Ford's Escape and Lincoln's MKC to have an extra week of build during the summer shutdown to meet demand.

• Ford is building its most popular SUV, the Ford Escape, an extra week at Louisville Assembly Plant this summer due to stronger demand
• Portions of seven North American Ford component plants will take a one-week shutdown, while all other North American Ford plants will take the traditional two-week summer shutdown
• Ford continues to match production with customer demand

Ford Escape and Lincoln MKC sales are off to their best start in company history during the first five months of the year, prompting the company to shorten the traditional two-week summer shutdown at Louisville Assembly Plant to build more than 8,500 additional vehicles there.

“The record sales for Ford Escape through May are being driven by strong demand from our retail customers,” said Raj Nair, Ford’s executive vice president and president – North America. “This is our strongest ever retail start for Escape, with retail sales up more than 6 percent versus this time last year.”

Ford Escape sales totaled 129,805 through May of this year, a 3 percent increase versus the same time period last year and our best ever start to the year for Escape. Lincoln MKC sales totaled 11,161 in the first five months of the year, up approximately 10 percent over this time period last year.

Louisville Assembly Plant is the only assembly plant in North America that will shorten the summer shutdown period. The remainder of Ford assembly plants in North America will have a traditional two-week summer shutdown.

Portions of a number of component plants will take a one-week summer shutdown, including: Van Dyke Transmission, Sterling Axle, Chihuahua Engine, Rawsonville, Chicago Stamping, Michigan Assembly Stamping and Woodhaven Stamping. Those plants will be closed the week of July 4 for building maintenance and machine retooling.

This production was included in the second quarter production guidance that Ford provided on April 27

END OF YEAR WORLDWIDE - LINCOLN - The Luxury brand ends the year significantly higher.

• The Lincoln Motor Company ends 2016 with a 10 percent gain in U.S. sales; a near threefold increase marks Lincoln sales in China last year

• In the United States, Lincoln posted strong gains in key luxury markets, including Florida, New York and New Jersey

• Lincoln’s strong performance in China supported by customers’ positive reception to the marque’s SUVs and a growing number of dealerships there

The Lincoln Motor Company ended 2016 with a 10 percent gain in U.S. sales – its best in nine years. Lincoln achieved nearly a threefold increase in sales in China last year, where it is now the fastest-growing luxury brand.

“The momentum is both gratifying and encouraging,” said Kumar Galhotra, president, The Lincoln Motor Company. “We’re pleased clients are recognizing the superior experiences and vehicles Lincoln offers.”

The U.S. increase comes against a luxury market that saw gains of less than 1 percent.

U.S. growth for the brand in 2016 was particularly robust in key luxury markets like New York, where sales were up 13 percent; Florida, up 10 percent; and New Jersey, where sales increased 9 percent.

Lincoln closed out the year strong, with sales up 18 percent last month compared to December 2015, driven by the all-new flagship Lincoln Continental. Continental was responsible for 64 percent of Lincoln’s growth in December.

Continental sales in December totaled 1,845 vehicles, up from November’s 1,419, outselling the Audi A6 and Lexus GS, according to sales data reported by the respective automakers.

Record sales in China

Having introduced its full vehicle lineup to China in 2015, Lincoln is now the fastest-growing luxury brand there.

Lincoln sold 32,558 vehicles in China in 2016 – a near threefold increase over 2015. Its strong performance was supported by customers’ positive reception to the brand’s SUVs, and a growing number of dealerships there, which reached 65 last year.

USA - Lincoln Motor Company launches the new flagship with a trip to Iceland for its TV Spots.

• The Lincoln Motor Company traveled to Iceland to shoot new television spots for its flagship vehicle, the 2017 Lincoln Continental
• The pieces – directed by Academy Award-winning cinematographer Wally Pfister – vary in tone
• Timeless, elegant, luxuriously quiet Lincoln Continental offers first-class travel

The Lincoln Motor Company traveled to the edge of the Earth to find a backdrop dazzling enough to introduce its timeless, elegant flagship vehicle – the all-new 2017 Lincoln Continental.

“Entrance,” a new TV spot for the “That’s Continental” campaign featuring Matthew McConaughey, was shot on a shimmering glacial plain about 160 miles from Reykjavík, Iceland, with black sand and shallow water offset by a stunning, stark horizon.

This new ad campaign is incredibly important to Lincoln. “It’s fresh, contemporary and very visual,” says John Emmert, group marketing manager, The Lincoln Motor Company.

