Tampilkan postingan dengan label ford. Tampilkan semua postingan
Tampilkan postingan dengan label ford. Tampilkan semua postingan

Kamis, 27 November 2008

The New Ford Fusion Hybrid












"Offering consumers more fuel-efficient vehicle choices, including improving and increasing our hybrid vehicle offerings, is part of Ford's broad plan to deliver technology solutions for affordable fuel economy for millions," Kuzak said.

"With the new Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan hybrids, we are now able to offer even better range of travel on battery power at a greater speed, thanks to a more efficient, seamless transition between the battery-powered motor and gasoline-driven engine," he said. "These new hybrids will exceed expectations on all fronts - fuel efficiency, comfort, convenience and drivability."

The Ford Hybrid team has developed a powertrain system that combines the best attributes of the gasoline engine and electric battery-driven motors to deliver the optimal experience for the customer in terms of driving performance and fuel economy. Additionally, the propulsion system for the Ford Fusion Hybrid and Mercury Milan Hybrid transitions between gas and electric power and back more efficiently and seamlessly.

The overall system upgrade allows the Ford Fusion Hybrid and Mercury Milan Hybrid to operate longer at higher speeds in electric mode. The hybrid vehicles can operate up to 47 mph in pure electric mode, approximately twice as fast as some competitors. Plus, the city driving range on a single tank of gas is expected to be more than 700 miles.

The next-generation hybrid system features:

  • New 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine (155 horsepower/136 lb.-ft. of torque) running the proven Atkinson cycle mated to an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission or e-CVT.
  • Intake Variable Cam Timing (iVCT), which allows the vehicle to more seamlessly transition from gas to electric mode and vice-versa. The spark and cam timing are varied according to the engine load to optimize efficiency and emissions.
  • Enhanced electronic throttle control reduces airflow on shutdowns, reducing fueling needs on restarts.
  • Wide-band lambda sensor analyzes the air-fuel ratio and adjusts the lean/rich mixture accordingly to keep the system in balance and to minimize emissions.
  • A new smaller, lighter nickel-metal hydride battery has been optimized to produce 20 percent more power. Improved chemistry allows the battery to be run at a higher temperature and it is cooled using cabin air.
  • An added variable voltage converter boosts the voltage to the traction battery to operate the motor and generator more efficiently.
  • A new high-efficiency converter provides 14 percent increased output to accommodate a wider array of vehicle features.
  • Smarter climate control system monitors cabin temperature and only runs the gas engine as needed to heat the cabin; it also includes an electric air conditioning compressor to further minimize engine use.
  • The regenerative brake system captures the energy normally lost through friction in braking and stores it. Nearly 94 percent energy recovery is achieved by first delivering full regenerative braking followed by friction brakes during city driving.
  • A simulator brake actuation system dictates brake actuation and delivers improved brake pedal feel compared to the previous generation braking system.

"Because our hybrid can run at a much higher speed in electric mode, you can do so much more in city-driving situations," said Gil Portalatin, Hybrid Applications Manager. "Under the right conditions, you can drive in your neighborhood or mall parking lots without using a drop of gasoline."

The Ford Fusion Hybrid also offers drivers a way to be more connected to the hybrid driving experience thanks to Ford's SmartGauge with EcoGuide, a unique instrument cluster execution that helps coach them on how to optimize performance of their hybrid.

SmartGauge with EcoGuide features two, high-resolution, full-color liquid crystal display (LCD) screens on either side of the analog speedometer that can be configured to show different levels of information, including fuel and battery power levels, average and instant miles-per-gallon.

EcoGuide uses a multi-layered approach to coach the driver to maximum fuel efficiency.

A tutorial mode built into the display that helps the driver learn about the instrument cluster and the hybrid in a whimsical way that does not overpower. Technical enthusiasts will love the detailed gauges that will help them learn to become more efficient in their driving. Everyday drivers will love another new feature in this same gauge cluster. Called "Efficiency Leaves," the system "grows" leaves and vines on-screen to reward customers for efficient driving.

Drivers can choose one of four data screens to choose the information level displayed during their drives. They are:

  • Inform: Fuel level and battery charge status
  • Enlighten: Adds electric vehicle mode indicator and tachometer
  • Engage: Adds engine output power and battery output power
  • Empower: Adds power to wheels, engine pull-up threshold and accessory power consumption

All levels can show instant fuel economy, fuel economy history, odometer, engine coolant temperature, what gear the car is in and trip data (trip fuel economy, time-elapsed fuel economy and miles to empty). The engine coolant temperature indicator turns green when engine conditions are warm enough to allow engine pull-down.

