2005 Ford SYNus Concept

Taking Urban Living to a New Level "Say what?! They cant be serious," were just a few words uttered during Fords introduction of the extremely odd, albeit quite innovative new SYNus concept SUV at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on Sunday, January 9th. Truth be told, Ford didnt expect would-be buyers to jump all over it anyways. But the new concept should pique the interest of auto show passersby, and in so doing heighten peoples awareness about what new technologies Ford is busy at work developing for the urban environment. Why Unlike most concepts at the North American International Auto Show, Ford doesnt expect would-be buyers to jump all over its SYNus concept. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, American Auto Press) urban? When cars were just being developed people were moving from the farm to the city, and then when those cars wore big fins and loads of chrome it was an exodus from the city to the suburbs. And what about now? Urban real estate, or anything close J Mays, Fords head of design who introduced the crossover SUV, showed those attending how the automaker plans to use the SYNus for heightening peoples awareness about what new technologies Ford is busy at work developing for the urban environment. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, American Auto Press) to town, is hot property in todays world, and Ford wants to show those buying into the inner city that it is serious about solving the kinds of problems commonly experienced by urban dwellers. What kinds of problems? First and foremost is the lack of parking, As its easy to see, Ford found inspiration for the new concepts design from "bank vaults and armored cars". (Photo: Ford Motor Company) and when a spot can be found its a "small car only" space more often than not. The SYNus is not only compact, but based on Ford of Europes B-segment Fiesta. That puts it into the size spectrum of Toyotas Echo and Hyundais Accent, and yes the same class as Scions xB - the only car that makes the SYNus appear aerodynamic. Seriously though, while diminutive in size, the SYNus is tough enough to stand up to pretty well anything an urban guerilla can throw at it.

Parking the SYNus in secure mode automatically deploys protective shutters that clamp down over the windshield and side glass. (Photo: Ford Motor Company)

Parking the SYNus in secure mode automatically deploys protective shutters that clamp down over the windshield and side glass - yes that narrow strip that looks more like a slot for poking through automatic weapons is actually for occupants to see out of, or at least

>Despite its tough as nails exterior looks, the inside of the SYNus is actually quite luxuriously appointed. (Photo: Ford Motor Company)

Dont try to open one, however, as these are fixed in place and, of course, bulletproof - and just why are people moving back into the city? Sound impenetrable? The rear hatch doesnt offer a window at all, so valuables that otherwise might get stolen through an SUVs rear window are safe and sound in the SYNus.

Of course, property crime, especially from vehicles, is no joking matter, especially in city cores where drug trafficking and resultant addiction is most prolific and the necessity of feeding the habit at any cost very real.

More style than substance, anyone wanting

The SYNus has been designed to be as user-friendly as possible. (Photo: Ford Motor Company)

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