Ford of Europe Showcases Most Extensive Range Ever at the 2002 Paris Show

September 2002 (Newstream) -- Ford boasts its youngest and most comprehensive range of cars and commercial vehicles ever at the Paris Mondial de l'Automobile, 2002. The Ford range includes all-new products, new technologies and niche derivative models.

Leading Ford's charge at Paris is the stylish production Streetka roadster, chosen by pop superstar Kylie Minogue as her co-star during her 2002 European concert tour. The Streetka goes on sale in the spring of 2003 and spearheads a rejuvenated Ka range, including the introduction of an exciting Sportka model next year.

At the top of Ford's Commercial line-up are the all-new Transit Connect and Tourneo Connect small commercials. These tough, purpose-built new models will satisfy a broader spectrum of customer requirements, and extend the respected Transit and Tourneo brands to a new group of commercial vehicle users.

But Streetka and Transit Connect are just the start. Joining them on stage at Paris are a host of new Ford vehicles and technologies:

Ford Ka moves up a gear and becomes a family with the addition of the stylish Streetka roadster and exciting Sportka The all-new Fiesta range is extended with a new three-door model and new technology options The all-new Ford Fusion Urban Activity Vehicle benefits from new Durashift-EST transmission and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) options For performance purists, the World Rally Car inspired Focus RS enters production this month Ford's accessible Sport Technologies, or ST models extend the Focus and Mondeo ranges Ford Mondeo gains a new 115 PS TDCi diesel and the Durashift 5-tronic transmission Ford's Duratorq TDCi range of diesel powertrains expands to include a new 100 PS version for the best-selling Focus. Ford Duratorq TDCi technology is now available across the heart of the Ford range from 68 PS to 130 PS, from Fiesta to Transit. Direct-Injection Spark Ignition (DISI) petrol engine technology for uncompromised performance and low fuel consumption will enter the range later in 2003 when Ford of Europe starts production of a new generation of engines called Duratec Sci - for 'Smart Charge injection'. Ford's all-new Transit Connect and Tourneo Connect are built to take on the small commercial vehicle market with the same levels of strength and dependability as the full size Transit The versatile Ford Ranger gets a new look, new features and a new pillarless four-door Super Cab "Since we embarked on our aggressive, product-led Transformation Strategy, our product development pace has trebled and the results are under the lights here in Paris," said Martin Leach, Ford of Europe's President and Chief Operating Officer. "Great new products like the Streetka and Transit Connect are central to the growing appeal of the Ford brand and are the driving force behind the new strength of our European business."

In early 2000, Ford promised 45 new product actions over five years. Starting with the heart of the range, the all-new Mondeo, winner of Germany's "Golden Steering Wheel Award" in 2001, and all-new Transit, voted International Van of the Year 2001, have been followed by the introduction of an all-new small car range including the Ford Fiesta and Ford Fusion.

"We are more than two thirds through our "45 in 5" plans," said Leach, " and now we are exploring new niches with cars like the Streetka, and new technologies like Direct Injection petrol engines.

"The energy and excitement at Ford grows with every new product launch, and I can assure you that the story is far from over!"

The New FORD Ka Range -- small looms larger!

Enhanced Ka with new 1.3-litre Duratec engine Stylish, sexy Streetka roadster makes its production debut Introducing Sportka, another fun-to-drive Ka-based derivative The 2002 Paris Motor Show confirms Ford of Europe's commitment to the Ford Ka, which six years ago brought original thinking to the sub-B car sector. Ka the car now becomes Ka the family, as Ford introduces an enhanced Ka and two new siblings - the stylish Streetka two-seat roadster and the lively, fun-to-drive Sportka, both destined for launch in 2003.

Ford Ka

Ford Ka was first launched at the Paris Show in 1996. It pioneered Ford's 'New Edge' design philosophy and won three major international style awards in the process. Ka's low-cost, innovatively engineered, fun-to-drive package has proved itself, with over one million Ka models sold so far. Many Ka customers are 'first-time' Ford buyers lured to the brand by the car's style, an important purchase motivator in the sub-B class.