Several other elements help differentiate the Ford Fusion Hybrid from its gas-powered sibling, including unique hybrid "road and leaf" badging on both sides and the rear of the vehicle; unique 17-inch, eight-spoke wheels; eco-friendly seat fabric made from post-industrial 100 percent recycled materials; and a standard 110-volt power outlet.

Senin, 24 November 2008

The New Ford Fiesta Sedan












Ford staged the global reveal of its all-new Ford Fiesta Sedan four-door at the 2008 Guangzhou Auto Show, delivering in full on the bold promise made by the Ford Verve Concept notchback last year.

The dynamic all-new Ford Fiesta Sedan features Ford's signature kinetic design elements - introduced to China first on the exciting Ford Fiesta five-door hatchback at Auto China in Beijing in April - demonstrating the versatility of this unique design language and its consumer appeal in important global markets.

"We set out to design a truly exciting, desirable small car that exceeds all expectations. Today, we are keeping our promise that was made with the Verve Concept notchback last year," said Chelsia Lau, chief designer of China/ASEAN Programs, Ford Motor Company. "The all-new Ford Fiesta Sedan is sleek and contemporary. The interpretation of kinetic design on the four-door body has given the Fiesta sedan an independent identity while retaining the emotional appeal of its five-door sibling. "

The Ford Fiesta Sedan will be launched in China within months of its global reveal. It will be built at Ford's new, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Nanjing.

"This Fiesta writes the next chapter in our small car success story and builds on the widespread appeal of the Ford brand in China. Style-aware Chinese consumers will appreciate the uniqueness of this car that expresses their individuality, style and aspirations," said Robert Graziano, president and CEO, Ford Motor China.

The Ford Fiesta Sedan will be manufactured in China using the same advanced technologies as does its European counterpart. The body structure is manufactured with extensive use of high- and ultra high-strength steels to significantly increase strength and rigidity, while also reducing weight and improving fuel efficiency. These advanced steels also provide Fiesta with an increased measure of occupant protection.

The Ford Fiesta Sedan has been tailored to satisfy customer wants in China. Carrying out Fiesta's global strategy, additional variations of the all-new Ford Fiesta Sedan will be available across Asia and North America from 2010 with production from Thailand and Mexico supplying these important markets. However, Ford Fiesta Sedan will not be distributed in Europe.

"Launching the all-new Ford Fiesta Sedan to the world in China signals the importance of China and the Asian region in Ford's global strategy, " said John Parker, executive vice president, Asia Pacific and Africa, Ford Motor Company. "This is a sophisticated small car. Design combines with advanced technology to deliver very high levels of refinement, safety and class-leading fuel efficiency. This new Fiesta proves Ford's leadership in small car design and development. "

Selasa, 30 September 2008

The New Ford F-150 SFE












America's best-selling pickup, the Ford F-Series, is raising the bar once again - this time with unsurpassed fuel efficiency on the new 2009 Ford F-150, thanks to significant miles per gallon improvement across the entire F-150 lineup.

On sale in October 2008, the new Ford F-150 offers fuel economy that has improved an average of 8 percent across the entire lineup as a result of a wide-range of engineering enhancements. The fuel economy gains reach as high as 12 percent versus the prior model year on Ford F-150 models equipped with the high-volume 3-valve, 5.4-liter V-8 engine. At the same time, the new F-150 delivers class-leading towing capability of 11,300 pounds and hauling capacity of 3,030 pounds - a combination no other competitor can match.

In addition, Ford is announcing the introduction of the new Ford F-150 SFE "superior fuel economy" edition delivering up to 21 miles per gallon on the highway while still providing 7,500 pounds of towing capability - fuel economy that is unsurpassed in the full-size pickup segment.

"Ford has committed to have the best or equal to the best fuel economy with every new product we introduce, and we are delivering with the new F-150," said Matt O'Leary, Ford F-150 chief engineer. "Fuel economy has moved from 10th to third place among pickup buyers' top purchase considerations - right behind durability and value. The new F-150 delivers on all three as the industry leader."

Fuel Economy throughout the Lineup

The 8 percent improvement in fuel economy across the entire lineup of V-8 F-150s is the result of using lightweight ultra-high-strength steel to lighten the truck up to 100 pounds versus the current model and aerodynamic refinements.

