Auto News: Ford Performance Automobiles Taking The Roads By Storm

It’s no secret that there has been a huge transformation in Ford vehicles over the past decade or so, with an emphasis on technology, innovation and fuel efficiency. Performance is another part of that transformation that is moving to center stage. The facts tell the story: Ford is bringing more than 12 new performance vehicles from now through 2020!

That includes the all-new Ford GT shown for the first time at the 2015 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). The Ford Focus RS will be among these new models, and they will join the existing lineup of Fiesta ST, Focus ST, Shelby GT350R Mustang and F-150 Raptor.

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.”

Consider the ST line, where younger drivers are looking to the Focus ST and Fiesta ST for performance vehicles that meet their lifestyle. These rides are a real hit with Millennials, who are buying ST models at a rate that’s double than that of the rest of the Ford lineup.

“EcoBoost is a strong example of how we are migrating technology and engineering across our lineup, ensuring our vehicles are fun to drive,” 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.”

In addition to the ST line, the Ford F-150 Raptor has been climbing rocks as well as the sales charts since its debut in 2009. So much so, that Raptor production has increased from three-per-hour to five-per-hour to meet the growing demand.

Coming soon to the stable of Ford performance vehicles is the recently unveiled 2015 Shelby GT350 Mustang. This power-soaked car features a 500-horsepower naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V8. The Shelby GT350 also includes a new front end that utilizes Ford Racing innovations to improve down force in the car and cooling.

“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.”
Images: Ford
Credit: Cole Quinnell