Camelback Ford Lincoln Mercury hosts…2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid test drive and alternative fuel overview..

Two for the Road USA were guests at the Ford Fusion Hybrid event on April 20, 2009.

There was an Engineer, Doctor, Clean Air Specialist, Ford executive and dealer all speaking within their category of expertise with praises for Ford past, present and future.

Each professional had a few words about alternative fuels with the Ford Fusion in the spotlight. Over 100 people were in the audience and verbalized how good they felt about the direction of Ford Lincoln Mercury and then had the chance to test drive the new 2009 Ford Fusion Hybrid.

The Fusion and Milan deliver an amazing 41 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. The Fusion hybrid has a base price of $27,995 the well-equipped Milan Hybrid is priced at $31,300.

We understand that with the purchase of a new Fusion or Milan Hybrid by March 31, 2009 a buyer may qualify for a $3,400 federal tax credit on their 2009 Tax Return. This is a nice added incentive.

What’s new for 2010? Six speed transmission, 2.5 liter 1-4 engine, 3.0 liter , V-6 Durantec, Flex-Fuel engine, variety of 16 to l8 inch painted and aluminum wheels, easy fuel capless refueling, available reverse camera system, available 12-speaker Sony sound system, available voice-activated navigation system and SIRIUS, Travel Link, available SYNC with 911 assist and vehicle health report.

The interior has a more contemporary technical look with metallic finishes all the way through. The display and switches have fashionable Ice Blue Lighting which makes night driving, while checking gauges a breeze. The exterior of the Fusion is both sportier and more upscale. The new Aerodynamic enhancements and new underbody shields surely helped further boost Fusion’s fuel economy.

In talking with the crowed that generally feel in the over 40 range, we found that they indicated that the Fusion might be their next car. The other comment was what a great first car for their teens and young adults. The word out there is that the 20+ generation likes the Fusion as well. The SYNC availability is a must for the technically savvy drivers.

Bill and I will have a Ford Fusion Hybrid to test drive for a week in April so that can then give you a more detailed report at that time.

We want to thank Darrin Delfelder of Camelback Ford Lincoln Mercury for hosting this event and inviting the Phoenix Press Association.

Get Ready for Alternative Fuel Vehicles

Article By Cath and Bill
for ASA of AZ May Newsletter

Two for the Road USA was recently invited by Ford to check out the new Fusion Hybrid, and in listening to the presentation about where Ford is heading with regards to alternative fuel vehicles, we started thinking about the impact it would have on repair centers. Trying to keep up with the exponential changes in technology is challenging to begin with but here’s what’s coming down the pike as we speak with regards to drive train changes.

Most everyone is familiar with the hybrids on the road today from Toyota, Honda, Ford and GM but not many are aware that in 2009 Ford adds the Fusion and Milan hybrid iterations to the line up, Mercedes is planning to start selling an S-Class hybrid this year as BMW works on a 7-Series hybrid. Not to mention the rush to plug-in hybrids. And that’s just the beginning as electric vehicles will also be on the road in the next couple of years.

How will this impact you will depend on how ready you are for the renaissance. There’s no question that owners of these vehicles will be predisposed to taking their vehicles to the dealership after the base warranty expires because of the “technology” of hybrids. So, how do you let people know that they are not obliged to take the car to the dealership for regular maintenance and repairs like brakes, belts and hoses etc.?

First and foremost is making sure that the motoring public knows that you employ technicians today, not mechanics. Also, your customers know that your technicians are constantly being schooled on the new technologies in vehicles today? Do they know that you and your techs spend thousands of dollars on training and purchasing the technical tools necessary to maintain and repair the electronic components in vehicles today?

The landscape of automotive repair is rapidly changing and being in the forefront in your industry will guarantee sustainability. Our experience shows; that how you manage and market your business with regard to alternative fuel vehicles will determine how you will survive and thrive in this exciting new age of automotive repairs.

Bill and Cathy can be heard every Saturday from 6-8pm on KKNT 960AM and anytime on http://www.webtalkradio.us/ or visit the website at http://www.twofortheroadusa.com/.