Ford Archives - Heels & Horsepower Magazine

Ford Takes Parking to the Next Level, with an Automated Valet

vuyi on September 9, 2021

The search for a parking space can be a daunting endeavour, and when a space is found, it might be a tight squeeze to get the vehicle in. The solution? Leave that work to the vehicle.

As part of a German Association of the Automobile Industry collaboration, Ford has partnered with infrastructure providers and technology companies, including Bosch, to demonstrate the potential for a connected vehicle to communicate with the car park infrastructure to not only find a space but to park itself too. Automated Valet Parking enables drivers to use an app to send the vehicle into an automated parking manoeuvre – all from outside the vehicle.

The technology, currently in the research and demonstration phase, takes the stress out of parking and could be extended to enable drivers to send the vehicle to a car wash or charging station; or even have parcels delivered to the vehicle in the car park.

Ford will demonstrate Automated Valet Parking at IAA in Munich, running from September 6-12.

In Europe, a standard parking space is 2.44 metres by 4.88 metres. But while vehicles have become increasingly larger over the years, many parking spaces have stayed the same size.

Automated Valet Parking could enable up to 20 percent more vehicles to be parked in a car park – without the potential for damage resulting from vehicles parking too close to each other or occupants opening doors against other vehicles.

How it works

With Automated Valet Parking, sensor technology set up in the car park takes over the control of the vehicle and manages all the traffic inside the parking area. This is done via vehicle-to-infrastructure communication.

The car park sensors recognise and localise the vehicle to guide its parking manoeuvre. If the infrastructure senses something in the vehicle’s path, such as a pedestrian, vehicle or hazard, it stops the vehicle immediately.

Upon arriving at the car park, the driver leaves the vehicle in a designated area and uses the FordPass app to start the automated guidance to a free parking space.*

When the car is parked, it could also become a personal parcel drop-off point, with delivery companies accessing the vehicle to leave parcels in the boot.

In the future, further connected services could be developed to offer more convenience and benefits to customers.

Drivers use the FordPass app to request the return of the vehicle to the designated area, expediting the pick-up experience and enabling the driver and passengers to comfortably enter the vehicle. This saves any long walks through large car parks or the potential problem of trying to find the vehicle again.

Sadly the technology is not available in South Africa and in all likelihood will not be available to us any time soon.

The Ranger Stormtrak – coming to a Ford dealership near you soon

vuyi on August 16, 2021

Ford South Africa is introducing another unique and appealing iteration based on the upmarket Wildtrak – the Ranger Stormtrak.

Following the remarkable success of the limited-edition Ford Ranger Thunder in 2020, Ford South Africa is introducing another unique and appealing iteration based on the upmarket Wildtrak – the Ranger Stormtrak – later this year.

“The Ranger Thunder was exceptionally well received when we launched it a year ago, proving unequivocally that there is strong demand for range-topping models that offer something different from the norm,” says Doreen Mashinini, General Manager for Marketing at Ford South Africa.

The new Ranger Stormtrak follows the same recipe as the limited-edition Thunder, by elevating the style, sophistication and exclusivity of our most luxuriously appointed model in the Ranger line-up.

“The new Ranger Stormtrak follows the same recipe as the limited-edition Thunder, by elevating the style, sophistication and exclusivity of our most luxuriously appointed model in the Ranger line-up,” Mashinini says.

In Stormtrak guise, the Ranger seems to have gained several muscular, attention-grabbing design elements, including a striking black mesh grille with red inserts, a black insert in the lower section of the front bumper, black decals for the bonnet and doors, black roof rails and 18-inch alloy wheels finished in gloss black.

Further identifying this limited-edition Ranger’s special status are three-dimensional Stormtrak logos on the lower sections of the front doors, as well as on the rear tailgate. The upcoming introduction of the Ranger Stormtrak also sees the addition of a vibrant new paint colour, Lucid Red. It can also be specified in Sea Grey, Frozen White and Blue Lightning.

It seems it’s not just on the styling front that the Ranger Stormtrak has gained special treatment, as practicality has been elevated too thanks to the standard fitment of Ford’s new Power Roller Shutter for the rear load compartment.

