Previewing A New Generation Of Ford Galaxy

Ford is giving visitors to the Frankfurt Motor Show a glimpse into the future for its largest people carrier, the Ford Galaxy.

An entirely new Ford Galaxy is on track for launch in the middle of 2006, and its design direction is being previewed exclusively at the Show this September. True to its function and elegant in execution, the Galaxy showcar is designed to emphasise comfort and luxury while providing spacious accommodation for up to seven people.

The new model will also blend Ford’s well-renowned characteristics of supreme driving quality with high levels of interior sophistication, innovative stowage solutions and the very latest technology.

The new generation Ford Galaxy will be the first full-size people carrier developed entirely using in-house Ford of Europe expertise. Developed by Ford's European Product Development team and due to be built at Ford's Genk plant in Belgium, this vehicle will be a key product for Ford of Europe.

It builds on the success of the current joint-venture model, and in particular the strengths that have made the Ford Galaxy such as success.

Galaxy sits at the top of Ford's European model range, alongside the recently enhanced Ford Mondeo and soon to be joined by the production version of the Ford SAV Concept.

The SAV Concept was seen at the 2005 Geneva Motor Show in March, and in June was confirmed as the basis for an additional new Ford of Europe carline, also to be launched in 2006.

"As we look to introduce a new generation of Ford Galaxy, we have in mind a very specific customer. That is someone who may already own a Ford Galaxy and knows what they want from this type of vehicle," said Martin Smith, Executive Design Director, Ford of Europe. "Our goal with a new Galaxy will be to offer a true seven seat vehicle that provides the product values this core customer group desires. As you can see from this preview model, all the elements are coming into place, from the refined exterior design to an unprecedented level of interior room and functionality. We think this vehicle will excel in this highly competitive segment."

The preview model shows how a new full-size people mover can continue to build the "travel first class" mantle currently expressed by Ford Galaxy. Ford designers are creating a vehicle that emphasizes visually these key values of luxury, space and flexibility.