Ford's Commitment to Allergy-Friendly Vehicles

Strategic Insights -

As spring arrives, millions of Europeans will be dealing with the challenges of allergies, with approximately 80 million people affected by some form of allergy across the continent. Ford, recognizing the issue, has taken significant steps to make its vehicles safer for those with allergies. The company's new five-seat C-MAX and seven-seat Grand C-MAX have been granted the "Allergy Tested Interior" Seal of Approval by TUV Rheinland, a renowned testing authority. This achievement solidifies Ford's position as the only manufacturer with vehicles certified by TUV and also awarded the Quality Certificate by the European Centre for Allergy Research Foundation.

Key Takeaways:

  • Ford has developed a comprehensive approach to allergy-friendly vehicles, with its new C-MAX and Grand C-MAX models receiving the "Allergy Tested Interior" Seal of Approval from TUV Rheinland.
  • The company is the only manufacturer with vehicles independently verified and certificated as allergy-tested by TUV, with nearly 4.5 million Ford cars on the road today certified by TUV.
  • Ford tests over 100 materials and components for allergy issues and dermatologically tests components that come into direct and prolonged skin contact, such as the steering wheel and seat covers.
  • The company avoids or minimizes the use of materials like latex, chrome, and nickel, which can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals.
  • Ford's Global Materials Management system assists in communicating materials requirements to suppliers and tracking the materials used in the parts they manufacture.
  • The company has implemented internal requirements to increase the use of sustainable materials in its products, including recycled, renewable, and lightweight materials.

Statistics:

  • Approximately 80 million people across Europe suffer from some form of allergy.
  • Ford's new C-MAX and Grand C-MAX have been granted the "Allergy Tested Interior" Seal of Approval by TUV Rheinland.
  • Nearly 4.5 million Ford cars on the road today have been certified by TUV.
  • Ford tests over 100 materials and components for allergy issues.
  • The company has a comprehensive set of processes and system tools called Global Materials Management.
  • Ford has been avoiding or minimizing the use of materials like latex, chrome, and nickel for over 20 years.

Sources:

  • Ford Motor (2023) - Press Release: "Ford's vehicle development teams make its cars allergy friendly"
  • TUV Rheinland - "TUV Seal of Approval"
  • European Centre for Allergy Research Foundation - "Quality Certificate"