Ford Focus Race Car Concept – Click above for high-res image gallery
Ford likes to tout the 2012 Focus' global credentials, because this is the first time the compact sedan and hatchback will be offered with minimal changes in nearly every market the Blue Oval operates. Interestingly, Ford has taken a similar approach with the racing version of the Focus, which it says is designed to compete in all kinds of
Power, predictably, will come from a tuned version of the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine that we'll see in the upcoming Focus ST. You'll find AST performance coil-over adjustable dampers at each corner holding up anthracite 18-inch wheels and Hoosier race tires. Other suspension bits include sway bars from Ford Racing with adjustable end links and front brakes with 320-millimeter two-piece rotors and race pads.
Inside, a full FIA-certified roll cage is included, along with Recaro seats with six-point racing harnesses and a full electronics package for keeping track of essential data. Interestingly, Ford says it teamed up with a number of professional private racing teams to develop its Focus Race package, which means it should be highly adaptable to multiple series and formats.
This car's first appearance in competition will be at the 2011 British Touring Car Championship, but it will also circle tracks in China and at the 24-hour race at Nürburgring in Germany. Even more importantly, Ford says the upcoming 2012 Focus ST will benefit from the experience gained by racing its track-developed sibling.
In addition to the Focus Race Car Concept, also hitting the LA Auto Show floor will be three Focus models tuned with various aftermarket products. One will come from Ford's own Vehicle Personalization group while the others will be presented by FSWerks and 3dCarbon, respectively.
Hit the jump for all the details in the complete press releases.
Update: Ford tells us the Focus is its corporate touring car racer while all rally duties will be handed off to the Fiesta.
[Source: Ford]
New Focus Race Car Concept: L.A. Auto Show debut for Ford's next global touring race car
* Focus race car concept by Ford Racing makes its global debut at the 2010 Los Angeles International Auto Show
* Powered by a 2.0-liter Ford EcoBoost™ turbo engine, the Focus race car concept is built to compete in global road and touring car racing
* All-new Focus, Ford's latest offering, will be raced by touring car teams globally, building on Ford's history in engineering race-ready platforms. First race appearance for the car is anticipated to be in the 2011 British Touring Car Championship
* Focus race car concept hints at future potential as Ford coordinates with and provides technical support to private race teams around the world to develop one common race car capable of winning major touring car categories
LOS ANGELES, Nov. 17, 2010 – Ford Motor Company is putting racing on the map at the
2010 Los Angeles International Auto Show with the debut of the Focus race car concept, demonstrating future potential for the all-new 2012 Ford Focus to compete in road and touring car championships with teams around the world.
The Focus race car concept is a dramatic example of Ford's global approach to product development and builds on the company's comprehensive approach to leveraging its global product platforms.
This race car concept, powered by the sophisticated 2.0-liter Ford EcoBoost I-4 engine, is the first to benefit from a collaborative effort between Ford and race teams around the world that have already built and raced successful Focus race cars. The Focus race car concept has been based around rules governing circuit racing in the United States and beyond.
"This teamwork has resulted in a global racing platform using a common Focus body and a safety cage built to FIA regulations – a competitive platform that can be tailored for regional competition, based on different rules," said Jost Capito, director of Global Performance Vehicles and Motorsport Business Development. "By leveraging our collective experience and Ford technology worldwide, this approach parallels our global dedication to the Focus production car and specifically its exciting performance derivative, the new Focus ST, to deliver a competitive race car that can be campaigned around the world."
Using the all-new Focus as its base, the Focus race car concept features AST performance coil-over adjustable dampers, Ford Racing upgraded sway bars with adjustable end links and front brakes with 320-millimeter two-piece rotors and race pads. The Anthracite 18-inch wheels and Hoosier race tires put the finishing touches on the exterior.
In addition to the FIA Super 2000 regulations roll cage, interior components include a Recaro® racing seat, AIM MXL Pista data system and AIM SmartyCam. Ford Racing fire suppression system and Ford Racing six-point safety harness round out the modifications that bring the car from street-spec to race-ready.
"There has been tremendous interest from the racing world in the new Focus, and it's the perfect fit for a global touring car," said Capito. "Even more, by working with professional private race teams, we're ensuring Focus has the support it needs to compete and win around the world."
