Edge Guide

NEW 3.5L Engine Boosts Ford Edge By John Fossen, FCN Ford Edge 3.5L V6 Engine. The all-new Ford Edge crossover vehicle debuts later this year, equipped with a new 265-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission that will serve as cornerstones in the company's drive to improve the performance, fuel economy and emissions of its powertrains. Ford Vehicle Development Chief Engineer Jim Baumbick says the new engine and transmission give Ford's new crossover a cutting edge powertrain. "It has very strong acceleration, so you have that confident get-up-and-go feel when you want it. And when you want to cruise, it delivers smooth, effortless driving that optimizes fuel economy," he said. A good launch is critical for the Edge and its new powertrain. The 3.5-liter V-6 engine will be under the hood of one in five of the company's North American vehicles by the end of the decade. Ford also intends to maintain a leadership role in 6-speed transmissions, which the automaker estimates will be used in half of all manufacturers' North American cars and trucks by 2015. Ford's new engine and transmission reinforce the company's on-going commitment to providing powertrains of choice to customers in all vehicle segments, according to Powertrain Vice President Barb Samardzich. "Consumers shopping crossovers are looking for performance and fuel economy," she said. "We think that the new 6-speed transmission and 3.5-liter engine are absolutely best in class – any way you measure it." The 3.5-liter V-6 combines with the first Ford-built 6-speed front-wheel-drive transmission to deliver up to a 7 percent fuel economy improvement on the highway compared to a typical 4-speed automatic. The new engine's 265-horsepower rating is accomplished with less expensive regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane). Some competitors require more expensive premium or mid-grade fuel to achieve their top ratings. Not only is the 3.5-liter Ford's most powerful V-6 ever, it's also the cleanest. The new 2007 Lincoln MKX crossover vehicle also will be equipped with the new V-6 engine and 6-speed transmission. The new engine will also power the 2007 Lincoln MKZ. Edmunds.com contributing editor Rex Roy is impressed with the refinement of the new V-6 engine, which he experienced while driving the 2007 Lincoln MKZ sedan. "It truly puts Ford in competition with Honda and Toyota for producing some of the smoothest engines around," said Roy. Samardzich says more class-leading powertrains are on the way as Ford pushes to be the leader or among the leaders in every vehicle segment. "Our four-cylinder engine is a very strong product, and soon we will make it even more competitive with additional technologies," said Samardzich. "We're really focused on getting technologies from an advanced stage into vehicle programs and then delivering a very competitive cycle plan as quickly as possible, with world-class quality."

FORD VEHICLE INTERIORS GAINING VISIBILITY Michael Collins, FCN When the 2006 Lincoln Zephyr was voted the Best Premium-Priced Car Interior of the Year by Ward's Auto World magazine in July it was, in part, the result of an initiative that started three years earlier. Sparked by research that showed the average commute time for drivers had increased to approximately an hour a day, Ford launched a program in 2003 that tripled its investment in interior design. "Interiors are a much larger part of the way we do business," said Peter Horbury, Ford's executive director of design in North America. "It's the exterior that can excite a customer, but it's the interior that can seal the deal. Ultimately, it's the interior they look at for long periods of time not the exterior." Horbury estimates that 60 percent of Ford's automotive design efforts are now spent on the interior, and as the passenger compartment's importance has increased so has the status of the interior designer. "At one time the interior designer was considered a second-tier position, but not any more," said Horbury. "Today they are responsible for integrating as many as 400 items that incorporate design, safety, engineering, tooling and manufacturing. And, all those items have to come together in such a way that they exude quality, fit, finish, touch and feel, and all the other things customers expect." The 2007 Expedition and the all-new Ford Edge are examples of vehicle interiors that will likely be strong selling points. Not only does the Expedition boast extraordinarily comfortable seating, but thanks to a new type of acoustic windshield glass, an extremely quiet ride as well. Drawing on the influence of urban loft living, the Edge design team has added a Vista Roof for an open-air feeling, as well as a flexible seating environment for extra storage. Horbury describes the interior designer as part stylist and part social scientist. Besides keeping up on the latest social, cultural, fashion and interior design trends they have to forecast what consumers will want in the future. Unlike fashion designers that worry about the upcoming season, vehicle designers have to create relevant ideas that will work in three or four years. "Automotive designers have only their intuition to work with," said Jim Hall, vice president of industry analysis for AutoPacific, an automotive research organization in Southfield, Mich. "The truth is whatever becomes popular is decided by the customer in the context of a future market. Since no designer knows what the competition is doing, they really only have their gut to go on." Kris Tomasson, Ford's chief designer for advanced interiors says much of his decision making is based on the growing sophistication of consumers. "Stores like IKEA have brought a more design-savvy customer into the showroom," said Tomasson. "They've helped to make even entry-level buyers much more aware of good design." In the future, Tomasson sees a greater correlation between home interiors and vehicles. "In the '20s and '30s, transportation interiors like trains and cars related quite closely to people's home environments with curtains on windows and seats that looked like big comfortable chairs," he said. "We're trending in that direction again. We're taking the familiar things from home and putting them in our vehicles, especially consumer electronics like iPods and MP3 players." Susan Lampinen, Ford's chief designer for colors and materials says a greater variety of colors is also coming back to vehicle interiors, with less emphasis on black, beige and grey. "For the new Ford Edge we chose contrasting two-tone interiors, along with real aluminum on the center instrument panel for higher series vehicles," she said. "In the future, you can expect to see not only more color, but more detail as well as higher quality accents."

