Ford’s centenary rally celebrated at Goodwood revival with largest-ever vehicle parade

The month-long Ford Centenary Tour – a celebration of 100 years of Ford of Britain – was brought to a fitting finale at the weekend when over 100 Ford vehicles came together for the largest-ever vehicle cavalcade at the historic Goodwood Circuit in West Sussex.

This spectacular celebration of the 100th anniversary of Ford of Britain was flagged-off by Ford’s chief financial officer, Lewis Booth, with Ford of Britain chairman, Joe Greenwell, riding in the Ford Consul in the lead.



Several of Ford’s iconic Model T vehicles were in a line-up of classic cars that included the 1966 Le Mans 24-hour race-winning Ford GT Mk II; the 1970 London to Mexico World Cup rally-winning Ford Escort Mk I; and the 1912 all-Ford-race winner at Brooklands.

Other vehicles included in the exciting line-up included a clutch of classic Transits, the “newest” vehicle in the fleet, a 1971 Ford GT70, and the famous Ford Anglia 105E, a star in the film “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets”.

Joe Greenwell, Ford of Britain chairman, said: “I am delighted to be a part of the Ford of Britain Centenary Rally at this year’s Goodwood Revival. The diverse range of Ford cars and commercial vehicles driving around the circuit is testament to Ford’s strong relationship to the UK.”


As well as the Ford of Britain Centenary Parade, two Ford GT40 course cars were on show, while a retro-themed Ford exhibition in the ‘Earls Court Motorshow’ area highlighted Henry Ford’s 1896 Quadricycle as well as the latest Ford Focus and Ford Grand C-MAX.

The Goodwood Revival is the world’s most popular, historic motor race meeting of its kind, continuing to attract legendary names such as Sir Jackie Stewart, Sir Stirling Moss, Derek Bell and Gerhard Berger as racing, tradition, fashion and entertainment come together in a vibrant display.

| Ford

Ford reveals Ford Fiesta ST concept at Frankfurt: previews future high-performance Fiesta

Ford is revealing its vision for a future high-performance Fiesta ST at the 2011 IAA Frankfurt Motor Show. The Ford Fiesta ST Concept signals the next step in Ford Motor Company’s global performance vehicle strategy and hints at how a future Fiesta ST performance model might look when it joins the Focus ST in the global Ford small car portfolio.

The Fiesta ST Concept combines eye-catching, muscular and sporty styling with a dynamic sports chassis and a high-performance powertrain capable of delivering impressive fuel economy with low CO2 emissions.

A global Fiesta ST would continue the proud, 35-year Fiesta history of delivering high performance thrills to small car customers. Iconic past models have included the Fiesta XR2 and XR2i, Fiesta RS1800 and RS Turbo and more recently the first generation Fiesta ST.



The bold and distinctive new three-door Fiesta ST Concept embodies the spirit of Fiesta’s high-performance history while infusing the latest model with dynamic, futuristic looks and innovative technology.

“The Fiesta has a rich history of high-performance models so a new ST performance model is a logical next step in our performance vehicle strategy for our global small cars,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. “The Fiesta ST Concept continues that tradition by showing how a global performance version of our best-selling B-car can be both technically advanced and dramatically styled.

“With a racing silhouette inspired by the global Fiesta race and rally cars currently competing on the world stage, and influenced by the unique appearance of the all-new Focus ST, the new Fiesta ST Concept is an exciting demonstration of the road-going Fiesta’s future potential.”


WRC-inspired, EcoBoost-powered
With the Fiesta RS World Rally Car and Fiesta Rallycross cars currently demonstrating the potential of Ford’s global small car in the toughest of international motorsport events, there could be no better time for Ford to offer customers a glimpse of what is also technically possible with the road-going Fiesta.

Like Ford’s World Rally Championship contender, the Fiesta RS WRC, Fiesta ST Concept uses a 1.6-litre Ford EcoBoost petrol engine to deliver performance every bit as breathtaking as the vehicle’s striking design.

The use of a 1.6-litre turbocharged unit in the Fiesta ST Concept and Ford’s EcoBoost downsizing strategy in general reflects not only the current WRC engine guidelines, but also the trend within international motorsport to deliver greater fuel economy through technical advancement.

As with all engines in the EcoBoost family, the Fiesta ST Concept’s advanced engine combines turbocharging and direct injection to deliver the powerful performance of a larger capacity traditional petrol engine.

Like the 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine that will power the forthcoming Ford Focus ST, the 1.6-litre EcoBoost in the Fiesta ST Concept also features Twin-independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) and has been specially developed to provide power and torque worthy of the ST badge.

For the Fiesta ST Concept, the 1.6-litre Ford EcoBoost engine achieves a target power output of 180PS with 240Nm of torque, enough to propel the concept vehicle from 0-100km/h in less than 7 seconds. A top speed exceeding 220km/h is possible.

Yet the advanced design of the turbocharged, 4-cylinder engine – connected to a 6-speed manual transmission – means the Fiesta ST Concept is also able to deliver target CO2 emissions of lower than 140g/km.

Improving fuel economy and emissions remains one of the driving factors behind Ford’s continuing development of the EcoBoost engine family, with the Fiesta ST Concept proving that responsible and attractive fuel economy need not come at the expense of performance.


Bold Design
The Fiesta ST’s bold and assertive styling makes an immediate impression and drives home the high performance message with a number of striking features and design themes. The large, distinctive trapezoidal grille echoes a key feature of its larger sibling, the new Focus ST, and incorporates a honeycomb mesh design.

At the rear a dramatic diffuser design leaves no doubt as to the sporting credentials of the Fiesta ST Concept. The diffuser also envelops a twin exit exhaust.

A lowered stance, widened wheel arches filled with 17-inch alloy wheels and full ST body kit mirror the styling of the Ford Fiesta WRC competition car – an alluring form that also delivers racing functionality.

An all-new exterior paint colour in Europe – Molten Orange, as featured in the North American Ford SVT F-150 Raptor pickup – reinforces the invigorating, racing spirit of the Fiesta ST Concept.

This theme is continued inside the high-contrast sports interior which includes Recaro sports seats for the driver and front passenger.

Motorsport-influenced performance and handling
Taking inspiration from Ford’s competition Fiestas in the World Rally Championship (WRC), Global Rallycross Championship (GRC), European Rallycross Championship (ERC) and X Games, the Ford Global Performance Vehicles group has developed the Fiesta ST Concept to deliver uncompromised sports performance and handling.

Tuned suspension geometry ensures dynamic and competent handling that can flatter less-experienced drivers while rewarding those seeking to push the limits of the Fiesta ST’s sports performance.

“With the Focus ST we promised to deliver uncompromised sports performance and styling to a truly global audience for the first time, without sacrificing Ford’s key values of Smart, Safe, Quality and Green. With the Fiesta ST Concept we are demonstrating that our Global Performance Plan has legs,” said Jost Capito, Ford's director of Global Performance Vehicles.