The new F-150 is now best-in-class for aerodynamics. The new F-150 SuperCrew 4X2 with a 5.5-foot box has the lowest coefficient of drag - 0.403 - in the segment. That's 6 percent lower than a comparable 2008 Ford F-150.

Key aero improvements for the new F-150 include:

  • A new chamfered shape to the rear of the cab, which incorporated the center-high-mount stop lamp. This shape helps direct aerodynamic wake over the pickup box efficiently.
  • The top of the tailgate, which angles outward to create a bold lip. This wider surface at the top of the tailgate works with the cab chamfering to direct airflow over the box efficiently.
  • The front bumper valence and spoiler design, which has been improved to better manage airflow underneath the truck without compromising off-roading.

In addition, as part of the fuel economy improvements, Ford's powertrain team delivered technology upgrades to make the F-150 powertrains more efficient.

The new six-speed automatic transmission offers a wider gear ratio span than four-speed transmissions, allowing engineers the flexibility to have responsiveness in low gears and better fuel economy in the taller gears. The new double-overdrive gearbox is designed to contribute a 4 to 6 percent fuel economy improvement.

Both the 5.4-liter and 4.6-liter 3-valve V-8 engines utilize open valve injection. This unique feature improves the air/fuel charge conditions in the combustion chamber, allowing greater spark advance at higher loads and engine speeds. This delivers increased horsepower during towing and higher rpm operations, lower emissions and more efficient use of fuel.

The Ford F-150 also regulates gas consumption by using aggressive deceleration fuel shut-off. The fuel shut-off is automatic and requires no unusual actions from the driver. When the driver releases the accelerator pedal, the system temporarily turns off the fuel. The flow of fuel seamlessly resumes when the truck reaches a low speed or the driver accelerates again.

To prevent engine hesitation normally associated with fuel interruption, Ford's powertrain team developed proprietary software to integrate the technology with the F-150's powertrains.

Jumat, 22 Agustus 2008

The New Ford Ka












The exciting new Ford Ka, Ford's fresh, fun and funky small car, will take centre-stage at the 2008 Paris Motor Show in October.

The all-new Ford Ka brings new levels of style and enjoyment to affordable city cars.

Twelve years after the original Ford Ka was launched to great acclaim, its successor captures the same youthful and cheeky spirit. The new model retains all of the qualities which made the Ford Ka so popular - its compact size, great looks, lively dynamics and fun personality - but presents them in a fresh new package.

Stylish Inside and Out

Ford designers have given the new Ford Ka a fashionable, modern appearance based around the company's 'kinetic design' form language. A number of visual cues provide a connection to the original Ford Ka, but with its distinctive face and chunky proportions the new model has its own unique character.

The interior of the new Ford Ka also has a stylish, dynamic design, combining bold contrasts and expressive colours which reflect the more adventurous tastes of the typical Ford Ka buyer.

Rebirth of a Design Icon

The new model is destined to continue the considerable success of the original Ford Ka, which is widely considered to be an automotive design icon. Launched at the Paris Motor Show in 1996, the Ford Ka was immediately praised for its exciting "New Edge" styling and class-leading driving dynamics.

Throughout its 12-year life the Ford Ka has remained tremendously popular among small-car buyers, inspiring fierce loyalty from its owners. In total, Ford Ka production has exceeded 1.4 million vehicles.

Further information on the new Ford Ka range will be released in time for the Paris Motor Show in early October 2008.

Sabtu, 05 Juli 2008

The New Ford Focus RS












The legendary Ford Ford RS performance car brand is returning in the shape of the exciting new Ford Focus RS, which will be previewed on July 22 at the 2008 London International Motor Show.

The new Ford Focus RS will go on sale in early 2009 and is being created by a small team of dedicated engineers, under the direction of Jost Capito, Ford of Europe's Vehicle Line Director for Performance Vehicles.

For performance road car enthusiasts, the new model will mark a welcome return for the Ford RS badge. This will be the second Focus model to carry the RS mantle and promises another exciting chapter in an exciting 40-year story that began in Germany in the late 1960s and gained momentum across Europe with the launch of the 1970 Escort RS1600.

Capito said: "We want the new Ford Focus RS to be a serious high performance car - as much a car for driving enthusiasts as the one before it and classic Ford RS models of the past. We're staying true to the core RS principles of an exciting, yet affordable performance road car you can live with every day."

