Ford Finds an Unlikely Partner in Sustainability

PEKIN, Ill., – Ford Motor Company has been a long time proponent for the use of sustainable materials in the auto industry. They began researching such ideas back in 2000 and have since implemented eight sustainable materials in their vehicles and products. Now Ford has found an unlikely partner in sustainability with the tequila industry: Jose Cuervo.

Most people are unaware of agricultural by-products and the ways they can be recycled. The agriculture industry creates 5 billion metric tons of waste every year, lots of which could be put to use in other industries.

“At Ford, we aim to reduce our impact on the environment,” said Ford senior technical leader of the sustainability research department, Debbie Mielewski. “As a leader in the sustainability space, we are developing new technologies to efficiently employ discarded materials and fibers, while potentially reducing the use of petrochemicals and light-weighting our vehicles for desired fuel economy.”

Ford has decided to team up with Jose Cuervo, the tequila distributor, to begin using some of the by-products produced by the Agave plant during the tequila making process. The left over plant fibers are already used as a fertilizer on the Agave farms, and by local artisans, and could potentially be used as a bioplastic for the interior and exterior of Ford vehicles. The pseudo plastic being created would be much lighter than regular plastic, improving vehicle efficiency.

Velde Ford is proud to support such sustainable practices in the auto industry and is happy to announce that Ford has found an unlikely partner in sustainability. We would like to encourage everyone to recycle and reuse as much of your everyday waste as possible. To learn more about Ford’s partnership with Jose Cuervo click here.

If you’d like to support a company that supports the environment, head down to Velde Ford Pekin and test-drive a new vehicle today! We have tons of new and used vehicles available to lease or to purchase! Our sales team would be happy to help you find the best car for your needs!

Located at 2200 North 8th Street, Pekin, IL 61554, Velde Ford of Pekin is committed to providing customers outstanding service. We want you to enjoy your car buying experience. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to stop by the dealership or visit our website at www.VeldeFordPekin.com. You can also reach us at (888) 221-2804. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

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How to Play Pokémon Go Safely

PEKIN, Ill., – You’ve probably noticed an increased number of people wandering the streets of Pekin in the last few weeks. Pokémon Go has taken the world by storm and even begun to spark controversies. We’re here to provide you with some tips for how to play Pokémon Go safely! If you play, you’ve surely seen the warning at the beginning of the game to remain aware of your surroundings, but we’ve got some even better ideas.

Tips for playing Pokémon Go Safely…

On Foot
The idea of the game is to get players active in the real world. By walking to Pokés tops and gyms, you have the chance to hatch your eggs and catch some Pokémon on the way to your destinations. Poké stops and gyms are usually located in highly populated areas, so it’s important that you be aware of your surroundings. 

• Watch for traffic when crossing streets. 
• Don’t walk along busy roads where there are no sidewalks, especially at night. (You’re unlikely to find good stuff here anyway) 
• Don’t play alone, especially in areas you are unfamiliar with or at night. It’s more fun to play with a friend. 
• Be aware of the general public and those not on their phones. Look up to avoid bumping into to people or being rude. 

On Bike
While biking is a great way to get exercise, it’s not the safest way to catch ‘em all. You can download maps of your area to find out where poke stops are located near you. This will allow you to plan your Poké-venture accordingly.

• Don’t look at your phone while riding! You can leave the app open in your pocket so GPS can locate you for egg hatching purposes, but please don’t try to catch that weedle while you’re also trying to steer your bike. It’s not worth it. 
• Be aware of traffic! This is always important when you’re riding your bike. Again, don’t try to play between destinations. 
• Be aware of your surroundings and your belongings once you’ve reached your location. Don’t leave your bike or personal items unattended. 

DON’T POKEMON GO AND DRIVE
Don’t text and drive, don’t change the music and drive, don’t Pokémon Go and drive! Distracted driving puts you and everyone around you at risk! It can wait until you get there. If you absolutely feel the need to travel for your Pokémon Go adventures, plan your stops according to the map in your area and don’t play in between! Store your phone where you won’t be tempted to use it!

We hope our tips inspire you to be the safest, smartest trainer of them all. If you have any tips for how to play Pokémon Go safely, be sure to share them with us in the comments. If you are in need of a new ride to get you to those trainer meet-ups around town, head over to Velde Ford and one of our trained sales professionals will help you find the right new or used vehicle to match your specific needs. Don’t forget you can schedule your routine maintenance with our Velde Ford Service Center as well!

Located at 2200 North 8th Street, Pekin, IL 61554, Velde Ford of Pekin is committed to providing Pokémon trainers outstanding service. We want you to enjoy your car buying experience. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to stop by the dealership or visit our website at www.VeldeFordPekin.com. You can also reach us at (888) 221-2804. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

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Ford’s New Robotic Technology

PEKIN, Ill., – It’s 2016 and robots are no longer a futuristic possibility, but a reality in the pharmaceutical and electronics industries, and now the automotive industry. Ford’s new robotic technology known as collaborative robots, or co-bots, has been implemented to help assist factory workers on the assembly line.