“The Fiesta ST Concept shows in the most dramatic way possible that the qualities that define an ST are not limited to one model. The potential for delivering the ST experience to an even wider audience are laid bare by this striking new concept.”

| Ford

Ford Racing reveals Ford Focus ST-R

As the all-new Focus ST road car makes its global production debut, Ford is giving a European welcome at the Frankfurt Motor Show to a special motorsport counterpart – the race-tweaked, production-based Focus ST-R.

Despite its close resemblance to the Focus ST road car, the Focus ST-R is purpose-built for the track by Ford Racing in North America as a fully-prepared competition car. It features a powerful 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine, FIA regulation roll cage, uprated brakes and track-tuned suspension.

It will be available to teams soon, starting in North America, to race in a variety of series.



The all-new Focus ST-R has been crafted by engineers at Ford Racing – with technical support from Ford’s Global Performance Vehicles group – to allow it to compete in a huge variety of series, including Grand-Am ST, World Challenge TC and Canadian Touring Car Series. Ford also hopes teams will race the car in key European motorsport series and major national events such as the 24 Hours of Nürburgring.

Its linkage to the new Focus ST road car is no accident.

“From the beginning, the Focus and new Focus ST were designed to be driver's cars,” saidJost Capito, director of Global Performance Vehicles and Motorsport Business Development.“The road-going Focus features best-in-class brakes, handling and powertrains and thedesign and functionality of the various vehicle systems have helped us to develop a global technical specification for teams wanting to race the new Focus cost effectively. Ford Racing in North America has taken this effort and developed the new Focus ST-R and is a perfect example of how a great production car inspires a competitive race car for enthusiasts.”

Initially homologated for American and Canadian touring car racing, Focus ST-R will be available to order from Ford dealers in North America by seasoned hardcore professional drivers, amateur racers and track day enthusiasts as well. Ford’s vision is to broaden availability to additional regions in the future.

“We’re thrilled to be taking the Focus ST-R from concept to reality for motorsport enthusiasts initially in North America and potentially around the world,” said Jamie Allison, director, Ford Racing. “The previous turn-key race cars we developed for North American racing have been hugely successful, so we are hopeful that the ST-R will be the first such vehicle for global series and as a direct result of the company's global platform strategy and our technical support program for motorsport applications of Focus and Fiesta models.

“This is a competitive turn key race car that will allow our customers to compete successfully in multiple series around the world with minor modifications. And it shows the on-going alignment of Ford Racing with our Performance Vehicles development group.”

“Because the Focus ST-R is a production-based road race car, it features stock body panels and production parts where possible,” added Allison. “People who buy one will get will get a fully prepared race car that will only need communications equipment and the customer's decals to go racing. We've already had significant interest in this vehicle from numerous established race teams."

For North American customers, the Ford Focus ST-R is the latest in a long-line of turn-key race cars offered by the company including the Mustang FR500C, Mustang FR500S, Mustang Cobra Jet, Boss 302R and Boss 302S. The ST-R offers clear links to the Focus ST road car.

Development work on the Focus ST-R will also result in a range of Ford Racing parts to be made available to racers and enthusiasts around the world.


Focus Role in Ford’s Global Motorsport Strategy
The Frankfurt debut of the Focus ST-R is part of an aggressive motorsport presence for Ford, as its strategy to support motorsport development across its core global vehicle platforms gains traction. Ford is applying engineering and development expertise for vehicles like Focus ST-R to spur success in competition similar to that being enjoyed by the Fiesta in RallyCross and the X Games.

“Just as we are developing performance cars from our vehicle platforms with global customers in mind, we’re taking the same platform approach with motorsport,” said Capito. “The intent is to leverage our central motorsport engineering expertise to get competitive hardware in the hands of private teams and racers all around the world, and the Focus ST-R is the latest proof.”

The global Focus race car development – a major plank in Ford’s new global motorsport strategy – is based on international S2000 regulations. Focus ST-R adds momentum to the new Focus motorsport story launched by Team Aon in the British Touring Car Championship.

Both the Team Aon Focus BTCC car and the new Focus ST-R are evidence of a Ford strategy with global ambitions to help privateers to be competitive on all levels.

Ford launched its global motorsport development program last year. At its core is technical support for privateers who chose to compete with global Ford vehicles with access to affordable, globally competitive hardware.

“We're delighted with the early success Team Aon has achieved with the new Focus in the BTCC and we are looking forward to seeing the ST-R on the track soon in global race series," Capito said. "We expect to see the ST-R competing for wins on a global scale, extending the rich racing and rallying heritage Focus has already gained both on tarmac and on dirt.”


Fiesta Also Benefitting
According to Capito, the growing success of Fiesta in motorsport is also a product of the unique global Ford motorsport strategy.

The Fiesta Rallycross – powered by a 2.0-litre Duratec Ford engine capable of more than 500PS – is another example of Ford’s global motorsport approach, as it competes in the Global Rallycross Championship, European Rallycross Championship and X Games.

This year, Ford and Fiesta dominated the inaugural Global RallyCross Championship as Ford captured the manufacturers' and drivers’ championships. Fiesta drivers Tanner Foust and Marcus Gronholm finished 1-2 in the overall GRC championship as well as capturing the individual SuperRally and RallyCross championships. Last month at X Games 17 in Los Angeles, Brian Deegan led Foust and Gronholm in a Fiesta sweep of the RallyCross podium, a “3-peat” for Fiesta in the Rally competition at X Games.

| Ford

New Ford Focus ST production model and ST Wagon for Europe

The covers finally came off the production version of the dramatic new Focus ST five-door today at the Frankfurt Motor Show, revealing the performance car that enthusiasts around the globe are waiting for.

European customers can also choose a stylish wagon version of the Focus ST, which will launch alongside the five-door model in 2012.

The Focus ST is Ford’s first truly global performance car, building on the heritage of previous Focus ST models in Europe and evolving it to allow drivers around the world to experience and enjoy the exhilarating performance, unrivaled handling, addictive sound and muscular sports design that the ST badge represents.



With innovative design and technology throughout, the new Focus ST will be more powerful and surprisingly fuel efficient, raising the bar once again when it comes to handling too. For drivers who want refinement for everyday use but with exhilarating performance on tap, the passion, enthusiasm and expertise of Ford’s Global Performance Vehicles group shines through and makes the new Focus ST the most rewarding and obvious choice.

“The new Focus ST is a really exciting car for Ford,” said Jost Capito, director of Global Performance Vehicles. “It’s the first performance model to build upon the design and technology strengths of one of our new global production vehicles. It’s a car built for driving enthusiasts all around the world and they will not be disappointed.”

