Ford Gives $2.1 Million to University of Michigan Battery Lab

WESTLAND, Mich. - Ford gives $2.1 million to a University of Michigan Battery Lab, that is expected to help researchers test new battery prototypes for hybrid and electric vehicles. The way batteries are currently tested can be time consuming and costly, due to the fact that batteries are tested at the battery production site and then sold to automakers - more specifically, Ford Motor Company. If Ford decides to buy the batteries, they are tested at the Ford facility and then implemented into vehicle production.

Since this process is so long and the battery goes through so many hands, development of the batteries are slowed down immensely and can become very costly. By creating a battery lab at the University of Michigan, battery manufacturers, researchers, and automakers will be able to come together and develop batteries quickly and more efficiently. It also gives automakers a chance to have input much earlier in the development process.

The goal for creating this lab is to develop batteries that are smaller, lighter, and less expensive to produce. The current batteries in hybrid and electric cars are made of expensive materials, which in turn, raises the price tag of the fuel-efficient, environmentally friendly vehicles. If Ford is able to find a less expensive way to produce batteries that are more efficient for your car, the price tag will see a decrease - something all Ford consumers will love!

Ford has given $2.1 million towards the University of Michigan lab, but other investors include the University of Michigan, Michigan Economic Development Corporation, and the U.S. Department of Energy.

If you'd like to check out the Ford Fusion Energi or the Ford C-Max Energi - two vehicles that use the above mentioned engines - stop by our Southgate Area Ford Dealership! We have a great selection of New Ford Cars and Low Mileage Used Cars, both of which have a few hybrid/electric vehicles that you'll love. So come on by and let us help find you a vehicle that you'll love!

North Brothers Ford, located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185, is proud to be one of the premier dealerships in Southeast Michigan committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at (888) 806-7163, our knowledgeable sales team will be happy to help!

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Ford Motor Company Sponsors University of Michigan 2013 Solar Car

WESTLAND, Mich. -  The University of Michigan Solar Car Team has unveiled their 2013 Solar Car called "Generation", in Detroit this week. Sponsored in part by Ford Motor Company, The University of Michigan 2013 Solar Car will soon be on its way to Australia for the 2013 World Solar Challenge. The challenge will be 4-5 days long and will take place over 3,000 kilometers of Australian soil.

With the message "Go fast. Go smooth. Go blue.", the 2013 University of Michigan solar car sponsored by Ford is one that many have been eagerly awaiting. After developing the solar car over the course of a year, the Solar Car Team is proud of what they have accomplished and remain optimistic about the challenge. Having won third place for the last five Australian challenges (which occur every other year), Big Blue is hoping to step up their game this time around. The U of M Solar Car Team has also won first place at the American Solar Challenge seven times; something to be proud of.

The vehicle, paid for primarily from various sponsors such as Ford Motor Company, cost about $1 million to create. Around 100 students helped design the solar car, and only 20 will take it to the competition in Australia.

If you'd like your own vehicle that drives quickly and smoothly, stop by our Plymouth Area Ford Dealership today and we'll happily assist you with Car Loans and Used Car Values.  North Brothers Ford, located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185, is proud to be one of the premier dealerships in Southeast Michigan committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at (888) 806-7163, our knowledgeable sales team will be happy to help!

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