It’s called the Start Concept, and it made its debut at the Beijing Motor Show last week. Designed by Ford’s California-based styling studios, it boasts a striking body made from lightweight composite materials, and matches its good looks with a hi-tech 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine that drives the front wheels through a five-speed manual gearbox.
Inside, cabin functions can be controlled by an iPhone – or any other smartphone. Add a fun driving experience, and the Start looks like the ideal city transport to take on the MINI and Fiat 500.
However, if you believe that this is the next-generation Ka, think again. Ford bosses are keen to point out that despite the short overhangs and curvy shape, this isn’t a new Ka. Instead, this concept points the way to how a future global model will look. And rather than Europe, the company says it has been designed for use in ever-expanding ‘mega cities’ – hence its debut in Beijing.
The big news for British drivers is the Start’s engine. It’s the latest example of Ford’s EcoBoost system, and is a direct-injection turbo powerplant that’s been jointly developed with PSA Peugeot-Citroen. Although power figures haven’t been revealed, Ford says it offers the same performance as a normally aspirated 1.6-litre petrol engine – so expect up to 110bhp and 0-60mph in 10 seconds, but with emissions below 100g/km.
However, the cabin is hi-tech, too. Owners can plug in their smartphones, and thanks to the firm’s MyFord Mobile Concept, the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning settings can be set via voice control. It also imports all phone contacts and navigation tools, and the icons are displayed on a large central screen.
