2011 Frankfurt Motor Show - Ford Evos Concept revealed ahead

The Ford Evos Concept is an all-new design certain to get Blue Oval fans salivating.

Ford has dropped a comprehensive collection of images and details of the Evos Concept ahead of its official global unveiling at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show on September 13.

Ford says the dramatic four-door, four-seat plug-in hybrid fastback showcases the company’s “first truly global design language and a new vision for customer-focused and intuitive technologies”.

Ford group vice president of global product development, Derrick Kuzak, said the Evos Concept represented the ‘ultimate expression’ of the brand’s new international design direction.

“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,” Mr Kuzak said.
“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.”

At 4500mm long, 1970mm wide, 1360mm tall and with a wheelbase of 2740mm, the Ford Evos Concept is slightly longer and wider than the Peugeot RCZ.

Its length is typical C-car class, while its width is bordering on the next class up, giving it a wide, sporting stance.

The new design language gives a nod to the old kinetic design theme, but is a clear evolution in almost every element.

The signature trapezoidal grille is mounted higher on the car for a more confident, aggressive appearance. Ford executive design director, Martin Smith, says expect to see this grille throughout the range of next-generation vehicles.

There are a number of bold and technical shapes, including the thin ‘laser cut’ headlights and the heavily sculpted and muscular bonnet and flanks.

The taillights, while reminiscent of the current Mondeo rear lamps, are sleeker and sharper, and heavily recessed into the bumper.

The wide-swinging roof-hinged doors are pure concept, but open up a modern cabin that is not burdened by a B-pillar – a model rapidly taking off among today’s automotive designers.

Inside, the Ford Evos Concept is both driver-focused and designed to enhance passenger comfort and experience.

The surfaces are clean and muscular, with trapezoidal elements continuing from the exterior. The driver’s seat is red and infotainment displays flow from the instrument panel to wrap around the driver. The passengers get their own independent seats, with integrated touchscreens for those in the rear.

Mr Kuzak said the technology in the Evos Concept is designed to personalise the vehicle for each driver and each drive.

“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.”

He said the systems used are an evolution of the current SYNC and embrace next-generation ‘cloud’ technology, designed to enable a seamless lifestyle between home, office and vehicle by accessing the driver’s personal information.

Ford says the potential of the cloud is almost limitless, with the ability to do anything from automatically adapt the car’s driving dynamics, play the same music or news program that was streaming at home, and even heat or cool the cabin to the ideal temperature before the driver gets in the car by checking your calendar and predicting your departure time.

If you think the Ford Evos Concept little more than a design and technology concept, guess again.

The Evos is powered by the same lithium-ion plug-in hybrid powertrain from the Ford C-MAX Energi, which is scheduled for sale in North America in 2012 and Europe in 2013.

The Evos Concept has a driving range of more than 800km, and can be driven in full-electric or combined petrol-hybrid mode. The powertrain is also linked to the cloud, and can switch between hybrid and electric mode based on your predicted drive route, your driving behaviour, the weather, upcoming weather and other factors.

Ford hasn’t released performance data for the concept yet, but if it goes as well as it looks, it could have some serious speed about it.

The Ford Evos Concept promises to be one of the highlights of the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show when it is unveiled in two weeks’ time.

Ford Makes An Appearance To Talk Evos

Give Ford credit for making the rounds on this one; they may not have actually sent their new Ford Evos out to the IFA show in Berlin, but they did send their Chief Technology Officer out to talk it up. And what he had to say about it was impressive enough in its own right.

Basically, what separates the Ford Evos from most other cars is not its fuel performance, but rather that it’s the first car to be “connected to the cloud”, or, have a continuous access to data storage. One of the key things about this cloud connection, or so Ford’s CTO Paul Mascarenas mentioned, is that it would learn your preferences and respond accordingly, almost like a car that has cookies.

For instance, in the Ford Evos, it might remember your favorite style of music, and access it when you drive. Or it may adjust the car’s performance according to your particular driving style, altering things like suspension and braking. It may even be able to go sufficiently far as to monitor your heart rate and temperature and then make adjustments in the car accordingly.

