Ford to Debut Solar Hybrid Concept Car at International CES

BRIGHTON, Mich - The International CES will be a huge event for Ford Motor Company. Between the all-new Ford Mustang hype and new technology announcements, Ford will definitely be stealing some spot light. An exciting portion of the event for the Ford company will be the debut of the solar hybrid concept car at the International CES. 

Now, what exactly is this solar hybrid concept car? Well, it is an environmentally-friendly, solar-powered concept car that offers the very same performance qualities as a plug-in hybrid. The unique quality with this hybrid car; there is no need for a plug. The C-MAX Solar Energi Concept car utilizes a gasoline engine combined with a gizmo that serves as a magnifying glass to concentrate the sun's rays on the vehicle's roof-mounted solar panels. One of the best parts, the consumer could expect city-highway mileage to be 100 miles per gallon! 

Ford says that using solar power rather than an electric plug, allows a typical owner to reduce their annual greenhouse gas emissions by four metric tons. Less pollution of the environment and better gas mileage for us? Sign us up! 

Hybrids are becoming more and more attractive to the consumer; Ford sold about 85,000 hybrid or electric vehicles in 2013 and 6,300 of those units were the C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid. The solar concept was developed by a group of researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology. It uses Fresnel lens, which concentrates light but can be made thinner than a conventional lens. A full day of sunshine is equivalent to a four-hour battery charge.

With a full charge, the hybrid should have a range of 620 miles and will still include a plug-in port for standard electric charging. After the debut of the solar hybrid concept car at the International CES, Ford will test the vehicle with institute researchers and determine if it is feasible for mass production. 

We can't wait to see what this year has in store for Ford Motor Company. Brighton Ford is your local dealership with the widest inventory of new, used, and pre-owned Ford vehicles. Visit us today to find the perfect vehicle to start off the new year! 

Brighton Ford is located at 8240 Grand River Ave. just north of I-96 in Brighton. We are a family owned and operated business that strives for customer satisfaction. For more information on Brighton Ford visit BrightonFord.com or give us a call at (800) 836-8206.

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Ten of the Worst Things You Could Do to Your Car

BRIGHTON, Mich - We know that feeling all too well. You're driving on the road, you see one of the tiny lights on your dash light up or you hear that not-so-comforting noise that you know just isn't right. That feeling of inconvenience and another thing to add on the do to list. We know car maintenance isn't usually one of your favorite things, but ignoring even the slightest issue with your vehicle can cost you much more than time in the long run. Avoid doing ten of the worst things you could do to your car to save yourself time, money, and stress in the long run!

1. Continuously postponing scheduled or recommended vehicle maintenance.  

2. Ignore the check engine light. Avoiding this or any other of the vehicle warning lights can lead to a variety of issues for your vehicle.

3. Not changing your oil on time, or at all. Disregarding oil changes is the single more damaging vehicle maintenance item that drivers neglect.

4. Failing to check tire pressure, more importantly as the temperatures begin to change.

5. Overlooking transmission, brake, coolant, or other fluid services.

6. Driving your vehicle when it overheats.

7. Not changing air or fuel filters.

8. Allowing an unqualified person or service center perform services on your vehicle.

9. Saving money with aftermarket parts rather than OEM quality parts.

10. Attempting to service your vehicle on your own, instead of coming to the Brighton Ford Quick Lane, when you are unsure about what you are doing.  

Your owner's manual with contain all of the information you need in order to properly maintain your vehicle. Avoid car damages and issues now by remembering the ten of the worst things you could do to your car. Brighton Ford is always here to help you with any of your vehicle needs. We offer a variety of vehicle services, including Oil Changes, tire rotations, and so much more.

Brighton Ford is located at 8240 Grand River Ave. just north of I-96 in Brighton. We are a family owned and operated business that strives for customer satisfaction. For more information on Brighton Ford visit BrightonFord.com or give us a call at (800) 836-8206.

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How the All-New Ford Mustang Remained a Secret From Paparazzi

BRIGHTON, Mich - There was much anticipation in the months leading up to the release of the all-new Ford Mustang. Ford designers and engineers wanted to be discreet, proposing the question how will the all-new Ford Mustang remain a secret from paparazzi? A special design team was responsible for the camouflaging to keep the vehicle's shape under wraps.