Ka's bold design is still distinctive, setting the vehicle apart from its competitors. Aware of the enduring appeal of the Ka, Ford has been determined to be faithful to the one-of-a-kind shape that has been its signature.

The original icon keeps its celebrated looks but benefits from an all-new engine, the 1.3-litre Duratec 8V, as well as enhanced colour, trim and feature content. These include:

A new hybrid analogue/LCD instrument cluster with tachometer, electronic odometer and low fuel warning light. Windscreen auto-wash-wipe function. Optional parking distance sensors. Optional passenger airbag deactivation switch. New wheel covers for steel wheels. New 14-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels for the Luxury series. Ford Streetka

Streetka is Ford's first sub-B convertible, and the car that made it into series production literally 'by popular demand'.

Originally presented as a design concept by Ghia, it was the star of the 2000 Turin Motor Show, and the media and public were won over by the transformation from neat four-seater hatchback to desirable two-seater roadster with distinctive front and rear styling.

Such was the reaction that Ford of Europe enlisted the specialists Industrie Pininfarina SpA, of Turin, Italy, as engineering partners to produce a limited production run of Streetkas to Ford's exacting quality standards, while keeping true to the show car's original intent. Streetka will go on sale early in 2003.

The Streetka philosophy truly fits with the character of the Ka, while exemplifying Ford's plans to expand its development of derivative products.

Streetka offers open-air fun in a desirable, stylish, and high quality yet affordable two-seater package. Its stunning looks have remained true to the original concept and are well matched by peppy performance from its new 1.6-litre Duratec 8V 95 PS engine and sharp driving dynamics.

While clearly based on the Ka hatchback, the Streetka is effectively a unique body structure engineered especially to produce this small roadster.

The Streetka is expected to attract the fashionistas to the Ka range: 20 or 30-something young singles or starting-out couples, for whom fashion and music are key interests. Streetka has already touched the popular music scene as one of the leading sponsors for Kylie Minogue's 2002 European 'Fever' concert tour. 'Teaser' appearances of the vehicle at tour venues brought Streetka's 'look at me' styling directly to these consumers.

It also achieves several notable 'firsts' for Ford of Europe:

It is the first sub-B roadster to wear the Ford badge. It is the first Ford to be produced in cooperation with Industrie Pininfarina SpA. It is the first Ford car to be built in Italy. Ford Sportka

Completing the trio, Ford is previewing at Paris is the 'edgier' Sportka, which brings the looks and demeanour of its sister Streetka to the original Ka body.

Sharing many of Streetka's underpinnings, it offers a sportier contemporary version of Ka that is even more dynamic and fun to drive. Combining Ka's hard-top body with Streetka's more potent 1.6-litre Duratec 8V engine, attention-grabbing styling and unique equipment gives Sportka a purposeful air. It appears lower and sleeker with a more planted stance thanks to front and rear design elements that accentuate the lower half of the body shape.

The Sportka is not only inspired by the Streetka's looks but also its driving dynamics. Ford's Driving Quality team simply couldn't resist the temptation to put a smile on the face of anyone who climbs behind the wheel.

Sportka's chassis is based on the Streetka, and carefully tuned to optimise the handling and steering capability of a small hatchback. Increased roll stiffness and improved toe and camber control complement the powerful brakes and precise steering to ensure a driving quality with a sportier edge. It also features the 16-inch wheels and tyres and wider track of Streetka.

Further technical details of Sportka will be released closer to launch in the second half of 2003.

FORD FIESTA - NOW WITH 3 DOORS AND NEW TECHNOLOGIES

New three-door model joins the range New Durashift EST automatic-shift manual transmission introduced Optional electronic stability programme (ESP) system added Paris also sees the extension of the all-new Ford Fiesta range, and Ford's new generation of small cars.

Following the staged introduction in 2002 of the Fiesta 5-door and all-new Ford Fusion Urban Activity Vehicle, the Ford Fiesta now appears as an attractive 3-door model, and pioneers the introduction of two new technology options for both the new Fiesta and Fusion ranges: the Durashift EST automatic-shift manual transmission system and a new Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) system.