By Mike Ureel, FCN DEARBORN, Sept. 8, 2006 -- The new Ford Edge will be the next home run in the company's product-led turnaround, say Ford Motor Company officials, and a bold contender in the fast-growing crossover utility vehicle segment. "We have good reason to be optimistic as we launch another customer-driven product that's right for today's market," said Paul Mascarenas, vice president, Product Engineering, The Americas. "We believe Edge has what it takes to follow in the Fusion's footsteps -- it will be a success." The Edge and Lincoln MKX are set to join a red-hot CUV market that has grown from 500,000 sales in 2000 to 2.4 million in 2006. This year, the crossover segment is expected to outsell traditional truck-based SUVs for the first time ever. There are 43 different models now and there is projected to be more than 70 models by 2009. "The growth of the CUV business and the decline of the SUV business is the most dramatic shift in product that I've ever observed," said George Pipas, U.S. sales analyst for Ford. The sport-ute segment has been evolving since Ford introduced the revolutionary Explorer in 1990, which brought refinement and comfort to the spartan, off-roading utility vehicles of the 1980s. "The SUVs of the 1990s that came after the Explorer were more refined and had high levels of equipment and features, such as leather interiors and moonroofs," said Pipas. "It was the family car of the '90s." While these truck-based SUVs dominated sales in the 1990s, the Japanese automakers by necessity were the first to introduce car-based sport utes in 1996 with Toyota's RAV4. "Japanese automakers didn't have the proven truck platforms to adapt to SUVs, but they had proven car platforms," said Pipas. "They thought that, with the Big Three dominating the truck-based SUVs, a better strategy was to develop car-based SUVs." The CUV segment took off slowly at first but by the time Ford launched the Escape CUV in 1999, which was marketed as an SUV, the segment began growing. Ford has had a strong portfolio of CUVs, and the Escape (and sister Mercury Mariner) has been the top-selling CUV in the U.S., though it's been marketed as an SUV, said Pipas. Ford added the Freestyle CUV in 2004 and since then has been well-positioned in this fast-growing segment. What's behind this booming segment? Baby boomers themselves, said Pipas. The first of the 75 million-person boomer market is now entering retirement age. Many are empty-nesters who want smaller vehicles. "Baby boomers are entering a new life stage," said Pipas. "The need for the larger passenger and load hauling ability of traditional SUVs isn't as necessary for many of them. And they don't want to have a step-ladder to get into the larger SUVs." Today's CUVs match the benefits of a passenger car -- lighter weight and fuel-efficient with versatility and cargo -- without the size of an SUV. "Consumers will buy what the manufacturer produces as long as there is a need. And there is a need for CUVs, because of baby boomers," said Pipas. "I think the Edge is a statement not just about what it offers consumers -- car-like ride, handling and versatility -- but also a unique design." Since its unveiling at the 2006 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, almost 40,000 potential customers have expressed interest in the bold-looking Edge, through its Web site and other media. About 750,000 people have visited the Edge site, with 140,000 completing Build & Price configurations online. "The Edge has generated a lot of interest, and we've gotten a lot of great reaction from the press," said Jeri Ward, Edge marketing manager, Ford Division. "And we've gotten a lot of traffic to the Web site very early on, and what's great is that momentum has continued." The Ford Edge is distinguished by its bold, American design. Equipped with an all-new 265-horsepower V-6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission, the Edge is expected to deliver performance, quietness and fuel efficiency. Edge is packed with Ford innovation, too, with its panoramic glass roof, laptop-friendly center console and advanced safety features. Will the CUV spell the demise of the truck-based SUV? "By the end of the decade, I think CUVs will likely be the largest vehicle category in the U.S. auto market," said Pipas. "SUVs will remain a significant segment in the U.S. auto market because this product catagory is better suited for off-roading, hauling several passengers, or pulling a boat or trailer."

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS V-6 BODY Construction: Unibody Final Assembly Location: Oakville , Ontario. Canada. POWERTRAIN AND CHASSIS ENGINE 3.5L DOHC 24-valve V6 Manufacturing Location: Lima Engine Plant, Ohio Configuration: 60 degree V6, aluminum block and heads Intake Manifold: Composite, split plenum Exhaust Manifold: Cast Iron Crankshaft: Forged steel Redline: 6700 RPM Idle Speed in Drive: 620 RPM (640 with trailer tow package) Throttle Body: 65mm, electronic Valvetrain: DAMB, 4 valves per cylinder, intake variable camshaft timing Valve Diameter: Intake: 37mm; Exhaust: 31mm Pistons: High temperature cast aluminum alloy with low-friction coated skirts, low tension rings Connecting Rods: Cracked powder metal Ignition: Pencil Coil Bore x stroke: 3.6 x 3.4 in/ 92.5 x 86.7 mm Displacement: 213 cu in/ 3.496 cc Compression ratio: 10.3:1 Horsepower: 265@ 6250 Horsepower per liter: 71.5 Torque: 250 lb-ft @ 4500 Recommended fuel: 87 Octane Fuel capacity: 20 gallons Fuel Injection: Sequential multi-port fuel injection Oil Capacity: 5.5 quarts, with filter Recommended Oil: GF4, 5W-20 DRIVETRAIN Layout: FWD (Optional AWD) TRANSMISSION Standard: 6-Speed Automatic Gear Ratios 1st: 4.484 2nd: 2.872 3rd: 1.842 4th: 1.414 5th: 1.000 6th: 0.742 REV: -2.882 Final Drive: FWD: 2.77; AWD: 3.16 SUSPENSION Front: Macpherson strut and L-shaped lower control arm with isolated subframe and stabilizer bar Rear: Independent suspension with trailing blade, integrated knuckle and lateral links, isolated subframe and stabilizer bar STEERING Type:Power rack and pinion Steering column: Tilt-telescope Ratio: 17.7:1 Turns lock-to-lock: 3.1 Turning circle curb-to-curb: 11.74 m (38.6 ft) BRAKES Type: 4-wheel ABS (4 channel); Optional AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control (RSC®) Front: Disc Swept area: FWD (63.1 in 2) AWD (69.79 in 2) Rear: Disc Swept area: 50.38 in 2 Power assist: Yes TIRES AND WHEELS P235/65R17 all-season BSW on 17x7-in. steel with cover (SE) P235/65R17 all-season BSW on 17x7.5-in. painted aluminum (SEL, optional SE) P245/60R18 all-season BSW on 18x7.5-in. painted aluminum or aluminum with chrome (optional SEL) Recommended tire pressure (front/rear): 35 psi DIMENSIONS (inches unless otherwise noted) (All dimensions are Preliminary) EXTERIOR Wheelbase: 111.2 Overall length: 185.7 Overall width: 75.8 excluding mirrors 87.1 including mirrors Overall height: 67.2 (w/o roofrack); 68.9 (w/roofrack) Track width, front/rear: 65.1/64.9 Ground clearance: 8.0 Approach angle: 16 deg Departure angle: 