Ford iosis MAX

Ford has unveiled the iosis MAX concept car at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, which gives a strong clue to how the next Focus will look.

The iosis MAX is described as a dynamic Multi Activity Vehicle (MAV), “showcasing new levels of efficiency and flexibility”. It showcases new sliding doors at the rear, lightweight materials, advanced aerodynamics, and a preview of the European development of Ford's global EcoBoost petrol engine technology coming in 2010.

The 1.6-litre 180PS four-cylinder petrol engine from the new EcoBoost engine family features turbocharging and direct injection technology to deliver fuel economy up to 20 per cent better than conventional petrol engines with a similar power output.

EcoBoost engines will be progressively introduced to Ford’s European product range from early 2010.

The 1.6-litre EcoBoost unit in the iosis MAX is further optimised through the use of a new Ford Auto-Start-Stop system, also due for production in 2010, intelligent alternator and six-speed Ford PowerShift double-clutch automated manual gearbox with ratios tailored to deliver maximum fuel efficiency. Simulations predict that the concept vehicle could achieve CO2 emissions of 125g/km.

As well as side doors with no central pillar, the concept features a two piece tailgate design which allows the tailgate to be fully opened, even when there is restricted space behind or above the vehicle.