The Long-Awaited All-New 2020 Super Duty Engine

Posted on August 6, 2019 by admin

Start your engines, Planet Ford in Spring  (serving greater Houston, Aldine, Conroe, The Woodlands, Cypress) has some torque-upped news from Ford! America’s best-selling truck for 42 years, the F-Series, is once again raising the bar for capability with its all-new 7.3-liter V8 gasoline engine. The 7.3-liter engine in Super Duty pickup cranks out best-in-class gas V8 output of 430 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and best-in-class torque of 475 ft.-lb. at 4,000 rpm.

Ford F-Series, America’s best-selling truck for 42 years, is once again raising the bar for capability with its all-new 7.3-liter V8 gasoline engine. The 7.3-liter engine in Super Duty pickup cranks out best-in-class gas V8 output of 430 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and best-in-class torque of 475 ft.-lb. at 4,000 rpm.

This is exclusive to Ford. No other competitor provides such a powerful and advanced gasoline engine in such a broad range of offerings – from Class 2 Super Duty pickups through Class 7 commercial trucks.

“The 7.3-liter is designed for maximum durability in the harshest environments given that our customers live and work in these conditions every day,” said Joel Beltramo, Ford manager for gas V8 engines. “This engine has the largest displacement in its class and is designed to provide benefits in key areas like power, durability, ease of maintenance and total operating costs.”

Ford F-Series, America’s best-selling truck for 42 years, is once again raising the bar for capability with its all-new 7.3-liter V8 gasoline engine. The 7.3-liter engine in Super Duty pickup cranks out best-in-class gas V8 output of 430 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and best-in-class torque of 475 ft.-lb. at 4,000 rpm.

Based on decades of commercial engine experience, the 7.3-liter V8 delivers class-leading performance in a compact package. The 7.3-liter V8 features an overhead valve architecture that generates power low in the rev range to help get heavier loads moving sooner and with greater confidence. It also features a variable-displacement oil pump, extra-large main bearings, forged steel crankshaft for durability, and piston cooling jets to help manage temperatures under heavy load.

The all-new 7.3-liter will be debut in Super Duty F-250 and F-350 pickup models. It joins the 6.2-liter V8 gas engine in the Super Duty lineup, along with the upgraded third-generation 6.7-liter Power Stroke® diesel V8. Additional power and capability numbers, including Super Duty towing and payload ratings, as well as power numbers for the upgraded 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel, will be announced later this year.

7.3L Gas V8 Super Duty Fact Sheet

A dyno-certified version of the 7.3-liter V8 producing 350 horsepower at 3,900 rpm and 468 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,900 rpm will be standard on F-450 chassis cab, F-550, the new F-600, F-650 and F-750 Medium Duty trucks, and F-53 and F-59 stripped chassis models. The upgraded E-Series will also feature the 7.3-liter V8. An optional calibration intended to help customers reduce their fuel consumption will also be offered; more information will be made available at a later date. 

For F-250 through F-600 models the 7.3-liter engine is paired with the all-new Ford-designed and Ford-built 10-speed heavy-duty TorqShift® automatic transmission. All other commercial models retain the TorqShift® heavy-duty 6-speed automatic transmission.

Ready for your own Ford truck that is Built Ford Tough? Our team at Planet Ford in Spring is here to help. Come down and see us at 20403 I-45, Spring, TX or shop online anytime at PlanetFord45.com.

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Ford Accelerates Autonomous Driving Efforts with Quantum Signal

Posted on August 2, 2019 by admin

Planet Ford in Spring, Texas (serving The Woodlands, Cypress, greater Houston, Aldine, Conroe, Tomball) is excited to see that Ford is making progress in their autonomous driving efforts. The automaker has acquired Quantum Signal, a cutting-edge company founded in 1999, that works on mobile robotics for numerous clients, including the military. Although not widely known to the public, Quantum Signal aided the military in developing software that allowed them to remotely control robotic vehicles from thousands of miles away. In addition, Quantum Signal created a simulation environment that is capable of testing autonomous vehicle designs that is still currently being used. 

Quantum Signal has operated quietly over the years, but according to Ford, Quantum Signal has been on their radar for quite some time. Over the past few years, Ford has been assembling a team of uniquely qualified experts in software development, simulation and machine learning from around the globe as they accelerate their autonomous vehicle development.

To further advance Ford’s goal of launching a self-driving vehicle business, Ford Motor Company has acquired Quantum Signal and will make use of its extensive experience in real-time simulation and algorithm development, as well as robotics, sensing and perception technology. The wide range of the group’s work portfolio means it will be able to support Ford in numerous areas as the company develops self-driving vehicles and transportation as a service business, including software development and hardware prototyping.

To read the full article from Randy Visintainer, Chief Technical Officer, Ford Autonomous Vehicles, LLC, visit the full Medium post here.

When you’re ready for a new Ford with its current cutting-edge technology including available lane keeping, BLIS, collision alert and more, come visit Planet Ford in Spring located at 20403 I-45, Spring, Texas. You can also shop online anytime at PlanetFord45.com.

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Planet Ford is Heating Up with Summer Savings!

Posted on July 25, 2019 by admin

Deals are heating up at Planet Ford in Spring’s End-Of-Month Summer Sale. Check out our red-hot savings on savings our huge selection of new Ford cars, trucks and SUVs! In the market for pre-owned? We have significant savings on both Ford Certified Pre-Owned and used vehicles of all makes and models, from Chevrolet to Toyota!

New 2020 Ford Explorer is Here!

Our Planet Ford team is excited to announce that the all-new 2020 model — that is redesigned inside and out — is now at Planet Ford on I-45! We invite you to come in and explore the new features now available. Talk about an SUV that offers more! There are more trim levels, powerful options, space, and smart, new technologies.

Road-Trippin’ SUVs

In addition to the all-new 2020 Ford Explorer, we have a sale on tons of our Ford SUVs.

Super Duty Truck Savings

If you are ready for a truck that is Built Ford Tough with a side of super savings, we have a huge election of  America’s most popular truck series.

Car’tastic Deals

Take advantage of falling gas prices and get into a fuel conscious Ford! From Fiestas to Fusions, Planet Ford has the Ford you need and want.

Shop Car Selection, Including:

Service & Parts Specials

Need a fresh oil change? How about some new tires? Planet Ford’s Service Department is ready to help get you back on the road with a healthy vehicle. We also have parts for that project you’ve been trying to finish. Need upgrades? We’ve got it. Just ask our Parts Department.

We have all your auto needs to welcome the new season with either a new vehicle, service or parts. Find it all here at Planet Ford in Spring (serving The Woodlands, Cypress, Aldine, Houston, Conroe). We are conveniently located at 20403 Interstate 45, Spring TX, 77388. Stop by or shop online at PlanetFord45.com.

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Planet Ford in Spring Has Ford Tough Trucks

Posted on July 23, 2019 by admin

Ford is Built Ford Tough, but it’s also built for adventure and fun! At Planet Ford in Spring (serving greater Houston, Aldine, Conroe, The Woodlands, Cypress), we have a wide range of trucks – from Ford F-150 Raptors, to Tremors, to add-on performance options. Explore the endless options at PlanetFord45.com!

Rugged Raptor 

As the performance trim of the F-150, the Raptor has a high-output twin-turbo, intercooled DOHC 24-valve, 3.5L EcoBoost® engine with port fuel and direct injection in tandem with a 10-speed automatic transmission that produces a whopping 450 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft. of torque. 

Not only is the 2019 Raptor sporty, it’s also leaner and meaner. The 2019 Raptor is nearly 500 lbs. lighter than the previous generation with its high-strength, military-grade, aluminum-alloy body. However, what really sets it apart is the technology underneath. Trail Control™ and the Ford Terrain Management System™ make it easier than ever to take you off-road.

Super Duty Strength

The heavy-duty pickup you’ll want on your work crew is the Ford Super Duty® — and for a lot of big reasons. Now with high-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloy, Ford was able to reinvest the weight savings in stronger high-strength steel frame and chassis components. For the strength and capability you need on the toughest jobs you tackle every day, the Ford Super Duty is the pickup that can do it all. 

If you love your Super Duty but need a truck that can be off-road capable, too, we introduce to you the 2020 F-Series Super Duty ‘Tremor’ Off-Road Package. The Tremor package is available for XLT, Lariat, King Ranch and Platinum F-250 and F-350 Super Duty trucks with the all-new 7.3-liter gas V8 or third-generation 6.7-liter Power Stroke® diesel. To read more about some other great features that the Tremor package will include, click here for the link to our blog detailing the Tremor package.

Planet Ford Performance 

No matter the make or model, Planet Ford in Spring has experts that can help you customize and personalize your vehicle. From custom paint jobs to lift kits, tires, wheels and more, we’ve got you covered! Visit us online or in store and our parts specialists can help. 

Start Your Engines 

When you’re ready for your dream ride, our award-winning team at Planet Ford is here to help. Take the short drive on I-45N to 20403 I-45N, Spring, TX or visit us online at PlanetFord45.com!

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Buy, Sell, or Trade at Planet Ford in Spring, TX

Posted on July 16, 2019 by admin

Ready to sell or trade in your car, truck or SUV? At Planet Ford in Spring, TX (serving greater Houston, Aldine, Conroe, The Woodlands, Cypress), we’re always looking to buy quality pre-owned vehicles. Our automotive team of experts makes it easy.  

Step 1: Visit PlanetFord45.com/True-Car to enter your vehicle’s information.

Step 2: Bring your vehicle in for a free appraisal.

Step 3: Accept the offer to sell or trade in your vehicle.

Did you know? We will buy your vehicle, even if you’re not buying from us!

Yes, it is that easy to sell your Ford F-150, Super Duty, Mustang, Fusion, Fiesta, Explorer, Escape, or Edge! We also buy other makes, such as Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mazda, Hyundai, Chevy, Dodge and much more! So, when you are ready, make sure you take the short drive on I-45 and exit at Louetta. You can also visit us online anytime at PlanetFord45.com.

In the meantime, make sure you are taking good care of your vehicle with these quick tips from the NADA.

Top tips to maintaining resale value:

  1. Avoid driving excessive miles
  2. Have your vehicle serviced on a regular basis
  3. Avoid excessive wear and tear
  4. Clean it up before you take it in for an appraisal
  5. Store it if/when your vehicle is not in use
  6. Avoid eating and drinking inside your vehicle, and don’t smoke in it

It will not only make you more money later, it will help you feel good about your vehicle the whole time you own and drive it. Plus, you will have the peace of mind knowing that you’ve maximized the value of your hard-earned dollars!

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July 4th 100-Hour Sale Countdown!

Posted on July 1, 2019 by admin

Happy 4th of July! Celebrate at Planet Ford in Spring, Texas with independence from high prices during the 100-Hour 4th of July sales event.* At Planet Ford (serving The Woodlands, Aldine, Cypress, Conroe, greater Houston area), we have spectacular deals on new Ford F-150 and Super Duty trucks. Looking for a new SUV to fit your daily driving needs? Ask about deep discounts* on the Ford Edge, Escape, Explorer and Expeditions.

If a Ford Mustang is more your speed, you’re in luck. We have a HUGE inventory of sporty ‘stangs, from standard coups to convertibles to special edition models. Have a Ford’tastic car on your wish list? No problem! Come in to see and save on everything from a Ford Fiesta or Focus, to a Fusion or EcoSport!  

Service Savings

Planning a road trip this holiday weekend? Make sure your vehicle is in tip-top shape! Take a look our coupons to help you save on general maintenance and repairs. We have great deals* on tires, brakes, batteries, ‘The Works’ oil change and more!

Holiday Hours

Our New and Pre-Owned Sales Departments are open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on July, 4th. Please note that Service, Parts and the Collision Center are closed for the holiday but will be open bright and early again on Friday for all of your automotive needs.

Summer Safety Suggestions

Before you hop in your Ford and take a trip, read our blogs about summer safety for you and your family as well as for your pets. It’s better to be safe than sorry!

Hurry in today! You won’t want to miss these star-spangled super savers during the 100-Hour 4th of July Super Sale at Planet Ford in Spring, conveniently located off I-45. Stop by the dealership to take a spin in a new Ford, Certified Pre-Owned Ford or any make or model of a pre-owned vehicle. You can also browse our inventory and start shopping online anytime by visiting www.PlanetFord45.com. Have a safe and happy Independence Day!

*Offers valid through 7/6/19. See dealer for complete details.

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Ford Tech Talk

Posted on July 1, 2019 by admin

If you keep up on car tech talk, you’ve probably heard about Cellular Vehicle to Everything Technology, or C-V2X. There are a lot of ideas and promises attached to this technology but as Don Butler, Executive Director, Ford Connected Vehicle Platform and Product, shares in a recent Medium article – it’s a daunting task.

If anyone can do it, Ford can. The Ford engineering team is creating new C-V2X innovations in addition to developing their core technologies.

At the Intelligent Transportation Society of America annual meeting in Washington, D.C. earlier this month, Ford demonstrated two advancements in Cellular Vehicle to Everything Technology (C-V2X). One of the advancements demonstrated is a roadside unit that allows communications between vehicles and other road users such as pedestrians, cyclists and e-scooter riders using different wireless technologies.  The other major advancement is an unalterable blockchain-based system that assists vehicles in negotiating the right of way at multi-way intersections for efficient traffic flow.

Advanced Roadside Communication

Vehicles equipped with C-V2X can communicate with other road users, such as pedestrians, scooter riders and others if they ‘speak’ the same technological language. This allows these C-V2X vehicles to determine the other users’ intended paths. If these other road users intend to cross their path, C-V2X vehicles can avoid a potential risk by ‘speaking’ to users, or if they do not speak the same language, the vehicles can translate signals from various wireless technologies, such as Bluetooth, to avoid collisions.

Navigating with Blockchain

Consider a future where we have human drivers alongside autonomous vehicles. What will happen when these vehicles approach a multi-way stop? We will no longer be able to wave at the next driver signaling that it’s their turn to go. However, this is where the blockchain technology becomes crucial. This unalterable blockchain-based system would allow road users to ‘discuss’ who will be entering the intersection and when. This ‘conversation’ happens so quickly, within a fraction of a second, so there would not be any delay while at the intersection. This technology would increase safety, efficiency, and security.

Are you interested in seeing where the future of automotive technology is going? Connect with Planet Ford in Spring (serving greater Houston, Conroe, Aldine, Cypress) on social media or follow us online for the latest Ford news.

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Summer Safety Tips with Planet Ford

Posted on June 28, 2019 by admin

Are you ready to hop in your Ford and head out for adventures in the summer sun? Before you do, there are a few quick safety tips to keep in mind for your adventures around town and on the road. Planet Ford in Spring, Texas is here to help ensure that you and your family stay safe this summer with some great tips.

Staying Cool at the Pool

Enjoying your pool or heading out to the river? Before you go, here are some water safety tips courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

  • Always supervise children when in or around water. A responsible adult should constantly watch young children.
  • Teach kids to swim. Formal swimming lessons can protect young children from drowning.
  • Learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Your CPR skills could save someone’s life. Click here to find your local American Red Cross CPR course.
  • Install a fence around home pools.

Recreational boating and river trips can be a fun way to spend time outdoors with friends and family. Make boating safety a priority and be sure to wear a properly fitted life jacket each time you and your loved ones are on the water.

High Heat Index

Did you know that infants and children up to 4 years of age are at the greatest risk for heat-related illnesses? However, nobody is immune. The CDC recommends taking these steps to prevent heat-related illnesses:

  • Never leave infants, children, or pets in a parked car, even if the windows are cracked open.
  • Dress infants and children in loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
  • Schedule outdoor activities carefully, for morning and evening hours.
  • Stay cool with cool showers or baths.
  • Seek medical care immediately if you or your child have symptoms of heat-related illness.

To learn more about summer safety regarding your pets, read more at our blog.

Seek SPF in Summer Sun

Putting the top down is fun, but you need to watch out for the sun! The CDC states that just a few serious sunburns can put you and/or your child at an increased risk for skin cancer later in life. That’s why it’s vital to apply, and reapply, sunscreen to protect you and your child’s skin from the harmful UV rays when enjoying the outdoors. The CDC recommends:

  • Cover up. Clothing that covers your and your child’s skin helps protect against UV rays.
  • Use sunscreen with at least SPF (sun protection factor) 15 and UVA (ultraviolet A) and UVB (ultraviolet B) protection, a.k.a. a broad spectrum sunscreen, each time you and your child go outside.

