Accelerate Mpls

Cop cars: No one really wants to see them in the rear view mirror, and yet everyone seems to slow down and gawk when someone else is pulled over.  For a long time, the Ford Crown Victoria, known as the Police Interceptor, has been the police vehicle of choice; with a body on frame design and rear wheel drive these cars were street tanks.  Pulling bent frames, replacing panels, rebuilding and replacing rear ends has become commonplace for police departments.  In all reality, we knew the current Crown Victoria would not soldier on forever and reality has finally set in for the Crown Vic.  Currently, the Chevrolet Impala and Dodge Charger are both being sold for police duty but Ford’s Crown Victoria is still the reigning champ when it comes to the number of police vehicles on the road. But, current Dodge Charger police vehicles walk all over the current Crown Victoria in performance.

New Caprice PPV

Last October, Chevrolet showed off the upcoming Caprice PPV (police patrol vehicle).  This vehicle is based off the Zeta platform, the same platform the now dead Pontiac G8 was based off of.  GM is utilizing the long wheel base version of this platform currently being used in the Caprice in the Middle East market.  GM says that this vehicle will only be sold for police use.  They interior has been modified for police duty, including the seats which are designed to accommodate utility belts.  The center stack is designed to allow a computer to be installed along with the high technology needed. A large touch screen is optional and will take up almost the entire center stack. In the rest of the vehicle, the trunk measures 18.5 cubic feet.  For power, the engine will initially be a one choice E85 capable 6.0 liter. V8 pushing out 355 hp and 385 lb-ft of torque channeled through a six speed automatic to the rear wheels.  After about, a year a V6 should join the engine line up.  Of course, all the heavy duty upgrades will be implemented such as brakes, alternator, transmission and other bits, all upgraded for police use.

Interior of the new Caprice PPV

New Ford Police Interceptor

Last week, Ford unveiled the replacement for the Crown Dinosaur, which happens to essentially be a police duty Taurus.  Of course, this will not be called the Taurus, rather it will be known as the new Ford Police Interceptor.  Like the consumer Taurus, the new Police Interceptor will come in either front wheel or all wheel drive with the same base 3.5 liter, V6 pushing 263 hp and 250+ ft-lb of torque, or the optional Ecoboost V6 pushing out 365 hp and 355 ft-lb.  The base V6 routes the power to the two front wheels while the optional Ecoboost will route the power to all four wheels.  Ford has said that a police vehicle needs ‘cop brakes, a cop motor and cop suspension’.  Apparently, the new Taurus either met these requirements or has had the necessary upgrades to meet the demands.  Additionally, the seats are new and, like the Chevrolet PPV, they are designed to let an officer sit comfortably with their utility belts on.  The trunk measures in at 20.1 cubic feet.  Ford is boasting about how the new Police Interceptor can withstand a 75 mile per hour rear impact: an industry first.  Ford also promised that another Police Interceptor model would be unveiled later this year.  That model would be a utility vehicle of some sorts most likely based off the upcoming new Explorer or the Flex, both of which are variations on the Taurus platform.

Interior of the new Police Interceptor

Current Generation Dodge Charger Police Package

A new Dodge Charger should be unveiled sometime later this year as the new 2011 Charger is scheduled to start production in November.  As the current Charger is gaining traction in the police vehicle market, you can be assured the next generation Charger will have a police package available.  The current Charger uses the 5.7 liter Hemi V8 pushing 368 hp and 410 ft-lb through a five speed automatic transmission.  The interior does not have seats specifically designed for the officer like the new offerings.  The next Charger will, undoubtedly, have more specific police officer focused interior amenities.

Carbon Motors E7

There is also an oddball player that is scheduled to enter the market.  Carbon Motors is set to bring a new type of police vehicle to market named the E7.  This is a all new car coming from an all new company.  The vehicle will utilize a 3.0 liter turbo diesel engine putting out 250 hp and 400 ft-lb with all the power being pushed to the rear wheels.  Some are claiming this vehicle might be capable of 30 mpg on the highway.  This car is the definition of high technology for the police, featuring a touch screen computer in the dash, LED police lights and suicide rear doors.  The back seat will be fully washable as it is made of hard plastic instead of vinyl like the competition.  Carbon Motors is claiming over 12,500 orders for the E7 (which is a codename while the car is in development) from 350 law enforcement agencies across the U.S..  The vehicle is scheduled to be produced in Connersville, Indiana.

