16 September 2014
6 Mins read

New Ford Focus offers increased fuel efficiency

The new Ford Focus offers drivers increased fuel efficiency and a reduced carbon footprint, according to the carmaker.

The new Ford Focus delivers fuel efficiency improvements of up to 15 per cent and significant CO2 emission reductions, according to a press release issued by the carmaker. The launch of this model will mark the first debut of the 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol engine in Europe.

According to the company, its engineers have further optimised power, torque and fuel efficiency from the 2.0-litre TDCi engine in the new Focus and this line will be offered with the award-winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine – including a 99 g/km CO2 1.0-litre EcoBoost model.

By integrating new diesel engine technologies, Ford have been able to include a lean NOX trap for cleaner exhaust emissions and has managed to reduce friction with microscopic applications of its unique ‘diamond like coating’.

The carmaker has been able to offer fuel efficiency improvements of up to 15 per cent by equipping the latest Focus with an auto-start-stop function, active grille shutter and ‘smart regenerative charging’ – all of which has helped the firm achieve significant reductions in CO2 emissions for both petrol and diesel models.

Commenting on the company’s achievements, Joe Bakaj, vice-president of product development, Ford of Europe, said: “We have improved fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance by analysing engine and transmission effectiveness down to the smallest detail, and also given consumers more choice with an additional four new engine and transmission combinations.”

Petrol

According to Ford, its new 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol engine can offer drivers a seven per cent improvement in fuel efficiency when paired with the six-speed manual gearbox, compared to the 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine it has replaced.

The new engine comes equipped with the integrated exhaust manifold technology – a system first introduced with the 1.0-litre alternative – which improves efficiency by enabling the engine to achieve its optimal temperature quicker.

Mr Bakaj believes the new 1.5-litre petrol Ford Focus provides the motorist with the latest EcoBoost engine technologies in a smart and efficient package. He added: “This new EcoBoost engine delivers an even more compelling option for drivers who love petrol performance and want low running costs.”

Diesel

The release of the new model, marks the first time that a Focus has been offered with the 1.5-litre TDCi diesel engine, which the firm claims provides greater power, torque and responsiveness.

According to the carmaker, the vehicle has the most fuel-efficient combustion process that Ford has ever been able to offer for a diesel engine and comes equipped with a lean NOX trap in the exhaust to ensure it produces cleaner emissions compared to previous models.

David King, manager, diesel calibration, Ford of Europe, said: “The total surface area of the active material inside the new lean NOX trap covers the equivalent of two and a half full-sized football pitches – despite measuring just 132mm in diameter and 124 mm in length.

“It acts like a sponge to capture the NOX emissions that result from more efficient combustion of diesel fuel, which is helping Ford achieve lower levels of CO2.”

Mr Bajak believes the new Focus is testament to Ford’s commitment to creating cars with optimal fuel efficiency, which it has been able to achieve by using advanced technologies. He added that prospective customers are no longer limited to specific models when trying to find a car with low running costs and a reduced carbon footprint, as the whole range can offer this and more.

Posted by Bob Fletcher