Former Captain of the Australian Cricket Team and 1999 Australian of the Year, Mark Taylor, took delivery today of the first FTE T-Series, Ford's new performance sedan, at a presentation in Campbellfield.

Ford Australia President, Geoff Polites, said it was fitting that a man who has performed so well for Australia at the highest level should drive the first T-Series, production car No.001.

"Mark Taylor is a sporting legend who epitomises the highest standards of achievement.

"Our new T-Series sports sedans are set to excite car enthusiasts by raising the standards of performance, handling and comfort to similar levels," Mr Polites said.

Taylor said he was delighted to be associated with a locally designed and manufactured car that sets new benchmarks for the Australian motor industry.

"Ford have developed a sophisticated and distinctive sports sedan which sets the right balance between style, performance and handling. As a family man, I need a family sized sedan but something with a bit of get up and go. With my new T-Series, I'll definitely be quick off the mark," Mr Taylor said.

Mark personally completed the installation of his new car's last wheel before the presentation ceremony.

The opportunity to have such a hands-on role in the completion of his T-Series is part of the total ownership experience available to Mark and other customers as part of the FTE dealer network.

Geoff Polites says that Mark's involvement in production and servicing of his new car is an integral part of the FTE philosophy. "Customers of these calibre cars are demanding this increased level of service and involvement with their vehicles. The FTE program will meet these needs."

Mark Taylor certainly seems to agree. "Even though it was only a small part of the process, it was great to be able to be involved in the actual production of my car. It's definitely increased my sense of ownership."

Another option available to Mark and other T-Series owners is the ability to watch the progress of their car - both in production and servicing - via the internet. This personal involvement in their vehicles continues with customers being able to trace exactly which engineer built their engine - through a unique engine "branding" process where the engine builder's ID personalises their work.

The T-Series has already received high praise from motoring writers for its driving and handling qualities.

The V8 powered vehicles feature race-bred brakes, an Australian developed, wheel-mounted electronic sports shift and suspension supervised by Ford V8 Supercar driver, John Bowe.

The T-Series will be sold through a new specialised dealership network, to be launched in October.