24.5 deg Ramp breakover angle: 17.3 deg Cargo Volume behind front row: 69.6 cu ft Cargo Volume behind second row: 32.1 cu ft INTERIOR Seating capacity: 5 passenger Headroom Front row: 40.0 (w/o moonroof); 37.8 (w/moonroof) Second row: 39.3 (w/o moonroof); 38.7 (w/moonroof) Legroom Front row: 40.7 Second row: 39.6 Shoulder room Front row: 58.9 Second row: 58.8 Hip room Front row: 54.8 Second row: 56.3 WEIGHTS AND CAPACITIES (pounds unless otherwise noted) Maximum towing capacity (when properly equipped) Class II (3500 lbs) Maximum payload (when properly equipped) including 150 lb driver FWD: 1077; AWD: 1058 Base curb weight FWD: 4073 AWD: 4282 Weight distribution (f/r) 60/40 MAJOR STANDARD EQUIPMENT SE Model AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™, spoiler, remote keyless entry, manual fold power mirrors, cloth bucket seats, 2nd row 60/40 split-fold-flat bench seats with center head restraint, Side air bags, Safety Canopy™, 3-point belts in all positions, front row height adjustable seat belts, BeltMinder® (front row), Personal Safety System™, child safety locks, LATCH, front and rear floormats, front console, manual air conditioning, power windows with one-touch down driver, power locks, speed control, premium AM/FM/Single CD/MP3 capable audio system and 4 speakers SEL adds Fog lamps, 6-way power driver seat, overhead console, premium CDx6 with 9 speakers, steering wheel audio controls, unique Interior treatments, message center/compass, chrome exhaust tips, dual illuminated visors OPTIONS Interior auto-dimming rearview mirror, premium CDx6, audio jack in center console, SIRIUS Satellite radio, rear cargo management system. SEL only options: Leather seats, 6-way power passenger seat, passenger seat fold flat, heated seats, memory driver seat, remote release on 2nd row fold-flat seats, dual electronic automatic temperature control with air filter, manual fold power heated side mirrors with puddle lamps and memory, audiophile sound, DVD entertainment system, navigation system, redundant climate controls on steering wheel Exterior AWD, , Class II trailer tow package, automatic headlamps, roof side rails, 17" painted aluminum wheels, keyless entry pad SEL only Options: Panoramic Vista Roof™, Reverse Sensing System, 18" chrome clad or painted aluminum wheels OTHER Exterior color Blazing Copper, Crème Brulee, Redfire, Black Clearcoat, Carbon, Dune Pearl, Pewter, Light Sage, Dark Amethyst Interior trim Medium Light Stone, Camel, Charcoal Black WARRANTY INFORMATION 5-year, 60,000 bumper-to-bumper warranty

EXTERIOR/INTERIOR FORD EDGE: ATHLETIC, MODERN AMERICAN DESIGN DEFINES ENTRY INTO HOT CROSSOVER MARKET * Edge's bold, modern American design blends style, function and flexibility * Innovative use of advanced materials and attention to detail deliver impressive interior quietness * EasyFold™ electro-mechanical release – second-row seats fold at the touch of a button, creating nearly 68.7 cubic feet of cargo space * Class-exclusive Vista Roof™ for open-air motoring The 2007 Ford Edge steps out from the crowd in the hot crossover utility vehicle (CUV) market with its bold, modern and distinctly American design. Innovative features as well as near-luxury levels of quietness and ease of use distinguish Edge from other CUVs. The 2007 Ford Edge defines the crossover utility market with bold, American design and innovation. "A dynamic, modern shape with the right proportions and short overhangs sets Edge apart from other crossovers that mostly look like traditional SUVs," says Peter Horbury, executive director, Design, North America. "Edge has a bold American personality and a strong, athletic presence." A wide, aggressive stance underscores Edge's dynamic character. Edge's raised beltline, strong, sculpted shoulders and large wheel lips emphasize the vehicle's power and performance. Edge is further distinguished by a raked windshield, fast hatch and contoured tumblehome – styling cues typically found on sports cars. Edge wears its family heritage proudly, with a large blue oval badge positioned prominently in the center of the hallmark three-bar chrome grille, inspired by the Ford 427 concept car and first introduced on the 2006 Ford Fusion. "The beautifully sculpted grille picks up some of that urban-tough imagery of the 427 concept adapted to Edge's modern, athletic styling," says Doyle Letson, Edge chief designer. Quad beam halogen headlamps complete the front end's distinctive look. Jewellike headlamps carry the lines of the grille around the side of the vehicle and feature a unique interpretation of the Ford-signature step-up surround. The hint of a powerdome hood underscores that with its 265-hp engine, Edge is ready to run. The large liftgate offers easy access to the cargo area. Taillamps sit high on Edge's rear shoulders for a unique appearance. Contrasting black lower fascias and rocker panels visually connect Edge to the road, highlighting the large wheels and tires and housing the available fog lamps up front and dual exhausts out back. Vista Roof™ Brings Open Air Driving to a Modern CUV The tilt-and-slide front roof and fixed rear glass panel of the Vista Roof™ provide panoramic views for front and rear passengers. Edge is the first vehicle in its segment to offer an all-glass roof. Inspired by architectural trends toward a greater use of glass in skylights and wall-to-ceiling windows, the Vista Roof™ serves as a large front moonroof and a rear skylight. The large forward 27.3- by 29.4-inch sunroof features power tilt-and-slide functions, while the rear-seat passengers can enjoy a sky view through the large 15.75- by 31.3-inch fixed rear skylight. The one-touch open/close headliner-mounted switch opens the Vista Roof™. A pop-up fabric wind blocker helps in eliminating wind buffeting. Dual power sunshades can be deployed to block out glare. Flexible Interior Adapts for Easy Loading The Edge interior makes ingenious use of space, delivering maximum flexibility and functionality. The available EasyFold™ electro-mechanical seat release switch drops either back seat at the touch of a button for easy loading of large cargo. Cargo capacity equals that of many current midsize sport utility vehicles (SUVs). The large rear liftgate allows easy access to 68.7 cubic feet of cargo space (with the second row folded) and 32 cubic feet of space behind the second row. "Storage was a very important consideration when designing the Edge interior," says Letson. "Edge customers demand that their vehicle accommodate all of the things they need for their busy lifestyles." The reconfigurable center console can hold objects as large as a laptop and features a concealed power point and MP3-audio input jack. Edge's center console also was designed with flexibility in mind. Moveable inserts can be used to customize the space to store everything from CDs to purses to laptop computers. An optional 12-volt power point is concealed inside the console for powering cell phones and PDAs. An optional audio input, also concealed in the console, connects an external