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 reveals Europe's most efficient non-hybrid family car

Ford Motor Company today announced plans to bring ultra-fuel efficient versions of the Ford Focus and Ford Fiesta to Europe in mid-2012 as part of a broader strategy to roll out more green technologies across its line-up under the ECOnetic Technology badge.

At the Frankfurt Motor Show beginning next week, Ford will show two new ultra-efficient models packed with advanced fuel saving technology. The new Focus ECOnetic Technology – featuring first lean NOx adsorbing technology in a Ford diesel – achieves 89 g/km, and the new Fiesta ECOnetic Technology – the first Fiesta with Auto-Start-Stop technology – which delivers 87g/km.



The Focus will be able to travel 100 kilometres on 3.4 litres of fuel (83.1 mpg*), making it the most fuel efficient non-hybrid family car (C segment) in Europe. The Fiesta also achieves top-notch fuel economy, travelling 100 kilometres on 3.3 litres of fuel (85.6 mpg*).

“The Focus and Fiesta ECOnetic Technology will deliver stunning fuel economy and still be fun to drive – a combination that would have seemed impossible a few years ago,” said Dr. Thilo Seibert, manager, Sustainability and Electrification Strategy, Ford of Europe.

Ford also plans to show at Frankfurt a Ford Focus powered by the new 3-cylinder, 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine, which delivers both impressive fuel efficiency and surprising performance due to direct fuel injection and turbocharging.

The three vehicles are part of an aggressive strategy to make leading fuel efficiency and green technologies available to more customers under the Ford ECOnetic Technology badge.

The expansion of ECOnetic Technology is also part of Ford's overall sustainability strategy, including the target of reducing CO2 emissions of its cars by 30 per cent between 2006 and 2020. Since 2006, Ford has achieved an 11 per cent reduction in CO2 and said it’s on track to meet the commitment. A further 10 g/km overall fleet improvement will be achieved within the next two years.

Ford's innovative range of low-CO2 features will be available in an increasing number of Ford vehicles in Europe qualifying them to wear the ECOnetic Technology badge, which will be applied from October to all Ford cars that are the leaders or among the very best in terms of fuel economy in their segments. The badge will appear on more than 30 models by the end of next year.

ECOnetic Technology features like Auto-Start-Stop, Smart Regenerative Charging, Active Grille Shutter, ECO Mode and other fuel-saving features are already or will be available on Fiesta, C-MAX, Grand C-MAX, Focus, Mondeo, S-MAX and Galaxy by the end of this year. Ford is the only non-premium manufacturer currently offering Active Grille Shutter.

In terms of sales, about half of Ford cars sold in the second half of 2012 in Europe will carry the ECOnetic Technology badge – increasing to an expected two-thirds by mid-2013.

The ECOnetic Technology badged petrol and diesel passenger cars will be powered by the 1.0-litre or 1.6-litre EcoBoost engines or the 1.6-litre TDCi diesel engine – all commercial vehicles will be powered by lean Stage V TDCi diesel engines.

The ECOnetic Technology range also will include all the electrified Ford models, the Ford Focus Electric, an all-electric vehicle that debuts next year, and the C-MAX Hybrid and C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid coming to market in 2013.

"The Ford ECOnetic Technology initiative will include more and more Ford vehicles in the near future and we're confident that our customers will appreciate the substantial improvements in fuel economy and cost-of-ownership,” said Graham Hoare, executive director, Powertrain, Ford of Europe.