A quick break down of the specs we know as they currently stand-

Ford Crown Vic -

239hp and 287 ft-lbs, RWD, 20.6 cubic ft trunk, rear leg room 38 in, 4127 lbs

Chevrolet PPV-

355hp and 385 ft-lbs, RWD, 18.5 cubic ft trunk, rear leg room 43.2 in, 4075 lbs

New Ford Police Interceptor-

263hp (365hp) and  249 ft-lbs (350 ft-lbs), FWD (AWD), 20.1 cubic ft trunk, rear leg room 38.1 in, 4015 lbs (4368 lbs)

Current Dodge Charger-

368hp and 410 ft-lbs, RWD, 16.2 cubic ft trunk, rear leg room 40.2 in, 3900 lbs

So, what we have here is a new war of the cop cars.  While I do not doubt the Carbon Motors E7 will come to market, I wonder at what cost.  The vehicle is technology laden and that is probably going to be its largest issue.  The Taurus is a heavy car and adding all wheel drive adds complexity to the drivetrain.  Long term, the all wheel drive will add cost to the ownership for police departments along with those twin turbos.

I think that many markets in the snow belt, such as the Northeastern part of the U.S. and Minnesota, Detroit, Illinois and others, will embrace the optional all wheel drive in the Taurus and that the rest of the market share will most likely shift to the Chevrolet PPV.  The next generation Dodge Charger will undoubtedly sell some police units and I am sure the Carbon E7 will sell, but it is too early to tell in what numbers.  According to Ford, the police market gobbles up nearly 60,000-70,000 vehicles per year!  My sources tell me that the PPV, with the V8 costing approximately $17,000-$18,000 to the fleets, you can take about $1,000-$2,000 off that price when the V6 launches.  Time will tell who wins this war but without a question, it will be interesting to watch.  Leave your thoughts in the comments.

2011 Chrysler 300 Interior

Dates have been leaked out onto Allpar, a site devoted to all things Chrysler past and present, with the production start dates for many of the new or refreshed Chrysler/Dodge/Ram/Jeep models.

Things to note:

• The LX based cars now have the same date as each other
• It was originally stated that production of the new Charger and 300C would be staggered and now they are pegged to enter production simultaneously
• The Wrangler date has also been moved up slightly
• Rumors now peg the 200C name plate to be replacing the Sebring name
• The Avenger name may soldier on for the Dodge counterpart

Production Start Dates:

2010 Viper – March 29

2011 Ram Chassis Cab – April 5

2011 Grand Cherokee – May 10

2011 Ram 1500/2500 – July 5 (one plant; second plant for Ram 1500 starts July 26)

2011 Caliber, Dakota, Liberty, Nitro – July 26

2011 Wrangler – August 16

2011 Jeep Patriot – October 4

2011 Dodge CUV (Durango replacement, possibly Magnum) – November 8

2011 Journey, Ram 1500 Hybrid – November 16

2011 Avenger  (Sebring?) – November 18

2011 Minivans – November 22

2011 Charger, Challenger, 300 – November 30

2011 Jeep Compass, 2012 Fiat 500 – December 13

2011 Dodge Charger Gauge Cluster

Source- AllPar

At one point or another we all wanted to be Batman.  Not only that, we wanted to drive the batmobile.  One of my college friends has just such a dream.  Not because he wants to drive the batmobile (well sure don’t we all), but because he wants to use it to bring good to people.  My friend has this idea of building the original batmobile.

I know this sounds like a crazy pipe dream but let me tell you about this guy.  His name is Alexander Grgurich.  In college we joked we would own a Maybach (shhh I know I would never want to own one).  He is a leader and entrepreneur in the Des Moines, IA area.  In college he started a very successful party bus company.  Taking it from one old school bus into a company with a fleet of seven party buses during his sophomore year and just recently he sold it.  He then ran for office and was elected to the Norwalk City Council while cramming for finals in his senior year.  Alex currently sits as the director of Foundry Coworking which is a shared office space facility.  Alex dreamed of this and made the Foundry Coworking a reality.  He raised the capital and made it all happen.  All this at the young age of 23.