Ford Fiesta 3-door

The new Fiesta three-door embodies the dependable strengths of the new Fiesta family - style, space, safety, driving quality and value. The three-door model is destined for Ford dealerships before year-end.

It evokes a unique image that distinguishes it from its five-door counterpart. Compact, sportier and even more dynamic, the Fiesta three-door is aimed at the younger driver, who is more likely to be single.

It also benefits from a special body colour at launch and featured in Paris: a distinctive metallic burnt orange, called Flare. Fiesta three-door customers can also select from 12 other exterior colours.

The Fiesta three-door convincingly dispels the old adage that three-door cars are smaller and less comfortable than their five-door counterparts. It boasts the same spaciousness and comfort plus excellent rear-seat accessibility.

It also continues the impressive safety story already established by the new Fiesta five-door model, equipped with the advanced Intelligent Protection System of dual-stage air bags that is standard equipment across the Fiesta range.

Like the five-door model, the new Fiesta three-door offers a range of modern and dependable powertrain units with responsive performance and refined driveability, plus fuel economy up to 10 per cent better than its predecessor on the new European driving cycle used for homologation testing:

Duratorq TDCi 1.4-litre (68 PS) - Fiesta's new-generation common-rail turbodiesel engine delivers impressive power, economy, lower emissions and refinement. Mated with Fiesta's capable chassis, it provides enjoyable responsiveness with a new level of small-car driving quality. Duratec 16V - 1.4-litre (80 PS), 1.6-litre (100 PS) - Two output derivatives of the Duratec 16V double overhead cam petrol engine are available. Developed from the Ford Focus unit, both deliver excellent fuel economy with increased torque at lower engine speeds. Duratec 8V 1.3-litre (70 PS) - A new addition to the Fiesta family, the Duratec 8V has been developed specially to offer impressive fuel economy, low emissions, plus optimal idle stability and refinement. Ford Durashift EST System

A new Durashift EST (Electronic Shift Technology) automatic-shift manual transmission provides Fiesta and Fusion customers with the benefits of an automatic transmission without the usual small-car drawbacks, plus the flexibility of manual-style shifting without a clutch pedal.

Durashift EST will be available on Fiesta models equipped with the 1.4-litre Duratec 16V petrol engine and the 1.4-litre Duratorq TDCi common-rail diesel engine, and Fusion models equipped with those powertrains.

Ford Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) system

An optional Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) system will broaden Ford's driver-orientated small car technologies. This advanced driving aid senses the vehicle's response to steering inputs and automatically intervenes to correct the vehicle's movement if it differs from the driver's intention. ESP is especially valuable in helping the driver maintain control when encountering unexpected road conditions. ESP is available in selected markets on Fiesta and Fusion models equipped with Duratorq TDCi and 1.6-litre Duratec 16V engines.

FORD FUSION - URBAN CONFIDENCE

Urban Activity Vehicle is part of Ford's new generation of small cars Large-car road presence in a small car footprint Durashift EST automatic-shift manual transmission and electronic stability programme (ESP) system options introduced Joining the Fiesta models in the Paris 'new generation of small cars' spotlight is the ruggedly stylish, spacious and agile Ford Fusion. This first Urban Activity Vehicle expects to appeal to a new generation of young couples embracing urban life across Europe.

Fusion combines attributes of sport utility vehicles, multi-activity vehicles and small hatchbacks to create a vehicle with a unique character. With no more than a small-car footprint, Fusion provides more space for the modern family's everyday needs in a body structure that offers great protection... all without sacrificing the manoeuvrability that's essential in city traffic.

Fusion achieves the road presence of a larger vehicle, asserting itself confidently on city streets and inspiring driver confidence with its commanding driving position and excellent outward visibility, but with the agility and economy of a small car.

Its modern, individual style and generous interior space can fit with many different lifestyles and customer requirements, but Ford expects it to appeal especially to young urban couples - mainly with children - who are looking for a smart, tailored answer to their complex transport needs.

