Ford Division Launches New Internet Website
13 October 1998
Ford Division Launches New Internet Website
At http://www.fordvehicles.com, the Focus is on Products
DETROIT, Oct. 13 -- Ford Division has launched an updated
automotive website offering consumers an inside-out view of the Division's
wide range of cars and trucks.
At http://www.fordvehicles.com, visitors can take a Quick-Time video tour of each
vehicle and get updated information on pricing and products using easy-to-use
navigation tools.
"Because we respect our customers' time, we designed our new website to be
as fast and convenient as possible," said Ford Division marketing
communications manager Jan Klug. "We think people appreciate a 'no fuss, no
muss' approach, so we're concentrating on providing compelling, accurate
information that will help customers make smart decisions when they buy their
next car or truck."
Ford Division's down-to-earth "Storytelling" advertising campaign,
featuring actor John Corbett and country superstar Alan Jackson, will be a
common thread on the new website. Visitors will even get to tell their own
stories about their much-loved cars and trucks that have been inducted into
the 100,000 mile club.
"By including some fun, interactive elements, and changing them regularly,
we hope to encourage people to drop in from time to time to see what's new,"
Klug said.
Mustang Mania's Home on the Web
Fordvehicles.com also features a link to the popular Mustang Heritage
website (http://www.fordheritage.com/mustang), an interactive destination
spotlighting the Mustang's 35-year history.
Visitors enter the site through an animated splash tunnel displaying six
Mustangs, starting with the 1964 Mustang convertible. Each vehicle navigates
to a new area: an interactive timeline; the assembly plant, where visitors can
design their own 1966 Mustang; racing, merchandise and links to other hot
spots.
All of the features will be updated regularly. For example, as time goes
on, visitors to the assembly plant will be able to create a variety of hardtop
and convertible Mustangs. In November, the all-new 1999 Mustang will be
available.
Mustang lovers can participate in the online Route 35 sweepstakes.
Participants must unscramble clues about the Mustang to win the sweepstakes,
which runs through November 16, 1998. The grand prize winner receives a 1999
Mustang GT. Another 50 first place winners will receive a Mustang coffee
table book and 1,000 second place winners will receive a Mustang poster.
Designed for Usability
The new Ford Division site was designed based on consumer research, which
indicated people want easy-to-understand navigation tools and detailed product
information. Visitors can check out a variety of customer-friendly subject
areas as the site continues to expand and add new features:
Vehicle Information: The most visited area on the site. Learn more about
any vehicle's exterior and interior features, performance, safety and
security, plus specifications and accessories. Quick-Time video will be
included with each vehicle section with a 360-degree view of all interiors and
exteriors. Links to relevant content pages will be included.
Ford Store: Purchase Ford-branded apparel and merchandise such as hats
and t-shirts on-line. Mustang merchandise will be available in the Heritage
area in October, with a full line of Ford merchandise on-line in November.
On-Line Shopping: Choose a dealer, get the specs on a vehicle, apply for
credit and request a quote -- all from the comfort of home.
Promotions and Contests: A variety of vehicle and Ford Credit contests
and events will be highlighted in this area. This month, a '99 Mustang trivia
contest and a Truck Season song writing contest are featured.
Eye on Ford: Get the latest Ford Division vehicle and community affairs
news. Stories will be continuously updated and streaming video will be
utilized. Plans call for live events in 1999.
Motorsports: Click here to link to updates on racing teams and
biographies of drivers. Audio and video of racing highlights are planned for
1999.
Matchmaker: Answer a few questions about your lifestyle and interests,
and this interactive new service will serve up a selection of Ford cars and
trucks tailored to you.