Infiniti today unveiled its dramatic new Infiniti LE Concept, a near-production version of the performance luxury brand’s first zero emission luxury sedan. Making its world debut during a press conference at the 2012 New York International Auto Show at New York’s Javits Center, the Infiniti LE Concept combines an advanced electric vehicle drivetrain and wireless charging system with signature Infiniti luxury style and Inspired Performance. A production version of the LE Concept is expected to reach Infiniti showrooms in near-similar form within the next two years.

“Infiniti is about a unique fusion of performance and hospitality, and a distinct vision that challenges convention. Part of that vision, part of our challenger mindset, is a belief that the future of luxury is sustainable luxury,” said Carlos Ghosn, president and chief executive officer, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. “No other luxury brand has the corporate EV experience, the advanced battery technology, or the sustainable product credibility to claim a leadership position in zero emission luxury. No one except Infiniti.”

Among the key features and innovations of the Infiniti LE Concept are:

• Luxury sedan style, combining signature Infiniti design cues with EV aerodynamic efficiency
• Exceptional acceleration and re-acceleration, providing a new level of luxury driving experience
• Leading-edge compact Lithium-ion battery technology
• Smart hospitality, featuring a quiet, luxurious Infiniti interior and next-gen Infiniti Connection, Infiniti Personal Assistant and EV connected services
• Innovative, intuitive home-based Wireless Charging System with Intelligent Park Assist

About the Infiniti LE Concept
From inception, the LE Concept has been designed as a pure Infiniti, rather than as an electric vehicle with luxury appointments. It starts with an advanced luxury styled sedan body, not a converted hatchback – its bold exterior defined by its underlying high performance. The LE Concept’s dramatic exterior blends distinctive Infiniti design cues, such as its double-arch grille and crescent-cut rear-pillar, with EV aerodynamic efficiency to create a sleek, emotional silhouette. The large front grille features a solid finisher and a charge port hidden under the illuminated center Infiniti emblem.

The Infiniti LE Concept’s compact EV platform maximizes interior space by placing the batteries under the passenger compartment floor. This positioning helps provide a low vehicle center of gravity for enhanced handling and maximizes trunk room, without compromising front or rear seat passenger legroom or comfort. Beyond its advanced packaging, the real beauty of the interior is its “smart hospitality” – combining a luxurious Infiniti environment with next-generation instrumentation, driver interface and connectivity.

Infiniti-EV meters combine modern digital display and timeless analog gauges, creating an atmosphere of both exclusivity and futuristic design. The center cluster features an innovative connected twin display powered by an Intel Atom™ processor. The elegant, bolstered seat and door trim design also comes from traditional roots, inspired by the “Eriashi” (collar) of a Japanese kimono. The seats are covered in a suede-and-mesh fabric with violet accents, and semi-aniline leather sides.

Targeting “impressive city and highway EV acceleration,” the engineering team behind the LE Concept’s e-powertrain sought a silent, smooth response for both accelerating from a start and re-accelerating, such as merging onto freeways or changing lanes. Torque of 240 lb-ft is instantly available immediately at all times. The Infiniti LE Concept’s battery system is a proven laminated 24 kWh lithium-ion (Li-ion) design with a ChaDeMo DC50kW quick charger.

“A luxury car for a new generation of sustainable luxury buyers must not compromise on performance. Buyers want ‘green,’ but won’t settle for any aspect of the driving experience being less than that of their current luxury vehicles,” said Ghosn.

The Infiniti LE Concept’s connectivity to the outside world includes the next generation of Infiniti Connection features, such as Infiniti Personal Assistant 24-hour concierge service, navigation, and POI search.

In terms of charging, the Infiniti LE Concept is equipped to utilize an integrated charging port, a DC Fast Charge option and an advanced Wireless Charging System, which is expected to be the first home-based wireless charging system if adapted for the production version.

The system’s non-contact charging is via inductive energy flow, with a coil safely encased on the garage floor. The high-frequency AC-3.3 kW charging, controlled by the twin display or smartphone, is safe for children and pets and can be installed easily in a home garage.

