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As Holden transitions from a local manufacturer to importer, this brings up the concern of what kind of vehicles will be available to brand. Previously, Holden had a limited choice of vehicles to choose from due to the requirement of being right-hand drive. But now, General Motors is promising a larger selection of vehicles for Holden to choose from. This could open the door for various models from the U.S. and other countries. This change comes down to GM's vehicle architectures becoming more flexible and used globally, along with a new way of thinking as GM's design boss Mike Simcoe explained, “Where we see there’s a need to have right-hand drive, yeah. We’ll have the ability to make a choice but the architecture will accommodate left- and right-hand drive” “The reality is as we reduce the total number of architectures they are going to be more global. We don’t design a vehicle specifically for North America anymore, because you always get caught out if you do. The numbers of those is reducing,” Simcoe went on to say. A key example is the GMC Acadia heading down to Australia as a Holden - due in 2018. That doesn't mean Holden will be able to pick any model they want freely. They still have to make a business case as to why they need a particular model. "I think it is looking at what are the global applications because in certain vehicles, like Camaro, there would be markets outside Australia and New Zealand, and understanding looking through it a lens of; does this make business sense? Does this make customer sense? Is it the right thing to do from a competitive perspective? So it's really a mix of variables that we take into account," said Lowell Paddock, head of product planning for General Motors International. Source: Drive.com.au, Wheels View full article

How many models does the entire Volkswagen group sell around the world? 75? 125? How about 340 models. No that isn't a misprint. According to German business paper Handelsblatt, that is the amount all of the brands of the German automaker build. CEO Matthias Müller believes that is too many. "The total number of our today around 340 model variants, we are in the course of reducing," Volkswagen CEO Matthias Müller at a press conference last week. But how many models are going on the chopping block? Sources tell Handelsblatt that 40 plus models will be cut. "A decision on how many models will be phased out or ceased has not been taken yet," said a Volkswagen spokesman to Reuters when asked for comment. Source: Handelsblatt (Subscription Required) Reuters View full article

G. David Felt Staff Writer Alternative Energy - www.CheersandGears.com According to the Today show this morning, Volkswagen has for the first 6 months of the 2015 year taken over Toyota and pushed GM to 3rd in worldwide sales. http://www.today.com/video/volkswagen-overtakes-toyota-in-worldwide-sales-493330499874 With that then VW follows it up with the normal financial reporting of earnings up 18% for the first 6 months, revenue grew 10.3% to $52.74 billion for the first half. This is on top of VW saying over all deliveries will be flat in 2015 compared to 2014 but due to efficiency and currency translations profits will grow. Yet with this positive info, VW stock is down 30% for the year. http://news.investors.com/business/072915-763993-volkswagen-q2-beats-forecasts-lackluster-sales.htm The story goes on to report that VW sold 5.04 million autos in the world, Toyota sold 5.02 million and GM was just a distant 3rd in global sales. Guess people mostly like bland boring auto design. Sad

Before the Detroit Auto Show, Ford has made some big announcements concering their performance cars. First was the announcement of a new performance division named Ford Performance. The division will unify Ford SVT, Team RS, and Ford Racing to create performance vehicles, parts, accessories and experiences for customers. Leading this new group will be Mustang chief engineer Dave Pericak. "Ford remains committed to innovation through performance. Our new global Ford Performance team ties together racing, performance vehicles and parts. It will allow us to more quickly introduce products and accessories that meet the needs of customers around the world on-road and on the track,” said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president of Global Product Development. The new group will be in charge of twelve new performance vehicles through 2020. The first of those vehicles will be the new Focus RS, which will be sold worldwide for the first time. Ford didn't announce any details about the RS, but rumors have it packing a 2.3L EcoBoost four with over 300 horsepower and all-wheel drive. Source: Ford Press Release is on Page 2 DEC 11, 2014 | DEARBORN, MICH. FORD DRIVING PERFORMANCE INNOVATION TO NEW LEVELS; MORE THAN 12 VEHICLES COMING FROM NEW GLOBAL TEAM Ford bringing more global performance vehicles to customers worldwide; more than 12 new performance vehicles through 2020 – including Focus RS – to be available globally Ford uniting regional performance engineering and racing teams as one global team under Ford Performance, delivering more new vehicles and parts, more quickly Ford will deliver more than 12 new performance vehicles for global enthusiasts through 2020, as the company announced today its new global Ford Performance team. The vehicles include an all-new Focus RS that will be available to customers in major markets around the world for the first time. It is