April 30, 2010 Thank you for registering to be a part of Ford Motor Company's Blue Oval Connect retiree outreach initiative. Refer a Friend: If you know of other Ford retirees who would like to receive this newsletter, please take a moment to refer them to www.blueovalconnect.com. If you're using an email program like Outlook or Outlook Express, just click here to send an email to them with the information. In this Blue Oval Connect Weekly Briefing…
![]() Savings Plan Administration Change – FAQs Available The transition of the savings plan administration from Fidelity to Affiliated Computer Services, Inc (ACS) occurred Jan. 5, 2010. We have developed a list of answers to the most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) from employees and retirees. We hope you take a moment to view them on @Ford Online (http://www.at.ford.com/). If you are a Salaried Retiree, click here to view the recent FAQs. If you are a Hourly Retiree click here to view the recent FAQs. To visit the savings plan Web site, go to: http://www.myfordbenefits.com/ and follow the
instructions to log in.
Please join in the Ford Motor Company Giving Campaign to support the American Red Cross and their efforts to help those in crisis following the earthquake in Haiti. Ford will be matching employee and retiree donations up to a total of $50,000. Click here to donate.
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Ford North America recorded its highest quarterly earnings in six years to help Ford Motor Company blow past analyst estimates to post a stunning net income of $2.1 billion for the first quarter of 2010. Based on the company's improving performance and other factors, Ford now expects to be solidly profitable in 2010 – a year earlier than anticipated. Every region of the company's Automotive Operations showed a pre-tax operating profit for the period, but none greater than the $1.2 billion booked by North America – a $1.9 billion improvement versus the first quarter of 2009. "From where we were over the last couple of years, this should give you and your (teams) a lot of pride," said Mark Fields, president of The Americas, during Tuesday afternoon's Americas Quarterly Business Review at World Headquarters. "This is a quarter where we're really starting to see the benefits of growing the business." To read the full article, click here. Related Material:
Ford Motor Company is adding 13 new companies to its Aligned Business Framework (ABF), bringing to 90 the total number of key component and service suppliers chosen for long-term relationships and closer collaboration. Ford has added steadily to the ABF list since it was created with seven companies in September 2005 to forge a new path of collaboration between Ford and its supply base. It now consists of 67 production and 23 non-production suppliers from around the world. ABF suppliers are playing an increasingly important role as Ford consolidates global vehicle platforms and engine architectures while increasing part commonality across its product line. Last year, approximately half of Ford's global production purchases were sourced to ABF suppliers, up from 34 percent in 2006. To read the full article, click here. Related Material:
The long-awaited drives of the 2011 Ford Fiesta kicked off Monday, April 19, in San Francisco, the beginning of a week-long media program that put 200 journalists behind the wheel of both manual and 6-speed PowerShift automatic versions of our new sedan and five-door models. Media attending the program heard presentations about the Fiesta's innovative engineering and marketing and then were given the chance to put the Fiesta to the test on a 150 mile drive route south of San Francisco that featured a blend of twisty, technical roads and some highway. Overall, media had high praise for our new car, some even calling it a new benchmark for the segment. Fiesta's craftsmanship, quality of materials, quietness and fun-to-drive characteristic seemed to meet and even exceeded the high expectations that media had for our new car. Our EPAS system was called out by some in attendance as the best in the industry. Media also spoke highly about our car's attractive interior and exterior design. The average fuel economy for our Fiesta – after 150 miles of spirited driving – ranged from 33.5 mpg to 41.4 mpg, impressing even our toughest media critics who weren't being gentle with the accelerator pedal. To read the full article, click here. Related Material:
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For the past eleven years, Ford Motor Company has proudly supported the national "Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day" to make each experience beneficial for both children and employees alike. This year's event, sponsored by the HR Diversity Council, was held at the Conference and Event Center last Thursday. 'Take Our Children to Work Day' revolves around the importance of a child's education and the significance of their parent's role in Ford's success. Today, kids are encouraged to frequently exercise the most powerful part of their body – their mind, and this year's event was the perfect chance for young kids to think about their future, in addition to the possibility of one day following in their mother and/or father's footsteps. To read the full article, click here. Related Material:
The Ford Fiesta has been earning its street credibility since last year’s Fiesta Movement, but now Ford's newest car is getting its Hip-Hop seal of approval by none other than Celebrity Customizer Funkmaster Flex. The Fiesta will appear in an episode of Flex's new TV show, 'Funk Flex Full Throttle' which premiers this Sunday, May 2, at 2 p.m. EST on MTV2. The Fiesta will play a starring role in one of the show's episodes as Funkmaster Flex puts his creative spin on the vehicle that has a strong following prior to its launch. As part of the partnership, one viewer will win the chance to take home the keys to the Fiesta customized by Flex as part of the Funk Flex Full Throttle Giveaway. The customization is set to include features such as a custom body kit, wheels, tires, lowering kit, a Funkmaster Flex signature two-tone paint job and a custom interior. To read the full article, click here.
