Ford previews next WRC

04/11/04: by Trish Whelan — Ford of Europe has shown what the new generation Ford Focus RS WRC could look like, in a joint project between British-based company M-Sport and Ford Team RS, has produced this vision of an all-new Focus rally car.

The Focus 2006 RS WRC concept shares design cues with the existing Focus RS WRC that will be the company's challenger in the 2005 championship. The standard road car's prominent wheelarches are matched to a full width front spoiler and bonnet air vents. A roof mounted air scoop and a characteristic rear spoiler contribute to the functional WRC-inspired appearance.

The unveiling of the Focus 2006 WRC concept signals the start of a 14-month programme that will see the fully developed rally car compete in the opening round of the 2006 season. It is also the start of a four-year programme to develop the new Ford Focus into a challenger for WRC success. Initially, this programme will run alongside Ford's existing WRC commitments throughout the 2005 season.