In addition, taking inspired technology a step beyond, the Infiniti LE Concept features an Intelligent Park Assist with Around View™ Monitor to easily align the vehicle in the proper position over the wireless charging coil. The system uses e-steering, with full forward and backward capability, along with a 360-degree view of the surrounding area. It also bookmarks the parking place in GPS so that once the vehicle enters the garage, for example, the navigation system will automatically switch to Around View™ Monitor and the system is ready to park the car.

“A concept today, but a reality soon, the Infiniti LE Concept and its wireless charging system means that on top of no longer having to pump gas, you will no longer have to connect charging cables,” concluded Ghosn. “In a rapidly changing world, Infiniti is well ahead of the game.”

Taking Passion for Performance to New Heights — Dodge Enters Global RallyCross With All-new Dodge Dart and Travis Pastrana

Dodge and SRT Motorsports Announce Global RallyCross Championship Entry With Dodge Dart Piloted by Four-time Rally America Champion Travis Pastrana

March 26, 2012 , Auburn Hills, Mich. – Dodge and SRT Motorsports announced today an all-new 2013 Dodge Dart rally car piloted by four-time Rally America Champion and 17-time X Games Gold Medalist Travis Pastrana will compete in the 2012 Global RallyCross Championship (GRC) Series.

“At Dodge, racing is an integral part of our heritage and embodies our competitive spirit, so we’re very excited to announce the next chapter in racing for Dodge with our all-new Dodge Dart,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO – Dodge Brand. “The new Dart Global RallyCross Championship car with 600 horsepower and driver Travis Pastrana takes our passion for performance to all new heights.”

Pastrana, 28, is a four-time Rally America champion and owner of multiple supercross and motorcross championships. He also owns Nitro Circus, an empire that includes a television show, live tours and 3D feature film project. Pastrana is one of the most searched athletes in the world (6 million Google searches in 2010) and he has more than 3.5 million Facebook followers.

“When I first heard about GRC, I was really interested, and after watching some of the rounds last year and then actually competing at X Games I was hooked!” said Pastrana. “Now to be able to partner with Dodge to field my own program this year is a dream come true. The new Dodge Dart offers the perfect platform for rally cross, and I look forward to putting it on the podium all season long!”

Ralph Gilles, President and CEO – Street and Racing Technology Brand and Motorsports, Chrysler Group LLC, said that having Pastrana piloting a Dodge Dart and competing in GRC is a natural fit.

“Travis is a living example of what action sports activities are all about, so he fits in perfectly with the youthfulness and passion for performance of the Dodge brand and the SRT Motorsports team,” said Gilles. “He’s proven that he can handle just about anything with wheels, so it’s going to be great to watch him pilot our new Dodge Dart in Global RallyCross.”

The Dart rally car is custom built specifically for Global RallyCross racing, but shares a few traits with the production Dodge Dart. Both vehicles have exceptional aerodynamics, are agile and fun to drive and will add a little excitement to their segments. Powered by a purpose-built, 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder, 16-valve turbo-charged 600-horsepower engine mated to a Sedav 4-wheel drive gear box that puts out more than 550 lb.-ft. of torque, the Dart rally car is ready to go.

The 2013 production Dodge Dart features three state-of-the-art powertrains that produce up to 184 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque and a sporty, fun-to-drive experience. The Dart features an athletic, sporty exterior, a world-class interior with high-quality materials, state-of-the art technology and enough exterior and interior color and material choices to fit any customer.

David Bailey, Senior Engineering Manager for SRT Motorsports, knows the new Dodge Dart rally car is equipped to handle the intense racing conditions.

“The sport is extremely exciting and the on-track action can be brutal on the drivers and the cars,” said Bailey. “The cars are jumping higher than ever and landing safely. The Dart rally car is lightweight with a very powerful motor. The zero to 60 mile-per-hour times are incredible, as low as 1.9 seconds, so with Travis behind the wheel, we can’t wait for the season opener.”

Global RallyCross is a spin-off of the X Games rally races. It combines the skill of rally racing with the excitement of X Games. The revolutionary motorsports series enters its second season and features high-flying extreme competition between cars that are relevant to today’s youth. The series consists of seven racing events in closed-course rally tracks and incorporates bumper-to-bumper competition among 600 horsepower all-wheel drive vehicles. There are 70-foot jumps over racing traffic, creating a “motocross with cars” action.

