Planet Ford Honored with Top Ford Awards, Elite Dealer 6th Consecutive Year

ford elite one award

HOUSTON, TX (March 21, 2016) — Randall Reed’s Planet Ford in Spring, Texas is pleased to announce that the dealership has received multiple elite awards from Ford Motor Company. The Ford dealer has been No. 1 in the Houston area for 15 consecutive years and is the No. 1 Ford F-150 Dealer in the Nation.

Planet Ford received their 6th consecutive ONE Ford Elite recognition that rewards top performing dealerships. The family-owned dealership has been named in the Ford One Hundred Club for outstanding sales performance for being in the Top 15 in the Nation, The Premier Club for ESP and Parts for exceptional operations for being in the Top 12 in the Nation and Partners in Quality, the most prestigious tribute for the highest level of customer satisfaction and loyalty to Ford Credit.

SKV_1666“We are thrilled to receive so many repeated honors year after year,” said Shawn Burns, General Manager and Operating Partner at Planet Ford. “We have an amazing staff that works hard to ensure our customers receive top-notch service every step of the way whether they are here for sales, service, parts or collision repair.”

P45 Automotive News Luncheon“This is exciting news for us,” said Randall Reed, owner of Planet Ford on I-45, which is part of World Class Automotive Group. “As a family-owned dealership, we take pride in taking care of our customers and treating them like our friends and family.”

That hard work and customer dedication shows in the Planet Ford’s repeat customers and referrals. In addition, the Ford dealer is always seeking out new ways to better service customers. Recently, the dealership opened the largest Quick Lane Tire and Auto Center with 28 service bays. Planet Ford recently completed its new Pre-Owned Auto Center and is finalizing the construction of one of the largest Ford Trustmark Design New Auto Centers.

“It’s wonderful to have confirmation with awards like these of what our team strives to accomplish every day for every customer – provide top-notch service — is translating to truly satisfied customers,” added Mr. Burns. “After all, our customers and their happiness is paramount.”

About Planet Ford in Spring

Randall Reed’s Planet Ford in Spring is located at 20403 I-45 in Spring, Texas. The dealership has been the No. 1 Ford dealer in the area for 15 Years*. Planet Ford offers new Fords and quality pre-owned vehicles. In addition, Planet Ford also provides a full Service, Parts and Collision Department. Learn more at www.PlanetFord45.com.

About World Class

World Class Automotive is owned by Randall and Sherry Reed. The family-owned business is comprised of several dealerships throughout Texas, including: Planet Ford in Spring, Planet Lincoln in Spring, Prestige Ford in Garland and Park Cities Ford and Lincoln in Dallas.

 

*Based on retail ford sales reported by Ford annually since 1998.

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Planet Ford Drive One 4 UR School at Klein High School

Drive one 4 ur school klein high schoolWhat a great event! Planet Ford in Spring had a wonderful time supporting Ford’s Drive One 4 UR School with Klein High School. March 5th, the Planet Ford team rolled into Klein High School with several brand new Ford models, including the Ford F-150 and popular Mustang.

The goal was to raise up to $6,000. For every valid test drive taken, Ford donates $20 to the high school. Planet worked with the Lady Tigers Girls Soccer Team who hosted this FUNraising event.

At the end of the day, we conducted over 250 test drives and helped the Lady Tigers raise a lot of money. Stay tuned to learn how much this great group of kids, their teachers, parent and community helped to raise. We look forward to presenting them with the much deserved check soon!

To learn more about Drive One 4 UR School, visit www.forddrive4ur.com. To learn about Planet Ford in Spring (serving greater Houston, The Woodlands, Cypress, Aldine) visit www.PlanetFord45.com.

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Planet Ford Sponsors Drive One 4 UR School at Klein Collins HS

klein collins hsDo you love to drive awesome cars? Do you care about your community? Then, we invite you to join Planet Ford at Klein Collins High School on Saturday, March 5th, for for Ford’s Drive One 4 UR School.

Klein Collins’ Lady Tigers Girls Soccer Team will be hosting the annual FUNdraising event at the school which is located at 20811 Ella Blvd. in Spring, TX. The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Planet Ford will have a variety of awesome vehicles on hand that you can take for a spin, from Mustangs to trucks to SUVS. For every valid test drive completed, Ford Motor Company donates $20 to the participating high school. The school can earn up to $6,000.

