DEARBORN, Mich. — The Ford Motor Company is working on two new seatbelt ideas to help cut down on deaths in auto accidents.

One is a four-point safety belt that the company calls a "belt and suspenders" idea and the other is an inflatable seatbelt with an airbag designed into it.

At the same time, Ford has announced that 14 of its 2007 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles will have side air curtains or the company's Safety Canopy and rollover sensor system as standard equipment.

The inflatable seatbelt was shown on the Ford Reflex concept at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January. The four-point seatbelt, which fastens at the center of the waist, has been tested in a Mustang Cobra. Ford says it is currently letting consumers provide feedback on the new belt designs' ease of use and the likelihood they would use the new systems.

What this means to you: Ford brags that it was the first automaker to sell vehicles with seatbelts, in 1955, and that it offered the first standard safety belts, in 1964. So this new initiative makes sense historically.

Ford announced at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show that it is reviving the legendary 5.0-liter 302 cubic inch V-8 engine for the aftermarket with a new line of BOSS 302 crate engines, which will go on sale in early 2007. The company also created a custom Mustang to showcase the engine.

Making its debut in 1969, the original BOSS 302 powered a limited production Mustang model sold for two years, which was known as the BOSS 302. The car got its name from the legendary engine that powered the Mustang to a Sports Car Club of American Trans-Am series win in 1970.

Entry level engines are rated at 340 and 345 hp. Higher performance versions include Ford Racing's "Z"-head equipped 302 and 347 cubic inch engines rated between 360 and 450 hp, depending on configuration. The BOSS engine series is capped by a 500 hp 331 cubic inch engine. The suggested retail price for the BOSS 302 block is $1,759, with BOSS engines ranging from $4,650 to $10,000 for the 500 hp BOSS 331 cubic inch engines. The engines come with a 12 month/12,000 mile limited warranty.

The Boss is back.

Ford Motor Co. is reviving its legendary V-8 nameplate with a modern version of the Boss 302, which debuts as a crate engine offering from Ford Racing at the Specialty Equipment Market Association Show today in Las Vegas.

But the Boss name will not be limited to the race track. Ford insiders say it is also the new name for Ford's Hemi-fighting V-8 that had been known internally as the Hurricane. That name lost favor at Ford after Hurricane Katrina and the automaker opted to dust off the popular Boss name.

The original Boss 302 debuted in 1969 under the hood of a limited edition Mustang of the same name. Sources familiar with Ford's product plan say the company is planning a 40th anniversary edition of the pony car for 2009 that will feature a production version of the new Boss engine. But the new motor is expected to make its production debut in the next-generation F-150 pickup, due out in 2008.

Reintroducing the Boss name on a racing engine is a good marketing move, according to analyst Jim Hall of AutoPacific in Southfield. "It builds up hype for the engine beforehand," he said. "They're trying to connect the concept of a crate engine with the production version. It gives you some credibility to talk about the new powertrain."

The 5.0-liter V-8 crate engine will go on sale early next year. It will be available in a variety of configurations with between 340 and 500 horses of power. The base block will start at $1,759, with prices for complete engines ranging from $4,650 to $10,000.

"It's designed to withstand the rigors of racing, but is also affordable and streetable," said Jamie Allison, manager of the Ford Racing Performance Group. "It's a new old engine."

Other than the name and the number of cylinders, there will not be a lot of similarity between the Boss 302 crate engine and the production version. While the iron-block crate engine uses old-fashioned push-rod technology, Hall said the production version will be an overhead-cam engine. It is also likely to have variable valve timing to boost fuel economy.

Ford killed the Hurricane program in 2005 because of concerns about development costs and rising gasoline prices. That decision dismayed many analysts who said the company desperately needed a more powerful V-8 to compete with DaimlerChrysler AG's Hemi and General Motors Corp.'s Vortec V-8s. Ford Americas President Mark Fields revived the Hurricane project earlier this year, but later decided to change the name.

Erich Merkle, an analyst with IRN Inc. in Grand Rapids, said that was the right move.

"This is an incredibly important engine for Ford," he said. "If you really want to be competitive in the pickup segment, you better have a good engine. They need it for the Mustang, too. Right now, the Mustang doesn't have any competition out there. But that is going to change."

Fields promised to introduce a new version of the Mustang every year as part of the firm's new "Way Forward" strategy. Next year will see the introduction of the Shelby GT -- a cheaper version of the Shelby GT500 -- and the company has already announced plans to build a Bullitt version in 2008.

Sources familiar with Ford's product plans say, the new Boss Mustang follows in 2009, in time to face a challenge from the new Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger. Ford plans to introduce a completely redesigned Mustang in 2010.

