Bringing style and new levels of low-CO2 efficiency, Ford of Europe’s most frugal car ever – the new Fiesta ECOnetic – makes its world premiere today at the British International Motor Show in London.
Powered by a specially-calibrated version of the 90 PS 1.6-litre Duratorq TDCi, combined with coated Diesel Particulate Filter, Ford’s most economical Fiesta can travel 100 kilometres using just 3.7 litres of fuel, on the EC Combined Cycle. This impressive fuel economy is matched with a class-leading CO2 output of 98 grams per kilometre – making Fiesta ECOnetic the lowest CO2 vehicle in both its segment and Ford’s European range.
Compared to previous-generation Fiesta 1.6-litre TDCi, Fiesta ECOnetic will use 160 litres less fuel over 20.000 km, offering genuine savings in daily driving, at a time when saving fuel means saving even more money.
Extra-urban highway fuel economy is even better – Fiesta ECOnetic requires just 3.2 litres to cover 100 kilometres. Yet this efficiency is not at the expense of driving quality or performance, with Fiesta ECOnetic reaching 0-100 km/h in 12,3 seconds and a top speed of 178 kph.
This is because Fiesta boasts the same attention to detail as earlier ECOnetic models, with improved aerodynamics, low rolling resistance tyres and enhanced lubrication to achieve best possible CO2 and fuel consumption. Lowered ride height and aerodynamic details such as wheel covers and wheel deflectors build on Fiesta’s already streamlined drag co-efficient (Cd) of 0.33.
At the same time, low rolling resistance tyres in an economical 175/65 R14 profile, a longer final drive gear ratio and special lubricants drive efficient powertrain performance, especially in highway cruising. In conjunction with energy partner BP, Ford has developed low-viscosity transmission and low-friction engine oils for ECOnetic models.
Such modifications create Fiesta ECOnetic’s class-leading efficiency, without sacrificing the driving quality, style or practicality of the core Fiesta range.
Fiesta ECOnetic’s London debut is no coincidence – its ultra-low CO2 rating will also exempt it from UK road taxes.
It is not just the ECOnetic version of new Fiesta that benefits from Ford of Europe’s sustainability efforts – all new Fiestas feature Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS), using far less fuel and engine power than a standard hydraulic power assist system, without compromising driving dynamics or steering feedback.
Extensive use of high strength steels and a focus on weight saving has also reduced the mass of new Fiesta by 40 kilogrammes versus the previous model, despite improved safety equipment and sound insulation.
Sustainability has influenced not only new Fiesta’s development, but also the facilities behind its manufacture. Ford’s Dagenham Diesel Centre in Britain produces Duratorq TDCi engines for new Fiesta and derives all its electricity from renewable sources, with two dedicated wind turbines and plans for a third.
Ford is also sourcing renewable electricity to cover the full electric power demand of its Fiesta manufacturing and engineering facilities in Cologne, Germany. Through this initiative, the company will reduce its CO2 emissions by 190.000 tonnes per year.
Dr Wolfgang Schneider, Ford of Europe Vice President, Legal, Governmental and Environmental Affairs said: “The new Fiesta is the strongest example yet of Ford of Europe’s commitment to and investment in sustainable mobility. Fiesta ECOnetic is a compelling, stylish yet no-compromise choice for customers, offering class-leading low CO2 and genuine savings, while also benefitting from our investment in efficient production facilities.”
New Fiesta ECOnetic will be on sale across Europe later this year and completes an initial trilogy of models in the company’s European vehicle range that also includes a 139 g/km Ford Mondeo ECOnetic and a 115 g/km Ford Focus ECOnetic.
Today Alesha Dixon unveiled the all-new Ford Fiesta Zetec S at the British International Motor Show whilst performing her track ‘Fired Up’ live exclusively for the audience. 
Beijing Transportation Information Center (BTIC) and Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. announced today the first commercial application of the STAR WINGS project. The new Nissan Teana sedan offers a smart route-guidance navigation system as a standard feature on the 3.5L model and as an optional feature on the 2.5L model for customers in Beijing. 
Land Rover’s engineers are now conducting real-world tests with some ground-breaking Diesel ERAD Hybrid vehicles, aimed at dramatically cutting CO2 and other emissions while still delivering characteristic Land Rover all-terrain performance. These engineering ‘mules’ are based on Freelander 2 vehicles, but the technology is designed to be scalable and modular, so could be applied across a variety of Land Rover models and powertrains. 
BMW introduces a new concept in premium motoring, the BMW X6 Sports Activity Coupé. Powered exclusively by a pair of twin turbocharged straight-six engines, one petrol, the other diesel; the new BMW X6 redefines the concept of a sporting coupé for the 21st century. 
Chevrolet today revealed the new production Camaro, a heritage-inspired sports car for the 21st century, combining great looks and performance, advanced technology and surprising efficiency. Sales in the United States will begin in the first quarter of 2009. The European launch will follow later. 
Caterham Holland has announced that following the ongoing success of the current inaugural Dutch Academy series, it is now taking orders for the 2009 season. It is also pleased to report that the relationship with leading Dutch motoring magazine, Autovisie, will continue for the new season. 
The original MAZDA6, introduced in late 2002 for the 2003 model year, made Zoom-Zoom the two most evocative words in the automotive lexicon. This sport sedan was the first Mazda vehicle to benefit from the spirit of a true sports car infused in a five-passenger, 4-door sedan. That revolutionary combination created a commotion in the mid-size class where strict practicality, affordability, and economy of operation usually leave no room for driving enjoyment. The original MAZDA6’s vitality is what set it apart from competitors. 
HARTGE front spoiler lip
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week is a major event on the fashion calendar: between July 17 and 20 top German and international labels and designers will be showing their latest creations in Berlin. Exceptional products from Mercedes-Benz will add a touch of glamour to the catwalk. The exclusive iPhone® pouch, featuring high-quality CRYSTALLIZED™ Swarovski Elements, provides a glimpse of what can be expected in the new GLK Collection. 
The Renault-Nissan Alliance has confirmed the launch of a new manufacturing project in South Africa. Nissan’s manufacturing plant at Rosslyn was identified as having the potential to maximize synergies between Renault and Nissan.