Labels: 2010 Fusion, 2010 Fusion Hybrid, electric cars, Escape Hybrid, ford motor company, Marion County Ford dealer, www.fordocala.net, www.fordofocala.com

WASHINGTON - The tax credit for hybrid passenger automobiles and light trucks manufactured by Ford Motor Company has begun to phase out for purchases made after March 31, 2009.
Taxpayers may claim the full amount of the credit only on purchases made before April 1, 2009, because the total number of vehicles sold reached the 60,000 vehicle threshold in the last quarter of 2008. The cumulative sales of qualified Ford hybrid vehicles sold from the period of Jan. 1, 2006, to Dec. 31, 2008 is 66,157.
For vehicles purchased for use or lease on or after April 1, 2009, and on or before Sept. 30, 2009, the credit is 50 percent of the full amount. For vehicles purchased for use or lease on or after Oct. 1, 2009, and on or before March 31, 2010, the credit is 25 percent of the full amount. For vehicles purchased for use or lease on or after April 1, 2010, no credit is allowable.

The full credit amount for vehicle purchases made prior to April 1, 2009 is:
2005, 2006, 2007 Ford Escape 2WD, $2,600;
2008, 2009 Ford Escape 2WD, $3,000;
2005, 2006, 2007, 2009 Ford Escape 4WD, $1,950;
2008 Ford Escape 4WD, $2,200;
2010 Ford Fusion, $3,400;
2008, 2009 Mercury Mariner 2WD, $3,000;
2006, 2007, 2009 Mercury Mariner 4WD, $1,950;
2008 Mercury Mariner 4WD, $2,200;
2010 Mercury Milan, $3,400

Labels: Ford Hybrids, ford motor company, green cars, IRS, Marion County Ford dealer, Tax Incentives, www.fordocala.net, www.fordofocala.com

It may take a little longer to load up but it is Harry Smith interviewing Ford's CEO Alan Mulally. Just more reasons why your next ride should come from Ford of Ocala!

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Labels: ford motor company, Marion County Ford dealer, www.fordocala.net, www.fordofocala.com

The dual clutch gearbox installed in the Lincoln Concept C and Volvo S60 Concept that debuted at the Detroit Auto Show is now officially coming to Ford's lineup. The Getrag-supplied PowerShift gearbox was hinted at on the Fiesta micro-site that Ford recently launched and will be available in the new sub-compact when it launches at the end of the year. Like the DSG units used in a number of Volkswagens, the PowerShift allows full automatic control or clutchless manual shifting. Ford's first PowerShift is already available in the current European Focus with a 2.0L diesel engine. That unit is a wet-clutch system like most of the current VW DSG boxes. The new unit set to debut in the Fiesta is a dry-clutch system that's both lighter and more efficient. The 6-speed PowerShift weighs 30 lbs less than the 4-speed automatic currently offered in the U.S.-market Focus and should deliver 9-percent better fuel economy.

Labels: ford motor company, www.fordocala.net, www.fordofocala.com

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24/7 for your best deal on new or pre-owned vehicles NOW!

Labels: clearance on cars, employee pricing, employee pricing plus, ford motor company, natural gas savings, www.fordocala.net, www.fordofocala.com

Labels: ford motor company, ford of ocala, marion county ford, Ocala Florida, Shelby Mustang

Ford Motor Company has earned more “Top Safety Pick” ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) than any other automaker with a total of 16 to date. Ford surpassed its closest rival Honda this week when four of its 2009 models – Ford Flex, Ford Fusion, Lincoln MKS and Mercury Milan – achieved “Top Safety Pick” ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Ford also has more 5-star government crash test ratings than any other automaker.How They Get PickedTo earn IIHS’s “Top Safety Pick,” vehicles must earn the top “good” ratings in the institute’s high-speed front and side crash tests, and a rear crash test simulation that evaluates seat and head restraints. An added requirement since 2007 is that vehicles also must offer electronic stability control.Helping Drivers Maintain ControlFlex, MKS, Fusion and Milan excelled in each of the institute’s crash tests, and AdvanceTrac® electronic stability control is available for each vehicle. The safety system uses sensors to detect and measure yaw, or side-to-side skidding conditions, by monitoring the vehicle’s speed, throttle position and steering wheel angle. When AdvanceTrac® senses wheel slip, engine torque is reduced and braking is applied where needed to help the driver keep the car tracking on its intended path. IIHS has stated that “AdvanceTrac significantly reduces crash risk by helping drivers maintain control of their vehicles during emergency maneuvers.”Structural Strength Is a Safety FundamentalFlex, MKS, Fusion and Milan get some of their core strength from the use of lightweight aluminum-coated boron steel – one of the strongest weld-able materials – in the body structure. The use of high-strength steel in the B-pillars is only part of their robust safety profile. Ford engineers also located the side door intrusion beams to help manage and absorb energy during side impact crashes.