MP3 device to the vehicle's audio system. A small slot designed into the side of the console keeps cords in order. Additional 12-volt power points are located on the IP and on the back of the center console for rear-seat passengers. Bold American Design Carried Through in the Interior Edge's dynamic exterior design is carried into the interior with sharp, graphic lines and fast angles that define Edge's athletic character. The standard two-tone interior adds depth and interest and features an elegant use of materials. Two-tone interior is standard, with Greystone and Ghin Rime accents on the SE and Ghin Rime and Fine Rime accents on the SEL, all with chrome touches on the shifter, door releases and center air vent surrounds. Edge's center stack takes a prominent place in the interior, carrying the powerdome hood design into the vehicle and flowing into a center console that houses the shifter and two of Edge's six cup/bottle holders. The center stack's clean functional design is both intuitive and uncluttered, made possible by the unique vertical vent design. Putting the air vents outside the available navigation system and radio and climate controls allowed designers to focus more attention on the design of those elements. Edge offers comfortable seating for five or can accommodate items up to 8 feet long with the rear seats and front passenger seat folded flat. The center stack houses an AM/FM, CD/MP3-capable audio system and available DVD-based navigation system that offers up the vast majority of North America on one disc. The navigation system uses text-to-speech technology to read turn-by-turn travel directions, including street names, aloud in English, French and Spanish and features a wide 6.5-inch screen that is sharper and much brighter than competitors' units. An in-dash, six-CD changer and factory-installed SIRIUS satellite radio are also optional. An available MP3 audio input jack in the center console can plug in hundreds of hours of music to accompany you on your trip to the edge of the map. Edge comes standard with a four-way manually adjustable driver's seat. Available leather-trimmed heated front seats feature six-way power adjustment with manual recline and lumbar. The controls for the heated seats are conveniently located on the instrument panel. Second-row Passengers will Appreciate the Extra Legroom Edge's five-passenger seating configuration creates a spacious, comfortable environment for rear-seat passengers without compromising capability and functionality. The 60/40-split second row offers impressive recline comfort up to 15 degrees. The seats also fold forward, creating a level load floor using the same easy-to-use handle. A versatile integrated rear-seat center console also incorporates the center head restraint. The console folds down from the seat back to reveal two cup holders. In addition, it can be dropped down to move the center head restraint out of the driver's rear view. Rear-seat passengers also can enjoy an available multifunctional family DVD entertainment system. The system features a flush-mount, flip-down/flip-up, 8-inch LCD module that allows users to play both DVDs and CDs and is integrated into the vehicle's audio system. An infrared remote control provides easy operation while two sets of wireless headphones offer quiet listening. Edge Delivers Impressive Quiet Comfort An innovative use of materials, technology and hard work has produced a CUV with near-luxury-vehicle interior quietness. The superbly quiet cabin results from attention to detail inside and out. For example, Edge's side mirrors are designed to deflect air without creating wind noise. Engineers and designers fine-tuned prototypes, producing a mirror that is 80 percent quieter than the original design at highway speeds and that generates less wind noise than a vehicle without sideview mirrors. The same attention to detail was given to the mast antenna. The spiral on the antenna was tweaked to the tenth of a millimeter, reducing noise by an additional three decibels. "We made a concerted effort to fine tune every component of Edge that could contribute to noise to provide the quiet ride of a luxury car," says Paul Larkin, manager of the vehicle team responsible for reducing noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). A barrier fused inside the Edge's rear wheelhouse helps block midfrequency noise while absorbing high-frequency noise. Specially designed sound-deadening material is sonic-welded behind the headliner and every plastic exterior trim panel to further reduce cabin noise. "The Ford Edge measured less than 24 sones of interior noise at 80 miles per hour during testing," says Larkin. "That's very impressive compared to our competitive benchmarks." Edge Chief Designer Draws on Varied Design Career for Inspiration Baby boomers will no doubt remember "Miami Vice", one of the runaway hits of network television in the 1980s. Who could forget the show's opening: high-powered, synthesized music, flamingos, golden beaches with bikini-clad models, and Tubbs and Crockett in fast cars and even faster Scarab boats. Letson thanks you for remembering. While Letson now spends his days bringing Ford's newest crossover vehicle, the 2007 Ford Edge to market, it was his design skills that made those Don Johnson boats so memorable. "I spent a lot of time in a variety of design jobs in the early part of my career," says Letson. "At Wellcraft Marine, we designed boats for people like Don Johnson, and Hulk Hogan and Chuck Norris as well." Letson credits his diverse design background with the success he has enjoyed on the automotive side. He started as a youngster, spending every waking hour sketching and drawing. His love of art and design led him to Purdue University in Lafayette, Ind. In 1980, with his industrial design degree in hand, Letson began his career at a small company in Indiana creating power tools. "We designed and manufactured products that were sold at major retail stores through Singer and Craftsman brands, among others," Letson says. "After a few years I moved on to a furniture manufacturer, where I learned as much about manufacturing as I did about design," he says. "We used a lot of state-of-the-art manufacturing methods to create products that were pleasing but also functional." Letson's next stop was at the heavy equipment maker Caterpillar where he specialized in ergonomics design for operator comfort. He learned about gathering statistical data and consumer input, lessons that would serve him well in the future. While visiting Florida in the early '90s, Letson spotted a 40-foot Scarab, complete with gorgeous graphics, sitting in front of a boat company. He was smitten. So he and his wife packed everything and moved South. Working with boat makers Donzi and Wellcraft, Letson further honed his skills, leaving a legacy of television fame (of sorts), and more than 50 production boats to his design credit. This includes a 38-foot signature edition Scarab offshore racer with twin $50,000 650-hp Lamborghini engines, built specifically for Johnson. Eventually, the market for expensive boats began to dry up in the wake of a new luxury tax, and Letson found himself looking for another opportunity. Inspired by several trips to the North American International Auto Show, feasting his eyes on the beautiful concepts and production cars, Letson sent a resume and samples to Ford. That was 12 years ago. Since, he's been applying his extensive design experience to programs like Mustang, Fusion and now, Edge. "It all started at Purdue, a solid engineering school," explaines Letson. "As designers we were paired up with engineering students to develop our designs. That's real-world stuff. That's how cars are brought to market. You have to learn to design cars that can be built, but still stay on the leading edge of design." Like those memorable boats in Miami Vice, we expect many of Letson's latest designs to be fondly remembered for years to come.

