Ford and SHFT.com Encourage Sustainability with New Documentary Series

PARK CITY, Utah, Jan. 25, 2012 – Ford Motor Company reveals new details about its exclusive collaboration with SHFT.com, announcing an inspiring documentary series featuring innovative leaders who are shaping sustainable businesses and influencing positive change around the world. The first set of films – directed by Gilly Barnes and executive-produced by Adrian Grenier and Peter Glatzer, SHFT cofounders – are scheduled for release in spring 2012.

 

The automotive leader and the award-winning multimedia platform, founded by actor and filmmaker Grenier and film producer Glatzer, recently joined forces to inspire people to make smarter environmental decisions through film, design, art, transportation and culture. This unique series of digital shorts marks their first collaboration together and highlights leading influencers from industries such as sustainable fashion and transport to advanced upcycling and smart plastics.

 

“Our goal is to provide the vehicles and resources to help people live more sustainable lives,” said John Viera, director of Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering, Ford Motor Company. “We are working with organizations such as SHFT because they share a similar philosophy – looking at the small and large actions that can make a real difference in a creative and authentic way, which is part of Ford’s commitment to allow people to choose which fuel-efficient and green solution works best for them.”

 

As part of Ford’s mission to accelerate the development of more fuel-efficient and alternative-fuel vehicles, the company is teaming up with SHFT.com to put the power in the hands of millions of Americans who are interested in being more eco-conscious and saving money.

 

“SHFT.com celebrates businesses where great design, sustainability and innovation meet, which is why we are so excited to be forging this relationship with Ford,” said Grenier.

 

“Shared core values are at the heart of our collaboration,” adds Glatzer. “Our common goal is to present the best sustainable options to the conscious consumer in an inspiring and entertaining way and to embrace the individualistic choices people need to make.”

 

Together, Ford and SHFT are collaborating on a variety of programs to inspire and invite consumers to take a more sustainable approach in life. This includes developing creative content, such as a short documentary series, as well as live-event programs and film festivals to further spread their shared mission.

 

Ford’s power of choice

Selecting the right vehicle is a significant decision for individuals seeking greener lifestyles or just looking to save money when driving. In a recent national survey, Ford found nearly half of Americans are confused when it comes to green vehicle options, with 46 percent not knowing the difference between a hybrid, plug-in hybrid or electric vehicle. Ford aims to help address this confusion in the marketplace through its collaboration with SHFT.com and its power of choice philosophy.

 

Ford believes in the power of choice – offering customers a range of fuel-efficient vehicles is the best way to reduce CO₂ emissions while still meeting the various needs of individuals. In line with this philosophy, Ford is delivering a range of eco-friendly driving options, spanning both traditional gas-powered vehicles and electrified vehicles.

 

Green driving leadership

Ford technologies such as EcoBoost^™, flex-fuel powertrains and hybrid batteries give consumers access to a variety of vehicles that promise function and style while making driving a greener and more affordable experience.

 

Electrification has an important role in the company’s overall product sustainability strategy, with Ford offering – or soon offering – six new electrified vehicles: Focus Electric, Fusion Hybrid, Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid, C-MAX Hybrid, C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid and Transit Connect Electric.

 

Overall, Ford Motor Company will offer nine vehicles this year expected to achieve a fuel efficiency rating of 40 mpg or higher. The list consists of the six new electrified vehicles already named along with Focus SFE, Fiesta SFE and Lincoln MKZ Hybrid.

 

“Ford is excited to be collaborating with innovators at SHFT to develop real solutions to help consumers live a more sustainable lifestyle,” said Viera.