“While many are familiar with the Continental nameplate, we wanted them to see our all-new flagship in a whole new way,” he continues. “A car as iconic as Continental could only be shot in a unique locale – one not familiar to viewers.”

The ads were directed by acclaimed cinematographer Wally Pfister, known for “The Dark Knight” and “The Dark Knight Rises.” Pfister’s work on “Inception” landed him an Academy Award in 2011.

The Icelandic terrain provides an unforgettable framework for such an impressive car, says Jon Pearce, global chief creative officer for Hudson Rouge.

The conditions were extreme, he recalls, with the crew conducting shoots in raw, unpredictable temperatures and driving rain. But then rainbows would light up the sky. “The clouds would break, the winds would die down, and it would become absolutely beautiful,” says Pearce.

“Entrance” is one of several unconventional spots featuring McConaughey, each of which highlights a distinct quality of the Lincoln Continental. This piece showcases a dramatic, sweeping view of the front of the flagship vehicle.

Some segments of “That’s Continental” were shot in Los Angeles.

“Crafted,” another piece in the campaign, offers a wry take on nontraditional storytelling. And for the first time in a Lincoln ad, McConaughey is featured in the back seat to showcase some of the rear seat amenities available for Continental, including a chauffeur switch. The feature allows a passenger in the rear to move the front passenger seat forward for extra legroom.

USA - Lincoln takes two IIHS Top Pick awards for the MKX and MKZ models.

The new Lincoln MKZ and Lincoln MKX have been named top safety picks by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in their respective categories:

• Lincoln MKZ, Midsize Luxury Car Winner*
• Lincoln MKX, Midsize Luxury SUV Winner*

IIHS conducts vehicle tests to determine crashworthiness - how well a vehicle protects its occupants in a crash. It also rates vehicles for front-crash prevention, systems that warn the driver or brake automatically to avoid or mitigate a frontal collision. 

The vehicles that perform best in the tests qualify for Top Safety Pick which has been awarded since the 2006 model year, or Top Safety Pick+, which was inaugurated in 2013.

According to IIHS, to qualify for 2017 Top Safety Pick, a vehicle must earn good ratings in five crashworthiness tests - small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength and head restraints - as well as a basic rating for front crash prevention. Also, IIHS says, a vehicle must earn good ratings in the five crashworthiness tests and an advanced or superior rating for front crash prevention.

The new Lincoln MKX further strengthens Lincoln’s position in the midsize luxury utility segment, one of the largest luxury segments in the U.S., representing about one-quarter of the retail luxury automotive market.

The new Lincoln MKZ for 2017 combines intuitive technology, effortless performance and distinctive design to deliver an enhanced driving experience Lincoln calls quiet luxury.

The vehicles are available with a suite of intuitive, driver-assist technologies. Their Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection uses camera and radar technology to monitor the vehicle’s proximity to other vehicles and pedestrians. If a potential collision is detected, the system can alert the driver with visible and audible warnings and, if needed, pre-charge the brakes and increase brake sensitivity to help provide full responsiveness.

The lane-keeping system uses a forward-facing camera to detect lane markings. It can apply steering wheel torque and alert the driver with a steering wheel vibration should sensors detect drifting.

Both vehicles are equipped with BLIS^® (Blind Spot Information System) with cross-traffic alert uses radar sensors to alert drivers with lights in their sideview mirrors if another vehicle is detected in blind spots. When drivers are backing up, the system can detect a vehicle approaching from either side, notifying drivers with a warning light and an audible tone.

An auto hold feature keeps the car at a complete stop without the driver having to press and hold the brake pedal – making stop-and-go driving more relaxing for Lincoln owners. Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection is an available technology that can help avoid some frontal crashes or lessen the severity of such events.

* With optional front crash prevention

LA SHOW - Lincoln showcases the Lincoln Navigator Concept at this years Show, a real leap forward in every aspect.

• The Lincoln Motor Company’s Navigator Concept, a full-size SUV boasting the brand’s quiet luxury features, will be showcased at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Nov. 18-27, offering auto enthusiasts a glimpse into the future of the nameplate
• Lincoln’s design team drew inspiration for the SUV from luxury yachts and sailboats, resulting in clean, modern lines for the exterior, and teak finishes and a wardrobe management system inside
• Navigator concept features an array of smart technologies designed to make the vehicle increasingly efficient on a variety of road surfaces

Auto enthusiasts can catch a glimpse of the Lincoln Navigator concept at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Nov. 18-27, as the brand hints at what’s next for its best-known nameplate – a full-size SUV geared toward quiet luxury.