part of Ford’s plan to deliver even more performance vehicles, parts and accessories for customers around the world more quickly. “Ford remains committed to innovation through performance,” said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. “Our new global Ford Performance team ties together racing, performance vehicles and parts. It will allow us to more quickly introduce products and accessories that meet the needs of customers around the world on-road and on the track.” Focus RS, which builds on a pedigree of driving excellence dating to the first Ford RS in 1968, was last introduced in 2009. “To earn the RS badge, the vehicle has to be a no-compromise driver’s car that can deliver exceptional performance on the track when required while providing excellent every day driving,” said Nair. Focus RS will join Ford’s existing performance lineup, including Fiesta ST, Focus ST, Shelby GT350 Mustang and F-150 Raptor. In addition to pleasing enthusiasts, these vehicles help deliver the company’s One Ford plan for profitable growth, product excellence and innovation in every part of its business. Performance vehicle sales are growing around the world – with sales up 70 percent in the United States and 14 percent in Europe since 2009. Ford’s ST lineup, for example, is attracting younger buyers who love to drive. In the United States, more than 65 percent of ST customers come from outside the Ford brand, and more than 50 percent of Ford performance vehicle owners’ next vehicle purchase is a Ford. Millennials are purchasing ST vehicles at a rate twice that of other Ford-branded vehicles. Powering performance vehicles, such as Fiesta ST and Focus ST, is Ford’s award-winning EcoBoost® engine range. Since the introduction of the EcoBoost engine in 2009, Ford has produced more than 2 million EcoBoost engines globally. “EcoBoost is a strong example of how we are migrating technology and engineering across our lineup, ensuring our vehicles are fun to drive – not just our Ford Performance lineup,” said Nair. “From our most nimble Fiesta to our hard-working full-size pickups and racing vehicles, our lineup benefits from the innovations we deliver at the track and at the limit.” For instance, the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine in the IMSA TUDOR Championship series powers a record-setting Daytona racing prototype sports car, as well as Ford cars, trucks and utility vehicles. Another example of this technology transfer can be found in the recently revealed Shelby GT350 Mustang, which goes on sale next year in the United States and Canada. Aerodynamic innovations developed through Ford’s investment in racing were applied to the front end of the new Shelby GT350 Mustang, helping improve downforce in the car as well as cooling. Ford considers racing an important proving ground for cultivating passionate engineers – allowing them to innovate in top-level competition as they face challenges that require successful solutions in very compressed time frames. New global teamThe new Ford Performance organization unifies Ford SVT, Team RS and Ford Racing globally, serving as an innovation laboratory and test bed to create unique performance vehicles, parts, accessories and experiences for customers. This includes developing innovations and technologies in aerodynamics, light-weighting, electronics, powertrain performance and fuel efficiency that can be applied more broadly to Ford’s product portfolio. In addition to using racetracks around the world, the team will develop new vehicles and technologies at Ford’s engineering centers globally and at the new technical center in Charlotte, North Carolina. This state-of-the-art facility will help the team deliver racing innovations, as well as advance tools for use in performance vehicles and daily drivers alike. The Ford Performance organization is led by Dave Pericak, who has been appointed director, Global Ford Performance. Heritage of performance innovation Performance and racing are deeply embedded in Ford’s DNA, dating back 113 years when Henry Ford won the Sweepstakes Race against Alexander Winton, then America’s greatest racer. Following Henry Ford’s remarkable upset victory in front of Detroit’s elite businessmen, some immediately came forward to back whatever automotive venture he had in mind. Ford Motor Company opened 18 months later. “Ford still races for the same reasons Henry Ford did in 1901 – to prove out our products and technologies against the very best in the world,” said Nair. “The Ford Performance team will continue to pursue performance innovation, ensuring we can deliver even more coveted performance cars, utilities and trucks to customers around the world.” View full article

