Ford Takes The AhChoo Out Of Driving! First Car with 'Allergy-tested Interior'

March 2004 (Newstream) -- Good news for all car drivers suffering from allergies: the TÜV Rheinland Group in Cologne - an authoritative industry body controlling and approving quality standards of industrial and consumer products - has today given its "Allergy-tested Interior" seal of approval to the Ford Focus C-MAX. It is the first time ever that independent, external experts have certified that the interior of a car consists exclusively of materials that reduce the risk of allergies to the lowest possible level.

Prior to issuing the certificate, extensive and scientifically verifiable test series were carried out in accordance with strict TÜV examination procedures. In a comprehensive examination trial at Ford's initiative, all materials were tested for substances of potential concern. Additionally, all components likely to have direct and prolonged skin contact such as seat covers, floor mats and seat belts were also dermatologically tested.

"Allergies are still being underestimated. They affect the lives of a great number of people of all ages", said Derrick Kuzak, Ford of Europe Vice President for product development. "That is why Ford will continue and expand this initiative without charging extra costs", he said. "Ford will also have future cars certified according to the TÜV criteria. For those models that are already on the market, material changes will be introduced in order to meet the stringent requirements of the TÜV seal of approval. This will not happen overnight, but we're committed to having allergy tested interiors in all our cars", said Kuzak.

This does not mean, however, that Ford models not yet granted the TÜV certificate are not attractive options to allergy-sensitive people. Since 1984, Ford has applied extensive, worldwide materials management for all cars, making sure that the materials used do not negatively affect the health of drivers or passengers. The same strict requirements apply to all suppliers.

During the development phase and selection of materials for the passenger compartment of the Ford Focus C-MAX, Ford consistently abstained from using materials such as latex or nickel, which can provoke allergic reactions with allergy-sensitive people. Furthermore, the Ford Focus C-MAX is equipped with a high-performance pollen filter, which has also been certified by the TÜV. It effectively prevents the pollen - especially feared by asthmatics - from entering the vehicle's interior.

The TÜV certificate is also a useful orientation guide for people who are not allergy-sensitive, since an important part of the TÜV tests consisted of extensively analysing passenger compartment air quality and thereby examining the concentration of organic substances such as formaldehyde, phenols, phthalates, or solvents. Measurement and assessment criteria are published on the Internet (www.tuv.com; ID number: 4111008300).