VIDEO: Ford Fusion Accident Leads to an Epic Landing

Now here's a scene you don't see every day. In fact, even if you tried to do it on purpose, we seriously doubt that you'd manage to pull it off no matter how hard and how many times you tried. The truly epic landing and vertical rest of this silver colored Ford Fusion (or at least it looks like a Ford') in the snowbank is the result of a multiple vehicle accident that took place on I-93 South bound just before Exit 3 in Windam in New Hampshire on Tuesday. Video follows after the break.

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NHTSA Probes 2010 Ford Fusion Over Wheel Stud Fractures

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration [NHTSA] today announced that it has opened a preliminary investigation to assess a possible safety concern on certain 2010 Ford Fusion models, following four complaints that allege wheel stud fractures.

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America's Top 10 Selling Vehicles in 2010

The U.S. auto sales numbers for 2010 are out and once again, Ford's F-Series pickup truck has been crowned the best-selling vehicle of the year, a title which it has held for 34 years in a row. According to Autodata Corp., the Dearborn-based brand moved 528,349 units of its F-150 light-duty and F-250, F-350 and F-450 heavy-duty trucks in 2010, recording an impressive increase of 27,7 per cent over 2009.

The Chevrolet Silverado took second place with 370,135 units, or some 158,000 less than the F-Series. Sales of GM's pickup truck were up 16,9 per cent from the previous year.

Despite Toyota's recall debacle, the Camry finished third overall earning the title of the best-selling passenger car in the States with 327,804 units, posting an 8.1 per cent drop from 2009. The Honda Accord and Toyota Corolla followed in fourth and fifth positions respectively.

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VIDEO: Chrysler Promo Compares New 200 with Chevy Malibu and Ford Fusion

In what may be a sign of the times, the Chrysler Group is using bloggers, and members of social media sites and forums to promote its newest models on film. Here we see the company's latest promotional clip showing off the restyled and upgraded Sebring sedan, which as most of you know, has been renamed to 200.

The video hosts a number of people from various websites as well as one of its own marketers, and compares the mid-size sedan with Chevrolet's soon-to-be-replaced Malibu (see the official drawings here) and the Ford Fusion. Being a Chrysler made / edited promotional video, we'd take everything said with plenty grains of salt. Follow the break to watch the short clip.

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Customized 2011 Explorers and other Ford Models Teased Ahead of SEMA Show

FoMoCo is really gearing up for this year's edition of the Las Vegas SEMA Show in the beginning of November where it will display more customized models that we can keep track of. Aside from the Fiesta cars we told you about in a previous article, the Dearborn automaker has also joined forces with several other tuners to create customized versions of the all-new 2011 Explorer, Taurus SHO, Edge and Fusion Sport, as well as the all-new Lincoln MKX. Follow the jump to check out pictures and details on all of Ford's aftermarket-prepped models.

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2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid EPA Rated at 41mpg City and 36mpg Highway, Beats Lexus' HS 250h

The updated 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid sedan has received an EPA-certified 41 mpg rating in city driving and 36 mpg on the highway making it, according to FoMoCo, the most fuel efficient "luxury sedan" in the U.S, topping the Lexus HS 250h that returns 35mpg in the city and 34mpg on the highway.

Not surprisingly, the MKZ Hybrid's fuel economy figures are identical to its sister-model, the Ford Fusion Hybrid, which we assume is "America's most fuel-efficient mainstream sedan"[...].

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Ring a Bell? Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan Probed for Floor Mats After Complaints About Sticky Accelerators...

Remember Toyota's recall-woes over specific floor mats that could slip forward and snag the gas pedal? Well, we could be heading for a second round of recalls on the same issue but for a different automaker.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened a formal investigation into the 2010MY Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan models to examine allegations about pedals becoming trapped in the depressed position by unsecured floor mats.

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Ford to Provide NYPD with Fusion / Escape Hybrid Patrol Cars

Not to be left behind in the quest to clean up our planet, the NYPD announced that it will be adding 200 hybrid vehicles to its fleet in the form of Ford Fusion and Escape Hybrids.

The announcement comes after officers across the five boroughs began testing copped-out Nissan Altima hybrids this time last year.

NYPD spokesman John McCarthy explains, "These [Altimas] were the first hybrids outfitted with a police package being used for patrol. We wanted to see how they held up after being subjected to use on patrol. After a year of use, the feedback has been positive."

