Ford Vertrek

Ford revealed a design concept for a global compact crossover at the Detroit auto show. Named Vertrek, it could replace the Kuga in Europe and the Escape in North America by combining the best elements of both.

It is based on the underpinnings that have already been seen in the new C-Max and Grand C-Max and that will underpin the new Focus family starting in spring. Power comes from the companys new 1.6-litre Ecoboost direct-injection turbocharged petrol engine. For Europe it would also be available with one of Fords TDCi turbodiesel engines.

It features engine stop-start to save fuel when stationary in traffic, and regenerative braking to help keep the battery topped up.

Vertrek is a no-compromise solution we feel utility vehicle customers will embrace around the world, said Derrick Kuzak, vice-president of global product development. It is sleeker and more fuel efficient (than other compact crossovers) and delivers the capability, including people and cargo volume, customers demand globally.

The concept car combines Fords European kinetic design styling with the cargo space and towing and off-road capability Americans require.

Ford claims it would achieve class-best fuel economy and CO2 , helped by its sleek shape. Preliminary in-house data suggests that a vehicle based around the Vertrek concept would be at least 5% more aerodynamically efficient than the Escape and Kuga.

The Vertrek concept is the seventh of a least 10 new models Ford will build on the new C-car platform, and fits perfectly with the One Ford policy of developing cars on a global basis and modifying them for local markets.