DETROIT – Smaller may be smarter, says Ford Motor Co., the world's largest producer of big pickups. When Ford unveiled its Explorer America concept vehicle Sunday – a stylish crossover that looks like a highly contemporary midsize SUV – the real news was lurking under its hood.
Instead of a V-6 engine typically found in vehicles like it, the Explorer America was propelled by a 2-liter, four-cylinder engine – a four-cylinder producing 275 horsepower and 280 pounds-feet of torque, considerably more than the current Explorer's V-6.
The big boost in power comes thanks to a turbocharger and direct fuel injection, a combination Ford calls EcoBoost. The automaker plans to use EcoBoost in as many as 500,000 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles during the next five years, allowing the automaker to employ high-powered four-cylinders in place of conventional V-6 engines and turbocharged six-cylinders instead of V-8s.
"What we are emphasizing is the broad-based application of this technology," said Dan Kapp, Ford's director of powertrain research and advanced engineering.
The smaller engines should deliver 20 percent to 30 percent better fuel economy, decrease greenhouse gases and deliver more power, Ford says. Moreover, the new engines should actually feel more powerful to drivers than the ones they replace.
"Much of the torque – the power that drivers feel – will be available from 1,500 rpm, just off idle, to the peak," Mr. Kapp said.
The half-million vehicles would be about 20 percent of Ford's cars and trucks.
A turbocharger is a small compressor under the hood driven by exhaust gases. It pushes the air-fuel mix into the engine's cylinders under pressure, forcing in a larger, denser amount of air and fuel – and increasing horsepower.
With direct injection, gas is squirted directly under high pressure into the cylinders rather than mixed with air in an inlet port leading to the cylinder. Though more expensive to build, direct injection is much more efficient than the port mix.
A 3.5-liter V-6 equipped with the EcoBoost system would produce about 340 horsepower, more than any of Ford's current conventional V-8s and about 75 horsepower more than Ford's conventional 3.5-liter V-6.
"The beauty of this technology is we can apply it at high volume and top to bottom in our lineup," Mr. Kapp said.
Although the system increases under-hood heat and subjects the engine to greater pressures, Ford believes it can deal with those challenges, as other manufacturers have, and maintain all current warranties.
"Customers are smart," said Jim Farley, Ford group vice president of marketing and communications. "They value vehicles – the more efficient, the better."
The Explorer America has room for six people and is capable of "moderate" towing and off-road driving.By TERRY BOX / The Dallas Morning News
Monday, 14 January 2008
Ford sees potential in full-size sedans
DETROIT -- Reports of the death of the big, rear-wheel drive car have been greatly exaggerated, a senior Ford official said yesterday.
Small, front-wheel drive cars are the way of the future for Ford, as they are with all automakers, but the big, rear-wheelers may still have a role, said Mark Fields, president of the Americas for Ford Motor Co.
But he stopped short of saying that's good news for the Ford of Canada St. Thomas assembly plant, where three large, rear-wheel drive cars are assembled.
"We are studying rear-wheel drives very carefully. We feel it is important and gives us a number of options in how we position and design our vehicles," Fields said.
"There is a market, there will continue to be one . . . especially in the luxury market . . . but (for St.Thomas) there may be no significance in us studying rear-wheel drive."
The St. Thomas plant builds the Grand Marquis, Crown Victoria and Lincoln Town Car. Ford has made a commitment to those models until 2010, but after that the plant's future is uncertain.
While Canadian Auto Workers officials have called for new investment in the plant, Ford's position on rear-wheel cars may see St. Thomas get another rear-wheel drive car in the future even if it's not retooled, added Dave Cole, analyst with the Center for Automotive Research in Ann Arbor, Mich.
"We will see more rear-wheel drives. It can do things like police cruisers (such as the Crown Victoria), or high performance or general utility vehicles. There may be a good chance St. Thomas gets a replacement vehicle, but it has to compete against other plants to get it."
Ford kicked off the first day of the media preview of the North American International Auto Show here by unveiling its latest F-150 pickup truck, which now comes in 35 configurations.
Ford also unveiled new variants on its popular Mustang line and a new alternative fuel system, called EcoBoost, which betters performance in vehicles by 20 per cent.
At its morning news conference, GM also stressed going green, announcing an investment with a new ethanol maker Coskata, in Illinois, which has developed technology to reduce the cost of ethanol, and get the cleaner burning fuel from more than corn, including agricultural waste and even used tires.
