Ford has revealed this head-turning concept MPV at the 2009 Geneva auto show to express the design direction for its next generation of global C-cars.
The Iosis Max showcases new door opening concepts, light materials, advanced aerodynamics and a preview of Ford's global EcoBoost petrol engine technology, due in 2010, that includes a six-speed double-clutch transmission and auto stop-start.
Ford of Europe design director Martin Smith said: "The Iosis Max combines a number of affordable engine technologies that will make a difference to the environment and our customers' pockets.
"Our designers have stretched beyond the two previous Iosis concepts to build a compact MPV that proves this class can have emotive, dynamic styling without sacrificing the traditional virtues of practicality and or efficiency."
The concept's sleek, coupé-like profile contrasts with the more boxy approach adopted by many compact MPV's, reinforced by the extensive use of glass - the windscreen flows back in one piece to the tail door, revealing the skeletal roof structure underneath.
Ford's signature trapezoidal grille dominates the front - but with three horizontal chromed bars for emphasis - while the "flying buttress" C pillars act as spoilers, channelling airflow as close as possible to the tailgate glass for optimum aerodynamic efficiency.
The Iosis Max has no B pillars; the front doors hinge and the rear doors slide open. The two-piece tail door can be fully opened even when there is restricted space behind or above the vehicle.
The interior is based on a spine-like bridge that runs the length of the cabin, supporting the centre console and providing a mounting point for the four individual seats and central armrests. The seats are cantilevered from the bridge to provide uninterrupted floor space to give occupants the sensation that they're "floating on air".
The centre console has a smooth Plexiglass surface that acts as a touch-screen display to control the vehicle's systems. Information - such as satnav instructions or details of an incoming phone call - is displayed on the console using projectors mounted beneath the surface.
A rotary control at the bottom of the console allows the driver to switch between functions and a mouse-like controller in front of the central armrest navigates within menus as an alternative to using the touch screens.
DOUBLE-CLUTCH GEARBOX
The concept has a 133kW, 1.6-litre, turbocharged, four-cylinder petrol engine with direct fuel-injection from Ford's new EcoBoost engine family, for which it claims up to 20 percent better fuel efficiency than conventional petrol engines with similar power.
EcoBoost engines will be introduced to Ford's European product range from early 2010.
It drives the Iosis' front wheels through a six-speed, double-clutch, automated manual gearbox with auto stop-start and an "intelligent" alternator. Ford estimates emissions of 125g/km of CO2.
Ford Europe CEO John Fleming said: "We're keen to hear reaction to the Iosis Max because the design team worked hard to incorporate so many interesting ideas, features and materials that could find their way into future Ford vehicles.
"The next 18 months will see some exciting new models with affordable clean technologies - when we say 'Feel the Difference', our customers will know we mean it!"