Ford plan includes covering car payments for buyers who lose jobs

Ford Motor Co. has introduced the Ford Advantage Plan, a program intended to boost consumers' buying confidence and begin rebuilding the U.S. economy.

According to a company release, the plan offers payment protection of up to 12 months on any new Ford, Lincoln, or Mercury vehicle (up to $700 a month), 0 percent financing on select vehicles, and increased local charity support.

"Consumers remain anxious about the economy and their own outlook for the future. We at Ford want to do our part to rebuild faith in the marketplace by offering payment protection on every new Ford, Lincoln or Mercury vehicle for up to a year if our customers lose their jobs," said Ken Czubay, vice president of Sales and Marketing.

"Just as important is additional charity support we will provide in conjunction with our local dealers, who are mindful of how non-profit organizations are struggling during this economic downturn," Czubay said. "Ford and our dealers have always stepped up to take an active lead role in the community, and that's why we are also including a charity element as part of the Ford Advantage Plan."