In addition to the special edition Mustang and the F-150 pickup, Merkle expects the Boss to find a home in the Lincoln Navigator and Ford Expedition SUVs.

legendary 5.0-liter 302 cubic inch V-8 engine

By Jim Kerr

I seem to be out of Sync. I look around and there are young (and young at heart) people everywhere walking around with mobile electronics (there were 57 million people born between 1981 and 1995). Maybe they are talking or text messaging on a cell phone, sending pictures to a friend, or perhaps you notice the ear bud wires for their MP3 player as they walk along. Mobile electronics communications have changed the way the current generation interacts and now Ford is bringing this to the automobile.

Ford has announced the launch of a new factory-installed, in-car communications and entertainment system based on Microsoft Auto software. It is called Sync and it is an updateable communications tool that will allow consumers the convenience of connecting their mobile electronics to their vehicle electronics seamlessly. The systems can then be operated using voice commands or the vehicle's steering wheel or radio controls. This may sound like science fiction, but it is here today. The 2008 Ford Focus will be the first vehicle to offer the Sync system and it will appear on other 2008 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury products soon.

Using Bluetooth wireless connection technology, Sync can connect up to six different cell phones to the vehicle. With the cell phone initially "paired" to the vehicle, the phone's personal features such as phone book and ring tones are automatically downloaded to the vehicle. The vehicle's built-in microphone and speakers now allow hands-free phone calls to be made. Incoming calls use the phone's distinctive ring tone. For outgoing calls, the caller can say the phone number digits or the person's name that they want to call, so the driver's eyes can stay on the road. Sync even offers call waiting (good when driving), caller ID and three-way calling capability.

Leave the car and your conversation is seamlessly transferred to the cell phone so phone calls are not interrupted. The phone book remains stored in the vehicle's memory even when the phone is out of the vehicle, but the Sync security program will not let it be accessed until the phone is in the vehicle again.

Like to text message instead of talking? Sync works for that too, translating the incoming text message and abbreviations into audio messages played over the vehicle's audio system. Twenty pre-determined responses that can be downloaded and customized, allow the vehicle occupant to say their response instead of stopping to text back a message.

Audiophiles were not left out. Plug in your portable music player and you have voice control of the system. Nearly all portable music players including Apple iPod, all MP3 players with "Plays for Sure" technology, and Microsoft's new music player, Zune work with the Sync system. The system supports MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV and PCM formats, so almost any tune can be played. Driver's can select music by the song, artist, genre, album or playlist simply by pressing the voice command button on the steering wheel and asking for your selection. Sync will let you do everything that you normally would on the portable music player, without ever having to touch it. Then the Sync system will display your selection on the vehicle's audio system display.

A USB 2.0 port on the dashboard can also be used to play music stored on flash memory sticks and can charge the portable player's battery while it is playing.

Sync is fluent in English, French and Spanish. As new software versions become available, Sync can be updated via a web site or from a Ford or Lincoln dealer. The current generation of young adults have grown up connected to the web. Sync will provide new levels of connectivity with automobiles, and instead of having to look away from the road, they can keep their eyes on the road and concentrate on driving. I may have to get in Sync!

• Powerful new 175 PS 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi performance diesel engine for Ford Mondeo, Ford S-MAX and Ford Galaxy
• Expressive new Titanium S series extends Mondeo and S-MAX customer choice
• New 'techno' style Galaxy Titanium model complements the classic Ghia series at the top of the range

Ford Mondeo, S-MAX and Galaxy customers now have even greater powertrain and series choices with the launch of a new high performance 2.2-litre diesel engine and sporty new versions of the popular 'Titanium' series.

Developed for performance, the new 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi is the largest displacement and most powerful diesel engine available in Ford of Europe's passenger cars. It gives a sustained 400 Nm of torque at 1,750rpm and 420 Nm of transient overboost provides the necessary power for brisk and confident overtaking manoeuvres. Maximum power of 175 PS is delivered at just 3,500rpm.

The engine has been developed and engineered by Ford and PSA Peugeot Citroën as part of the longstanding co-operation on diesel engines between the two companies. In its first applications with Ford, the engine has been specifically calibrated to provide performance, quietness and smoothness of operation in the company's large and luxury models – new Mondeo, Galaxy, and S-MAX.

"Exceptional quality and reliability are an accepted fact when it comes to our powertrains and this new engine is no exception," explained Nick FitzGerald, Chief Programme Engineer, Large and Luxury Products, Ford of Europe. "The power and torque available is equivalent to a much larger gasoline engine, but in diesel form gives improved like-for-like fuel economy."

New Unique Features
Delivering 400 Nm of peak torque – with a transient overboost of 420 Nm – the engine boasts two new features that are unique to this engine in the Ford line-up: A third-generation common rail and the turbo system with specifically-calibrated pedal mapping.