Fusion now offers both the Durashift EST automatic-shift manual transmission (for models powered by the 1.4-litre Duratec 16V petrol engine and the 1.4-litre Duratorq TDCi common-rail diesel engine) and optional ESP (on models equipped with the Duratorq TDCi diesel engine and the 1.6-litre Duratec 16V petrol engine).

RS AND ST - FORD RETURNS TO PERFORMANCE CARS

Focus RS, the ultimate Focus for the street, is reinvigorating the RS brand Focus ST170 and Mondeo ST220 highlight Sport Technologies range True to the commitment made by Ford President and COO Martin Leach, Ford of Europe is firmly back in the performance car market with an exciting range of models - the accessible, dependable performance of the Sports Technologies (ST) Focus ST170 and Mondeo ST220, and for performance purists, the exhilaration of the WRC-inspired Focus RS.

Ford Focus RS

The Ford Focus RS is ready to take its place as the ultimate Focus for the street, reinvigorating the legendary RS brand across Europe.

Unashamedly inspired by the Focus WRC, and conceived as a pure driver's car, the new Focus RS delivers a true performance edge with a harmonious balance of exhilarating power and acceleration, confident and precise dynamics and steering capabilities, impressive braking efficiency, aggressive exterior styling and a purposeful, driver-oriented interior.

With authenticity in mind, the Focus RS provides the performance purist with many of the same proven and respected performance technologies used by Ford's World Rally team. Focus RS incorporates respected motorsport brand names including Sparco (seats), Garrett Technologies (turbocharger), O.Z. Racing (wheels), Brembo (brakes), Sachs Racing (dampers), Quaife (differential) and AP Racing (clutch).

Powering Focus RS is a turbocharged, 2.0-litre, Duratec RS engine derived from the 130 PS, naturally aspirated, four-cylinder Duratec engine that leads the mainstream Focus petrol range. Duratec RS delivers peak (homologated) horsepower of 215 PS (158 kW) at 5,500 rpm, an increase of 65 per cent. Torque output has been increased even more, by over 70 per cent, to a peak of 310 Nm (227 lb ft) at 3,500 rpm.

Impressive performance statistics include zero-to-60 mph acceleration in 6.4 seconds (0 - 100 kph in 6.7 seconds), 60-100 mph fourth-gear acceleration in only 9.8 seconds (50-100 kph in 8.2 seconds), a top speed of 144 mph (232 kph), braking forces exceeding 1.0 g and lateral roadholding of 0.94 g, which exceeds many renowned, purpose-built sports cars.

Despite the performance intent and aggressive stance, the new Focus RS features superb driving comfort and practicality for everyday driving and remains well mannered and tractable around town. A dual personality, which offers uncompromised functionality, comfort and dependability alongside a high-performance capability for spirited driving, is the key to the character of this contemporary interpretation of the Ford RS brand.

Ford Focus ST170

In addition to the new RS, Ford also offers its Sport Technologies philosophy of accessible, dependable performance.

Sport Technologies (ST) is Ford's brand philosophy for performance derivative models that will appeal to driving enthusiasts without straying from the core brand character of the base vehicle. Key imperatives for ST are affordability, accessibility and the dependability consumers expect from mainstream cars.

The Focus ST170 offers 40 more horsepower than its 2.0-litre mainstream counterpart, plus a new six-speed gearbox, 17-inch alloy wheels and low-profile tyres, powerful brakes, suspension tweaks, and subtle performance styling to match.

Focus ST170 offers balanced performance, handling and braking capabilities. Capable of zero-to-100-kph acceleration in 8.2 seconds (0-60 mph 7.9 seconds), a top speed of 215 kph (134 mph) and confidently short stopping distances (36.3 metres from 100 kph to zero; 34.1 metres from 60 mph), ST170 has a contagious fun-to-drive character.

