Ford leads the way as automakers embrace weight-loss

One of Ford Motor Co.’s strategies to overtake rivals is to reduce the weight of its lineup. CEO Alan Mulally said that coming up with lightweight vehicles is the foundation of the carmaker’s plan to comply with stricter fuel and safety regulations without having to let go of the pickups and SUVs where most of its profits come from. It was in 2006 that Mulally joined Ford from Boeing Co. He was immediately tasked with deciding the
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WorldofLuxury - 2/14/2011 10:59:27 PM

+1 Boost

There's the Porsche Cayenne, but this is more affordable, so kudos Ford!

ceric - 2/15/2011 12:23:20 AM

+1 Boost

What is the point of this article when they missed their target?

"Curb weight has not yet been officially announced, but a Ford engineer confirms the new V6 Explorer is just 100 pounds lighter than the old V8 4WD model. Not exactly a major reduction when the V8 SUV weighs over 4,700 pounds."

Let me remind you:
Highlander: 4100-4300lb
Pilot: 4300-4500lb
CX9: 4300-4500lb
...

uaw_lax - 2/15/2011 1:21:15 AM

+1 Boost

Highlander 23 MPG HY
Pilot 23 MPG HY
CX9: 23 HY
Explorer 27 mpg HY

internationalmanofmystery - 2/15/2011 8:58:35 AM

0 Boost

"weight-loss"

Yup, we are focused on the important stuff around here. Oh wait, forget we said that!!

internationalmanofmystery - 2/15/2011 8:59:23 AM

+1 Boost

"Ford leads the way"

...to press??

truckman - 2/15/2011 12:33:59 PM

+2 Boost

"Kuzak claimed that he had found how to shave off nearly 100 pounds (45 kilograms) from the 4,450-pound total weight, achieve 24% better gas mileage; but at the same time, make the vehicle longer and wider and keep its off-road performance"

What would happen if he shaved off 200lbs? 48%better...lol Impressive economy, because that is the bottom line, it is the technology that made this better on fuel, not a mere 100lbs, if it were the 100lbs that makes this suv better on fuel then as soon as he brings a passenger on board does he loose the 24% increase in economy? I don't think so.