The series begins May 26 in Charlotte, North Carolina, and concludes Sept. 29 in Las Vegas. Also included are races at X Games scheduled for June 30-July 1 in Los Angeles. It’s one of the most anticipated stops on the schedule. The ESPN family of channels will broadcast live coverage of the entire 2012 race series.

2012 Global RallyCross Race Schedule:

• May 26 – Charlotte Motor Speedway
• June 10 – Texas Motor Speedway
• June 30 – X Games, Los Angeles
• July 1 – X Games, Los Angeles
• July 14 – New Hampshire Motor Speedway
• Sept. 1 – TBD
• Sept. 29 – Las Vegas Motor Speedway

About Dodge Dart
The new Dodge Dart hits the mark with a modern, unmistakable Dodge design which features great exterior proportions and unmistakable Dodge cues like the “racetrack” taillamps and signature front grille. The exterior not only looks good, but delivers world class aerodynamic performance and an agile, fun-to-drive experience on the road. The Dart is the first Chrysler Group vehicle built on Fiat Group architecture; it’s based off of the award-winning Alfa Romeo Giulietta.

Interior comfort and style are on target for drivers and passengers with a modern blend of precision craftsmanship, exciting bursts of color and more interior roominess than some mid-size sedans. The new Dodge Dart offers drivers thousands of ways to personalize their car with 12 exterior colors, 14 interior color and trim combinations, 3 fuel-efficient engines, 3 transmissions, 6 wheel choices and 5 trim levels. Dart customers can choose a vehicle that fits their personality without sacrificing comfort or value. The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart offers the interior room of some mid-size sedans, class-leading safety, state-of-the-art technology and unmistakable style starting at a U.S. MSRP of just $15,995 (excluding destination).

About Dodge Brand
For nearly 100 years, Dodge has defined passionate and innovative vehicles that stand apart in performance and in style. Building upon its rich heritage of muscle cars, racing technology and ingenious engineering, Dodge offers a full-line of cars, crossovers, minivans and SUVs built for top performance – from power off the line and handling in the corners, to high-quality vehicles that deliver unmatched versatility and excellent fuel efficiency. Only Dodge offers such innovative functionality combined with class-leading performance, exceptional value and distinctive design. With the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart, the all-new Dodge Charger paired with the ZF eight-speed transmission that achieves a class-leading 31 miles per gallon on the highway, the new Durango and the significantly revamped Grand Caravan – inventor of the minivan – Journey, Avenger and iconic Challenger, Dodge now has one of the youngest dealer showrooms in the United States.

About SRT Motorsports
The engineering expertise within SRT extends well beyond our street vehicles. It is a little known fact, but technical support for the Chrysler Group’s motorsports programs is provided by the astute engineers at SRT. Lessons learned on the track directly translate to improved vehicles for our customers. SRT Motorsports is expanding its racing presence this year, so follow us throughout the 2012 season for more news from pit lane.

About Travis Pastrana
Pastrana, 28, owns multiple supercross and motocross championships and four Rally America championships. He is also known for his Nitro Circus empire, which includes a TV show, live tours and a soon-to-be-released 3D feature film.

About Global RallyCross Championship
Global RallyCross Championship is the owner and organizer of the GRC racing series and manages invitations and competition for X Games rally events. The company brings the excitement of rallycross racing to hundreds of thousands of event attendees and millions of households in more than 150 countries in 2012.

• The all-new Ford Escape’s 2.0-liter EcoBoost® engine provides up to 3,500 pounds of towing capability – best in class among small turbocharged SUVs, and as much as the outgoing 3.0-liter V6 engine

• The smaller engine provides higher efficiency without sacrificing power

• With trailer sway control, the all-new Ford Escape can tow two personal watercraft on a trailer or a small boat, with no worry for the driver

DEARBORN, Mich., March 14, 2012 – Packing 237 horsepower and 250 lb.-ft. of torque, the optional 2.0-liter EcoBoost® engine in the all-new 2013 Ford Escape enables the vehicle to tow 3,500 pounds – best in class among small SUVs with turbocharged four-cylinder engines.

The 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine delivers the ultimate combination of fuel economy, performance and capability that SUV customers with active lifestyles need in today’s environment of record-high fuel prices.

