Ford’s Johannesburg International Motor Show stand doesn’t feature that many new models, but the company has used the show to announce that the Fusion will be introduced locally, the commercial vehicle line-up will expand with the new full-size Transit and AppLink will be introduced locally.
Fusion
Ford SA is yet to confirm what the local line-up will be made up of, but it can confirm that it will benefit from EcoBoost technology as part of a range of derivatives.
Ford’s ECOnetic Technologies and Ford’s PowerShift double wet-clutch transmission system are also available on the new Fusion internationally. Other innovations include smart regenerative charging, the Ford eco mode driver information system and an active grille shutter system. This electronically controlled device regulates the airflow through the radiator and engine compartment, reducing aerodynamic drag and benefitting engine-heating characteristics to improve fuel economy and warm-up performance, particularly in cold climates.
“The Fusion will take up its position as the flagship model in the company’s portfolio when introduced in South Africa in the future,” says Jeff Nemeth President and CEO, Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa.
Transit
Ford’s new full-size Transit van will be launched in South Africa in the first-half of 2014.
“The Transit Custom, launched earlier this year in South Africa, has been very well received by the public who can now look forward to the continued expansion of our commercial vehicle line-up,” says Nemeth.
Evos concept
The Evos was designed to show Ford’s new global design-language features inside and out, as well as to give showgoers a glimpse of future Ford design technologies.
It was conceived as a fastback, and its striking lines and four-door, four-seat layout combines a high level of practicality, according to Ford. The gullwing doors – front and rear – provide easy access to the cabin, and will make viewing the interior an easy and pleasant experience at the show.
The Evos is said to connect life from home and office to the car, offering all kinds of new possibilities for personalisation. New technologies have been added to improve driver wellness and health at the wheel, such as a heart-rate-monitoring seat and allergy-free interiors.
“The role of the Ford Evos Concept is to give a clear message about where Ford is heading. Its modern design gives an indication of Ford’s intent to continue to offer a range of smart technologies, already evidenced in South Africa with the award winning EcoBoost engines and SYNC system,” said Ford SA marketing manager, Gavin Golightly.
AppLink
AppLink allows drivers hands-free control of select applications (apps) on their smartphones, through the Ford SYNC voice-activated connectivity system. Ford will introduce AppLink on most SYNC-equipped vehicles next year.
Other
Also on display are the current Ford models and a concept kit showcased on the Built Ford Tough Ford Ranger. The Black Edition model, created especially for the occasion features black alloy wheels as well as unique wheel arch mouldings, grille, nudge and roll bars all in black.
“The Black Edition Ranger was created especially for the Johannesburg International Motor Show however we plan to make it available XL, XLS and XLT Hi Rider models in future,” he adds.