Alex approached me and told me his dream.  I could already see the wheels were set in motion.  Being like everyone else, I thought instantly what an awesome idea building the original batmobile would be.  Alex’s dream is to build the batmobile and it would be used to bring joy to kids, area charities, parades and really anything else where crime fighting is needed.  Of course Batman and Robin sold separately.

Now here comes the plug, Alex has done all the leg work.  He just needs the funds. Alex reached out to the original prop builder in Tampa who took custom molds off the original batmobile.  Alex will go down to Tampa and bring the custom fabricated parts back to Des Moines, Iowa.  A team of fabricators has already been assembled to finish the job once the parts are back in Des Moines.  Alex set a goal and if the money is not raised by April 21 at 12:59 am no money donated will exchange hands.  Not only that, but the dream and good intentions will never see fruition.  I say lets make this a reality.  If everyone donates just five dollars, a mere five dollars this could happen.  Spread the word.  Think about it, some you probably spend almost that much at a coffee shop multiple times a week.  Skip a coffee or even more and donate today.  Think of what this could do for charity events and other events.  Creativity deserves to be embraced and this is no different.  Alex is a true entrepreneur and I am glad to call him my friend.

To learn more and donate click here or click below on the widget.

GM announced that they will be the first U.S. auto manufacture to build its own electric motors in house.  This will lead to the next generation rear wheel drive 2 mode hybrid system.  That should be hitting the market sometime around 2013.  GM says they realize that we need to lessen our dependence on petroleum and that they have a wide array of alternative energy solutions in mind.  Those solutions include-

• Mild Hybrids- GM hybrid system
• Full Hybrids- 2 Mode hybrid system
• Plug-In Hybrids (PHEV)- Modified 2 mode hybrid system
• Extended-Range Electric Vehicles (EREV)- Voltec system
• Battery Electric
• Fuel Cell

The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) was recently shown on the Cadillac XTS Concept vehicle at NAIAS (Detroit Auto Show).  This system is scheduled to hopefully debut on the production XTS in 2013.

GM says they plan to invest a total of $246 million in electric motors and electric drive facilities.  $2 million will be spent in Pontiac, MI for the electromagnetic computational facilities while $26 million will be spent for the development and validation dynamometer facilities.  Indianapolis will be receiving $10 million for development and validation dynamometer facilities.  Torrence, CA will receive $6 million for characterization and development dynamometer facilities.  Another yet to be disclosed U.S. location will receive money for a high volume electric motor manufacturing facility.

GM says that since 2003 they have “quietly” been testing, designing, and validating their capabilities in house to develop and produce the electric motors themselves.  Using suppliers means relying on someone else.  They like the mantra “If you want it done right, do it yourself.”  Personally I am a huge fan of this saying.  Also mentioned was the fact that they will work with “their best suppliers” to produce the best product possible.

Click read more for the full press release after the break.

continue reading…

2011 Lincoln MKX

The current Lincoln MKX is not a bad vehicle.  It is just not an outstanding vehicle.  It has decent looks on the exterior with a nice interior but lots of hard plastic.  The engine is nothing to write home about and nothing really stand out overall.  Lincoln is looking to change all that with the new 2011 MKX.

The 2011 MKX will be the first vehicle to feature MyLincoln.  This is the system that was revealed last week at CES.  It works in conjunction with the latest iteration of Microsoft SYNC.  The MyLincoln system takes the MyFord system one step further with sliders.  Customers can swipe their finger along the screen to change stereo volume or fan temperature.  In addition to the standard HD radio, you now have iTunes tagging which is a first in a factory installed HD radio.  When you hear a song you like you can push the TAG button.  The songs information is then stored on the cars stereo.  When an iPod is plugged into the SYNC system it transfers the song information (up to 100 songs can be stored at a time).  When the iPod is plugged into a computer with iTunes next it will transfer this new playlist and you may purchase the songs.

