The all-new Ford Mondeo delivers the global debut of a new pedestrian detection technology that could help reduce the severity of accidents or help drivers avoid them altogether.
Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection feature is delivered alongside the model’s widest ever range of powertrains including the first Mondeo petrol-electric hybrid. A new 210 PS TDCi diesel engine with twin sequential turbocharging will be available early next year.
Available in four-door and five-door bodystyles, and as a wagon – developed specifically for Europe – the all new Mondeo offers greater refinement and craftsmanship, technologies including Ford’s adaptive LED headlamps, Inflatable Rear Seatbelts and Multi-Contour Seats; and sophisticated design.
Detecting pedestrians
Ford’s new Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection can detect people in or near the road ahead, or who may cross the vehicle’s path, if the system detects a potential collision it automatically applies the brakes if the driver does not respond to warnings. The system processes information collected from a windshield-mounted camera, and radar located in the bumper, and checks it against a database of “pedestrian shapes” to help distinguish people from typical roadside scenery and objects.
If a pedestrian is detected in front of the car, and a collision becomes imminent, the driver will first receive an audible and visual warning. Should the driver not respond, the system then shortens the time required to apply the brakes by reducing the gap between brake pads and discs. If there is still no response from the driver the brakes are applied automatically and the vehicle speed is reduced.
Engineers tested the system on closed circuits using rigs fitted with life-size dummies. They also spent months testing and refining the system on roads around the world to prove system reliability under real world conditions.
The all-new Mondeo also will apply automatic braking to mitigate or avoid a collision with a vehicle ahead. Active City Stop operates at speeds of up to 40 km/h (25 mph). At higher speeds new Pre-Collision Assist uses radar and camera technology which allows it to scan ahead and automatically apply up to full braking force to help the driver mitigate or avoid many types of rear-end collision.
Radar technology further enables the new Distance Indication feature and Adaptive Cruise Control technology. Distance Indication provides an intuitive visual interface to inform the driver of the time gap to the vehicle ahead. Adaptive Cruise Control automatically maintains a chosen distance from the vehicle ahead.
In addition, the forward-facing camera supports Lane Keeping Aid, which applies steering torque to guide the all-new Mondeo back in to lane if unintended drifting towards the lane marking is detected; and Traffic Sign Recognition, which provides the driver with the latest detected speed limit, cancellation signs and overtaking restrictions via the instrument cluster display.
Widest engine range ever
All-new Mondeo petrol engine options will include the 1.5-litre EcoBoost and 2.0-litre EcoBoost alongside Ford’s fuel-efficient and surprisingly powerful 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, which was recently named International Engine of the Year for an unprecedented third time in a row.
The all-new Mondeo also will offer an optional high-powered 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engine featuring twin sequential-turbocharging and delivering 210 PS and 450 Nm of torque. An ECOnetic Technology model will be available, powered by a 1.6-litre diesel engine with class-leading diesel CO2 emissions of 94 g/km and 2.0-litre TDCi diesel models with 150 PS or 180 PS.
The four-door Mondeo Hybrid combines a specially-developed 2.0-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and 1.4 kWh lithium-ion battery to provide optimised fuel economy and CO2 emissions of 99 g/km. Fuel-efficiency and emissions are improved across the Mondeo powertrain range by up to 14 per cent, supported by features including drag-reducing Active Grille Shutter.
Class-leading dynamics
The first model for Europe to be built on Ford’s new global CD-segment platform, the all-new Mondeo will debut Ford’s new integral link rear suspension configuration for improved refinement and more dynamic performance. The all-new platform and body structure is enhanced with Electric Power Assisted Steering for the first time on Mondeo, and an optimised anti-lock braking system also helps reduce stopping distances by more than 1 metre from 100 km/h (62 mph).
Stronger body with advanced materials
The all-new Ford Mondeo uses sophisticated materials and production techniques to deliver greater strength and improved safety with reduced weight and enhanced sustainability. An industry-first application of hydro-formed high strength steel is used to produce the A-pillars, B-pillars, and roof rails. A new magnesium inner tailgate structure for the four- and five-door models delivers a weight-saving of approximately 40 per cent compared to a traditional steel equivalent.
Also helping deliver body structure weight savings of up to 115 kg for the 1.5-litre EcoBoost model is a recycled Front Energy Absorber, Ford’s first design to meet pedestrian protection requirements in both the U.S. and Europe. The 1.5-litre EcoBoost Mondeo weighs 25 kg less than the previous generation 1.6-litre EcoBoost model, with 80 per cent of weight savings re-invested in technology to support enhanced fuel efficiency, lower CO2 emissions, improved safety and better comfort. The Mondeo body structure features 61 per cent high strength steel. Bake-hardened steel is used in the roof structure to reduce weight by a further 0.5 kg.