Ford's Special Vehicle Engineering (SVE) team has squeezed 173 PS/127 kW (at 7,000 rpm) of power out of the 16-valve Duratec ST 2.0-litre engine. Its performance feel is characterised by its responsiveness to driver inputs. Duratec ST's unique flow characteristics deliver excellent low-end torque, with 85 percent of peak torque (196 Nm at 5,500 rpm) coming at 2,200 rpm and a minimum of 190 Nm available between 2,500 rpm and 6,000 rpm.

A Getrag close-ratio manual transaxle contributes to ST170's athletic driveability as the driver accelerates eagerly through the gears towards the car's ultimate high-speed cruising potential. It features a twin-layshaft design that is central to its compactness, and a dual-mass flywheel contributes to reduced noise and vibration while enhancing shift quality.

Low-profile P215/45R17 tyres mounted on exclusive 15-spoke, 17x7-inch alloy wheels put the power to the road. The combination gives ST170 a poised stance and precise dynamics capabilities to match. Its roadholding lateral acceleration is 0.89 g.

The Focus ST170 is offered in the three- and five-door Focus body styles.

Ford Mondeo ST220

Ford Mondeo ST220 takes its place as the flagship of the Mondeo range.

It combines impressive power, exclusive performance styling and Mondeo's acclaimed dynamic capabilities to create a grand touring car with spirited driving quality.

Powered by a new 3.0-litre, 24-valve V6 engine, Mondeo ST220 is available in all three bodystyles of the Mondeo range - four-door, five-door and wagon. Unique design elements on both the exterior and interior differentiate ST220's exclusive performance character and accentuate its poised, confident stance.

Mondeo ST220 features a specially engineered Duratec ST 3.0-litre, quad-cam V6 engine. Zero-to-100-kph acceleration is 7.1 seconds (0-60 mph 6.8 seconds) and the targeted top speed is 243 kph (151 mph). The quad-cam aluminium V6 features a performance-optimised intake system to deliver the pulling power of 226 PS (166 kW) at 6,150 rpm and 280 Nm of torque peaking at 4,900 rpm.

Mondeo ST220 is equipped with Ford's MTX75 five-speed manual transmission, geared especially match the Duratec ST V6 engine, but with additional emphasis on shifting quality and smoothness. A dual-mass flywheel enhances shifting quality.

The solid underpinnings of Mondeo's chassis have been tuned for the higher performance levels of the ST220. Lowered by 15 mm, the tuned suspension gives the car a road-hugging stance, augmented by 18x7-inch, 16-spoke light aluminium alloy wheels and Continental SportContact P225/40R18 tyres.

Tailored suspension geometry and the sophisticated tuning of springs and dampers gives a smooth, level ride even on bumpy roads.

Mondeo ST220 features a high level of feature content, from performance styling cues - sculpted aerodynamic features and stainless-steel dual exhausts - to subtle signs of executive elegance - custom leather Recaro front seats and a unique instrument panel treatment.

FORD Mondeo - Fresh appeal AND premium technologies

New 115 PS variant extends customer choice for popular Duratorq TDCi engines Durashift 5-tronic automatic transmission extends driving quality of top models The breadth and appeal of the Ford Mondeo range is now even greater, thanks to the ST220 and new technologies that confirm its place as Ford's European flagship.

The range now benefits from more powertrain choices, with Ford's Duratorq TDCi family of new-generation common-rail engines and a sophisticated new premium five-speed automatic transmission, the Durashift 5-tronic.

Ford Mondeo Duratorq TDCi 115 PS

Ford is expanding its acclaimed Duratorq TDCi range of premium common-rail turbodiesel engines. A new 115 PS Duratorq TDCi 2.0-litre engine joins the Mondeo range alongside the popular 130 PS TDCi, and the 90 PS Duratorq TDdi.

The new 115 PS (85 kW / 113 bhp at 4,000 rpm) Duratorq TDCi provides impressive levels of torque peaking at 280 Nm (205 lb ft) at 1,900 rpm to enhance Mondeo's acknowledged driving quality. Despite its power and torque, fuel consumption is extremely low, not only on the official European test cycle but in the real world of everyday driving.