Although GM, which debuted the Volt electric car last year, is stressing hybrid technology with eight hybrid models this year and 16 within four years, ethanol vehicles will play a larger role, said Rick Wagoner, GM chief executive.
Wagoner also struck an upbeat tone about the future of the auto industry in Canada.
"Those plants have done a good job for us. A lot will depend on demand, particularly in the U.S. Canada has been solid, our hope is that this economic crunch gets behind us."
Ford sees potential in full-size sedansBy NORMAN DE BONO, SUN MEDIA
Small, front-wheel drive cars are the way of the future for Ford, as they are with all automakers, but the big, rear-wheelers may still have a role, said Mark Fields, president of the Americas for Ford Motor Co.
But he stopped short of saying that's good news for the Ford of Canada St. Thomas assembly plant, where three large, rear-wheel drive cars are assembled.
"We are studying rear-wheel drives very carefully. We feel it is important and gives us a number of options in how we position and design our vehicles," Fields said.
"There is a market, there will continue to be one . . . especially in the luxury market . . . but (for St.Thomas) there may be no significance in us studying rear-wheel drive."
The St. Thomas plant builds the Grand Marquis, Crown Victoria and Lincoln Town Car. Ford has made a commitment to those models until 2010, but after that the plant's future is uncertain.
While Canadian Auto Workers officials have called for new investment in the plant, Ford's position on rear-wheel cars may see St. Thomas get another rear-wheel drive car in the future even if it's not retooled, added Dave Cole, analyst with the Center for Automotive Research in Ann Arbor, Mich.
"We will see more rear-wheel drives. It can do things like police cruisers (such as the Crown Victoria), or high performance or general utility vehicles. There may be a good chance St. Thomas gets a replacement vehicle, but it has to compete against other plants to get it."
Ford kicked off the first day of the media preview of the North American International Auto Show here by unveiling its latest F-150 pickup truck, which now comes in 35 configurations.
Ford also unveiled new variants on its popular Mustang line and a new alternative fuel system, called EcoBoost, which betters performance in vehicles by 20 per cent.
At its morning news conference, GM also stressed going green, announcing an investment with a new ethanol maker Coskata, in Illinois, which has developed technology to reduce the cost of ethanol, and get the cleaner burning fuel from more than corn, including agricultural waste and even used tires.
Although GM, which debuted the Volt electric car last year, is stressing hybrid technology with eight hybrid models this year and 16 within four years, ethanol vehicles will play a larger role, said Rick Wagoner, GM chief executive.
Wagoner also struck an upbeat tone about the future of the auto industry in Canada.
"Those plants have done a good job for us. A lot will depend on demand, particularly in the U.S. Canada has been solid, our hope is that this economic crunch gets behind us."
Ford sees potential in full-size sedansBy NORMAN DE BONO, SUN MEDIA
Sunday, 13 January 2008
F-150 bids to stay on top with makeover
Scott Burgess / The Detroit News
The new F-150, Ford says, is built Ford tougher.
It's hard to argue with that.
The redesigned 2009 Ford F-150 underwent an overhaul inside and out, as Ford designers changed out all of the sheet metal, provided more standard features and more choices for the company's best selling vehicle. Even the F-150 badge is updated.
Ford also added a new premium truck, the Platinum Series, to one up the high-end Western motif found in King Ranch.
In other words, the new F-150, which will be unveiled today at the North American International Auto Show, offers more, is stronger and has more amenities to choose from than ever before. With three cab styles, four box options and seven trim levels, there are 35 different configurations customers can build their pickup. Add on 13 wheel choices and Ford offers even more variety.
However, Ford has taken away the V-6 option on its trucks with the 2009 model. Instead, customers can choose from the 4.6-liter and 5.4-liter V-8s. A diesel engine and Ford's EcoBoost direct injection turbocharged V-6 will be available in 2010.
The redesign comes at a tough time for the auto industry. Large trucks have fallen out of favor with some consumers as gas prices remain high, the housing market continues to slide and the threat of a recession increases.
Demand for full-size pickups dropped last year 3.2 percent, according to Autodata Corp. Ford's sales fell 13.2 percent.
That didn't stand in the way for Ford. The Dearborn-based automaker rebuilt the truck from the frame, which is now 10 percent stronger, all the way through the interior.
While the trucks keep their Ford looks, every model will have a different version of the Ford's iconic three-bar grille.
"We wanted to give every model a distinct appearance while keeping the truck's signature tough look," said Pat Schiavone, design director, Ford truck and SUVs.
The fenders keep their flares, but add a distinctive groove above them. Additional trim along the doors connects the fenders and creates the optical illusion that the trucks are larger than they look.