Co-bot Technology…

Eases difficulty of tasks
Co-bots don’t have human strength restrictions, meaning they are able to assist in completing tasks that would be arduous to factory workers.

Improves safety of workers
Co-bots are capable of sensing the smallest object in their path, including arms and fingers, to improve worker safety conditions.

Enhances speed of tasks
Co-bot technology complements the already skilled workers. Instead of manually lifting and positioning parts, the robots can swiftly lift and place heavy objects, increasing speed on the assembly line.

As well as assisting workers in their day-to-day tasks, collaborative robots are also a huge testament to the leaps and bounds Ford is making to progress automotive industry technology. The trial introduction of the co-bots at Ford’s Cologne, Germany assembly plant is being used as research to pinpoint operations that would be best completed by the new robotic technology. With the implementation of this exciting new technology, Ford hopes to continue the progressive movement and enhance productivity and safety in all of its plants around the world.

Ford’s new robotic technology is changing the way cars are produced. What do you think about robots working in factories? We think this forward momentum is just what the auto industry needs! The Ford SYNC technology in your Ford vehicle isn’t quite as advanced as the co-bot technology, but it can still do some pretty awesome stuff. If you want to learn more about Ford SYNC and all of your vehicle’s capabilities, be sure to check out our Ford SYNC Technology page at Velde Ford Pekin!

Located at 2200 North 8th Street, Pekin, IL 61554, Velde Ford of Pekin is committed to providing customers outstanding service. We want you to enjoy your car buying experience. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to stop by the dealership or visit our website at www.VeldeFordPekin.com. You can also reach us at (888) 221-2804. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

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Tips for Keeping Your Dog Cool

PEKIN, Ill., – We know that summer can get hot in Pekin. Have you considered what this means for your four-legged friends? We’ve taken the time to give you some tips for keeping your dog cool this summer. It’s important to take care of yourself in the heat, but it’s just as important to make sure your pets are safe and comfortable too!

Fun Ways to Stay Cool

• Give your pup a fun place to cool off by providing him with a kiddie pool to splash in! They’re relatively small and inexpensive and can give your dog a place to cool off from the sun.
• You can make your own pupsicles by freezing a hard biscuit in an ice cube tray, or find a doggie ice cream recipe like these ones to make a cool treat for your pup.
• If your dog likes to swim, find a dog friendly beach nearby and take them for a dip! Swimming will allow them to exercise without getting overheated.

Doggie Dos For Summer Heat

• Always have a cool place available for your pet to rest. If you’re outside this could just be a shady spot for them to lie. In the house it could be as simple as a tile floor. If there aren’t any particularly cool places inside, you can provide them with a chilled towel to rest on.
• Always have water available wherever you are! Keep your dog’s water dish full and fresh at all times and be sure to bring water on walks and car trips. Remember to have a place for them to get a drink outside too.

Doggie Don’ts for Summer Heat

• Don’t shave your dog! It may seem like all that fur is causing them to overheat, but really it provides insulation to regulate body temperature. If you shave them too short, they could overheat more quickly, or even get sunburned.
• Don’t walk or exercise your dog during the hot afternoon hours. Go for walks in the morning or the evening when it’s cooler. If it’s too hot, skip the walk for that day.

We hope these tips for keeping your dog cool this summer will help you keep your pets more comfortable in the heat! One last reminder from Velde Ford Pekin, never leave your dog unattended in a vehicle! Even with the windows down it can be way too hot inside your car for your dog! Leave your pet at home where it’s cool!

Do you know about the cool features your Ford vehicle has with Ford SYNC technology? Check out our Ford Technology page to read about the capabilities your car has! From safety to connectivity, stay up to date and learn what your car can do for you!

Located at 2200 North 8th Street, Pekin, IL 61554, Velde Ford of Pekin is committed to providing customers outstanding service. We want you to enjoy your car buying experience. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to stop by the dealership or visit our website at www.VeldeFordPekin.com. You can also reach us at (888) 221-2804. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

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Ford Super Duty – Smart Driver Assist Technologies

PEKIN, Ill., – The all-new 2017 Ford Super Duty is here and it’s ready to make a statement. Ford is giving drivers the control they want with the new Ford Super Duty – smart driver assist technologies. New features include:

• Adaptive cruise control and collision warning
• Adaptive Steering
• Blind Spot Information System with trailer coverage
• BoxLink with locking cleats
• Trailer Camera
• Inflatable rear outboard safety belts
• Multicontour front seats
• Power-deployable running boards
• PowerScope power-telescoping and power-folding trailer tow mirrors
• Remote tailgate release
• Flat load floor
• Stowable loading ramps
• SYNC 3
• Tailgate step
• Trailer Reverse Guidance
• Trailer tire pressure monitoring
• Utility lighting system

These adaptive technologies were designed to help drivers stay in control on their truck, even when towing up to 31,500 pounds. The adaptive cruise control allows drivers to set following distance and speed. If traffic slows down, the truck automatically adjusts to its preset following distance. This also helps drivers maintain their speed, even while they are towing large amounts up hill. Adaptive steering control changes the amount of steering input needed according to the speed of the vehicle. This makes for a more controlled and maneuverable steering experience.

