Ford Press Release: Ford Expedition Carves Out New Territory

05/13/96

1997 FORD EXPEDITION CARVES OUT NEW TERRITORY

KANSAS CITY, Mo., May 9 -- The 1997 Ford Expedition,
the all-new, full-size, four-door, nine-passenger utility vehicle that
fits easily into standard-size garages, was revealed today at Ford's
annual stockholders meeting.

Expedition offers best-in-class towing, payload and highway fuel
economy.

"The 1997 Ford Expedition has all the versatility and flexibility
that consumers demand of their utility vehicles without compromising
room, ride and comfort," said Ross Roberts, Ford vice president and
general manager of Ford Division.  "Expedition was engineered for
families with active lifestyles who want comfort and style along with
utility and off-road ruggedness."

With its list of standard safety equipment, the Ford Expedition is
an industry standout.  Standard driver- and passenger-side air bags, a
first for domestic full-sized utility vehicles, are included.

In addition, Expedition features standard four-wheel anti-lock
brakes, child safety locks on second-row doors, passive anti-theft
system (PATS) and adjustable height shoulder belts for better seat
comfort.  Expedition's overall size, command seating position and ride
height also contribute to driver and passenger safety.

"Expedition will fill a variety of needs customers want in one
vehicle," said Jim Englehart, vice president of the Ford Light Truck
Vehicle Center.  "Overall, these needs include value, safety and
quality.  We intend to be the full-size utility vehicle to offer
'no-compromises.'"

Providing a combination of power and best-in-class highway fuel
economy are two of Ford's Triton V-8 truck engines.  The 4.6-liter V-8,
generating 215 horsepower and 290 foot-pounds of torque, is standard.
For even more power, a 5.4-liter V-8 is optional.  It generates 230 h.p.
and 325 ft.-lbs. of torque.

With the high-powered, high-tech 5.4-liter V-8 engine, Expedition
can tow up to 8,000 pounds and has a maximum payload of 2,000 pounds,
both larger than any other full-size utility vehicle under 8,500 pounds.

The Ford Expedition has a new short/long arm (SLA) fully independent
front suspension.  The SLA suspension is a key element in providing the
vehicle's comfortable ride and precise handling while reducing tire wear
and improving vehicle traction and performance.

Additionally, the Expedition has a 119-inch wheelbase with ample
space for up to nine passengers with an optional third-row seat.  With
the second-row seat folded and the third-row seat removed, Expedition
offers 115 cubic feet of cargo space.  With an overall length of 204.6
inches, Expedition easily fits into standard-sized garages.

The Ford Expedition's wider rear doors offer best-in-class entry and
exit space to the second- and third-row seats.  Illuminated running
boards are available.

Expedition's standard features include speed-dependent windshield
wipers, speed-sensitive steering, an accessory delay, a battery saver
feature and two remote entry key fobs.

Expedition's options also include a host of other features customers
want, such as power outside signal mirrors, power rear quarter windows,
rear auxiliary climate control, a driver-accessible multi-CD changer and
17-inch wheels for 4x4 models.

The four-door Expedition, available in 4x4 and 4x2 drive
configurations, includes the XLT and Eddie Bauer models.

Expedition is expected to appeal to four different kinds of
customers:

*  Owners of compact sport utilities who are looking for more room
or greater towing and cargo capabilities,

*  Passenger car and van owners who want the sporty style of a
utility vehicle along with the refinements of a luxury car,

*  Owners of large utility vehicles who want easier passenger
accessibility and more comfort, and

*  Traditional commercial utility owners who need a rugged passenger
mover with high payload capacity.