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Why You Need a Ford Raptor

June 15, 2018 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

By now, you’ve probably heard all about Ford Raptor. For anyone looking for a truck that will be extremely impressive off-roading, the 2019 F-150 Raptor is the truck for them. Ford recently announced they are making updates to the F-150 Raptor that will make it run better once it’s off the pavement. The biggest update is the switch to the new Fox Racing Shox real-time adaptive shock absorbers.

Ford engineers are using Live Valve technology for the shock absorbers, so they use the Raptor’s terrain management system and real-time information to adjust compression rates and improve the Raptor’s ride. This causes the Raptor to detect when it is in mid-air and it fully stiffens the shock absorber to reduce the risk of bottoming out on landing.

Also added to the Raptor was a low-speed off-cruise control called Trail Control. Similar to Toyota’s Crawl control, the system modulates power and braking automatically, so the driver can focus on steering.

They are planning on making any major exterior cosmetic changes, but they are having a new wheel design and adding three new paint colors to the rear graphics, Ford Performance Blue, Velocity Blue, and Agate Black. In the interior, they are adding Raptor-specific Recaro performance seats with inserts and stitching inspired by Ford’s GT supercar.

The 2019 Raptor goes on sale in late 2018 with all its new gear. Ford is planning changes for many of their cars as they try to be conscious of what the American people want. By 2020, nearly 90% of Ford’s North American lineup will be trucks, SUV’s, and commercial vehicles.

Ford Named A Most Ethical Company 2015 – Lamarque Ford

March 9, 2015 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Today, The Ford Motor Company was named a 2015 World’s Most Ethical Company by the Ethisphere Institute. The honor was earned thanks to Ford’s ethics compliance, corporate responsibility, leadership and innovation.

Ford is the only automaker to receive this honor, and the company has earned it for the past six consecutive years. Ford is recognized for promoting ethical business practices both internally and with consumers. Ford has continuously affirmed its commitment to sustainability, workers’ rights and the environment, which show what the company does beyond selling their product.

Ethisphere recognizes companies based on five different categories: corporate citizenship and responsibility, ethics and compliance, culture of ethics, governance and leadership, innovation, and reputation. Ford ranks highly in all the categories and exceeds industry standards by setting future best practices.

Other companies in the list include Gap, Google, Dell, and L’ORÉAL.

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.

Focus RS Officially Debuts – Lamarque Ford – New Orleans

February 27, 2015 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

We’ve known about the upcoming Ford Focus RS for a few months, but this week, the AWD hatch made its official debut at the Geneva Motor Show. The all-new RS is one of many Ford vehicles focused on driving dynamics and high-end performance.

The Focus RS is powered by a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine producing over 315 horsepower. Thanks to turbo-charged technology and new light-weight materials, this is the fastest, more powerful Focus ever. At the Geneva Auto Show, Ford also announced the RS will come with launch control, a new technology pioneered by the 2015 Mustang. Launch control allows for the wheels to spin in place before launching, which allows for faster and improved acceleration.

New to the RS, however, is drift control, a technology that allows to safely achieve oversteered drifts. Ford has added an improved AWD system, which is calibrated to the car’s electronic stability control. Along with the sports suspension, the performance AWD gives the RS unprecedented driving dynamics.

What do you think about the new RS?

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Ford’s Crew Chief Fleet Management | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

August 18, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

If you manage a vehicle fleet of any size you know how complicated it is to keep up with each driver. Ford has a solution, Crew Chief, which puts you in command of your operations without missing any details.

How Does Crew Chief Work?

Crew Chief is an interplay of hardware and software, and it can be pre-installed at your Ford dealership. It works by using a GPS receiver, or “black-box,” that is connected to the sensor systems of your fleet vehicle. The data is collected in real time then stored and processed using a web application, which you can access from any computer with an internet connection. The data is presented to you in a user friendly screen, with customizable dashboards and tools that let you run reports and look at all the analytics.