The Ford ST Global DNA
Beneath the skin of the new Focus ST is a detailed DNA for the ST range, established in Ford’s exciting global performance car strategy. Working together, the Global Performance Vehicles group – made up of Ford Team RS in Europe and the Special Vehicles Team (SVT) in the United States, along with input from Ford experts in the Asia Pacific and Africa region – devised a strategy that all future global performance Ford cars will adhere to.

“Focus ST hasn’t come around by chance,” said Capito. “What came first was our global performance strategy, which has been developed with North America, Europe and Asia together. With this, the core DNA attributes like the steering, driving dynamics, the sound quality and the power enhancements for all ST models have all been defined to the extent that our engineers can take that global DNA fingerprint and use it to create the new Focus ST.”

Like all future ST models, the new Focus ST has key physical DNA attributes like the aggressively enhanced front and rear bumpers, the addition of a rear spoiler and sideskirts plus a unique signature colour.

In both five-door and wagon form, the scintillating Focus ST delivers the same driving attributes that makes all Ford ‘Sports Technologies’ models stand out amongst the competition. The chassis, engine, sound and comfort of the vehicle are tuned harmoniously to deliver a truly sporty experience with a level of refinement rarely seen in this sector of vehicle. These same attributes will form the genetic code for future models bearing the ST badge.


Ford’s First Global Performance Car
The One Ford approach to working together across geographic boundaries has already seen successful global launches of the Fiesta and new Focus for the company. This approach is the great enabler for performance versions to be readily developed for a global market.

“The new Focus is a fantastic car to develop an ST model from,” said Matthias Tonn, chief program engineer for the Focus ST. “It’s a solid shell with precise handling as standard, as customers around the world have already found out. It doesn’t compromise on any area in any region of the world, and Focus ST builds upon that strength to give our global performance customers the car they want, the car they have been asking for.”

According to Capito and Tonn, performance vehicle customers around the world desire the same things from a car no matter on what types of road or in what weather conditions they drive. This is the insight that Ford’s Global Performance Vehicles group gained and it forms the guiding principles for the company’s global performance car strategy.

Destined to reach over 40 markets on six continents, the five-door Focus ST will bring affordable, everyday performance to the world. Only the smallest changes – to meet with regional legislation – will be implemented. In effect, no matter where in the world a driver gets behind the wheel, the new Focus ST five-door will deliver the same sensation of power, poise and refinement as for anybody else across the globe.

For Europe, where wagon derivatives are extremely popular in many markets, the opportunity to develop a stylish ST Wagon as a niche model was irresistible.

“We know many European buyers favour the carrying capacity of a wagon, but still want the driving excitement and performance a five-door can offer,” said Tonn. “With such a stylish wagon in the new Focus range, we had the ideal basis on which to create a unique niche model for these customers – and it will be just as exciting to drive as the five-door.”

More Power and Economy
For global customers, Focus ST is powered by the 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost engine, which offers an uncompromising mix of performance and efficiency. Ford’s lightweight, all-aluminum EcoBoost engines provide the power of a larger engine in a fuel-efficient smaller displacement, utilising three key technologies.

High pressure direct injection, low-inertia turbocharging and Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing (Ti-VCT) all help to create an advanced combustion system which brings new levels of performance and fuel efficiency to Ford’s petrol engines.

Ford’s Global Performance Vehicles group has taken this technology and developed a 250PS high-output derivative of the 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost engine for Focus ST.

Redesigned intake and exhaust systems with unique engine calibration deliver the ideal level of power and responsiveness.

The engine has a maximum output of 250PS and strong torque levels in a broad, flat torque curve peaking at 360Nm. The responsive torque output, a trademark of Ford EcoBoost engines, is maintained despite the impressive peak figures.

Compared to the 2.5-litre, 5-cylinder engine in the previous-generation European Focus ST, the new 4-cylinder engine offers increased performance, but its smaller capacity and innovative technology also allow it to be more fuel efficient.

The EcoBoost 2.0 in the Focus ST is expected to cut both CO2 emissions and fuel consumption by more than 20 per cent from the previous-generation European model when fuel consumption data is certified.

“This is the first time we have used a 4-cylinder Ford EcoBoost engine in a high performance model and the results are phenomenal,” said Capito. “Drivers will have a lot of power and torque throughout the rev range to use. For everyday driving, though, the characteristics of this car will let them drive in a more fuel efficient way than previously, which is an essential part of the ST’s DNA.”

Mated to the 2.0-litre engine is a 6-speed manual transmission, which has specially revised gearing to produce the maximum punch from each throw of the gear shift. The Global Performance Vehicles group spent significant attention to detail to ensure the ratio of sixth gear was perfectly in tune with the Focus ST, giving the driver optimum performance while remaining long enough to help maintain excellent fuel economy on longer runs.


Sensational Sound
The previous generation Focus ST was acclaimed for its particularly sporty 5-cylinder engine sound. With the introduction of a 4-cylinder Ford EcoBoost engine into the new Focus ST, the Ford sound engineers were keen to ensure the audible delights from this totally different engine keep enthusiasts just as excited.

A significant part of this process is the reworking of the famed sound symposer, first found on the previous Focus ST and subsequently employed to devastating effect on the previous generation European Focus RS and RS500 models.

“People loved the sound of the previous Focus ST,” said Capito. “The physics and acoustics of a 5-cylinder engine compared to a 4-cylinder are very different, but like Beethoven and Mozart – both of whom created fantastic yet very different music – we believe the engine note of the new Focus ST will delight enthusiasts in the same way.”

It’s not only the engine note that sounds fantastic on the new Focus ST. The exhaust system – with unique centre exit tailpipes – has been tuned to deliver a perfectly balanced audible experience. Enthusiastic drivers will be rewarded with an orchestra of sporty sounds to heighten their driving adventure, but should they want a more relaxing drive, the refinement of the cabin and tuning of exhaust and engine note will give them exactly that at lower RPM.

Unprecedented Driving Dynamics
Incredible driving dynamics are at the heart of the Focus ST. Innovation and technology combine to create a chassis capable of exceeding the expectations of even the most demanding driving enthusiast, while giving even novice motorists an unforgettable drive.

From the driver’s seat, customers will experience the newly-developed Ford Sport Steering System. This variable ratio steering rack is designed to increase the agility of the Focus ST on winding roads yet still inspire the same high-speed confidence.

The unique system makes steering less sensitive when driving in a straight line, but increases the sensitivity during cornering. Drivers can keep their hands firmly gripped on the steering wheel through tight hairpins, maximising their control over the vehicle. It also has benefits in slow-speed situations such as tight parking manoeuvres, with less input needed from the driver to direct the vehicle into the space.

The Focus ST’s Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) is also enhanced with Ford’s Torque Steer Compensation (TSC) system.

More aggressive tuning of the TSC allows Focus ST drivers to accelerate at full throttle and yet still find grip on roads with uneven surfaces or uneven levels of grip. The TSC system detects the torque steer that those conditions can create and communicates with the EPAS software, which then counteracts the effect to virtually eliminate the sensation for the driver.