Benefits will stretch beyond the track
Professional private race teams are partnering with Ford to develop common technical specifications for the race car, which will conform to FIA Super 2000 regulations with potential to adopt to other regulations.
The teams are being brought together by Ford to harness their strengths and define roles for the development of the race car. Ford will also support the race teams by providing data, advanced engineering tools, state-of-the-art testing facilities and production parts, resulting in teams racing more competitive cars that are developed with greater efficiency.
"Ford's commitment to using motorsports to influence high-performance vehicles will be highly evident, as the development of the Focus touring car will also provide valuable input as we develop the upcoming Focus ST production car," said Capito. "It's very similar to how the Mustang team was able to apply learnings from the Ford Racing Boss 302R to the 2012 Mustang Boss 302."
The first race appearance for the Focus is targeted for the 2011 British Touring Car Championship. Globally, the race car has the potential to run in many national and regional championships, such as the China Touring Car Championship and 24-hour endurance races like the classic Nürburgring in Germany.
New global Focus has it all
The new Focus is the result of a global product development program bringing together Ford's best engineers and technology from around the world. The new Focus will be sold in 122 markets worldwide and manufactured in Ford plants in Asia, Europe and North America.
All Focus models sold in North America will be powered by Ford's most advanced naturally aspirated engine ever: a new, 2.0-liter gasoline engine equipped with direct injection and twin independent variable camshaft timing – two important fuel-saving technologies. A six-speed PowerShift automatic transmission will be offered.
A Focus ST version also will be available, boasting exhilarating performance and an addictive sound. Ford's first global high-performance model, scheduled for 2012 launch and developed by Ford's global performance vehicles team, will deliver a 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4 engine, lowered chassis, high-performance brakes and unique suspension tuning. The standard transmission for Focus ST is a six-speed manual, optimized with sporting ratios matched to the performance characteristics of the engine.
Ford's North American engineering team is targeting fuel economy of 40 mpg highway for the most efficient Focus model, equipped with an automatic transmission. The new Focus will also offer North American consumers a full suite of Ford technology – including Ford SYNC®, MyFord Touch™, in-car Wi-Fi capability, active park assist and rear view camera.
With all-new style enticing enthusiasts, Ford Focus tuner cars strut their stuff at L.A. Auto Show
* New 2012 Ford Focus will show it offers more than just performance when several cars on display at the 2010 Los Angeles International Auto Show bring the standout Focus design to life with aftermarket accessories
* A Focus from Ford Vehicle Personalization shows off what can be done when customers add Ford Vehicle Personalization to the mix. The car features accessories and Caribbean Blue accents throughout
* FSWerks and 3dCarbon also will use custom touches and performance upgrades to show off the limitless possibilities for the new Focus
Los angeles, Nov. 17, 2010 – The new 2012 Ford Focus has already impressed followers, and when several cars tuned by Ford Vehicle Personalization and other aftermarket companies hit the display space at the Los Angeles International Auto Show, people's imaginations are sure to run wild with the possibilities.
The all-new Focus offers customers plenty of choices at production, including four trim series – S, SE, SEL and for the first time, Titanium. Owners can even choose from 11 unique wheel styles. The Titanium model has 17-inch sport aluminum wheels, and 18-inch wheels with low-profile summer performance tires also are available.
Two handling packages also deliver more options for customers who want to tailor the vehicle to fit their needs, including an SE Sport Package and a Handling Package for the Titanium series. These production options lead the way for aftermarket customization that lets owners put their creative touch on the car.
"This is the ideal place to show off these cars because of the prevalent car culture in Southern California," said KC Dallia, Focus brand manager. "The 2012 Focus has an all-new design that will grab people's attention, and it has a personality that enthusiasts will embrace."
That personality will help transition to the aftermarket realm, where owners can put their own stamp of pride on the vehicle.
"These cars deliver great ideas for the variety of approaches you can take with the new Focus," said Melvin Betancourt, Ford design manager. "It's the perfect base to start from for aftermarket customization, whether you're looking to take this Focus racing or you just want to make a statement about your personality."