Metrics and Features

Crew Chief offers metrics for a wide variety of attributes, from engine oil to breaking and acceleration patterns. Monitoring your vehicle’s metrics can help save thousands of dollars, by either detecting problems early on or by spotting inconsistent driving patterns. More specifically, Crew Chief can monitor the following systems:

Oil life. Monitors the percentage remaining.
Tire pressure. Sends you notifications when the low pressure light is on.
Driver insurance. Notifies you when insurance is about to expire or has expired.
Diagnostic trouble code. Also known as the “check engine light,” notifies you when it comes on.
Engine coolant temperature.
Excessive RPM. To avoid permanent engine damage or undesired driver behavior.
Safety belt. The system alerts you when drivers are using the seatbelt.
Airbag. Crew Chief notifies you when an airbag has been deployed or is faulty.
Battery. Get instant alerts for a draining battery, so your drivers are never stranded.
Excessive idling. Idling leads to poor fuel economy, which can cost you thousands.
VIN. Records other vehicle information like engine size, model, make, etc. Great for recovering stolen vehicles.
Driver license (expiration). It allows for storage of your team’s driver license numbers and expiry dates.
Hard breaking/acceleration. Helps you keep safety a top priority.

While all these metrics are a great help when managing your fleet, the greatest feature of Crew Chief what you can do with this information. Get real time alerts and map overlays of your choosing. Crew Chief includes the latest commercially available satellite imagery and when coupled with turn-by-turn directions, become a great for assisting your drivers on the road.

Got a new job request? Not a problem, you can now find the closest available driver with just a few clicks. Since your fleet vehicles are always connected, Crew Chief can show you driven routes and alert you when drivers are speeding. In the end, Ford’s system allows you to become more efficient at using your available resources in real-time.

Productivity

Once you’re used to the metrics and data, it only gets better. Crew Chief is integrated with a powerful reporting tool that lets you compare daily gas usage, miles, and many other parameters.

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2015 Ford Fiesta: New Features | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner

June 10, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Today, the Ford Fiesta has become the go-to model for a growing number of Americans that care about the environment but don’t want to sacrifice a fun ride. With the 2015 Ford Fiesta rolling out soon, here are some features and specifications to look out for in the upcoming model including a turbo-charged Ford Ecoboost engine.

Features: What’s New?

Following the Fiesta’s facelift in 2014, the 2015 Ford Fiesta remains virtually unchanged for the upcoming model. However, reports suggest a new color and a small price reduction might be on their way. Even when left untouched, the Fiesta retains its spot in the top five affordable small vehicles. Year after year, Ford has proven to have a strong contender in the Fiesta, as it carries over an impressive engine lineup and options only found in bigger sedans.

Exterior

The 2015 Ford Fiesta will return with two available body configurations, a hatchback and a sedan, and three engine options. The base model is an efficient 4-cylinder engine, offering up to 120 horsepower and 31 mpg combined. Entry level buyers should remain confident as the base Fiesta S offers enough punch and comfort to rival other cars in its price range. Ford will also be offering two turbo-charged Eco-Boost engine options: a 3-cylinder for the SE and Titanium models and a 4-cylinder performance option for the speedy ST version.

Interior

The interior of the new 2015 Ford Fiesta will feature AppLink capabilities for voice control function along with Ford SYNC for a complete hands-free experience for navigation and listening to music. The upcoming model will also feature an emergency assist system that notifies emergency services if a car accident occurs. For added safety, the 2015 Fiesta will also feature a driver knee airbag in addition to the standard dual front airbags.

Benefits of a Compact Car?

Although the Ford Fiesta is an affordable compact, it is not necessarily targeted at low-budget consumers. Anyone looking for great fuel economy should make the Fiesta an option. Reviewers of the sporty Fiesta ST praise its maneuverability and fast throttle response, and the fully-equipped versions stack up well against entry level luxury cars. Let’s also remember the engine offered in the ST model is the same found in the larger Ecoboost Ford Fusion, a 3,400 lb. vehicle (the Fiesta ST weighs 700 lbs. less!). Ford has found the perfect balance in the Fiesta with world-class fuel efficiency and a small-car, big-engine approach for the thrill-seeking driver.