Further enhancements have also been made to the Focus ST’s Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), with emphasis put on driver enjoyment. Drivers will have three modes of ESP to choose from. These can be selected according to weather and road conditions or simply to match the driver’s desire for help from additional driving aids.

In the first instance the ESP works much the same way as the innovative system found in the base model Focus, although for the ST it is tuned to be non-intrusive to the driver. This standard mode supports the driver on all surfaces, whether dry, wet or snowy, giving them the confidence to drive safely no matter what the weather.

The driver can opt to select the second mode, called reduced or wide-slip mode, in which the traction control is turned off. Traction is handled by the driver here, while the ESP is programmed to intrude only as absolutely necessary.

Of course, the ESP system can also be switched off completely resulting in the Focus ST in its purest form, giving full control of the sublime chassis to the driver when is a position to exploit it, such as on a race track. Only the sub-features such as the Enhanced Dynamic Cornering Control (EDCC) remain active, optimising the enjoyment of the Focus ST’s abilities.


Enhanced Torque Vectoring Control
Through the corners, Enhanced Torque Vectoring Control is an essential help for Focus ST drivers, a tuned version of the Torque Vectoring Control found in the base model Focus. The standard system uses torque vectoring by braking, in which brake torque is applied to the inner wheel of the Focus through a corner, reducing the understeer behaviour and allowing for more traction, much like a traditional limited slip differential.

The Focus ST system applies this more aggressively and also adds Cornering Under Steer Control (CUSC), which applies torque to create yaw torque based on the vehicle’s understeer behavior prior to ESP, both in power-on and power-off conditions. Combined, they ensure that Enhanced Torque Vectoring Control is a crucial element in helping the front-wheel-drive Focus ST be a true driver’s machine, able to tackle any corner with supreme confidence.

Sports Suspension
Working in harmony with the advanced driver assistance features is the finely tuned suspension setup of the new Focus ST. Uprated shock absorbers and springs lower the ST chassis by 10mm for a more aggressive stance while the centre of gravity is brought closer to the road, which aids precise cornering.

The rear suspension has been revised with a number of new parts developed specifically for the Focus ST. Key components are the uprated suspension knuckles and an all-new anti-roll bar design, both the result of the development team’s desire to give drivers an outstanding amount of feedback and control.

The rear suspension of the five-door and the wagon versions of Focus ST differ slightly. The wagon features angled shock absorbers – as in the base model – to maintain the optimum amount of capacity in the luggage compartment.

Ultimately, both Focus ST bodystyles offer the same handling characteristics that will have drivers searching out twisty roads.

Iconic Alloy Wheels
The iconic Y-shaped spoke design of the previous generation Focus ST has evolved for the new incarnation. A set of 18-inch alloy wheels carry on the recognised Focus ST style but subtle revisions bring them up-to-date for 2012.

ST customers will now have an additional ‘Performance Pack’ option which offers the wheels in black with a high contrast red finish on the performance brake calipers.

Wrapped around the alloy wheels are high performance 235/40R18 Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 tyres, developed after rigorous testing on all kind of road surfaces and conditions, including the infamous Nürburgring Nordschleife in Germany.

“The same tyres will be offered on the Focus ST in every country,” said Tonn. “They are designed to extract the best performance from the car on all road conditions. They don’t compromise on performance and get the best out of the chassis and driver systems of the vehicle.”


Bold and Muscular Outside
Globally the new Focus ST will be available in five-door hatchback bodystyle with European markets also able to order the newly-revealed wagon version. Both models build on the striking kinetic design of the standard Focus, yet add the muscular presence and specific performance cues associated with a Ford ST model.

The performance intent of the Focus ST is evident even from a glance. The new signature production colour, Tangerine Scream, reflects the exciting and energetic character of the Focus ST, but even in the other available colours – Performance Blue, Race Red and White – the car will shout performance. This is emphasised by the bold and muscular styling of the Focus ST.

“The changes we have made to deliver superior aerodynamics and vehicle performance have made the new Focus ST even more sporty and distinctive,” explained Martin Smith, executive design director, Ford of Europe. “Exciting new design treatments at the front and rear give the ST a more dynamic and purposeful character, making it very clear this is definitely a sporting Focus.”

From the striking one-piece design interpretation of Ford’s signature trapezoidal grille at the front, through the sculpted side skirts and the dynamic rear bumper with prominent diffuser-style vents in the lower fascia, the Focus ST’s design adds aggression and aerodynamic stability compared to the base models.

Drivers following the Focus ST will notice the highly effective roof spoiler on both models, optimised to deliver improved high-speed stability and reduced drag. They will also witness the unique centre-exit exhaust with a stunning tailpipe design influenced by the exclusive hexagonal mesh of the front bumper.

Around the world, the sporty design of the Focus ST will leave other drivers in no doubt that they are seeing something that boasts incredible performance beneath that impressive metal.

Stylish and Sporty Inside
The exhilarating drive of the new Focus ST will have customers spending as much time behind the steering wheel as possible. With that in mind, Ford’s designers have worked hard to ensure the interior of the Focus ST is a great place to be, helping the driver to feel as connected to the vehicle as possible.

The interior of the core Focus model is already designed with a “cockpit” feel, giving any Focus driver a sporty sensation. In the ST variant, though, that sporty feeling is heightened with everything the driver touches and feels reinforcing that it is unmistakably an ST.

Details range from specially designed pedals, steering wheel and gearshift to the unique Recaro seats. The darker headlining and trim on the pillars, an integral part of the ST’s design DNA, adds to the performance driving feel.

With the seats, Ford worked closely with Recaro to give ST customers the ultimate in comfort and support. The seats will not only hold the driver in place tightly during spirited driving, but will offer exclusive premium features like cushion tilt, plus length adjustment which is a unique option in this class of vehicle. A lower seating position has also been achieved to give drivers improved ergonomics and the perfect place from where to exploit the ST’s performance.

Rear seat passengers aren’t forgotten. An all-new rear bench has been developed for the ST, sculpted using special foam. This will help rear passengers feel as secure as those passengers in the front, highlighting not only the sporting intentions of Focus ST but also the practical considerations that are part of its core DNA.

New Focus ST will be offered to European customers in three distinct trim options – ST1, ST2 and ST3. This approach is already familiar to owners of the previous Focus ST in the UK.

While precise details of feature availability for each trim option will vary by market, ST1 is the standard model, offering the key features like cloth Recaro seats, keyless start, front door scuff plates with ST logo and standard ST rear bench with centre armrest.

Focus ST2 builds on this with the addition of partial leather Recaro seats and dual zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control (EATC). For right-hand drive markets, ST2 will also include unique ST floor mats, automatic headlamp control, auto-dimming rear view mirror and automatic wipers, features that are standard on left-hand drive ST1 models.