But don't mistake that for these trucks being small. They're far from it.
As the height of the beds grew through the years, many customers have complained that they couldn't reach into the bed, so Ford added a unique side step between the cab and the rear wheel. The feature works perfectly, opening up with the touch of your toe and allowing you to step up and reach into the bed. It closes just as easily as pushing your foot against it.
The most dramatic change of the F-150 is its tailgate, which now includes a pull out step found on the Super Duty trucks.
From the rear, the taillights look smaller, but they wrap around the side, taking up more quarter panel real estate on the side than the back. The effect makes the truck look wider.
The bed is also more functional. Aside from the box side step, Ford will offer a factory installed cargo management system, and stowable bed extender, which folds up and rests against the bed walls when not in use.
Inside, Ford has refined the interior. A back up camera integrated into the rear view mirror allows the driver to easily back up and connect the truck's hitch to a trailer.
Ford's Sync system is also available, which allows the driver to operate a phone and music device with voice commands.
Ford also added more storage spaces inside. All told, there are more than 30 places to store items. The center console is two-inches longer, providing more space.
The shifter was changed to make it more ergonomic, and the switches were made larger. There are also two 12-volt outlets placed on the dash and center console.
The seats were upgraded and designed to include a power recline and power adjustable lumbar, as well as heating and cooling functions.
Retooling this top selling pickup is a difficult task. But the 2009 F-150 hits the mark -- inside and out.
The new F-150, Ford says, is built Ford tougher.
It's hard to argue with that.
The redesigned 2009 Ford F-150 underwent an overhaul inside and out, as Ford designers changed out all of the sheet metal, provided more standard features and more choices for the company's best selling vehicle. Even the F-150 badge is updated.
Ford also added a new premium truck, the Platinum Series, to one up the high-end Western motif found in King Ranch.
In other words, the new F-150, which will be unveiled today at the North American International Auto Show, offers more, is stronger and has more amenities to choose from than ever before. With three cab styles, four box options and seven trim levels, there are 35 different configurations customers can build their pickup. Add on 13 wheel choices and Ford offers even more variety.
However, Ford has taken away the V-6 option on its trucks with the 2009 model. Instead, customers can choose from the 4.6-liter and 5.4-liter V-8s. A diesel engine and Ford's EcoBoost direct injection turbocharged V-6 will be available in 2010.
The redesign comes at a tough time for the auto industry. Large trucks have fallen out of favor with some consumers as gas prices remain high, the housing market continues to slide and the threat of a recession increases.
Demand for full-size pickups dropped last year 3.2 percent, according to Autodata Corp. Ford's sales fell 13.2 percent.
That didn't stand in the way for Ford. The Dearborn-based automaker rebuilt the truck from the frame, which is now 10 percent stronger, all the way through the interior.
While the trucks keep their Ford looks, every model will have a different version of the Ford's iconic three-bar grille.
"We wanted to give every model a distinct appearance while keeping the truck's signature tough look," said Pat Schiavone, design director, Ford truck and SUVs.
The fenders keep their flares, but add a distinctive groove above them. Additional trim along the doors connects the fenders and creates the optical illusion that the trucks are larger than they look.
But don't mistake that for these trucks being small. They're far from it.
As the height of the beds grew through the years, many customers have complained that they couldn't reach into the bed, so Ford added a unique side step between the cab and the rear wheel. The feature works perfectly, opening up with the touch of your toe and allowing you to step up and reach into the bed. It closes just as easily as pushing your foot against it.
The most dramatic change of the F-150 is its tailgate, which now includes a pull out step found on the Super Duty trucks.
From the rear, the taillights look smaller, but they wrap around the side, taking up more quarter panel real estate on the side than the back. The effect makes the truck look wider.
The bed is also more functional. Aside from the box side step, Ford will offer a factory installed cargo management system, and stowable bed extender, which folds up and rests against the bed walls when not in use.
Inside, Ford has refined the interior. A back up camera integrated into the rear view mirror allows the driver to easily back up and connect the truck's hitch to a trailer.
Ford's Sync system is also available, which allows the driver to operate a phone and music device with voice commands.
Ford also added more storage spaces inside. All told, there are more than 30 places to store items. The center console is two-inches longer, providing more space.
The shifter was changed to make it more ergonomic, and the switches were made larger. There are also two 12-volt outlets placed on the dash and center console.
The seats were upgraded and designed to include a power recline and power adjustable lumbar, as well as heating and cooling functions.