Today at Ford's headquarters in Dearborn, Michigan, the automaker revealed the 2015 Edge. The model which we saw in concept form at last year's LA Auto Show will be sold globally for the first time. The production version of the Edge fits into Ford's global design language. The front is very reminiscent of Ford's SUVs and crossovers with the large grille and distinctively-styled headlights. Around back is a taillight treatment that combines the Fusion and Lincoln MKC. Size-wise, the 2015 Edge is about one-inch longer, and rides on a wheelbase that is four-inches longer. Moving inside, the Edge features the same dash layout as the Explorer. That includes the digital gauge cluster and MyFordTouch system in the center stack. Interior space has been increased by seven cubic feet. Powering the Edge is the choice of three different engines. The base will be the 2.0L EcoBoost four, followed by the 3.5L V6, and the 2.7L EcoBoost rounds out the lineup. Ford hasn't released specs on any of the engines at this time. All engines will be paired to a six-speed automatic and front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is available on all engine choices. Ford has also worked on the driving dynamics of the 2015 Edge. The suspension has been redesigned and more high-strength steel has been used throughout the body to improve stiffness and ride comfort. An adaptive electric steering system is said to make the Edge more maneuverable and dynamic. The 2015 Edge goes on sale in the U.S. in early 2015, followed by other markets. Source: Ford William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 All-New 2015 Edge Showcases Ford's Best Technology, More Driver-Assist Features, Improved Performance, Craftsmanship • 2015 Edge will go on sale in North America early next year as a showcase of Ford innovation – from a new design that excites to technology that comforts, the all-new Edge sets a benchmark for Ford utility vehicles • Available driver-assist technologies include adaptive steering system, enhanced active park assist, adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support, 180-degree front camera with washer, glove box-mounted airbag system, inflatable rear safety belts and hands- free liftgate • 2015 Edge will be first Ford vehicle with standard EcoBoost® engine; new Sport model will be powered by most advanced EcoBoost yet – a 2.7-liter V6; premium-level Titanium series joins lineup DEARBORN, Mich., June 24, 2014 – The all-new Ford Edge demonstrates what happens when a proven leader gets even better. The original crossover utility vehicle from Ford is loaded with more technology, higher levels of craftsmanship and greatly improved vehicle dynamics. The 2015 Ford Edge is a better vehicle by every measure. When launched in late 2006, Edge helped to define the crossover sport utility vehicle segment in North America, the biggest such market in the world. With a car-based design, Edge delivered better on-road comfort, fuel efficiency and overall driving dynamics than any truck- based SUV. It was proof a utility vehicle could meet the demanding needs of an everyday commuter. The 2015 Edge revealed today in North America and Europe is all-new from wheels to roof, designed to reset the standard in the two-row utility vehicle market. Based on Ford's successful, global midsize vehicle platform, Edge has been reimagined with a stronger, more athletic shape. It has been retooled to meet higher expectations for quality, and reengineered to add more features and technologies for a more rewarding driving experience. The all-new Edge will be sold in more than 100 markets across the globe. "The original Edge was our first entry into the world of crossover utilities – a technologically advanced vehicle that was the perfect blend of sedan comfort and efficiency with SUV functionality," said Raj Nair, group vice president, Global Product Development. "Now, we are building on that success, and building on the emotional appeal of the vehicle by offering more of the technology our customers want in a package that meets the highest expectations for quality and craftsmanship."  With the new Edge, Ford is also building on its utility vehicle leadership around the world. Last year, the company sold a record 1.2 million utility vehicles in markets across the globe – up 38 percent from 2012. In North America, Ford was the top-selling utility vehicle brand for a third consecutive year in 2013. Ford utility vehicle sales have been strong elsewhere as well, increasing nearly 20 percent in Europe last year. In China, Ford's share of the utility vehicle segment is growing exponentially, increasing to 4.5 percent in 2013 from less than 1 percent in 2012. "For three years in a row, Ford has been the best-selling utility vehicle brand in North America and has been experiencing exponential growth in global markets," said Jim Farley, Ford group vice president, Global Marketing, Sales and Service and Lincoln. "The all-new Edge is the next chapter in this story. And it's a story driven by the emotional appeal of the vehicle – not its feature content." This emotional appeal is enhanced by a wealth of advanced technologies and new amenities. The all-new Edge will go on sale in North America in the first quarter of 2015, with sales following in Europe, South America and Asia Pacific markets. Dynamic all-new body and suspension The 2015 Edge, now based on the same global platform as the award-winning Ford Fusion that debuted in North America in 2012, will deliver the confident, smooth driving experience customers expect from Ford. "The all-new Edge has been remade in almost every single detail, always keeping in mind the customer, who expects something premium, powerful and special," said Judy Curran, vehicle line director for Ford. "With a structure more rigid than ever and a suspension tuned to the highest global standards, the 2015 Edge is a high-tech utility that delivers a special driving experience customers will feel from their first moments behind the wheel." Central to the improved driving dynamics is an entirely new body structure and redesigned suspension – front and rear – developed specifically to better isolate road imperfection and absorb noise without compromising handling. The front-wheel-drive Edge retains a MacPherson-type front suspension, but