The Ford B-Max is a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) produced by Ford Motor Company. It was first introduced in 2012 and continued production until 2017. The car was recognized for its innovative design, particularly the door system, which included conventionally hinged front doors and sliding rear doors, offering easy and comfortable access to the interior.
The B-Max was based on the Ford Fiesta platform, making it compact but benefiting from practical interior design due to the flexible seating arrangement and good cabin space. It was equipped with multiple petrol and diesel engines and also featured some modern technologies of that time, such as the Ford SYNC system and voice control.
Despite its innovations and practical design, the car did not achieve significant market success compared to its competitors, leading to the cessation of its production after a few years.
Here is a look at some key events in its history:
1. **Announcement and Introduction (2011-2012):** The concept version of the Ford B-Max was first revealed at the Geneva Motor Show in 2011. A year later, in 2012, the production version was introduced at Geneva once again, gaining attention with its unique design and sliding door system.
2. **Production and Launch (2012):** Ford began production of the B-Max at its factory in Craiova, Romania, in mid-2012. The car had an official launch in European markets within the same year and started selling in select markets.
3. **Technologies and Features (2012-2015):** The vehicle was offered with several engine options, including advanced EcoBoost petrol engines and diesel engines. It was also equipped with a range of modern technologies at the time, such as the Ford SYNC entertainment system and voice control system.
4. **Limited Success (2013-2016):** Despite its practical design and innovative features, the B-Max was unable to achieve strong sales compared to competitors in the same category. It faced strong competition from other MPVs offering similar features at comparable prices.
5. **End of Production (2017):** Due to relatively low demand, Ford decided to discontinue the B-Max in 2017. This decision was part of Ford’s broader strategy to focus on more popular and cost-efficient models.
The Ford B-Max was offered in multiple trims to meet various customer needs, and these typically included:
1. **Base/Studio Trim:** This trim included only the basics, with a greater focus on value for money. It included essentials like a basic audio system, front electric windows, and rear sliding doors.
2. **Titanium Trim:** Considered one of the higher-end trims in the B-Max lineup, this trim offered additional features such as automatic air conditioning, ambient interior lighting, speed control system, and upgrades in the quality of interior materials.
3. **Zetec Trim:** This trim provided a good balance between price and features. It included additional equipment like alloy wheels, electric heated mirrors, and an improved sound system, along with some aesthetic and practical enhancements.
4. **Grand Trim:** Available as a simple premium option, focusing on added aesthetic touches and luxury features.
Note that available trims could vary by market and time period, and that some features within trims might differ based on options selected by the buyer, such as integrated navigation or additional safety systems.
The most famous Ford models