DEARBORN, Mich., Aug. 2, 2002 – Ford is upping the ante in the diesel truck market with best-in-class 560 ft.-lbs. of torque at 2,000 rpm on its all-new Power Stroke® Diesel engine and five-speed TorqShift® automatic transmission. This is an increase of 10 ft.-lbs. since its pre-introduction in May.

Available early next year in Ford’s F-Series Super Duty trucks and Excursion SUV models, the all-new powertrain also will produce best-in-class 325 hp at 3,300 rpm.

“Ford has been the proven diesel leader since we introduced the Power Stroke eight years ago and we intend to remain the leader,” said Steve Lyons, Ford Division president. “Our customers need the power to get any job done and that’s exactly what the new powertrain will deliver.”

More torque allows a diesel engine to move or tow heavier loads, while enhancing the vehicle’s performance feel. It also allows drivers to maintain speed without frequent transmission shifting, easily launch highly loaded trucks from rest, and maintain speed while negotiating steep grades.