This ensures that goods can be safely secured in the loadbed with ease, complemented by the tailgate locking mechanism being integrated into the vehicle’s central locking system.

Adding further versatility is the adjustable bed divider kit that makes it easy for the owner to compartmentalise the cargo area according to the size of the items being carried – thus preventing goods from shifting around when driving. A drop-in bedliner provides a useful 12-volt socket for powering accessories such as a camping fridge.

Step into the cabin and you are greeted with sumptuous luxury and attention to detail – including illuminated front scuff plates.

This theme is continued on the premium leather seats which incorporate striking red stitching, as well as the Stormtrak logo taking pride of place on the front seat backrests.

Red stitching is used throughout the leather-trimmed cabin, including on the soft-touch dashboard upper, steering wheel and gear lever, further enhancing the sporty ambience.

As with the Ranger Wildtrak, the premium level of standard features is exceptional, including the SYNC®3 infotainment system with embedded navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as FordPass functionality that allows the owner to remotely access numerous vehicle features from their phone – such as remote and scheduled starts to either cool or heat the cabin.

Also standard is an extensive list of innovative active and passive safety systems and driver aids, such as Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Forward Collision Alert, Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Keeping Alert and Lane Keeping Aid, Driver Alert System, and Semi-Automatic Parallel Park Assist.

In line with its range-topping status, the Ranger Stormtrak is powered by Ford’s 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo engine which produces 157kW and 500Nm. It is paired with an advanced 10-speed automatic transmission that delivers seamless shifts matched to responsive performance and impressive fuel economy. The Ranger’s towing capacity of 3 500kg remains unchanged, along with the 800mm water wading depth and 230mm ground clearance.

Pricing for the Ranger Stormtrak will be announced closer to launch in late Q3.

Securi-lid Roll Top Cover Now Available on Ford Ranger Wildtrak

vuyi on August 16, 2021

Securi-Lid Roll Top Cover provides additional practicality and security, while maintaining the distinctive looks of the Ranger Wildtrak

The versatility and security of the Ford Ranger Wildtrak has been enhanced with the introduction of the Securi-lid Roll Top Cover – now available as a Ford-approved accessory exclusively on the Ranger Wildtrak, and available for order through Ford’s nationwide dealer network.

How it works

The attractive black Securi-lid Roll Top Cover is both sleek and secure, providing a side-locking system and a retractable lid, which offers an adjustable mid-stop position for ease of use.

Access to the rear load compartment is further enhanced by the Ranger’s Easy Lift tailgate, with its innovative torsion rod system that dampens the opening action and reduces the initial lift force to raise the tailgate by 70 percent. The locking mechanism of the tailgate is integrated into the vehicle’s central locking system, thus providing ultimate peace of mind.

The Roll Top Cover is fitted using structurally mounted brackets with no drilling required, in line with Ford’s warranty terms. It also incorporates integrated channels on the side rails that accommodate the mounting of accessories such as fastening rings and a variety of racking systems.

Pricing

The Securi-lid Roll Top Cover comes at a recommended retail price of R21 213 (incl VAT), which includes the cost of installation by an authorized Securi-lid fitment centre.

Ford South Africa Supporting COVID-19 Vaccination Drive with Clinics at Manufacturing Plants

vuyi on August 13, 2021

Ford South Africa is making an important contribution to tackling the COVID-19 pandemic by opening specialised Vaccination Clinics at both of its local manufacturing plants, with the cooperation and approval of the National Department of Health (NDOH).

The clinic at Ford’s Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria opened in June 2021, and was the second workplace vaccination site to receive NDOH authorisation, giving employees and on-site contractors convenient access to the COVID-19 vaccinations in line with the government guidelines and age groups, regardless of their medical aid status.

We are proud to be playing an important role in reinforcing the South African government’s efforts to significantly ramp up its COVID-19 vaccinations.
– Dhiren Vanmali, head of up Ford Motor Company South Africa Government Affairs

To date, over 3 600 Pfizer vaccines have been administered at the Silverton Assembly Plant, with more than 1 200 employees and contractors having received their second doses. This project is now being rolled out at the Ford Struandale Engine Plant in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth).