Further structural developments include:
- An anti-roll bar uniquely designed to limit transmission travel in a frontal impact, minimising steering rack movement
- Sill rocker panels made of martensitic boron steel for improved side impact protection
- Bumper crash cans optimised for energy absorption and harmonised with chassis rail characteristics
- A flanged front cowl design that allows for flex under impact to increase energy absorption
- An integrated rear underbody wheel-arch-to-rail connector that increases torsional stiffness by up to 25 per cent compared with a traditional design
Comfort, convenience and safety technology
All-new Mondeo introduces Ford’s adaptive LED headlamp technology to Europe; combining full-LED headlamps with Ford’s Adaptive Front Lighting System to enhance the driver’s view of surroundings.
An advanced version of Active Park Assist featuring Perpendicular Parking enables drivers to detect suitably-sized parallel parking spaces and reverse hands-free into spaces and is supported by Park-Out Assist, which helps drivers to exit parallel parking spaces. Side Parking Aid also warns drivers of obstacles to the sides of the vehicles, as well as to the front and rear.
Ford’s industry-first Inflatable Rear Seatbelt technology will make its European debut on the all-new Mondeo. In the event of an accident, the belt rapidly expands to disperse crash forces across a body area five times greater than that achieved by a conventional seatbelt.
Mondeo also will enhance comfort and convenience for drivers with features including first-in-class power-adjustable, memory-equipped steering column, Ford Multi-Contour Seats with unique Active Motion massage function, and Ford’s SYNC 2 connectivity system.
Segment-first enhanced MyKey technology will enable Mondeo owners to programme a key – usually for younger drivers. MyKey now can inhibit incoming phone calls as well as restricting the top speed; preventing deactivation of driver assistance and safety features; reducing the maximum volume of the audio system, and disabling the system altogether if driver and passengers are not using safety belts.
Superior refinement, design and quality
Road noise reductions of around 3 decibels in the rear and 2 decibels in the front have been achieved with integral link rear suspension and additional sound deadening material, while wind noise is reduced by 8 per cent to levels previously only experienced in the premium segment. Mondeo delivers best-ever quality and craftsmanship for both the refined, elegant, sporty and highly expressive exterior, and the interior that features optimised ergonomics and comfort, with premium finishes and equipment.
All-New Ford Mondeo Enhances Comfort with Sophisticated Technology, Innovative Chassis and Noise-Reducing Body
The all-new Ford Mondeo leverages innovative driver assist technologies, an advanced chassis structure, and high quality interior to deliver superior comfort and refinement. Mondeo introduces in Europe Ford’s Multi-Contour Seats with unique Active Motion massage function, and new integral link rear suspension for improved ride comfort and interior noise reductions. Mondeo also offers Ford’s new SYNC 2 voice control connectivity system with 8-inch touchscreen for easy operation of phone, entertainment, climate and navigation systems.
Technologies including Ford’s first adaptive LED headlamps in Europe and Active Park Assist featuring Perpendicular Parking contribute to a simplified driving experience.
Sitting comfortably
Ford Multi-Contour Seats with Active Motion massage function are designed to reduce muscle fatigue for front seat occupants, particularly during longer journeys. The 10-way adjustable seats also incorporate heating and cooling features, and use a system of 11 cushions to deliver an unobtrusive massaging effect for thighs, bottom and lower back.
Fast-responding nano-valve technology uses memory-shape metal wires the width of a human hair to control airflow in and out of individual cushions and provide the massage effect, or tailored support. The seat-base bolsters even deflate when the doors are opened for easier exit.
A team including two medical doctors developed Ford Multi-Contour Seat technology to deliver optimal performance using advanced techniques including pressure mapping, ultra-sonic posture monitoring for viewing occupant spine movement when seated, and electromyography that measures the small electrical impulses created by muscle movement.
Lighting the way with advanced technology
All-new Mondeo’s adaptive LED headlamps combine the daylight-mimicking light clarity of full-LED headlamps with Ford’s Adaptive Front Lighting System, which adjusts the headlight beam angle and intensity to match driving environment. The system can choose one of seven settings according to vehicle speed, ambient light conditions, steering angle, distance to the vehicle in front and windscreen wiper activation. The all-new Mondeo will feature an advanced version of Active Park Assist featuring Perpendicular Parking, which enables drivers to detect suitably-sized parallel parking spaces and reverse hands-free into spaces parallel to the road and side-to-side with other cars.
