A New Global Strategy SUV

A concept car previewing the next generation of the Ford "Edge" made its world premiere at the LA Auto Show. While it's not familiar in Japan as it's a model exclusive to North America (and some other regions), its sales performance up to October this year exceeded that of its strong rivals by over 32 percent, earning it the honor of "America's Best-Selling Utility Vehicle" for three consecutive years.



The Ford "Edge Concept," a preview of the next Ford Edge, features a new, evolved front design while retaining the character of the current model. Its sculpted, high-quality exterior design is particularly striking, even more so than the current model. The newly adopted LED headlights emphasize integration with the front grille, further refining its sleek, sporty form.



In addition to Ford's signature intelligent driver assistance technologies, semi-autonomous capabilities are also integrated. The Ford Edge Concept includes an advanced engine control system and collision avoidance technology, familiar from the "Focus," as well as the astonishing new "Active Park Assist" feature, which allows the Ford Edge Concept to park itself with just a button press or remote operation from outside the vehicle.

The engine is the next-generation EcoBoost. It incorporates a start-stop system and active grille shutters effective in reducing air resistance, along with a unique air curtain technology that uses airflow from the front of the vehicle to improve brake cooling performance and optimize downforce, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing environmental performance, including fuel efficiency.



The interior offers many highlights, including a hand-stitched leather instrument panel, the "MyFord Touch" 10-inch touchscreen display, a center stack with mechanical opening capabilities, and a cohesive new design aesthetic across the distinctive steering wheel, shifter, door release levers, and air vents. It can be said that a unique and high-quality interior has been crafted through craftsmanship.



However, the excellent design and finish, along with advanced driver assistance technologies, are not the only highlights of the next Ford Edge. The next generation of this vehicle, which has recorded strong sales as a North American exclusive, is actually being developed as a global strategic model for mid-size SUVs.

The next Ford Edge, scheduled for release as a 2015 model, will transition to production largely in the form of the LA Auto Show preview model, with sales planned not only in North America but also in several global markets, including Europe. In September, Ford announced new investments in its Oakville production plant in Canada. It is anticipated that the next Ford Edge will be produced here and delivered worldwide as a new global model.



If this is true,Ford FocusandFord "Kuga"it signals that the "One Ford" strategy has entered a new phase. While the current Ford Edge was not sold in Japan (its sister model, the Lincoln MKX, was introduced), its urban and stylish appeal makes expectations high for its future introduction in Japan.



Ford has officially announced the formal decision to include the Chinese market as a sales destination following North America, butFord "Fiesta"we strongly hope for the official introduction of this new model to Japan, following the latest global model.