features an entirely new, sophisticated integral-link independent rear with coil springs and a 23-millimeter antiroll bar. The advanced new system has been tuned to deliver a more dynamic, engaging ride customers will feel immediately. Thanks in part to the use of more high-strength steels, the solid body structure of the all-new Edge provides a far better platform for the new suspension to work. Compared to the 2014 Edge, the new model shows a 26 percent increase in stiffness when reacting to bending forces and a 16 percent increase in stiffness when reacting to twisting forces. This means less noise, vibration and harshness characteristics, giving Edge customers a quieter, more substantial ride. As a result, Edge is well suited for an everyday commute, but ready to attack when the road opens up. All-new adaptive steering technology The all-new Edge will be the first Ford product to feature the company's adaptive steering technology, which will make the vehicle easier to maneuver and more fun to drive.  A standard feature on Edge Sport and available on the new Titanium series, adaptive steering changes the ratio between a driver's actions at the steering wheel – the number of turns – and how much the front wheels turn. In traditional steering systems, this is a fixed steering ratio. With Ford adaptive steering, the steering ratio continually changes with vehicle speed, optimizing steering response in all situations. At lower speeds, such as pulling into a parking space or maneuvering in tight quarters, the new system makes the vehicle more agile and easier to turn, as it dials more steering into the road wheel. Each low-speed maneuver requires less turning of the steering wheel. At highway speeds, the system further optimizes steering response, enabling Edge to react more smoothly and precisely to driver input. Adaptive steering technology can help make any drive more enjoyable. The Ford system uses a precision-controlled actuator placed inside the steering wheel, and requires no change to the vehicle's traditional steering system. The actuator – an electric motor and gearing system – can essentially add to or subtract from a driver's steering inputs. The result is a better, more engaging driving experience at all speeds. Two new engines, for a total of three power options In North America, the all-new Edge will feature three engine options, two of which are new powerplants – a standard twin-scroll 2.0-liter EcoBoost® four-cylinder and a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6. A normally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine will also be offered. All will be equipped with dual output exhaust and a six-speed automatic transmission. Edge represents the first Ford vehicle to feature standard EcoBoost power. The twin-scroll 2.0-liter EcoBoost, offering an estimated 245 horsepower and 270 lb.-ft. of torque, is significantly improved over the previous 2.0-liter EcoBoost. Beyond efficiency advantages, this new engine will also provide more capability. Edge equipped with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost can be specified with newly available all-wheel drive and a towing package capable of hauling a 3,500-pound trailer. Among a host of changes to the 2.0-liter EcoBoost is a twin-scroll design enabling optimized camshaft timing for improved engine performance and reduced turbo lag. A new, lighter engine block casting along with new aluminum balance shaft assembly shaves six pounds from the engine's gravitational weight. Other changes include lighter pistons; a newly designed, integrated exhaust manifold; and a new, high-pressure direct-injection fuel system for finer fuel atomization. These upgrades pave the way for an increased compression ratio of 9.7:1, up from 9.3:1, for improved overall fuel efficiency. Ford's Auto Start-Stop system will also be available with the twin-scroll EcoBoost engine on the new Edge. In heavy traffic, this technology can seamlessly shut down the engine to decrease fuel consumption, reducing tailpipe emissions to zero while the vehicle is stationary and the engine is off. On the other side of the engine spectrum is Edge Sport, with an exclusive, all-new 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine that will provide an exceptional combination of power and efficiency. Setting a new standard in world-class powertrain engineering, this twin-turbocharged V6 is one of the world's most advanced engines. Drawing its design from the best of the efficient Ford EcoBoost lineup, along with the unmatched durability of Ford Super Duty Power Stroke® diesel, this 2.7- liter EcoBoost provides a remarkable combination of advanced materials expertly applied. The 2.7-liter EcoBoost uses the same compacted graphite iron in its cylinder block as is used in the 6.7-liter Power Stroke. This advanced cylinder block allows for a remarkably stiff and compact design that returns exceptionally refined noise, vibration and harshness control. The compacted graphite iron core is mated with a die-cast aluminum engine-block ladder frame and composite oil pan, saving weight by applying advanced materials where they are needed most. The strength of the compacted graphite iron cylinder block allows the 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine to produce impressive power and torque for its size. Compact and efficient, the all-new engine can produce the power and torque of a mid-range V8. Expected to deliver more than 300 horsepower, this 2.7-liter EcoBoost will ensure Edge