Ford Alfresco: Ford of Britain at 100

BRENTWOOD, Essex, 6 April 2011 – To celebrate the centenary of Ford of Britain in 2011 the company is exploring its photo archive to reveal rarely seen images.

Ford's unique relationship with Britain and its society will be illustrated each week by specially selected pictures.

The radical 1950s designs of the Ford Consul, Zephyr and Zodiac demanded equally radical presentation methods, as this week's image shows.

Ford executives were invited to abandon the office for fresh air and a chance to see the Mark ll versions of Ford's popular family cars. Launched in 1956 and marketed as the 'Three Graces', the Mark ll Consul, Zephyr and Zodiac marked a further step in British motoring away from post-war austerity towards glamour and modernity.

In the 21st century Ford continues to break new ground in vehicle design. The Ford B-Max concept vehicle combines kinetic styling with innovative engineering to offer style and practicality. Twin sliding doors and the removal of traditional B-pillars allow unprecedented levels of convenience and flexibility, whilst a state-of-the-art three-cylinder, 1.0-litre, Ford EcoBoost engine ensures ultra-low emissions and reduced fuel consumption.