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SEMA Preview: 2010 Ford Taurus and Fusion Tuning Concepts

There will be no shortage of modified Ford vehicles at the 2009 SEMA Show in Las Vegas next week as the American automaker has planned more premieres than we can list on one post without 'scrolling' you to death. We've already told you about the 2010 Mustangs, Lincolns and F-150s concept / tuned models, now it's time to brief you on the modified 2010 Taurus and Fusion sedans. Hit the break to check out the image gallery with separate descriptions for each model.

-From Ford Press Release-

2010 Ford Taurus by Tommy Z Design

The Ford Taurus lends itself quite easily to the Superlux Youthful Styling and yet it remains sophisticated. Tommy Z embellished this great vehicle with his own classic VIP luxury style and components.

2010 Ford Taurus SHO by Mobsteel

The Ford Taurus SHO and Mobsteel are both committed to being anything but ordinary. So it's no surprise that the Taurus SHO by Mobsteel is one extraordinary vehicle. The trademark black-on-black Mobsteel paint job, custom fascias, and a host of trim touches and details give this 2010 Taurus SHO a tough menacing look, whether coming or going. And that's just the beginning, as this SHO has the goods both inside and out.

The bad boy rides on massive 22-inch Mobsteel forged two-piece wheels and super-low-profile Pirelli PZero Nero tires. A completely customized chassis with Air Runner front struts and Mobsteel adjustable rear air ride provide attitude to the max. The Magnaflow Performance cat-back exhaust and JL Audio equipment make this Taurus SHO sound as tough as it looks.

2010 Ford Taurus "Best of SHO" by MRT-Direct

MRT-Direct gives its signature classy touches to this Taurus SHO by adding subtle ground effect treatment, and a black cherry roof and custom vented hood. Increased performance is achieved through turbo system efficiencies, an exhaust upgrade, and wheel, tire and suspension modifications. The cabin is designed to be sporty and comfortable, while a Kicker sound system delivers the final beat.

2010 Ford Fusion Sport by Aaron Vaccar Signature Series

Young custom car designer Aaron Vaccar, most noted for his work with modern and sport compact vehicles, has taken his knowledge of next-generation styling and applied it to the new Ford Fusion Sport. Speed, style and sound – quite simply, this Fusion reveals that such a balance does exist in a sport-tuned street car. Upgraded with the thrills of a turbocharged motor, this Fusion now packs even more power to back up its stunning looks.

Noting that function needs to meet form, the entire audio and trunk enclosures have been designed to seamlessly integrate into the vehicle's styling and practicality. Tastefully mix the right combination of modifications, a bit of unique style combined with an already impressive platform, and what you get is this Aaron Vaccar Signature Series Fusion Sport.

2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid by M&J Enterprises

This Ford Fusion Hybrid by M&J Enterprises showcases a variety of eco-friendly accessories and aerodynamic parts. These range from air splitters to heat-reflective paint, window film and a vehicle data display. All items are either lighter in weight than the factory items, increase fuel economy or eliminate petroleum-based products.

The data display helps increase the consumer's environmental awareness. The whole package delivers a desirable, eco-friendly Ford Fusion aimed at consumers who like to customize their vehicles and are concerned with environmental issues.

2010 Ford Fusion "T4" by MRT

This custom version of the fun, sporty, fuel-efficient Ford Fusion successfully combines the best of all worlds. MRT started with clever but subtle appearance changes to the exterior trim and paint. Next, they brought the same sport feel and style to the interior with revised seating and interior trim accents. The fun-to-drive factor is kicked up a notch with a single intercooled turbocharger and Street Performance coil-over suspension.

To unleash the full potential of the awesome turbocharged powerplant, MRT skillfully exhaust-balanced the system with a high-performance stainless-steel Max-Flow h-pipe and back half exhaust system using the finest CNC Mandrel bend tube and high-flow components.

The result is a system that delivers enhanced power and truly satisfying performance-car sound. Twenty-inch wheels and tires add a final touch to set off the look and give this Fusion an even smarter, sportier stance. On the inside, a kickin' audio system from Kicker provides the perfect balance of amped-up entertainment.