Ford Motor Company and the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor joined forces to launch a project giving students access to a Ford developmental mobile computing platforms, which allowed them to design and test new applications in search of the "what's next" for in-car connectivity. This semester, students taking U of M's "Cloud Computing in the Commute" course have spent the last 12 weeks exploring the future of by just "building" it --- writing car apps – including one that will be making a cross-country journey embedded in a 2011 Ford Fiesta. The course, designed in part by the Ford Research & Advanced Engineering (R&A) organization, prototyped social networking and transportation apps as part of a larger Ford initiative called "American Journey 2.0," a joint open innovation research project offering students the chance to shape the future in-car experience. To read the full article, click here.
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Sam De La Garza Fiesta Brand Manager Ford Motor Company Positive reactions from media members who drove the new Ford Fiesta last week in San Francisco continue to build momentum for the company's new small car, which is scheduled to hit dealer showrooms across the U.S. this summer. Sam De La Garza, Fiesta brand manager, recently discussed the growing enthusiasm for the new small car as well as its many attributes and other aspects of the launch with @Ford Online. Q: How many Fiestas have been sold in the U.S.? Q: Who is the Fiesta target customer? Q: What is Fiesta's primary competition? What separates Fiesta from cars in the segment is that Fiesta is a no-compromise vehicle. In addition to achieving a projected 40 mpg on the highway, Fiesta offers great design, strong driving dynamics and technology and features never before found on a small car in this market. To read the full Q&A, click
here.
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The stunning red Ford Start pulled ahead of 65 concept vehicles to be named Best Concept by the AutoWeek editorial staff at the Beijing auto show this year. Small, green and fun, the Ford Start won admirers for its decidedly playful take on kinetic design. More than a design exploration into the feasibility of a future small car, it previews the smallest engine yet in the growing Ford EcoBoost engine family. Ford has confirmed that the 1.0-liter turbocharged I3 EcoBoost engine powering the Start is going into production, destined for use in future Ford small cars, where it is expected to deliver the same power as a larger petrol I4. To read the full article, click here.
Ford Lio Ho (FLH) announced the new Ford Econovan is now available at dealers throughout Taiwan. The new Econovan is equipped with a 2.0 liter engine and manual transmission, and delivers 100 horsepower and peak torque of 16.3 kg-m at 2500 rpm. It offers two choices of loading trunks; a wooden bed and a chassis version. With a loading capacity up to 1,162 kg, the wooden bed version provides a highly capable carrier for a truck. The chassis version offers greater flexibility for owners, with a load truck that is designed to meet their business needs. To read the full article, click here.
They are tall, friendly and have a tendency to show off their muscles. Dressed in bright orange, they wave to everyone from afar, beckoning and attracting them to the Ford stand at Auto China 2010. Greeting visitors with "Hi, my name is Eco" and "Hi, my name is Boost", they've been winning everyone over with their playful antics. In fact, the two high-tech robot arms were so popular that they captured the attention of the visitors far longer than any leggy car model. Even government ministers have been spotted saying hello to Eco and Boost. To read the full article, click here. Related Material:
Ford earns second place in the annual "Best commercial vehicle in Russia 2010" poll... The Ford Transit Connect has been named Russia's second best commercial vehicle in the annual "Best commercial vehicle in Russia 2010" poll. The awards ceremony took place at the end of the first day of the 10th International Exhibition of Commercial Vehicles in Russia. To read the full article, click here.