Third-generation common rail
This high-tech engine features Bosch piezoelectric injectors with seven-hole nozzles which use multiple injection capability and up to 1,800 bar of injection pressure.

Like other diesel engines in the Mondeo, S-MAX and Galaxy ranges, the diesel injection combustion process of the 2.2-litre provides five injections per combustion stroke. The time lapses between each injection are controlled electronically depending on the rpm and engine load, engine temperature and air intake temperature.

This combustion process enhances the premium feel of the vehicle, as it makes the engine very refined by reducing noise and vibration.

Turbo system and pedal mapping
A variable-geometry turbo ensures good efficiency and throttle response. Pedal map sensors that are specifically calibrated give the driver a sensitive and responsive throttle pedal feel, which contributes to an easy and convenient driving experience. The turbocharger is calibrated to offer superb responsiveness at low revs and seamless acceleration under part load conditions.
Good responsiveness at low revs contributes to good control in parking and manoeuvring situations. As the engine is switched off a throttle shut-down system lessens any vibration.

Performance and Emissions
The performance of this engine is demonstrated by its target acceleration figures; all Ford models using this engine can reach 100 km/h from a standing start in less than ten seconds.
A fully optimised combustion system also contributes to reduced emissions. The Mondeo, S-MAX and Galaxy models using this engine respectively emit 165, 176 and 179 g/km of CO2. "Given the power and torque, and therefore the acceleration of this engine, these figures are very reasonable indeed," said FitzGerald

The 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi engine is a Euro IV compliant engine equipped with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) which is designed and manufactured for zero-maintenance.

Uniquely, in Ford Motor Company products, the engine is equipped with an 'intelligent oil condition monitoring algorithm'. The system was developed by Ford engineers and is designed to ensure that the engine oil is maintained at optimal performance levels. An information lamp in the instrument cluster illuminates when the system recommends that the oil should be removed and replaced. This useful driver feedback is designed to give superior engine reliability and durability by tailoring the maintenance of the engine oil to the car's use. This is coupled to a 'variable' service interval of up to one year or 20,000km. Full technical specifications can be seen in the Technical Data section.

Sound Quality and Vibration
The best possible Sound Quality and Vibration (SQ&V) is an important aspect of all Ford powertrains and the new 2.2-litre diesel engine is no exception. The engine is fitted with balancing shafts to further diminish vibration.

Paired with Ford's acclaimed 6-speed Durashift manual transmission, this combination offers a powertrain with lots of torque – maximum 400 Nm at 1,750rpm – something that contributes to relatively few gear shifts and reduced driver fatigue. Twin pilot injections for the combustion process simultaneously optimise emissions, fuel economy and play a significant role in reducing the conventional noise of a diesel engine to contribute to the most pleasant acoustic behaviour.

"Conventional diesel technology is by no means dated thanks to the actions we take in developing the engines and calibrating them specifically to our range. Many drivers like the familiarity that a diesel engine gives them with the combined fuel economy, long service life and reliability and modern refinements in our portfolio where this engine will be available," explained Phil Lake, Chief Engineer, Powertrains, Ford of Europe.

Joint Ford and PSA Peugeot Citroën Development
"The development of this engine has joined the skills, experience and techniques of engineers from Ford Motor Company and PSA Peugeot Citroën to achieve high goals and objectives for this engine," said Steve Adams, Ford of Europe's Vehicle Line Director for Large and Luxury cars. "Thanks to the utilisation of system engineering, and modern digital simulation, a team comprising 200 people from both companies have developed the engine in just three years. A further 300 people are now assigned to the production of this engine."

New Sporty Titanium S series for Mondeo and S-MAX
The Mondeo and S-MAX ranges have been expanded by the introduction of a new sporty Titanium S model. Based on the highly specified Titanium models, new features and elements have been added to give both cars even greater styling presence and a highly sporty character.

"The 'Titanium' series features and styling details complement perfectly the 'kinetic design' elements of both vehicles, and with over 50 per cent of customers ordering this series, we know it is a success," said Adams. "Now, with the sporty Titanium S we have added more overt styling elements and features to create a new and individual series derivative."

Exterior Styling
The Titanium S series is available on new Mondeo five-door and wagon bodystyles plus the S-MAX.

A standard, full body styling kit gives the vehicles a unique and sporty look. Side skirts and a rear spoiler are a standard feature on the S-MAX and are now offered as an option on Mondeo, and are finished in body colour.
The lower trapezoidal front grille situated in the body-coloured front bumper skirt has a lower grille frame in a contrast colour of silver or anthracite, depending on the body colour. The upper and lower grilles of the Mondeo Titanium S have a unique honeycomb design for series differentiation. A new front fog lamp kit also features bezels – on the Mondeo Titanium S models – in the contrasting shades. The body-coloured rear bumper skirt incorporates an integrated diffuser in a contrasting shade that surrounds the tailpipe finishers on the exhaust.

