DEARBORN, Mich., July 19, 2010 – The Ford Explorer has been redesigned to smash long-held conception about SUV fuel economy and performance .
The 2011 model powered with an optional 2.0-liter EcoBoost™ I-4 engine will be the new class leader in the mid-size SUV segment , achieving on average a 30 percent increase in fuel economy in comparison with the existing V-6-powered Explorer.
“The latest Explorer will give a big universe of existing and prospective customers the capability they expect and the luxury and ease they need , all combined with the fuel efficiency they need,” said Mark Fields, Ford president of The Americas.
The newest Explorer, due in Ford showrooms any time this year, has added comfort and convenience features , while overall vehicle weight is reduced as compared to the existing model. Wide use of lighter and stronger high-strength steels such as boron add durability while saving weight. An aluminum hood is added , while a one-piece composite front bolster – the radiator support between engine and grille – is 65 percent lighter. Lighter weight means to fuel and money saved.
Highly modernized engine controls and advanced technologies are main contributors to the Explorer’s better fuel efficiency . Electric power-assisted steering, battery maintenance , quick engine warm-up and aggressive deceleration fuel shutoff all join to improve drive dynamics and save fuel. Explorer also offers the first North American Ford application of a variable-displacement air conditioning compressor that reduces bloodsucking engine drag.
Powertrain advancements like twin independent variable camshaft timing and 6 -speed automatic transmissions help Explorer deliver responsive performance when required joint with low-rpm efficiency when cruising.
SUV buyers placing highest importance on fuel efficiency can choose the available EcoBoost I-4. Producing the power of a normally aspirated V6, this modernized engine pairs a turbocharger with direct fuel injection to provide SUV customers with projected class-leading fuel economy – pending EPA certification – with no compromise in performance.
Finally , all of these fuel saving up gradations are wrapped in a smooth, distinctive Explorer design that was comprehensively refined in wind tunnel trials . Designers and aerodynamicists worked jointly to reshape sideview mirrors and harmonize the front air dam with the rear liftgate spoiler to significantly raise fuel savings on the highway. Reduced wind noise at speed is an incremental benefit.
Bought to you by Van Reviews and Van Leasing
Related posts: