5 Awesome Things About The New 2020 Ford Explorer

Posted on June 19, 2019 by admin

When the all-new 2020 Ford Explorer was debuted in Detroit at Ford Field, we couldn’t contain the amount of excitement we were all feeling. The announcement brought smart new features, beautiful new design queues and two new Explorer models that we can’t wait to get our hands on.

We don’t know any exact landing dates yet, but it should be arriving very soon this summer. In the mean time, lets get to know the all-new Ford Explorer!

Know Your Ford Explorer

1. More Choices For The Way You Drive

Ford has added two new model variants to the list. Customers can now choose between the performance driven Ford Explorer ST and the efficient Explorer Hybrid model. Each comes with their own respective set of great features and powertrains (including all-new rear-wheel drive), giving you the power of choice.

2. Brains and More Brains

Drivers these days need a vehicle that matches the way they drive and one that can tackle any adventure. With the all-new Terrain Management System, drivers can select up to seven different drive modes through a single easy-to-use dial in the center console. It also animates with special 3D graphics on the available 12.3-inch digital cluster. Drive modes include normal, trail, deep snow/sand, slippery, sport, tow/haul and new eco mode.

3. Smarter Technology

Connect, navigate and discover different worlds around you with Ford’s suite of smartphone apps, in-vehicle touchscreen and voice-activated technology.

  • Use onboard Wi-Fi with the FordPass Connect™,
  • Start your vehicle with the FordPass app,
  • Connect your “life” using SNYC® 3 with Apple CarPlay™ or Android Auto™,
  • Bring your surroundings to life with the amazing capabilities of Amazon Alexa using Ford+Alexa,
  • Navigate your adventure using Waze powered by SYNC 3.

4. Features That Matter

Inside the all-new redesigned Explorer, you’ll find features that just make the driving experience, well, better. Get the royal treatment with tri-Diamond perforated leather seating surfaces. Or sport a hexagon carbon-fiber-lined front dash. Plus, the 10.1-inch available LCD portrait touchscreen gives you tablet-like access to connectivity, while the largest ever twin-panel moonroof offers new world views from the first and second rows.

5. Confident Driving

Ford gives peace of mind while making driving easier and safer. For instance, Fords intelligent Co-Pilot360™ suite of driver assist features give you the power to drive with confidence whether its the auto high-beam headlamps, rear view camera, lane-keeping system, automatic emergency braking (AEB) or even BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert.

As we roll closer to the finish line (aka the Planet Ford dealership delivery date), we’ll throw up more info on the Explorer on our social channels. Moreover, follow us on social for all the latest updates and info regarding this and your favorite Ford vehicles.

Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Posted in All-New 2020 Ford Explorer, Ford, Ford Explorer | Tagged , , , , | Comments Off on 5 Awesome Things About The New 2020 Ford Explorer

Planet Ford Reminds Drivers of First Responder Awareness

Posted on June 7, 2019 by admin

We at Planet Ford in Spring (serving The Woodlands, Cypress, greater Houston, Conroe) greatly appreciate our first responders! Fire fighters with the Spring Fire Department are shooting commercials at our Planet Ford store to educate and remind drivers what to do when first responders are approaching with their emergency lights on. Planet Ford in Spring has teamed up with the Spring Fire Department to share the importance of the Move Over/Slow Down law.

Did you know car accidents occur more frequently in the summer?

Because of this, we want to remind drivers of the laws in place when it comes to first responders. If you see an emergency vehicle on the side of the road with the emergency lights on, remember the law: Move over, slow down.

The Texas Department of Public Safety states that the Move Over/Slow Down law requires drivers to move over or slow down in the case that emergency vehicles- including police, fire, EMS, Texas Department of Transportation vehicles and tow trucks- are stopped on the side of the road.

More specifically, the law states a driver must:

  • Vacate the lane that is closest to the applicable vehicles stopped on the side of the road (if it is a multilane road), or
  • Slow down to 20 miles below the posted speed limit (or to 5 mph if the speed limit is below 25 mph)

What about when an emergency vehicle is approaching?

David E. Persse, M.D., physician doctor for the City of Houston’s Emergency Medical Services, told the Texas Medical Center, “When you see an ambulance or any emergency vehicle approach you from behind, you should yield over to the right side of the street and come to a complete stop until the vehicle passes.” Dr. Persse added that if there is no room to move to the right, drivers should not proceed through the red light to make room for an ambulance, fire truck or other emergency vehicles.

“You really shouldn’t be pushed through a red light by an emergency vehicle from behind,” Dr. Persse said. “If the light is red and all the lanes are full, you have to wait until the light changes, and then you proceed and get over to the right as safely as you can.”

We want our Planet Ford customers to have a safe and fun summer. The Planet Ford team and the Spring Fire Department hope that you remember these laws the next time you see an emergency vehicle with its lights on. Remember: Move over, slow down. It’s the law.

Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Posted in Planet Ford Community | Tagged , , , | Comments Off on Planet Ford Reminds Drivers of First Responder Awareness

Spring ISD Announces Names of the New Stadium and Community Center

Posted on June 7, 2019 by admin

Planet Ford in Spring is excited to share this wonderful community news. Spring Independent School District and Randall Reed’s Planet Ford are pleased to announce an agreement naming the district’s new stadium Planet Ford Stadium, and the community center will be named Randall Reed Center.

Shawn Burns, Planet Ford general manager and partner, said, “The children are our future. Nothing is going to happen if there isn’t the young men and women who are going to come and fill the shoes of meetings like this or employees at Planet Ford.”

The stadium and community center is being built on a 117-acre parcel of land at 23802 Cypresswood Drive, only six miles away from the Planet Ford dealership. The stadium will feature a low-glare turf field, seating for 8,000 fans with great views from every seat, a state-of-the-art video scoreboard system, family-friendly concessions and modern press box amenities.

The Randall Reed Center, named after the owner of Planet Ford and World Class Automotive, will be a community room for up to 300 guests with options for catered meetings and events. The center will also serve as a memorial to honor the sacrifice of area service members.

Mr. Reed stated the decision to partner with Spring ISD on the new stadium and community center made sense, especially considering the organization’s long history in the Spring area. “Giving back to the community is a large part of what Reed Family Enterprises is all about. We are pleased to actively support a wide variety of local charities, and we’re definitely proud to support Spring Independent School District,” said Mr. Reed. “Since 1996, the Reed family has been privileged to support various school booster clubs and district events. We have also leveraged Spring ISD’s athletic digital signage to market Planet Ford in the past. As such, we are now honored and excited to expand our support of the district through this naming rights agreement.”

Mr. Reed said the naming rights arrangement will be a way to promote Planet Ford while continuing to support Spring ISD. The automotive dealership is already a big fan of the district’s teachers, donating a new vehicle and an all-expenses-paid cruise to educators at the annual Spring ISD Employee Recognition Banquet.

“We are excited and look forward to continuing our involvement for many years to come,” Mr. Reed said. Construction is expected to be completed in the fall. In the meantime, follow Planet Ford in Spring (serving greater Houston, Conroe, Aldine, Cypress) to follow along and stay up to date on all Planet Ford news.

Facebook Instagram Twitter

Posted in Planet Ford Community, Planet Ford in Spring, Planet Ford Spring, Spring ISD | Tagged , , | Comments Off on Spring ISD Announces Names of the New Stadium and Community Center

Ford Genius Aerodynamics Comes From Recycled Plastic

Posted on June 3, 2019 by admin

Planet Ford in Spring not only cares about our community and customers, we care about our environment too. Many of us have heard about the mounting plastic bottle concerns and know that recycling helps the environment. So, Ford is helping rev up new ways they can be used —  they are going into new Ford Vehicles. 

Ford uses about 1.2 billion recycled plastic bottles per year. That is 250 bottles per vehicle on average. These plastic bottles are used for underbody shields on all cars and SUVs, and wheel liners on F-Series trucks.

Aerodynamics has become a huge part of Ford designs, using recycled plastic bottles is both environmentally friendly and lightweight.

“The underbody shield is a huge part, and for a part that big, if we use solid plastic, it would likely weigh three times as much,” said Thomas Sweder, design engineer, Ford Motor Company. “We aim to find the most durable and highest performing materials to work with to make our parts, and in this case, we are also creating many environmental benefits.”

How Does it Work?

When plastic bottles are put into a recycling bin, they are collected with thousands of others and shredded into tiny pieces. That’s typically sold to suppliers who turn it into a fiber, by a process of melting the bottle and extruding it. Then the fibers are mixed together with other various types of fiber in a textile process and used to make a sheet of material that is then formed into the automotive parts.

Recycled plastic is ideal for the manufacture of underbody shields, engine under shield and front and rear wheel arch liners thanks to its lightweight, which can improve vehicle aerodynamics. For example on the all-new 2020 Ford Escape, these shields also help create a significantly quieter environment.

“Ford is among the leaders when it comes to using recycled materials such as this, and we do it because it makes sense technically and economically as much as it makes sense for the environment,” Sweder said. “This material meets all of our robust specifications for durability and performance.”

Ready to help do your part by selecting a new vehicle that is recycling and reusing for the betterment of our environment? Visit Planet Ford on I-45 at the Louetta exit (serving The Woodlands, Cypress, greater Houston, Aldine, Conroe, Tomball) or shop online anytime at PlanetFord45.com!

Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Posted in All-New 2020 Ford Escape, Ford | Tagged , , , | Comments Off on Ford Genius Aerodynamics Comes From Recycled Plastic

Save Big At Planet Ford’s Huge Memorial Day Sale

Posted on May 24, 2019 by admin

Ready for a New Ford or great used car? Now is a great time to buy and save BIG from Randall Reed, the Ford Whisperer at the newly renovated Planet Ford in Spring, TX (serving Houston, The Woodlands, Aldine, Cypress, Conroe) during our huge Memorial Day Weekend Sales Event! Take a Ford F-150, F-250, Mustang, Explorer, Fiesta, Fusion… for a test spin we have them all! Plus, ask about our special military and first responder programs*.  And check out our great deals on service all month long. 

Memorial Day Sale

Come see our huge selection and huge savings now through Memorial Day!

These deals won’t last long, so hurry in for the new or Certified Pre-Owned Ford vehicle of your dreams! With our newly renovated showroom and award-winning staff, Planet Ford in Spring is ready to help you into the Ford you’ve always wanted. Take the short drive on I-45 to the Louetta exit or browse our inventory online by visiting www.PlanetFord45.com.

*See dealer for details.

Posted in F-Series, Ford, Ford Edge, Ford Escape, Ford Expedition, Ford Explorer, ford f-150, Memorial Day, Memorial Day Sale | Tagged , , , , | Comments Off on Save Big At Planet Ford’s Huge Memorial Day Sale

5 Great Facts About The 2020 Ford Escape

Posted on May 17, 2019 by admin

At Planet Ford in Spring, we know great vehicles when we see them. That’s why we’re so excited for the all-new 2020 Ford Escape! The popular Escape is getting a makeover, and with that makeover comes new and exciting features that we can’t wait to share with you. We struggled to narrow down our extensive list of favorite features to just five, but we somehow managed and we’re here to present our list!

1. Escape Exterior Redesign

The all-new 2020 Escape was influenced by some other Ford favorites. For example, the Mustang influenced the shield-shaped trapezoidal grille for the Escape. The Escape also borrowed some design elements from the famous Ford GT as reflected in the lower front end of the Escape.

2. Spacious Second Row

Designers with Ford wanted the second row of the 2020 Escape to feel like a second row, not second class. Thus, it was imperative to them to design it in a way that would maximize space for the rear passengers without impeding on the cargo space. Featured in the all-new Escape will be a sliding second-row seat. This provides rear-seat passengers ample legroom, knee clearance, and foot length to ensure a more comfortable ride.

3. Copious Cargo Space

When the second-row seat is fully forward, the rear cargo space in the gas-powered models increases approximately 6 inches to 37.5 cubic feet.

Previously, driving a hybrid meant that you would lose cargo space to the battery. That is no longer the case, as the hybrid battery is now under the second-row seat, thus leaving your rear cargo area open for your needs. Designers of the 2020 Ford Escape constructed the vehicle to accommodate a foursome of golfers in the front, with each individual’s golf set in the rear.

4. Diverse Drive Modes

Ford’s newest SUV allows drivers to customize their driving experience to their desired mode or the conditions they may face. The five settings available are Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery and Snow/Sand driving.

Hybrid drivers can now experience the same benefits, as the all-new Escape offers four hybrid drive modes: Auto EV, EV Now, EV Later and EV Charge. The all-new EV Charge mode allows drivers to continue to charge the hybrid battery as they are driving and save the electric-only miles for a later time.

5. Titanium Technology

The 2020 Ford Escape Titanium models now feature an all-new heads-up display, a Ford first in North America. The heads-up display projects pertinent information onto a 6-inch screen that protrudes from the dashboard in front of the steering wheel. This technology allows drivers to receive key information, such as their speed, without taking their eyes off the road.

For obvious reasons, everyone here at Planet Ford in Spring (serving greater Houston, Cypress, The Woodlands and Conroe) are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the all-new Ford Escape. As we expect the 2020 Escape to arrive this fall, connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to stay tuned to the latest news.

Posted in All-New 2020 Ford Escape, Escape Hybrid, Ford Escape | Tagged , , , , , | Comments Off on 5 Great Facts About The 2020 Ford Escape

Ford Introduces Higher Performing All-New 2020 Ford Escape

Posted on April 3, 2019 by admin

Everyone here at Planet Ford loves new-car reveals, and this one definitely didn’t disappoint. Ford just announced the all-new 2020 Ford Escape. They are reinventing the model that helped drive the popularity of the segment with the SUV’s best-ever performance, flexibility and smart new technology.

Ford Escape Design

The all-new Escape is the most aerodynamic to date. Its sloped roofline, optimized liftgate spoiler and strake, and efficient underbody give it a refreshingly updated and futuristic look. Meanwhile, it loses more than 200 pounds from the current model, due in part to the extensive use of high-strength, lightweight steel.

“This all-new Escape brings a sleeker, sportier design with the capability to take you on just about any of your life’s adventures,” said Kumar Galhotra, Ford’s president, North America.

To create a sportier look for the all-new Escape, designers turned to some of the most high-profile sports cars in the Ford showroom. The shield-shaped trapezoidal grille is inspired by the sixth-generation Mustang, while the lower front end borrows from Ford GT. Compared to the current model, the all-new Escape stands lower, wider and longer.

Ford Escape Power

Every model in the lineup, whether powered by one of two EcoBoost® engines or the all-new hybrid powertrains, targets an EPA-estimated range of at least 400 miles per tank.** The standard hybrid with front-wheel drive targets best-in-class EPA-estimated range of more than 550 miles.*

Best-performing Escape ever

New powertrains and transmission systems, a reduction in weight, improved aerodynamics and updated suspension system all contribute to one undeniable fact: this is the best-performing, most fun-to-drive Escape ever.

Gas engine-powered models as well as the standard hybrid are available with all-wheel drive. EcoBoost-equipped models get a new quick-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission for smooth, responsive shifting, while every Escape receives an all-new suspension and improved isolation with a new isolated rear subframe.

“This new vehicle performs like no other Escape before,” said Jim Hughes, Escape chief program engineer. “It’s quick, it’s responsive and, in staying true to the standard set by three generations of Escapes before it, it’s a heck of a lot of fun to drive.”

The new 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, available on Titanium, is projected to produce 250 horsepower and 275 lb.-ft. of torque using 93 octane fuel, while turning in a 0-60 mph time up to 10 percent faster than the outgoing Escape 2.0-liter. When properly configured, it is rated to tow 3,500 pounds.***

The all-new 1.5-liter EcoBoost, standard on S, SE and SEL, is projected to produce 180 horsepower and 177 lb.-ft. of torque using 93 octane fuel. When properly configured, it is rated to tow 2,000 pounds.*** To help conserve fuel, the 1.5-liter EcoBoost debuts cylinder deactivation, a Ford first for North America, which senses when one cylinder isn’t needed and shuts it down automatically. The system can activate or deactivate a cylinder in 14 milliseconds to maintain a smooth ride.

SE Sport and Titanium models come standard with Ford’s innovative fourth-generation hybrid propulsion system, which includes an all-new 2.5-liter Atkinson cycle hybrid engine and electronic continuously variable transmission. The front-wheel-drive hybrid model is projected to produce a combined system horsepower of 198, and a top speed of 85 mph in electric-only mode.

The 2020 Ford Escape brings two hybrid choices:

  • standard hybrid
  • plug-in hybrid

“With our class-leading hybrid powertrains, customers will spend less time at the gas station and more time on the road,” said Galhotra.

The plug-in hybrid variant, available on every trim level except S and SE Sport, projects a best-in-class EPA-estimated range of at least 30 miles in electric-only mode. Escape Plug-In Hybrid has a Level 1 / Level 2 AC charging port. Using a 110-volt Level 1 charge, the estimated time to fully charge the battery is 10 to 11 hours. Using a 240-volt Level 2 charge, charge time drops to roughly 3.5 hours.

Hybrid models feature four EV modes that allow customers to select the settings most suitable for their individual needs. This means:

  • In Auto EV mode, the vehicle decides whether to run on gas or electric power
  • In EV Now mode, drivers can operate on all-electric driving
  • In EV Later mode, drivers can switch to full gas-powered driving to conserve electric miles for later
  • In all-new EV Charge mode, drivers can continue to charge the battery while driving and generate electric-only miles to use later

Ford’s newest SUV revamp isn’t slated to arrive until this fall. But that doesn’t mean we can’t drool over the features and pictures reveal thus far! Our team will continue the Escape reveal with its tech section up next. If you’re an auto-tech junkie, you’re going to fall in love with with what the all-new Escape has to offer. In the meantime, checkout the Escape Hybrid B-roll!

*Actual range will vary. Final EPA-estimated ratings available later in the 2019 calendar year. Class is Small Utility over 4480 mm length based on Ford Segmentation.

**Actual range will vary.  Model designations are based on powertrain, drivetrain, and trim level combinations. Final EPA-estimated ratings available later in the 2019 calendar year.

***Horsepower, torque, payload, towing and EPA Estimated Fuel Economy Ratings are independent attributes and may not be achieved simultaneously.
Posted in All-New 2020 Ford Escape, Escape Hybrid, Ford Escape | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Ford Introduces Higher Performing All-New 2020 Ford Escape

Ford Gives Ranger New Black Appearance Package

Posted on March 25, 2019 by admin

At Planet Ford in Spring, Texas (serving The Woodlands, Aldine, Cypress, greater Houston), we know that our customers want cars, trucks and SUVs that fit not only their lifestyle but their individual style. Our location offers aftermarket services to meet those needs. And now Ford Motor Company is offering a new packet on its 2019 Ford Ranger. Those who are wanting a unique and sleek-looking Ranger, check out the new Black Appearance Package.

“Like the rest of their gear, Ranger customers are choosing the option that best fits their adventures,” said Todd Eckert, Ford truck group marketing manager. “Having the right gear matters and so does the right look. The Black Appearance Package adds aggressive style to the adventures our customers embark on.”

Available with any Ranger body color, the Black Appearance Package’s aggressive look will help the truck stand out on the beach or in the backcountry. Its standard features include:

  • Black-painted grille
  • Body-color bumpers
  • High-gloss black-painted 18-inch aluminum wheels with black center caps
  • Black running boards
  • Black spray-in bed liner
  • Black fender vent surround
  • Black mirrors
  • Black sill plate
  • Black bash plate on FX4 Off-Road Package
  • Black lower valance

The Ford Ranger Black Appearance Package is available as an option for $1,995 (excludes taxes). It can be ordered at Planet Ford now, with deliveries targeted to begin in early summer.

For more information about this package or any other Ranger appearance package available, please come see us at Planet Ford (serving The Woodlands, Aldine, Cypress, greater Houston). We’d be happy to show you what’s available from Ford. Follow us on social to get up-to-date Ford news you can use.