MyLincoln

Other technologies included in the new MKX include adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support.  A blind spot information system along with Cross Traffic Alert is a feature that can help detect vehicles in your blind spot.  The cross traffic alert system can help detect traffic approaching from the sides when reversing out of parking spots.  Lincoln’s MyKey and Easy Fuel Capless fuel system are also standard.

The exterior of the 2011 MKX is modern with flowing design.  The design is embracing the signature Lincoln split-wing grille.  The body has new brightwork and the treatments for taillamps and exhaust tips finish off the new look.  18 inch wheels are now standard while 20 inch wheels are optional.  The new rear taillamps are now two distinct pieces that are employing an indirect LED system which hides the light source while still allowing light to shine through.  The exhaust tips are now 4-inches in diameter.

Ford’s internal preliminary data show the 2011 MKX scores better in speech recognition, wind noise and sound package than competitors from Lexus and Audi.  Lincoln is utilizing sound pack and acoustic glass the reduce noise levels inside the MKX.

Larger brake rotors are included in the refresh for enhanced braking power.  Also included are key brake related features.  Hill Start Assist which helps reduce rollback on hills while Trailer Sway Control helps with towing stability.

The 2011 MKX is getting more power and better efficiency which is never a bad combination.  Power is being supplied by a 3.7 liter Duratec V6.  This 3.7 liter is not low tech, featuring Ti-VCT (Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing) which helps increase horsepower and torque while improving fuel economy.  The 3.7 liter will provide best in class power over other competitors V6’s while achieving best in class 25 mpg on the highway all on regular fuel.  Pushing out 305 hp and 280 ft-lb to either the front wheels or through optional all wheel drive.  The power is handled through a six speed SelectShift automatic with manual shift capabilities.  The manual mode the transmission does not over ride the drivers selection.  Upshifts will not come at redline if the driver does not request them.

“Everything about the 2011 Lincoln MKX is vibrant and luxurious,” said Bannon. “Our MyLincoln Touch system will draw people in, helping them discover that the new Lincoln MKX delivers a total driving experience not found anywhere else.”

More power, luxury refinement are things that are necessary to stay in the game.  Lincoln is playing for keeps and bringing all of the necessary changes.  It seems the luxury crossover market keeps heating up and it looks like things just got a bit hotter.

2012 Ford Focus Sedan

The Focus has been a staple in the Ford line up since 1998. Originally available as both a sedan and a hatch, the car was versatile and overall a great value. Things have changed in recent years and the Focus is currently only available in sedan form. Further along those lines of change, the car is no longer the game changer it once was. Ford is looking to change all that with this next generation Focus.

2012 Ford Focus Sedan

The new Focus will be the car that truly launches and embodies the “ONE Ford” strategy. That is one car sold globally. Focus will share over 80% of its parts with the European version. Even further, the European model and U.S. model will launch at the same time. Production will start simultaneously in Europe and North America in late 2010 with sales beginning in early 2011. The platform will be used for 10 global C-class cars. This will amount to almost two million units in annual production by 2012.

2012 Focus 5 Door Hatchback

Arriving both in sedan and hatchback form the Focus will target exceptional fuel economy while advancing the level of technology and quality in a C-segment vehicle. The Focus will feature kinetic design language recently seen on the new Fiesta. “The all-new Focus is at the center of convergence for automotive trends,” said J Mays, Ford group vice president of Design and chief creative officer. “We’ve designed it with an acute understanding of global customers, yet it’s tailored for each individual region. Focus combines the best from Europe, North America and Asia to deliver a level of emotional driving enjoyment never before experienced in a car this size.”

2012 Ford Focus 5 Door Hatchback

Ford is promising new levels of agility and responsiveness being brought to the C-segment with the new Focus. Utilizing multilink rear suspension and semi-isolated front and rear subframes, Ford is saying this will help achieve the desired driving characteristics. Complimenting all this is a all new electric power steering system. This system has been tuned for responsiveness at highway speeds while still remaining light for parking lot speeds.