Retooling this top selling pickup is a difficult task. But the 2009 F-150 hits the mark -- inside and out.
New 2009 FORD F-150: More Capability, More Choice, More 'Smart' Features For America's Truck
DETROIT, Jan. 13 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The vision for Ford's truck team was clear: Redesign America's favorite truck inside and out to give customers unrivaled capability, unprecedented choice and a host of smart, game-changing features.
The result is the new 2009 Ford F-150, the new benchmark in the full-size pickup segment from the industry's truck leader -- which has built more than 33 million F-Series pickups since 1948.
The Ford truck team adopted a holistic, 360-degree approach to revamping the new 2009 F-150 -- from its segment-first features to the tough new exterior highlighted by a dramatic three-bar grille and more spacious, flexible and refined interior, to the unparalleled choice of cab styles and trim levels -- including a new Platinum series that redefines truck luxury.
The improvements are just as dramatic beneath the sheet metal. A new high-strength, lighter-weight chassis is the backbone that allows this tough truck to deliver more horsepower, better fuel economy and safety, and additional towing and payload capacity.
"The Ford F-150 is an American icon," said Mark Fields, Ford's president of The Americas. "Ford is the truck leader, and F-150 customers expect and demand the best truck on the market.
"Our team not only met those expectations, they exceeded them with the new 2009 F-150," Fields added. "With Ford's product-led transformation in full swing, the new F-150 could not have come at a better time -- for Ford and for our customers."
In all, more than 1,000 Ford engineers, designers, researchers and others worked together to develop the new 2009 F-150. The team drew inspiration by listening to Ford's large customer base.
"Before we started working on the new truck, we continued the conversation with people who use these trucks every day for work and play," said Matt O'Leary, chief engineer of the 2009 F-150. "We went to their ranches, their job sites and their homes, making sure we crafted features that would improve their ownership experiences and, really, their lives."
The results will be clear to customers when the new 2009 F-150 rolls off assembly lines at Ford's Dearborn (Mich.) Truck Plant and Kansas City Assembly Plant in Claycomo, Mo. -- and as the new F-150 goes on sale in dealer showrooms this fall.
Most Capable
Ford F-150 customers tackle tough jobs when they work and play, and they need a full-size truck that rises to the challenge. The current F-150 is already the most capable truck on the market, but Ford's truck team drove capability to new levels with the 2009 model.
The improvement starts with the 2009 F-150's fully boxed frame constructed with hydro-formed and high strength steel side rails. The lightweight frame delivers 10 percent more torsional rigidity, which delivers increased durability and safety. The sturdy chassis also paved the way for the new 2009 F-150 to improve upon the current model's class-leading towing and hauling capability across all cab configurations.
"The new, improved chassis helps deliver additional payload and towing capacity as well as improved fuel economy, which we know is top of mind for customers," O'Leary said.
Thanks to the strength of the frame and comprehensive package of standard safety equipment, including side-curtain air bags, the new F-150 is engineered to earn top safety ratings from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Complementing the modern frame is a high-tech suite of features that ensures the F-150 is sure-footed and safe in all driving and load conditions. The new F-150 offers segment-first standard AdvanceTrac(R) with RSC(R) (Roll Stability Control) and Trailer Sway Control plus available Rearview Camera Assist as well as Integrated Trailer Brake Controller a segment-first on light-duty pickups.
The interior of the new 2009 F-150 SuperCrew offers more usable space for moving more people and gear thanks to a 6-inch stretch that improves rear seat legroom and cargo capacity. A mechanically articulated second-row seat flips up and out of the way. Combined with a truly flat load floor, the feature gives the new SuperCrew class leading 57.6 cubic feet of space behind the front seats and can accommodate items up to 47.9 inches tall, such as flat- screen TV that needs to be hauled from the electronics store to home.
Most Choice
Ford's F-Series may be America's best-selling vehicle, but one-size-fits-all does not apply to today's truck buyer. From the Texas rancher to the general contractor in Florida, F-150 customers have different needs and tastes.
In response, Ford's truck team designed a truck that offers more choice than any full-size truck on the market. With three cab styles, four box options and seven unique trim levels, the F-150 comes in 35 different configurations to meet the widest range of customer needs and wants -- all delivered with quality.
Customers can choose from the no-fuss XL workhorse, to the sporty STX and off-road capable FX4, to the mid-range XLT. For those looking for tough luxury, Ford offers the high-end Lariat and King Ranch F-150 models.
New for the 2009 F-150 is the Platinum series, the most luxurious F-150 ever and the answer to a perennial question: Just how high-end do truck customers want to go?