Latest Low-CO2 Technologies
To achieve the outstanding fuel economy, Fiesta and Focus ECOnetic Technology employ the latest low-CO2 technologies in their powertrains, aerodynamics and driver information systems, including:

- Auto-Start-Stop – Ford Auto-Start-Stop system – which will be available in every Ford car-line from end of 2012 – automatically shuts down the engine when the vehicle is at idle – at a traffic light, for example – and restarts the engine when the driver wants to move off, saving the fuel wasted while the vehicle is stationary. This can reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 10 per cent in urban driving.
- Smart Regenerative Charging– Fiesta and Focus ECOnetic Technology feature an enhanced new version of this system, which increases the alternator output when the vehicle brakes or decelerates. This converts the kinetic energy of the vehicle into electric energy without having to use additional fuel. The ‘free’ electric current is used to recharge the battery, so that it can be used by the electrical systems at a later stage. An advanced battery management system continually monitors the charging status so that the regenerative charging feature can charge the battery in the optimal way.
- Ford Eco Mode – Ford Eco Mode is a driver information system that helps drivers change their habits and adopt a more economical driving style, with potential fuel savings for many drivers of about 10 per cent. Sophisticated software – developed with the help of professional green driving tutors – monitors driving behaviour, and provides the driver with clear feedback about their eco-driving performance, along with simple tips about how to save more fuel. A simple flower graphic in the instrument cluster display allows drivers to track their progress in the three key areas of gear shifting, anticipation and speed.
- Gearshift Indicator– Shift Indicator Light can be a major support for drivers prioritising economy. An indicator light, which is displayed in the instrument cluster, alerts drivers when they could reduce fuel consumption by shifting into a higher gear.

Both the Fiesta and Focus ECOnetic Technology feature a number of other low-CO2 technologies which are also standard items on most models in the new Focus and Fiesta line-ups. These include:

- Electric Power Assisted Steering
- Low-friction engine and transmission oils
- Low rolling resistance tyres
- Low tension Front End Accessory Drive
- Thermal Management Systems to optimise warm-up of engine

Unique High-Efficiency Engine
Powering both ECOnetic Technology models is a new version of the 1.6-litre Ford Duratorq TDCi diesel engine – producing 95 PS in the Fiesta and 105 PS in the Focus – which has been optimised for enhanced fuel efficiency with a new injection system, additional friction reduction features, more efficient combustion system, enhanced cooling and revised engine management.

The common rail fuel injection system of the shared diesel engine has been completely redesigned, with improved eight-hole injectors and controlled by a more powerful engine management system. The new injection system delivers more precise control and increased combustion efficiency.

To provide more accurate control of the charge air temperature and to deliver a cooler, denser charge, the Focus engine's intake system features a water-cooled charge cooler in place of the standard air-to-air system. This reduces pumping losses and allows cooler, denser charge on acceleration. The Focus also uses a new variable geometry turbocharger design as opposed to the Fiesta's fixed geometry unit.

Another feature that is unique for the Focus ECOnetic Technology is the lean NOx trap in combination with a coated diesel particulate filter. Originally addressing NOx emissions only, it is a key enabler of the record low CO2 emissions as it allows an even leaner combustion process in the engine. The NOx emissions are adsorbed in the trap and neutralised into nitrogen and water in the regeneration phase of the trap.

Other new, or completely revised, engine features that enhance the fuel efficiency of both models include:

- Reduced engine friction from low-friction piston ring coatings and variable flow oil pump
- Additional reduction in engine losses from low inertia vacuum pump and asymmetric crank sprocket design

The 1.6-litre diesel in the Focus ECOnetic Technology is paired with Ford’s six-speed Durashift manual transmission, which is also used in other new Focus models with the 1.6-litre TDCi diesel and the 1.6-litre EcoBoost petrol engines. This transmission is a new high-efficiency design which has been optimised to eliminate frictional losses, utilising special low friction transmission oil and a revised final drive ratio to offer improved fuel economy when cruising in top gear.

The lighter Fiesta ECOnetic Technology uses a five-speed manual transmission that also has been optimised to eliminate frictional losses. Enhanced gear ratios with a longer final drive mean the Fiesta will also prove highly economical on longer motorway journeys.

"We achieved the low emissions and the class-leading fuel economy by analysing every single detail in the engine and transmission and effectively applying all our leading edge powertrain technologies wherever possible. And, importantly, we didn't sacrifice the performance feel of the engine – it still delivers substantial power and torque," Graham Hoare said.