Ford's Special Edition Fusion Black Magic: Limited to 600 Examples

For those living in the States, it's clear that Ford's European Fusion has nothing in common with the US market mid-size sedan other than that they share the same name. For those residing across the pond, it's also obvious that no type of magic can hide the fact that time has taken its toll on the (previous-generation) Fiesta-based small crossover and that Ford should hurry in its replacement. Even so, FoMoCo believes that it can attract buyers with the presentation of the special edition 'Black Magic' that will be produced in a limited run of 600 units.

As with the Black Magic Focus and C-Max, the special Fusion is offered only in a Panther Black Metallic exterior color. The package includes a set of 16-inch alloy wheels finished in black and shod in 195/55 R 16 tires, tinted side and rear windows, all-around protective plastic moldings and a discreet roof spoiler.

The interior is swathed in a combination of black leather and alcantara complimented by decorative matte silver trim and specific floor mats with silver lining. The Black Magic Fusion also an upgraded audio system with controls integrated on the steering wheel stalks, central locking with remote control and air conditioning.

The special edition Fusion will be offered in Germany with a choice of two Duratec engines, a 1.25-liter with 75HP and a 1.4-liter that makes 80HP with prices set at €17,090 and €17,575 respectively.

Ford Issues Warning on Phishing Scam Claiming 2010 Fusion Hybrid is up for Sale at $15,000

It seems that scammers are targeting FoMoCo once again as the American automaker issued a statement concerning a 'phishing' email claiming that Ford is offering 2010 Fusion Hybrids for $15,000 a piece as part of a special program. "The email sender does not represent Ford and no such program exists. We recommend people receiving the email delete it without opening the attachment," said Ford in an official statement. For the record, the base sticker price for the new Fusion Hybrid is $27,270.

Ford Fusion vs Herd of Bison: Fusion Wins, American Buffaloes Die, Ford Celebrates

This is the kind of tale you expect to read on a random forum and not on the official media site of Ford, but apparently times are changing and automakers are leaving no stone unturned in order to create some buzz around their products. Ford released this photo along with the story the owner of the 2007 Fusion sedan, Maureen Edgerton, 51, from Montana, who had an unfortunate encounter with a heard of bison near Yellowstone Park as she was driving home on April 11, 2009.

According to Ford, the 55-mile-per-hour (about 90km/h) impact killed several of the migrating "American buffalo" on the snowbound highway but Edgerton managed to leave the scene with only minor scrapes and bruises, all thanks of course, to the "tough 2007 Fusion", as FoMoCo proudly claims.

"While Ford Motor Company does not have specific requirements to protect customers in collisions with bison or other animals (so you don't say...), all of the company's vehicles are designed and tested to meet rigorous crash safety requirements," said Ford in a statement released to the press. "These requirements help protect occupants in all sorts of collisions, even with bison, which can grow to more than 6 feet tall, 11 feet long and more than 2,200 pounds."

And if you're curious to find out what Edgerton had to say about the incident, here's what she stated: "The crash was like a war scene. By the time it was over the hood was smashed in, the mirrors were ripped from the doors and the windshield was shattered, but the interior of the car wasn't affected whatsoever. And the car was still running and not leaking fluid. Not even the tires were deflated. Everyone who came to the scene asked 'what kind of car is this?' because they couldn't believe it was possible to walk away from such a crash."

Unfortunately, neither Ford nor Carscoop managed to contact any of the surviving the members of the family of the American Buffaloes that were involved in the accident.

2010 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan Hybrids Qualify for $3,400 Tax Credit

FoMoCo has announced that the new mild-hybrid versions of the 2010 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan qualify for a $3,400 tax credit from the federal government. The American automaker claims that this is the highest credit amount ever offered for hybrids purchased or placed in service after December 31, 2005. Ford's mid-size hybrid sedans are rated at 41 mpg n the city and 36 mpg on the highway, topping the Toyota Camry Hybrid by 8 mpg and 2 mpg respectively.

