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F-150 Brings LED Tech to Trucks| Lamarque Ford | New Orleans, Kenner

March 21, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Headlights were first introduced in vehicles in the late 1880’s. The first generation of headlamps were acetylene or oil based, and they came as a response to the high number of accidents that occurred at night. In 1898, the first wave of electric lamps debuted, but proved to be a failure due to the short life of the filaments and lack of power to keep them on. However, in 1912, Cadillac introduced the first good enough electric lighting system, which served as the cornerstone of modern day headlights.

Today, all vehicles that operate in public roads are required to have headlights. Modern lamps generate light from different sources like tungsten, tungsten-halogen, HID (high intensity discharge) and LED (light emitting diode). Although LED technology has been around for some time (christmas lights, anyone?), it wasn’t until 2007 that their performance was on par with other technologies. The first production vehicle with factory installed LED headlamps was the 2007 Lexus LS 600h, one of Lexus flagship cars.

Seven years later, however, LED technology is still not widely adopted in the automotive industry. LED lights have proven to be brighter and more energy efficient than other lamps, but they are still cost prohibitive for non-luxury cars. That’s why in 2015, Ford is taking a leap forward and bringing that very technology to their 6,000 lb workhorse, the new 2015 Ford F-150. Let’s take a look at the reasons behind this decision.

While redesigning the F-150, Ford engineers realized traditional headlights have to be replaced very often, so it was a natural choice to go with the long lasting LED option. LED lights also offer superior light quality and range, which translates into better visibility. Ford is the first manufacturer to bring LED lights to a truck, leaving competitors (and halogen lamps) in the dust.

Remember that along with airbags and seat belts, headlights play an important role in your vehicle’s safety. Statistically, most auto accidents happen at night, and better headlamps can significantly improve your chances of avoiding one. Stop by your local dealership so you can see the difference for yourself, as other high end vehicles are already using LED technology.

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Lamarque Ford is proud to be one of the premier dealerships in New Orleans, LA. Located in Kenner, LA, Lamarque Ford is committed to providing you the best customer service and vehicle service for the life of your vehicle. Whether you’re on the market to purchase, finance, or service a new or used Ford vehicle, you’ve come to the right place.

Flagship Cars | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans, Kenner, Metairie

March 19, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

For years, car manufacturers have tried to differentiate themselves from their competition. Flagship cars, namely the Shelbys, Camaros and Corvettes of the world, serve as an appealing image that attracts new buyers to those brands. At first glance, flagship cars are all about speed, sex appeal and youthfulness, traits car brands use to connect at an emotional level with potential customers. But there’s more to it.

This phenomenon is known in psychology as the halo effect, hence ‘halo cars’, and is nothing but our perceptual generalization of attributes. In other words, consumers associate these glorified vehicles with the brand as a whole, thus buying into aspirational goals. The halo effect is present in every industry and applies to products and services alike.

Halo or flagship cars are often criticized for luring buyers into the dealership, which then end up buying affordable options with lower quality standards. However, quite the opposite is true. Halo cars have a tremendous positive effect on brand recognition and new technology development, which bring in better options for consumers in the long run. Let’s explore the benefits cars like the Shelby 500 bring to the table.

As you may have guessed, flagship cars have bigger development budgets than their entry level counterparts. This allows for designers and engineers to explore new manufacturing techniques and materials. For instance, The Ford Motor Company just developed a new prototyping process for their concept cars, which could eventually be used for mass production; the 2007 Lexus LS 406 required Toyota to create the world’s strongest stamping press; countless of today’s in-car technologies were first introduced in high end vehicles, then trickled down to affordable ones.

From a marketing perspective, the halo car gives brands the opportunity to show off their latest innovations. It also gives consumers better visibility in terms of what’s coming in the following years. If we take a car like the next generation Ford Expedition, which features blind spot assist and rear view cameras, we can then assume such technology will be available in coming entry level vehicles.