Debating the exact shape of the Mustang was one of the most talked about aspects by fans on the Internet. Fueling their assumptions, the Mustang development team logged tens of thousands of test miles on public roads during the summer and fall months without revealing the vehicle's shape. How to be able to do this, was the exact question the camouflage team from Ford design and engineering needed to answer.

Professional photographers are all aware of where the cars are built and tested. If that wasn't difficult enough, smartphones with cameras and Internet connections make it almost impossible to avoid the public eye. Before any prototype was allowed to leave the plant, a camouflage package was developed and had to be approved by the design, engineering, and test track safety departments. The goal was even a great photograph would not give away the design details of the Mustang.

The design team begins the camouflage process, then it is refined through engineering and safety. The first recommendation for camo for the Mustang was minimal in an effort to keep weight and aerodynamic effects to a minimum. The first and second camp packages showed too much of the profile and roofline. The third and final package made the Mustang appear more like a notchback and smaller than it actually was. Plastic and foam were strategically placed beneath the vinyl to hide lines of the car. When designing the camo, safety was just as important as security when testing prototypes. It was made sure that the car lights and signals were able to shine through the vinyl.

Although photos were still snagged, the all-new Ford Mustang remained a secret from paparazzi. The world has now been exposed to this beautiful Mustang and engineers are free to complete final testing and development camo-free! 

Get your hands on your very on Ford vehicle at your local Southfield Area Ford Dealership. Brighton Ford is proud to serve those in Southfield and surrounding areas with the best selection of new, used, and pre-owned Ford vehicles! Visit us today and let us help you find the Ford you have been searching for. 

Brighton Ford is located at 8240 Grand River Ave. just north of I-96 in Brighton. We are a family owned and operated business that strives for customer satisfaction. For more information on Brighton Ford visit BrightonFord.com or give us a call at (800) 836-8206.

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Ford's Virtual Reality Lab Improves Global Vehicle Quality

BRIGHTON, Mich - Virtual reality isn't just for video games. Ford Motor Company is once again taking it to the next level with their virtual reality lab to improve global vehicle quality. Ford is the very first automaker to use a ultrahigh-definition, virtual reality lab that allows designers and engineers to work simultaneously on vehicles in real time.

Virtual reality can actually be more effective than real-world design development. In 2013 alone, Ford designers and engineers have tested more than 135,000 details on 193 virtual vehicle prototypes. Ford is globally improving vehicle quality and craftsmanship. Engineers and designers can experience vehicles just as a customer would in the showroom with this virtual technology. Using immersive virtual space, they can create visuals almost exactly like a real car, which in return improves vehicle quality and craftsmanship.

With a more lively, precision-oriented work environment, the customer is already seeing improvements, such as certain features of the new Ford Fusion and all-new Ford Mustang. In the Fusion, engineers were able to determine side-view mirror placement for optimal visibility without affecting the design of the vehicle. The position of the side mirror went through several virtual iterations before the exact spot was determined. This technology also allowed engineers to change the fit and finish of the all-new Mustang's dashboard. The engineers were able to determine when how to make the windshield wipers hidden when they are at rest.

Ford is the first automaker to establish this technology globally. Ford's virtual reality lab has limitless ways of improving global vehicle quality. It enables engineers and designers to see inside and through a vehicle structure with it's "x-ray vision" like features as well as has a power-wall display that allows 3D models of vehicles to be reviewed in real time. Ford continues to be an industry leader in state-of-the-art technology and will continue to improve vehicle visibility, quality, and comfort for customers.

At Brighton Ford, we too care about the visibility, quality, and comfort our customers are getting with their vehicle. Stop by the dealership today to see the great variety of Used Cars we have available. We are proud to provide those in Ann Arbor and surrounding areas with the best customer and vehicle service. Visit Brighton Ford today and find the Ford of your dreams!

Brighton Ford is located at 8240 Grand River Ave. just north of I-96 in Brighton. We are a family owned and operated business that strives for customer satisfaction. For more information on Brighton Ford visit BrightonFord.com or give us a call at (800) 836-8206.

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Ford EcoBoost® Police Interceptor Dominates Law Enforcement Vehicle Competitors

BRIGHTON, Mich - Ford EcoBoost® Police Interceptor dominates the law enforcement vehicle competition for the third year in a row. The Los Angeles Sheriff Department tested the Ford EcoBoost® Interceptor sedan and utility vehicles at the Fontana raceway in California. Both were the fastest in the 0-100 mph acceleration testing and average lap times.