Personally, I find myself of two minds on this one. While I love a device that’s capable of performing multiple tasks at once, and this one definitely looks like the kind of Swiss Army device that makes me very happy, I can’t help but look at it and think that this is just more possibilities for things to go wrong. And when it comes to a car, losing one function is often enough to lose most of the others, including the all too important one of driving. And what happens when the car goes into the used market? Do you wipe the cloud clean and start afresh?

So what do you guys think about the Ford Evos? Sound like a good idea, or an invitation to trouble? No matter how you feel about this one, head on down to the comments section and let us know just what you think about it.

Frankfurt Auto Show: 2012 Honda Insight

Honda has releases photos and details for the 2012 Insight, which will debut the Frankfurt Motor Show.



The 2012 Honda Insight will feature a revised front end that will bring improved aerodynamics, including a new front grille and slightly revised lower air intakes in the lower corners. Honda says the rear spoiler has also been reduced in size, improving rear visibility.



The Insight also gets slightly better mileage and produces less carbon dioxide thanks to a few other adjustments. The engine is revised for less internal friction, and the air conditioning is also updated to help reduce the 2012 Honda Insight’s carbon footprint.



Fuel economy and emissions have also been improved by means of enhanced aerodynamics and powertrain efficiency. Revisions to the CVT and mill, the latter in the form of reduced engine friction, as well as alterations to the air conditioning system, which features a new cold storage system, all do their bit to contribute to lower fuel consumption, with CO2 levels now down to 96 g/km.



Inside, Honda is said to have "enhanced" the quality of the materials, though given the acres of hard plastic the company used on the 2012 Civic line, we'll be curious to learn what those upgrades may consist of.











Press Release



96 g/km* for the 2012 Honda Insight



The launch of the 2012 Honda Insight at Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) 2011 in September reaffirms Honda's commitment to reducing CO2 emissions.



The 2012 Insight is now even more environmentally friendly producing just 96 g/km* of CO2. Fuel economy and emissions have been improved by means of enhanced aerodynamics and powertrain efficiency. Reduced engine friction , Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) and better air conditioning, benefiting from a new cold storage system, all contribute to lower fuel consumption.



The Insight also receives a fresh exterior design including a new front grille. The slimmed tail spolier allows for a wider rear glass area, and combining this with a modified tail gate garnish and a reduction in the size of the wiper motor unit results in overall increased rear visibility.



Adjustments have been made to the engine and suspension for an overall improvement to ride comfort and stability. The features within the interior have also been enhanced for a superior quality.

Frankfurt debut: Lanica Flavia Cabrio

Lancia has releases new models for the Flavia Cabrio, which will debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month.



The Lancia Flavia Cabrio is powered by a 2.4 naturally aspirated engine, delivering 175 horsepower, connected to a six-speed automatic transmission.



The production version has specific 18 inch rims, LED tail lights and a slightly different grille, but the rest of it is carried over from the 200, itself an evolution of the Chrysler Sebring.



The soft top roof opens and shuts mechanically and has apparently been designed to store away so that the car keeps its sleek lines when cruising with the top down.











Press Release



New Flavia Cabrio: four seats, four seasons



Following its critical and public success enjoyed at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, Lancia decided to produce the original Flavia Cabrio which enhances the stylistic features of the Italian manufacturer the Chrysler 200 model being launched on the European market.



The Lancia convertible is an interesting alternative for customers who want the benefits of a coupé without giving up the unique sensations that only an open-air car can offer. The new car indeed guarantees a fine driving experience unparalleled by any other in its segment, whether tackling the daily trip in town to go to the office or when taking to the splendid scenic roads out of town on week-ends.



In terms of length (4.9 metres), height (1.4 m) and width (1.8 m), the Lancia Flavia Cabrio is at the top of segment D, offering the ultimate in interior room - it can accommodate up to four adults - and on-board comfort with its generous 276-cm wheelbase.



Identifiable by an elegant and dynamic look, the new Flavia Cabrio has a sculpturesque front sporting the unprecedented grille with Lancia logo and the original front headlights and fog lights.

The surface of the side panel is extremely elegant and clean, in addition to being distinguished by a sleek line that lengthens the car and gives it dynamism and by elegant 18" alloy wheels.