High performance interior

Inside, this theme continues with a unique and appropriately performance-oriented interior, dominated by bespoke, sculpted Recaro high-performance sports seats, specially designed and trimmed for excellent support, even when driving enthusiastically. Each is colour-matched to the exterior, with ebony leather accents and 'RS' and 'Recaro' logos stitched into each backrest.

Elsewhere, colour brings new excitement to the Focus interior, building on the sporty interior theme of Focus ST with more use of accents matched to the exterior colour, brushed aluminium highlights and overt performance styling. Even the rear seats feature higher side bolsters and a microfibre finish to echo those up front.

The centre console is finished in a stylish gloss, carbon-look trim and metallic highlights abound, from air vents, door grab handles, switchgear and gearshift surround, to unique RS-branded scuff plates on the door sills. These highlights contrast with a black-trimmed roof lining, emphasising the sporty, cockpit feel.

The driver is reminded this is a special Focus at every touch, with a gear lever finished with a six speed gear shift graphic in RS blue, a sporty, three-spoke steering wheel, finished with 'Ford' and 'RS' logos and even aluminium foot pedals. The performance driving environment is completed by three additional gauges from the Focus ST, including turbo pressure, sitting atop the centre console and angled toward the driver's eyeline.

Powerful RS heart

At the heart of the all-new Ford Focus RS is a specially developed, turbocharged version of the Duratec 2.5-litre 5-cylinder engine. Significantly revised for high performance, this powerplant is targeting an impressive power output of 300PS and over 410Nm of torque, contributing to an excellent power-to-weight ratio.

Such significant increases are not simply the result of altering engine management or boost pressure: starting with the Duratec 2.5-litre block, Ford RS engineers developed unique camshafts, a revised cylinder head and gasket and revised intake and manifold system for the car.

Although the car is still in development, prior to its launch in early 2009, early performance testing indicates a 0-100km/h (0-62mph) time of under six seconds.

A traction 'Revo'-lution

Throughout Ford Focus RS' development, Capito and his team have been keeping a sharp focus on creating a car that delivers excellent performance and traction.

Various innovations, developed as a result of customer feedback from previous performance Fords, have allowed engineers to keep the new Ford Focus RS as front-wheel drive, with a limited-slip differential, while still achieving demanding targets for traction, handling and steering.

The new Ford Focus RS is equipped with an innovative front suspension system known as a 'RevoKnuckle', which is designed to reduce unwanted steering disturbance and torque steer, the impact of torque on steering in front-wheel driven vehicles. Torque steer occurs during hard acceleration, cornering or driving on uneven surfaces, when torque on the driven wheels exceeds grips levels. It is characterised by sudden turning force on the steering wheel and can be exacerbated by vehicles with wide tyres and limited-slip differentials.

In Ford Focus RS, the RevoKnuckle works in conjunction with a Quaife Automatic Torque Biasing limited-slip differential. Ford Team RS engineers have worked closely with Ford's Advanced Research Centre in Aachen, Germany to develop the RevoKnuckle technology specifically for the high performance Focus RS. It allows the simplicity of a traditional McPherson strut arrangement, but with geometry settings that minimize steering disturbances and torque steer, principally a reduction in steering offset.

"The Ford Focus is an excellent base for a high performance car - agile, responsive and stable," explained Capito. "We studied at length how best to enhance these qualities for a high performance model. Our work has shown clearly that our approach in combining a tuned RevoKnuckle with the Quaife differential is an ideal solution for a high performance front-wheel-drive road car like Ford Focus RS.

"As you would expect, we gave all-wheel-drive careful consideration, but by combining and tuning these elements and learning from Ford's expertise in industry-leading handling, we have managed to eliminate the weight of AWD from the car and still have been able to target a class-leading balance of traction, handling and performance.

"The result is a lightweight set-up, that will deliver the right blend of traction and razor sharp controllability - in a way no one would have expected from front-wheel-drive, and we believe we have made the right choice," Capito concluded.

Dynamic, agile and responsive

A genuine Focus RS must maintain and enhance the reputation for responsive, precise handling for which Focus is acclaimed and considerable engineering effort has ensured that the new Ford Focus RS will do just that.

Driving quality developments for Ford Focus RS include a 40mm wider track, stronger, longer driveshafts, revised springs and dampers and a thicker, longer rear anti-roll bar. At the same time, the steering system has been retuned to provide an even sharper steering response and very precise feedback.