The next closest competitor, the Volkswagen Tiguan, has a tow rating of just 2,200 pounds, while turbocharged versions of Kia Sportage and Acura RDX have tow ratings of 2,000 pounds and 1,500 pounds respectively.

Escape’s greater towing capability is roughly equal to two jet skis or a snowmobile and the trailer they ride on. The ability to carry greater loads will save Escape drivers both time and fuel by reducing the number of trips needed. Travel is also made safer with trailer sway control, a class-exclusive feature among small SUVs with turbocharged four-cylinder engines.

The 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine replaces the 3.0-liter V6 engine in the current Escape with no loss of performance and with fuel economy to be higher than the V6’s 19 mpg city, 25 mpg highway EPA rating.

“Smaller-displacement engines have a fundamental efficiency advantage,” said Roger Maynard, Powertrain supervisor for the 2013 Ford Escape. “These inherent efficiencies are improved with the EcoBoost technology of direct fuel injection and turbocharging.”

The all-new Escape will be available with a choice of three four-cylinder engines. In addition to the 2.0-liter EcoBoost, Escape will be offered with a 1.6-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder rated at 177 horsepower and a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder cranking out 171 horsepower. All three engines are mated to a fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmission. Escape also features EPAS – electric power-assisted steering – a fuel-saver as well.

The EcoBoost difference
EcoBoost has been a popular choice among customers since the EcoBoost V6 engine was introduced in 2009 in the Ford Taurus SHO and Lincoln MKS. Last year, Ford sold more than 127,000 EcoBoost-equipped vehicles.

Using some of the same technologies found in diesel engines, EcoBoost can improve fuel economy by as much as 20 percent over larger, conventional engines. This year, Ford is expanding its EcoBoost engine technology to not only Escape but Fusion as well.

These engines are fundamental to the Ford strategy of providing technologically advanced, high-output, smaller-displacement powertrains that deliver exceptional fuel economy and uncompromised performance for millions of drivers around the world. By next year, more than 90 percent of Ford’s North American lineup will be available with EcoBoost technology. Ford holds more than 125 patents on this engine technology.

The all-new Escape comes to dealerships later this spring. The current Escape is the best- selling sport utility vehicle in the United States.

Hyundai Motor Company, one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing automakers, has unveiled exterior teaser images of the all-new Santa Fe, which had been known by its code name DM. The all-new Santa Fe will have its world premiere at the New York International Auto Show in early April.

Hyundai will keep the name “Santa Fe” for the new vehicle, continuing the solid brand heritage of the automaker’s most representative SUV model. The all-new Santa Fe, which is entering its third generation, has reached worldwide cumulative sales of about 2.56 million units (Korea: 680,000 / overseas: 1.95 million) since its 2000 debut.

Based on Hyundai’s design philosophy, Fluidic Sculpture, the new Santa Fe adopts its own design concept called “Storm Edge,” which captures the strong and dynamic images created by nature during the formation of a storm.

The third-generation Santa Fe features sophisticated and refined lines, which are in harmony with bold and voluminous surfaces, completing a more aggressive and classic look than its predecessor.

The design adopts the hexagonal grille – a key design cue of the Hyundai family look – a two-tone voluminous bottom car body and wider front and rear bumpers, creating a futuristic and urban-style SUV image.

Dynamic side character lines give a more aerodynamic feeling, while emotional details expressed on the exterior design deliver a premium image, suggesting a new design direction for Hyundai’s next-generation SUVs.

The all-new Santa Fe, whose core product concepts are “Refinement,” “Smartness” and “Practicality, ” is expected to be a hit in the global SUV market, offering the best value to customers in every aspect, with its differentiated design, cutting-edge technologies, good fuel economy and practical use of space.

The all-new Santa Fe will arrive in Australia before the end of the year. More detailed timing is expected to crystallise over the next few months.

Magna Steyr to Unveil Three-in-One Vehicle Concept Study at Geneva Motor Show 2012

Gaydon, Warwickshire, 26th February 2012 - Land Rover will unveil a Range Rover Evoque Convertible Concept at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The Evoque Convertible Concept vehicle will explore the potential for the world’s first premium convertible SUV.

