Sunday, April 23, 2006

Ford Hybrid Concept Car: the Reflex

Ford's Reflex concept is a small sports car that incorporates a number of interesting features, including a diesel/electric hybrid system that captures power from solar panels on the car, as well as an interior camera — dubbed "baby cam" — that streams live video of the rear seats to the driver. Smaller than the Nissan 350Z, the Reflex's front fascia features Ford's new three-bar grille, which in this application is made of aluminum and has a matte finish. Taking a cue from high-end, exotic sports cars, the Reflex has swing-wing doors that are hinged in back. Polished-alloy wheels measure 20 inches in diameter, and the roof of the car is fitted with solar-powered fans that circulate air when the car is parked. Inside, the Reflex has two front bucket seats and a small backseat roomy enough for two children or an adult. Mesh material covers the seats, and the rear seat belts have integrated inflatable bags in the shoulder strap that deploy during a collision to disperse crash forces across the chest. For the littlest of kids, a rear-facing child safety seat is included.

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