2015 Ford Edge Concept Introduced

[blazerdude20]

2015 Ford Edge Concept Introduced

 

 

• Ford Edge Concept revealed today at Los Angeles Auto Show offers strong hints at the technology, dynamic design and premium craftsmanship that will define the company’s next global utility vehicles

• Advanced, automated driving technologies include self-parking and obstacle avoidance systems currently under development by Ford; these technologies preview a future of semi- and fully autonomous driving options, delivering tomorrow’s technology today

• Sleek exterior design communicates athleticism, confidence and capability; interior finished with premium materials and craftsmanship surpassing segment expectations

• Ford utility vehicles will be America’s best-selling utility brand for three straight years in 2013, outpacing the nearest competitor by 32 percent through October of this year

FORD EDGE FORUM - Ford, the company that defined the crossover utility vehicle segment, today introduced new automated driving technologies in the Ford Edge Concept. The technologies include a push-button and remote-operated parking feature customers could use from either inside or outside the vehicle.

 

“The original Ford Edge offered customers in North America a fresh, compelling choice for an accommodating, efficient and safe medium utility vehicle,” said Joe Hinrichs, executive vice president and president of The Americas, Ford Motor Company. “The next-generation Edge – previewed in the Ford Edge Concept – will build on these cornerstones to create a global vehicle with technology to make life easier, and design and craftsmanship to appeal to customers around the globe.”

 

Key attributes of the Ford Edge Concept – a sleek, sporty appearance; capability; fuel efficiency; and technology that assists the driver – are in line with what customers value around the world, which is driving global growth in the utility vehicle segment.

 

Data provided by IHS Automotive indicate global utility vehicle sales grew 45 percent between 2007 and 2012. The utility segment now accounts for more than 13 million sales annually – 17 percent of the global automotive market.

 

Utility vehicle sales in China are projected to grow significantly, by more than 100 percent from 2012 to 2017, according to IHS Automotive. In South America the utility segment is projected to grow 39 percent, and in Europe it is projected to grow 27 percent over the same period.

 

The current Ford Edge remains a segment sales leader in the United States. Edge is especially well-received in Southern California, where it accounts for nearly one in four sales this year of five-passenger medium utility vehicles. With market share of 23 percent, Ford Edge is the best-selling five-passenger utility vehicle in Southern California, according to Ford analysis of retail registration data from R.L. Polk.

 

Moreover, U.S. Ford-brand utility sales overall are up 12 percent through October compared to last year, and Ford utility vehicles will be America’s best-selling utility brand for three straight years in 2013, as it is outpacing the nearest competitor by 32 percent through October.

 

Advanced features to make smarter vehicles and better drivers
Driver-assist technologies and semi-automated features in Edge Concept hint at a future offering even more intelligent and capable vehicles from Ford. These sensor-based technologies form the building blocks for the future of automated driving, and will help make driving safer and more efficient.

 

“The rate of change in vehicle technology right now is unprecedented,” noted Raj Nair, Ford group vice president of global product development. “Our engineers around the world are advancing the systems that will ultimately help make drivers smarter, safer and more efficient. From advanced engine systems to collision avoidance and automated driving systems, Ford will continue to lead in delivering the technologies consumers want and need.”

 

Fully assisted parking aid, a prototype technology, lets customers park their vehicles at the touch of a button, or even by remote control. The concept builds on Ford’s current active park assist feature. It can find a perpendicular parking space using ultrasonic sensors. From inside, the driver pushes a button to activate the system; from outside the vehicle, fully assisted parking aid can be remotely activated, allowing customers to wait until the vehicle has pulled out of a tight parking spot before entering.

 

Using similar sensor and automated vehicle control technology, Ford has also begun a research project designed to refine advanced obstacle avoidance systems. In this case, the research and development vehicle is able to issue warnings if it detects slow-moving or stationary obstacles in the same lane ahead. If the driver fails to steer or brake following the warnings, the system will automatically steer and brake the vehicle to avoid a collision.

 

Adaptive steering, another new technology from Ford featured on Edge Concept, makes steering at low speeds dramatically easier, and steering in all conditions feel more confident and engaging. The technology, which builds on Ford’s electric power-assisted steering system, controls the relationship between how much the driver turns the wheel and how much the road wheels turn. This means that low-speed steering – such as pulling into or out of a parking space – requires much less turning of the wheel.