The rear LED light cluster stylistically joined by a thin chrome-plated bar that further enhances the overall look contributes to accentuating its elegant design. This impression is further reinforced by the unusual twin chrome-plated tailpipe and by the sophisticated electrically-controlled soft top enclosed inside the hood cover, harmoniously built into the body with the third brake light at its base.



So if "elegance and dynamism" describe the exterior of the new Flavia Cabrio, the guidelines inside are refinement and innovation, in perfect tune with Italian style and the craftsmanship quality that has always distinguished Lancia cars. Aesthetic refinement that flows through the entire passenger compartment and wraps around driver and passengers in a warm, sophisticated "embrace" thanks to the painstaking selection of fine materials, the attention devoted to every minimum details and the adoption of advanced comfort, safety and driving pleasure features.



In short, the new Flavia Cabrio boasts a sophisticate surrounding that will without a doubt win over a customer who seeks exclusiveness, technology and Italian taste in a car. A new console has been created for him. It has elegant chrome-plated frames and a large central display; a brand new steering wheel wrapped in full-grain leather complete with built-in controls for managing radio, cruise control and mobile phone in total safety; and newly designed seats upholstered in fine leather, complete with practical "active" headrests.



Equipped with the brilliant 175 HP 2.4 litre petrol engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission, the captivating Lancia Flavia Cabrio is offered in a single, exclusive version that is "all inclusive". As the name itself intimates, it offers a wealth of standard equipment, from the top quality leather upholstery, electronic stability control (ESC) and traction, latest-generation ABS and numerous airbags (front multi-stage, side and window bags) to the ISOFIX mountings for transporting children in complete safety, the innovative Uconnect® multimedia system complete with satellite navigation system, and the sophisticated "Boston Acoustic Sound System".

2012 Honda Pilot

Honda has officially unveiled the 2012 Pilot.



On the outside, the Pilot gets a revised three-bar grille, redesigned headlights and front bumper. EX trims and higher now have 18-inch alloy wheels (upgraded from 17-inch rims), while LX trims are equipped with 17-inch steel wheels.



Inside, Honda has taken strides to rearrange some buttons and decrease interior noise. The Pilot gets a piano-black center console to minimize the brightwork of the outgoing silver look, which resembled a hi-fi boombox from the late 1990s. On EX-L and Touring models, the Pilot gets a voice-activated 60GB hard drive for storing MP3s, Bluetooth audio streaming, and Honda’s Satellite-Linked Navigation System that offers traffic updates as far as Alaska, in case the Pilot’s adventures take you that far.



Under the hood, while it was expected that Honda might introduce a six-speed automatic transmission, the five-speed unit remains for the 2012 model year, as does the 250-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine.



Other improvements to fuel efficiency include the use of low-rolling-resistance tires, low-drag front and rear ventilated disc brakes and changes to the exterior design that help reduce wind resistance.



The pricing starts at $28,470.











Press Release



2012 Honda Pilot Debuts with Sleek New Look, Improved Fuel Economy and Upgraded Interior Features



25 mpg Pilot 2WD achieves top highway EPA rating for an eight-passenger SUV



The Honda Pilot eight-passenger SUV receives a wide range of upgrades for 2012 with a sleeker front-end design, enhanced interior features and an EPA highway fuel economy rating of 25 mpg on two-wheel-drive models, an increase of 2 mpg compared to 2011 models.



The new styling for the front fascia, with its three-bar chrome-style grille, conveys a more sophisticated crossover SUV appearance. Interior styling changes focus on instrument panel refinement and a more intuitive button layout. For 2012, audio system upgrades on Pilot EX and EX-L models include a 2 GB CD-Library (CD-L) and Bluetooth® Audio Streaming, along with the addition of Bluetooth HandsFreeLink® to those trim levels.



Feature upgrades on the Pilot EX-L include the addition of a full-color 8-inch intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) for audio and vehicle information. Models equipped with the available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System for 2012 receive subscription-free FM Traffic, 15 GB audio hard disk drive memory (HDD), and a higher-resolution display.



The fuel economy gains for 2012 result from combined improvements to the powertrain, chassis and vehicle aerodynamics. The 250 horsepower i-VTEC V-6 engine includes additional measures for friction reduction and improved efficiency. The 2012 Pilot becomes quieter with additional noise insulation and other enhancements throughout the vehicle.