This advanced parking feature will be supported by both Park-Out Assist, which helps drivers to exit parallel parking spaces; and Side Parking Aid, which delivers an on-screen visual representation and audible warning of obstacles to the sides of the vehicles, as well as to the front and rear.
Control climate and more with voice commands
The SYNC 2 system offered by Mondeo enables drivers to control key in-car systems using simple, natural voice commands and a high-resolution 8-inch colour touch screen. Connectivity is delivered via Bluetooth, USB and SD card ports. Simply pushing the voice control button and saying “I’m hungry” will bring up a list of local restaurants, and the MICHELIN guide can help drivers choose where to eat. SYNC 2 will then connect users by phone to the restaurant to book a table and guide them there.
Entering a navigation address is also simplified. Rather than reciting the address in stages, users can say the full address at once, and can select music from a connected MP3 device by asking SYNC 2 to play an artist or track. Cover art is also displayed on screen with compatible players. Customers can place hands-free phone calls with the command “Call <name>”, without first having to give the command “Phone”, while the system is in audio, navigation or another mode.
SYNC 2 also features Ford’s Emergency Assistance, which directly connects the vehicle occupants to local emergency services operators after an accident, in the correct language for the region.
Mondeo drivers can also control interior climate using voice commands including “Max AC” to cool down quickly, or more specific commands such as “Temperature 20 degrees”.
The all-new Mondeo’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning system has been fine-tuned for quieter operation. The system also helps optimise interior comfort with automatic climate control able to maintain less than one degree variation even in extreme climates, and adaptive fans that maintain a constant airflow as vehicle speed changes. Rear cabin occupants benefit from dedicated air-vents.
In addition, all-new Mondeo features an air-quality sensor that automatically switches on air recirculation when pollution is detected, and a humidity sensor that enables pre-emptive measures against flash-fogging of window interiors. Cooling from 55 degrees C to 18 degrees C in 15 minutes is best-in-class.
New chassis for improved refinement
The first model for Europe to be built on Ford’s new global CD-segment platform, the all-new Mondeo will debut Ford’s new integral link rear suspension configuration for improved refinement alongside more dynamic performance.
The new suspension design delivers the compliance required for greater comfort, while retaining lateral stiffness for enhanced steering and handling. It also allows the wheel to move rearwards on impact with bumps. This delivers improved impact absorption for a smoother ride and reduced noise levels. Self-levelling rear suspension is offered for the wagon model, maintaining optimal ride height for comfort and handling regardless of load.
Integral link rear suspension contributes to road noise reductions of around 3 decibels in the rear and 2 decibels in the front, supported by additional sound deadening material within the underbody shields, wheel arch liners and front and rear doors to block tyre noise. The number of holes within the all-new Mondeo body shell also has been reduced to minimise noise transfer.
Wind noise is reduced to levels previously only experienced in the premium segment through optimised window pillar and door mirror shape, enhanced door and window seals, and improved interior noise absorption. A wind noise level of 21.1 sone – a metric for loudness – is an 8 per cent improvement over the previous generation Mondeo. The thickness of the rear window glass is increased by 0.4 millimetres, helping reduce passing traffic noise for rear seat passengers.
More seals have been added between the bonnet and front wings, and the engine bay sound insulation changed from fibreglass to foam, contributing to a reduction of between 1.5 and 2 decibels for powertrain noise transmitted to the cabin.
Further fine tuning of handling and ride comfort is delivered with active systems including Torque Vectoring Control, Pull-Drift Compensation, Active Nibble Compensation, and Torque Steer Compensation.
The introduction of Electric Power Assisted Steering to Mondeo for the first time also enables steering weight to adapt and match the “comfort,” “normal” and “sport” chassis settings of Ford’s Continuous Control Damping. Drivers will notice a greater difference between the chassis characteristics delivered by the three settings.
Quality and convenience
Inside, Mondeo drivers are greeted by an optional 10-inch digital-analogue instrument cluster. The customisable colour display delivers animated notifications for features such as Lane Keeping Alert. A sleek, wrap-around centre console design delivers a sporty, cockpit-like feel, and the centre console features a symmetrical design that is accessible to both the driver and the front seat passenger – as is the large, open flow-through storage bin in front of the gear selector.