Fireworks Fun

We all love to enjoy fireworks, but some things are better left to the professionals. However, we realize that many of you may enjoy your own fireworks this summer, so we’re here to give you a few tips on fireworks safety with the National Safety Council. (To read the full list of fireworks safety tips, click here.)

  • Never allow young children to handle fireworks.
  • Older children should use them only under close adult supervision.
  • Never hold lit fireworks in your hands.
  • Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding.
  • Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don’t go off or in case of fire.

If you have a furry family member, be sure to read our blog on Summer Pet Safety!

We love our loyal Planet Ford in Spring (serving The Woodlands, Cypress, greater Houston, Aldine, Conroe, Tomball) customers which is why we want to provide you with these tips to keep you and your family safe. Interested in staying safe with a new Ford vehicle? Visit us online or in store and our team will be sure to help you with your needs!

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Remembering Pet Safety during the Summer Heat

Posted on June 27, 2019 by admin

Is your furry friend a part of the family? If you love your pets as much as we do at Planet Ford in Spring, Texas, then you probably want to make sure they are always safe – especially during the hot summertime in Texas. So, we wanted to share a few helpful tips to help beat the heat for your furry friends whether you’re on the road or at home.

To keep your pet safe from overheating, take these precautions provided by ASPCA experts:

Plenty of access to Water: Dehydration can happen quickly in our furry friends, so make sure they have plenty of shade to rest and water to drink.

Be Familiar with the Symptoms of Overheating: excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, drooling, mild weakness, stupor or even collapse. Symptoms can also include seizures, bloody diarrhea and vomit along with an elevated body temperature of over 104 degrees.

Paws on Asphalt: When temperatures are high, your pet’s paw pads can burn and with our friend’s body being so close to the grown they can heat up quickly.

Fast Fact:– Animals with flat faces, like Pugs and Persian cats, are more susceptible to heat stroke since they cannot pant as effectively. These pets, along with the elderly, the overweight, and those with heart or lung diseases, should be kept cool in air-conditioned rooms as much as possible.

Car Heat & Travel Safety

NEVER leave your animal alone in a parked vehicle: Not only is it illegal in some states, but it can lead to a fatal heat stroke.

Buckle Up– Keep your favorite companion safe by securing them in their own seat belt.

Sticking to Barriers– Pets love to be by our side and riding shotgun, but if you have an excited and anxious pet who wants to give you kissing or be in your lap, setting up barriers would be ideal for both. There are many different types of barriers that can be installed in all vehicles.

Entertainment– Just like kids, pets can get bored on long road trips, pack their favorite chew toy and bone for them to enjoy on the ride

Food Facts

What is yummy to you can be toxic to your pets. Click here to see what foods are a no-go for your furry friend.

From all of us at Planet Ford (serving greater Houston, Aldine, Conroe, The Woodlands, Cypress), we hope you have a fur’tastic summer. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly ride, our experts here at Planet Ford are here to help. You can shop online anytime at PlanetFord45.com.

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Planet Ford Hosts Drive 4UR School: Grand Oaks High Football Booster Club

Posted on June 27, 2019 by admin

Planet Ford in Spring proudly presents Drive 4 the Grand Oaks High School Football Booster Club. Help us support our local students by coming to test drive a new Ford vehicle at Grand Oaks High School. For every test drive, Ford will donate $20 to the Grand Oaks High School Football Booster Club. Join us and enjoy refreshments and a Ford gift!

When: Monday, July 29th 5:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. 

Where: 4800 Riley Fuzzel Rd., Spring, TX 77386

Who: Anyone 18 years or older with a valid Texas Driver’s License

The Mission

Help Planet Ford in Spring, Grand Oaks High School and the Spring community meet our goal of completing 300 test drives* to raise $6,000.00! 

The Ford ‘Drive 4 UR School’ program has raised more than $40 Million to date. Help Planet Ford in Spring (serving greater Houston, Conroe, Aldine, Cypress) and our partners raise $6,000 for our local community students. 

To Join

RSVP with your preferred time to AHorak@PlanetFord.com.

Stay up to date by following the event on Facebook.

*Test Drivers must be age 18 or older and hold a valid Texas Driver’s License. See Drive4URSchool.com for details.

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