Dhiren Vanmali and Dr Herina Grobler at the Ford Motor Company South Africa vaccine centre

“The vaccination drive, and the establishment of the Vaccination Clinics at both of our local plants, follows extensive engagement with the National Department of Health which enabled us to assist government’s efforts in tackling the COVID-19 pandemic through the workplace vaccination programme,” says Dhiren Vanmali who headed up Ford’s Government Affairs department before assuming a new role as Sales Operations Director in June 2021.

“We are proud to be playing an important role in reinforcing the South African government’s efforts to significantly ramp up its COVID-19 vaccinations, as an essential tool in fighting this pandemic that has impact our lives in so many ways,” Vanmali says.

Ford South Africa’s relief measures during this unprecedented health crisis began in April 2020 during the Level 5 national lockdown, when it commenced production of protective face shields at the Silverton Assembly Plant to enhance the safety of frontline medical workers.

Over 285 000 face shields were produced, the majority of which were donated to the NDOH along with numerous hospitals, clinics and humanitarian organisations to support their crucial work. Vehicles were loaned to several non-profit organisations, and Ford Fund grants were provided to equip communities with essential goods, including food parcels, sanitisers and face masks.

In preparation for the resumption of manufacturing operations, dedicated Flu Clinics were established at both of Ford’s manufacturing plants.

In March this year, we donated R2.5-million to the National Institute for Occupational Health (NIOH) to help fund the enhancement of the Occupational Health Surveillance System (OHSS).

The company’s committed team of nurses and health workers, headed by Dr Herina Grobler, worked closely with the NDOH in establishing protocols for the safe return of employees and contractors – including COVID-19 screening, effective handling of positive cases, and extensive training and awareness campaigns regarding COVID-19 symptoms and prevention measures.

“In March this year, we donated R2.5-million to the National Institute for Occupational Health (NIOH) to help fund the enhancement of the Occupational Health Surveillance System (OHSS), further reinforcing Ford’s commitment to the government’s crucial COVID-19 mitigation measures for the South African population,” Vanmali says.

The OHSS monitors workers in the public and private sectors, using data supplied by employers on COVID-19 infections in the workplace under the direction of the Department of Employment and Labour. The data helps to identify industries and occupational groups at risk of infection and analyses the impact on industries and occupational groups. The data is used to inform appropriate interventions – including policies, programs and resources.

WATCH: Ford Mustang Mach 1 Driving Shots

vuyi on July 1, 2021

The Ford Mustang Mach 1 is the most track-focused Mustang yet, and it has officially touched down in South Africa.

As an exclusive limited-edition model, only 90 units are available for the South African market, making the new Mustang Mach 1 a highly sought-after car

Mustang Mach 1	TREMEC six-speed manual transmission	Ford 10-speed automatic transmission
Power	338kW @ 7 250 r/min
Torque	529Nm @ 4 900 r/min
Acceleration 0‑100 km/h	4.8 seconds	4.4 seconds
Acceleration quarter-mile (400 metres)	13.0 seconds	12.6 seconds
Braking 100-0 km/h	31.8 metres	31.9 metres
Top speed	267 km/h	249 km/h

PRICING

Mustang Mach 1 5.0 V8 6MT R1 182 100 incl. VAT

Mustang Mach 1 5.0 V8 10AT R1 203 800 incl. VAT

All Mustang models come standard with Ford Protect, comprising a four-year/120 000km comprehensive warranty, three-year/unlimited distance roadside assistance and five-year/unlimited km corrosion warranty. A six-year/90 000km service plan is included, with 15 000km service intervals.

New on the Tarmac: Meet the stylish new Ford Everest Sport

vuyi on March 18, 2021

Ford South Africa has bolstered its position in the expanding and highly competitive sport utility vehicle (SUV) market with the introduction of the new Everest Sport.