Sport is the highest-performance Edge ever. The suspension in Edge Sport has front and rear antiroll bars that are 15 percent stiffer than the base model, and unique rear monotube dampers that are larger in diameter. The coil springs are 10 percent thicker. Overall, with improved damping and control, Edge Sport offers 15 percent to 20 percent better road-holding capability, giving the driver more control, sharper steering and greater confidence. Paddle-activated SelectShift puts driver in control All three engines are mated to Ford's SelectShift® six-speed automatic transmission with paddle-shift activation. Drivers will have the ability to manually select gears via race-inspired paddles on the steering wheel. The paddle-shift system is standard on all models. The SelectShift transmission features two modes of operation – drive and sport. Sport mode offers a more aggressive shift pattern, allowing the engine to rev higher during acceleration, and hold lower gears longer to support spirited, fast-paced sessions. Unlike many paddle-shift systems, the Edge six-speed automatic is always "live in drive," so the driver won't have to select sport mode to enable operation. The available all-wheel-drive system for the new Edge is full-time, on-demand and seamless – there are no knobs or switches to activate. An electronically controlled clutch, which can engage faster than a human can blink, transfers power between the front and rear axles, sending up to 100 percent of the power front or back. New level of technology for better driving The 2015 Edge will be a technology leader for Ford, with a suite of standard and available technologies designed to improve the driving experience and the level of occupant comfort. Technologies being offered for the first time include adaptive steering, enhanced active park assist, side parking sensors and a front camera with washer. "The new Edge is a rolling showcase of Ford's commitment to developing and offering the latest, most advanced technology in the business," said Curran. "We know our customers have embraced technology – from smartphones to wearable devices that track their health. Technology is part of their lives. We want to make it part of their driving experience as well." Key technology features include:  • Active Grille Shutters: Available on select models to help counter air resistance • Adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support: Uses radar to detect moving vehicles directly ahead and change the cruising speed if necessary • Adaptive steering technology: Most advanced steering system ever from Ford makes Edge easier to maneuver and more fun to drive by optimizing steering response in all conditions • Air curtain: Creates a curtain of air alongside the vehicle using smart duct work, improving aerodynamics at high speed • Auto Start-Stop technology: Turns the engine off to save fuel when the vehicle is stopped, then restarts the engine in milliseconds when the brake is released; specially tuned for Edge • Blind Spot Information System: BLIS® uses radar to trigger a warning when another motorist is in the driver's blind spot • Cameras: New 180-degree front camera with washer featured for first time on a Ford vehicle; standard rear camera • Cross-traffic alert: Uses radar to help alert drivers to oncoming traffic when backing out of a parking space • Enhanced active park assist: Builds on Ford parallel parking technology and includes a system to guide the vehicle into a perpendicular parking space. The system can also steer the vehicle into and out of a parallel parking space • Forward and reverse sensing systems: The systems provide audible alerts designed to help drivers avoid obstacles when parking • Hands-free liftgate: Allows customer to move leg below center of the rear bumper to unlock and raise liftgate • Heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel: Amenities make occupants more comfortable, and every drive more enjoyable • Lane-keeping system: Alerts driver to steer the vehicle back into its lane if the vehicle is allowed to drift • Side parking sensors: uses sensors and algorithms that measure speed and steering wheel angle to warn drivers of obstacles on either side of the vehicle during parking or low-speed maneuvers • SYNC® with MyFord Touch®: Becoming available for more trim levels; standard on Edge Sport and Titanium series Safety technologies available on the new Edge include: • Active glove box knee airbag: Advanced new design uses glove box front to cushion the knees of the front seat passenger in a crash. A pliable, injection-molded plastic bladder is sandwiched between the inner and outer glove box door panels. On impact, a small inflator fills the bladder, extending the glove box outer door panel toward the passenger's legs • AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability ControlTM: Uses sensors to measure the roll rate of the vehicle and predict its roll angle. Based on this information and measurements from other vehicle dynamics sensors, the system can adjust engine torque and brake pressure at all four wheels to help the driver maintain control of the vehicle • Curve Control: Uses the same sensors as Roll Stability Control to detect and measure roll rate, yaw rate, lateral acceleration, wheel speed and steering wheel angle to help drivers follow their intended path by slowing the vehicle more efficiently while maneuvering a curve • Inflatable rear safety belts: An advanced restraint system that combines attributes of safety