Here's a real kicker

Ford is making loading packages and gear a little bit easier thanks to a hands-free liftgate that will be available on the all-new Ford Escape, debuting at the Los Angeles Auto Show later this month. A simple kicking motion under the rear bumper activates the system and raises the liftgate – no more fumbling around for key fobs or setting down packages first. Another kick closes the hatch. The new Escape is the first SUV to employ this gesture-based technology, similar to that found in video games.

Angie Kozleski  |  akozlesk@ford.com  |  313.323.1984

Ford at SEMA 2011

From mild to wild and from old to new, this year's Ford display at SEMA has something for everyone, with a stunning array of show vehicles from Fiesta to Super Duty. More details about Ford's global performance strategy are being revealed in Las Vegas, and the covers are coming off an all-new 363-cid Ford Racing stroker engine. The company is also introducing the latest Ford licensed restoration part sure to delight fans of the classic 1964-66 Mustang. As an added attraction, iconic Ford race cars past and present share the stage in a special salute to 110 Years of Ford Racing. In conjunction with the show, the launch of a brand-new website with hundreds of goods available should have fans of the Blue Oval revving their engines as the products take personalization of man caves and other spaces to a whole new level.

Richard Truett  |  rtruett1@ford.com  |  313.323.7045

New MyKey feature allows parents to help kids avoid distracted driving

Parents have enough to worry about when their kids take to the road, so Ford is adding a feature to its MyKey® technology to block incoming phone calls and deter text messages when teens are behind the wheel. When hooked up to SYNC®, the Do Not Disturb feature diverts calls into voicemail and saves text messages on the device for viewing later. Do Not Disturb, available on all 2011 vehicles with SYNC with MyFord Touch®, will now be available as a feature parents can control through MyKey beginning with Explorer in early 2012.

Wes Sherwood  |  wsherwoo@ford.com  |  313.390.5660

Lane Keeping and driver-aid technology help keep drivers alert

Ford is introducing an innovative Lane Keeping System with three unique features designed to help drivers stay in control behind the wheel, including a Driver Alert System that can notify drivers if it detects signs of drowsiness. In this case, a coffee cup light will appear on the dashboard instrument cluster to suggest the driver take a break. Lane Keeping Alert warns the driver by vibrating the steering wheel and sounding a chime, while Lane Keeping Aid warns the driver by applying torque at the steering wheel to direct the vehicle back into the lane.

Wes Sherwood  |  wsherwoo@ford.com  |  313.390.5660