 

Tomorrow’s technology available today
Developing technology that can help people around the world feel more confident and secure is a high priority for Ford. Ford Edge Concept features many of the automated driver-assist technologies – the building blocks to fully automated vehicles of the future – that the company offers on its global products today. These include:

• Active park assist, which can ease the stress of parallel parking by using sensors and the steering system to guide a vehicle into a parking spot; the driver controls the gas and brake pedals. Available on 12 Ford models today
• Lane-Keeping System, which uses a forward-facing camera that can scan the road surface for lane markings. The system can evaluate if the vehicle is drifting out of its lane and then alert the driver by vibrating the steering wheel. If the driver does not respond to the vibrations, the system provides steering torque to nudge the vehicle back toward the center of the lane. Available on 11 Ford models today
• Adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support, which uses radar to detect moving vehicles immediately ahead, and can modify cruising speed if necessary. Available on 10 Ford models today
• Blind Spot Information System, which uses radar sensors in the rear corners that monitor the spaces next to and just behind the vehicle. On the road, these sensors trigger a warning light in the mirror when there is another vehicle in the driver’s blind spot. Available on 13 Ford models today

 

Sleek, athletic exterior design defines Ford Edge Concept
The technologies in the Ford Edge Concept complement the vehicle’s exterior design, which is carefully sculpted, fluid and athletic. The side view is highlighted by a D-pillar line that comes down the rail, takes a jog and returns.

 

Strong shoulders on Ford Edge Concept add to the feel and appearance of a runner in the starting blocks. The rearward slope of the grille influences the shape of the hood, which is both muscular and more compact. In a unique execution, the three-bar grille is connected to LED headlamps in a premium fashion.

 

To aid the fuel efficiency of a next-generation EcoBoost^® engine with start-stop technology, the Edge Concept has a new high-tech application of Active Grille Shutters. The shutters automatically open and close to maintain ideal engine operating temperature and maximize aerodynamic efficiency. When activated, a panel slips down from above, then two more move into place, appearing as if they radiate from the Ford oval. The brighter finish gives a stunning contrast to the black background.

 

To improve efficiency further, unique air curtains are positioned on the lower part of the fascia. The air curtains and ducting are designed to guide air from the front of the vehicle, out through the front wheel wells and down the vehicle side.

 

LED lighting is used on both the headlamps and taillamps of the Ford Edge Concept.

 

Functional and decorative design elements combine to create a stunning display – these technical graphics are a hallmark of modern Ford design. The headlamps light up in complete white, creating an uninterrupted, homogeneous display. Individual LEDs light up crystal cubes on the high beams.

 

The turn signal transforms from a chrome-appearing piece into bright amber, lit from behind through microscopic holes in the bezel, adding to the laser-thin appearance of the headlamps. The taillamps are executed in a similar fashion, cleverly and stylishly connected to the backlight.

 

The exterior is painted in Copper Flame, a modern interpretation of a premium color currently popular on Ford cars.

 

Elevated craftsmanship, elegant colors and rich materials
The interior of Ford Edge Concept is open and airy, with a level of craftsmanship and material quality that consumers around the world will appreciate.

 

“We wanted the interior to be consistent in its dynamic character with the exterior of the Ford Edge Concept,” said Hak Soo Ha, interior design manager. “We call the interior environment Dynamic Sanctuary, because it combines the energetic character of the exterior with a more premium cabin execution. The shapes provide a dynamic, in-motion impression that soothes rather than fatigues.”

Premium interior elements include:

• Leather-wrapped and hand-stitched instrument panel
• 10-inch touch screen center display with MyFord Touch^®
• Dynamic center stack with premium mechanical switchgear
• Unique gear shifter
• Bright work on the armrest, door-release bezel and air registers
• Floating binnacle top
• Unique steering wheel
• Scuff plate with bright silver finish, matte black paint and LED-lit “Edge”

 

High levels of craftsmanship and rich materials unify the interior of Ford Edge Concept. Copper is used as the accent color in the carpet, instrument panel and other areas for its premium appearance, complementing the exterior paint color.

 

Premium black Nubuck wraps the upper instrument panel, center console and door elements, enhanced by elegant stitching. The heavy, oiled-grain texture has a feel similar to leather used on high-end furniture; this is juxtaposed with smooth leather on the touchpoints.

 

The vehicle’s leather seats are executed with a distinct perforation pattern, as well as premium stitching and accent plating in the head restraint and top of the shoulder bolster.

“The Ford Edge Concept is the latest example of a utility vehicle that delivers the attributes global customers value most – design, fuel efficiency, driving dynamics, and customer-focused technology to help the driver feel more confident,” said Hinrichs.

 

Download the Ford Edge Concept fact sheet.

 

 

 

Edited November 20, 2013 by staff
EDITED TO SHOW FULL ARTICLE

[twmalonehunter]

I don't like it. Is this a refresh or an all new design?

[hbalek]

I don't like it. Is this a refresh or an all new design?

It is an all-new global Edge! I think the leaked image seen here and this rendering are closer to the real version!

Edited November 20, 2013 by hbalek

[fordmantpw]

I like it! Hopefully the production version can stay pretty true to that concept!

[Focus06]

It could use a litttle touching up but overall i think its pretty nice.

I just hope they don't use those tail lights on it. Lincoln should be the only car with full width taillights. Ford shouldn't have anything like it on their cars.