Competition

In today’s crowded car market, competition has many names. Virtually every car manufacturer today offers subcompact models, from Honda’s Fit, the Fiat 500, Mazda 3 and Kia Rio, consumers have more options than ever. Still, Ford Fiesta stays ahead of the competition and shines where others don’t. Let’s recap and look at all the options Ford has to offer:

Hatch back/sedan options
Ecoboost technology and ST sport models available
World-class fuel efficiency
Fun to drive (many other compacts fall short here)
Latest technology available, like MyFord Touch, Bluetooth connectivity, automatic temperature control, sport seats, etc.
Top-of the line design

Let’s hope Ford surprises us for 2015 with more extra features or a new diesel engine, as the manufacturer already offers clean diesel versions of the Fiesta in Europe. In the meantime, let’s enjoy what the current model has to offer and head to your local Ford dealership for a test drive.

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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.

Ford Lightweight Concept Announced | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans, Kenner, Metairie

June 6, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

For the last few years, The Ford Motor Company has invested heavily in new technologies and it has paid off. Next year, the company will be introducing a redesigned Mustang and F-150, which show Ford’s fast paced implementation and commitment to research. As with most models, concept cars and prototypes become part of the learning process in which engineers understand the actual pros and cons of new materials and manufacturing processes. Last week, Ford introduced a new prototype model to explore the lightweight technologies future models will use.

Ford Lightweight Concept

The Ford Lightweight is a concept car that builds on existing technologies developed for the all-new 2015 Ford F-150. The vehicle’s body seemingly resembles a Ford fusion, except it weighs in at only 700 lbs. Ford has achieved this through a new process for manufacturing high-strength steel for the frame and a new aluminum alloy for the body. The result? A full-size sedan that weighs as little as a Ford Fiesta.

Future Development

Ford’s new blueprint for sustainability means the company is focusing on better performance, improved fuel efficiency and less carbon emissions. With their latest push in materials research, Ford has found that weight has as much to do with fuel efficiency as does the engine and driving habits. Hence, the benefits of a lighter, stronger car are immense.

Additionally, Ford has found great success in prototype development as it’s currently enjoying increasing sales around the world and an array of new models coming next year. Prototype vehicles are used by car manufacturers as a learning medium and give them the flexibility to test different materials, engines and production techniques before

Other Prototypes

Prior to announcing the 2015 F-150, Ford introduced the “Atlas” concept, a full size truck with a bolder design, LED headlights and an aluminum and steel body. Ford engineers used the design to test and refine elements that eventually led to the F-150. Throughout the process, Ford research team was able to determine whether or not the aluminum alloy would withstand extreme conditions, such as construction sites and long hauling trips.

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2014 Ford Transit Connect Revealed: Features, Specs | New Orleans

May 29, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Fans will be excited to see that the automaker has finally moved forward with the Ford Transit by introducing a new modern, sleek body style for the 2014 Ford Transit Connect. Although the previous model did have its perks, the new 2014 Ford Transit introduces an array of new appealing features that make this new Ford vehicle a must-get for Ford fans who want a combination of towing capacity, excellent fuel economy, and cargo-van/passenger-wagon capabilities. See your local Ford dealer for the new 2014 Ford Transit Connect today!

Engines and Sizes Galore!

The most noticeable change to the 2014 Ford Transit Connect is its sleek new appearance, but what’s going on with the under the hood specs? For starters, the old 2.0-liter engine found on the 2013 model has been replaced with two more powerful motors to choose from: the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and the turbocharged Ford Ecoboost 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine.

In addition to new engine power, the 2014 Ford Transit Connect will also introduce a passenger-wagon styled vehicle to move away from only contractors using the vehicle. It makes an excellent vehicle for families that want the towing capacity of a truck, but the comfort of a van or SUV. The 2014 model will introduce a 5-passenger and 7-passenger longer model. You have the option of getting the 5-passenger model with either a 2.5-liter, 169-horsepower I4 or a 1.6-liter, 178-horsepower turbocharged I4 Ford Ecoboost engine, or the 7-passenger model with only the 2.5-liter, 169 horsepower I4.