Exclusive Aerodynamic Packages
The Focus ECOnetic Technology builds on the excellent aerodynamics of the standard all-new Focus’ bodyshell (5-door CD = 0.295) to further improve the drag co-efficient with a host of innovations including undershields and deflectors. A particularly effective additional feature is the standard advanced Active Grille Shutter.

Active Grille Shutter is an innovative system that optimises aerodynamics by using vents to control airflow through the grille to the cooling system and engine compartment. If air is required to cool the engine the vents are opened; but if no airflow is needed, the vents are shut, thereby significantly reducing aerodynamic drag.

The motorised horizontal vanes in the grille, that can be rotated into 16 different positions, are automatically controlled by the car’s electronic control unit – from fully closed to fully open – depending on the amount of air required. When fully closed, the reduction in drag means that the Active Grille Shutter can reduce CO2 emissions by two per cent.

Fiesta ECOnetic Technology has an exclusive aerodynamics package itself, with specially developed undershields to help air pass unobstructed beneath the car. Rear wheel spoilers also help deflect wind past the wheel arches, helping to significantly reduce the amount of drag induced.

"ECOnetic Technology effectively encompasses all the elements that make a car more fuel-efficient and we're constantly improving these elements – and making them available in more and more Ford cars," Thilo Seibert ends.

| Ford

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

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

El prototipo del nuevo Ford Focus ST ya rueda sobre las carreteras

If a new Ford Focus with an eye-catching paint job, ground-hugging suspension, big wheels and tyres and a tell-tale central rear double exhaust passes you on the autobahn, chances are you have seen one of the development prototypes for the new high-performance Focus ST launching next year.

In Europe and North America, Ford’s Team RS and SVT engineering teams are putting a fleet of around 60 pre-production prototypes through a punishing regime of testing and development to fine-tune the car’s driving dynamics and performance.



“The new Focus ST is eagerly awaited around the world, which is appropriate as this is our first global performance model,” said Jost Capito, Ford’s director of Global Performance Vehicles. “It must live up to Ford’s reputation for producing affordable yet exciting and sporty versions of its smaller cars that reward and delight enthusiast drivers, but can also be used every day.

“We’ve done all the engineering groundwork, and now we’re using some of the most demanding roads we can find in Europe and North America to validate and fine tune the performance and driving dynamics.”

The new Focus ST will be powered by a high-performance version of Ford’s new 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine, targeting an exhilarating 250PS, while still delivering significantly better fuel economy than the previous generation Focus ST.

“Fuel efficiency is a key leadership target for Ford Motor Company globally. We want to be class-leading even with a performance vehicle, so we’re working on getting the best possible blend of high power and fuel economy from the new ST,” said Matthias Tonn, chief program engineer, Global Performance Products, Ford of Europe.

Recently, the development team completed demanding cold weather testing in northern Europe, as well as exacting tests to refine steering performance.

“We’re fine-tuning, testing, and fine tuning again many of the small but critical details to make sure it is worthy of the ST badge,” Tonn said. “We will build upon and improve the ride, steering and handling strengths that defined the current European Focus ST.”

With the new Focus ST, a key focal point for the Ford development team is to deliver an even more engaging driver experience - from its highly tuned Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) system to unique, driver-orientated seats.

“The seats and seating position were very good in the previous Focus ST, but the new model is sleeker and the driver will sit lower. The new seats which will provide even more support,” Tonn said.

The all-new Focus ST is Ford’s first global performance car, conceived under the One Ford strategy. It brings the ST performance badge to North American and Asian customers for the first time.

“Like the Focus ST and RS models before it, the new Focus ST’s final set-up will be achieved after painstaking tuning on some of the most demanding roads we can find from California to the Nürburgring, and from high-speed German autobahns to classic British B-roads,” Capito added.

| Ford