This bold concept builds on the global success of the Evoque and continues Land Rover’s tradition for creating and leading new market segments. The concept is being shown to gauge reaction and to assess the potential for what could be another white space product from the world’s leading SUV brand.

The concept has been developed by Land Rover Design Director, Gerry McGovern and his team. Commenting on the concept, McGovern said: “The Evoque lends itself beautifully to the idea of a convertible. This study is not a traditional convertible design execution – instead we have worked with the balance of the Evoque’s lines to retain its distinctive shape and create something that is unique and, we believe, highly desirable.”

The soft-top convertible concept is based on the Range Rover Evoque Coupe. It features a fully retractable premium roof system with a Roll Over Protection System [ROPS]. The concept cleverly combines capability and versatility with a drop down tailgate and a comfortable four seat package. The vehicle has been developed with Land Rover DNA at its heart, retaining key characteristics including a command driving position and all-terrain capability.

The Evoque’s dramatic rising waist line and distinctive shape has been retained and the new convertible body style has been achieved with minimal changes to weight and torsional rigidity. The hood is housed in a neat tapered finisher with the roof mechanism stowed discretely below the belt-line.

Inside, the concept is packed with Evoque’s award winning technology including Terrain Response, surround cameras, Park Assist and class leading infotainment featuring an 8-inch dual view touch screen and a sound system from British audio experts, Meridian. The Evoque Convertible Concept features unique 21-inch Titan silver wheels and is finished in a new metallic Causeway Grey paint. The interior is in Lunar and Ivory with leather seats featuring sporty perforated panels and Ivory contrast stitching.

The Range Rover Evoque has been on sale for six months and is widely recognised as an international success with strong sales performances in 170 global markets, and achieving excellent customer satisfaction and class-leading residual values. The Evoque has been launched to worldwide media acclaim and to date has been honoured with over 90 international awards.

John Edwards, Land Rover Global Brand Director said: “The Evoque Convertible Concept is a new twist to the Evoque story and explores the potential to further extend the nameplate’s appeal by giving existing customers more choice, whilst at the same time reaching out to a completely new customer base. We are excited to see the response to this concept as we assess the potential for building on the Evoque’s exceptional success so far.”

The Evoque Convertible Concept will be revealed at Geneva as a design and engineering study. There are no production plans confirmed.

• The outlet is identified via GPS.
• The driver pre-sets timing and charging amount on the touch screen or remotely via a smart phone or tablet.
• Using the mobile network, the car communicates with the grid and sets the charging scheme in order to support optimal utilisation of the grid and most favourable energy price.
• Any unintended interruption of charging process is directly reported to the driver’s mobile phone.
• The system directs the cost for each charge to the car owner’s personal utility bill.

Electric drive without compromisesThe Volvo C30 Electric has been used as a test car in the project. Equipped with an integrated 7-inch colour touch screen, it makes the smooth charging concept available at the driver’s fingertip. Five C30 Electric cars will now be used for testing and evaluating the technology during a year. ”Our basic view is that the owner of an electric vehicle shouldn’t have to sacrifice any of the properties he or she expects from a luxury car,” says Lennart Stegland, Vice President Electric Propulsion Systems, Volvo Car Corporation. “This smart technology for charging in any outlet, and paying automatically via your own electricity bill, is an excellent example of how we do everything to make the daily use easier for the customer.”The concept is developed on a generic communication platform to make the technology globally applicable. Totally in control, totally connectedThe ELVIIS technology is fully in line with Volvo Car Corporation’s development of Sensus technology, which makes the driver feel totally in control and totally connected.”Sensus is the interface that promotes intuitive communication with the car, connecting it to the driver’s digital world. We will continue to extend the offer of intelligent content that provides easy access to support, information and entertainment,” says Lennart Stegland.