2007 FORD EDGE ALL-NEW 265-HP V-6, 6-SPEED DELIVER IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCE AND SUPERIOR FUEL ECONOMY * All-new, refined 265-hp 3.5-liter V-6 with variable cam timing and electronic throttle control delivers engaging performance * Class-exclusive 6-speed automatic provides smooth operation and good fuel economy (expected mid 20s in highway driving) With an all-new powertrain combination, Ford Edge delivers impressive performance feel. This crossover has near-luxury levels of quietness and refinement and fuel economy numbers associated with smaller vehicles. Edge performance begins with an all-new 265-horsepower 3.5-liter Duratec 35 V-6 engine mated to a smooth and efficient 6-speed automatic transmission. “Performance and good fuel economy can go hand-in-hand if you develop the right technologies,” says Barb Samardzich, vice president, Powertrain Operations, Ford Motor Company. “That’s why Ford is committed to 6-speed automatic transmissions, electronic throttle, variable cam timing and other advanced powertrain technologies.” Powerful New V-6 Engine Designed to Deliver Featuring a number of technological innovations, the new Duratec 35 engine delivers 265 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque for acceleration performance. It’s expected to be at or near the top of the medium crossover segment while achieving fuel economy in the mid-20s on the highway. The engine’s intelligent electronic throttle body uses an accelerator pedal sensor to read and interpret the driver’s intentions. This sets the engine to run at its peak efficiency for both performance and fuel economy. For improved fuel economy and high-rpm refinement, the engine features a forged-steel fully counterweighted crank shaft with induction-hardened journals, fractured-split, powder metal-forged connecting rods and high-temperature alloy, cast-aluminum pistons with low-friction coating. The engine’s intake was designed as a system, all the way from the throttle body to the intake valves, to create optimum flow for peak power and to broaden the torque curve. Computer-aided engineering (CAE) analysis was used to fine-tune the dual plenum manifold to deliver the required airflow rates without the need for intake flaps or butterfly valves in the plenum. This not only results in a broader torque signature, but eliminates the “hiccup” associated with engines equipped with butterfly-valve intakes. Intake Variable Cam Timing Improves Smoothness and Refinement The valve train is controlled by dual camshafts and direct-acting mechanical buckets that are more compact and lighter weight than common roller finger followers. The smaller size improves packaging efficiencies and reduces idle vibration. Intake variable cam timing (i-VCT) optimizes valve timing for a smooth idle and helps the engine produce a broad torque curve. The i-VCT system uses a hydraulically actuated spool valve to control the movement of the cam phaser and can rotate up to 40 degrees, shifting within less than half a second. Efficient Combustion Plus a Hard-Working Catalyst Equals Ultra-Low Emissions Careful attention to detail in both the combustion system and exhaust after-treatment has produced an exceptionally clean operating engine. The powertrain team focused on four significant enhancements that aid in delivering an ultra-clean and reliable engine: * The high 10.3:1 compression ratio effectively lowers emissions while improving both power and fuel economy. * Low heat-loss exhaust manifolds and close-coupled catalysts for fast light-off during cold-start help minimize cold-start emissions before the catalysts reach operating temperature. * Optimized fuel injector targeting also helps in minimizing cold-start emissions. * Centrally located spark plugs increase the engine’s thermal efficiency. Edge is expected to be rated for ultra-low emission vehicle (ULEV) II tailpipe emissions in California and receive a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency rating of Tier II/Bin 5 tailpipe and low-emission vehicle (LEV) II evaporative emissions in other states. All-new, Class-Exclusive 6-speed Delivers Smooth, Efficient Performance Edge comes standard with an all-new, class-exclusive 6-speed transaxle that improves fuel efficiency up to 7 percent in highway driving over 4-speed transmissions while offering better performance and smoother, more precise shifts. “Ford is taking a leadership position in 6-speed automatic transmissions,” says Samardzich. “With the introduction of the Ford Edge, we will have a dozen models with 6-speed automatics in our showrooms, and more on the way.” The 6F uses a wide-ratio 6.04:1 gear span to deliver maximum performance and fuel economy. The low 4.48:1 first gear provides tremendous acceleration at launch while the tall, 0.74:1 overdrive sixth gear provides exceptional fuel economy. Short steps between intermediate gears enhance performance and feel by finding the right gear for the most efficient operating conditions. 6F Design Delivers Impressive NVH The elimination of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) was a high priority of the development team. Every area of the transmission was scrutinized to provide smooth, quiet operation. Powertrain engineers focused on the design of the interface between the engine and transmission to nearly eliminate the bending that occurs under acceleration, resulting in smooth launches and shifts. Extensive use of CAE modeling on the transmission case built a solid housing for the transmission components. Engineers used analysis to determine exactly where strengthening ribs and wall thickness were needed to minimize radiated noise and vibration. The three simple planetary gearsets are designed for robustness and use low-pinion pitch line velocities to reduce noise. All gears are cut using high-precision CNC cutting machines. The transfer and final drive gears are hard finished, providing a more precise fit, reducing gear whine. Unlike many transmissions where the gears are “green finished” (shaped and then heat treated) these “big gears” are treated and then finish machined. After