by Ross Finlay (09 Jun 04)

This is definitely a world first: a Ford concept car introduced to a global audience in Beijing, on the occasion of Auto China 2004.

There's a lot of talk about the four-door saloon being "a teaser version of what will become the most sophisticated Focus to date, with German engineering and European style," but Ford has introduced a strong China-business element too.

At the unveiling Mark Schultz, the company's executive vice-president for the Asia Pacific and Africa regions, said that, "China and Asia Pacific are now the epicentre of world growth, and mid-size cars are the core of the regional markets; so this show is a key competitive arena for the new-generation Focus."

The show car is certainly a great deal more stylish than the current Focus saloon, whose rear end appearance just doesn't jell with the "New Edge" approach created in the first place for the hatchbacks.

Ford describes the Focus Concept as "clearly stating its European heritage with clean taut lines and an aggressive stance. It conveys solidity and substance while boasting generous curves and a distinct shoulder. A low sweeping roofline and fast rear screen angle visually elongate the overall shape and promote a perception of athleticism."

Sapphire Ice is the bodywork colour, not available in the current Focus catalogue. The wheels are unusual too, 19" in diameter with seven polished spokes, and finished with a new "rubber-like" material for the inserts.

Ford and Osram Opto Semiconductors co-operated in the design of the LED lights used front and rear. When illuminated, the headlamps and front foglamps produce a continuous ring of light, completely different from conventional types, and they have a "bubble" effect which may not see production for a while.

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