The striking F-150 Platinum features a satin chrome grille with fine mesh inserts, 10-way captain's chairs upholstered with top-quality leather, tuxedo stitching and embroidered logos on the seatbacks. Satin gloss Lacrosse Ash wood grain accents and real brushed aluminum panels give the dash, center console and doors an upscale look and feel. Standard 20-inch, 16-spoke polished aluminum wheels give the truck a commanding presence on the road.
With more customers interested in personalizing their trucks, Ford is offering the largest selection of wheels in the segment with 13 offerings across the F-150 lineup.
Under the hood, the new F-150 will be powered by three modern V-8 engines, mated to either a 4-speed or a new fuel-efficient 6-speed automatic transmission. The engines include: * 5.4-liter, 3-valve Triton V-8, which has been optimized for better
performance with improved horsepower and torque, and is capable of
running on E85 (85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline), regular
unleaded gasoline or any blend in between.
* 4.6-liter, 3-valve V-8, which is new for F-150. Both the 5.4-liter and
4.6-liter 3-valve V-8's utilize open valve injection. This unique
feature improves the flow of fuel into the combustion chamber, which
results in an increase in horsepower during towing and reduced
emissions.
* 4.6-liter, 2-valve V-8, a third V-8 choice in the line-up that delivers
more horsepower with the same fuel economy performance as the outgoing
truck's V-6.
This all-V-8 engine lineup delivers a fleet-average 1 mpg improvement in fuel economy versus the outgoing F-150.
Diesel and EcoBoost gas turbo direct injection engines are planned for F-150 in 2010 as well.
Most 'Smart' Features
Ford's researchers spent thousands of hours listening to truck buyers to gain inspiration for a host of smart new features for the new 2009 Ford F-150.
It starts with the clever interior, which features a flow-through console that has been lengthened by approximately 2 inches and is large enough to stow two or more laptop computers. Special ridges are molded into the edges of the bin to accommodate file folders. The console also has a multi-tiered, removable tray and locks to protect valuables.
More than 30 storage areas are built into the interior, ranging from a bin on the top of the instrument panel to a number of small spaces designed to accommodate tools like cell phones, MP3 players, PDAs and gate access cards.
A redesigned, more ergonomic shifter remains on the console. New, larger buttons and switches are ergonomically designed and within easy reach and view of the driver. A USB port and auxiliary MP3 player input are conveniently mounted on the dash. Two 12-volt outlets are located on the dash and center console.
Even the pickup box on the new F-150 breaks the mold with clever and capable features the competition cannot match. The class-leading cargo capacity of 65.5 cubic feet is only the beginning of the story. The F-150's pickup box is made easier to use, more flexible and accessible with such new features as Ford's industry-exclusive Tailgate and Box Side Steps, Stowable Bed Extender and Cargo Management System.
"These features are impressive on their own. For the customer who uses their pickup box five, six or seven times a day, these innovations together make a huge difference," O'Leary said.
That same kind of logic drove the team to include other clever features on the truck, including Ford's Easy Fuel(TM) Capless Fuel-Filler System. When fueling is completed and the nozzle is removed, the system automatically seals shut, reducing emissions.
The new 2009 Ford-150 also will allow truck customers to be connected to the world like never before. Ford has been working with Microsoft, Sony and SIRIUS to offer customers leading technologies to help them stay connected with their lives while on the road including: * Industry-exclusive Ford SYNC(TM), a voice-activated, hands-free,
in-vehicle communications and entertainment system offers even more
functionality for the 2009 model year, with 911 Assist and Vehicle
Health Report.
* SIRIUS Travel Link(TM) that when combined with voice activated
navigation will provide users with a suite of data services including
real-time traffic, coast-to-coast weather conditions and fuel price
information for over 120,000 gas stations.
* Voice-activated navigation that integrates several functions, including
voice recognition destination entry, climate control and SIRIUS
satellite radio into one easy-to-use system, displaying them on an 8-
inch touch screen display.
* Sony audio system that features 700 watts of power, 5.1 surround sound
and 10 Sony speakers and amps and is certified by Sony to deliver a
unique, rich listening experience.
"We know how important the F-150 is to our customers," said O'Leary. "With the new 2009 F-150, we are delivering a top-quality truck lineup that is second-to-none in capability, features and a range of choices that will continue to make Ford America's favorite truck."