The top spec Focus ST3 increases the features with the inclusion of those exclusive heated leather Recaro seats with 8-way adjustability and pull out cushion, plus the newly developed Recaro rear bench. ST3 customers also benefit from Bi-Xenon headlamps to keep the road ahead in total clarity throughout the night.

New Focus ST Wagon
The new Focus ST wagon shows just how far the performance DNA of an ST model can stretch and is set to offer European customers something unique in the segment.

“There’s nothing comparable in the market to the Focus ST wagon,” said Capito. “It retains all of the practical elements of the Focus wagon and adds the unique ST performance, handling abilities and refinement of the five-door model. We have high hopes for the ST wagon being a great success.”

| Ford

Ford centenary tour stops at new car showroom on the beach

Professional sand sculptors created a line up of Ford cars – spanning the last 100 years – on a Cornwall beach for the company's Centenary Tour. The sand-modelled 'showroom' of cars spanning the Ford Model T to the Ford Focus, at Polzeath, was the creation of sculptors Andy Moss and Jamie Wardley.

Jamie Wardley said: “One of the first sand cars I ever created was the Thunderbird FAB1 so to be asked to replicate some of the most famous cars ever made in this country was a real thrill.



“The Polzeath Beach sand is absolutely amazing to work with in terms of texture and although we aimed to have each car completed in around 40 minutes, the classic Ford Model T took quite a bit longer due to the detail involved.”

Families visiting the beach were delighted to find a line-up of stunning sand sculptures depicting iconic Ford vehicles.

Tyler Docherty and his seven year-old brother Alfie – from Long Eaton in Nottinghamshire – were among a number of children to take advantage of a free master class in sculpting from the artists, representing Bradford-based sculptors ‘Sand In Your Eye’.

“I like all the cars they have done but I really love the Ford Capri – it’s so cool,” said eight year-old Tyler.

The Ford Centenary Tour is a touring exhibition charting the company's unique history in the UK. It is making contact with Ford customers, employees and enthusiasts ranging from Inverness in the Scottish Highlands to Plymouth and Cornwall on the south coast.

| Ford

Ford Evos Concept, the ultimate expression of Ford's New Global Design and Technology Vision

Making its global debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show in September, the Ford Evos Concept represents the ultimate expression of Ford's new global design language, and explores key future powertrain and vehicle technologies. Created as a bespoke concept vehicle, the fastback introduces Ford's first truly global design language as the momentum of the company's One Ford product plan continues to build.



"The Ford Evos Concept unites three key elements which are at the core of our One Ford global product strategy: outstanding design, smart technologies and fuel economy leadership," said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president of Global Product Development.



"With its compelling design and innovative technology experience, this is a clear demonstration of the exciting vision we have for the Ford brand. While you will never see this car on the road, the next generation of Ford products around the world will display many of the distinctive design ideas and advanced technologies it showcases."

Ford Evos Concept

Technology vision for enriched customer experience

Ford Evos Concept is not just a design-led exercise. It also embodies the global Ford product development team's move to design and develop vehicles as more than just an interior and exterior, or a collection of attributes.



"Our goal is to focus on enriching a customer's every experience with their vehicle - by personalizing it, adapting it, and creating unique, unexpected features that surprise and delight them," said Kuzak. "In the Ford Evos Concept, this objective is explored and extended to the area of connectivity, where the intent is not to convert the vehicle into a smartphone, but rather to provide personalised and safe connection to the outside world in an enriching manner designed totally for the vehicle context."



Ford's global Research and Innovation team, led by Paul Mascarenas, was tasked with building Evos Concept around a technology experience as visionary as the design. The result signals how Ford intends to build on the momentum of innovations like the SYNC in-car connectivity system.



"At Ford, the future of technology in the car will be defined by the experience that it delivers to the driver and passengers," said Paul Mascarenas, chief technical officer and vice president of Ford Research and Innovation. "We see technology as more than just an impressive list of microprocessors, sensors and software; it's about the application of that technology to create an experience that enhances the driver's time behind the wheel."



The concept's technology experience embraces a new generation of driver interaction and awareness currently under development in the Ford Research and Innovation laboratories. Seamless connectivity between the vehicle and the driver's 'personal cloud' of information is at the heart of the vision for its capabilities.



"The possibilities are fascinating when we explore how to enable a seamless lifestyle between home, office and car linked by access to the driver's personal information," Mascarenas said.



With information from the cloud, the vehicle can provide the same connected lifestyle the driver experiences at home or office. The car knows the driver, and automatically adapts handling, steering and engine controls to deliver an exceptionally dynamic driving experience.



Ford researchers are focusing their efforts in this area to deliver on four key customer benefits: personalisation, seamless enhancement of the driving experience, looking after the driver's well-being and delivering smart electrified powertrain optimisation.



The personalised, cloud-connected lifestyle

While today's Ford products provide drivers with many personalisation options, cloud connectivity will enable future Ford vehicles to take the experience to the next level.



Drawing from a detailed understanding of the driver's preferences and driving habits, the Ford Evos Concept combines this personal information with additional data from the cloud, such as the driver's work schedule and local traffic or weather conditions. This information provides a personalised and seamless experience as the driver transitions in and out of the car.



"We're researching how we can use patterns or preferences set by the driver to make life simpler," said Mascarenas. "The car gets to know you and can act as a personal assistant to handle some of the usual routines of a daily commute."



It could automatically play the same music or news program that was just streaming at home, or heat or cool the interior to an ideal temperature before the driver gets in without having to be requested by predicting departure time based on his calendar. Wirelessly communicating with devices in the home, it could close the garage door and switch off the lights automatically as it pulls away.



"This cloud-connected vision shows the enormous potential of tailoring the driving experience to suit the exact personal tastes and moods of the driver," said Mascarenas. "From recommending a great driving road from friends on your social networks or resetting your alarm clock to let you sleep in when a morning meeting gets cancelled!"



Enhanced driving experience

Ford Evos Concept explores adaptive vehicle technologies to redefine the driving experience.



Current technology requires vehicle chassis settings to be defined based upon the abilities and tastes of a cross-section of drivers and the topography of typical roads. The concept foresees tuning handling and performance to the road ahead and the specific individual behind the wheel.



Learning driver habits and capabilities, the technology can overlay map and weather data sourced from the cloud to adjust powertrain, steering, suspension and braking systems for optimum enjoyment, comfort and safety. Because the vehicle is adaptive and honed to maximum performance based on the situation, it takes driving engagement to a new level.



Driver wellness

Ford researchers have already developed technologies focused on driver wellness, such as the heart-rate monitoring seat and certified allergy-free interiors. With a seamless connection to the cloud, the Ford Evos Concept monitors the physical state and workload of the driver and adjusts the driving experience accordingly.



"Our wellness research and technologies are focused on relieving driver stress and enhancing their situational awareness," said Mascarenas. "Drivers around the world are spending more time behind the wheel, and the car should not be another stress point in their lives."



