New Edge concept closely previews new large SUV for Europe, production version to go on sale in 2014
The Ford Edge SUV has been revealed at the LA motor show.
The large SUV, seen here in concept form, closely previews a new model which will be launched in Europe next year.
When it goes on sale, the Mondeo-based Edge will form the third entry in Ford’s European SUV range, behind the Fiesta-based EcoSport and the Focus-based Kuga. The model also forms part of Ford’s plans to launch 25 global vehicles in Europe by 2017.
While powertrain and transmission options have yet to be revealed, Ford says the Edge will feature a number of semi-autonomous and assistance technologies to make driving easier.
Among these technologies is Ford’s fully assisted parking aid, which builds on the already in-use active park-assist system. The firm says using the parking aid means drivers can use the prototype system to park the Edge remotely, even outside the vehicle. The parking aid searches for a parking space using ultrasonic sensors and parks itself.
Ford is also using the Edge concept to refine its advanced obstacle avoidance system, which issues a warning if it detects drivers of slow or stationary obstacles in the same lane. If the driver fails to correct the speed of the car, the system can apply brakes and steering to avoid a collision.
Adaptive steering also features on the concept, which changes its weighting and feel depending on the driving conditions.
New active grille shutters are also fitted, which automatically open and close to help control temperatures inside the engine bay by maximising the flow of air.
Ford says the exterior of the Edge is designed to be fluid and athletic, with a relatively muscular appearance.
Inside, the Edge concept features a ten-inch touchscreen central display for infotrainment, which also comes with Ford’s Sync system. A part-leather trim is intended to give the Edge a more upmarket feel.
The company says high-specification models currently account for 70 per cent of sales of the S-Max MPV, with Ford looking to offer the same package of technology and upmarket materials in the SUV market. Ford says it expects sales of SUVs in Europe to grow by 22 per cent before 2018.
The Edge SUV will rival the likes of the Volvo XC90 and Volkswagen Touareg in this country.
Ford’s American boss Joe Hinrichs said: “The Ford Edge Concept is the latest example of a utility vehicle that delivers the attributes global customers value most – design, fuel efficiency, driving dynamics, and customer-focused technology to help the driver feel more confident”.
Read more LA motor show news. Reported by Autocar 20 hours ago.
The Ford Edge SUV has been revealed at the LA motor show.
The large SUV, seen here in concept form, closely previews a new model which will be launched in Europe next year.
When it goes on sale, the Mondeo-based Edge will form the third entry in Ford’s European SUV range, behind the Fiesta-based EcoSport and the Focus-based Kuga. The model also forms part of Ford’s plans to launch 25 global vehicles in Europe by 2017.
While powertrain and transmission options have yet to be revealed, Ford says the Edge will feature a number of semi-autonomous and assistance technologies to make driving easier.
Among these technologies is Ford’s fully assisted parking aid, which builds on the already in-use active park-assist system. The firm says using the parking aid means drivers can use the prototype system to park the Edge remotely, even outside the vehicle. The parking aid searches for a parking space using ultrasonic sensors and parks itself.
Ford is also using the Edge concept to refine its advanced obstacle avoidance system, which issues a warning if it detects drivers of slow or stationary obstacles in the same lane. If the driver fails to correct the speed of the car, the system can apply brakes and steering to avoid a collision.
Adaptive steering also features on the concept, which changes its weighting and feel depending on the driving conditions.
New active grille shutters are also fitted, which automatically open and close to help control temperatures inside the engine bay by maximising the flow of air.
Ford says the exterior of the Edge is designed to be fluid and athletic, with a relatively muscular appearance.
Inside, the Edge concept features a ten-inch touchscreen central display for infotrainment, which also comes with Ford’s Sync system. A part-leather trim is intended to give the Edge a more upmarket feel.
The company says high-specification models currently account for 70 per cent of sales of the S-Max MPV, with Ford looking to offer the same package of technology and upmarket materials in the SUV market. Ford says it expects sales of SUVs in Europe to grow by 22 per cent before 2018.
The Edge SUV will rival the likes of the Volvo XC90 and Volkswagen Touareg in this country.
Ford’s American boss Joe Hinrichs said: “The Ford Edge Concept is the latest example of a utility vehicle that delivers the attributes global customers value most – design, fuel efficiency, driving dynamics, and customer-focused technology to help the driver feel more confident”.
Read more LA motor show news. Reported by Autocar 20 hours ago.