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(YouTube) This is the story of Ford – the man – the company – and, importantly, a band of revolutionaries that are "betting it all" – defying all the odds – and in doing so, are re-establishing American automotive leadership, and reinventing the world's automobiles for the 21st Century. Click here to view video.
Lewis Booth, Ford's Chief Financial Officer, provides valuable insight on the company's recent financial performance, including the recent activity of Ford's stock price, as well as what it will take to maintain Ford's momentum. On a lighter note, Booth discusses which vehicle might replace his much talked about blue Transit Connect with racing stripes. Watch the full video interview on @Ford Online. Click here to view video.
![]() Pentagon Backs Bill that Could Protect Military Car Buyers (USA Today) Car dealers, who are among the largest lobbying groups in Washington, are facing a bill sponsored by Sen. Chris Dodd, D-Conn., that would regulate businesses granting credit. To read the full article, click here. Republican Senator Criticizes GM Loan Repayment VW Seeks China Chief as GM, Hyundai Steps Up Rivalry Ford Ready to Launch its Funky Fiesta this Summer GM to Announce $890 Million in Plant Upgrades Daimler Increases Profit Forecast on Mercedes Demand Toyota Recalls Lead Rockefeller, Waxman to Write Safety Measure All Signs Looking Good for Ford and CEO Alan Mulally Honda Forecasts Higher Profit on Sales Recovery Dodge Charger Challenges Ford for Police Fleet Market BMW Overtakes Toyota as World's Number One Car Brand
![]() Got an Idea, Share It! Ever had an idea for a new product or a suggestion for a current vehicle you'd like to share with the Ford team? If so, do we have some Web sites for you! If you have an idea for a new product or technology you'd like to see on a Ford vehicle, click to the Ford New Ideas site at www.FordNewIdeas.com. If you have a suggestion for a current Ford Motor Company product, click here to connect to the Customer Relationship Center. Through these two sites, your ideas and comments will be directed to the appropriate teams within the company … One team, one plan, one goal … ONE Ford.
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Location: Desk hours: The FERA desk handles discount tickets for Cedar Point, Kings Island, the North American International Auto Show, the Michigan Renaissance Festival and other events; the desk also has the Entertainment Book and Golf Michigan Play Books. For more FERA information, click to http://www.fera.org/.
![]() Directory Information Now Online Phone numbers and e-mail addresses for important Ford Motor Company contacts can now be found on @Ford Online at: http://www.at.ford.com/B2B/Pages/Directory2.aspx. For benefit questions, please contact the NESC at 800-248-4444 or e-mail NESC@ford.com.
Each week we will highlight various special offers from a number of outside companies all offering valuable deals exclusive to Ford employees, retirees and contract personnel.
Home Mortgage Find a low or no down payment loan to meet your unique needs. Learn about FHA and VA loans.
Click here for more information on this offer or click here to be redirected to their landing page on Discount Marketplace.
Electronics Corporation Save on calling plans, wireless devices, calling features and accessories from Verizon Wireless.
Click here for more information.
Electronics Corporation Sharp Electronics Corporation is offering special purchase opportunities on AQUOS liquid crystal televisions and other audio, video, home appliance and home office products.
Click here for more information.
![]() Click here to check out the @Ford Online listing of known Retiree Clubs and Groups. Atlanta Salaried Retirees Automatic Transmission Product Design & Engineering Retiree
Breakfast Club Building "H" Club – Michigan Information Technology Systems
Retirees Canadian Ford Alumni Chicago Stamping Plant Salaried Retiree Club Dearborn Assembly Plant Retirees Dearborn Assembly Retiree Breakfast Club Dearborn Frame Plant Retirees (Southfield, Mich.) Field Accounting Department (F.A.D.) Ford 5R55 Automatic Transmission Systems Design Retirees Group
Ford Air Transportation Office Retirees Ford Body & Assembly Operations/Vehicle Operations
Salaried Retiree Group Ford of Canada Ladies' Retirees Group Ford Chassis Retirees Breakfast (Livonia, Mich.) Ford Dearborn Engine & Fuel Tank Retirees Ford Glass UAW Local 737 Retirees Ford Human Resources Retiree Group Ford Rouge Plant Railroad Operations Retiree Group Ford Rouge Transportation Retirees Ford Technical Illustration and Graphics Retirees – EEE, Bldg.
