Ford is unveiling the third in its series of exciting iosis ‘kinetic design’ bespoke concept cars at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show.
iosis MAX is a concept study for the next generation of Ford's compact multi-activity vehicle (MAV) as well as a glimpse at the design direction Martin Smith and his team are taking for the company's next generation global C-car family.
The iosis MAX features striking exterior and interior designs based on a fresh interpretation of Ford’s kinetic design form language.
It is a dynamic MAV and showcases new levels of efficiency and flexibility.
The car’s dramatic looks are complemented by innovative solutions which enhance its practicality and environmental performance. These include new door opening concepts, lightweight materials, advanced aerodynamics, and a preview of the European development of Ford's global EcoBoost petrol engine technology coming in 2010.Coupled to this clean and lean engine are the recently introduced and acclaimed Ford PowerShift transmission, plus a new Ford Auto-Start-Stop system due for production
in 2010.
“The iosis MAX marks the next stage in the evolution of kinetic design, and showcases a number of affordable petrol engine technologies that will make a difference to the environment and our customers’ pockets,” says Martin Smith, Ford of Europe’s Executive Design Director.
“Our designers have stretched themselves beyond the two previous iosis concepts, and have applied kinetic design form language to a MAV format vehicle,” adds Smith. “The iosis MAX proves that cars in the compact MAV class can have emotive, dynamic styling without sacrificing their traditional virtues of practicality or efficiency – something that the larger and revolutionary S-MAX has already demonstrated.”
“Although the iosis MAX isn’t a forerunner to a specific production vehicle, it clearly highlights how kinetic design is evolving and can be applied with stunning results to all vehicles in the Ford portfolio.”
Like all kinetic design vehicles, the exciting shape of the iosis MAX conveys ‘energy in motion’ through its athletic stance and muscular surfacing.
The design team also sought to create a strong impression of lightness and efficiency. This was achieved through the concept’s sleek, sporting and aerodynamic profile, which provides a clear contrast to the more boxy approach adopted by many vehicles in the compact MAV segment.
The feeling of lightness is reinforced by the extensive use of glass in the vehicle, with the steeply raked front screen flowing back in one piece to the tailgate, revealing the skeletal roof structure underneath.
The visual excitement of the concept’s exterior is also transferred to its interior design. The cabin extends some of the kinetic design themes with complex shapes and graphic forms which complement the expressive style used on the outside of the vehicle.
Advanced materials are combined with innovative solutions like the ‘floating’ seat design to create an overwhelming feeling of space and lightness for the occupants.
Imaginative details catch the eye all around the vehicle, including the striking new graphics for the front and rear lamps, stylish LED lighting strips in the rocker panels, and stunning 19-inch alloy wheels with a lightweight two-piece construction.
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