Racing cars make an excellent ‘halo car’ example. As car manufacturers push technology to the limit, we get to see our everyday sedans in action. Nascar teams use modified versions of Camrys, Fusions and Impalas to show off the engines; Subarus and Minis compete in rally races to show off their steering and suspensions. This again, brings consumers closer to the brand and allows for a more honest relationship.

So don’t forget to stop by your local dealership and experience the latest technology available today.

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MyFord Touch Car Radio | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner

March 18, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

For over eighty years, consumers have had access to in-vehicle entertainment systems. It all started in 1930, when Motorola introduced the first commercially available car radio. As with most technologies, it was just a matter of time for this new category to explode. In 1965, Ford and Motorola introduced the first eight-track car player, and as music formats evolved, so did car stereos. Today’s future automobile’s in-car entertainment systems combine old and new technologies right on our dashboards.

Modern car entertainment systems bundle different audio formats (am and fm radio tuners, CD player, mp3 playback, satellite radio, etc) and navigation (GPS) under a unified interface. For years, we’ve interacted with these devices through buttons and dials, and only luxury cars offered solutions that went beyond the volume and tuner knobs. But today, thanks to the commoditization of some technologies, like touch screens and bluetooth, car manufactures can offer smarter alternatives. Let’s take a look at today’s top in-vehicle entertainment systems.

Present-day configurations rely on a touch screen as an input method and a layer of software takes care of the rest. Some car manufacturers, like Ford, Kia and Fiat, use a Microsoft proprietary system and then fine tune it to best fit their needs. Ford’s solution, MyFord Touch, includes voice commands, traffic and directions, wifi internet, vehicle health report and other connectivity features such as bluetooth, SD card slots and USB inputs. Other systems include Hyundai BlueLink, Kia Uvo, Fiat Blue&Me, BMW Assist, Mercedes Mbrace and Toyota Entune., which share similar capabilities.

Other technology companies have attempted to enter the auto entertainment system with little or no success. Recently, Apple announced its own software, with a whole new approach to the connectivity paradigm. CarPlay (which is what Apple calls its new system) uses your iOS device as the brains of your system, as it can already handle calls, music, internet, contacts, messages and other apps. The new system will be available for select 2014 Ferraris, Hondas, Hyundais, Mercedes Benz and Volvos. CarPlay is also coming to your favorite Ford vehicles in the near future.

In the mean time, take advantage of the great selection of driving apps available on your smartphone and stop by Lamarque Ford to try out MyFord Touch.

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Know Ford Mustang: V6, GT, Shelby GT500 | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

March 14, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

So we introduced the various models to choose from in the Ford F-Series line including the popular Ford F150’s, but now we’d like to introduce another line of Ford vehicle for our hardcore horsepower fans – the Ford Mustang family. If you’re in the market for a new car, you probably already know what you’re looking for: the perfect combination of usability, price, safety, fuel economy, and eye-catching style. What you might not know, is that the legendary pony car might meet your needs, and add a lot of fun to your driving. That’s right, the Ford Mustang has come a long way and it’s now available in a wide array of trims, engines and prices. From the fuel efficient V6 to the top of the line Shelby 500, there’s plenty to choose from. Let’s take a look at the different options.

To call it the base model would be unfair, because this entry-level Ford Mustang comes standard with amazing safety features and equipment that you probably won’t find in other cars in this price range. It comes standard with a 305 HP V6 engine, 6-speed state of the art manual transmission, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, HID headlamps and LED tail lamps and stainless-steel dual exhaust tips. Believe it or not, this car makes the perfect choice for the daily commuter with a need for speed, as it gets up to 29 MPG. Also part of the V6 family are the V6 Premium (which adds an upgraded audio system, color lcd display, and optional leather seats), V6 Convertible (pretty self explanatory) and V6 Convertible Premium.

Now here’s where things start to get interesting. 5 liter V8 engine. That’s it. That’s THE feature of this model. The GT trim also unlocks a myriad of other options and upgrades like the Brembo Break Package, GT Track Package (upgraded BOSS radiator, breaks and wheels) and FP8 appearance Package (19-inch Machined painted black aluminum wheels, black painted outside mirrors, black painted decklid spoiler). In addition, you can pick from GT Convertible, GT Premium or GT Convertible Premium. Amazing, isn’t it?