grinding, the gears are honed or polished to remove “ghost lines” – the microscopic undulations left in the surfaces of the teeth after shaping. This additional step results in a 50 percent improvement in tolerances and greatly reduces gear-to-gear noise. Innovative Control Strategy Improves Shift Quality A single intelligent control module shared by the Duratec 35 and 6F transmission has a learning function that collects data each time the transmission shifts, measures the response and improves shift quality by adjusting shift parameters. To ensure the best possible shift quality, each 6F transmission is bench tested at Ford’s Van Dyke (Mich.) Transmission Plant. There, the transmission build quality is verified, detecting even minute variations in the manufacturing process. Unique software programmed into the powertrain control module individually trims and characterizes all solenoids and clutches to compensate for variances that normally would lead to changes in shift feel. This strategy produces smooth, precisely controlled shifts that improve durability and customer satisfaction.

EDGE DELIVERS ENGAGING DRIVING EXPERIENCE * Edge’s precise, liner steering and sport-tuned four-wheel independent suspension deliver engaging driving dynamics * Intelligent all-wheel drive improves driving performance and all-weather traction * Standard AdvancTrac® with Roll Stability Control (RSC®) provides an additional level of safety with enhanced performance Ford Edge delivers an engaging driving experience. Its crisp, precise steering connects the driver to the road and Edge’s sport-tuned suspension limits body roll during cornering. It all adds up to a comfortable, confident ride. "We tuned Edge with a linear steering feel with just the right amount of driver feedback for a more confident driving experience," says Jim Baumbick, Edge chief engineer. "Edge is intuitive and easy to drive." The bold three-bar grille of the Edge is inspired by the Ford Fusion and Ford 427 concept. Edge’s front suspension features MacPherson struts with rear-facing L arms, stamped-steel clamshell-design lower control arms, cast-iron knuckles and a stabilizer bar. The isolated perimeter subframe is firmly attached in six locations for added strength and stiffness and uses hydro-bushings specifically tuned to isolate brake and road vibrations. Edge’s solid foundation and advanced independent rear suspension create an engaging driving experience. The four-link independent rear suspension uses stamped steel control blades for improved suspension tuning. The vertically oriented shocks are mounted outboard and behind the wheel center for improved ride and handling. Edge comes standard with four-wheel-disc anti-lock brakes. Large 296- by 28-millimeter front discs (all-wheel-drive models get 320- by 28-millimeter discs) and 302- by 28-millimeter rear discs provide impressive stopping power. Edge offers four wheel options: two standard 17-inch wheels with P235/65R17 all-season tires and two available 18-inch (painted aluminum or aluminum with chrome) with P245/60R18 all-season tires. Intelligent All-Wheel Drive Improves Driving Performance, All-Weather Capability Edge’s available intelligent all-wheel-drive (AWD) system was tuned with an emphasis toward driving performance while offering confident all-weather driving. Using a preemptive slip strategy, the system continuously monitors vehicle speed, throttle input and steering angle to seamlessly deliver torque to the appropriate wheel even before wheel slippage occurs. The system also helps eliminate torque steer and helps balance the vehicle when cornering. Intelligent AWD uses an active on-demand coupler to allocate a precise amount of torque from front to rear, up to 100 percent to either axle. When paired with available AdvanceTrac® stability control, the systems work in harmony to transfer torque front-to-rear as well as side-to-side. Ford-exclusive Technology Provides Increased Performance and Enhanced Safety Edge is available with Ford’s AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control (RSC®), the industry’s only electronic stability control system that uses a gyroscopic sensor to monitor both yaw and roll motions. Most systems use a sensor to control yaw only. Ford’s RSC® gyroscopic roll rate sensor accurately measures the vehicle’s roll angle. If the roll rate sensor detects a significant roll angle, the system applies additional countermeasures – such as applying brakes to one or more wheels or reducing engine power – to enhance vehicle rollover resistance. Without roll angle information, the vehicle side-slip calculations are less accurate. "Competitor’s yaw control-only systems try to calculate both yaw and roll control based on yaw rate, lateral acceleration and steering rate," says Keith Mattson, RSC specialist. "Without RSC’s roll rate sensor and roll angle estimation, they lack the accuracy of RSC and are susceptible to false interventions." Strong Foundation Contributes to Both Safety and Driving Dynamics Edge is built on a solid unibody foundation fortified with a stamped-steel ladder frame. Bumper-to-bumper flow-through side rails as well as structural shotgun and A-pillars help move energy away from occupants in the event of a collision. Extensive use of high-strength steel creates a strong, solid body structure and reinforced greenhouse to improve safety performance in a variety of situations. Side-impact intrusion beams and energy-absorbing door trim help add to side-impact performance. Comprehensive Safety Package Edge incorporates a number of highly advanced safety technologies, all part of Ford’s Personal Safety System®. The Personal Safety System® includes standard driver and front passenger dual-stage air bags, energy-absorbing steering column and three-point safety belts at all seating positions, with front-seat pretensioners and retractors. The system uses advanced restraint system logic that bases the air bag output level on occupant size, safety-belt usage, driver’s seat position and severity of impact. Edge also comes with standard seat-deployed side air bags offer torso protection, and a side-curtain air bag provides enhanced head protection coverage over the length of the window glass area – for both front- and second-row occupants from A-pillar to C-pillar. Edge’s two-row side air curtains also feature "roll-fold" technology – a Ford Motor Company exclusive. If an occupant is resting their head against a window, the air bag is designed to slide between the glass and occupant as it inflates. Typical side air curtains unfold like an accordion, using the occupant's head to keep the bag between the glass and the body. Edge’s roll-fold helps keep the air curtain against the glass, even when the occupant is out of position. Edge comes with standard adjustable head restraints and height-adjustable safety belts for front passengers and child safety locks for the rear doors. Ford’s standard Beltminder™ uses a flashing icon on the instrument panel and an audio tone to subtly remind occupants to buckle up.

