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News of September 04, 2002

New Ford Focus Fuel Cell Vehicle To Tour Europe

Ford Focus 2003

Photo: Ford

COLOGNE, Germany - Ford will undertake a rigorous two-week testing tour of Europe with its new zero-emissions Ford Focus Fuel Cell Vehicle - the Company's most advanced environmental vehicle ever - which combines the latest hybrid electric vehicle technology and leading edge fuel cell development with the world's best-selling passenger car.

The Focus FCV is the motor industry's first "hybridized fuel cell vehicles," bringing together the improved range and performance of hybrid technology with the overall benefits of a fuel cell.

First outing for the car will be the Michelin Bibendum Environmental Rallye, which begins in the German city of Heidelberg on September 22 and runs to Paris. The Focus FCV will then appear at the Paris Motor Show, before heading for drive programs in Germany and Britain and ending up at the Birmingham Motor Show on October 23.

Dr. Gerhard Schmidt, Ford Vice President - Research, said: "The Ford Focus FCV is our most advanced environmental vehicle ever and gives clear demonstration of future direction. There are still many hurdles before us, but we do believe fuel cells are a technology with the potential some day to replace the internal combustion engine, without compromising the performance and functionality customers expect in a vehicle."

During its test program the Focus FCV is expected to demonstrate its 160-200 mile (250-320 kms) operating range - a significant improvement on previous fuel cell vehicles (which typically achieved a maximum range of 100 miles or less). The Focus FCV's performance levels compare with a more conventional saloon and its top speed is governed at 80mph.

(August 28, 2002)

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