Ford Explorer Breaks into the Fast Lane with Sales Growth

WATERTOWN, MASS. (11/02/2011)(readMedia)-- The number of Ford Explorers rolling off of showroom floors and onto American highways is increasing faster than any other midsize sporty utility, according to sales figures from Ford. With more than 100,000 units sold this year through early October, the reinvented Ford Explorer has seen the fastest U.S. retail sales growth in its class so far this year. Those impressive sales represent a 290-percent increase compared with the same period in 2010.

Helping the Ford Explorer cross the 100,000-unit milestone for the first time since 2007 is a new EcoBoost engine capable of 28 mpg on the highway that arrived at Ford dealerships at the end of August. Since then, the 2.0-liter EcoBoost model has accounted for 15 percent of all Explorer sales. Another boon to sales has been the Explorer's available rear-inflatable seat belts, an automotive industry first that recently earned Ford a 2011 Popular Mechanics Breakthrough Product Award.

"The newest batch of Explorers really addresses the reservations our customers may have had about previous generations of the SUV, including fuel economy and safety," said Peter King, general manager of Watertown Ford, a Greater Boston Ford dealer. "The new engines, especially the EcoBoost, have significantly reduced the costs of filling an Explorer's tank, while the rear-inflatable seat belts have eased the minds of concerned parents."

Recognized as remarkable, forward-thinking product technology, the Ford Explorer's inflatable seat belts were chosen by Popular Mechanics for their ability to provide additional protection to a rear passenger's head, neck and chest during a crash. They work by combining the restraint of a seat belt with the cushioning and force distribution effects of an air bag. Ford's innovative seat belts are particularly relevant to parents, as rear occupants tend to be either children or older adults.

While the 2012 Ford Explorer is already impressing buyers with its factory features, Ford has chosen to showcase the vehicle's aftermarket versatility at this year's Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show, which is currently taking place in Las Vegas and runs through Nov. 4. Three tricked-out Explorers will each offer a completely different look to Ford fans, with features ranging from unique 24-inch iForged concave wheels to custom black leather seating and DSO Eyewear-inspired custom LED headlamps.

In addition to the customized Explorers, modified versions of Ford's 2012 Focus and 2011 Fiesta models will also be present at the 2011 SEMA Show. Seven Ford Focus models, with variants present from companies like 3dCarbon, Roush and Gold Coast Automotive, will feature everything from powertrain and chassis upgrades to a Thule bike rack and racing stripes. Three Fiesta models will also receive a variety of modifications, like tire, intake and audio system upgrades, amongst other unique accents and accessories.

"The SEMA Show is all about making your vehicle truly unique and seeing how far you can take customization," added King. "Our younger buyers love that Ford's models can be customized in so many ways. The practical aspects of the Explorer draw people in, but the fun really begins when owners start to make the SUV their own."

About Watertown Ford:

Watertown Ford is where Greater Boston Ford lovers head for the best deals on new and used Fords. No other Massachusetts Ford dealer has the same dedication to the customer, and that dedication has earned Watertown Ford the loyalty of Ford owners all over the state. Their extensive inventory, as well as information about their premier Ford dealership, can be viewed online at http://www.watertownford.com. You can also like them on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/MyWatertownFord, reach them by phone at 800-584-6486, or visit their showroom at 625 Pleasant St. in Watertown, just minutes from Boston.