Shelby GT500

So if you thought the 420 HP 5L V8 engine of the GT was overkill, wait until you read this. The Shelby GT500 comes standard with a V8 5.8L. That’s right, this car boasts an engine bigger than ones found in full-size pickup trucks and it peaks at 662 HP. While is not made for the environmentally friendly, this Ford Mustang was born to race.

Don’t forget to check out other configurations for the Mustang, and be sure to test drive one at Lamarque Ford.

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Ford Ramps Virtual Crash Computing Power | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

March 12, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

In an effort to keep up with the increasing demand of virtual crash test data, Ford is increasing its investment in computing capabilities by 50% in hopes of maximizing the overall number of virtual crash tests. Just in the past 10 years alone, there have been over 2 million virtual crash tests.

Currently, a virtual crash test can take up to a full day to conduct. By further increasing this technology, Ford hopes to not only increase the number of virtual crash test but also obtain data more quickly as a result. The technological advancement can mean the difference in Ford further exceeding industrial safety standard in global markets. With the technological advances introduced in recent Ford vehicles like the new F-Series and the 2015 Ford Focus that introduced the new Sync AppLink System, Perpendicular Parking, Park-Out Assist, etc., there’s no surprise that safety is important. Stop by your local Ford dealership to check out the new safety features and test drive your new future Ford.

In regards to physical crash tests, Ford has been conducting crash tests from a variety of areas since 1954 including frontal, side, and rear impact tests with speeds ranging from less than 20mph to more than 55 mph. Preparation for a physical crash test can take anywhere from a few days to weeks depending on the circumstances of the test. These vehicles need to be mounted with special equipment for capturing information such as special mounts, cameras, and sensors to capture crash force, displacement, and pressure. Once the test has been conducted, Ford safety engineers review the crash data to determine the safety quality of the vehicle.

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2015 Ford Expedition features EcoBoost | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

March 10, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Last week we introduced the new, redesigned 2015 Ford Focus featuring Ecoboost. Today, we introduce the 2015 Ford Expedition and what it has in store for the Ford Expedition fan base. The new Expedition will feature twin-turbocharged Ecoboost engine, commonly seen in Ford F-Series, to deliver the most powerful, fuel efficient Expedition yet!

The Expedition made its first debut in 1996 as Ford’s largest utility vehicle. Today, the Expedition has come a long way in becoming the leader in interior space, performance, and the only full-size non-luxury independent rear suspension vehicle.

Top features for the 2015 Expedition include the Ford F-Series popular 3.5 liter Ecoboost engine, a new high-trim Platinum series, blind spot information system, and SYNC with MyFord Touch. Two variations of the 2015 Expedition will be available: the standard 119-inch wheelbase (3 seat rows and 108.3 cu ft. of cargo space) and the 131-inch wheelbase (3 seat rows and 130.8 cu ft. of cargo space).

Don’t think that just because the new Expedition will feature the Ecoboost engine that it has lost any power. Quite the contrary, the new Expedition will have increased torque and horsepower, combined with an advanced suspension making driving more exciting. The XLT sporty model and the urban Platinum models will each feature unique finishes customized to reflect your lifestyle and desires. Other featured versions include the Limited and a new King Ranch edition that will further encompass the unique custom designs Ford fans are looking for. Best to stop at your local Ford dealership quickly because with these specs and brunello (red wine) leather, the 2015 Expedition is going to go fast.

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2015 Ford Focus Debut with EcoBoost 3-Cylinder Engine

March 7, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

While we have been focusing on the new upcoming 2015 F-Series, we can’t leave the new 2015 Ford Focus out on the water. Introducing the stunning new 2015 Focus with a new face-lift that is reminiscent of the Ford Fiesta and Fusion with Ford Ecoboost technology.