2012 Ford Focus by Ford Vehicle Personalization
A Focus developed by Ford Vehicle Personalization shows just what can be done when customers add Ford Custom Accessories into the mix. Working from a Focus covered in white tri-coat paint with hints of Caribbean Blue, the car features a new white body kit with an expressive concept graphic on the side panels.
Caribbean Blue accents are applied throughout the car, including the belt moldings, headlamps, mirrors, wheels and fog lamp bezels. Liquid silver paint also was applied to the roof spoiler, mirrors, headlamps and fog lamps, showing off extra attention to detail.
"We created a theme of an all-white vehicle with bursts of Caribbean Blue accents running throughout, which lends itself to many of the current trends seen in fashion," said Mark Conforzi, chief designer, Ford Vehicle Personalization. "White with dimension is a hot trend in Europe, and we found ways to incorporate that into our Focus in a manner that perfectly fits the vehicle."
The interior uses a black and white theme featuring all-leather seats with accent stitching. The steering wheel also showcases white and black leather, and the center stack features a soft-touch white paint. Unique etched scuff plates and aqua accent lighting round out the interior.
2012 Ford Focus by FSWerks
For FSWerks, the new Focus provides the perfect platform to add its own touch. The modifications start with 19-inch DPE R16 wheels matched with Continental ExtremeContact DW tires and a 3dCarbon roof wing.
From there, performance cues include an FSWerks stainless steel performance exhaust that provides maximum flow and horsepower. An FSWerks cold air intake, engine cover and front stress bar further set this car apart. An H&R Springs coil-over kit lowers the Focus 3 inches, offering superior ride quality and an aggressive stance.
"What I find great about the new Focus is that it's a sporty, compact Ford with the global design our customers want," said Randy Robles, FSWerks vice president. "The previous Focus versions have been huge for us, so we're excited to continue that tradition."
2012 Ford Focus by 3dCarbon
The Focus by 3dCarbon is sure to grab the attention of visitors to the Ford stand with its sinister looks complemented by a unique 3M matte finish VentureShield wrap film, which was installed by California C.A.R.S. Smoked-out windows with 3M window film add to the tough but elegant look of this vehicle. The wrap film can easily be installed and uninstalled to update the look of the car.
Except for the glossy black hood, the rest of the black body panels have a film foil wrap with a satin appearance. The 20-inch Series KM650-KMC wheels also feature the glossy black finish, highlighted with a red pinstripe. This Focus rides on Falken tires – FK452 – the true definition of an ultra-high-performance tire.
This Focus also sports a 3dCarbon roof wing that delivers enhanced looks and additional aerodynamic benefits. An H&R Springs sport spring delivers better handling and ride comfort, while an FSWerks cat-back exhaust offers style and functionality.
"This car builds on the already impressive styling of the new Focus with the unique touches we used, like the foil wrap and red accents," said Ernie Bunnell, 3dCarbon vice president of sales and marketing. "The design of the Focus fits where the market is right now and the global appeal of this car is sure to be a hit with our customers."
* Focus race car concept by Ford Racing makes its global debut at the 2010 Los Angeles International Auto Show
* Powered by a 2.0-liter Ford EcoBoost™ turbo engine, the Focus race car concept is built to compete in global road and touring car racing
* All-new Focus, Ford's latest offering, will be raced by touring car teams globally, building on Ford's history in engineering race-ready platforms. First race appearance for the car is anticipated to be in the 2011 British Touring Car Championship
* Focus race car concept hints at future potential as Ford coordinates with and provides technical support to private race teams around the world to develop one common race car capable of winning major touring car categories
LOS ANGELES, Nov. 17, 2010 – Ford Motor Company is putting racing on the map at the
2010 Los Angeles International Auto Show with the debut of the Focus race car concept, demonstrating future potential for the all-new 2012 Ford Focus to compete in road and touring car championships with teams around the world.
The Focus race car concept is a dramatic example of Ford's global approach to product development and builds on the company's comprehensive approach to leveraging its global product platforms.
This race car concept, powered by the sophisticated 2.0-liter Ford EcoBoost I-4 engine, is the first to benefit from a collaborative effort between Ford and race teams around the world that have already built and raced successful Focus race cars. The Focus race car concept has been based around rules governing circuit racing in the United States and beyond.