FORD BRINGS NEW EDGE TO HOT CROSSOVER MARKET * Bold, American design: Ford Edge stands out in fast-growing CUV market * Performance-plus: Edge’s new 3.5-liter V-6 delivers 265 horsepower and is mated to a 6-speed automatic for performance and fuel efficiency * Innovation: MP3-player jack, console laptop storage, panoramic Vista Roof™ and advanced safety features, including Ford’s industry-leading Advance Trac® with Roll Stability Control® (RSC) * Safety: Standard safety features abound, including Ford’s industry-leading Advance Trac® with Roll Stability Control® (RSC), seat-mounted side air bags, Safety Canopy™ air curtain system and Ford’s Personal Safety System The 2007 Ford Edge defines the crossover utility market with bold, American design and innovation. Bold, American design distinguishes the 2007 Ford Edge in the red-hot crossover utility vehicle (CUV) market – along with a dynamic driving character and innovative features designed to make it the "crossover of the year." Equipped with an all-new 265-horsepower V-6 engine and 6-speed automatic transmission, Edge will deliver performance, quietness and fuel efficiency. Ford Edge is expected to achieve fuel economy in the mid twenties in highway driving. "Edge underscores the bold, American design direction for all Ford vehicles going forward," says Mark Fields, president, The Americas, Ford Motor Company. "Edge also is packed with Ford innovation – from its panoramic glass roof and laptop-friendly center console to fuel-saving engine and advanced safety features. We expect Edge to make waves in the hot crossover market this year just like the Fusion did for midsize cars last year." The bold three-bar grille of the Edge is inspired by the Ford Fusion and Ford 427 concept. Since 1995, car-based CUVs have been steadily gaining sales on truckbased SUVs. CUV sales likely will surpass traditional SUVs in 2006. CUVs are Hot The CUV is the fastest-growing vehicle segment in the United States, outpacing even the remarkable growth SUVs achieved in the 1990s. CUVs surpassed 2 million U.S. sales in 2005 and are on pace in 2006 to exceed traditional SUV sales for the first time. Two distinct consumer trends have helped fuel the explosive growth of the CUV segment: car buyers seeking more spacious and flexible interiors along with the security of all-wheel drive, and traditional SUV buyers seeking more maneuverable and fuel-efficient vehicles that still make an active lifestyle possible. Most crossovers have been designed to closely resemble traditional SUVs. Edge heads to a new, unexplored part of the CUV market with a bold, modern, uniquely American design. Modern Design with a Dramatic Edge "Edge is not an off-road adventure vehicle, and it doesn’t look like one," says Peter Horbury, executive director, North America Design. "The inspiration for the Edge is contemporary design and an adventurous state of mind." Edge’s visual promise of dynamic prowess begins with its bold front end. Its distinctive three-bar chromed grille builds on the great look of the Ford Fusion. An aggressively raked windshield and fast-sloping back window with high-mounted rear spoiler accentuate the feeling of motion. Quad-beam headlamps and a "powerdome" hood accentuate the purposeful front-end look. Each wheel is planted at an extreme corner, giving Edge a powerful, yet graceful stance. The raised beltline emphasizes strong, sculpted shoulders formed around sharp wheel arches. Matte black lower front and rear fascias and side rocker panels emphasize Edge’s sporty character. Edge’s modern design flows into the interior, evident in the instrument panel and distinctive center stack. The center stack design incorporates two 9- by 2-inch vertical vents that bracket the audio and climate-control switches. All-leather seating surfaces feature contrasting stitching inspired by the fashion industry and a hit with Fusion customers. "Edge has an expressive look that evokes a connection with the customer’s lifestyle," Horbury says. "It was important that we design Edge to have maximum flexibility in the amount of gear it can accommodate while still offering customers a contemporary vehicle they can take out on the town." Adaptable, Flexible Design Edge is designed to fit the customer’s need for style as well as cargo space and adaptability. For example, the large center console uses a removable divider and tray to organize the space both vertically and horizontally for everything from laptop computers and handbags to coins and MP3 players. An optional concealed plug means that the Edge has four power points, three within the driver’s reach, along with a segment-first MP3 audio jack. Small slots molded into the side of the console keep phone and MP3 cords neat and organized. The console lid has a ticket clip, two pen holders and a tissue holder. The reconfigurable center console can hold objects as large as a laptop and features a concealed power point and MP3-audio input jack. Edge also is big on details. A 20-ounce-cup holder is included in each front-door map pocket, along with juice box holders in the rear door pockets, two super-size-cup holders in the center console and two in the rear armrest. Edge offers comfortable seating for five or can accommodate items up to 8 feet long with the rear seats and front passenger seat folded flat. Edge comfortably seats five, offering available six-way power, heated, adjustable front seats and best-in-class adult headroom and legroom for the second row. An easy-to-use available folding front-passenger seat creates an extended load floor. The 60/40 reclining split second row folds to provide a level load floor for carrying equipment in the large cargo area. Edge can transport items as long as 8 feet inside with the front passenger seat folded down. Each rear seat can be folded manually using an industry-first single-hand release or automatically with an available EasyFold™ electro-mechanical remote release accessible from the rear cargo area. Edge options include Ford’s next-generation DVD-based navigation system and factory-installed