Ford S-Max Concept Blends Crafted Design With Smart Technology

COLOGNE, GERMANY – Aug 29, 2013: Ford of Europe has revealed the new Ford S-MAX Concept, a sport activity vehicle that takes the style-without-compromise ethos of the popular current S-MAX to new levels with a sharper design, advanced technology and premium craftsmanship.

“When Ford unveiled the Sport Activity Vehicle Concept in 2005 it immediately captured the public’s imagination and inspired us to produce today’s S-MAX, a true white space vehicle,” saidBarb Samardzich, Product Development vice president, Ford of Europe. “Our new S-MAX Concept takes that unique appeal to the next level with Ford’s latest design and technology innovations for a new generation.”

The new S-MAX Concept employs the latest Ford global design language with a high mounted grille, swept-back headlamps and a unique treatment of the vehicle’s lower fascia incorporating design elements that appear to float within the lower front aperture and above the spoiler.

The characteristic S-MAX profile has been honed with the front bonnet sweeping seamlessly into the sharply raked front screen, which in turn flows into the dynamic arc of the roof to create a unique glass graphic. This sleek silhouette surrounds a spacious and versatile interior that offers anything from four to seven-seat configurations.

“S-MAX drivers are passionate and have high expectations – they see their S-MAX as a one-of-a-kind vehicle,” said Martin Smith, executive design director, Ford of Europe. “Our mission was to exceed their expectations in every area while respecting the core of what they love about the S-MAX.”

Further exterior design cues include a feature line running along the flank to create an impression of length and speed, sculptured muscular shoulders, and distinctive headlamps featuring Organic LEDs – the latest lighting that offers greater flexibility in terms of positioning and design, fast response and colour range.

The S-MAX Concept interior is an expression of cutting-edge design, convenience, connectivity, flexibility and craftsmanship.

The front cabin places the focus firmly on the driver. Dynamic shapes and forms combine in a high-set instrument panel that cuts back in the centre console and creates a feeling of space. The door panels are similarly sculptured and an innovative interior roof design maximises the feeling of spaciousness. High quality materials include an ultra-soft leather wrap for the instrument panel, and leather and carbon fibre detailing for the sculptured seats.

“The fine detailing and visible craftsmanship in areas such as the instrument panel air vents reward the driver,” said Smith. “Each and every element of the interior stands up to close inspection with intricate and thoroughly considered design.”

The Ford S-MAX Concept employs leading-edge Ford features and technologies to provide new levels of connectivity and well-being as well as safety, convenience and driving appeal.

The Ford SYNC system sits at the heart of the vehicle’s advanced connectivity features. Ford SYNC with MyFord Touch delivers wi-fi for passengers, supported by a tablet docking station that allows second row occupants to integrate personal devices into the vehicle.

SYNC AppLink enables the driver to voice-control smart phone apps from an expanding list of service providers, which include Spotify, Kaliki, Glympse and Aha – bringing additional music, news, personalised information as well as location and navigation options into the vehicle.