Ford Power Products Press Release 12 June 2001
DEARBORN, Mich., June 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Ford Power Products (FPP), a
subsidiary of the Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F), has announced plans to
introduce Ford engines as the new power alternative to the North American
marine industry.
"The boating industry is ready for a change in power leadership and Ford
is positioning to do just that!" said Jack Damron, President and CEO of Power
Products.
Ford plans to target markets with engines that range from a compact I-4 to
the brawny V-8 and V-10 Triton engines. For the serious performance boater,
Ford will also offer the 5.4L Supercharged version of the "Lightning" engine
that is featured exclusively in the Ford SVT Lightning pick-up truck. Ford
Power Products is also collaborating with Michigan-based Sterling Performance
Engines, a specialist in offshore and other high-performance engines, on
marinization packages.
Ford will be opening their new marinization and light assembly operation
in Kennesaw, Georgia in September. Plans call for the 42,000-sq. ft. facility
to house Ford's Marine Division offices, marinization operations, and
inventory for engine and parts fulfillment.
"The plant location and warmer Georgia climate are more conducive to
engine and boat testing, compared to the extended winters of Michigan, and
many of our market partners, suppliers and customers are nearby," Damron
added.
While FPP has maintained a marine presence over the past several years,
their return as a major engine supplier sends a clear message: The market is
ready for a competitive alternative, and Ford plans to meet that need.
Ford Power Products plans to offer a "Customer Bill of Rights" that will
reflect a program dedicated to making the selection of Ford engines a "best in
class" experience.
"We believe that boat builders and their customers will appreciate the
advantages offered with Ford marine power," said Damron. Ford manufactures
some of the finest engines available in their size and power segments, as
evidenced by the recent award received from Ward's AutoWorld magazine naming
the Ford 5.4 liter V-8 engine as one of the "10 Best" in the world for the
fifth consecutive year since its introduction in 1997.
Ford Power Products, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Ford Motor Company,
sells Ford engines, transmissions and other powertrain systems to original
equipment manufacturers in the industrial, marine and vehicular markets.
Headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan, FPP has locations in Kennesaw, Georgia,
Aveley, England and Cologne, Germany. Ford Power Products is ISO 9001
certified and holds the Ford Q1 quality award. For additional information
about FPP, visit its web site at http://www.fordpowerproducts.com .
SOURCE Ford Power Products
Web Site: http://www.fordpowerproducts.com
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