Dynamic Ford Tourneo Custom Concept Makes Global Debut at 2012 Geneva Motor Show

• Ford Tourneo Custom Concept makes global debut at Geneva Motor Show to showcase a dramatic new look and preview introduction of an all-new family of one-ton Ford Transit people movers and commercial vehicles for Europe and Asia
• The dynamic and contemporary Tourneo Custom Concept adopts the same Kinetic Design language as Ford’s latest passenger cars to take a fresh approach to space, style and functionality and target a new generation of Tourneo customers
• Stylish eight-seat concept brings new energy to personal use, lifestyle and executive shuttle sectors; car-like dynamics and comfort brought together through a driver-focused cockpit and all-new luxurious interior design
• Multi-adjustable and removable rear seating can be adapted for business or leisure pursuits while innovative technologies include SYNC voice-activated, in-car connectivity system with Emergency Assistance
• Concept features state-of-the-art driver assist systems, and latest Ford low-CO2 ECOnetic Technologies help target best-in-class fuel economy

COLOGNE, Germany, Feb. 22, 2012 – The dynamic new Ford Tourneo Custom Concept will make its global debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March, bringing a new level of energy and style to the European personal use vehicle segment.

Previewing the introduction of a completely new range of people movers, with commercial vehicles to follow, the Tourneo Custom Concept showcases a dramatic new look that will appeal to customers seeking style, functionality and space.

“One look at the Tourneo Custom Concept is enough to tell you that it will inject an exciting new spirit into the personal use segment,” said Stephen Odell, chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe.  “Our forthcoming new range gives us the opportunity to appeal to new customers with a fresh new direction, and we have seized that opportunity with both hands.

“We are excited to present this significant new concept in Geneva. The Tourneo Custom’s car-like qualities will be appreciated by a broad range of business and leisure customers, and this is a fitting venue to present the vehicle for the first time.”

The Tourneo Custom Concept will preview of a host of exciting new features, which give the vehicle strong car-like appeal.

These include an all-new interior design with driver-focused cockpit, and a luxurious, fully trimmed cabin which has the ambience and high-quality materials of a modern multi-seat saloon car.

The Concept also showcases a number of smart innovations including multi-adjustable and removable rear seating, advanced SYNC voice-activated, in-car connectivity system with Emergency Assistance feature, and the latest Ford low-CO2 ECOnetic Technologies.

Dramatic new design language
The Tourneo Custom Concept communicates very clearly a dramatic new design direction for Ford’s commercial vehicle range, which will be introduced later in 2012.

With its advanced, streamlined appearance, the concept vehicle embodies the same dynamic character as Ford’s Kinetic Design passenger cars – generating the strong sense of movement, even when the vehicle is standing still.

“We set out to create a design with clean, futuristic lines and with a real sense of occasion,” explained Paul Campbell, chief designer, Ford of Europe.

“With its sportier stance, bold rising shoulder line and flush glazing, the Tourneo Custom Concept brings something fresh and exciting to this class of people mover.

“By applying the latest Kinetic Design principles, the design has a completely new style and drama,” he added.

Signature Kinetic Design features helps give the Tourneo Custom Concept its unique character, including the bold trapezoidal grille, strong and muscular shoulder line, prominent wheel lips and window lines with the distinctive kick at the rear.

The concept is further enhanced by a number of stylish details from the chrome grille surround and striking LED lighting on the front-end, to the dynamic looks of the 18-inch alloy wheels.

Luxurious car-like interior
Bringing a whole new level of car-like style and sophistication to the personal use segment, the Tourneo Custom Concept features an all-new interior design.

“We wanted to give the driver, and the rear seat passengers, an interior which has the same standards of design and quality they would experience in a modern multi-seat saloon car, but with ample space for people and luggage” explained Campbell.

“From its modern, driver-focused cockpit, to the luxurious rear cabin finished in leather, the Tourneo Custom Concept shows that interiors in this class can be both functional and attractive.”

The stylish, sculpted instrument panel is orientated around the driver, and features technologies which are closely-related to those in Ford’s car range. Like the exterior, the interior follows the same Kinetic Design approach as the latest passenger cars, such as in the taut wing-like section of the upper instrument panel.

Occupants in the rear are surrounded by space and luxury, with a fully-trimmed cabin which incorporates bold Kinetic Design detailing on the side panels which are linked to the graphical themes from the front.

The rear seats themselves are a completely new design, which can be easily folded into multiple configurations, or removed completely.  This enables the interior to be easily tailored to suit business or leisure pursuits.

In the concept vehicle, the luxurious and spacious feel of the interior is further enhanced by an exclusive two-tone colour scheme, featuring hand-stitched leather seats with attractive cloth inserts.