"This teamwork has resulted in a global racing platform using a common Focus body and a safety cage built to FIA regulations – a competitive platform that can be tailored for regional competition, based on different rules," said Jost Capito, director of Global Performance Vehicles and Motorsport Business Development. "By leveraging our collective experience and Ford technology worldwide, this approach parallels our global dedication to the Focus production car and specifically its exciting performance derivative, the new Focus ST, to deliver a competitive race car that can be campaigned around the world."
Using the all-new Focus as its base, the Focus race car concept features AST performance coil-over adjustable dampers, Ford Racing upgraded sway bars with adjustable end links and front brakes with 320-millimeter two-piece rotors and race pads. The Anthracite 18-inch wheels and Hoosier race tires put the finishing touches on the exterior.
In addition to the FIA Super 2000 regulations roll cage, interior components include a Recaro® racing seat, AIM MXL Pista data system and AIM SmartyCam. Ford Racing fire suppression system and Ford Racing six-point safety harness round out the modifications that bring the car from street-spec to race-ready.
"There has been tremendous interest from the racing world in the new Focus, and it's the perfect fit for a global touring car," said Capito. "Even more, by working with professional private race teams, we're ensuring Focus has the support it needs to compete and win around the world."
Benefits will stretch beyond the track
Professional private race teams are partnering with Ford to develop common technical specifications for the race car, which will conform to FIA Super 2000 regulations with potential to adopt to other regulations.
The teams are being brought together by Ford to harness their strengths and define roles for the development of the race car. Ford will also support the race teams by providing data, advanced engineering tools, state-of-the-art testing facilities and production parts, resulting in teams racing more competitive cars that are developed with greater efficiency.
"Ford's commitment to using motorsports to influence high-performance vehicles will be highly evident, as the development of the Focus touring car will also provide valuable input as we develop the upcoming Focus ST production car," said Capito. "It's very similar to how the Mustang team was able to apply learnings from the Ford Racing Boss 302R to the 2012 Mustang Boss 302."
The first race appearance for the Focus is targeted for the 2011 British Touring Car Championship. Globally, the race car has the potential to run in many national and regional championships, such as the China Touring Car Championship and 24-hour endurance races like the classic Nürburgring in Germany.
New global Focus has it all
The new Focus is the result of a global product development program bringing together Ford's best engineers and technology from around the world. The new Focus will be sold in 122 markets worldwide and manufactured in Ford plants in Asia, Europe and North America.
All Focus models sold in North America will be powered by Ford's most advanced naturally aspirated engine ever: a new, 2.0-liter gasoline engine equipped with direct injection and twin independent variable camshaft timing – two important fuel-saving technologies. A six-speed PowerShift automatic transmission will be offered.
A Focus ST version also will be available, boasting exhilarating performance and an addictive sound. Ford's first global high-performance model, scheduled for 2012 launch and developed by Ford's global performance vehicles team, will deliver a 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4 engine, lowered chassis, high-performance brakes and unique suspension tuning. The standard transmission for Focus ST is a six-speed manual, optimized with sporting ratios matched to the performance characteristics of the engine.
Ford's North American engineering team is targeting fuel economy of 40 mpg highway for the most efficient Focus model, equipped with an automatic transmission. The new Focus will also offer North American consumers a full suite of Ford technology – including Ford SYNC®, MyFord Touch™, in-car Wi-Fi capability, active park assist and rear view camera.
With all-new style enticing enthusiasts, Ford Focus tuner cars strut their stuff at L.A. Auto Show
* New 2012 Ford Focus will show it offers more than just performance when several cars on display at the 2010 Los Angeles International Auto Show bring the standout Focus design to life with aftermarket accessories
* A Focus from Ford Vehicle Personalization shows off what can be done when customers add Ford Vehicle Personalization to the mix. The car features accessories and Caribbean Blue accents throughout
* FSWerks and 3dCarbon also will use custom touches and performance upgrades to show off the limitless possibilities for the new Focus
Los angeles, Nov. 17, 2010 – The new 2012 Ford Focus has already impressed followers, and when several cars tuned by Ford Vehicle Personalization and other aftermarket companies hit the display space at the Los Angeles International Auto Show, people's imaginations are sure to run wild with the possibilities.