The Ford Evos Concept is also equipped with advanced air quality sensors and filtration systems to help allergy sufferers. Location aware, it can access air quality data from the cloud and proactively suggest a healthier route to the destination.



In dynamic driving situations, the vehicle may simplify the appearance of the instrument panel to display only necessary gauge information and switch the driver's connected smartphone to "Do Not Disturb" mode to help keep the focus of attention on the road.



Cloud-optimised hybrid powertrain

Completing the vision for the Ford Evos Concept is a state-of-the-art lithium-ion plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain providing the same next-generation performance and fuel economy as the Ford C-MAX Energi scheduled for introduction in North America in 2012 and Europe in 2013.



Ford 'powersplit' hybrid architecture allows the electric motor and petrol engine to work together or separately to maximise efficiency. The advanced powertrain typically runs in all-electric mode before switching to charge-sustaining hybrid mode for continued optimal fuel efficiency.



Cloud connectivity would provide further opportunities to enhance performance and efficiency by selecting the optimum combination of powertrain modes for any given journey.



"Access to historical driver behaviour and travel patterns allows us to calculate the optimal fuel and energy efficiency by predicting the destination," said Mascarenas. "Our researchers are working to increase understanding of driver behaviour, develop accurate protocols to predict it and enhance the trip by providing the smartest use of fuel or battery for the situation."



The cloud-optimised powertrain would automatically 'know' when to save energy and switch modes, using information about the vehicle's predicted travel route, any emission zone restrictions during the journey and current weather conditions.



In the future, communities may place firm restrictions on the types of vehicles allowed to use certain roads or highway lanes, and some city centres may choose to be open only to full electric vehicles. Helping drivers comply with such regulations could therefore be among the benefits of this technology. For example, the French government is considering creating zones mandating lower emissions, while cities such as London, Berlin, and Stockholm already have them in place.



This capability would further enhance the performance of Ford's advanced PHEV technology, which offers an overall driving range of more than 500 miles (800 kilometres) using the battery and engine - more than any other plug-in or extended-range electric vehicle.



"With its leading-edge 'cloud-optimised' PHEV powertrain offering outstanding efficiency and range with supreme driving enjoyment, the Ford Evos Concept highlights our vision for greener, smarter vehicles with outstanding customer appeal," said Kuzak.





Ford's new design direction

The Ford Evos Concept was specifically developed to introduce the new Ford design direction. Key design elements will be applied to forthcoming Ford vehicles.



The new global design DNA provides the company's worldwide design teams with a common framework to guide the creation of new products, enabling them to shape a coherent family of distinctive vehicles sharing the same fundamental design character.



"We wanted the Ford Evos Concept to give a clear message about where Ford design is heading - shaping vehicles that are fun to drive, have a strong premium visual appeal, and above all, are stunningly beautiful," said J Mays, group vice president, Design and chief creative officer.



"Our exciting new design DNA has been developed and refined by an intensive effort by all of our talented global design team," said Mays. "As a team, we wanted to create a more technical design vocabulary to help communicate the smart technology that is now core to the Ford brand. In addition, we worked particularly hard on meeting the high-expectations of a new generation of buyers - a group of consumers who have grown up surrounded by beautiful, premium design work on even the most affordable products."



Dramatic fastback design with unique proportions

To provide a fitting vehicle to introduce the new design language, the Ford Evos Concept was conceived as a dramatic fastback concept, combining a striking new profile with innovative proportions. Attention-grabbing lines conceal a unique new format, with a four-door, four-seat layout which combines dynamic appearance with surprising practicality.

"This is an exciting new interpretation of the fastback bodystyle, with a really innovative silhouette as well as dramatic and very modern proportions," Mays said.



With the length of a typical C-car, but with width of a CD-car, the Ford Evos Concept has a powerful, sporting stance. The forward position of the cowl, the strongly rounded front screen and the A-pillars set further to the rear enabled the designers to create the impression of a classic GT car, but with a very contemporary feel.



The concept's spectacular hinged gullwing-style doors, both front and rear, provide outstanding access to the spacious four-seat cabin.



The concept car measures 4.50m (177in) long, 1.97m (77in) wide and 1.36m (53in) high, with a wheelbase of 2.74m (108in).



Distinctive evolution

Shaped as the ultimate expression of the new design DNA, the Ford Evos Concept highlights key elements of Ford's distinctive new global design language.



"The new design DNA marks a bold evolution of the kinetic design language featured on existing global Ford products and is characterised by a number of important elements that will contribute to an unmistakable future Ford look," said Mays.



From the front, the Ford Evos Concept immediately signals the arrival of something new - a new face for Ford featuring the signature trapezoidal grille mounted higher on the car and creating a confident, more premium look.



Bold, technical shapes, such as the extremely slim 'laser cut' front lamps or the dramatic graphic created by the front and rear screens connected by the thin glazed section of the roof, add a distinctive character to the design. Sculptured flanks highlight attention to detail on the surfacing, which lends a refined quality and a tauter, more muscular character.



"The Ford Evos Concept embodies the core elements of the new global design language, while capturing the dynamic, fun-to-drive spirit which is central to the Ford DNA," said executive design director Martin Smith. "Most notable is the brand new 'face of Ford', with its higher mounted trapezoidal grille, and the design is characterised by the use of very bold, technical graphics. We have also created much more refined and precise surfacing, and these elements together give a strong visual sense of premium quality.



The vehicle was sculpted with the same purity of surface sculpture and attention to detail which characterise premium vehicles. Around the world, a new generation of buyers have come to expect premium design in all products, regardless of the purchase price.



Built around the driver

Reflecting the fun-to-drive spirit of its exterior design, the interior of the Ford Evos Concept is built around the driver. A stylish and innovative cockpit promises new levels of driving pleasure and driver interaction.



The interior architecture features clean and simple surfaces, with a muscular, athletic character to the slim upper instrument panel, enhanced by bold trapezoidal cut-outs. Contrasting these muscular forms, curvaceous cockpit display surfaces sweep down either side of the driver, providing secondary information about vehicle and infotainment systems.



The concept features a bold red driver's seat and the vision of unprecedented driver interaction via an advanced driver interface. The two rear seat passengers get an equally special experience, with dedicated touch-screen displays to interact with the vehicle and individually adjustable sports seats.



"Both the exterior and interior of the Ford Evos Concept clearly communicate that this is a driver's car, so that as soon as people see the vehicle, they will immediately want to get in and drive," said executive design director Moray Callum.



Ford Evos Concept Previews New Global Design Language for Next Generation of Ford Products

The Ford Evos Concept, to be revealed at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, previews a new global design language for the next generation of Ford cars, MAVs and CUVs.



The company's first truly global design DNA was created as a key part of the One Ford product strategy, and signals a significant transformation of the Ford brand.



Developed in a collaborative process by Ford's global design team, it provides a framework to guide the creation of new products for Ford's future model portfolio worldwide.