Brakes also have been uprated, with 336mm ventilated front discs and 300mm rear discs generating vice-like stopping power on road or track. Large calipers peek out from behind unique 19-inch wheels, wrapped in 235/35 low profile Continental tyres.

A special version of Ford's ESP system has also been developed for Ford Focus RS, designed to allow a very sporty driving style before activating. Intensive work to refine the natural handling abilities of the car has allowed the ESP system to carry a full de-activation option for enthusiast drivers and especially for track use.

"We are refining all the handling characteristics of Focus RS without ESP, to hone its natural responses, rather than use ESP to help its handling. In Ford Focus RS, ESP is a pure safety device", explained Capito.

Reliable and durable

In creating the new Ford Focus RS, Ford's Team RS engineers have had to meet the same stringent targets for durability and reliability as those set for the rest of the Focus range.

Despite its many bespoke engineering and styling elements, Ford Focus RS will be built entirely on the main Focus production line in Saarlouis, Germany and offered with a standard Ford of Europe warranty.

A great heritage

The new Ford Focus RS represents a significant moment in the heritage of both the Focus and Ford RS brands.

It is 10 years since the Ford Focus was first revealed to the world at the Geneva Motor Show in 1998, paving the way for a range of Ford vehicles whose exciting design was matched by class-leading driving quality. Since this time, more than 5.3 million Ford Focus models have been built in Europe, including Russia, with the car also built and sold in North America and Asia.

At the same time, the new Ford Focus RS marks the return of the famous but rare Ford RS badge, last seen on the first-generation Focus RS in 2002 and with a distinguished heritage stretching back 38 years including Fiesta, Escort and Sierra models.

"RS is uniquely important to us in terms of our performance heritage and World Rally Championship success, while the Focus has played a major part in establishing Ford's excellent reputation for driving dynamics," said John Fleming, Ford of Europe President and CEO. "The all-new Ford Focus RS will embrace and celebrate both of these - it will be a genuine RS and a genuine Focus and I'm confident it won't disappoint in either area".

Minggu, 04 Mei 2008

The New Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR












Ford and Shelby Automobiles are at it again, this time in celebration of the fortieth anniversary of the 1968 Shelby Cobra GT500KR. Unveiled at the 2007 New York International Auto Show, the 2008 Shelby GT500KR — the most powerful Mustang to date — will once again mark Mustang as 'King of the Road.'

"I'm proud to once again be a part of an historical moment, bringing back the 'King of the Road' Mustang, and collaborating with Ford SVT and Ford Racing" said Carroll Shelby. "I'm committed to continuously upping the ante when it comes to performance, and it's great to be doing it with Ford." "The return of the Shelby GT500KR further establishes Mustang as the true king of the pony car segment," said Robert Parker, manager of Ford Car Brand. "With the unveiling of the new KR we are staying true to the promise we made our loyal Mustang fans to continue Mustang's prowess by bringing new, exciting and more powerful Mustangs to market."

Forty years ago, at the 1967 New York Auto Show, Ford introduced the most powerful Shelby Mustang ever. Like every Mustang that bore the name 'Shelby,' the GT500KR carries with it its own unique story.

The 1968 Shelby Cobra GT500KR was a mid-year introduction, based on the 1968 Shelby GT500. Ford added 'Cobra' to the Shelby's moniker to help usher in the beginning of a new performance era at the company. The Cobra name referred to the new 428 Cobra Jet V-8 that was planted under the KR's custom fiberglass hood. It was the engine that would once again vault the Mustang to the head of the pack.

The KR's 5.4-liter V-8 Gets the Royal Treatment

Just like its namesake, the 2008 'King of the Road' packs a walloping dose of Ford performance power under its massive composite hood scoops. The Ford SVT-engineered 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 is treated to a Ford Racing Power Upgrade Pack that boosts horsepower to an estimated 540 and torque to 510 ft.-lbs., thanks to revised ignition and throttle calibration and a cold air intake system that replaces the stock unit.

Calibration modifications include advancing the ignition timing as well as re-mapping of the electronic throttle settings to provide quicker throttle response for better off-line and mid-range acceleration. Increased throttle response will be met with a sharper roar from the Ford Racing-inspired exhaust system.

Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission and 3.73:1 rear axle ratio, upgraded from the standard GT500's 3.31:1. Gear selection is courtesy of an all-new Ford Racing short-throw shifter making its debut on the KR. Topped with a white ball, the new shifter is 25 percent shorter than the unit on the GT500 providing for crisper, sharper shifts.