It’s fun, its fast and it’s Fordtastic! Come help us raise money for these great kids and our wonderful community. To learn more, visit the event page at www.PlanetFord45.com!

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Planet Ford Supports Best Buddies Texas Friendship Walk

best buddies walk feb 265 2016 image002Planet Ford in Spring (serving Houston, The Woodlands, Conroe, Aldine) is excited to be a sponsor of the upcoming Best Buddies Texas Friendship Walk!

Best Buddies Texas Friendship Walk is taking place 8 a.m. Saturday, April 9th, at Lynn Eusan Park on the University of Houston campus. This year, Houston will also be adding a 5K Friendship Run to the Annual 1K Friendship Walk.

Last year, the Houston walk was named as a National Pacesetter by Best Buddies International and finished in the Top 10. Six teams from Houston’s event were recognized as National Pacesetters and finished in the Top 20 of ALL walk-teams across the United States.

Thanks to all those hard walkers, Best Buddies Texas raised over $75,000 and welcomed over 800 walkers. It was a great event in spite of the slight sprinkle of rain!

We look forward to another great event! For registration information and event details, visit www.bestbuddiestexas.org/hwalk. To learn more about Planet Ford, visit www.PlanetFord45.com.

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Planet Ford Celebrate Our Employees Milestones

P45 Social Dec Bday Anni 2015.1image007Today, the Planet Ford in Spring team celebrated celebrated the milestones of several employees who had anniversaries and/or birthdays in December. P45 Social Dec Bday Anni 2015.1image008

Shawn Burns, General Manager/Operating Partner of Planet Ford on I-45 presented Walter Santos with a gift in honor of 10 years of dedicated service to Planet Ford and our customers. Congratulations goes to Steven Loveless for 17 years of service to the Houston-area Ford dealer.

P45 Social Dec Bday Anni 2015.3image009Mr. Burns also recognized the Employee of Month for December, which goes to Sheila Gressett.   In addition to their recognition, each employee received a free spin and chance to win an extra prize at the Planet Prize Wheel.

Birthdays

William Ballard, Janet Burk, Devan Crowe, Biagio Diblasio, Michael Flammer, Justin Flook, Amy Flynn, Brenda Jimenez, Thomas Jones, Naveed Khan, Justin Mazzella, Glen Mcadams, David Moran, Donald Morgan, Larry Morris, Jett Morris, Ana Navejar, William Nguyen, Daniel Pereznegron, Bryan Pinckard, Angel Rodgers, Julio Saucedo, Aaron Smith, Brian Sprouse, Derek Tessensohn, Miguel Vasquez and Karen Witkowski.

Anniversaries

Steven Loveless, Walter Santos, Juan Martinez, Clennon Preyer, William Ballard, Martin Mendez, Hilda Garza, Austin Hawks, Rafael Munoz, Jose Chavez and Jessica Pittman.

 

Thank you to all of our employees for your hard work daily to help make Planet Ford the best dealership around!

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Difference Between 2014 and 2015 Ford F-150?

2015 Ford F150 Aluminum Image why smartest f150 ever exterior-r01-1If you’ve ever compared the 2015 Ford F-150 pickup truck with its predecessor, then you likely noticed a few exterior changes. But do you know the depth of the difference between both 2014 and 2015 models? Here’s a hint: It has a lot to do new features, engines and capabilities.

Ford F-150

Let’s get one thing straight: The Ford F-150 is actually one of the best-selling vehicles in the world. And, it has evolved quite a bit (as all models should) over time — something that is not necessarily obvious at first glance when admiring the new 2015 version. But once you step inside the vehicle, get ready to gasp in awe.

Interior Design and Features

The vehicle’s all-new aluminum-alloy body (something its predecessor does not have), saves weight and, therefore, improves fuel economy. However, important as this factor is, it’s not as noticeable as the upgraded quality of the materials found inside the cabin, the nicer layout, updated controls, new steering wheel and larger 8-inch LCD screen in the gauge cluster. In addition, Digital Trends says Ford’s massive new pickup also comes available with driver-assistance features such as a 360-degree camera, curve control, parking assist and adaptive cruise control. Overall, you may be surprised by just how many features are offered with the new F-150.