Smart New Features
The Tourneo Custom Concept highlights that customers in the personal use market can expect the same high levels of technology which are enjoyed by Ford car drivers.

Among the smart, innovative features included on the concept are:

• ECOnetic Technologies – Ford’s advanced low-CO2 features including Auto-Start-Stop and Smart Regenerative Charging
• SYNC voice-activated, in-car connectivity system – enables mobile phones and music players to be connected to the vehicle, and controlled using voice control
• Emergency Assistance – enabled by SYNC, this new feature is designed to assist occupants to contact the Emergency Services in the event of an accident, providing vehicle location information
• Advanced restraint system – including driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags
• Rear-view camera – integrated into the rear view mirror
• Lane Departure Warning and Driver Alert – latest driver assistance features to alert the driver if the system detects the vehicle is inadvertently drifting out of the lane, or the driver is becoming tired behind the wheel

To ensure that this enhanced specification is complemented by outstanding performance and fuel economy, the concept is powered by a further improved 155 PS version of Ford’s 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine family.

The Tourneo Custom Concept is based on a new Ford global platform which has been engineered to deliver car-like dynamics, including agile, responsive handling, enhanced ride comfort and reduced noise-levels.

“Customers in the personal use market are demanding much higher levels of technology, performance and handling,” said Barry Gale, chief engineer, Ford of Europe.  “This concept shows that we are taking those demands very seriously, and that customers can expect a rewarding and car-like driving experience.”

New Generation of Ford Commercial Vehicles
The debut of the Tourneo Custom Concept has added significance in heralding the arrival of a completely new generation of Ford commercial vehicles. The full range of models will be revealed during 2012.

Kicking off this major series of introductions, the Tourneo Custom Concept itself highlights a new family of Ford people movers and one-tonne vans which will be launched in Europe and other global markets, but will not be sold in North America.

“The imminent arrival of an all-new people mover and van is an exciting moment for us,” said Gale.  “The new model gives us plenty to talk about, and we look forward to sharing more details very soon.”

This new range will be powered by enhanced versions of the new 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine, which was initially introduced in 2011; with Auto-Stop-Start technology fitted as standard, Ford is targeting best-in-class fuel economy.

Three power ratings will be available: 100 PS, 125 PS and 155 PS.  All versions are paired with a six-speed manual transmission and feature front-wheel drive.

The model range will include a wide choice of body styles and two wheelbases (SWB and LWB) allowing for extra luggage or goods capability where required.

Ford will be presenting larger and higher payload Transits later in 2012.  These models will be sold globally, including North America, and will also feature rear-wheel-drive.

“2012 is a tremendously significant year for Ford as we begin the roll-out of a completely new range of commercial vehicles,” said Odell.  “Our market-leading commercials have established a tremendous reputation for value and durability, and our new range is destined to raise this to a new level.”

• 19.02.2012

• Compact lifestyle van for business and leisure
• First concept of its kind in the premium segment
• World premiere at the Geneva International Motor Show 2012

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – February 18, 2012… Stand-out-from-the-crowd style can also be amazingly practical – and practicality can be surprisingly attractive. The MINI Clubvan Concept paves the way for an innovative vehicle concept without parallel in the premium small car segment. The MINI Clubman-based concept car, scheduled for its world premiere at the Geneva International Motor Show 2012, combines the driving fun for which MINI is renowned with increased load-carrying capability. The MINI experience will therefore find its way into new areas of life, the brand’s distinctive character gaining new popularity among target groups not previously on the MINI radar.

The closed-off load area behind the front seats and the opaque rear side windows of the new concept set it apart most strikingly from the MINI Clubman, the platform used as its base. The MINI Clubvan Concept uses its broader skill-set to open up new usage possibilities – both business and leisure. Where a business’s customers, product range or operating environment demand a particular style for its vehicles, this premium model can make the perfect delivery solution.

For example, a car in the mould of the MINI Clubvan Concept would fit excellently into the fleet of a fashion designer, art gallery owner or catering service. And its abilities as an all-rounder also tick the right boxes for a photographer with a stack of camera, tripod and lighting equipment to ferry around during the week – and bulky sports and leisure gear to pile on board at the weekend. The MINI Clubvan Concept pulls off the trick of blending enhanced practicality and a well-judged lifestyle focus with natural ease. This ability is based on the impressive adaptability that goes to the heart of the MINI brand’s heritage.

