Ford is looking to increase its brand presence in China. GM and other Asian brands have already pegged the market there, but Ford is making steps towards this rapidly growing segment. At the Beijing Auto Show, the brand assembled their largest ever display in China. The interactive setup featured something we haven't seen from Ford in quite a while, an all-new concept car.

The Ford Start Concept takes cues from other current industry trends- presenting a small urban oriented commuter that promotes efficiency and connectivity. As Ford describes at length, it should essentially cover all the concerns of the modern urban commuter and first time buyer. The hassles of parking, traffic, and fuel cost should be mitigated by the Start's small yet functional size. Four occupants can ride in the car at once, though comfort would likely be at a premium. City cars like the Smart Car and and Scion iQ are direct competition.

A bite-sized 1.0 liter EcoBoost 3 cylinder residing under the hood promises to provide ample power. It's miniature size notwithstanding, Ford's EcoBoost powerplants have already proven that there is in fact a replacement for displacement- that being turbo power with direct injection. The figures for this future engine were not yet released, but they should be quite impressive. A six speed manual transmission is coupled to the new EcoBoost.

The concept features new smartphone technology ingeniously entitled MyFord Mobile. It allows access to HVAC and audio controls through your personal handheld device. Your smartphone can also be docked in the dash to allow in-car access to contacts and calling features. However, Ford points out these phone-specific features cannot be used while driving, a restrictive aspect likely praised by the People's Republic of China. If you still shun the idea of using a smartphone, the car's touchscreen probably makes these processes much simpler.

 

The Start's bubble-like exterior stylings have been seen before. It can be noted that although small by most conventional standards, the Start is not exactly a microcar, what with being 3.7 meters long and 1.7 meters wide. Flush glass windows and minimal body panel gaps should help lower the drag coefficient while further maximizing efficiency. LED headlights and taillights styled similar to Audi and BMW lend the concept that classy look.

 

Odd washboard ripples cover the seats and headliner, each bisected by twin racing stripes. The dash presents a dual-cockpit design with a touchscreen framed above the center console. Ford promises a production version within the next few years. When, what it will look like, and where it will be offered are still valid queries, though one can expect China to get first dibs.

 

Source: Ford