BRENTWOOD, Essex, 3 March, 2008 – Ford 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 research organisation awarded its sought-after Seal of Quality to six Ford models for their allergy-friendly interiors - the Ka, Focus, C-MAX, Mondeo,
S-MAX and Galaxy.
"Ford is the first automobile manufacturer to receive our Seal of Quality," confirmed ECARF chair Prof Torsten Zuberbier.
ECARF reviewed tests from the TÜV Rheinland Group, an independent, authoritative 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, "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 TÜV and recognised 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 's European governmental and environmental affairs vice president.
"It is our responsibility to offer customers products that address the growing concerns about allergies. We aim to get as many as possible of our existing - and future - models certified to the TÜV standard."