As well as the adaptive driving technologies, the new Super Duty comes with many safety technology features like the back up camera and Blind Spot Information System. It also offers drivers a world of connectivity with Ford SYNC 3.

The 2017 Ford Super Duty will be available later this year.

Have confidence in your truck with the 2017 Ford Super Duty – smart driver assist technologies! If you’re curious about your current Ford vehicle technology, read our latest Ford SYNC page at VeldeFordPekin.com! You can learn about what your vehicle is capable of and all of the latest updates!

Located at 2200 North 8th Street, Pekin, IL 61554, Velde Ford of Pekin is committed to providing customers outstanding service. We want you to enjoy your car buying experience. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to stop by the dealership or visit our website at www.VeldeFordPekin.com. You can also reach us at (888) 221-2804. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

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10 Clever Camping Tips

PEKIN, Ill., – Are you planning a camping trip this summer? The nice weather presents a great opportunity to get outside and enjoy the season! Make your camping time more convenient with our list of 10 clever camping tips.

1. Toothpaste Dots

Rather than packing the entire tube of toothpaste, make small toothpaste dots by squeezing the toothpaste onto wax paper or tinfoil. Allow them to dry a few days before you leave and pack them in a smaller container.

2. DIY Fire Starters

Don’t throw away the dryer lint! Put it inside of empty toilet paper tubes and use it to start your campfires.

3. Store Plastic Cutlery and Napkins

Use a recycled drink holder to store your napkins and plastic silverware. This will keep you more organized!

4. Store Matches in a Mason Jar

Before heading into the wilderness, transfer matches from their original cardboard box, into a mason jar. Buy strike anywhere matches and glue a piece of sandpaper to the lid for easy lighting. This will keep your matches safe and dry.

5. Gallon Jug Lamp

Use a gallon jug filled with water and a headlamp to create a lamp for your tent or table area. The water reflects the headlamp to create more ambient light.

6. Pre-whisk Eggs

Save yourself some trouble at mealtime by whisking your scrambled eggs at home. Transport them in a plastic container for convenience. This also saves you from broken eggs in the cooler.

7. Store Snacks in Plastic Containers

Rather than bringing the whole bag or box of snacks, store snacks in plastic containers. This keeps food fresh and dry, and combats crunching!

8. Collapsible Trash Can

A collapsible mesh laundry basket makes a great trash can. Line the basket with a trash bag and to keep your trash receptacle accessible and contained.

9. 2-Liter Toilet Paper Holder

To keep your toilet paper dry, transform a 2-liter plastic bottle into a toilet paper holder. Just cut off the bottom, insert the roll, and pop the bottom back on!

10. Prepare Salad in To-Go Cups

For a quick campsite lunch, prepare chopped salad at home before you leave and store the salads in plastic to-go cups. This will keep your salad fresh and the straw hole makes a nice fork holder!

We think our list of 10 clever camping tips will help your camping trip be the most convenient one yet! If we missed any important tips, be sure to let us know! If you want to stay connected during your travels, be sure to utilize Ford SYNC! Check out our newest Ford SYNC Technology page to better understand the technologies your Ford vehicle is capable of.

At Velde Ford, we're committed to providing our customers with an unbeatable level of service and a great car buying experience. Stop by the dealership located at 2200 North 8th Street, Pekin, IL 61554 or visit our website: VeldeFordPekin.com for more information.

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Downloadable 2016 Ford Flex Brochure

PEKIN, Ill., – Check out everything the 2016 Ford Flex has to offer when you download the 2016 Ford Flex electronic brochure. Ford’s functional crossover brings you the style you want, and the technologies you need to stay connected.

Downloadable 2016 Ford Flex Brochure

With Ford SYNC technology, you can always stay connected in your 2016 Ford Flex. From hands-free calling to easy navigation, you’ll never want to leave your car! SYNC allows you to connect your devices and play music. It can even call 911 for you in the case of an emergency.

Drive comfortably with the whole family in the 2016 Ford Flex. This spacious crossover seats up to 7 people. With adjustable seating options and storage features, you’ll always have the space and comfort you need to get you where you’re going. To get more info, read the downloadable 2016 Ford Flex brochure.

We want your driving experience to be the best one possible! Head down to Velde Ford Pekin to buy or lease your new 2016 Ford Flex. Located at 2200 North 8th Street, Pekin, IL 61554, Velde Ford of Pekin is committed to providing customers outstanding service. We want you to enjoy your car buying experience. Visit our website at www.VeldeFordPekin.com. You can also reach us at (888) 221-2804. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

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