Calls for maximizing the load capacity of the classic Mini began as early as 1960, just a year after the car’s birth; and they were soon heeded. With its 10-centimeter-longer wheelbase (3.94 inches), separate load compartment and split rear doors, the Morris Mini Van was perfectly equipped for commercial use. It also provided the basis for the fully glazed, four-seat Morris Mini Traveller, one of the precursors of today’s successful MINI Clubman. And so, more than 50 years on, the MINI Clubvan Concept sees history repeating itself – albeit in a slightly different order.

Two seats, five doors, endless usage potential.

Limiting the car to two seats creates the capacity its owners will need on a day-to-day basis, as well as opening up a whole new world of customization potential. The load compartment of the MINI Clubvan Concept embodies the car’s fresh and rigorous interpretation of the principle used in the classic Mini – of providing the maximum amount of interior space on the smallest possible footprint. The load area reaches from the split rear doors right up to the partition grille behind the two seats. The totally level floor makes full use of the interior’s depth, and that allows the concept car’s load capacity to exceed the maximum achieved by the MINI Clubman.

Six attachment loops recessed into the load compartment floor use elasticized straps to hold items of varying lengths, heights and widths in place – without the risk of them sliding around. The partition grille, which is fixed securely to the car body, ensures that items stowed in the load compartment are kept safely away from the front seats. The lower section of the partition is made from solid aluminum, while the upper section consists of a silver-colored stainless steel honeycomb grating. The side walls and floor of the load compartment are trimmed in high-quality anthracite-colored cloth. The anthracite roof liner, meanwhile, extends along the full length of the interior. This uniform color scheme emphasizes the pure-bred, practicality-oriented character of the MINI Clubvan Concept.

Like the MINI Clubman, the MINI Clubvan Concept is a five-door car with a twist. Two front doors for the driver and front passenger, two side-hinged doors at the rear and the rear-hinged Clubdoor on the right-hand side create comfortable access to the interior. The Clubdoor gives owners the option of loading or unloading smaller items from the side of the car as well as the rear.

The generous levels of space on board the concept car can be exploited in a variety of ways. Commercial users will be particularly pleased to discover the scope for configuring the load compartment to personal requirements. For example, tools and goods can be stored neatly and securely in made-to-measure drawers or shelving units. 12-volt plug sockets in the rear area of the load compartment provide additional practicality.

Exterior design: shields from prying eyes, cuts a distinctive figure.

Impressive practicality and the brand’s time-honored style lend the MINI Clubvan Concept its unmistakable character. Sharing the exterior dimensions of the MINI Clubman and boasting cleverly increased storage capacity, the concept car is the first premium model in the small-car-based van segment. The exterior appearance of the MINI Clubvan Concept marks it out immediately as a MINI – and therefore as a premium product. The function-led design modifications have no impact on the car’s proportions and hallmark MINI design language, but they do give customers the opportunity to combine the demands of commercial use with an appreciation of individual style.

The MINI Clubvan Concept comes with British Racing Green exterior paintwork, which extends to the roof, C-pillars and exterior mirror caps. As is usual for vehicles charged with transportation tasks, the rear side windows of the MINI Clubvan Concept are opaque. Polycarbonate sections – their outer surfaces painted in the car’s body color – and heavily tinted glass for the rear doors make it difficult to see into the load compartment.

The unbroken paintwork along the car’s flanks offers extensive scope for individualization, which the MINI Clubvan Concept highlights to eye-catching effect. The sealed side windows bear the logo of a sign design company based in the MINI’s native Great Britain. The hand-applied graphics lend the vehicle a personal look. Indeed, the ultra-versatile MINI carries both its cargo and the company’s promotional message with a uniquely stylish verve. The MINI Clubvan Concept presented in Geneva lends this form of customization a piquant authenticity – on two fronts. The British company that has literally left its stamp on the MINI Clubvan Concept creates similar vehicle graphics for its customers. And the MINI Clubvan Concept showcases how these might look when applied to a MINI van.

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