Ford SVT, Ford Racing and Team Shelby worked together to develop the KR's suspension tuning. Based on initial work by Ford Racing and the team at Shelby, often at Shelby's own facility on the grounds of Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Ford SVT chassis engineers will apply fine tuning techniques to prepare it for the streets.

"The production Shelby GT500 was maximized to deliver the perfect balance between ride and handling," said Jamal Hameedi, chief nameplate engineer, Ford SVT. "In that same ride versus handling continuum, the KR will lean heavier towards all-out handling while still making it drivable on the street."

Chassis engineers worked closely with the engine department in a holistic approach to the development of the KR, tuning the suspension to best optimize the engine enhancements.

"We aren't fixing our attention on one or two attributes, but working on the vehicle as a whole," stated Gary Patterson, vice president of operations for Shelby Automobiles. "The throttle response, power delivery, exhaust note, and handling should all gel together to deliver a total driving experience."

The GT500KR will feature unique spring rates, dampers, stabilizer bars, and strut tower brace, all designed specifically for the KR, to deliver the precision handling package.

2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR - Specifications and Design Highlights

  • 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 producing an estimated 540-horsepower and 510 ft.-lbs. of torque
  • Ford Racing Power Upgrade Pack featuring revised calibration and cold air intake system
  • 6-speed manual transmission with 3.73:1 rear axle ratio
  • Ford Racing performance exhaust system
  • Unique performance suspension tuning: springs, dampers, and stabilizer bars
  • Shelby-designed 'GT500KR' 20-inch wheels (18-inch version for production)
  • Ford Racing short-throw shifter and front strut tower brace
  • Unique carbon composite hood featuring classic Shelby 'KR' design
  • Front brake cooling ducts
  • 'Shelby' lettering across the front edge of hood and rear decklid
  • 40th Anniversary badges on the front quarter panels
  • Carroll Shelby signature embroidered headrests and floor mats
  • Official Shelby CSM 40th Anniversary GT500KR dash plate

Sabtu, 03 Mei 2008

The New Ford Mondeo












The distinctive, all-new Ford Mondeo introduces new technical features to the Ford range and combines these with further improved driving dynamics and safety enhancements.

With three distinctively different bodystyles each demonstrating Ford of Europe's 'kinetic design' form language, plus a broad choice of trim series, technical features and a wide range of powertrains, the new Ford Mondeo brings new levels of refinement and comfort to its class, and to the Ford of Europe portfolio.

"The Ford Mondeo has always been acclaimed for its strong attributes, particularly its driving dynamics, safety performance and interior package," said Steve Adams, Vehicle Line Director, Large & Luxury Cars, Ford of Europe. "With this remarkable new model we've taken these qualities a step further and enhanced its performance in all of these areas as well as dramatically transforming its design and quality."

The new Ford Mondeo benefits from Ford Motor Company's Global Shared Technologies initiative, sharing many elements of its core architecture with the

Ford S-MAX - Car of the Year 2007 - and the new generation Ford Galaxy. A major advantage to developing vehicles in this way is that much of the development and testing techniques are shared with other models.

Fresh Face

Immediately obvious when seen from the front is the new Ford Mondeo's distinctive 'face', which is characterised by its trapezoid-shaped lower grille, a 'kinetic design' element that is increasingly recognised as part of the new Ford identity and which is already evident on several recent Ford models, including the S-MAX and the recently redesigned Ford C-MAX.

The large upper grille is flanked by prominent, swept back headlamps. Series differentiation is evident in the detail of the grilles with the Ghia and Ghia X models recognisable by the use of three horizontal bars featuring chrome accents in the upper grille, and the Titanium and Titanium X models featuring a silver-painted 'rectangular grid' design in the upper and lower grilles. Both high series have chrome surrounds on the upper and lower grilles. Ambiente and Trend models feature a 'rectangular grid' design in black for both grilles, with the upper grille surrounded by a bright chrome finisher.

Due to the location of the sensor, vehicles fitted with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) exhibit the grille combinations as used on the Titanium model.

The headlamps comprise the largest surface area ever used on a Ford passenger car and feature distinctive styling cues of their own; special blue filters on the optional Halogen and Bi-Xenon Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) headlamps give gem-like qualities even when the headlamps are on the lowest sidelight illumination.

The bonnet includes two shaped grooves in the surface which, in effect, create a 'power bulge', hinting at the dynamic qualities of the car. The additional bonnet height was viewed by the design team as a positive addition to the exterior design and adds to the car's muscular proportions in all three bodystyles.