Verve Concept: Small Cars in Ford’s Future
Ford unveiled the Verve Concept last week at the Frankfurt Auto Show. It’s the latest iteration of Ford’s ongoing “kinetic design” theme. The new Kuga, Mondeo, and redesigned Ford Focus Europe will be hitting the roads of Europe by the end of 2008, but this concept car is a bolder step in the small-car direction. Martin Smith (Executive Director of Design for Ford of Europe) describes the Verve Concept as “a chic, modern, and individualistic statement for a sophisticated, fashion-aware generation.” The concept was created by a team of designers from Ford studios in Dunton, England, and Cologne, Germany.
Ford is looking for public reaction to inform the design team’s vision. European design chief Martin Smith said that showing the Verve Concept at Frankfurt will be one of several opportunities in the near future for public feedback, and John Fleming (President and CEO of Ford of Europe) described the Ford Verve as a “bespoke concept car to generate reactions while our production plans are taking shape.”
This is significant for Ford. They’re shifting their design direction and creating a new small car portfolio in major world markets. Verve is the first of three small-car concept vehicles which will debut in Europe, Asia, and North America.
Given a wide degree of freedom to create the concept, the design team, including lead exterior designer Chris Hamilton, grounded their efforts in reality. From its surfaces, colors, and materials, the Verve has a sense of sophistication and fashion. While Ford Verve Concept was created with an eye toward production, there’s no news about specific plans yet.
Ford is looking for public reaction to inform the design team’s vision. European design chief Martin Smith said that showing the Verve Concept at Frankfurt will be one of several opportunities in the near future for public feedback, and John Fleming (President and CEO of Ford of Europe) described the Ford Verve as a “bespoke concept car to generate reactions while our production plans are taking shape.”
This is significant for Ford. They’re shifting their design direction and creating a new small car portfolio in major world markets. Verve is the first of three small-car concept vehicles which will debut in Europe, Asia, and North America.
Given a wide degree of freedom to create the concept, the design team, including lead exterior designer Chris Hamilton, grounded their efforts in reality. From its surfaces, colors, and materials, the Verve has a sense of sophistication and fashion. While Ford Verve Concept was created with an eye toward production, there’s no news about specific plans yet.
2007 Ford Verve Concept
Say hello to Verve. Oops, sorry, that was the tag line for somebody else's small car, but there's little denying Ford's need for a small, fuel-efficient and affordable alternative, something that could go up against the likes of the Toyota Yaris or Honda Fit. And from the hints theU.S. automaker is dropping, its Verve concept may very well fill the small car hole in its lineup.
The concept builds on prior prototypes, such as the Iosis, which, in Ford-speak, introduced the new "kinetic design" philosophy. The sculpted form is designed to project both agility and muscularity - in sharp contrast to the cheap-and-cheerful small cars of the past.
From nose-on, the Verve's design is dominated by an inverted, trapezoidal lower grille, with the traditional Ford oval in a smaller, upper grille. The prominent headlights, featuring projector and LED lights, flow into the sculpted hood.
In person, the Verve's huge eggcrate grille dominates the view from the front and gives it an aggressive look that's toothy yet toothsome. From the side around to the back, the Verve's smooth arcs and gently contoured surfaces contrast with the front end's sharpness. Unfortunately, such lines would likely never make it to production as they look like they would obscure visibility and the view from the back seat.
"Our design team took an unrestrained approach to how our future small cars could look, and this eye-catching concept was one of the results," said Ford of Europe President and CEO John Fleming in the press release that accompanied the unveiling. "If we get the reaction we expect, I'm certain that the team will incorporate elements of this advanced design vision into our final production design."
From the side, the goal was to project a sense of motion, enhanced by pillarless side windows and a curvaceous roof line, as well as a dynamic "belt" and bold wheelwells.
The Verve's rear features a central exhaust integrated into the lower diffuser, with complementing elements of dark chrome and brushed aluminum.
In show car form, the Verve rides on 18-inch, 12-spoke, two-piece alloy wheels.
The high-tech interior was inspired, according to Ford designers, by the latest mobile phones. While some manufacturers are consolidating electronic systems into a select set of controls, Ford "decoupled" the various elements, such as navigation and audio, with buttons and controls placed in logical and easy reach.
The primary gauges - speedometer and rev counter - are uniquely framed by binocular-shaped, short tunnels of brightwork which complement the center stack and contrast the rich interior colors like a fashion accessory.
While Ford officials suggest the Verve is an indication of what's soon to come from their design studios, John Fleming, president and CEO of Ford of Europe, cautions that the concept's primary goal is "to generate reactions while our production plans are taking shape."