Engines Offerings

Ford’s 2015 truck was introduced at the 2014 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, where the automaker described it as the toughest, smartest and most capable version of the model — ever. That, of course, is due in part to new power units: The 2015 F-150 ditches the base 302-horsepower 3.7-liter V-6 found in the 2014 model for a 282-hp 3.5-liter V-6 engine. And, a new selection is available: a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V-6 unit that’s good for a total 325 horses, and that offers impressive city and highway fuel economy. What’s more, the truck’s aluminum construction has shed enough weight to actually improve the fuel ratings of the 5.0-liter V-8 unit.

Conclusion

While the 2014 F-150 pickup is definitely one to appreciate, the 2015 model has improved on so many levels that it would be crazy not to consider — let alone test drive — the truck. Contact or visit Planet Ford today to schedule a test drive!

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2016 Ford Explorer Platinum Edition Arrives at Dealerships

2016 ford explorer platinumPremium-grade SUV shoppers, get ready to be charmed by the new Ford Explorer option! 2016 Platinum Editions began arriving in Ford showrooms in September, and should continue to do so into the fall months.

What Is the Platinum Edition?

When it comes to the new Platinum Edition, Ford basically took its popular Explorer SUV — a best-seller for the past 25 years in the United States — and combined the performance of the Sport trim with new comfort features and top-notch interior craftsmanship. The result? Imagine stepping inside and discovering a leather-wrapped wonderland with multi-adjustable front seats covered in Nirvana leather with micro-perforation. You also have access to an industry-first 500-watt premium Sony audio system, driver-assist technologies, and under the hood, a powerful EcoBoost engine to propel you forward.

Interior Goodies

According to a press release, Michael Arbaugh, Ford Explorer chief designer, said, “This is the most upscale, high-quality interior we’ve ever offered on a Ford vehicle in North America.” No arguments here, since the vehicle includes real aluminum and ash wood on the instrument and door panels. The steering wheel is wood and leather-wrapped with the same stitching found throughout the interior, a 10-inch digital dashboard display is also featured, and color options range from Soft Ceramic to a new Ebony with Anthracite headliner combination, according to Ford.

Front and rear wide-angle lens cameras with washers, smart-charging USB ports and a hands-free liftgate should also sweeten the deal. Standard technology such as active park assist and a lane-keeping system further enhance the 2016 Ford Explorer Platinum Edition’s overall appeal.

Performance

In terms of under-the-hood goods, this particular Explorer is equipped with a turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The power unit is good for a total 365 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque.

It gets even better: The premium-grade model also includes intelligent four-wheel drive with a Terrain Management System, which has been described by Ford as a feature that “reassesses conditions about 20 times faster than the blink of an eye” for more precise traction and handling.

Conclusion

The new Platinum Edition appears to be a very appealing choice among upscale SUVs — a market that includes competitors like the Lexus RX 350 F Sport, BMW X5, Buick Enclave Premium, Land Rover LR4 and Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit.

Contact your Planet Ford dealer in Spring, Texas today for pricing and availability.

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Planet Ford Goes Green for Veterans Day

veterans day project green light planet ford
At Planet Ford in Spring and Randall Reed’s family of dealerships, we truly appreciate all of the great men and women who have and are serving our nation. From sales to service, many people who work in the dealership, have served our country and/or have loved who are currently serving.

Planet Ford Goes Green Veterans Day 2014 20151110_060154733_resized11

Planet Ford lit up for Project Greenlight to honor this who served

“This week, we not only pause to remember, reflect and be thankful this Veterans Day,” said Randall Reed, owner of Planet Ford and World Class Automotive, “we are lighting up the nights in green (aka Project Greenlight) to show our support across the great state of Texas at all of our locations.”

Planet Ford on I-45 and it’s neighboring Planet Lincoln are all aglow as the teams recognize Veterans Day. “This is one small way we can display a show of support and respect,” said Shawn Burns, GM/OP of Planet Ford (serving The Woodlands, Houston, Cypress, Conroe).

In addition, Ford Motor Company is showing their gratitude to all who have provided their honorable service to our country. The American automaker is providing a Ford Military $500 Bonus Cash Offer*! This exclusive offer is good toward the purchase or lease of an eligible new Ford or Lincoln vehicle.

*Available only to active members, retirees, veterans within 180 days of separation, and immediate family members of U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, National Guard or Reserve who are U.S. residents.  Proof of affiliation and driver’s license required. Limit one offer per military. Member or qualifying relative. May not be combined with other private offers. Take new retail delivery from dealer stock by 1/4/2016. See dealer for details. 