2010 Ford Fusion Facelift Gets Chrome Monobrow, New Engines and a Hybrid Version

Ford has issued the first official picture of the 2010 Fusion that will be revealed along with its revised Lincoln MKZ and Mercury Milan siblings at next month's LA Auto Show. The facelifted Fusion profits - or the opposite, we'll leave that for you to decide, from a fully redesigned front end that features something that was designed to look like a car but ended up resembling a gigantic chrome monobrow. The mid-size sedan also gets a new hood design and a restyled front bumper. Ford is still keeping the rest of the photos under a cloth of secrecy, so we'll have to see if there are any other styling changes. -Continued

The 2010 model year Fusion (as well as the Milan) gains from a new engine lineup that includes Ford's brand-new Duratec 2.5-liter 4-cylinder unit that delivers an output of 175HP and 172 lb.-ft. of torque, 14HP more and 16 more lb.-ft. of torque than the preceding year's 2.3-liter unit. The 3.0-liter V6 engine has been reworked producing 19HP more and 23 more lb.-ft. of torque than before for a total of 240HP and 228 lb.-ft. of torque while for 2010, there's also a new 263HP 3.5-liter V6 engine.

What's even more important is that all three engine are paired with Ford's new six-speed automatic transmission. While Ford has yet to release any specific figures, the company supports that paired with the 6-speed auto, the 2.5-liter Fusion delivers a 10 percent improvement in fuel efficiency while the V6 configurations gain a 4- to 6-percent efficiency.

In 2009 Ford will also introduce the Fusion and Milan Hybrids equipped with a next-generation hybrid propulsion system. Te hybrid sedans can operate up to 47 mph in pure electric mode while Ford claims that the city driving range on a single city tank of gas is expected to be more than 700 miles. Furthermore, the company said that both the Milan and Fusion hyrbids are expected to achieve class-leading fuel economy, besting the Toyota Camry hybrid by at least 5 mpg.

SEMA: Ford Mustang & Fusion, Lincoln MKZ

Along with the nine supped up 2008 Focus models that we showed you last night (click here), Ford will also present four more proposals at this month’s SEMA show: two personalized editions of the Mustang and one for each of the Fusion and Lincoln MKZ models. You can check out all the details right after the jump. -Continued

2007 Lincoln MKZ by H&R Special Springs, LP

Combine American luxury with European style and handling and you get the Lincoln MKZ by H&R Special Springs. The H&R suspension mods lower the Lincoln nearly three inches over 20-inch Pirelli high-performance tires and O.Z. Botticelli wheels that showcase the Brembo calipers. The 3D Carbon front and rear spoilers are accented with custom fender grilles and bright red MKZ badges. LED under lighting adds to the mood. A full custom interior is accented in Ebony Night microsuede and features a back seat refrigerator and massive Pioneer multimedia system.

Fusion Performance GAS

This 2007 Ford Fusion is ready for the racetrack courtesy of Galpin Auto Sports. The turbocharged V-6 pump out 350 horsepower driving all four wheels. Gears are selected via a six-speed paddle-shift transmission. An APR Performance carbon front splitter and rear wing and 3D Carbon body kit provide the necessary aerodynamics while the MRT lightweight functional ram-air hood feeds the motor. A performance suspension keeps the 19-inch wheels and Nitto Invo tires glued to the road. Inside, a Katzkin leather interior, features a six-point roll cage, leather and suede steering wheel and GAS custom audio system.

Mustang Wild Pony Project

Mustang is all about making it your own, and Ford’s Vehicle Personalization Group delivers the next level. The Project Pony wears Black Sparkle Paint, 20-inch chrome wheels and bold graphics including the new VP brand windshield visor decal. Ford racing adds a supercharger and cold-air induction system for added power and matching Sparkle Black valve covers for added pizzazz. The two-tone black and white leather interior features headrest DVDs and illuminated interior lighting and sill plates.

2007 Ford Mustang by Santini-USA

This racehorse is all show and all go. Prostang is the result of the collaborative efforts of master auto painter Santini-USA, the master interior craftsmanship of Steve Stanford Design and Mustang performance expertise of Roush Performance. The 2007 Mustang pro-street coupe shines in brilliant red on white Alsa exotic paint with blue-and-yellow accent stripes. The 4.6-liter V-8 wears a polished supercharger and intercooler and Bassani custom exhaust. Inside, leather seats tuck between a full roll cage.

Ford Fusion Hydrogen 999 Will Attempt To Break World Land Speed Record

This August FoMoCo will take its Ford Fusion Hydrogen 999 fuel cell car to the Bonneville Salt Flats in an attempt to set the world land speed record for a production-based hydrogen fuel cell powered vehicle. The Ford Fusion Hydrogen 999 was designed by Ford engineers and built by Roush while Ohio State students provided the design of the 770 Hp strong electric motor with Ballard supplying the hydrogen fuel cells. Ford retiree Rick Byrnes, a veteran Bonneville racer, will pilot the Ford Fusion Hydrogen 999 car on its record attempt.

