Ford Vertrek: pointing the future of the compact SUV

Ford has unveiled at the 2011 North American International Auto Show its solution for today’s demand in a compact SUV. The Vertrek concept was thought globally, but focused on the North American, European and Chinese markets.

In fact, these three markets are responsible for global trends on this type of vehicle. All these customers are looking for an engaging design, outstanding fuel economy and smart technologies combined in a right-sized package thought for an active lifestyle

“In markets around the world, consumers are very clear about what they want in a compact SUV – strong design, great driving quality, smart technology and the capability that helps get them to places they love to be,” said Jim Farley, group vice president, Global Marketing, Sales and Service. “This holds true no matter where they live – in the U.S., Europe, China – these are global trends.”

With this concept Ford worked on the cargo-carrying capability that consumers are expecting in this segment, but added to it the craftsmanship and quality which is sometimes lost in the compact SUVs.

The Vertrek concept offers a maximum cargo volume of 1,879 litres, the same amount that is offered by the current Ford Escape in North America. Ford is also showing that an all-new Ford compact SUV could offer substantially more cargo volume than the current Ford Kuga sold in Europe.

For its showcase at the 2011 NAIAS, Ford has equipped the Vertrek concept with a 1.6-liter Ford EcoBoost™ gasoline engine which provides an anticipated best-in-class fuel economy. The concept also features the Ford Auto Start-Stop, which further contributes to fuel efficiency and low emissions.

Ford also sees its’ Vertrek concept being powered by one of its’ powerful diesel engines offered in markets outside the U.S., for example the 2.0-liter Ford Duratorq® TDCi engine.
According to Ford, in the compact SUV segment, customers are looking for more economical highway vehicles, which they can use for weekend getaways. For that reason, Ford engineers worked on the aerodynamic design of the Vertrek concept and opted for the inclusion of an accessible, small-displacement internal combustion engine in the vehicle rather than a hybrid or electric powerplant.

“Increased fuel economy, especially outstanding highway fuel economy, is what these customers want because they are active on the weekend, taking trips and seeking new experiences,” said Farley. “They want their vehicle to look good, drive well and use less fuel.”