Labels: 2009, ford, ford flex, ford fusion, ford motor company, IIHS Top Safety Pick, lincoln, Lincoln MKS, Mecury Milan, mercury

Its official launch still being months away, the Ford Motor Company's new crossover, Flex, is already flexing its muscles. The Flex is a huge hit on the Coasts. "I've already got people showing interest to buy them," said Beau Boeckmann, vice-president of Los Angeles' Galpin Ford, the largest Ford dealership in the world. "Cool people. People who haven't bought a Ford forever." For details, contact Ford of Ocala at 2816 N W Pine Avenue Ocala, Florida 34475 or call at (800) 292-3338.

The Flex drew a lot of attention in New York last month during the auto show. Kate Pearce, marketing manager for the Flex, says the new Ford seems poised to be the sort of hit, the automaker was hoping for, as it starts to turn around its North American auto operations. "People are looking for something new and different, and this vehicle is really unlike anything else in the marketplace," she said. "The key is to give consumers the opportunity to see it in person."

After the New York auto show, the company left four prototype vehicles in the city. Ford drivers spent the next several days cruising around Manhattan to get the vehicle in front of potential customers. Every now and then, the drivers would pull over, let people get a closer look and take the opportunity to hand out the Flex's business card. Ford will put on similar road shows in other cities before the vehicle goes on sale in June. The Flex will be on the Strip in Las Vegas later this month, then in Los Angeles.

This kind of guerrilla marketing was Jim Farley's trademark when he launched Toyota Motor Company's Scion brand in 2003, with a miniscule marketing budget. Now, Farley is running sales and marketing for Ford, and is hoping to work some of the same magic with the Flex. Speaking to The Detroit News at the Los Angeles auto show in November, he called the full-size crossover "a vehicle only Ford could have produced". It is retro and modern at the same time, he said, adding it is "a marketers’ dream" because of its polarizing design. Farley is hoping that the Flex will build on the success of Ford's other new crossover, the Edge, introduced in 2006. Auto analyst Erich Merkle of IRN Inc. in Grand Rapids called the Flex "fresh" and "unique".

Flex to hit the roads by June-end

The Flex will arrive in dealerships at the end of June, but Ford has opened the order book already, in February, and has received more than 5,000 orders from around the country. Price will start under the $29,000. The early interest on the Coasts is important because consumers on both sides of the country have been big import buyers, especially in California, which has the country's largest vehicle content. For details, contact Ford of Ocala at 2816 N W Pine Avenue Ocala, Florida 34475 or call at (800) 292-3338.

Labels: 2008 ford, 2008 ford cars, 2008 ford flex, ford cars, ford motor company, used ford cars

- "Awesomeness!"
- "I have never, ever enjoyed a vehicle as much as I enjoy this one."
- "The absolute best part of this car is the SYNC system!"
- "You will not be disappointed. Did I mention that this car gets around 35 miles per
gallon as well?"

The 2008 Ford Focus is generating rave reviews among consumers as it enjoys a brisk sales pace. Focus sales were up 44 percent in January compared with a year ago. It's bolstering Ford’s share of the important small car market: Retail sales have been up every month (3) since the new model was introduced. Following are verbatim consumer reviews of the 2008 Ford Focus as posted on three top automotive research sites: http://www.autos.yahoo.com/, http://www.edmunds.com/ and http://www.autos.msn.com/

1. The Best Compact Car I’ve Known - "I've been driving Civic for 6 years and kind of tired of driving no-character car. Finally I was hooked up by the new Focus, especially the cool design. Unexpectedly, the interior was also neat and clean. Very quiet, too. I traded in my Civic with no regret. Frankly, I didn't know Ford has come this far matching, actually exceeding, Japanese sedans. Great work, Ford!" - posted by Mike on http://www.edmunds.com/

2. Inexpensive High Quality Car - "For the price and the discounts you get, this is the best buy in 2008, period. The cabin is super quiet, even when shifting gears (can barely hear the engine) and the shifting is smooth as butter. It handles awesome, the ride is very soft, has plenty of power, the seats are very comfortable, the Microsoft SYNC is just perfect. I have the Audiophile system and music sounds awesome with the built-in Subwoofer. Ambient lighting is great as well. Do yourself a favor. If you want to get a high quality inexpensive car, this is the one! Plus, the gas mileage is great. I am very happy with this car. Can't believe how quiet and smooth it is....Awesomeness!" - posted by Focused on http://www.edmunds.com/