Based on the popular Everest XLT, the new Sport derivative includes a host of feature enhancements, both to the exterior and the cabin, giving the Everest a more dynamic and athletic look.

SPORTY DESIGN

The Everest Sport boasts a black mesh grille and unique Everest badge on the bonnet, along with black mirror caps and door handles, ebony roof rails, special Sport decals on the rear doors and striking 20-inch black alloy wheels. The Everest Sport also comes standard with LED headlamps and daytime running lights, cruise control and front and rear park sensors with a rear-view camera.

“From when it was first introduced locally in 2019, the latest-generation Everest has given Ford a strong foothold in the SUV segment of the local market” .
– Doreen Mashinini, General Manager for Marketing at Ford South Africa

COMPREHENSIVE SAFETY FEATURES

The extensive standard safety package comprises Electronic Stability Programme with traction control, Trailer Sway Control, Hill Launch Assist, Roll Over Mitigation, as well as seven airbags (front, side, curtain and driver’s knee airbag).

MODEL RANGE

Customers have the choice of 4×4 and 4×2 models, both of which are available with Ford’s frugal 2.0-litre Single Turbo diesel engine, delivering 132kW and 420Nm. The units are mated to Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission.

There are six body colours to choose from: Diffused Silver, Frozen White, Agate Black, Moondust Silver, Sea Grey and Copper Red.

“With the attractive new Everest Sport, we raise the stakes even further, catering to buyers who recognise and appreciate the qualities of the Everest but would like to set themselves further apart from the crowd through distinctive styling and feature enhancements”.

PRICING

2.0 Single Turbo 10AT 4×2 R662 800

2.0 Single Turbo 10AT 4×4 R704 400

All Everest models come standard with Ford Protect, comprising a four-year/120 000km comprehensive warranty, three-year/unlimited distance roadside assistance and five-year/unlimited km corrosion warranty. A six-year/90 000km service plan is included, with 15 000km service intervals.

2021 Women’s World Car of the Year Category Winners

vuyi on February 26, 2021

The jury of the Women’s World Car of the Year is pleased to announce the winners in each of nine categories.

The jury of the Women’s World Car of the Year is pleased to announce the winners in each of nine categories. These vehicles represent excellence in their segments based on safety, comfort, technology, and value for the money.

This is the eleventh year for WWCOTY, a team of fifty motoring journalists from 38 countries spanning five continents. It is the only jury in the automotive world composed exclusively of women. South Africa is represented by motoring journalist Charleen Clarke.

This year’s new voting methodology started with choosing the three best models in each category before narrowing those picks down to the individual winners. Eligible vehicles were launched between January and December 2020. As in previous years, votes were certified by the independent auditor Grant Thornton New Zealand.

This year, voting was more complicated due to the pandemic, which limited each juror’s ability to drive. Despite the challenges, jurors made an extra effort to get behind the wheel of these vehicles to evaluate them in time for voting.

One more round of voting remains. Jurors will now choose the Best Car of the Year from among the nine category winners. The results will be announced on March 8, International Women’s Day.

BEST URBAN CAR	BEST FAMILY CAR	BEST LUXURY CAR
Peugeot 208	Skoda Octavia	Lexus LC500 Cabrio

Best Luxury Car Lexus LC500
Best Family Car Skoda Octavia
Best Urban Car Peugeot 208

BEST SPORT CAR	BEST URBAN SUV	BEST MEDIUM SUV
Ferrari F8 Spider	Peugeot 2008	Land Rover Defender

Best Performance Car Ferrari F8 Spider
Best Urban SUV Peugeot 2008
Best Medium SUV Land Rover Defender 110

BEST LARGE SUV	BEST 4X4 & PICK UP	BEST EV
Kia Sorento	Ford F-150	Honda e

Best Large SUV Kia Sorento
Best 4X4 Pick-up F-150
BEST EV Honda e

The objective of the awards is to choose the best cars of the year. These are not ‘women’s cars’ because there is no such thing. Instead, cars are chosen based on the principles that guide all consumers including safety, quality, price, design, driving dynamics, and environmental impact.