2012 Ford Focus Sedan

The global powertrain line up in the new Focus will have everything from an EcoBoost four cylinder to a Duratorq TDCi common rail diesel. The North American Focus will launch with a all new DOHC 2.0 liter gasoline engine featuring both DI (Direct Injection) and Ti-VCT (Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing). This 2.0 liter is estimated to put out 155 hp and 145 ft-lb through a six speed PowerShift transmission. PowerShift is Ford’s new dual clutch transmission that is also being used in the new 2011 Fiesta. The new 2.0 liter will be E85 capable unlike most engines with DI.

PowerShift 6 speed transmission

2012 Focus Interior

The PowerShift dual dry clutch transmission is sealed. The transmission is said to be maintenance free. The removal of pumps and hoses not only saves weight but helps achieve better fuel economy. Additionally, the new Focus will feature a Hill Start Assist function. This system is sensor based and will activate when an incline is greater then 3 percent. The system will “hold” the brakes for an “instant” (2.5 seconds) which will prevent rollback when stopping or starting on an incline.

The innovative MyFord system announced last week at CES will be available on the new Focus. This will compliment the latest generation Microsoft SYNC system which includes a sophisticated voice control system, bluetooth, and satellite navigation.

2012 Focus Interior

“When the new Focus launches in late 2010, it will be among the global leaders in fuel economy and CO₂ emissions,” said Kuzak. “We will continue to pioneer new technologies beyond launch, including a true zero-emission model launching in North America in 2011. Throughout its life cycle, Focus in all forms, in all regions, will demonstrate the Ford commitment to deliver unsurpassed fuel economy on a truly global scale.”

High strength steel is used heavily in the next generation Focus especially in the body shell. The high strength steel comprises 55 percent of the body shell. More then 26 percent of the vehicles overall structure is ultra high strength steel and Boron Steel. This is more then any other Ford product to date. This helps with safety and weight. Due to the extensive use of these materials, the next generation Focus has 25 percent greater torsion rigidity.

“We believe the new Ford Focus will provide consumers with an unmatched driving experience, together with an unrivaled ownership experience,” said Jim Farley, Ford group vice president, Global Marketing. “The Focus brand always has been very special to Ford, and this new global model shows our commitment to developing another generation of exciting and appealing cars.”

The Focus promising to be a lot of things. On paper it sounds great. It even has room for growth with future engines like a sport EcoBoost model in North America perhaps, or possibly a SVT version. The fact remains, we as Americans have been asking for the Focus that Europe has had for years. It seems we will be receiving a car that is in large part just that.  The new Focus should have Honda and Toyota up at night.

The concept behind MyFord is driver connect technology that will redesign the driver’s interface and how they interact with the car.  This is fusing together consumer electronics ease of use and the rich graphics interfaces used in them.

“MyFord Touch, combined with new SYNC functionality, creates an experience that will cause people to fall in love with their vehicles again,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. “It’s not just a technology; it’s an experience – one we hope will have people across the globe looking forward to spending time behind the wheel of their vehicle.”

MyLincoln Touch

MyFord will be branded MyLincoln and MyMercury in the respective brands.  This will not be brand exclusive rather just exclusive to the Ford brands.

MyFord Touch 3D Navigation

The MyFord Touch system will be used with an available 8-inch touch screen LCD at the top of the center stack.  Also information will be displayed using two 4.2-inch on both sides of the speedometer.  Five way switches will be on each side of the steering wheel controlling the corresponding 4.2-inch screens.

“The steering wheel has all the necessary functions available in a very compact area, right where your hand falls as you grab the wheel,” said Johnson. “The five-way buttons will feel familiar to anyone who has used a mobile phone or MP3 player. Drivers aren’t forced to use a quirky or unfamiliar interface like a joystick or rotary knob.”

The left 4.2-inch display will feature information and settings for the vehicle, fuel economy, mechanical status and safety features.  The right 4.2-inch display will feature infotainment information, audio settings, climate control, phone communications and navigation menus.  The features in the right hand display will also be available in the 8-inch center stack display.  This display will replace many traditional buttons.  The MyLincoln will take the 8-inch display a step further by providing fingertip slider controls on the touch screen.  These sliders will control the audio volume and or fan speed.  When using your finger on the slider a LED chaser will give visual representation as to the changes being made.

The 8-inch touchscreen in the center stack is the key to this interface Utilizing a “four-corner” solution to the layout design.  The four corners are phone, navigation, climate and audio/entertainment functions.  Touching the desired corner will always bring up the corresponding application no matter what screen you are currently in.  Voice commands can be used to adjust most controls.