Body

The 2012 Pilot's new grille and front fascia replace the prior model's six-sided grille insert with a distinctive three-bar horizontal design. Reconfigured multi-reflector halogen headlights and turn signals contribute to the new look with a layout that relocates the turn signal from an outboard position to an inboard position within the headlight housing. A new front air dam and optimized strakes (the rectangular air deflector in front of the wheels) help reduce frontal area and unwanted air turbulence, both of which impact fuel economy. Rounding out the exterior design changes, Pilot EX and above models receive an all-new five-spoke, 18-inch aluminum alloy wheel design (plus 1-inch compared to the previous model). Pilot Touring alloy wheels feature an exclusive six-spoke design with a high-contrast machined surface. Pilot LX models are equipped with 17-inch styled-steel wheels.Exterior dimensions for 2012 are similar to 2011 with identical measurements for width (78.5 inches), height (71.0 inches for Pilot LX and 72.7 inches for Pilot EX, EX-L and Touring) wheelbase (109.2 inches) and track (front 67.7 / rear 67.5 inches). Overall length increases 0.5 inches to 191.4 inches as a result of the front styling changes. Ground clearance is basically the same at 7.97 inches, down slightly from 8.00 inches in the previous model.



Interior

Interior styling changes are designed to increase refinement throughout the cabin while also enhancing the intuitive nature of the controls. The instrument panel uses a more unified color theme with less contrast between panels. A glossy black center panel for audio controls replaces the high-contrast silver panel of the previous model. Speedometer and tachometer gauge faces incorporate a new look with distinct segments surrounding each meter's perimeter, along with white background illumination for nighttime driving instead of the previous model's aqua-blue background illumination. The redesigned center stack adds a subtle U-shaped character line and different textures to create a layered effect on the panel. Ideal for phones and audio players, a larger center storage pocket is 0.4-inches taller. A simplified layout for the climate controls replaces some of the buttons with dials for a more intuitive, easy-to-use overall design.The top of the center stack on each Pilot model contains a unique display that varies by model. Pilot LX and EX models contain a three-line display. Pilot EX-L models for 2012 (without navigation) receive the new i-MID, which provides a convenient platform for integration of vehicle information and compatible personal electronics through a color LCD screen and intuitive steering wheel controls. The Pilot EX-L rearview camera display appears in the i-MID and includes guidelines for judging parking distance. The i-MID also shows HandsFreeLink® operation, user-loaded wallpaper such as photos, a fuel-economy display and an audio interface.Available on Pilot EX-L and standard on Touring, the 2012 Pilot adopts the latest version of the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation SystemTM2. Now with 60 GB of total system memory (includes 15 GB allocated for user media) and voice recognition for three languages, this system uses multiple global positioning satellites covering all of the U.S. including Alaska and Hawaii, as well as Canada and Puerto Rico. Its new FM Traffic feature provides free, continuous updates on traffic and incidents, helping drivers avoid gridlock. The hard drive can store thousands of minutes of music, which is accessible by simple voice commands using the Song By VoiceTM feature. Additionally, 2012 Pilot models with navigation feature a multi-view rear camera (wide view, normal view and top-down view), with the image displayed on the navigation screen for convenient parking help when in Reverse.Adding to the comfort level of the 2012 Pilot is a reduction in noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). Enhanced body seam sealing around the unit-body connection points, and re-tuned rear suspension sub-frame mounts, result in lower noise levels in the passenger cabin. Other specific NVH countermeasures include body-seam sealants to reduce air leaks, enhanced pillar separators, revised insulation materials and acoustic windshield glass on all models.The tailgate features a lift-up glass hatch for convenient access to the rearmost cargo area. The model's 18.0 cubic-feet of cargo space behind the third row matches or exceeds the trunk space of a typical large sedan and can accommodate items as large as a mid-size cooler or a folded stroller. For maximum cargo space, the second and third rows fold flat into the floor to create 87.0 cubic feet of storage capacity, while also providing sufficient width for 4-foot-wide items.The cargo area has a hidden storage well that provides 2.8 cu-ft. of additional space and can combine with the above floor storage area by securing the hinged cover against the seatback. The Pilot Touring also provides a load-supporting cargo net (20 lbs. maximum weight) to further subdivide the rear cargo area.Key interior dimensions are identical to the previous Pilot model, including front headroom (40.0 in. for Pilot LX and EX, 39.3 in. for moonroof-equipped Pilot EX-L and Touring), second-row headroom (39.8 in.) and rear headroom (38.2 in.), legroom (front 41.4 in., second-row 38.5 in., and third-row 32.1 in.). Passenger volumes are likewise identical (153.7 cu-ft. for Pilot LX and EX, 152.7 cu-ft. for Pilot EX-L and Touring), as are cargo volumes (87.0 cu-ft. total, 47.7 cu-ft. behind second-row seats, and 18.0 cu-ft. behind third-row seats).Safety