Tailored Technology
Standard sports suspension gives a 10 – 15mm lower ride height than the regular suspension, and the set-up is unique, offering more stability over uneven surfaces, less body roll and more direct steering thanks to the use of harder damper settings, stiffer springs and suspension bushes. The Sports suspension complements the sporty nature and agility of the Titanium S, as do the 18-inch alloy wheels.

For Mondeo Titanium S customers choosing the option of Interactive Vehicle Dynamics Control (IVDC) with Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD), the sports suspension is not required and subsequently not fitted.

Ford's enhanced Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) is also fitted as standard to Mondeo and S-MAX Titanium S models, and gives the driver the swivelling and cornering headlight functions. Additional Titanium S features have been tailored to each car line; the S-MAX, for example, gains privacy glass while the Mondeo acquires a standard Ford Power start button.

Interior Styling
Soft-touch surfaces to key contact areas and the use of piano black and brushed aluminium surfaces have already become a signature of the high quality materials and craftsmanship of the established Titanium series. With the new Titanium S, further detailed changes to interior components, materials and finishes give the passenger compartments a sporty feel that is characteristic of the new series.

A new 'Carbotex Sport' appliqué is used on the door spears and areas of the instrument panel. Piano black surface areas have been extended forward to surround the multimedia unit and in-car entertainment controls. The Sports seats are partially trimmed in leather and red thread used in a running stitch frames and divides into sections the seat squab and cushion.

The same red stitching is also applied to the gear shift gaiter, the armrest of the centre console and – for the Mondeo Titanium S – the interior door panels. The leather steering wheel trim has been divided into four areas and the positions where the driver's hands would most naturally fall are finished in a special perforated leather trim which extends around the toggle switches and thumb rests. Red stitching has been applied to the inner radius of the steering wheel in a substantial diamond design. The interior look is completed by black velour carpet mats that are edged by a red surround.

Further Personalisation
The Titanium S models still leave scope for customers to further personalise their cars through the creation of an 'S Upgrade Pack'. Applicable to both Mondeo and
S-MAX Titanium S, customers can select aluminium pedal covers, HID
Bi-Xenon units in place of the AFS headlights and Alcantara seat trim in place of the partial leather.

New Galaxy Titanium
Until now, the most luxurious Galaxy series available is the Ghia. The Galaxy Ghia model features additional chrome exterior styling, a full length overhead centre console and automatic headlights and windscreen wipers.

"Galaxy customers like the layout and technology that the car gives them but they have also been telling us that they like the modern 'techno' and contemporary elements of the successful Titanium series used in the Mondeo and S-MAX," said Adams. "What appeals is the high level of equipment, the unique styling features such as the brushed aluminium finishes, and the driver assistance features like the Ford Convers+ full colour instrument display."
Responding to this customer feedback, a new Galaxy Titanium series is placed at the same high level as the existing Ghia model in the range, and includes the same high levels of standard equipment:

• Automatic headlights
• Automatic wipers with rain sensor
• 'Quickclear' heated front windscreen for most European markets
• Cruise Control
• Power operated and heated door mirrors with puddle lamps
• Rear air conditioning

In addition, the technology and driver assistance features are further enhanced by new styling features; many of which will be familiar from existing 'Titanium' Mondeo and S-MAX models.

The use of brushed aluminium in areas where chrome is used on the Ghia model and machined 5-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels are the key exterior alterations.

Inside the Galaxy Titanium, sports seats finished in Alcantara trim and the integration of privacy glass enhance the interior ambience while the standard fitment of the Ford Convers+ display in the instrument cluster enhances interaction between car and driver.
Ford's Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) headlights are fitted, equipped with lights that swivel plus additional halogen cornering bulbs. Sports suspension has been added to reinforce the sportier appearance of the exterior styling.

"We believe our customers will appreciate the detail touches made to the interior and exterior of the Titanium S series in our large car range, the availability of the new Galaxy Titanium as well as the performance of the new 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi 175 PS engine." Said Adams.

NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- Ford Motor Co. said Thursday that it will begin equipping certain vehicles with inflatable seat belts that the company says will help prevent injuries in auto accidents.

The inflatable rear seat belts will be available next year on the next-generation Explorers and will become more widespread over time, Ford said in a press release.

The inflatable belt's increased diameter helps hold rear seat passengers in the appropriate seating position, which will help reduce head, neck and chest injuries, according to Ford.

"Ford is pioneering inflatable seat belt technology to help enhance crash safety protection, while encouraging more people to buckle up with a more comfortable belt," Paul Mascarenas, Ford's vice president engineering and global product development, said in a statement.

According to Ford's research, 90% of drivers indicated that the inflatable belts are similar to or more comfortable than traditional belts.