3. Great Car - "This car has all the extra features of a luxury car at 1/2 the price. Heated seats, great stereo, Sirius radio, minimal road and wind noise (it has a very quiet interior), cool Sync system, nice leather seats, great handling and a good ride quality. All that and great gas mileage too." - posted by Chris from Walled Lake, Mich. on http://www.autos.yahoo.com/

4. 2008 Ford Focus is a definite WINNER!!! - "Wonderful re-design by Ford... this is my 5th Focus … and I think more than likely will be the best. I love the new styling inside and out …car design has been well thought out ... the interior is spacious and the "Sync" media system is great ... I own European and Japanese autos, but I really enjoy this car…this size and economy is great...the price ... wonderful ...THANKS FORD FOR A JOB WELL DONE !!" - posted by WB Samples from Raleigh, N.C. on http://www.autos.yahoo.com/

5. Need to Consider - "Very well put together, interior has improved in quality, noise is reduced greatly, drivability is awesome. Beats Corolla hands down, very good competitor for Civic." - posted by Chester to http://www.autos.msn.com/

6. Check Out the New Focus - "My daughter just purchased this car and I’ve driven it quite a bit. Appears to be very solid and well built. Nice acceleration even with automatic. (I have a 24V DOHC Taurus and the Focus impressed). On her first tank of gas she got 30.5 mpg in around town driving. Interior is nicely done. I’m impressed enough that if I were buying a new car it would be this. I think it’s a nice new change for the Focus." - posted by Fred on http://www.autos.msn.com/

7. 2008 Ford Focus SES Coupe - "I have owned all sorts of vehicles....Dodge, Ford, Toyota, Chevy, Mazda and BMW. I have never, ever enjoyed a vehicle as much as I enjoy this one. The cabin is SUPER quiet, even when shifting gears (can barely hear the engine) and the shifting is smooth as butter. It handles awesome, the ride is very soft, has plenty of power, the seats are very comfortable, the Microsoft SYNC easily plays all my artists on my Wolverine 5160 (160GB). It took about 5 minutes or so to index all the files, but when it finished, I asked it to play whatever artist I wanted and it responded beautifully. Hands-free phone conversation is another gem with this vehicle. The person on the other end can hear your voice perfectly. This is the real Bluetooth! I have the Audiophile system and music sounds awesome with the built in Subwoofer in the trunk. Also, Ambient lighting is great as well. Do yourself a favor. If you want to get a great vehicle that is inexpensive, but has quality to boot, please look into this car. You will not be disappointed. Did I mention that this car gets around 35 miles per gallon as well? I am so happy about this car....Can Ya Tell? It’s perfect in every way." - posted by Coozy from Hilton, NY on http://www.autos.yahoo.com/

8. 2008 Ford Focus SES (5-Speed) - "I use this car to commute to work in the winter (60 miles a day). The car is a gem! I am extremely impressed with the car comfort, ride, and handling (much better handling than I expected). It drives great here in the northwest wet, snow, and ice. With mixed city and highway driving I average 33mpg. The absolute best part of this car is the SYNC system! I have used it with my new 80GB Zune, a Gen 1 apple Nano, and music on several USB memory sticks. The audiophile audio system sounds amazing (I usually swap the stock speakers - but I think I will keep these). I love the hands free calling. Do not buy this car without the SYNC!" - posted by Mike from Seattle on http://www.autos.msn.com/

9. Good Little Car - "This little car is more than what I expected for the cost. I would have to say it moves nicely and does not have any issues getting around for a little 2.0 liter. I am happy to lower my payments as this is a great car for the money – I would choose it over a Honda Civic any day of the week. Our other car is a '06 Honda Accord and the Focus is quieter than my fully loaded V6 Accord. The interior is clean and well thought out as the controls with the satellite radio and Sync take a little getting used to. I will have to say that the Sync is far superior to the i-control of the BMW 5 series and the Honda Accord that I own….this is a gas saver and a great commuter car." - posted by Bryan to http://www.edmunds.com/

10. Great price / mpg - "I am completely satisfied with this car so far. I have only driven 430 miles but I love the way the car handles. I got the base model with the 5-speed manual transmission. I filled up at 400 miles so the mpg is as advertised. I love the styling and have had several compliments. I feel good driving this car. I needed an economical car that fit my budget and this was it!" - posted by Philip to http://www.edmunds.com/

Labels: 2008 Ford Focus, compact car, ford motor company, ford of ocala, high quality

Ford Motor Company, which has made much progress in hydrogen technology, now with its energy partner, BP, opened a second hydrogen station at Oviedo in Florida on December 11, 2007. With this, the Ford Motor Company, BP, and the state of Florida have marked an important milestone in their collective path towards the use of hydrogen as viable alternative fuel for the future. The station will fuel a fleet of Ford Focus fuel cell vehicles. The Ford Motor Company continues to support this project with the much needed infrastructure to fuel its vehicle fleet. This is another major milestone in this joint government and industry initiative.