"The momentum of Ford's global product plan is building fast, and this new design DNA provides a clear direction for a whole new generation of models," said J Mays, group vice president, Design and chief creative officer.



"The Ford Evos Concept is a strong statement of intent from the global design team, and highlights the compelling vision we have for our future products. We believe that the new generation of buyers around the world has higher expectations for a more premium design language in all products. This understanding of the consumer played an important role in shaping this fresh design DNA."



The design language explored in the Evos Concept is characterised by a number of key elements which will form an integral part of the design approach for next-generation Ford products. According to Mays, it represents a bold evolution of the kinetic design language which is a feature of the current global Ford portfolio.



Martin Smith, Ford's executive design director for Europe and Asia Pacific is delighted with this evolution. He said: "The overwhelmingly positive response to cars like the Fiesta and Focus gave the Design team confidence that our original kinetic design approach resonated with consumers around the world. With our new global design DNA, we have retained the same dynamic character, but with a more technical execution and a distinctively premium feel."



Design vocabulary

Specifically developed to preview the new face of Ford, the Evos Concept introduces a new exterior and interior design vocabulary that ultimately will be applied consistently across future global Ford models:



Silhouette innovation: Immediately noticeable is the Evos Concept's fresh and dramatic silhouette which reinforces the sportiness and fun to drive characteristics that are now a hallmark of Ford models globally. It also delivers a unique profile that distinguishes Ford from its competitors.



Perceived efficiency: Evos Concept has a fastback roof profile which suggests aerodynamic efficiency. This is reinforced by a slight teardrop shape in the way the lines flow together towards the rear of the car. Thin roof pillars emphasize visual lightness and deliver an overall character that suggests the car is nimble and "light on its feet".



Refined surface language: While some competitors have imitated the lines of Ford's kinetic design language and added even more, Mays and his team are moving to a simpler approach that emphasises refinement without losing character. Evos shows this to good effect in muscular, architectural haunches over the front and rear wheel openings and a long, sweeping feature line that catches the light along the lower body.



Technical graphics: To communicate the importance of smart technology for the Ford brand in a very visual manner, Evos features neat and precise graphics, particularly the low profile headlights and tail lamps, plus the integrated rear exhaust and diffuser.



New face of Ford: The most important element is a brand new 'face of Ford'. This has been created by moving Ford's by-now-familiar inverted trapezoid grille upwards on the front of the vehicle. The transition to the new 'face of Ford' has already been partially foreshadowed in the Ford Focus Electric and the new Focus ST.

.

Visual sense of premium quality: All elements of the new design approach embodied in the Evos Concept come together to create a visual sense that communicates premium levels of quality.



Developing an aligned global vision

The vision captured in the Ford Evos Concept was developed through an unprecedented collaboration between Ford's highly regarded design teams from its studios around the world.



"The design direction that created the Ford Evos Concept is the result of intensive work by the Ford global design team to hone the brand's future direction," said Mays. "Our leadership team - including Martin Smith and Moray Callum - has fostered a spirit of collaboration and healthy competition which allows each studio to explore creative approaches for future products."



Mays credits strong alignment across the Ford design organization as a key enabler for the unified design language. The new DNA will, he believes, establish a common framework to guide the creation of new products in Ford's design operations worldwide - including eight design studios with 1,150 staff.



Consistent with the aligned approach of the One Ford product plan designers in all locations, and working on different sizes and types of vehicle, are now busy shaping a coherent family of exciting new products which share the same fundamental design language.



"The new global DNA establishes a framework which enables our designers to create the next generation of great looking products, all sharing a distinctive Ford character," said Moray Callum, executive design director for North America. "A common DNA doesn't mean identical looking products, however. The design language is flexible enough for different sizes and types of vehicles, so that customers around the world will be able recognise it as a new Ford."



Coming sooner

The first of the new generation of Ford production cars developed using the new design vocabulary will be given its public debut in 2012.



"We wanted the Ford Evos Concept to give a clear message about where Ford design is heading - shaping vehicles that are fun to drive, have a premium appeal but, above all, are stunningly beautiful," said Mays. "The first fruit of this vision will be ready sooner than you might think - you'll see it in around four months rather than four years. We can't wait to introduce the first production car to include this new Ford design to our global customers."







































| Ford | Images gallery

Ford Focus gets a street artist make-over

Six street artists brought Glasgow City Centre to a standstill yesterday, transforming a brand new Ford Focus into a four-wheeled, vividly-coloured work of art.



Working from a temporary public ‘studio’ outside the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall in Buchanan Street, the artists Lyken, FiST, Syrkus, Rue 5, Death Rattles and Al White, who are from the city’s Independent Recoat Gallery, spent six hours producing the artwork that will now be featured for the next month, as part of the Ford Centenary Tour.







Recoat Gallery manager, Amy Whiten, said: “The artists we have at Recoat have been doing great work in Scotland and we are delighted to get the chance to show what we can do. We’ve worked on a few different vehicle projects but this is the first time the artists have collaborated on completely restyling the paint job of a car."





The Ford Centenary Tour is an exhibition charting the company's unique history in the UK and its future plans. It will visit 20 UK locations, including Ford plants and dealers, as it makes contact with Ford customers, employees and enthusiasts from Inverness in the Scottish Highlands to Plymouth on the south coast.



The tour, which got underway in London last week, runs until September 18, finishing at the Goodwood Revival in Chichester, West Sussex.









| Ford | UK

Ford, Toyota to collaborate on developing new hybrid System for light trucks, SUVs

Ford Motor Company and Toyota Motor Corporation – the world’s two leading manufacturers of hybrid vehicles – today announced they will equally collaborate on the development of an advanced new hybrid system for light truck and SUV customers.



Ford and Toyota have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on the product development collaboration, with the formal agreement expected by next year.



Both companies have been working independently on their own future-generation rear-wheel drive hybrid systems. The two now have committed to collaborate as equal partners on a new hybrid system for light trucks and SUVs. This new hybrid powertrain will bring the full hybrid experience of greater fuel efficiency to a new group of truck and SUV customers without compromising the capability they require in their vehicles. Ford and Toyota believe that their collaboration will allow them to bring these hybrid technologies to customers sooner and more affordably than either company could have accomplished alone.





“This agreement brings together the capability of two global leaders in hybrid vehicles and hybrid technology to develop a better solution more quickly and affordably for our customers,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. “Ford achieved a breakthrough with the Ford Fusion Hybrid, and we intend to do this again for a new group of truck and SUV buyers – customers we know very well.”



Takeshi Uchiyamada, Toyota executive vice president, Research & Development, said: “In 1997, we launched the first-generation Prius, the world’s first mass-produced gasoline-electric hybrid. Since then, we have sold about 3.3 million hybrid vehicles. We expect to create exciting technologies that benefit society with Ford – and we can do so through the experience the two companies have in hybrid technology.”



The two companies also agreed to work together on enablers to complement each company’s existing telematics platform standards, helping bring more Internet-based services and useful information to consumers globally.