3, FMCC, WHQ (Northville, Mich.) Ford Tool and Die Skilled Trades Retirees Frame Plant Survivors Salaried Retirees FRAW (Ford Rawsonville Area Women) Retirees Indianapolis Ford Retirees Kansas City Ford Salaried Retiree Club Lorain Local 425 Retirees Maumee Ford Retirees Nebraska – Iowa Ford Retirees (Omaha, Neb.) Norfolk Ford Assembly Plant Retirees PDC/Body Engineering Illustration Retirees Plant Engineering Office Retirees Product Development, Body Design and Engineering
Retirees Research Laboratory Retiree Brunch Club UAW Eastern Carolina Retirees Van Dyke Plant Retiree Luncheon Club (Sterling Heights, Mich.)
May 26: August 27 - 28:
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Ford Amateur Astronomy Club (Dearborn, Mich.) Starting on April 6 from 7:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., a series of planetarium shows will take place at either the Henry Ford Community College Planetarium (5101 Evergreen Rd.) in room S-126 inside the Science building, or the University of Michigan-Dearborn Observatory (4901 Evergreen Rd.) on the third floor of the Science Learning and Research Center. Click here for the Spring 2010 Planetarium & UMD Observatory Schedule. For more information, contact Ken Anderson at 313-805-4600 or KANDERS2@ford.com.
Ford Ballroom Dance Club (Plymouth, Mich.) The Ford Ballroom Dance Club's Next Dance and Showcase will be held on Saturday, May 8 at the Meeting House Grand Ballroom in Plymouth. Dance lessons are from 8 p.m. – 9 p.m., three show dances will be performed by members at 10 p.m. and open dancing occurs from 9 p.m. – 12:00 a.m. Ford Ballroom Dances are open to the public where everyone is welcome. Click here for additional information about this event or contact Jenny at 313-805-8044 or JREMINGT@ford.com. May 30 - 31:
Falcon Club of America 2010 National Convention (Dearborn, Mich.) The Metro Detroit Chapter of the Falcon Club of America is hosting the 2010 National Convention at the Hyatt Regency Dearborn and celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Ford Falcon. Because the 50th anniversary is a significant milestone, the club anticipates over 400 Falcons and their owners to attend from all over the United States and Canada. Please visit fca2010detroit.webs.com for additional information and to download a copy of the registration form or contact Alan Aniol at 734-282-8188 or e-mail at JOANAL@wideopenwest.com.
Mustang Memories 2010 All Ford Car Show & Shop (Dearborn, Mich.) Mustang Owners Club of Southeastern Michigan proudly presents the 22nd annual "Mustang Memories 2010 All Ford Car Show & Swap" at Ford World Headquarters (One American Road) from 8:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. rain or shine. For more information, go to www.mocsem.org.
Ford Athletic & Triathlon Club – F.A.S.T. (Novi, Mich.) F.A.S.T. presents its 8th Annual Island Lake of Novi where a Triathlon & 1.5 Mile Open Water Swim will be held. This event is comprised of a 5 mile swim, 12 mile bike ride and a 3 mile run. To register, visit http://www.swimfasttrifast.com/index.php/island-lake-of-novi-triathlon.html or to learn more about this event, click here.
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FCN News Team: Publisher: Sara Tatchio Associate Publisher: Susan Krusel Managing Editors: Jenn Corney, Terra Donnelly You received this e-mail because you opted in to receive e-mail communications from Blue Oval Connect. Please note that we have updated the Privacy Policy for BlueOvalConnect.com. We have also added to the site a statement relating to "Your California Privacy Rights." To review these documents, click to www.blueovalconnect.com/privacy_policy.cfm and http://www.blueovalconnect.com/california_privacy.cfm To opt out of receiving e-mail communications from Blue Oval Connect click here. Blue Oval Connect, One American Road, Dearborn, MI 48126 |