Ford launches Internet first in Europe

COLOGNE, Germany – Ford has announced plans to launch an innovative internet-based "chat" site in Europe, featuring the company's senior executives in open forum with customers and other internet users.

The Ford "E-Chat" series will begin on 10 June with Rolf Zimmermann, Chairman of Ford Werke AG and Vice President, Manufacturing, for Ford of Europe.

"It is vital to Ford that we learn to understand our customer needs better and the best way to achieve that is to get closer to them, to talk with them," he said. "In setting up our new E-Chat series, I and my colleagues are providing the platform for candid discussion about key issues."

"I am very pleased that we are now able to create a direct link with our customers using the internet and I believe my first E-Chat session will provide us with an excellent opportunity to listen to consumer expectations and concerns about cars and the environment," he added.

For this industry first E-Chat with Mr Zimmermann, the key topics for discussion are Ford's advanced vehicle technologies and environmental commitment.

Ford is currently planning a schedule of future E-Chat sessions, which will deal with a wide range of topics and feature other senior executives.

Rolf Zimmermann will be online on 10 June between 17.00-18.00 Hrs at http://www.ford.de/zimmermann.