w w w . o a kv ill eb ea ve r.c o m O A KV IL LE B EA V ER Fr id ay , Ja nu ar y 14 , 2 01 1 2 0 Ford increases vehicle stability in 2012 Focus Metroland Media Carguide Magazine The all-new 2012 Ford Focus is the first beneficiary of a new class-exclusive Ford technology that employs downhill skiing and snowboarding moves to increase vehicle stability in turns. Engineered to increase novice driver confidence by adding a finer sense of control in curves, the next-generation Focus will please enthusiast drivers as well with the addition of a vehicle sta- bility control system previously reserved for premium sports cars. Just as a downhill skier or board rider shifts weight to their outside edge in transition from schuss to edge adding balance and stability to carve through a turn torque vectoring control provides slight braking force to the wheel and the tire that is sub- ject to potential slippage to help the driver and vehicle gracefully negotiate the curve. The slight braking pressure applied to just one driven wheel is imperceptible to the driver. The behind-the-wheel experi- ence is an improved sense of sta- bility and control throughout the curve. This increased vehicle sta- bility in cornering situations is sure to please enthusiast drivers yet serves as a confidence builder for novice drivers as well. Torque vectoring control uses the Focus braking system to imi- tate the effect of limited-slip dif- ferential, constantly balancing the distribution of engine output between the driven front wheels to suit driving conditions and road surface. When accelerating through a tight corner, the system applies an imperceptible degree of brak- ing to the inside front wheel, so that more engine torque goes to the outside wheel, providing additional traction, better grip and improved vehicle handling. The system is designed to delight experienced and enthusi- astic drivers but also to provide less- experienced drivers with confidence and a better sense of vehicle control, especially in diffi- cult driving conditions. 2012 Ford Focus goes on sale in early 2011