Mondeos equipped with the 115 PS Duratorq TDCi are homologated for fuel economy, in litres per 100 kilometres, of 7.9 (35.8 mpg) urban, 4.5 (62.8 mpg) extra urban and 5.7 (49.6 mpg) combined for the Mondeo 4-door and 5-door models equipped with a manual transmission. CO2 emissions are rated at 152 grams per kilometre, and Mondeos in this configuration have a top speed of 195 kph (121 mph).

The performance and fuel economy ratings of 115 PS Duratorq TDCi-equipped Mondeo wagon and automatic transmission models vary slightly.

Ford Mondeo Durashift 5-tronic

Mondeo's new five-speed automatic transmission, the new Durashift 5-tronic, enhances the refinement and driving quality at the top of the Ford Mondeo range.

The Durashift 5-tronic is offered for the top-of-the-range Mondeos, available on models equipped with the 170 PS, 24-valve Duratec V6 engine and both Duratorq TDCi common-rail turbodiesel engines.

A 'no regrets' choice, even for those drivers who've said they would never drive an automatic, Durashift 5-tronic has been designed to enhance Mondeo's acknowledged driving quality. Its characteristics include new levels of smoothness and robustness for high-torque engines, without compromising fuel efficiency.

FORD TDCi - EXTENDING THE SUCCESS

Duratorq TDCi common-rail engines now cover the heart of the Ford range Focus broadens its TDCi range with new 100 PS variant TDCi available from 68 PS to 130 PS, from Fiesta to Transit Durashift 5-tronic features a next-generation Automatic Transmission Control Unit (ATCU). Its sophisticated control logic delivers not only new levels of shifting smoothness and efficient operation, but also allows the transmission to adapt to the driver's style - and adjust to varying road conditions.

Durashift 5-tronic thinks like a manual, selecting from among 11 different operational modes depending on conditions or driver demands.

Ford has delivered on its commitment to extend the appeal of the latest generation of high-pressure common-rail diesel engines across the heart of its product range. Ford Duratorq TDCi engines are now available for Fiesta, Fusion, Focus, Mondeo, Transit and Transit Connect models, and with displacements ranging from 68 PS to 130 PS.

Ford Focus TDCi 100 PS

The Ford Focus, which pioneered the introduction of TDCi into the Ford range, will now offer customers more choice, with two displacements. The Focus TDCi range expands with an appealing new 100 PS engine choice alongside the established and acclaimed 115 PS model.

Today's contemporary common-rail injection technology provides significant enhancements in terms of power, torque, refinement, fuel economy and emissions capability. It means that diesel customers can have benefits similar to those of petrol engine owners while enjoying the impressive fuel economy and cost of ownership benefits characterised by diesel engines.

The European C-segment diesel engine market is rapidly expanding, and expected to increase by 50 percent in the next two years. Ford's new Duratorq TDCi 100 PS engine is aimed at customers who want the engine performance and refinement benefits of second-generation common-rail technology combined with excellent real-world fuel economy.

The introduction of the 100 PS Duratorq TDCi gives Focus customers a wider choice of diesel engines. It joins the premium-performance 115 PS TDCi engine and a 90 PS TDdi in the Focus diesel range.

The new Duratorq TDCi has a peak power output of 100 PS at 3,850 rpm. Employing high diesel-engine turbo pressure rates of up to 1.2 bar, its steady state torque of 240 Nm at 1,750 rpm is higher than the TDdi's 200 Nm and slightly lower than the 250 Nm of the premium performance 115 PS Duratorq TDCi. Focus models equipped with the new 100 PS engine have a top speed of 185 kph (115 mph).

On the official European driving cycle for fuel consumption testing, the engine is targeted to offer a combined fuel economy, in litres per 100 kilometres, of 7.0 urban (40.4 mpg), 4.2 extra urban (67.3 mpg) and 5.2 combined (54.3 mpg). CO2 emissions in the combined mode are homologated at 138 grams per kilometre.

