The Ford Verve Concept, a bold and colourful concept car which was revealed at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, gives the first hints of Ford’s future small-car design vision. Incorporating Ford’s 'kinetic Design' philosophy inside and out, the Ford Verve Concept is daring and modern.
Dynamic possibilities
The Ford Verve Concept is the first glimpse at the design direction for an all-new small Ford. The Ford Verve Concept is bold, even radical. It demonstrates the dynamic possibilities for expressing Ford’s 'kinetic Design' philosophy in a small car. Both chic and modern, the Ford Verve Concept was designed with a fashion aware, sophisticated market in mind.
A stylish design direction for the small car market
John Fleming, President and CEO of Ford of Europe said: “Our Design team took an unrestrained approach to how our future small cars could look, and this eye-catching concept was one of the results. If we get the reaction we expect… this will make the next generation of small cars from Ford very compelling indeed.”
Fashion inspired
The Ford Verve Concept has been finished in rich colours and distinctive materials inspired by the world of fashion and cosmetics. The deep magenta red used on the concept car is encapsulated in a tinted clearcoat for an even deeper glow, making a daring declaration of individualism and exclusivity.
A bold expression
Martin Smith, Executive Director of Design for Ford of Europe uses expressions like "precision sculpted", "agile muscularity" and "toned athleticism" to describe the car’s body shape, which has an elegant, coupé-like feel of sophistication.
Style and energy in motion
The concept's face is bold and sporty, yet friendly and engaging. The front of the vehicle is dominated by a large, lower grille. The bonnet shape is sculpted dynamically – toned and athletic but not overtly muscular. The LED headlamps inspired by Mondeo and the panoramic glass roof all work together to promote a sense of movement.
From the side view, the concept has the purposeful look of energy in motion. The profile is emphasised by the pillarless side window shape.
Exploring the inner kinetic
The Ford Verve Concept is as dramatic on the inside as its exterior. From its boldly shaped surfaces and courageous use of rich colours and irresistible materials, the car has a playful sense of sophistication and fashion. “This is a quantum leap in bringing 'kinetic Design' into interior design,” said Niko Vidakovic, Chief Interior Designer, Ford of Europe. “This type of visual innovation, linking the form language of the interior so strongly with the exterior, is something we believe no other company is doing.”
New aesthetic inspired by mobile phones
The Ford Verve Concept was designed for the generation that grew up with mobile phones. Emphasis has been placed on functionality and the optimal positioning of controls within the car. Every button and switch was crafted with the kind of minute attention to detail that characterises good mobile phone designs. "A new generation of buyers raised with mobile electronic devices would feel right at home in this new automotive interior, one that exceeds the standards typical in the small-car segment," said Vidakovic.
Harmonious colours
From the instrument panel to the seats, the Ford Verve Concept is trimmed elegantly in a harmonious blend of magentas. Materials were inspired by the exclusive fabrics and leathers of haute couture, according to Ruth Pauli, Chief Designer, Colours and Trims, Ford of Europe. “Expressive colours in the right harmonies and contrasts. Soft yet intense. Good materials like glove-leather that’s beautiful to touch. These details are helping us bring a feeling of premiumness into the volume small car world.”
