) capability that offers an excellent balance of performance and fuel efficiency.  Pairing with the PowerShift 6-speed automatic transmission with SelectShift capability will also improve fuel efficiency and driving satisfaction.  The European-inspired suspension has been tuned for agility and precision, rewarding the driver with a connected-tothe-
road feel.  The “Kinetic” exterior design is toned and athletic, conveying a sense of motion even when still and it's super fun to drive.  The 2014 Ford Focus has an impressive array of smart technologies provides drivers with a totally connected driving experience that drivers throughout the NW will appreciate.

The first engine option for the 2014 Ford Focus is the 2.0L Ti-VCT I-4 that produces 160 horsepower @ 6500 rpm while providing 146 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4450 rpm.  The aggressive deceleration fuel shut-off (ADFSO) helps to provide even better fuel efficiency and is complimented by the twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT).  Ford has also included a smart charging alternator, direct-injection with flex-fuel capability allows operation on E85 fuel, regular unleaded fuel or any combination of the two in the same fuel

tank.  We only have a few E85 stations in the Portland area but if you do run across one take advantage because E85 is usually almost $1 cheaper per gallon.    Focus equipped with the 2.0L Ti-VCT I-4 engine offers flexible-fuel vehicle (FFV) capability. This allows the engine to operate on E85 fuel — a blend of 85% ethanol fuel and 15% unleaded gasoline. The engine can run on E85 fuel, regular unleaded gasoline or any combination of the two. It’s important to note that when operating on E85, Focus will achieve measurably less fuel economy. This is normal; since E85 has less energy as a fuel, it takes more E85 to make the same power as unleaded gasoline. The primary benefits of E85 fuel are for the environment because it’s a fuel made from renewable resources and that it lowers the emission of greenhouse gases.The dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) is made of lightweight aluminum cylinder head with 4 valves per cylinder helps deliver a balance of horsepower and fuel efficiency.  Ford worked very hard to keep this vehicle light in order to help boost its fuel efficiency.  The aluminum engine block and cylinder head help to reduce overall vehicle weight to aid fuel efficiency.  Ford has also chosen a timing chain, instead of a belt, helps improve durability.  The piston-cooling jets and deep sump oil pan help the enhanced spray pattern and piston dome design for maximum fuel economy.  With the special low-friction coating on piston skirt with the oil pump and drive ratio sized for reduced friction also help to get the most possible out of every gallon of fuel.  The oil change interval is also up to 10,000 miles, although we at Gresham Ford still recommend every 3,000 miles due to the quality of our fuel in the NW.

The second engine option when considering the 2014 Ford Focus is the 2.0L Ti-VCT I-4 PZEV (Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle) with 159 horsepower @ 6500 rpm and 146 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4450 rpm.  This engine choice includes all of the same engine technology of the 2.0L Ti-VCT I-4 while being mated to a 5-speed manual or PowerShift 6-speed automatic transmission.  The automatic engine is available as a limited option for orders submitted by dealers in the cross-border states of AZ, DC, DE, ID, NH, NV, OH, VA and WV.  Those of us in Oregon and Washington will have no difficulty having a wide selection available   

The 2014 Ford Focus meets zero fuel-based emissions standards by demonstrating zero fuel-based evaporative emissions while Ford covers the emissions performance of its California-emissions-certified PZEVs registered in CA, CT, MA, MD, ME, NJ, NY, RI and VT with a 15-year or 150,000-mile (whichever occurs first) limited warranty on emissions components (OR, PA and WA do not require the extended PZEV warranty).  The 2014 Ford Focus, available at Gresham Ford, scores a 9 (10 is the highest score) on the EPA’s Green Vehicle Guide (epa.gov/greenvehicles) while only a zero emissions vehicle (battery electric or fuel cell) receives a higher score.  

 

Ford Focus Electric brings a spark to Portland

The 2013 Ford Focus Electric has arrived in Portland Oregon and is available at all Electric Ford Certified Dealerships.  The Focus Electric Battery is a 23-kWh advanced liquid-heated and -cooled lithium-ion (Li-ion).  Even though it is an electric car it still has 4-wheel disc brakes.  You can also identify the Electric Focus from other Ford Focus vehicles by the chart port light ring (120- or 240-volt capable) with a SAEJ1772 connector.  The Ford Focus Electric comes standard with a 6.6-kW electric on board charger with a charging cord that has a 120-volt-capability.  The sole source of power for driving the Focus Electric is the electric engine which means you have truly zero emissions.  The braking system is used as a generator to recover energy during deceleration or braking to recharge the lithium-ion battery.  The combination of the electric motor and single-speed transmission propels Focus Electric and delivers real driving enjoyment.  And remember electric vehicles offers 100% of the available torque right off the line.

The drive train of the electric Focus is front-wheel drive and has been paired with a 107-kW electric motor.  The regenerative braking system helps to capture energy that would normally be lost through heat in normal braking systems.  The Focus Electric has electric power-assisted with pull-drift compensation and active nibble control to keep you on the road feeling secure.  

Gresham Ford explains Fords efforts to develop plant based plastics

Ford has aligned their research and development with other consumer companies to better utilize plant based plastics.  Ford is already using a soy based bio-foam that has taken the place of nearly 5 million pounds of petroleum annually in the production of new Ford vehicles.  The all new redesigned 2013 Ford Escape contains at least 20 recycled water bottles that have been repurposed into the carpet of the vehicle.  Those in the Northwest appreciate efforts to make our community and environment a healthy better place.  The lightweight plastics are durable and have allowed Ford to further increase the fuel efficiency of the cars and trucks offered by Gresham Ford.