Viewed from above, the Mondeo's front three-plane-plan view is immediately evident, providing a clear link between the production vehicle and the definitive expression of 'kinetic design' - the Ford iosis concept car - first revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2005.

The smooth swept-back 'chamfered' lines of the front bumper give the car a sense of presence, reduce the visual impact of the front overhang and serve to assist the driver when parking.

The front fog lamps are situated low down in the front bumper from Trend series upwards and mirror the line of the headlamps, which adds to the emotional experience of the new Ford Mondeo adding a touch of jewellery to the dramatic front end appearance.

Craftsmanship

New and premium levels of craftsmanship are evident throughout the new Ford Mondeo.

On Ghia and Titanium models a new woven headlining is used that, in a design choice to reflect the flow-through console, continues down the A-pillars to frame the front screen.

The careful use of 'piano black' interior styling accents also adds to the ensemble and creates additional interest and a high quality tactile feel to key touch areas. The flow-through centre console is finished in a variety of contrasting finishes depending on series and soft-touch material is used extensively throughout the cabin to emphasise the quality and refinement of the interior.

The primary shade of the instrument panel on Ambiente models is black, while on the other series customers can choose from either black, blue or biscuit colourways, complementing seat and trim options. Both instrument panel and doors feature additional trim accents according to series level, ranging from a dark shade of wood effect veneer on the Ghia and Ghia X models to brushed chrome on Titanium and Titanium X models.

Perfect Choice for Performance and Efficiency

New Ford Mondeo customers can choose from a wide variety of powertrains including frugal Duratorq diesels and the range-topping 220 PS 2.5-litre Duratec 5-cylinder petrol unit as used in the Ford S-MAX and based on the engine of the high-performance Ford Focus ST.

Key advancements in the powertrain line-up for the new Ford Mondeo include:

  • Latest state-of-the-art clutch
  • Dual-mass-flywheel matched systems technology
  • Upgraded hi-tech electronic engine management systems together with an electronic throttle for precision torque control every millisecond
  • Highly efficient integrated radiator/intercooler/condenser heat exchanger packages
  • Duratorq diesel engines employ sophisticated high pressure multiple injection techniques to smooth out the combustion process, controlling cylinder pressure rise rates and providing the ultimate in smooth NVH and clean emissions performance

Mondeo petrol engine choice includes Ford's light and efficient 1.6-litre Duratec Ti-VCT technology petrol engine - used in Mondeo for the first time - equipped with a Ford Durashift iB5 5-speed transmission.

From late 2007, the range will be expanded with a new 2.3-litre Duratec HE 161 PS 4-cylinder petrol unit, coupled to the new Durashift 6-speed automatic transmission featuring a Sport mode. This changes gear at higher engine revs and also allows the driver to adjust their individual driving style by changing to manual mode for a more involved driving experience.

Additional petrol units are the 2.0-litre 145 PS unit mated to the MTX-75 5-speed manual transmission and the range-topping 2.5-litre 220 PS engine coupled to the M66 6-speed manual transmission.

The Duratorq diesel line-up starts with a refined 100 PS, 1.8-litre Duratorq TDCi coupled to Ford's Durashift 5-speed manual transmission. A 125 PS version of the 1.8-litre Duratorq TDCi is also available with a choice of the Durashift 5-speed or Durashift 6-speed manual transmission. Ford's popular 130 PS 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi engine with standard Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is also available and can be specified with a choice of Ford's Durashift 6-speed manual transmission or, from late 2007, the new 6-speed automatic transmission. A high output 140 PS 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi engine with standard DPF is also available with Ford's Durashift 6-speed manual transmission.

Mondeo Safety Systems

The new Ford Mondeo features an impressive no-compromise array of active and passive safety technologies. The basic foundation for these features is the car's ultra-stiff body structure, which reduces the deformation of the passenger safety cell. The new Ford Mondeo also features a new airbag for the driver's knee area and a horizontal stroking steering column which together have further enhanced Ford's acclaimed Intelligent Protection System (IPS).

Safety is a key focus for Ford engineers when new models are developed. The target is to achieve optimised protection for all the car's passengers through the use of active and passive safety systems. Active safety systems are intended to aid the driver in avoiding a collision, while passive safety systems protect the passengers and help reduce and avoid injuries.

