est truck manufacturer and the Number 2 maker of cars and trucks combined, behind General Motors. Ford is also the world's most profitable automaker, with $7.2 billion in net income from continuing operations in 1999. The company also owns a controlling stake (33.4%) in Japanese automaker, Mazda. STRATEGIEStopTH!NK City is the new name for the battery-powered electric vehicle that has been specially created for fleet and individual customers looking for urban transportation experiences. Ford is the only automaker to dedicate an independent brand to a full line of environmentally responsible products, to include battery and fuel cell electric technology. ConsumerConnect is the name of Ford's global e-business unit that is reinventing Ford Motor Company.ConsumerConnect is a Web-based exchange venture between Ford, GM, and DaimlerChrysler which will go public sometime after it is in full operation. The on-line marketplace allows manufacturers to electronically streamline the procurement process, to collaborate electronically with suppliers on component and process designs and to lower transaction costs between buyer and seller.E-commerce initiatives to attract target consumers and enhance the purchase experience include a partnership with Microsoft in MS Carpoint, where consumers can shop for a car or truck online. A number of strategic alliances with companies such as Bolt.com, Digital Entertainment Network and iVillage.com are helping Ford to build brands in environments that are exciting and inviting to the consumer.Owner loyalty is built through initiatives such as a strategic partnership with Yahoo!, allowing owners to create personal auto data pages, where they can manage vehicle maintenance records online. Plans are also under way to introduce Internet connectivity into Ford Motor Company vehicles, providing customers with a variety of safety features as well as audio e-mail, information and entertainment right in the vehicle. ADVER...