belt and airbag technologies. It is designed to reduce head, neck and chest injuries for rear seat passengers in frontal crashes by distributing crash force energy across five times more of an occupant's torso than a traditional safety belt. Inflatable belts are available for second-row outboard seating positions Higher standards for quality and craftsmanship The 2015 Edge will be available in four trim levels. These include SE, SEL, Sport and – for the first time – a top-of-the-line Titanium series to meet market demand for more premium offerings. "We really focused on meeting the highest craftsmanship standards in developing the all-new Edge," said Kim Cape, marketing manager, Ford Large Cars and Utilities. "The idea was to create not just a high-quality exterior and interior, but to give the customer a holistic, premium experience. "The Titanium trim level has been a real success story for Ford – particularly in products such as Fusion, Escape and Flex. Our customers are telling us, 'We are interested in technology and a premium look and feel.' Titanium delivers that." Overall, the 2015 Edge represents a significant move forward in both material and visual quality. Throughout the vehicle, seams are tighter and more consistent, and the design has been executed in a way that reduces visual cutlines. The team worked out the smallest of details, such as rethinking how the front doors meet the instrument panel, simplifying merging points and reducing potential alignment issues. The dashboard and center console have also been carefully designed and shaped to look like one thin, streamlined piece. A central 8-inch LCD touch screen supporting SYNC with MyFord Touch is now available on even more models. Storage areas have been improved throughout the cabin, with a covered media bin on top of the center stack; an open, pass-through-type storage area beneath the climate controls; an open storage area on the instrument panel, below and to the left of the steering wheel; and large pockets on each door. Thanks in part to smart design work and next-generation seats that are thinner and more supportive, the interior of the new Edge is larger and more spacious. Adding further to the feeling of openness, Edge will continue to offer one of the largest sunroofs in the business – Ford's Panoramic Vista Roof, measuring 47.7 inches front to back. Legroom in the first and second row of the new Edge has increased by 1.9 inches and 1.0 inch, respectively. Headroom increases by 1.0 inch throughout. Cargo capacity increases, with 39.2 cubic feet of space behind the second row of seats – 7.0 cubic feet more than the previous model. With the second row folded, space has increased by 4.5 cubic feet, to 73.4 cubic feet. The new Edge is slightly longer and taller than its predecessor, and the wheelbase increases by 1.0 inch, to 112.2 inches. Quieter than ever The all-new Edge is not only more luxurious and comfortable, but also quieter. In wind tunnel tests, Edge proved to be more than 1 sone quieter than its predecessor (a sone is a unit used to measure how loud a sound is perceived). This enhanced quietness is due to better sealing of the body, sound insulation improvements, and powertrains that are better isolated from the cabin and operate in a quieter manner. Acoustic windshield glass is standard on every model. Select Titanium models are even quieter, incorporating acoustic glass on driver and passenger side doors. The twin-scroll 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, for example, has reduced vibration levels when idling compared to the previous version, and is 2 decibels quieter. In moments of heavy acceleration, the revamped engine emits a quieter, more refined sound. This is due to multiple changes including an acoustic wrap to the intake manifold, upgraded heat shield that provides additional sound management and modified oil pump. Edge Sport will be equipped with Active Noise Cancellation technology from Ford to manage and enhance the sound of its powerful 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine. Using three microphones strategically placed throughout the cabin, the system is able to generate opposing sound waves directed through the audio system, enhancing overall cabin ambience. Even the tires have been selected to deliver a better on-road experience. The 20-inch tires available on Sport and Titanium trim levels are a full 2 decibels quieter – reducing unpleasant road noises often associated with larger wheels. Built to be the best The all-new Edge will be built at Ford's Oakville Assembly Complex, near Toronto, where a $700 million (U.S.) renovation has delivered significant improvements to the facility. In preparation for 2015 Edge production, the plant has been fitted with more than 250 new, more advanced robots to improve the build quality and repeatability performance of the equipment. Many of these robots have been installed to work to the most demanding levels of precision – with duties that require thousandths of an inch accuracy to ensure repeatable, high- quality assembly. "Some unique technologies have come into the plant, all of it designed to bring a higher level of quality at a rate that is capable of being repeated," said William Cowell, Oakville Assembly plant manager. "The higher level of complexity in the build process means employees are interfacing with more advanced systems and technology that can significantly improve quality in ways that our customers will be able to see and feel." View full article