Ford not only remains faster than competitors, but agencies like the Los Angeles Sheriff Department see the benefits of all-wheel drive and EcoBoost. In chase related situations, the ability to put down 365 horsepower is best done by Ford's intelligent all-wheel-drive system. The LASD testing showed that this system improves handling and traction in all driving conditions, including dry-pavement surfaces.

Ford is leading two huge shifts in police vehicle trends with the performance of the Police Interceptor sedan and utility vehicles. One, being the overall preference by police agencies for Ford's intelligent all-wheel drive system and the other being a growing preference for the spacious utility vehicle. Since the launch, sedan sales are up 34 percent in the 2013 calendar year and utility sales are up 142 percent.

The LASD tests were completed while each utility vehicle carried 400 pounds of cargo to simulate real-world conditions. The all-wheel-drive 3.5-liter EcoBoost utility turned a 0-60 mph time of 6.5 seconds and 0-100 mph time of 18.3 seconds. The Chevrolet Tahoe with a 5.3-liter V8 only turned a 8.5-second 0-60 mph and a 0-100 mph time of 26.4 seconds. Both the Police Interceptor sedan and utility proved to be the fastest in a straight line as well as in average lap times. The EcoBoost sedan was at 81.97 seconds and was 0.9 second faster per average lap than the all-wheel-drive Doge Charger with Hemi V8. The utility (85.58 seconds) is 6.1 seconds faster per average lap than the Chevrolet Tahoe.

The Ford Police Interceptor vehicles are dominating other law enforcement competitors and gaining much attention from law enforcement agencies nationwide. Switching from V8-equipped vehicles to Ford EcoBoost V6 vehicles meets agencies need for speed while simultaneously saving money. To learn more about the Ford Police Interceptor, click here.

Brighton Ford has a wide variety of Certified Pre-Owned Cars for Sale at our dealership. We are more than happy to assist those in Southfield and surrounding areas in finding the perfect Ford vehicle. Stop by Brighton Ford and let us find you the Ford that will meet all of your driving needs!

Brighton Ford is located at 8240 Grand River Ave. just north of I-96 in Brighton. We are a family owned and operated business that strives for customer satisfaction. For more information on Brighton Ford visit BrightonFord.com or give us a call at (800) 836-8206.

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Ford Motor Company's Forecast for 2014

BRIGHTON, Mich - Ford Motor Company is more than ready for the new year! The company's president of the Americas, Joe Hinrichs, has announced a very positive Ford Motor Company forecast for year 2014. The plan is to hire 5,000 people in the United States including 3,300 white-collar staff, such as engineers as well as 6,000 people in Asia.

Since 2000, this will be the largest amount of people that Ford has hired in a single year. A fair amount of the new hires will work at the 2 newest plants that are set to open up in China. Ford says that 2014 will be the company's busiest production year in its history that spans more than a century! With 23 vehicles being introduced across the globe, 16 vehicles will go on sale int he United States including the Transit Connect van, a new Mustang sports car, and the Lincoln MKC small utility.

Along with the hiring of new employees, Ford Motor Company is working on innovation. With the unveiling of the automated-search vehicle, all eyes are on Ford to continue to make vehicles that are a notch above the rest. Ultimately, they want technology to help make the world a safer place while also sustaining the environment.

With Ford Motor Company's bright forecast for the year 2014, we can only expect to continue to see exceptional vehicles from Ford. The new year is just a few weeks away, what will be the first to happen as we ring in the first of the year? We will have to wait and see!

Start off your New Year with a new vehicle from Brighton Ford! We have a fantastic selection of new, used and pre-owned vehicles at our dealership. Do you love the Ford Edge or the Ford Explorer? Stop by today to see the great deals we have on these used vehicles. Brighton Ford is here to help you find the vehicle that meets all of your driving needs!

Brighton Ford is located at 8240 Grand River Ave. just north of I-96 in Brighton. We are a family owned and operated business that strives for customer satisfaction. For more information on Brighton Ford visit BrightonFord.com or give us a call at (800) 836-8206.

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Ford's Auto Start-Stop and Fuel Efficiency Plans for 2017

BRIGHTON, Mich - With the Auto Show quickly approaching, Ford announced on Thursday, December 12th their Auto Start-Stop and fuel efficiency plans for 2017. The Auto Start-Stop will be available on 70 percent of its North American vehicle lineup by the year 2017. Ford Motor Company is progressively making moves toward their overall plan for increasing fuel efficiency across its lineup.

