Delivering Customer-Focused Innovations

The automotive market is increasingly competitive, with more new competitors introducing new innovations faster than ever. Ford has reinvigorated its commitment to innovation in our research, product development and strategic planning, and we are realigning our product development systems to deliver these innovations in new products faster and more effectively.

For example, we are implementing five new signature technology innovations in the Ford, Lincoln and Mercury brands. These technologies, described below, are being introduced initially in North American markets.

• SYNC™ is a voice-activated, hands-free communications and connectivity system that fully integrates mobile phones and media players into the vehicle using Bluetooth technology and a USB connection. It allows users to phone home or cue up a favorite song, all without taking their hands off the wheel or eyes off the road. SYNC won one of Popular Mechanics' "Breakthrough Awards," which recognize products that set new benchmarks in design, creativity and engineering. It also won the "People's Choice" award at the 2008 Consumer Electronics Show. SYNC launched on 12 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles in 2007, and will migrate to all Ford, Lincoln and Mercury products within two years.
• Easy Fuel™ is a cap-less fuel filling system that eliminates the need to unscrew, handle and replace a gas cap. The technology also results in fewer smog-causing emissions due to a much better seal that shuts automatically when fueling is complete. Easy Fuel will be standard equipment across the entire Ford, Lincoln and Mercury product line by 2010.
• Securicode™ is a pick-your-own-number customized keyless entry pad. In addition to being standard or optional across the entire Company portfolio by 2010, the next generation of Securicode – to launch on the 2008 Lincoln MKS – will feature a more sophisticated appearance.
• Sony-branded audio systems – one of the top consumer brands in the U.S. (according to Harris Interactive survey) – will be installed in all new Ford and Mercury vehicles.
• Adjustable ambient lighting allows drivers to customize their interior lighting with seven different accent lighting colors inside the cupholders and in the front and rear foot wells. Ambient lighting was introduced in the 2007 Ford Focus.