The next generation of Microsoft’s SYNC system is behind the scenes running the show.  This is no longer a add on black box.  SYNC is now a fully integrated part of the car.  MyLincoln will be standard in all future Lincoln’s beginning with the 2011 Lincoln MKX.  MyFord technology will be available in all future Ford products.  Ford pretty much just announced the iPhone of car technology.

Features available through MyFord Touch, powered by SYNC include:

2011 Ford Mustang GT New 5.0 V8

The 2011 Mustang already had one large announcement last month about the new 3.7L V6.  With the new V6 putting out almost as much horsepower as the current V8 you did not think Ford was going to leave the V8 alone did you?  Of course not, the 2011 Mustang GT will receive an all new 5.0L V8 pushing out 412 hp and 390 ft-lb of torque.  What was important about that last sentence is simple, the 5.0 is back! This is no old school V8, modern technologies are in full force to help achieve an estimated 17/25 mpg (with the six speed automatic).  That 25 mpg rating on the highway is 1 more mpg then the Camaro SS with the six speed automatic.  Though slightly down on horsepower to the Camaro SS, the Mustang has a distinct weight advantage.

2011 Ford Mustang GT (Notice 5.0 Fender Badges)

Some of the new technologies packed into the new 2011 Mustang GT’s 5.0 were recently implemented in the new 3.7L V6 Mustang.  Both feature Ti-VCT (twin independent variable camshaft timing) new six speed transmissions (both automatic and manual), and electric power steering.  The new 5.0 will receive a large capacity deep sump oil pan.  This enables sustained high rpm use and what Ford believes to be a 10,000 mile oil change interval.  Handling should be slightly improved with the use of the stiffened rear stabilizer and improved rear lower control arms.

2011 Ford Mustang GT 5.0

The new 5.0 is a huge step forward for the Mustang GT.  The 2010 GT used a 4.6L V8 pushing out a mere 315 hp and 325 ft-lb of torque.  The new 5.0 is pushing out a full 97 more hp and 65 more ft-lb of torque.  More power with the same if not better gas milage (depending on transmission choice) is quite impressive.  Both the automatic and manual transmissions are six speeds.  The manual is estimated to achieve 16/24 mpg which is the same milage as the 4.6L.  The automatic, as stated earlier, is estimated to provide 17/25 mpg which is 2 more mpg on the highway then the 4.6L.  The speedometer has been increased to 160 mpg while the redline has been moved up from 6,500 rpm to 7,000 rpm.

The new 5.0 V8 engine is not the only new thing for the 2011 GT.  New colors offered include Yellow Blaze Tri-Coat, Race Red, and Ingot Silver.  Also the fenders adorn a 5.0 badge heralding the return of the  5.0 V8 engine.  For enthusiasts a Brembo brake package with 14 inch rotors and larger calipers will be offered from the Shelby GT500 Mustang.  Finishing off this package will be 19 inch wheels with summer performance tires.  New convenience content is also on the 2011 Mustang including standard message center, integrated blind spot, MyKey programmable key, illuminated visors, universal garage door opener, and sun visor storage.

This overview provided to the press sums up the changes to the 2011 Mustang GT quite well.  “This powertrain honors Mustang’s heritage by raising the bar on performance while increasing fuel economy,” said Barb Samardzich, vice president, Powertrain Development.  The bottom line is simple, with the new V6 and V8 engines for 2011, the Mustang is closing the competitive gap left by the new Camaro.  The next step is that solid rear axle.

Boss 302R

The BOSS is back and ready to race!  A factory track ready race machine for SCCA, Grand-Am, and NASA classes.  Utilizing the new 2011 Mustang GT 5.0 V8 the new BOSS 302R base model will come with a six speed manual transmission, roll cage, race seats, safety harness, data acquisition and race dampers/springs, and Brembo brake and tire package.  The BOSS 302R will be sold as a serialized off-road only vehicle.  2010 marks the 40th anniversary of Parnelli Jones 1970 Trans-Am championship in a BOSS 302 Mustang.  That particular vehicle was made by Bud Moore Engineering.