The design team at The Lincoln Motor Company was inspired by luxury yachts and sailboats. This influence can be seen in everything from the vehicle’s clean, modern lines and Storm Blue exterior, to teak finishes and exquisite detailing throughout.

“Lincoln Navigator concept reinforces our commitment to give every Lincoln client what we call quiet luxury – vehicles and experiences that are elegant and effortlessly powerful,” said Kumar Galhotra, president, The Lincoln Motor Company. 

“Quiet luxury is what sets Lincoln apart. We’re showing fans of large SUVs how we can exceed their expectations, without being the loudest statement on the road.”

Lincoln’s most spacious interior yet – a key purchase consideration among buyers of large SUVs – is delivered with outstanding refinement in the Navigator concept. A custom wardrobe management system at the rear offers spacious organization for the savvy traveler. Six Lincoln-patented Perfect Position Seats adjust 30 ways to best support various body types. The driver’s seat includes independent deployable thigh support for maximum comfort.

Monitors on the back head restraints offer passengers Wi-Fi connectivity – allowing them to wirelessly share music and content from personal devices. In addition, Lincoln’s Revel^® audio system is specially tuned for superior sound quality throughout.

The concept vehicle is equipped with several drive modes designed to improve ride and handling and allow drivers to find the experience that best suits their given terrain. Drive modes affect steering, suspension and noise levels.

A 360-degree camera and enhanced park assist features take the stress out of parallel and perpendicular parking. The system seamlessly integrates views from four cameras – creating an overhead image that allows drivers to see all around the vehicle.

Navigator concept’s Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection uses radar and camera technology to scan the road ahead. If a collision risk with a vehicle or pedestrian is detected, the system provides a warning to the driver. If the driver doesn’t respond, it can automatically apply up to full braking force to help reduce the severity of – even eliminate – some frontal collisions. A lane-keeping system vibrates the steering wheel to alert drivers straying from their lane, providing mild input to encourage them back toward the center.

Lincoln Navigator concept is accessed through distinctive power gullwing doors and deployable concertina steps. A special lighting sequence – a signature Lincoln feature – welcomes passengers for every journey.

USA - Ford announces net imcome of $1.0Bn, down $1.2Bn from one year ago, profit and EPS are also down.

• Net income $1.0B, down $1.2B from a year ago; Total company adjusted pre-tax profit $1.4B, down $1.7B
• Earnings per share $0.24, down $0.31 from a year ago; adjusted earnings per share $0.26, down $0.26
• 2016 Guidance: Ford continues to expect total company adjusted pre-tax profit to be about $10.2 billion
• Global market share of 7.5 percent, down one-tenth of a percentage point from a year ago
• Ford Credit delivered best quarterly profit since 2011
• Automotive segment operating cash flow $(2.0)B, down $4.8B from a year ago
• Automotive segment pre-tax profit $1.1B, down $1.7B
• Automotive segment operating margin 3.3 percent
• Strong cash and liquidity including Automotive cash of $24.3B; cash net of debt $11.2B and total liquidity $35.2B
• Launched first all-new F-Series Super Duty in 18 years, as well as the flagship Lincoln Continental; on track for 12 global product launches in 2016
• Europe delivered $138M pre-tax profit, sixth profitable quarter in a row and best 3Q since 2007
• Ford remains Europe’s best-selling commercial vehicle brand
• Asia Pacific delivered a record 3Q pre-tax profit of $131M, up $109M from a year ago
• Ford surpassed 1 million sales in Asia Pacific following record August sales
• Ford Smart Mobility LLC invested in Zoomcar, the car-sharing leader in India
• Distributed $600M to shareholders in a regular quarterly dividend
• Global Lincoln sales up 17 percent from a year ago
• Year-to-date, net income $5.4B, down 2 percent, and adjusted pre-tax profit $8.2B, up $53M

”This quarter, we delivered key elements of our growth plan by fortifying our core business with the launch of the all-new Super Duty pickup, transforming Lincoln with the new Continental and investing in emerging opportunities with the acquisition of the Chariot crowd-sourced shuttle service. 

Importantly, we remain on track to deliver one of our best profit years ever.” Mark Fields, President & CEO.

USA - Lincoln continues to collaborate with Tasting Table, to promote the all-new Continental luxury sedan.

