Ready for a Road Trip? Go Further with Ford

"We want to be green, global and high-tech. We are using our global resources to produce innovative technology for safer, cleaner, more fuel-efficient vehicles."
Bill Ford, Executive Chairman
Ford Motor Company

I may not drive but I love being a passenger in a snazzy vehicle and I do care about the strain that automobiles can place on the environment. Not knowing much about cars, I was very intrigued when Ford Motor Company invited me to attend their annual trend conference Go Further with Ford. Hosted in June at their campus in Dearborn, Michigan, the conference explored global trends and issues facing consumers today and in the future - everything from the environment and design, to urbanization and accessibility. I was surprised to learn that Ford incorporates materials such as soybeans, denim, coconuts, and even retired currency into the construction of their vehicles. As more consumers clamor for cars that use fewer or no fossil fuels, Ford has expanded their offerings to include electric vehicles and hybrids.

Here are a few highlights from my Ford adventure. My knowledge of cars increased tremendously and I had some fun along the way!

The highlight of our first evening was a private dinner hosted by Bill Ford (Executive Chairman, Ford Motor Company) on Ford Field - home of the Detroit Lions. I never imagined that I would be wearing a little black dress on a football field!

Actor and environmental activist Adrian Grenier participated in a lively panel on eco-psychology. I assure you that I did not let his boyish good looks distract me from the serious nature of the discussion on what it really means to be eco-friendly. Adrian is truly passionate about this topic - he is the co-founder of the sustainability lifestyle platform SHFT.com and Ford is one of their partners. Bill Ford is featured in the Big SHFT series on environmental innovators.


Wow, cars have come a long way. I loved visiting the Henry Ford Museum. More than just automobiles, the museum has trains, planes and more on display. Historical treasures include the Rosa Parks bus, the Lincoln Chair, and the Kennedy limousine. Definitely a must-visit!


2013 Mustang GT Premium Convertible

On my last day in Dearborn, I was treated to a drive in a 2013 Mustang on the Ford test track with a professional stunt driver. Whoa! Sleek, strong, and swift, the Mustang rocked my world - a true adrenaline rush. This would absolutely be my car of choice for a summer road trip. What could be better than driving across the country in such an iconic American car? And, if Adrian Grenier wanted to be my driver, I'm absolutely fine with that!