Ford provided this statement which sums up why this new vehicle exists.  “To keep pace with consumer demand, the Ford team has built modern versions of the most iconic performance Mustangs over the years,” said Jamie Allison, director, Ford North America Motorsports. “From Shelbys to Bullitt, Mach and Cobra Jet, it is now time for BOSS to join the list of America’s most coveted Mustangs. The original BOSS 302 was a championship-winning legend and the new Mustang BOSS 302R will carry on the tradition. The Mustang was born to race from the start, and this new Mustang is bred to win.”

A total of 50 BOSS 302R Mustangs will be built by Ford Racing.  You can order one through your local Ford dealership with a MSRP of $79,000.  Deliveries are scheduled for Q3 of 2010.

Ford announced yesterday morning that all the major parts of a deal to sell Volvo to Geely have been settled.  They made it clear that details will not be made public yet, but that the deal will be signed in Q1 of 2010 and the sale will be done in Q2.

Many have speculated that Volvo would be sold to Geely and now it is a reality.  Some people seemed concerned about Geely’s resources for the future of Volvo.  When people raised concerns to Ford they responded with “the prospective sale would ensure Volvo has the resources, including the capital investment, necessary to further strengthen the business and build its global franchise.”  Geely is a Chinese car manufacturer and that worries some people as well.  Not known for quality or safety, many question what Geely brings to Volvo.  It seems Volvo brings things for Geely, mainly the safety technology.

With new product just arriving from Volvo (2010 XC60) and more coming soon (new S60) Geely bought Volvo at a decent time.  Some of the model line just received a face lift or is new/coming.  Chinese car companies have not made it into the U.S. and many are afraid this is the beginning to a bad thing.  While that is a valid concern as I mentioned earlier Geely is not known for safety or reliability.  Two things that many car shoppers care about these days.

Twitter was a buzz yesterday morning when the news of the sale hit.  Many Volvo fanatics were angered and saddened.  I even heard some say “There went Volvo.”  We have to examine what happened in a similar situation with Jaguar/Land Rover.  Tata bought the brands from Ford and really did not make many changes.  They liked what planned.  Deciding to take a wait and see approach is not a terrible idea.  So far it has worked for Tata and Jaguar/Land Rover is rolling out refreshed or new product.  Sales are up, and everyone seems to be happy.  If Geely plays things smart, they will let Volvo be themselves and stay somewhat hands off.  If left alone and not interfered with, Volvo could become profitable.

Something to keep in mind about this whole deal is platforms.  Many Fords ride on Volvo platforms.  They share so many, the deal must have clauses in place for platform sharing for at least the foreseeable future until new models arrive.  I assume the platform sharing will cease at in the future.  Other things are shared such as BLIS.  BLIS is Volvo’s blind spot detection system that Volvo developed and uses.  Ford has stated that they intend to work “closely” with Geely in the future.  For how long no one really knows but it can easily be assumed it is because of all the sharing of technology and platforms.

Ford has to be happy right now.  They have no off loaded all the brands in their premier portfolio including Aston Martin, Jaguar/Land Rover, and now Volvo.  They have been trying to sell all of these and have now accomplished just that.  Letting them get the focus back on Ford, Mercury, and Lincoln.

Ford’s press release is below-

PRESS RELEASE:

DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 23, 2009 – Ford Motor Company [NYSE: F] confirmed today that all substantive commercial terms relating to the potential sale of Volvo Car Corporation have been settled between Ford and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Company Limited.

While some work still remains to be completed before signing – including final documentation, financing and government approvals – Ford and Geely anticipate that a definitive sale agreement will be signed in the first quarter of 2010, with closing of the sale likely to occur in the second quarter 2010, subject to appropriate regulatory approvals.

The prospective sale would ensure Volvo has the resources, including the capital investment, necessary to further strengthen the business and build its global franchise, while enabling Ford to continue to focus on and implement its core ONE Ford strategy.

While Ford would continue to cooperate with Volvo Cars in several areas after a possible sale, the company does not intend to retain a shareholding in the business post-sale.

More details will be made available once the expected definitive sale agreement is signed in the first quarter of 2010.