Under the MOU agreement, the two companies will bring the best of their independently developed hybrid powertrain technology and knowledge to a new co-developed hybrid system, which will be used in rear-wheel-drive light trucks arriving later this decade. Specifically, Ford and Toyota will:



- Jointly develop as equal partners a new rear-wheel drive hybrid system and component technology for light trucks and SUVs

- Independently integrate the new hybrid system in their future vehicles separately



For years, both Ford and Toyota have been working independently on similar new rear-wheel-drive hybrid systems aimed at delivering higher fuel economy in light trucks and SUVs. When the two companies began discussing this potential collaboration, they discovered how quickly they were able to find common ground.



“By working together, we will be able to serve our customers with the very best affordable, advanced powertrains, delivering even better fuel economy,” said Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally. “This is the kind of collaborative effort that is required to address the big global challenges of energy independence and environmental sustainability.”



Toyota President Akio Toyoda added: “Toyota is extremely proud to join Ford in developing a hybrid system for pickup trucks and SUVs. Not only is this tie-up clearly one aimed at making automobiles ever better, it should also become an important building block for future mobility in the U.S. By building a global, long-term relationship with Ford, our desire is to be able to continue to provide people in America automobiles that exceed their expectations.”



This rear-wheel-drive hybrid system will be based on an all-new architecture to deliver the capability truck and SUV customers demand while providing greater fuel economy.



While the rear-wheel-drive hybrid system will share significant common technology and components, Ford and Toyota will individually integrate the system into their own vehicles. Each company also will determine the calibration and performance dynamics characteristics of their respective light pickups and SUVs.



In addition, as telematics plays an increasingly more important role in the in-car experience, both companies have agreed to collaborate on standards and technologies needed to enable a safer, more secure and more convenient in-car experience for next-generation telematics systems. The telematics collaboration relates only to standards and technologies, and each company will continue to separately develop their own in-vehicle products and features.



“Ford has made tremendous progress in the area of telematics,” Kuzak said. “We have unique and very good solutions today with SYNC and MyFordTouch. Working together on in-vehicle standards can only enhance our customers’ experience with their vehicles.”



Uchiyamada added: “Toyota has also invested heavily in telematics in various countries around the world, with services like the G-BOOK and G-Link. In the U.S., we have just introduced the accessible, easy-to-use Entune. By sharing our know-how and experience, we would like to offer even better telematics services in the future.”



| Toyota

New Ford Focus joins the aa driving school

The all-new Ford Focus is set to attract new admirers among learner drivers as it joins the fleet of the AA Driving School.



More than 1,650 new Ford Focus models are to be absorbed into the school’s 2,200-strong vehicle fleet by the end of January 2012. The best seller will join the Ford Fiesta to provide students using the UK’s leading driving school with the best choice of cars in which to enjoy their first motoring experience.







Ford has supplied the AA Driving School on an exclusive basis since 1998, the year the original Focus was launched, and is mid-way through a three-year deal which will see it supply in excess of 8,000 cars.



Sarah Dopson, AA head of group fleet, said: “Not only is the new Ford Focus attractive to us in terms of its cost-effectiveness, but it is also ideal as a car for tuition purposes and learners are attracted to the AA Driving School as a result. The new Focus is a perfect stablemate for the Fiesta.”





Ian Watson, Ford’s direct sales manager, added: “The car in which you learn to drive leaves a lasting impression on you and Ford is of course delighted to have been associated with the AA Driving School on an exclusive basis for many years. We’re sure that the new Ford Focus will prove every bit as popular with students as the Ford Fiesta and the previous Focus.”



| Ford

Third wind turbine turns up for Ford Dagenhams

Ford Dagenham's largest, most powerful wind turbine was completed as the blades were lifted into place last week. The 120m tall turbine, the third to be commissioned at Dagenham, is now contributing clean electricity to power engine production in the Ford Dagenham Diesel Centre (DDC).



Groundwork for the third wind turbine began in June and construction of the tower and blades took just four days to finish. The main assembly was completed when the 82m-diameter windmill blades and hub were hoisted 80m into the air. This was carried out by one of the UK's largest cranes, which was delivered to the site by four articulated trucks and itself required a 160-tonne crane to be assembled.







Increased production at the DDC required the installation of a third turbine to avoid use of non-renewable forms of generated electricity.



Dale Vince, founder of Ecotricity, said: “Together with Ford, Ecotricity pioneered the use of wind to power the Dagenham Diesel Centre. We are really pleased to come back and build a third windmill so that the green energy supply keeps pace with the customer demand for Ford's most fuel-efficient diesel engines.”



Chris Woolacott, Ford Dagenham Diesel Centre line manager, said: "The Ford Dagenham Diesel Centre is once again 100 per cent wind-powered. Ford's plant building its lowest-CO2 diesel engines continues to be powered by renewable energy."



Ecotricity and Ford have collaborated since 2004, when they created London's first wind park at Dagenham.



Total engine production at Ford Dagenham exceeds 38 million units.





Third wind turbine data

Rotor diameter 82m

Hub height 79m

Capacity 2.3MW

Green electricity per year 5.58 million units

Homes powered (equiv) 1692

Tonnes of CO2 saved (p.a) 2401

Maximum height of 120m equivalent to a 36-storey building



Combined wind turbine data

Green electricity per year 11.4 million units

Homes powered (equiv) 3400

Tonnes of CO2 saved (p.a) 4947



| Ford

New special edition Ford Fiesta "Centura" marks 100 years of Ford in Britain

Britain's best-selling small car, the Ford Fiesta, continues to expand its appeal with the launch of an exciting new special edition, the "Centura", which builds on the most popular model and engine choice in the UK.



The Centura celebrates the 100th anniversary of Ford in Britain, and, available exclusively in black, it pays tribute to the first Ford vehicles to be manufactured in the UK, the Model T in 1911.







Based on the Ford Fiesta Zetec, the Centura boasts a comprehensive list of additional standard equipment valued at £1,800, including metallic Panther Black paint, chrome mirror and door caps, LED daylight running lights, 16-inch seven-spoke alloy wheels, automatic headlamps and windscreen wipers, reverse parking sensors and a parking camera mounted in the rear view mirror.



Just 1,000 Ford Fiesta Centura special editions will be available, priced at £13,395 for the three-door version and £13,995 for the five-door. The Ford Fiesta remains the UK's best-selling car with 52,327 sold in the first half of this year.







Anthony Ireson, marketing director, Ford of Britain, said: "Fiesta has been a UK favourite its entire lifetime and it was a natural choice to use this great icon to help mark our centenary. With a unique specification and affordable price, the Centura will appeal to thousands of customers, and we anticipate strong demand – who knows it might even become a collector's car one day!"



The Ford Fiesta Centura 1.25-litre 82PS petrol engine is exempt from vehicle excise duty in the first year.



| Ford