Sirius satellite radio. Rear-seat passengers can enjoy the available DVD entertainment system with a drop-down 8-inch screen and two pairs of wireless headphones. Class-Exclusive Panoramic Vista Roof™ Edge’s class-exclusive Vista Roof™ glass roof brings open-air motoring to the crossover segment. Edge’s available panoramic Vista Roof™ opens up a whole world of possibilities. The large glass moon roof provides a grand view of the sky above and can open for a sense of freedom that accentuates Edge’s sporting nature. The tilt-and-slide front roof and fixed rear glass panel of the Vista Roof™ provide panoramic views for front and rear passengers. The roof features a large 27.3- by 29.4-inch forward panel that offers tilt and slide opening, and a 15.75- by 31.3-inch fixed rear glass panel. A one-touch-open switch provides open-air touring. Close the forward roof, and the enormous skylights allow natural light to flood the cabin, while protecting the cabin from the elements. When preferred, the twin power-operated cloth shades can be closed simultaneously to block glare. "When you sit in this vehicle and look up and see the sky all around you, you just want to take it out for a drive and chase the horizon," says Horbury. Engaging Driving Dynamics Set Edge Apart Edge embodies a unique sense of adventure. "We’ve instilled Edge with balanced, agile and fun-to-drive dynamics," says Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Product Development. "Getting to wherever you’re going can be part of the fun of the adventure." Edge’s modern car-based foundation facilitates its excellent driving character. The front suspension features MacPherson struts and an isolated subframe, firmly attached in six locations. To further smooth out the ride, hydro-bushings are used. The four-link independent rear suspension uses stamped steel control blades for precise suspension tuning. The rear shocks are mounted as far outboard as possible in the vehicle and behind the wheel center to improve ride and handling. Edge comes standard with four-wheel-disc anti-lock brakes. Edge’s solid foundation and advanced independent rear suspension create an engaging driving experience. "We tuned Edge to be very responsive, offering drivers a confident ride without compromising the fun-to-drive quotient," says Elaine Bannon, Edge chief vehicle engineer. Edge’s all-new 3.5-liter V-6 features a strong, lightweight, die-cast aluminum block and lightweight 4-valve-per-cylinder heads for smooth operation at high rpm. A 10.3:1 compression ratio and close-coupled catalysts will help it meet stringent ultra-low emission vehicle (ULEV) II regulations. The all-new 6-speed automatic transmission uses a wide 6.04:1 gear ratio to deliver good fuel economy and performance. Short first and second gears provide impressive launch and acceleration, while the tall overdrive gears deliver 7 percent better fuel economy than a 4-speed automatic. Edge’s available intelligent all-wheel-drive (AWD) system was tuned with an emphasis on performance while offering confident all-weather driving. By constantly monitoring and predicting traction, the system delivers torque to all four wheels, even before the wheels begin to slip. An active on-demand coupler can deliver the precise amount of torque to the rear wheels. Paired with available AdvanceTrac® traction control, intelligent AWD can transfer torque front-to-rear and side-to-side. Safety Begins with Accidents Avoided Edge customers will find peace of mind in Ford’s comprehensive approach to safety, including standard active safety technology and comprehensive passive safety features. "Edge’s confident handling helps drivers avoid accidents, especially when paired with the industry-exclusive AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control (RSC®)," says Stephen Kozak, Ford Safety chief engineer. "Should an accident occur, Edge features a comprehensive package of passive safety features to help provide enhanced safety performance." Ford’s AdvanceTrac® with RSC®, standard on Edge, is the industry’s only electronic stability control system that uses two gyroscopic sensors to monitor both yaw and roll motions. Monitoring both motions allows for yaw-control enhancements, providing class-leading side-slip and roll stability control. Edge comes standard with dual-stage driver and front-passenger air bags, an energy-absorbing steering wheel and knee bolster for the driver and an energy-absorbing glove box for the passenger. The driver seat uses a seat position sensor while the passenger seat uses an occupant classification sensor – both are equipped with load-limiting safety belts and pretensioners. Edge offers several layers of side-impact protection, including solid unibody construction with cross-member ladder frame, a reinforced greenhouse, energy-absorbing side door trim, standard seat-mounted side air bags and Ford’s Safety Canopy™ system with rollover detection and extended-duration side curtain air bags. Impressive Interior Quietness Edge’s well-rounded, modern performance extends to impressive refinement, enhancing the driving experience. Engineers spent hundreds of hours fine-tuning Edge’s interior ambiance. For example, the side mirrors were specifically designed to reduce wind noise. Even the radio antenna was scrutinized. Engineers took clay modelers into the wind tunnel to fine-tune the mirror design. By modifying the pitch and height of the spiral by tenths of a millimeter, wind noise was reduced by as much as two decibels. Ford Aims for CUV Leadership Edge joins Ford's CUV growth, which outpaced the competition in 2005. With its unique combination of styling, capability and driving dynamics, Edge is the perfect complement to Ford Motor Company’s expanding CUV lineup. Ford outpaced the competition in CUV growth in 2005 and looks to further energize the CUV market in 2006 with the new Edge and two other crossovers – the Lincoln MKX and Mazda CX-7. Ford Edge goes on sale in the fourth quarter of 2006. It will be manufactured at Ford’s Oakville Assembly Complex in Ontario, Canada.