Ford Auto Start-Stop is a relatively affordable technology that can provide a continuous way to improve fuel efficiency as much as 10 percent in city driving. As the top component of the company's Blueprint for Sustainability, the development of the Auto Start-Stop comes as the award-winning 1.0-liter EcoBoost® engine is ready to go on sale in the 2014 Ford Fiesta. With a 45 mpg EPA rating on the highway, the new Fiesta is the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid or diesel on the market. Dynamic cruise control is a new breakthrough technology that Ford is researching as well. It is said to predict road conditions to enhance fuel economy.  

The overall goal that Ford is looking to accomplish is to be part of the solution to environmental sustainability by providing fuel-saving technologies. Auto Start-Stop allows customers to use less fuel when it turns off the engine when the vehicle stops and advanced battery powers vehicle accessories and system in place of the engine. Once the brake pedal starts to be released, the engine restarts instantly.

Of course, actual fuel savings vary and are ultimately determined by driving patterns. Roughly 3.5 percent is the average improvement in fuel efficiency; however, those who drive in heavy traffic could see fuel efficiency improve by as much as 10 percent. By the end of the year, Ford expects to sell more than 500,000 vehicles equipped with the Auto Start-Stop technology globally. The 2014 Ford Fusion 1.5-liter EcoBoost is available in the United States.

As mentioned before, Ford is also researching dynamic cruise control. This minimizes fuel consumption while maximizing powertrain efficiencies through optimized torque control. Dynamic cruise control adjusts the driver-selected set speed in response to current and predicted road conditions. This is a cruise control technology that is research-based now, but the overall objective is to think fuel economy first.

Ford is quickly executing their Auto Start-Stop and fuel efficiency plans for year 2017. Brighton Ford is thrilled to aid in this progressive plan by offering our customers both the 2014 Ford Fiesta and Ford Fusion at the dealership. Stop by our dealership to find the perfect Ford car, truck, SUV, or crossover that meets all of your driving needs. Brighton Ford is proud to provide those in Ann Arbor and surrounding areas with all of their vehicle needs, including financing for an Auto Loan. Visit us at the dealership today where "Customers for Life" is our motto. We will find you the Ford of your dreams!

Brighton Ford is located at 8240 Grand River Ave. just north of I-96 in Brighton. We are a family owned and operated business that strives for customer satisfaction. For more information on Brighton Ford visit BrightonFord.com or give us a call at (800) 836-8206.

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4 Scrumptious Christmas Treat Recipes

 BRIGHTON, Mich - Can't decide what special Christmas dessert you should take to your cookie exchange, holiday party, or leave out for Santa Claus? Thanks again to our friends on Pinterest, we've found 4 scrumptious Christmas treat recipes to share with you! Each one is unique and will leave your taste buds extremely happy! To check out more holiday recipes, decoration ideas, or gift wrapping tips, visit our Pinterest page. Happy Baking!

                  Cherry Pomegranate Mini Pies                                       Christmas Cake Mix Cookies

         

Peanut Butter Toffee Bars

Candy Cane Brownie Lollipops

We hope you get to try and enjoy these scrumptious Christmas treat recipes. Santa will be coming soon, which one of these desserts do you think he would enjoy? We have some treats of our own waiting for you at Brighton Ford! Stop by our Used Car Dealership in Southfield for a great variety of used and pre-owned vehicles. We are happy to assist those in Southfield and surrounding areas with all of their vehicle needs, including Used Car Loans. Visit us at Brighton Ford, where customer service is our top priority!

Brighton Ford is located at 8240 Grand River Ave. just north of I-96 in Brighton. We are a family owned and operated business that strives for customer satisfaction. For more information on Brighton Ford visit BrightonFord.com or give us a call at (800) 836-8206.

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Brighton Ford Seeking Community Relations Manager

BRIGHTON, Mich - We are seeking a Community Relations Manager to work with us at Brighton Ford. This person will be an ambassador and assist in the development of this position to help others within the community. Do you know someone who would be the perfect match? See the job description and contact information below:

Ask yourself these questions:

• ·      Would you thrive with the freedom to make your own position?
• ·      Do you want a flexible schedule?
• ·      Are you willing to work longer hours a day here and there if needed?
• ·      Does it excite you to know the sky is the limit here?
• ·      Can you represent us proudly in the community?
• ·      Do you hate being micromanaged?