Ford Duratec SCi - New GENERATION, NEW TECHNOLOGY

Ford of Europe will start production of a new generation of engines in 2003 Duratec SCi (Smart Charge injection) for Direct-Injection-Spark-Ignition (DISI) Targeted to deliver uncompromised performance and low fuel consumption Incorporation of diesel-inspired direct fuel-injection and small displacements Ford of Europe will start production of a new generation of engines featuring Direct-Injection Spark-Ignition (DISI) petrol engine technology before the end of 2003. The new range will be launched as Duratec SCi - for 'Smart Charge injection'.

The new range of advanced petrol engines will incorporate diesel-inspired direct fuel injection and small engine displacements to deliver uncompromised performance and low fuel consumption. Ultimately, the range will include some turbocharged derivatives, including the 1.1-litre, three-cylinder turbocharged unit showcased at the 2002 Geneva Show, and at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show.

For the busy urban motorist, Duratec SCi provides the performance feel of a larger displacement engine without sacrificing fuel economy. Where fitted, the small turbocharger increases torque output and expands the usable range of the torque band. Variable cam timing helps to ensure the robustly low fuel consumption and efficient emissions levels.

"Our Duratec SCi range will transfer direct-injection principles first seen on diesel engines to a range of small, light petrol engines," said Martin Leach. "This is a prime example of how Ford's vision of incorporating practical and advanced engineering concepts in our new products is being realised through our transformation strategy", he added.

Further technical details of the Duratec SCi range of engines, and the individual vehicles they are to power, will be released closer to launch.

Ford Commercial Vehicles -- SMART OPERATORS

Stronger-than-ever Ford line-up featured on dedicated stand at Paris All-new Transit Connect and Tourneo Connect widen the range Ford Transit extends Duratorq TDCi benefits for commercial vehicle operators Ford Ranger features enhancements and new, pillarless four-door Super Cab Ford's Commercial Vehicle line-up is stronger than ever, and features on a dedicated stand at the Paris 2002 Mondial de l'Automobile.

The all-new Transit Connect and Tourneo Connect models appear alongside the proven medium commercial van market leader, Ford Transit. Their story is highlighted by the availability of latest generation common-rail diesel engine technology for commercial vehicle operators.

Ford also is featuring an enhanced Ranger pick-up model.

Ford 'Connects' with new Transit Connect / Tourneo Connect

Transit Connect and Tourneo Connect widen the Ford commercial vehicle range and provide an opportunity to satisfy a broader spectrum of customer requirements, while extending the respected Transit and Tourneo brands to a new group of commercial vehicle users.

Outstanding durability was a key element in the creation of both small commercial vehicle models. Transit Connect and Tourneo Connect have been constructed and tested to medium commercial vehicle standards, an approach reflected in their robust, solid appearance.

Transit Connect is designed to lead its class with an outstanding combination of load space functionality, versatility and space utilisation.

The short-wheelbase model has a load cube of 2.8 cu m and, with the fold-flat passenger seat deployed, provides 3.41 cu m. Minimum width between wheel arches on SWB variants is 1,226 mm with a 1,739 mm load length using standard seats and 2,467 mm with the passenger seat folded flat.

The long-wheelbase, high-roof Transit Connect boasts a load cube of 3.67 cu m, or 4.36 cu m with the fold-flat passenger seat option. LWB models have a maximum load length of 1,986 mm with the standard seat or 2,714 mm with the fold-flat seat.

Transit Connect can be fitted with a wide choice of bulkheads behind the seats. These provide isolation from the cargo and prevent any cargo shift into the driver's compartment. Transit/Tourneo Connect features highly economical diesel and petrol engines. The 75 PS Duratorq TDdi diesel engine (Transit Connect only) is one of the most fuel-efficient engines in its class, while the 90 PS Duratorq TDCi common rail unit brings increased engine efficiency to the sector. The four-valve per cylinder Duratec 16V, 1.8-litre petrol unit provides 115 PS for competitive economy with increased engine refinement.