The Ford Fusion Hydrogen 999 is one of two vehicles Ford's fuel cell research team is helping prepare to set world land speed records as the researchers also are working with Ohio State University student engineers on the Buckeye Bullet 2, a fuel cell-powered racer that will compete for a similar world record in the unlimited class category. The land speed record attempt will take place during Bonneville Speed Week from Aug. 10-17. -Full press release after the jump

FORD FUSION HYDROGEN 999 RACER TO ATTEMPT SPEED RECORD FOR FUEL CELL-POWERED VEHICLE

• Ford to attempt land speed record for production-based fuel cell powered vehicle at Bonneville with the Ford Fusion Hydrogen 999.
• Ford, Ohio State University, Ballard and Roush are collaborating to build and engineer the hydrogen fuel cell electric powertrains.
• Ohio State University will attempt to set the land speed record for unlimited class fuel cell powered vehicle with the Buckeye Bullet 2.

DEARBORN, Mich., July 10 – Ford Motor Company will take its 10 years of hydrogen research expertise to the Bonneville Salt Flats in August in an attempt to set the world land speed record in a hydrogen fuel cell powered Ford Fusion.

The Ford Fusion Hydrogen 999 fuel cell car – a collaboratively engineered racer with Ballard, Roush and Ohio State University – is one of two vehicles Ford’s fuel cell research team is helping prepare to set world land speed records. Ford researchers also are working with Ohio State University student engineers on its Buckeye Bullet 2, a fuel cell-powered racer that will compete for a similar world record in the unlimited class category.

“Racing is part of Ford Motor Company’s DNA so it seemed only natural for us to build a fuel cell race car that runs on hydrogen, a fuel that could someday play a key role in meeting the energy needs of the transportation sector,” said Gerhard Schmidt, vice president, Research & Advanced Engineering for Ford Motor Company. “Our goal in attempting this record is to further expand our technological horizons with fuel cell powered vehicles. The collaboration with Ohio State University also affords us an opportunity to work closely with a prestigious university, which provides out-of-the-box thinking from student engineers and helps us recruit talented young people to work at Ford Motor Company.”

The land speed record attempt will take place during Bonneville Speed Week from Aug. 10-17. The attempt will be sanctioned by the Southern California Timing Association®.

The Ford Fusion Hydrogen 999 land speed record vehicle was designed by Ford engineers and fabricated and built by Roush in Allen Park, Michigan. Ohio State students are providing the design of the 770 hp electric motor, while Ballard is supplying the hydrogen fuel cells. Ford retiree Rick Byrnes, a veteran Bonneville racer, will pilot the Ford Fusion Hydrogen 999 car on its record attempt.

Ohio State students have designed their unlimited class vehicle, dubbed Buckeye Bullet 2, from the ground up. Ballard donated the hydrogen fuel cells for Ohio State’s car, Roush its engineering services and Ford has provided overall project coordination and expertise in fuel cell drivetrains.

In 2004, Ohio State students set the unlimited land speed record for an electric vehicle by running 315 mph in the first Buckeye Bullet, dubbed BB1.

Hydrogen Part of a Broader Effort

Ford’s strategy for alternative fuels is built around multiple technologies, including hydrogen fuel cells. This flexible approach allows the company to meet goals for customer needs, environmental impact and shareholder interests. The strategy does not focus on one catch-all solution but includes a flexible array of options, including hybrids, E85 ethanol, clean diesels, bio-diesels, advanced engine and transmission technologies and hydrogen fuel cells.

The company already has a fleet of 30 hydrogen powered Focus fuel cell vehicles on the road as part of a worldwide, seven-city program to conduct real world testing of fuel cell technology. The 30-car fleet has accumulated more than 540,000 miles since its inception in 2005.

Ford also is conducting tests with the world’s first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, the Ford Edge with HySeries Drive. The Ford Edge with HySeries Drive uses a series electric drivetrain with an onboard hydrogen fuel cell generator to give the vehicle a range of 225 miles with zero emissions.

Currently, Ford offers gasoline-electric hybrids including the Escape Hybrid and Mercury Mariner Hybrid. The company will also offer hybrid versions of the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan in 2008.