The new 2015 Ford Focus will be available in two stunning types: the 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine with six-speed manual gearbox and the 2.0-liter GD114 engine available in either manual or automatic. The 2.80 liter four-cylinder is sure to pack a punch with 160 horsepower and 146 lb.-ft of torque and the 1.0-liter engine is sure to save you big with an estimated 40mpg highway. The new vehicle will also feature two parking assistance systems (one in US): Perpendicular Parking, a hands-free system that assists drivers in backing into spaces, and Park Out Assist, assists drivers to exit a parallel parking position.

The new sleek design for the 2015 Ford Focus will allow feature improved drag coefficient coupled with that new luxurious design. The new Sync AppLink system will allow drivers to utilize their smartphones to access onboard vehicle data including speed, acceleration, location, and odometer readings. Rest assured you won’t drive off the road with radar-based lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring. The interior of the car will feature a new, more modern look with new seat trims, chrome detailing, and an available heated steering wheel.-

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Upcoming Movies for Ford Car Fans | New Orleans

February 28, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

With the Golden Globes behind us and the Oscars coming up in March, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of new and upcoming movie releases. While many of the year’s best films covered topics as varied as space travel, artificial intelligence, and practically anything and everything in between, there is more than enough in the world of cinema for driving fans to enjoy.

Need For Speed

There’s plenty to get excited about with Need For Speed, the upcoming film adaptation of the iconic video game franchise. Set to be released on March 14 of this year, the film stars Breaking Bad’s Aaron Paul as a blue collar worker who sets out in a high speed chase across the country in the wake of being framed for a crime he didn’t commit. Equally as exciting, though, is the film’s inclusion of the new 2015 Ford Mustang. While Paul’s character will be featured primarily driving a heavily modified 2014 Ford Mustang, the 2015 version of the car will make an appearance as well. The car, which recently made its car show debut in Detroit back in January, features Ford’s Ecoboost technology and preliminary specs of up to 420hp.

Go Like Hell

Another adaptation, Go Like Hell is based on the AJ Baime book about the 1960s showdown between Ford and Ferrari at Le Mans. The rivalry reached its climax in 1966 while the two car makers battled it out at the 24 hour endurance race at Le Mans with Ford striving to be the first American car maker to win the race. Tom Cruise is set to play American car designer Carroll Shelby with Oblivion director Joseph Kosinski at the helm. Brad Pitt’s name has also reportedly been attached to the project as well, although it is not yet known which role he will play. While it is also yet unknown which Ford cars will be featured in the film, we can be sure that they will star in many high speed racing sequences.

Fast & Furious 7

The latest installment in a series that needs no introduction for racing fans, Fast and Furious 7 was thrust into the spotlight most recently in the wake of Paul Walker’s tragic driving accident. A direct sequel to Fast & Furious 6, Fast & Furious 7 features a host of big name Hollywood stars such as Jason Statham, Dwayne Johnson, Kurt Russell, and Michelle Rodriguez. While the list of cars to be featured in the movie is not yet known, FF6 showed high performance vehicles such as the BMW M5, Dodge Charger, and even a 1970s Ford Escort- so there’s no doubt that the latest installment will not disappoint in its car offerings.

Rush

While Rush has come and gone from theaters, it has recently been released on home media so anybody who missed Ron Howard’s driving spectacle can still enjoy it, albeit on a smaller screen. Starring Chris Hemsworth, Rush focuses primarily on the intense rivalry between two Formula One drivers. While you may not see any familiar cars by well-known makers such as Ford or Lincoln, be prepared to be blown away by authentic high performance machines made by the likes of Ferrari and McLaren. Released to critical acclaim, Rush is a relatively low-profile film that is not to be missed.

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A Look at the Different Ford F150 Models | New Orleans

February 27, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

With February and March being Ford Truck Month, it’s as good a time as any to know about the many different types of F-150 trucks available. While we all wait excitedly for the new 2015 Ford F-150 to arrive, there are many great options for the 2014 F-150 that can meet the needs of any truck enthusiasts. But if you’ve ever set foot on a Ford car dealership, you know that with all the different types of F-150s available it can be difficult to know which one is for you. While the 2014 F-150 comes in 10 different model types, here’s a look at some of the more popular types of F-150 trucks available.