In keeping with Ford's commitment to driving quality, both front and rear suspension systems have been designed and engineered to provide class-leading levels of durability, reliability, ride and handling characteristics. This approach enhances driver control to provide high standards of active safety.

Ford Transit

Ford has now introduced a Duratorq TDCi 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine into the diverse Transit powertrain range. The 125 PS (123 bhp/93 kW) engine offers commercial vehicle customers increased torque, higher power, greater refinement and lower fuel consumption - the multiple benefits of high-pressure common-rail technology.

The new Duratorq TDCi engine takes its place at the top of the Transit powertrain range. Its TDCi technology noticeably complements the driving quality of the Ford Transit while delivering lower fuel consumption that makes a powerful business case for the commercial vehicle operator.

The new Duratorq TDCi 2.0-litre engine delivers peak torque of 285 Nm (208 lb ft). Its variable nozzle turbocharger provides robust low- and mid-range torque levels that give the new Transit TDCi excellent responsiveness and in-gear acceleration. Its pulling power is calibrated especially for the needs of Transit commercial vans and chassis-cabs as well as drivers of the new Ford Tourneo minibus.

Transit models equipped with Duratorq TDCi offer generous torque for uncompromised van performance, even in passing situations and uphill climbs. Duratorq TDCi's variable-nozzle-turbo means it achieves its peak torque output as low as 1,500 rpm, a real indication of usable pulling power in a commercial vehicle.

Duratorq TDCi is available initially in front-wheel-drive, one-ton-payload Transit variants, and the Ford Tourneo minibus.

Its fuel economy is impressive. According to homologation data for 1,700-kilogram inertia weight class models, Transit TDCi fuel consumption levels are certified, in litres per 100 kilometres, at 8.8 (32 mpg) urban, 6.2 (45.5 mpg) extra urban and 7.2 (39 mpg) combined in the new European driving cycle. This gives Transit TDCi models in this class an effective range of 1,100 kilometres (680 miles) between fill-ups of its standard, 80-litre fuel tank.

But perhaps the most noticeable difference of the TDCi-powered Ford Transit is its remarkable refinement. The common-rail injection technology, calibrated especially for its commercial vehicle use, eliminates the noise and "clatter" that have become stereotypical of the diesel engine and the bane of the commercial vehicle operator.

The quiet and refined Duratorq TDCi also extends the appeal of the new Ford Tourneo 8- and 9-seat people mover, as either an executive taxi or personal use vehicle.

Ford Ranger

The Ford Ranger pick-up has been given a host of new features and range enhancements to extend its appeal and versatility. These include a fresh new front-end design, enhanced driving dynamics and a new, pillarless four-door Super Cab, which provides class-leading ease of access, both for passengers and goods.

Ford designers have enhanced Ranger's tough, purposeful appearance with a significant re-design to the front of the vehicle. Ranger now looks bolder and more muscular than ever, with a completely new bonnet, grille, bumper and headlamps. Design cues provide a visual link to the chunky Ford F-Series, the best-selling pick-up in the United States.

A higher bonnet line gives Ranger a more aggressive profile and stance. The distinctive new chrome grille gives the new Ranger a closer family likeness to the successful American Ranger and F-Series pick-ups, while the XLT model also benefits from a tough new chrome bumper.

The Ranger's new look not only accentuates the vehicle's inherent ruggedness and durability, but also enhances its style. This is clearly a vehicle that is equally suited to both work and leisure. Whatever the task, the new Ranger will get the job done - and turn heads in the process.

Available on the Ford Ranger 4x4, the innovative four-door Super Cab features reverse-hinged, counter-opening rear doors, that eliminate the 'B' pillar between the front and rear doors. This results in class-leading ease of access to and from the rear of the cab, either for passengers or, with the rear seats folded up, for storage of tools and goods. As well as providing good levels of passenger comfort, the rear of the cab can easily be used for keeping valuable items under lock and key, rather than on the load bed. At the same time, when the Super Cab is specified, customers benefit from more storage space in the load bed - an increase of 14.5 per cent in storage length - than is the case with the conventional four-door double cab.