[LoveTaurus]

The body resembling the MKC !

[PREMiERdrum]

I like it, a lot.

 

They managed to make it look decidedly less Hyundai-like than the leaked Powerpoint image.

[IMSA-XJR9]

I dig it!

[92LX302]

I like it, They kept an Edge-like face and added style to the rear. IMO, the rear was the bland part of the last two Edges.

 

 

Except for the fancy seats, what's so concept about this? It even has mirrors and half door handles!

[silvrsvt]

Not a huge change from the current Edge, but the styling looks much better then what was leaked in that powerpoint. I like it!

[NickF1011]

Hope that new IP is the face of things to come. The Edge's current IP I think is one of its weak spots. Perhaps this may debut with an overhauled version of MFT?? 10" screen would be new, no?

 

Overall, it looks to retain everything I liked about the Edge when I bought mine and improves on a few spots I was iffy about.

Edited November 20, 2013 by NickF1011

[akirby]

Full width taillights???

[silvrsvt]

Full width taillights???

 

Do they light up all the way around or they just attached in the middle...might not make it to production?

[silvrsvt]

One thing to note, I was comparing dimensions of the new Edge vs the Fusion and the platform appears to be 3 inches wider than the Fusion. Add a couple inches to the WB and your looking at the next gen Taurus and MKS platform.

 

The Edge is actually shorter then the Fusion in overall length too

[TBirdStangSkyliner]

Poor Momzilla has been given a tragic face and a completely forgettable body.

[Anthony]

The shape of the rear deck / end looks very Lexus RX with that rake.

 

 

Edited November 20, 2013 by Intrepidatious

[Anthony]

That being said, the entire thing screams "EDGE". Enough new stylistic bits to bring it into the new corporate Ford style, but retaining the overall form associated with the current Edge.

 

Soccer moms across the states will have no problem trading it in for another.

Edited November 20, 2013 by Intrepidatious

[fordmantpw]

That being said, the entire thing screams "EDGE". Enough new stylistic bits to bring it into the new corporate Ford style, but retaining the overall form associated with the current Edge.

 

Agreed!

 

Soccer moms across the states will have no problem trading it in for another.

 

Along with moderators on Ford forums.

 

If we didn't need a 3rd row, I would love to trade our Flex for one. But, 2 booster seats plus a 3rd child would make for a cramped back seat.

[Anthony]

 

Agreed!

 

 

Along with moderators on Ford forums.

 

If we didn't need a 3rd row, I would love to trade our Flex for one. But, 2 booster seats plus a 3rd child would make for a cramped back seat.

 

 

Don't worry man, anyone with an Edge way ahead of me, we broke down and got a minivan...and none of our kids play soccer!

[SoonerLS]

But, 2 booster seats plus a 3rd child would make for a cramped back seat.

I think my LS's back seat is a wee bit more spacious than the Edge's, and I once had three car seats (two forward-facing and one rear-facing) in its the back seat. I wouldn't recommend it as a standard course of action...

[twintornados]

The body resembling the MKC !

The hood and the rear "quarter window" treatment is all Fusion.....my question is only, "Was Ford able to pare about 500 lbs off the current design?" Lets hope so, the Edge in her current form is kinda heavy...

[fordmantpw]

 

 

Don't worry man, anyone with an Edge way ahead of me, we broke down and got a minivan...and none of our kids play soccer!

 

My wife refused to drive a minivan. We looked at a few, and just ignoring the fact that they were minivans, the interior on the Flex was SO much nicer than any minivan out there at the time (Fall '08). Had the Flex not been around (it was just released...we had to wait for one to show up on the lot just to see one in person), she'd probably be driving a minivan, though.

 

I think my LS's back seat is a wee bit more spacious than the Edge's, and I once had three car seats (two forward-facing and one rear-facing) in its the back seat. I wouldn't recommend it as a standard course of action...

 

Yeah, I almost bought a Montego a year or so ago as a daily driver, but it was just too cramped with the kids in the back. Once they are out of booster seats, our options will open up quite a bit, but for now, we need big vehicles to haul them in. Another year for our son and about 4 for our youngest daughter, and the boosters will be gone. That just happens to coincide with when we will be vehicle shopping again.

[NickF1011]

Poor Momzilla has been given a tragic face and a completely forgettable body.

 

The overall body shape looks very similar to the current vehicle, which seems to have found an audience just fine. I'm glad the profile didn't change a whole lot myself (a current owner).

[Harley Lover]

I'm not in the target demo, so I'm very happy to read all the positive comments from those in that market.

 

That said, it's almost too evolutionary for me, and I don't care for the front end, which gives me Ecosport vibes:

 

 

Glad everyone likes it, sure sounds like Ford will have a continuing good seller here.

[NickF1011]

The body resembling the MKC !

 

Other than being a CUV, I can't really see the similarities at all.