One of the hydrogen-powered Ford Focus vehicles gives the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) park rangers a pollution-free ride during everyday operations at Wekiwa Springs State Park, which attracts nearly 185,000 visitors annually. Home to a handful of freshwater springs, the 8,000-acre park protects the headwaters of the Wekiva River. Two more vehicles are utilized by DEP`s Central Regulatory District for field inspections. Progress Energy`s energy-efficiency specialists and customer account managers are using the remaining three hydrogen-fueled cars at their Jamestown Operations Center.

The hydrogen demonstration project is part of an initiative unveiled in 2004 by the U.S. Department of Energy. Through the federal government`s Controlled Hydrogen Fleet and Infrastructure Demonstration and Validation Project, Ford supplied the Florida DEP and Progress Energy with six hydrogen-powered Ford Focus fuel cell vehicles. BP America supplies the cars with hydrogen fuel through a grant from the state of Florida.
Ford, Chevron and Progress Energy Florida opened the state`s first hydrogen station in Orlando in May. This station fuels four Ford Hydrogen-powered shuttle buses used at the Orlando airport and provides a test platform for showcasing the production, storage and dispensing of hydrogen fuel.

The company currently has a fleet of 30 hydrogen-powered Focus fuel cell vehicles on the road as part of a worldwide, seven-city program to conduct real world testing of fuel cell technology. The fleet has accumulated more than 650,000 miles since its inception. With this fleet on the ground, information is being generated in different local environmental conditions that can be integrated into future fuel cell vehicle propulsion systems.

As a hydrogen infrastructure is developed and implemented for the fleet at each of its locations, lessons learned are being generated to insure that the customer and hydrogen fueling interface is seamless and customer friendly.

For more information on this and any other Ford vehicles, please contact Ford of Ocala directly at (800) 292-3338.

Labels: Ford Focus vehicles, ford motor company, hydrogen technology, second hydrogen station

The 2008 Ford Focus brings a bold new look, a refined and flexible interior and a higher level of driving enjoyment to an evolving small car market.

The new Focus comes with a choice of two engines. The standard engine is a 140-horsepower 2.0-liter, Duratec 20 dual-overhead-cam (DOHC), inline 4-cylinder. There`s also a super-clean, 130-horsepower Duratec 20E engine that qualifies Focus as a Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV).

For the new 2008 Ford Focus, Ford`s design team drew inspiration from the highly successful Fusion, borrowing that car`s prominent chrome-bar grille design, flared wheel arches and sweeping, crisp lines to create a small car that stands out with a sporty stance.

The all-new interior design, with unique materials and new levels of craftsmanship, delivers a sense of modern, contemporary openness and provides even more flexible storage space.

The 2008 Ford Focus is one of the first Ford Motor Company vehicles to feature Sync, a cutting-edge way to use cell phones and media players inside a vehicle. This industry-first technology offers unprecedented levels of connection, control, simplicity and personalization for electronic devices inside a car.

Visit Ford of Ocala, the leading dealership in Ocala, Florida, to focus on your dream car. Our dealership represents the Ford brand and specializes in Ford sales, service, spare parts and finance.

Ford of Ocala serves areas such as Belleview, Silver Springs, Dunnellon, Silver Springs Shores, Fort McCoy, Citra, Reddick, Anthony, Orange Springs, Gainesville, Alachua, Williston, Lady Lake, Weirsdale and Starke.

Labels: 2008 Ford Focus, focus, ford florida, ford focus, ford motor company, sync

Imagine TELLING your vehicle audio system or your Bluetooth system to perform functions! This concept of speaking to your car, literally, an innovative feature of immeasurable depth and dimension, is aptly called SYNC.

Predictably, it has been pioneered by Ford Motor Company and Microsoft. 2008 models of the Ford Edge and Focus SES have this ultra-flexible software platform, developed in partnership with Microsoft, whereby all you need to do is TELL your car to play music or make a phone call, and it listens!

We are proud to be part of a company that is leading the way in innovation. With this latest technology, you can bring any of these digital media players - Apple iPods, Microsoft Zunes and other MP3 players, as well as Bluetooth - enabled mobile phones, into your car, and tell them to perform, and they do!

Labels: 2008 models, ford motor company, fordofocala, sync