FORD supports THATCHAM safety drive

BRENTWOOD, Essex.– Ford is supporting Thatcham and their partners in highlighting the safety benefits of Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

At the recent “Driving for Better Business” event at the Rockingham Circuit in Northamptonshire, Thatcham used a Ford S-MAX and a new Ford Mondeo to launch the “Choose ESC” campaign.

Electronic Stability Control technology has proved highly effective in preventing skidding. ESC is also known under a series of other names such as Electronic Stability Programme, Vehicle Dynamic Control and Vehicle Stability Assist.

The event at Rockingham used the Ford S-MAX and Ford Mondeo to demonstrate how ESC and anti-lock braking aid driver control in emergency situations. Ford has standardised ESC on all new Ford Mondeo models as well as on the Ford S-MAX and Ford Galaxy ranges. It is also standard across the new Ford Transit range. In addition to this Ford continues to offer ESC as an option on most of its model range.

Thatcham has published their ESC fitment ratings for a second year, showing that some manufacturers are increasing the availability of standard fit ESC systems. EuroNCAP is also supporting the “Choose ESC” campaign and has launched a new ESC fitment guide for cars across Europe similar to the Thatcham ratings.

Matthew Avery, of Thatcham, said: “Thatcham is delighted that the new Ford Mondeo, S-MAX and Galaxy ranges have ESC as standard. Ford is raising the bar for standard ESC fitment.”

Stuart Southgate, Director Automotive Safety Office - Ford of Europe said: “ESC can play an important role in the safety of passenger cars and commercial vehicles and we are increasing the availability of ESC across the Ford range. We are pleased to support the ’ChooseESC’ campaign and events such as ’Driving for Better Business’ to help realise the full benefit of active safety features such as ESC.”