Ford officials are notably silent on some critical specifics, including the Verve's powertrain package. Considering the show car will first be seen in Frankfurt , it's a safe assumption that at least one diesel is in the offing.
Meanwhile, there's no specific timetable for production, but there are ways to make an educated guess. Last December, Mark Fields, Ford's President of the Americas , suggested a new small car would arrive for Stateside buyers in about two years, meaning sometime during the 2009 model year. A final version of the Verve is likely to be that car - or at least one version, anyway. European buyers would likely see the Verve roll into their showrooms about the same time.
The concept builds on prior prototypes, such as the Iosis, which, in Ford-speak, introduced the new "kinetic design" philosophy. The sculpted form is designed to project both agility and muscularity - in sharp contrast to the cheap-and-cheerful small cars of the past.
From nose-on, the Verve's design is dominated by an inverted, trapezoidal lower grille, with the traditional Ford oval in a smaller, upper grille. The prominent headlights, featuring projector and LED lights, flow into the sculpted hood.
In person, the Verve's huge eggcrate grille dominates the view from the front and gives it an aggressive look that's toothy yet toothsome. From the side around to the back, the Verve's smooth arcs and gently contoured surfaces contrast with the front end's sharpness. Unfortunately, such lines would likely never make it to production as they look like they would obscure visibility and the view from the back seat.
"Our design team took an unrestrained approach to how our future small cars could look, and this eye-catching concept was one of the results," said Ford of Europe President and CEO John Fleming in the press release that accompanied the unveiling. "If we get the reaction we expect, I'm certain that the team will incorporate elements of this advanced design vision into our final production design."
From the side, the goal was to project a sense of motion, enhanced by pillarless side windows and a curvaceous roof line, as well as a dynamic "belt" and bold wheelwells.
The Verve's rear features a central exhaust integrated into the lower diffuser, with complementing elements of dark chrome and brushed aluminum.
In show car form, the Verve rides on 18-inch, 12-spoke, two-piece alloy wheels.
The high-tech interior was inspired, according to Ford designers, by the latest mobile phones. While some manufacturers are consolidating electronic systems into a select set of controls, Ford "decoupled" the various elements, such as navigation and audio, with buttons and controls placed in logical and easy reach.
The primary gauges - speedometer and rev counter - are uniquely framed by binocular-shaped, short tunnels of brightwork which complement the center stack and contrast the rich interior colors like a fashion accessory.
While Ford officials suggest the Verve is an indication of what's soon to come from their design studios, John Fleming, president and CEO of Ford of Europe, cautions that the concept's primary goal is "to generate reactions while our production plans are taking shape."
Ford officials are notably silent on some critical specifics, including the Verve's powertrain package. Considering the show car will first be seen in Frankfurt , it's a safe assumption that at least one diesel is in the offing.
Meanwhile, there's no specific timetable for production, but there are ways to make an educated guess. Last December, Mark Fields, Ford's President of the Americas , suggested a new small car would arrive for Stateside buyers in about two years, meaning sometime during the 2009 model year. A final version of the Verve is likely to be that car - or at least one version, anyway. European buyers would likely see the Verve roll into their showrooms about the same time.
Ford Verve shows small-car future
BY SARAH A. WEBSTER and MARK PHELAN
FREE PRESS BUSINESS WRITERS
A sporty new subcompact car, suspended in air with cables, slowly descended through a crowd of smoke onto the stage at Cobo Arena today.
After the rouge-red car landed, Ford Motor Co. executive Jim Farley unveiled the Verve concept with a simple message: "Verve is our future."
