ADVANCED CHASSIS SYSTEMS PROVIDE ALL-NEW FORD FOCUS WITH PLATFORM FOR OUTSTANDING DYNAMICS

  • Advanced chassis technologies and strengthened body structure provide the foundation for class-leading Focus driving dynamics and refinement
  • Optimized designs for Control Blade multilink rear suspension and semi-isolated front subframe improve Focus driving dynamics
  • Focus features an all-new electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) system delivering precision with a natural feel

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 24, 2011 The all-new Ford Focus combines new and updated chassis technologies with a stronger, stiffer structure to ensure it delivers class-leading driving dynamics and refinement. Many of the body and chassis features were an integral part of Fords new global C-car platform, which was developed with outstanding driving quality as a primary objective.

Adopting new and optimized chassis systems allowed us to set ambitious goals for driving dynamics on the new Focus, said Mark Rushbrook, vehicle dynamics manager. Technologies like EPAS have made it possible to raise vehicle performance to a new level.

Body structure stiffened to enhance vehicle dynamics and NVH
The body structure of the new Focus is 30 percent stiffer than the out going model with increased stiffness to enhance vehicle dynamics and NVH in the most important areas, such as the chassis attachment points and the front-end structure.

At the front end of the vehicle, the suspension top mounts have been linked by a sheet metal tower brace, which is integrated with the bulkhead. This bracing increases local stiffness by 50 percent to reduce NVH and improve steering feel.

At the rear, local strengthening has increased top mount stiffness by 45 percent, contributing to reduced body flex, enhanced rear-suspension performance and a noise reduction in the rear-seating area.

Optimized front and rear suspension designs
The chassis design of the new Focus is an evolution of the innovative concepts used in the current models. The suspension systems have been completely updated, with optimized new designs for the Control Blade multilink rear suspension and semi-isolated front subframe.

The front suspension is based on the same MacPherson-strut arrangement but with lighter and re-optimized components and a wider front track. The updated specification includes:

  • Lighter, weight-optimized front lower control arms
  • Stiffer and lighter newly designed front subframe
  • Revised stablizer bar mounting to improve roll control
  • Improved damper valve technology for improved ride comfort and road noise while maintaining body control
  • Optimized bushings to reduce road noise and vibration

The rear suspension also has a wider track and features an updated version of the acclaimed independent Control Blade multilink suspension system. The key elements of the new system include:

  • Optimized Control Blade design
  • Increased diameter dampers for improved ride comfort and road noise while maintaining body control
  • Larger hub bearings for increased camber stiffness and handling precision
  • Revised anti-roll bar mounting to improve roll control
  • Optimized bushings to reduce road noise and vibration

Advanced new EPAS system
The new Focus uses a completely new EPAS system, which plays a key role in delivering the dynamic driving experience.

The EPAS system is the latest rack-mounted design, which is capable of delivering precise steering with a natural and confident feel. The system has been carefully tuned with sophisticated speed mapping to deliver accurate responses at high speed while remaining light and manageable in parking maneuvers.

Compared to the outgoing model, the steering ratio on the new Focus has been reduced from 16:1 to 14.7:1, creating a more responsive and direct feel.

The EPAS system provides power assistance only when required; it also reduces fuel consumption in comparison with conventional hydraulic power steering systems. EPAS enables active park assist as well.

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About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 163,000 employees and about 70 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com.

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