A soft-touch instrument panel and flock-lined central front storage area and glovebox are representative of the high material quality and craftsmanship throughout. Chrome surrounds and accents also are delivered for the air-vents and soft touch controls. Smart-design front seats feature a thinner seat back – enabling rear seat passengers to enjoy additional legroom without sacrificing comfort for driver and front passenger. Rear cabin occupants benefit from the light airy feel offered by an optional full-length panoramic glass roof in the Mondeo wagon. Mondeo also will enhance comfort and convenience for drivers with features including first-in-class power-adjustable, memory-equipped steering column, as well as power tailgate and heated steering wheel.
Award-winning EcoBoost technology
The all-new Mondeo will be the first car in its segment equipped with a 1.0-litre petrol engine. Ford’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine was named International Engine of the Year in 2014 for an unprecedented third time in a row, and will join the Mondeo engine line-up in early 2015 with 125 PS and CO2 emissions of 119 g/km.
The 1.0-litre EcoBoost delivers the power of a larger engine with core EcoBoost technologies including high-pressure direct fuel injection and Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing. A low inertia turbocharger spins at up to 248,000 rpm, more than 4,000 times per second and almost twice the maximum rpm of the turbochargers powering 2014 F1 race car engines.
Efficiency is enhanced with a split cooling system that features separate circuits for the aluminium head and iron block, low friction coating for engine internals, a cambelt-in-oil design, and an ECU-controlled variable displacement oil pump that tailors lubrication to demand and optimises oil pressure.
Featuring the same engine hardware as proven in the Ford Fiesta, Focus, B-MAX, EcoSport, C-MAX and Grand C-MAX, Tourneo Connect, Tourneo Courier, Transit Connect and Transit Courier, the 1.0-litre EcoBoost fuelling and ignition calibration and gear ratios have been revised to deliver optimised performance for the Mondeo.
A small cylinder bore and long stroke contribute to peak torque of 170 Nm available from 1,300 rpm enabling the engine to comfortably deliver in a Mondeo-sized vehicle. Combined with a six-speed manual transmission the 1.0-litre EcoBoost offers 5.1 l/100 km (55.4 mpg) fuel efficiency.
All-new Mondeo will also offer Ford’s new 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol engine with a choice of six-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox. The engine is equipped with the integrated exhaust manifold technology first introduced with Ford’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost. This improves efficiency by helping the engine reach optimal temperatures faster, and also delivers torque more rapidly by minimising the distance exhaust gasses travel between the cylinders and turbocharger.
A new aluminium engine block features, and a water-cooled intake charge cooler delivers a more efficient feed of air into the engine, helping the 1.5-litre EcoBoost deliver 134 g/km CO2 – an 11 per cent reduction compared with the previous 1.6-litre EcoBoost petrol engine – and 5.8 l/100 km (48.7 mpg) fuel efficiency, while continuing to deliver 160 PS.
“The new 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol engine offers customers the very latest EcoBoost engine technologies in a smarter and more efficient package,” Bakaj said. “More economical, smoother-running and free-revving, this new EcoBoost engine delivers an even more compelling option for drivers who love petrol performance and want low running costs.”
Mondeo will continue to be available with Ford’s 2.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, offering 203 PS or 240 PS and a six-speed automatic transmission. Auto-Start-Stop is introduced to the powertrain for the first time – delivering a complete Mondeo engine line-up equipped with the fuel saving technology and reducing 2.0-litre EcoBoost CO2 emissions by 6 per cent.
Ford Inflatable Rear Seatbelt to Make European Debut on All-New Mondeo; Harnesses Seatbelt and Airbag Attributes
Ford Motor Company’s groundbreaking Inflatable Rear Seatbelt – which combines attributes of an airbag and a conventional seatbelt – will make its European debut on the all-new Mondeo later this year.
Ford’s Inflatable Rear Seatbelt is designed to reduce head, neck and chest injuries for rear-seat passengers, often children and older passengers who can be more vulnerable to such injuries. In the event of an accident, the belt rapidly expands to disperse crash forces across a body area five times greater than that achieved by a conventional seatbelt. The inflatable belts operate like conventional seatbelts in everyday use and, in Ford’s research, more than 90 per cent of those who tested the inflatable seatbelts found them to be similar to or more comfortable than a conventional belt because they feel padded and softer.
The technology was first offered on the 2011 Ford Explorer in the U.S. and proved immediately popular, with 40 per cent of buyers choosing the option. As with an airbag, Ford’s Inflatable Rear Seatbelt is activated when crash sensors detect an accident. This forces compressed gas out of a cylinder housed below the rear seat, through the buckle and into the belt. The Inflatable Rear Seatbelt is fully deployed in less than 40 milliseconds.