Not only does the 2014 Ford Transit Connect introduce more power via the 2.5-liter and turbocharged Ecoboost Engine, but it also introduces better fuel economy! The Ecoboost engine will deliver 22 MPG city and 29 MPG HWY, while the 2.5-liter engine will bring a less appealing 20 MPG city and 28 HWY. Keep in mind however, that you can only get away with the Ecoboost engine with the 5-passenger vehicle. So you’ll have to decide whether fuel economy is more important than additional passenger/cargo space that the 7-passenger vehicle offers.

Meet the New Interior

Whether you decide to get the 5-passenger or 7-passenger 2014 Ford Transit Connect, you will be introduced to a brand new, spacious interior with plenty of leg room, capacity, and comfort. If you require extra room for transporting cargo, you can fold the second and third rows to add an additional 104.2 cubic feet. You can also customize how you room the interior with second rows down but third rows up with reclining seats for extra comfort.

The 2014 Transit Connect basic features will include AdvanceTrac with roll stability control along with front, pelvis, and side airbags and side-curtain airbags for every row of seats, and anti-lock brakes.

Different Models Available

There will be five different models available with the 2014 Ford Transit Connect:

Van XL – will include the basics, 16-in steel wheels, remote keyless entry, power windows, A/C, AM/FM stereo with AUX input at $22,995.
Van XLT – includes power heated mirrors, fog lights, 4.2-in info display, CD audio system and upgraded driver seat at $24,520.
Wagon XL – includes the basics for 7-passenger (added seat rows) at $25,995.
Wagon XLT – includes XLT features and available at 5-passenger at $25,520 or 7-passenger at $27,520.
Wagon Titanium – includes 16-in alloy wheels, leather upholstery, power driver seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, SYNC voice-command and rear view camera at $29,995.

Stop by your local Ford dealership to see each of the 2014 Ford Transit Connect trims and walk away with yours today.

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2015 Ford Mustang Aerodynamics | Lamarque Ford | Kenner, Metairie, New Orleans

March 28, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

When buying a new car, most of us don’t think about aerodynamics. In fact, most of us don’t know what aerodynamics really are, and why should we? After all, we just want a smooth ride, great performance and outstanding gas mileage. However, aerodynamics play an important role in almost everything your car does, from better handling to a more comfortable ride.

Aerodynamics are nothing but the way airflows interact with your car, or according to NASA, “the way air moves around objects.” In other words, as your car accelerates, it displaces the air around it creating forces that work for or against it, depending on the design. Ideally, a vehicle with good aerodynamics uses air in its favor for several things including cooling the engine and breaks, ‘planting’ the car to the ground, and improving maneuverability at high speeds. Car manufacturers use drag coefficient to measure how aerodynamic a car is based on it’s shape.

For 2015, Ford engineers have completely redesigned the Mustang, allowing them to put a great emphasis on aerodynamics. With a more muscular look, Ford designers were able to bring the hood lower to the ground, which improves the air flow and puts less wind resistance. The Ford team went as far as redesigning the Mustang’s underbody to keep it closer to the ground. The all-new design also uses door-mounted mirrors to reduce wind noise when driving at highway speeds.

Although aerodynamics play an important role in a vehicle’s efficiency, the 2015 Ford Mustang keeps a balance between design and performance. We understand it’s not easy to have both good looks and aerodynamics, as some of the cars with the best drag coefficients turned out to be really hard on the eyes. Regardless, Ford design and engineering teams worked closely together to ensure the legendary Mustang was as attractive as ever.

Also, remember there’s nothing like test driving a new car to really understand what’s been put into it. Get in touch with us to get a feel for the 2014 Mustang, as you’ll have to wait until fall for the 2015 model. Stay tuned!

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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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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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