European 'First' As Foundation Recognises Ford of Europe's Allergy-Friendly Vehicles

COLOGNE, February 29, 2008 - Ford of Europe has become the first vehicle manufacturer to receive the European Centre for Allergy Research Foundation's (ECARF) Seal of Quality. The award is given to products that are suitable for allergy sufferers.

The Berlin-based research organisation awarded its sought-after Seal of Quality to six Ford models for their allergy-friendly interiors - the Ford Ka, Ford Focus (including the Coupé-Cabriolet), Ford C-MAX, Ford Mondeo, Ford S-MAX and Ford Galaxy.

"Ford is the first automobile manufacturer to receive our Seal of Quality," confirmed the chair of ECARF, Professor Torsten Zuberbier.

ECARF reviewed and recognized the results of tests conducted by the TÜV Rheinland Group, an independent, authoritative German testing and assessment organisation that controls and certifies quality standards for industrial and consumer products.

In extensive stringent and scientifically-variable testing, the TÜV has certified that the interior materials used in the six Ford models reduce allergy risk to the lowest possible level. More than 100 materials and components were tested for harmful substances and allergy-causing potential. In addition, all components likely to have direct and prolonged skin contact such as the steering wheel and seat covers, floor mats and seat belts were dermatologically tested.

According to ECARF, "the results showed that the materials used greatly reduce the risk of allergic reaction."

Additionally, the vehicles are equipped with a high-performance pollen filter, which was also tested by the TÜV and recognized by ECARF. The filter effectively prevents pollen – a particular concern for allergy sufferers – from entering the vehicle’s interior.

"We are very proud that the first vehicles to gain TÜV and now also the ECARF approval, carry the Ford blue oval. We consider it confirmation from highly-respected organisations of the high quality standards of our vehicles," said Dr Wolfgang Schneider, Ford of Europe's vice president, governmental and environmental affairs.

"We regard it as our responsibility to offer our customers products that address the growing concerns about allergies. That's why we aim to get as many as possible of our existing - and future - models certified to the TÜV standard," he added.

Source: Ford Motor Company

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