• Event was the latest in a series of collaborations between The Lincoln Motor Company and Tasting Table, introducing Continental at upscale venues in major cities throughout the United States
• Invited guests can engage with the highly anticipated 2017 Lincoln Continental; the vehicle heralds the return of Lincoln’s flagship – embodying elegance, effortless power and serenity
• An evening of food and entertainment hosted by Lincoln and Tasting Table at Atlanta’s recently opened Regent Cocktail Club on the rooftop terrace of American Cut, a fine-dining steakhouse

To create a culinary masterpiece, a skilled chef focuses on quality and originality, enticing the diner with flavor and flair. To create a luxury vehicle, dedicated designers and engineers blend personalized features with effortless power to appeal to the most discerning of clients.  

Invited guests had the opportunity to experience both as they enjoy the hospitality at the elegant Regent Cocktail Club on the rooftop terrace of American Cut steakhouse and engage with the highly anticipated 2017 Lincoln Continental.

The event is a collaboration between The Lincoln Motor Company and Tasting Table, a multimedia content provider for culinary enthusiasts featuring news, restaurants, recipes, a dining app and city guides through its digital platform. Lincoln is teaming up with Tasting Table on a series of similar events, introducing its all-new Lincoln Continental flagship sedan at upscale venues in major cities throughout the United States.

“Tasting Table is proud to collaborate with Lincoln to showcase the new Continental,” says Geoff Bartakovics, cofounder and CEO, Tasting Table. “It’s the perfect vehicle for finding inspiration out in the world and bringing it back home.”

Bartakovics is shown riding in the Lincoln Continental throughout Tasting Table’s new video series “I Know a Place,” in which he tours some of America’s best food cities with friends.

“In an increasingly complicated, noisy world, it’s a simple pleasure to find a sense of quiet, understated luxury in a modern, high-tech vehicle,” he adds.

Continental is the return of Lincoln’s flagship vehicle – an elegant, effortlessly powerful, and serene full-size sedan delivering quiet luxury and first-class travel.

In Atlanta, Tasting Table and Lincoln highlight the ambiance of the Regent Cocktail Club and food from American Cut, known for creating a modern interpretation of the classic high-end steakhouse experience. American Cut has been lauded in reviews for its quality and authenticity, traits it shares with The Lincoln Motor Company.

The Lincoln Continental will be on display in front of the restaurant; guests will be invited to learn more about the vehicle and the Lincoln brand.

“Creating warm, human, personally crafted experiences for our guests is very important for Lincoln,” says John Emmert, group marketing manager, The Lincoln Motor Company. “As fans of Tasting Table, we’re thrilled to collaborate with Geoff Bartakovics and his culinary platform to bring our ever-curious guests on the ultimate epicurean journey.

“And we’re delighted, of course, that the all-new Continental will be at the heart of those memories,” he adds.

USA - The 2017 Lincoln MKZ has been awarded the Top Safety Pick+ Award from the IIHS.

The 2017 Lincoln MKZ has earned the highest safety award issued by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety – due in part to its front crash prevention system.

To earn the agency’s Top Safety Pick+ award, a vehicle must have superior ratings in its small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, and roof strength and head restraint tests. 

It also must have an available front crash prevention system that earns an advanced or superior rating. Lincoln MKZ is available with an optional front crash prevention system that earns a superior rating.

Also helping Lincoln MKZ earn a Top Safety Pick+ are modifications to its front-end structure that boost the vehicle’s small overlap front rating and front crash prevention system. The small overlap front test represents a frontal crash in which only a small portion of the vehicle’s front end is involved.

In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety track tests, MKZ avoided collisions at 12 mph and 25 mph. The car also has a forward collision warning component that meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration criteria.

The 2017 Lincoln MKZ also is available with a suite of intuitive, driver-assist technologies. Its Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection uses camera and radar technology to monitor the vehicle’s proximity to other vehicles and pedestrians. If a potential collision is detected, the system can alert the driver with visible and audible warnings and, if needed, pre-charge the brakes and increase brake sensitivity to help provide full responsiveness.

The lane-keeping system uses a forward-facing camera to detect lane markings. It can apply steering wheel torque and alert the driver with a steering wheel vibration should sensors detect drifting.

Finally, BLIS^® (Blind Spot Information System) with cross-traffic alert uses radar sensors to alert drivers with lights in their sideview mirrors if another vehicle is detected in Lincoln MKZ’s blind spots. When drivers are backing up, the system can detect a vehicle approaching from either side, notifying drivers with a warning light and an audible tone.