The all-new Focus offers customers plenty of choices at production, including four trim series – S, SE, SEL and for the first time, Titanium. Owners can even choose from 11 unique wheel styles. The Titanium model has 17-inch sport aluminum wheels, and 18-inch wheels with low-profile summer performance tires also are available.
Two handling packages also deliver more options for customers who want to tailor the vehicle to fit their needs, including an SE Sport Package and a Handling Package for the Titanium series. These production options lead the way for aftermarket customization that lets owners put their creative touch on the car.
"This is the ideal place to show off these cars because of the prevalent car culture in Southern California," said KC Dallia, Focus brand manager. "The 2012 Focus has an all-new design that will grab people's attention, and it has a personality that enthusiasts will embrace."
That personality will help transition to the aftermarket realm, where owners can put their own stamp of pride on the vehicle.
"These cars deliver great ideas for the variety of approaches you can take with the new Focus," said Melvin Betancourt, Ford design manager. "It's the perfect base to start from for aftermarket customization, whether you're looking to take this Focus racing or you just want to make a statement about your personality."
2012 Ford Focus by Ford Vehicle Personalization
A Focus developed by Ford Vehicle Personalization shows just what can be done when customers add Ford Custom Accessories into the mix. Working from a Focus covered in white tri-coat paint with hints of Caribbean Blue, the car features a new white body kit with an expressive concept graphic on the side panels.
Caribbean Blue accents are applied throughout the car, including the belt moldings, headlamps, mirrors, wheels and fog lamp bezels. Liquid silver paint also was applied to the roof spoiler, mirrors, headlamps and fog lamps, showing off extra attention to detail.
"We created a theme of an all-white vehicle with bursts of Caribbean Blue accents running throughout, which lends itself to many of the current trends seen in fashion," said Mark Conforzi, chief designer, Ford Vehicle Personalization. "White with dimension is a hot trend in Europe, and we found ways to incorporate that into our Focus in a manner that perfectly fits the vehicle."
The interior uses a black and white theme featuring all-leather seats with accent stitching. The steering wheel also showcases white and black leather, and the center stack features a soft-touch white paint. Unique etched scuff plates and aqua accent lighting round out the interior.
2012 Ford Focus by FSWerks
For FSWerks, the new Focus provides the perfect platform to add its own touch. The modifications start with 19-inch DPE R16 wheels matched with Continental ExtremeContact DW tires and a 3dCarbon roof wing.
From there, performance cues include an FSWerks stainless steel performance exhaust that provides maximum flow and horsepower. An FSWerks cold air intake, engine cover and front stress bar further set this car apart. An H&R Springs coil-over kit lowers the Focus 3 inches, offering superior ride quality and an aggressive stance.
"What I find great about the new Focus is that it's a sporty, compact Ford with the global design our customers want," said Randy Robles, FSWerks vice president. "The previous Focus versions have been huge for us, so we're excited to continue that tradition."
2012 Ford Focus by 3dCarbon
The Focus by 3dCarbon is sure to grab the attention of visitors to the Ford stand with its sinister looks complemented by a unique 3M matte finish VentureShield wrap film, which was installed by California C.A.R.S. Smoked-out windows with 3M window film add to the tough but elegant look of this vehicle. The wrap film can easily be installed and uninstalled to update the look of the car.
Except for the glossy black hood, the rest of the black body panels have a film foil wrap with a satin appearance. The 20-inch Series KM650-KMC wheels also feature the glossy black finish, highlighted with a red pinstripe. This Focus rides on Falken tires – FK452 – the true definition of an ultra-high-performance tire.
This Focus also sports a 3dCarbon roof wing that delivers enhanced looks and additional aerodynamic benefits. An H&R Springs sport spring delivers better handling and ride comfort, while an FSWerks cat-back exhaust offers style and functionality.
"This car builds on the already impressive styling of the new Focus with the unique touches we used, like the foil wrap and red accents," said Ernie Bunnell, 3dCarbon vice president of sales and marketing. "The design of the Focus fits where the market is right now and the global appeal of this car is sure to be a hit with our customers."
Sign in to post
Please sign in to leave a comment.
Continue