Safety technology includes the Advanced Compatibility EngineeringTM (ACETM) body structure that helps reduce the amount of crash energy reaching the passenger compartment and can enhance frontal collision compatibility. Additional safety equipment includes three-row side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor, driver's and front passenger's side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), active front seat head restraints and anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist. Vehicle Stability AssistTM (VSA®), commonly referred to as Electronic Stability Control, is standard on all models. The 2012 Pilot also meets new federal regulations with taller rear head restraints.Honda has targeted the new Pilot to achieve best-in-class safety ratings, including a NHTSA 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score, and a TOP SAFETY PICK designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reflecting the institute's new procedures for Front Offset, Side Impact Collision Evaluation (SICE), Roof Crush and Head Restraint tests.



Powertrain

Power comes from an advanced 24-valve, all-aluminum engine with "intelligent" Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (i-VTEC) technology with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM). The VCM system allows the V-6 engine to operate in six-cylinder mode for power and four- or three-cylinder modes for efficiency. Fuel economy improves for 2012 with an EPA-estimated1 city/highway/combined fuel economy of 17/24/20 mpg on 4-wheel-drive models and 18/25/21 mpg on 2-wheel-drive models. Representing a 1-mpg increase in City, a 2-mpg increase in Highway and a 2-mpg increase in city.



Combined, this gives the 2012 Pilot 2WD the highest fuel economy of any 8-passenger SUV and the Pilot 4WD the highest fuel economy for any mid-size 4WD SUV.Fuel-efficiency enhancements include the application of engine friction-reduction technologies including a plateau-honed engine block, low-friction piston treatments, ion-plated oil rings and a load-variable alternator. The use of dual-electrode spark plugs, 0W-20 low-friction oil and low-friction automatic transmission fluid contribute to higher efficiency. The VCM operation range has also been expanded.The 5-speed automatic transmission features Grade Logic Control to help maintain the most appropriate gear when going uphill or downhill, thereby avoiding gear "hunting." The available VTM-4 system on Pilot 4WD models adds fully automatic 4-wheel-drive capability. VTM-4 delivers seamless, "decision-free" application of 4-wheel-drive when needed, a key benefit compared to conventional systems. The system also provides a "lock mode" - available when in first or second gears up to 18 mph and activated by a button on the instrument panel - that can deliver the maximum-possible torque transfer to the rear wheels to aid in extraction from extremely low traction or stuck conditions.



Chassis

The suspension is a fully independent system with front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link with trailing arm designs that contribute to responsive driving characteristics for an SUV. The 109.2-inch wheelbase facilitates a smooth ride. A tight turning diameter of 37.9 feet aids maneuverability in tight parking situations.Chassis improvements that directly improve fuel economy include a variable-displacement power steering pump, low-rolling-resistance tires, and low-drag front ventilated and rear disc brakes. Improved aerodynamics, the front strakes, splash shields and inner fenders, and reduced frontal area also contribute to improved fuel economy.



Models and Features

As with the prior model year, the 2012 Pilot is available in four model choices (Pilot LX, EX, EX-L and Touring), and each is offered in either 2-wheel-drive or 4-wheel-drive configuration.Pilot LX

Standard comfort and convenience features on the Pilot LX include a front and rear air conditioning system with air-filtration system, keyless entry with simplified operation, tilt and telescope steering column, cruise control, power windows with auto-up/down driver's and passenger's window, power door and tailgate locks, AM/FM/CD stereo system with seven speakers including a subwoofer and Radio Data System (RDS), trip computer, heat-rejecting tinted glass, integrated Class III towing receiver, and more. For 2012, the Pilot LX adds AAC audio file playback capability from data discs to the CD player.