F-150 XL

The XL is the base model, and is also the most affordable. It comes with options for regular cab, super cab, or supercrew; 5.5in, 6.5in, or 8in box; and V6, V8, or Ford Ecoboost V6 engine. While it doesn’t come with many of the nice interior or exterior features that some of the more expensive models have, it has many optional add-ons such as a rear view camera or steering mounted controls. It’s simply a more stripped down, no-frills version of the F-150.

F-150 XLT

Similar to the F-150 XL, the XLT has all of the same options for cabs and boxes, but also has the additional option of the more powerful 6.2L V8 engine. The XLT also comes with its own optional convenience package or plus package, and comes standard with Ford’s Power Equipment Group. It also comes standard with SecuriCode keypad on the driver’s side, electronic 6-speed transmission with tow/haul mode, Ford SYNC, and chrome grille and chrome surround.

F-150 King Ranch

The King Ranch is a significant step up from the XL and XLT. While it is more expensive, it offers many additional features not found in more inexpensive models. The King Ranch comes only with the supercrew cab, and is available with the Ford Ecoboost engine or 5.0L V8. It also comes standard with the Trailer Tow package, leather bucket seats, and Dual Zone Electronic Automated Temperature Control. The 18”, all-season tires that come equipped on the King Ranch make it well suited for those who need a powerful truck for working hard.

F-150 SVT Raptor

The Raptor is among the more powerful F-150 trucks available. Equipped standard with a 6.2L V8 engine, the SVT features a smaller size truck with a 5.5in box and either the super cab or supercrew. The SVT Raptor highlights high performance with tow/haul mode, hill descent/off-road mode, and Fox Racing Shox. It also has the optional 801A Entertainment package which includes the Raptor luxury package and Navigation System, including Sirius XM radio and Travel Link.

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Mardi Gras New Orleans Guide 2014: Part 2

February 26, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

In our previous post, Mardi Gras New Orleans Guide 2014: Part 1, we talked about some of the more popular krewes during New Orleans Mardi Gras, but with so much to do and see, here’s a few more to make sure you don’t miss. With some krewes favoring a more traditional, old-fashioned approach, others like to take a more modern approach with more emphasis on newer technology and celebrities. While certainly different, both are immensely entertaining experiences not to be missed. While we’ve already seen some of the oldest and most cherished krewes of the Carnival season, there are plenty others that, while they haven’t been around as long, are finding new and unique ways to celebrate the season.

Krewe of Tucks

About as far removed from a “traditional” krewe as you could get, Tucks was founded by a small group of Loyola University students and named after a popular uptown bar. Characteristics of Tucks includes low-brow humor and a taste for irreverence, including a procession of pick-up trucks, a giant toilet which serves as the King’s throne and branded toilet paper as a coveted parade throw. Tucks’ parade culminates on Canal Street with the Tucks Extravaganza, a paid admission event open to the public which typically features well-known local music acts.

March 1 at 12:00pm; Uptown

Krewe of Endymion

Another of the superkrewes, Endymion is perhaps the biggest and most extravagant of the Mardi Gras parades. If you plan on getting a good spot to view this parade, you may need to camp out a day or two early, as many long-time fans do. Endymion is also credited with popularizing the practice of throwing huge amounts of beads to onlookers, with their motto “Throw Until it Hurts.” Like Bacchus, Endymion also has a tradition of including famous celebrities, including Chuck Norris, Alice Cooper, Emeril Lagasse, and Jerry Springer.

March 1 at 4:15; Mid-City

Krewe of Muses

Muses is another well-known all-female krewe that enjoys its reputation of celebrating a light-hearted good time. Among the newer Mardi Gras krewes, Muses has only been around since 2000 and rode its first parade in 2001. One of the unique features of Muses is their choice of items thrown. Eschewing more commonplace items like beads and cups, Muses throws include such ‘girlie’ items as shoes, necklaces, and bracelets. Muses combines well known marching bands and dance groups with local celebrities and a good natured sense of humor to create a parade that is as entertaining as it is unique.

February 27 at 6:30; Uptown

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