Ford has built a fleet of alternative fuel vehicles that fit Oregon

Ford has been developing eco-friendly vehicles with green technology for decades.  We now see the attention to green detail in many of the Ford products like the new generation Police Interceptors that have soy based sustainable foam in the seats.  This green foam holds up better to the abuse and heavy wear of daily police duty as well as helping to protect our environment.  Oregon has always been on the cutting edge of environmentally friendly and sustainable practices and Ford's alternative fuel vehicles compliment that endeavor.  Drivers don't have to sacrifice performance for efficiency because Ford provides both!  The Ford Global Electrification strategy includes plans to launch five new full electric, hybrid, or plug-in hybrid vehicles in the compact midsize and even light commercial segments by the end of this year.  Gresham Ford will be receiving our first Electric Focus by the end of next month and are excited to share this advanced technology vehicle with Oregon.  Visit your Oregon Ford dealer, like Gresham Ford to also check out the all new 2013 Ford C-Max gas hybrid and plug-in hybrid coming later this year.

Exciting things are in the works and now it is easier and cost effective to own an electric car and reduce our foriegn dependence on oil.

Electrification Forward with Gresham Ford

Ford has been in the hybrid business for quite some time now and unlike some competitors, today we have a variety of electrified offerings.  That's because our extensive electrification strategy brings to market a choice of electrified vehicles, each designed to meet a range of customer needs.  From the pure electric Focus to the plug-in hybrid Fusion Energi, what you will find at Ford are real cars that offer a range of electrified powertrain options.  C-Max joins the Ford family of vehicles as our first exclusive hybrid line in North America.

C-Max Hybrid will arrive at Gresham Ford in late September 2012 and will be taken to a number of local government agencies to receive their own personal test drive.  The C-Max Hybrid transitions power seamlessly between its highly efficient gasoline engine and its electric traction motor to deliver a strong balance of performance and efficiency.  The highly efficient 2.0L Atkinson cycle I-4 cylinder engine has been paired with the electric traction motor to provide a great option for those traveling over 100+ miles per day.  For instance this would be a fantastic delivery vehicle or even a taxi.  This model seats 7 comfortably while providing the environmental efficiency of a hybrid.  A high voltage lithium-ion battery pack delivers advanced performance from the projected 188 net hybrid system horsepower.  The regenerative braking system recovers over 90 percent of braking energy normally lost through brake friction and uses it to help charge the battery.

Ford has made a number of Hybrid Technology Advancements and Gresham Ford is proud to share them.  The C-Max is powered by the next generation hybrid system that features a variety of progressive advantages.  Highlights of the new powertrain include things like: a new lightweight high voltage lithium-ion battery system.  The advanced air cooling system that helps to regulate the battery temperature and helps maximize battery life.  Powerspilt hybrid architecture that harmoniously manages power from the gasoline engine of the electric traction motor, maximizing efficiency.  The Hybrid C-Max offers an impressive top speed of 62 mph when in electric mode only.  Did you know that carpet in the C-Max is 100 percent recycled polyester fibers?  The average Ford vehicles contains 40 recycled parts.

Ford's Eco Efforts improve fuel economy

2.2 million pounds of rubber from 210,000 used tires have been utilized in the making of seals and gaskets.  1,675 tons of total weight has been removed from Ford vehicles on the road as a result of modifications to improve fuel efficiency.  3 million pounds of annual petroleum consumption has been reduced in large part to the use of biomaterials in Ford vehicles.  4.1 million pounds of recycled carpet has been recovered through the use of EcoLon material in head covers.  All of these technological advanced have been utilized with the arrival of the 2013 Ford C-Max with its progressively powered hybrid with an advanced lithium-ion battery system that effectively enhances fuel economy.  The five passenger, multi-activity vehicle also offers interior versatility with a fold-flat second-row seat and a hands-free lift gate.

The C-MAX Hybrid powertrain system combines an efficient gasoline engine and a lithium-ion battery-driven electric motor designed for performance and fuel economy. Highlights of this green vehicle include: the 2.0L Atkinson-cycle I-4 gasoline engine that works with an electric traction motor with an advanced lithium-ion battery system.  The regenerative braking system captures 90% of braking energy otherwise lost to heat and sends it back to the battery.  This explains how the fuel economy in the city during stop and go traffic is better than the highway fuel economy.  The electronic Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (eCVT) also does wonders with the fuel economy, providing better fuel economy with the automatic transmission than the manual transmission.  Visit Gresham Ford Fleet for more information about available packages and to place your order.  

During the final days of 2008 Ford began the discussion about expanding their line of alternative fuel vehicles.  Having successfully delivered hybrid variations of the Fusion and Escape Ford now had the technology and background to take the next logical step to an all electric vehicle.  The Focus Electric instrument panel looks cool, but the car's true technology bragging point is the active-liquid cooled lithium ion battery.  Because extreme temperatures affect battery life, a new system was designed to keep the batteries at just the right level.  On hot days, the chilled water absorbs heat from the battery and on cold days the heated water raises the battery temperature.