Every spring, the New York International Auto Show summons about a million visitors to the Jacob Javits Center in Midtown Manhattan, making it the country’s most popular auto exhibition. And even in the middle of a downturn like this one, people will be eagerly watching to see how automakers from across the globe address the challenges of the troubled market and whether the latest offerings meet a new set of consumer needs.
Ford Motor Company’s response to these challenges has been rapid and robust, bringing it plenty of attention and acclaim over the past few months. The 2009 New York Auto Show offers another opportunity to display its bold new direction.
Among the highlights, we’ll get a look at the Fiesta Movement, an initiative that lets 100 savvy consumers drive a Ford Fiesta ahead of its American debut next year. Along with six months’ free access to this sporty, fuel-efficient compact (it’s already a favorite in Europe), they’ll also get free gas, parking, insurance, and concierge. In return, the winners promise to document their experience online and undertake monthly “missions” set by Ford.
Also on the floor will be the Transit Connect, which just made its American debut and promises to transform the way small businesses transport goods and services. We’ll get a look at how it’s already delivering on that commitment.
And Ford will show off some of its groundbreaking in-vehicle technology: MyKey, which lets parents set limits on teens’ driving habits; Active Park Assist, which uses ultrasonic sensors to steer cars into tight parking spaces — hands-free; SYNC with Traffic, Directions and Information, which makes Ford’s voice-activated stereo control even more connected; and Ford Work Solutions, which gives drivers who use Ford vehicles on the job a range of technologies to get that job done.
Altogether, Ford’s recent reveals are a strong indication of how the automaker is advancing to deliver great products to every type of American consumer. Look for even more of these new offerings when the New York show opens on April 10, and check back here for all the details from the show floor.