Facebook Instagram Twitter

Posted in Black Appearance Package, Ford Ranger | Tagged , , , , | Comments Off on Ford Gives Ranger New Black Appearance Package

Spring Break Super Sale At Planet Ford In Spring

Posted on March 6, 2019 by admin

It’s Spring Break at Planet Ford in Spring, Texas! We are “sale’abrating” with tons of great savings on new Ford trucks, SUVs, cars and service!

Right now with Truck Month upon us, we have many models and trim levels of Ford trucks available. And when we say many, we many MANY. Come choose the one the expresses you. You can find the perfect match.

Super Duty Savors

Planet Ford deals on F-Series pickups

The Ford Super Duty is designed for what ever job you throw at it. Planet Ford has over 300 models to choose from, giving you plenty of options to find that custom feel for you. There’s a reason F-Series has been #1 for over 4 decades!

SUV Specials

Need enough space for the whole family? Ford SUVs are great for road trips or even just the weekend warrior looking to get into some much needed adventure. Find specials on America’s best-selling SUV, the Ford Explorer and Ford’s largest and roomiest SUV, the Ford Expedition right here at Planet Ford.

Ford’tastic Car Offers

Just imagine the top down as you drive into a your spring vacation. You’ll need a set of wheels that can meet all the demands of fun, as well as your expectations. Insert the almighty Ford Mustang. And when equipped with Ford’s EcoBoost engine, you’ll be able to go further when it matters most.

Or if you’re in need of a car that is a real go getter, take the Ford Focus or Fusion for a test drive. Needing a more fam friendly approach? Ford Taurus might be just what you’re looking for. No matter what life situation you find yourself in, Ford makes the perfect vehicle for you.

Spring Service

Before you head out for your much-needed getaway, let our team check out your Ford to ensure it is road-trip worthy. Right now, we are offering free tire, brake and battery checks. Need an oil change or other maintenance, make sure to visit our Service Saving Coupons.

Break away from the daily and head on over to Planet Ford (serving greater Houston, The Woodlands, Cypress, Conroe) for the best Spring Break has to offer–a new Ford! Shop our entire inventory online or just come out and see us. We will be more than happy to show you around and tell you about all of our amazing offers we currently have.

Posted in Ford Edge, Ford Expedition, Ford Explorer, ford f-150, Ford Focus, ford fusion, Ford Truck Month | Tagged , , , | Comments Off on Spring Break Super Sale At Planet Ford In Spring

Celebrating February 2019 Anniversaries & Birthdays

Posted on March 4, 2019 by admin

This week, Planet Ford in Spring, Texas celebrated our wonderful team members with anniversaries and birthdays in February. Shawn Burns, General Manager/Operating Partner, presented Patrick Huygen with a special gift to celebrate a big milestone–10 service years at Planet Ford. 

Mr. Burns also recognized Josephat Rios as the Employee of Month for February.  Congratulations on achieving this hard-earned honor. Each employee received a free spin and chance to win some extra cash by taking a turn at the Planet Ford Money Wheel, a long-standing tradition at our dealership. Thank you to all of our employees for your hard work daily to help make Planet Ford the best dealership around!

Anniversaries
Jeffrey Edwards
Patrick Huygen
Noel Prout
Jennifer Stout
Noemi Escalante
Jon Martin
Christopher Dean
Bradley Stapp
Navin Garcia
Schyler Prentice
Deshawn Tolliver Allen
Jose Esquivel
Dianelly Montero
Anthony Berton
Gerardo Rosales Ortega
Josaphat Rios
Luis Gonzalez 		Birthdays
Silvana Casares
Nathaniel Gordon
George Adams
John Dvorak
Armando Diaz
Shawn Burns
Max Pocasangre
Ziad Fatayergi
Noemi Escalante
Richard Romero
Schyler Prentice
Ricardo Aguinaga
Josue Coronado
Rodolfo Jaimes
Crystal Carrizales
Jessika Rivera
Eric Shedd 
Posted in Planet Ford Team | Comments Off on Celebrating February 2019 Anniversaries & Birthdays