If your answer is YES to all these questions …. We want to talk to YOU!!!

We want a person who will be our AMBASSADOR to the community.  Someone who will connect our company’s vision and mission throughout Livingston County to our neighbors we proudly serve.  What does that mean?  We have no idea!! YOU TELL US!!  We want you to head a new position within our dealership to ensure that we are continuously doing everything we can to build and preserve our community.  Someone who can identify, prioritize, and facilitate all efforts needed not only from our Dealership but other local organizations as well. 

What qualifies a person to do this?  Here’s what we think:

• ·      Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Communication or relevant experience.
• ·      1 – 3 years of experience with sales and/or marketing.
• ·      Experience in coordinating fundraisers, events, or philanthropic programs.
• ·      Ability to work independently and be accountable for results.
• ·      Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively both written and verbally. 
• ·      Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• ·      Experience with Word, Excel, PowerPoint and other applications.
• ·      Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work with a variety of individuals.
• ·      Must have strong skills in multitasking and problem solving.
• ·      Clean, professional image, behavior and demeanor are expected at all times.
• ·      Must have valid driver’s license.
• ·      Must be able to have a flexible schedule to work extended hours for events or community programs as needed.

Unless you have a better idea – come tell us!

Requirements (so far)

• ·      Develop strategic plans to identify community engagement projects.
• ·      Further involve our current community engagement relationships and efforts.
• ·      Communicate with our Marketing team to promote, educate, and inform our community of the events and programs taking place.
• ·      Effectively manage volunteers for the events or programs.
• ·      Resolve any issues or problems that may arise.

Email resumes and inquiries to brightonfordmi@gmail.com

Do you think you are a good fit to be Brighton Ford's Community Relations Manager? Brighton Ford isn't only a great place to work, it is a fantastic place to find a new Ford vehicle! We are proud to provide those in Southfield and the surrounding areas with all of their vehicle needs, including Auto Loans. Stop by the dealership to find the Ford you have been searching for!

Brighton Ford is located at 8240 Grand River Ave. just north of I-96 in Brighton. We are a family owned and operated business that strives for customer satisfaction. For more information on Brighton Ford visit BrightonFord.com or give us a call at (800) 836-8206.

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Holiday Gift Wrapping Ideas

BRIGHTON, Mich- Christmas is slowly creeping up on us! There are only two short weeks until the big day. How is your gift wrapping coming along? If you are looking to spice up your presents this year, we have some great holiday gift wrapping ideas. It doesn't have to be that same old Christmas tree paper and a red bow. These wrapping tips are easy, unique, and well have you impressing all of your family and friends this holiday season. Thanks to Pinterest, we found some of our personal favorites to share with you. To see more wrapping ideas, holiday recipes, or decorating tips visit our Pinterest page!

1. Use a photo as a name tag.
This is a special way to tag each of your gifts. Include a favorite picture of you and the recipient or one of them on their own! It is both fun and a way to remember some good memories.

2. Newspaper Wrapping Paper

Recycle old newspapers, comics, or magazine pages as a wrapping paper! Easy, affordable, and fun!

3. Same wrapping paper, different decorations.

Instead of switching up wrapping paper for each person, use the same paper and decorate each present with different bows, tags, or stickers.  

 4. Brown Paper Wrapping

Brown paper is very easy, unique, and looks very clean! Stamping the names on each package adds the perfect final touch!

5. Wrapping for Food Gifts

With various holiday parties and cookie exchanges, it can get old taking the same baked good on that boring tin tray. Utilize the container that your treat is in, making for a simple and attractive presentation.

Swap out that old wrapping paper for these great holiday gift wrapping ideas. Again, you can see more ideas and inspiration on our Pinterest board. Is there something on your Christmas list that may not fit under the tree? Could it be a used or certified pre-owned Ford vehicle from Brighton Ford? Visit our Ann Arbor Used Car Dealership for a great variety of used and pre-owned vehicles. Brighton Ford is here to help those in Ann Arbor and surrounding areas with all of their vehicle needs including Used Car Loans. 

Brighton Ford is located at 8240 Grand River Ave. just north of I-96 in Brighton. We are a family owned and operated business that strives for customer satisfaction. For more information on Brighton Ford visit BrightonFord.com or give us a call at (800) 836-8206.

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