Ford unveils new B-Max
Ford has unveiled its new B-Max, which the manufacturer claims has a number of "ingenious" features to provide unrivalled access while retaining a compact feel.
According to the manufacturer, the new model offers customers a smarter and more versatile compact car, thanks to its combination of hinged front doors and sliding rear doors, which create a 1.5-metre unobstructed opening for unrivalled access and versatility.
Ford says that this new concept - dubbed the Easy Access Door System - was developed following an innovation project in which engineers 'went undercover' to observe drivers in their daily routine.
This included going shopping or picking up their children from school, as a means of understanding exactly what customers wanted in a compact car.
They came up with a solution that combines conventional, hinged front doors and rear sliding doors while integrating the traditional central pillar structure into the front and rear doors, rather than forming part of the bodyshell itself.
The result is a huge, clear opening, which is more than 1.5 metres wide and offers unrivalled access for a car of its type, Ford claims.
According to the manufacturer, this is around twice the width offered by competitors with alternative door concepts and makes it significantly easier to enter or exit the rear seats, attend to children in child seats, or load and unload shopping.
Other smart Smart technologies offered by the B-MAX include SYNC, its voice-activated, in-car connectivity system with Emergency Assistance, as well as a host of premium comfort features.
These include an eight-speaker Sony audio system, electronic automatic climate control system, Key Free system, Ford Power Button, Rear View Camera, Quickclear heated windscreen and Easy Fuel system.
Commenting on the new car, Ford's global small car vehicle line director Nick Collins said: "The B-MAX is packed full of ingenious features, from its unique door concept to the powerful SYNC voice control system. Customers can look forward to a smarter and more capable compact car."
Posted by Sebastien Turkenburg