22-04-2010

Ford Start Concept - Wraps come off new small car concept ahead of Beijing unveil.

It's a false start for Ford. This striking small car was meant to stay under cover until its debut tomorrow at the Beijing Motor Show – but an internet leak has brought its arrival forward.

Called the Start Concept, the Ka-sized machine has been designed by Ford's California-based design offices for ever-growing cities in the Far East. But the real news is under the bonnet, where power comes from a 1.0-litre three-cylinder EcoBoost direct injection turbo engine.

Offering the same performance as a 1.6-litre engine, but with sub-100g/km CO2 emissions, expect to see this unit appear in the Fiesta and the upcoming new Focus next year.

With its cheeky aerodynamic body, the Start Concept looks like the next evolution of the Ka – but Ford is keen to point out it won't be making its way to Europe. That's a shame because its stylish shape would be a hit on UK roads.

It's eco-friendly too, being made of lightweight composite panels.

Inside, the instrument panel can easily be swapped from left to right-hand drive, while the modular construction of the dashboard and one-piece rear seats further cuts production costs.

However, it's not without luxury. And expect to see its MyFord Mobile concept technology appear on upcoming Ford models. This allows owners to plug their smartphones – such as the iPhone – into the car and then control heating, ventilation and air conditioning, via voice control.

Bron | AutoExpress

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