AdvertisementAfter 10 years without a subcompact model below its Focus model, Ford is getting ready to bring its hot, sporty small cars to the United States after having success with them in Europe for years.The new small car won't hit showrooms until 2010, though, bringing Ford to market years after the Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit and other small models have been gobbling up customers.Farley stood in front of the Verve, and a hatchback version.Hatchbacks have been popular in Europe, but less so in the United States, so Farley encouraged customers to give Ford their thoughts on the new hatchback, which would be sold here if Ford receives the right customer response.Ford is relying on cars like the Verve to help it differentiate its truck-dependent lineup in the future. Last year, Ford's sales in the United States fell 12% compared to 2006.With the graceful and classy-looking Verve, Ford answers two questions that have bedeviled the automaker: Why don’t you build a really good subcompact car? How come Europe gets beautiful Fords we can’t buy here?The Verve’s beautiful fastback sedan shape is almost identical to a small car Ford will sell in the United States beginning in 2010, and its driver-oriented chassis and powertrain come direct from the company’s European engineering center.Ford calls the Verve a B-car, which means it’s smaller than the Focus. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean the car that arrives in 2010 will be a subcompact.Each class of cars gets a little larger with each generation, and the concept’s interior space appears to compare very well with current compacts like the Focus.The sedan and a two-door hatchback will be on Ford’s stand at the auto show. The hatchback is the European body style for the car, which Ford will build around the world in different versions tailored to individual markets.The sleek exterior is an example of what Ford calls kinetic design, the styling theme first seen on the acclaimed Mondeo midsize sedan in Europe. Variations on the sleek and distinctive theme will shape future Ford-brand cars sold in America.While the Verve’s appearance is realistic, the concept’s interior serves as a showpiece for advanced design and materials rather than a look into the 2010 production car.Intriguing visual touches include control buttons that look like a mobile phone’s keypad and climate-control dials inspired by the handles of luxury showers.Along with the Verve and the F-150 pickup, Ford also unveiled the rounded and contemporary-looking Explorer America concept, which showcases the engineering advances Ford will use to boost the fuel economy of future vehicles.From lightweight body construction to turbocharged direct-injection engines, the Explorer America relies on available technologies instead of the futuristic drivetrains many concept vehicles claim to use.Combining direct gasoline injection and turbocharging produces a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 275 horsepower and a 3.5-liter V6 generating 340 horsepower. A car-like unibody chassis, six-speed automatic transmission, lightweight materials and energy-efficient accessories like electric power steering would boost fuel economy 25% to 35% versus the current Explorer.Despite its SUV looks, the concept has sliding rear doors to provide minivan-like access to the rear seats.
FREE PRESS BUSINESS WRITERS
A sporty new subcompact car, suspended in air with cables, slowly descended through a crowd of smoke onto the stage at Cobo Arena today.
After the rouge-red car landed, Ford Motor Co. executive Jim Farley unveiled the Verve concept with a simple message: "Verve is our future."
AdvertisementAfter 10 years without a subcompact model below its Focus model, Ford is getting ready to bring its hot, sporty small cars to the United States after having success with them in Europe for years.The new small car won't hit showrooms until 2010, though, bringing Ford to market years after the Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit and other small models have been gobbling up customers.Farley stood in front of the Verve, and a hatchback version.Hatchbacks have been popular in Europe, but less so in the United States, so Farley encouraged customers to give Ford their thoughts on the new hatchback, which would be sold here if Ford receives the right customer response.Ford is relying on cars like the Verve to help it differentiate its truck-dependent lineup in the future. Last year, Ford's sales in the United States fell 12% compared to 2006.With the graceful and classy-looking Verve, Ford answers two questions that have bedeviled the automaker: Why don’t you build a really good subcompact car? How come Europe gets beautiful Fords we can’t buy here?The Verve’s beautiful fastback sedan shape is almost identical to a small car Ford will sell in the United States beginning in 2010, and its driver-oriented chassis and powertrain come direct from the company’s European engineering center.Ford calls the Verve a B-car, which means it’s smaller than the Focus. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean the car that arrives in 2010 will be a subcompact.Each class of cars gets a little larger with each generation, and the concept’s interior space appears to compare very well with current compacts like the Focus.The sedan and a two-door hatchback will be on Ford’s stand at the auto show. The hatchback is the European body style for the car, which Ford will build around the world in different versions tailored to individual markets.The sleek exterior is an example of what Ford calls kinetic design, the styling theme first seen on the acclaimed Mondeo midsize sedan in Europe. Variations on the sleek and distinctive theme will shape future Ford-brand cars sold in America.While the Verve’s appearance is realistic, the concept’s interior serves as a showpiece for advanced design and materials rather than a look into the 2010 production car.Intriguing visual touches include control buttons that look like a mobile phone’s keypad and climate-control dials inspired by the handles of luxury showers.Along with the Verve and the F-150 pickup, Ford also unveiled the rounded and contemporary-looking Explorer America concept, which showcases the engineering advances Ford will use to boost the fuel economy of future vehicles.From lightweight body construction to turbocharged direct-injection engines, the Explorer America relies on available technologies instead of the futuristic drivetrains many concept vehicles claim to use.Combining direct gasoline injection and turbocharging produces a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 275 horsepower and a 3.5-liter V6 generating 340 horsepower. A car-like unibody chassis, six-speed automatic transmission, lightweight materials and energy-efficient accessories like electric power steering would boost fuel economy 25% to 35% versus the current Explorer.Despite its SUV looks, the concept has sliding rear doors to provide minivan-like access to the rear seats.
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