Ford Charges Up for 2012 Announcing Exclusive Collaboration With SHFT.com

DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 14, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) today announces an exclusive collaboration with SHFT.com, the award-winning multimedia platform founded by actor and filmmaker Adrian Grenier and film producer Peter Glatzer. The automotive leader and green lifestyle website are joining forces to inspire people to make smarter environmental decisions through film, design, art, transportation and culture.  

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As part of Ford's mission to accelerate the development of more fuel-efficient and alternative-fuel vehicles, the company is teaming up with SHFT.com to put the power in the hands of millions of Americans who are interested in being more eco-conscious and saving money.  

"Our goal is to provide the vehicles and resources to help people live more sustainable lives," said John Viera, director of Sustainability, Ford Motor Company. "We are working with organizations such as SHFT because they share a similar philosophy – looking at the small and large actions that can make a real difference in a creative and authentic way, which is part of Ford's commitment to allow people to choose which fuel-efficient and green solution works best for them."  

Selecting the right vehicle is a significant decision for individuals seeking greener lifestyles or just looking to save money when driving. In a recent national survey, Ford found nearly half of Americans are confused when it comes to green vehicle options, with 46 percent not knowing the difference between a hybrid, plug-in hybrid or electric vehicle. Ford aims to help address this confusion in the marketplace through its collaboration with SHFT.com and its power of choice philosophy.

"SHFT.com celebrates businesses where great design, sustainability and innovation meet, which is why we are so excited to be forging this relationship with Ford," said Grenier.

"Shared core values are at the heart of our collaboration," adds Glatzer. "Our common goal is to present the best sustainable options to the conscious consumer in an inspiring and entertaining way and to embrace the individualistic choices people need to make."

Together, Ford and SHFT are collaborating on a variety of programs to inspire and invite consumers to take a more sustainable approach in life. This includes developing the creation of a short documentary series profiling leaders in innovation who are shaping new sustainable businesses that are influencing positive change around the world. Ford and SHFT also are looking at live-event programs and film festivals to further spread their shared mission.

Ford's power of choice

Ford believes in the power of choice – offering customers a range of fuel-efficient vehicles is the best way to reduce CO(2) emissions, while still meeting the various needs of individuals. In line with this philosophy, Ford is delivering a range of eco-friendly driving options, spanning both traditional gas-powered vehicles and electrified vehicles.

Thanks to Ford technologies such as EcoBoost®, flex-fuel powertrains and hybrid batteries, consumers have access to a variety of vehicles that promise function and style while making driving a greener and more affordable experience.

Green driving leadership

Electrification also is an important piece of Ford's overall product sustainability strategy, which includes five Ford electrified vehicles for the market, the Focus Electric, Fusion Hybrid, C-MAX Hybrid, C-MAX Energi plug-in Hybrid and Transit Connect Electric. Additionally, Ford Motor Company has four cars that achieve an EPA-rated 40 mpg or higher, including Fiesta, Focus, Fusion Hybrid and Lincoln MKZ Hybrid.

"Ford is excited to be collaborating with innovators at SHFT to develop real solutions to help consumers live a more sustainable lifestyle," said Viera.

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 166,000 employees and about 70 plants worldwide, the company's automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit www.ford.com

ABOUT SHFT.com

SHFT is a new media platform, offering original video series, curated shopping, and a host of resources that speak to a modern, inspirational, eco-conscious lifestyle. Actor/Filmmaker Adrian Grenier and Film Producer Peter Glatzer founded SHFT after creating the TV show "ALTER ECO" for Discovery's Planet Green. The duo decided to build a platform that uses media to curate the myriad sustainable choices now available to us and to highlight the cultural shift taking place. SHFT is made possible through founding partnerships with Virgin America, Stonyfield Farm, Marvell semiconductor, and Ford.  For more information www.shft.com.

SOURCE Ford Motor Company