Pilot EX

The Pilot EX adds a tri-zone automatic climate control system with humidity control and air filtration, a power driver's seat with 10-way power adjustment with lumbar support, security system, XM Radio®5, body-colored side mirrors and door handles, alloy wheels, roof rails, fog lights, exterior temperature indicator, HomeLink® Remote System, and more. For 2012, the Pilot EX now also features Bluetooth HandsFreeLink (previously exclusive to EX-L with Navi and above models), Bluetooth audio streaming and a new 2 GB CD Library (CD-L) replaces the previous 6-disc CD changer.



Pilot EX-L

Additional Pilot EX-L features include leather-trimmed seating surfaces, heated front seats, 4-way power front passenger's seat, one-touch power moonroof, an automatic-dimming rearview mirror and the availability of either the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation SystemTM2 or the Honda DVD Rear Entertainment System with a 9-inch screen. The addition of either the navigation or the entertainment system also adds a 115-volt power outlet. New for 2012 is the addition of a power tailgate to the Pilot EX-L, a USB Audio Interface, and an intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) with QVGA resolution. The i-MID includes a rearview camera display, iPod album artwork display and a user-loadable wallpaper function.



Pilot EX-L with Navigation

The Pilot EX-L with Navigation adds an upgraded navigation system with higher VGA resolution replacing the previous QVGA display and an internal hard drive that replaces the previous model's DVD-based system. New features include FM Traffic, Song by VoiceTM, rearview camera with a 3-mode display and a Multi-Information Display in the center of the gauge cluster.



Pilot Touring

The top-of-the-line Pilot Touring includes the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation SystemTM2 with rearview camera, a Premium Audio System with 10 speakers, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink4 and Audio Streaming (with selected phones), the Honda DVD Rear Entertainment System, two-position memory seats, roof rails, corner and backup sensors, side-mirror integrated turn indicators and more.Colors available for 2012 include Alabaster Silver Metallic, Bali Blue Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, Dark Cherry Pearl, Polished Metal Metallic, Taffeta White, White Diamond Pearl, new Dark Amber Metallic (replaces Mocha Metallic) and new Glacier White (Pilot Touring). Fabric and leather interior color choices, which are matched to selected exterior colors, include beige, black or gray.

2011 Frankfurt: Ford Evos Concept【Video】

Ford released the first images of the Evos concept.

Designed in Germany and built in Italy, the Evos is about as long as a compact car, but the sucker is wide. At 77 inches, it eclipses even the full-size Taurus. The thin lights and glass-bisected roof mirror Ford’s Vertrek crossover from last January’s Detroit auto show.



Key features of the design include the fastback body, muscular haunches, and sporty profile. This dramatic exterior also conceals a four-door, four-seat layout--yes, the Evos features two pairs of gullwing doors--and packages them in a sleek coupe like body.



Other sensors and cloud connectivity will provide "access to historical driver behavior and travel patterns," the automatic said. Such information will calculate optimal fuel and energy efficiency by predicting the destination.



Inside, Evos boasts a driver-oriented cabin with limited switchgear. Instead, the car features a high-tech, cloud-based system of displays that actively grab information to both present it to the driver and to modify the vehicle for various conditions. For example, Ford says that Evos will automatically change steering and suspension response in accordance to varying weather conditions it might discern from cloud-based information sources.

Press Release



Ford Evos Concept - The Ultimate Expression of Ford's New Global Design and Technology Vision

• Ford Evos Concept showcases Ford's first truly global design language and a new vision for customer-focused and intuitive technologies

• Dramatic four-door, four-seat fastback concept with state-of-the-art lithium-ion plug-in hybrid powertrain previews Ford's new global design language with distinctive exterior and interior design cues

• Driver engagement technologies explore seamless enhancement of the driving experience, driver well-being and smart, electrified powertrain.

• Ford Evos Concept makes global debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show

Berlin, Germany, August 31, 2011 - 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."



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.