(October 29, 2009) DEARBORN, Mich. — Editors at Popular Mechanics today announced the winners of the magazine’s 2010 Automotive Excellence Awards, and Ford Motor Company set a precedent, winning more categories in a single year than any other automaker in the history of the awards.

The Popular Mechanics Automotive Excellence Awards recognize the best in automotive design, execution and technology for 2010 model year vehicles in 10 categories. Ford’s Mustang Shelby GT500 won the award in the Performance category, Transit Connect took top honors in the Workhorse category and F-150 SVT Raptor earned the award in the Off-Road Ability category.

“Ford’s sweep of three categories in this year’s awards speaks to the onslaught of great products coming from Dearborn,” said Ben Stewart, automotive editor, Popular Mechanics.

Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development, Ford Motor Company, accepted the awards on behalf of the Ford team.

“This important recognition reflects the strength and diversity of the Ford product lineup,” said Kuzak. “From a performance car to a workhorse vehicle to an off-road pickup, Ford is building quality products that people really want.”

To determine award winners, Stewart says editors of Popular Mechanics travel the globe and spend thousands of miles behind the wheel of every new car and truck introduced by the world’s automakers. After months of hands-on testing and research, the team nominates a list of vehicles in each category, then votes on the winners.