It is recognised that Ford's models are performing at their best ever level in independent crash testing in both left and right hand drive versions

"This is a family car and family cars need to have a level of safety that firmly and safely protects all people that sit in the car," said Gisbert Gäb, Manager, Vehicle Safety. "We employ a holistic approach and we have integrated safety into nearly everything in the car. For every detail we have endeavoured to make the safety as good as possible."

Senin, 21 April 2008

The New Ford Fiesta S












In a blast of Passion Orange, Ford proudly revealed its all-new global small car - the Ford Fiesta - as a vibrant five-door hatch. The all-new Ford Fiesta has been reinvented for a new generation of customers.

Designed and developed in Europe for sale in Europe, Asia, South Africa, Australia and the Americas between 2008 and 2010, the all-new Fiesta is the first major product of Ford's new global product development process.

The all-new Ford Fiesta's dynamic character is accentuated by its bold kinetic design. Its distinct character is further accentuated with major strides in craftsmanship, quality of materials and product choice while continuing to represent Ford Fiesta's traditional strengths of practicality, value for money, agility and safety.

All- new Ford Fiesta clearly embodies the exterior hallmarks of kineticdesign, which has so convincingly infused emotion into the core of the Ford range in Europe and Asia.

The reveal in Europe in March of the three-door and five-door Fiesta hatch and now the China reveal of the five-door Fiesta hatch confirm that all-new Ford Fiesta will bring the most appealing elements of Verve Concept to production reality.

"I've been saying just wait for the all-new Fiesta to see how kinetic design can be translated into a small car," said Martin Smith, Executive Director of Design for Ford of Europe. "Now the wait is over. New Fiesta evokes an instant emotional response that says 'I want one' which extends the traditionally practical values of the Fiesta brand to appeal to a new, style-conscious generation of small car buyers."

Bold, Dynamic, Sculpted

The bold colours and sculpted surfaces of the all-new Ford Fiesta indicate how deeply the spirit of the Verve Concept has been carried into production as the latest model of Ford's kinetic design family.

Exciting and vibrant production colours include the Beijing reveal colour of Passion Orange and the bright Lightning Yellow to awaken Fiesta's bold and independent character.

The muscular, coupé-like profile and athletic presence of the all-new Fiesta demonstrates that none of the emotional appeal of the concept cars has been diluted in the production-ready five-door Fiesta hatch.

"All the vital elements of kinetic design combine to create a visually rich, dynamic exterior shape that is very close indeed to the original concept car," said Martin Smith, Ford of Europe's Executive Director for Design. "Full surfaces, bold graphics and dynamic lines combine coherently and harmoniously to create a dynamic spirit of fun and energy in motion."

With a feeling of toned muscularity, the all-new Ford Fiesta asserts an air of confidence, stylishness and individuality. Its aggressively contoured bonnet and front fenders convey a broad-shouldered stance, and its face features a distinctive signature element - a bold lower trapezoidal grille that draws attention and reinforces the key Ford attribute of sporty driving dynamics.

Chrome and brightwork are used selectively, like jewellery accents, to convey elegance and sophistication.

Large and full of character directly from the Verve concepts, Fiesta's bold headlamps become part of the shoulder shape and extend aggressively rearward almost as far as the stylishly raked A-pillars. The headlamp units incorporate all primary front lighting and signal functions - complemented on the lower bumper flanks by round, optimal aluminium lamps.

The all-new Ford Fiesta's profile emphasises its new, cab-forward shape and an attitude of poised, sporty style. The sweeping roofline extends appealingly from the forward-stretching A-pillar rearward, framing the bold graphic of the Fiesta side window profile to create the sporty feeling of a coupé for the five-door body style.

The Fiesta side windows combine to create a unified profile window graphic - a key kinetic design element that communicates dynamism. An elegant accent of chrome frames the lower edge of the side glass and accentuates the signature Ford "kick-up" at its rear.

The all-new Fiesta also features the signature bold wheel arches that communicate the vehicle's stance and dynamic capabilities, giving visual emphasis to new large-diameter alloy wheels.

Dynamic, kinetic design lines arc from side to side, uniting the upper corners of the tail lamps with the distinctive spoiler, which incorporates a slim LED stop lamp array. The sculpture of the body shapes is accented by elements like the new tail lamp - another Verve element that feels like it is an integral part of the body - and the V-shaped tailgate's chamfered rear glass.

Full technical details of the new Fiesta will be released closer to the formal launching of the production model before the end of 2008.