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Ford Teams up With Alcoa to Use Even More Aluminum in Vehicles

ford f150 aluminumWhen Ford redesigned its popular F-150 pickup featuring lightweight aluminum, not everyone believed in the new formula. However, the automaker is standing its ground on the issue and has partnered with Alcoa to implement even more of the material in its truck. One benefit is that it helps the manufacturer meet tougher fuel economy standards.

The Aluminum Way

Ford has teamed up with Alcoa Inc. to produce more formable and design-friendly aluminum alloys for automotive parts using Alcoa’s Micromill technology, which is set to debut on the new 2016 Ford F-150. The automaker intends on using the material on its new pickup soon, which translates to sometime between now and the end of the year.

The incorporation of this lighter aluminum feature helps reduce the truck’s weight overall, and when compared to its predecessor, which results in greater fuel efficiency. Another benefit is that it can help the automaker create a 2016 F-150 model that accelerates and stops faster — and tows and hauls more — than the 2015 version.

Klaus Kleinfeld, Alcoa chairman and chief executive officer, says, “This high-tech aluminum will give Ford a true material edge enabling greater design flexibility and better vehicle performance — making the concept cars of tomorrow a reality.”


Micromill Technology

According to the Ford, Micromill is 40 percent more formable than today’s automotive aluminum, and 30 percent stronger and lighter than high-strength steel. The material’s combined highlights — its strength, weight, formability and surface quality — was not something that was possible to have in the past.

The formability aspect, in particular, is important, as it makes it easier for Ford to shape the aluminum into more complicated forms like external fenders, or the inside panel of a car door. As for increased material strength, this quality permits Ford to use thinner aluminum sheets without having to worry about how it might affect dent resistance.

Why Use It?

Aside from the aforementioned points, Micromill is “the fastest, most productive aluminum casting and rolling system in the world.” How fast is it? According to Ford’s press release, Alcoa’s material will take as little as 20 minutes to turn molten metal into coil. Traditional rolling mills, on the other hand, take as long as 20 days to do the job.

Conclusion

Contact or visit Planet Ford dealerships in Houston, Texas for additional information regarding features and pricing of the new 2016 F-150 pickup.

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2016 Ford Edge Upgrades With Adaptive Steering

2016 Ford Edge SportThe Ford Edge, a well-equipped five-passenger crossover SUV, was recently updated with a fresh design and new turbocharged engine offerings. For 2016, the American automaker continues to enhance the desirability of its vehicle by introducing yet another new feature to the list: adaptive steering.

Ford Adaptive Steering

You can now expect the 2016 Ford Edge SUV to be easier to maneuver and more fun to drive, thanks to the manufacturer’s new adaptive steering technology. Power steering has been offered in vehicles for decades; the fixed ratio between the number of turns of the steering wheel and how much the front wheels will rotate makes maneuvering the car easier than it once was. However, Ford’s adaptive steering feature takes this concept to the next level.

What the automaker has done to make the job less demanding is simple: Ford’s new system is able to adjust the ratio in order to make the process of turning the wheel easier at low speeds, since fewer turns are required. This means that maneuvering in tight areas or even moving into a parking space should be a more pleasant experience. Once you make your way up to highway speeds, the system is designed so that the 2016 Edge SUV will react more smoothly to steering input.

For those of you seeking a more detailed description of the technology, Slash Gears says “The system features a precision actuator inside the steering wheel,” and that element has a motor and electronic gearing system “that can add to or take away from driver steering inputs.”

Overall, all you need to know is this: The technology makes Ford’s crossover SUV more maneuverable, and the feature comes equipped with the 2016 Edge Sport, and it is optional on the Titanium trim.

Updated Sync 3

In addition to adaptive steering, the new Edge also gets an upgraded version of the carmaker’s Sync 3 connectivity system featuring enhanced voice recognition that responds more naturally to your voice, so you don’t have to sound robotic when you make a call or send a text message. What’s more, the interface is new and easier to manage.

Conclusion

The 2016 Edge crossover SUV is up against the Nissan Murano, Hyundai Santa Fe Sport and Toyota Venza. It’s currently available as a 2015 model at Planet Ford dealerships. However, you should have access to the new version later this year.

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